Coverings, the industry’s showcase for tile and natural stone, is headed for Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center April 17-20. Show organizers say the venue shift will give the meeting added significance.

“It’s clear that Coverings 2007 is going to be historic,” said Tamara Christian, show director and president of National Trade Productions which manages the show. “What we’re hearing from so many of the exhibitors is that no matter where Coverings is held next year, they want ‘in,’ because nothing compares; it’s the ultimate for tile and stone.”

She added that the educational and instructional programming at the show consistently ranks as one of its primary attractions. As in past years, there will be separate seminar tracks to address a variety of interests: distribution and retail; architecture and design; building and remodeling; fabrication and installation. The increasing importance of green building and sustainability is being addressed this year, with an entire track dedicated to the topic. CEU credits from AIA, ASID, IIDA and NKBA are available.

Online registration and a preview of Coverings 2007 appears on its web site (www.coverings.com), as well as a new “flash” component that can be emailed.