According to Bart Bettiga, executive director of the National Tile Contractors Association, there is a real need for clear information on the products and installation trends shaping the tile and stone industry. With the help of BNP Media’s Clear Seas Research division, he put together a survey aimed at finding out more about the tile and stone business. His goal: to learn what brands are selling, what segments are booming and what may need fine-tuning. Additionally, he wants to get snapshots of the contracting businesses running today.

            The survey, which was mailed out to 7,500 NTCA members and TILE Magazine subscribers, will be used in two ways, notes Bettiga. Notably, it will help the NTCA learn more about its members and help the organization tailor its programs and services to match the membership’s needs. Additionally, it will give manufacturers vital information on the hottest brands and current trends.  

            “I don’t think there is any other survey like this in the tile and stone industry,” says Bettiga. “We’re going to use this survey to become a stronger association, and we’re also going to use it to provide good information to manufacturers, so they can continue to create products that are needed in this market.”

            The idea for the survey was born out of the need for solid information on the contracting side of the industry, says Bettiga. “We get calls from manufacturers all the time asking for industry information. With this survey, we’ll finally be able to answer their questions.”

            The 4-page surveys, which were mailed out three weeks ago, are due no later than April 20. Once the final results are tabulated, a full report will be available for $8,500. Custom packages and analysis will also be available upon request. For more information, e-mail Kelley Trost at trostk@clearseasresearch.com.