Show organizers of Surfaces 2008 say this year’s slate of educational conferences are positioned to be the most comprehensive yet. Along with 48 conference sessions targeted to five industry tracks, organizers will also offer six hour-long “mini-sessions” for the first time during the show. These sessions are aimed at show goers who want a quick rundown of some of the hottest topics in the industry, including design trends, color stories and branding, show organizers say.

Carol Wilkins, Surfaces’ conference manager, said this year’s conferences are geared toward helping show goers build and maintain their businesses in a slow economic climate. “The Surfaces 2008 education program will hit on the timeliest of topics that offer solutions to help floor covering professionals ride the wave of a slower moving economy,” she noted.

Some of BNP Media’s own experts will offer their tips and expert advice during the conference program. They include “Proper Shower Systems” with Dave Gobis (who will also take part in a “Pre-Installation Forum” with colleagues including Mickey Moore); “How To Survive & Thrive During a Slowing Economy” and “Pow! Zap! Sell Like a Superhero!” with Sam Allman; “Banishing Discounts Forever” with Warren Tyler; “Have You Considered the Commercial Market Possibilities?” with Dave Stafford; and “Common Causes of Post-Installation Failures” with Jon Namba, Karen Mason andFCIandTILE Magazine’sJohn Moore moderating.

Surfaces is set for Jan. 30-Feb. 1 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas. For more information, visit www.Surfaces.com or call (972) 536-6400.