This morning saw the first installment of Vision 2001, the global forum for ceramic tile and natural stone. Twenty-seven educational sessions were presented in two 50-minute program blocks, giving early risers (the first session beginning at 8 a.m.) an incredibly diverse selection of information choices.

Coverings is truly an international exhibition; interpreters can be found at many of the conferences and seminars.


Janet Carter gives her own unique insights into showroom management and selling.
NEW ORLEANS, May 21 – This morning saw the first installment of Vision 2001, the global forum for ceramic tile and natural stone. Twenty-seven educational sessions were presented in two 50-minute program blocks, giving early risers (the first beginning at 8 a.m.) an incredibly diverse selection of information choices.

The CTEF's Dave Gobis makes a point during the "Developing Your Tile Contracting Business" seminar.
Carter Lynn-Principal Janet Carter presented her “Good Showroom Management and Selling, Parts One and Two” to a standing-room only crowd, offering her take on the techniques and approaches to showrooms that can make a difference in both the first-impression aesthetic and the financial bottom line.

The audience reaped the bounty of TCA Executive Director Bob Daniels's experience.
Tom Shay, the president of Profits+Plus Seminars, divulged his secrets to “Uncovering Hidden Profits” to another packed house, while the “Care and Maintenance of Tile and Natural Stone” session had attendees literally spilling out into the hallway, standing on tip toe and craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the Aqua Mix team of Rod Sigman and Bill Tran as they offered up the benefits of their expertise.

The contractor and retailer segments of the business were treated to insights from some of the most highly regarded figures in the industry. The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation’s Dave Gobis explored the keys to “Developing Your Tile Contracting Business,” while the Tile Council of America’s Executive Director, Bob Daniels, explained “What Every Retail Floor Covering Store Should Know About Ceramic Tile.”

Diana Chiodi addresses the audience as Dave Hamilton looks on at the Mapei press conference.
Tomorrow will see a whole new array of presentations, workshops and seminars. Check back for another sampling of the educational opportunities featured at Coverings.