Elevating the perception of the skilled trades is a challenge, but it starts with each of you, according to John Steier, owner Steier Flooring and CFI #14097. Here, he shares his journey from a helper to becoming a certified professional through Certified Flooring Installers.
TISE 2025, North America's largest flooring, stone, and tile show, returns to Las Vegas's Mandalay Bay Convention Center January 28-30. The event features 700+ exhibitors across 400,000+ square feet, showcasing latest innovations, live demonstrations, and prestigious installation competitions including the National Installer of the Year Competition.
DeGraaf Interiors recently opened a new flagship location in Ada, Michigan, transforming a vacant building into a state-of-the-art design center. The 7,500-sq.-ft. showroom features over 40 installed flooring products, dedicated designer spaces, and luxury amenities, reflecting the company's commitment to creating an elevated shopping experience.
In a spectacular display of industry solidarity and philanthropy, the Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF) hosted its annual gala at New York's historic Gotham Hall.
Starnet President and CEO Mark Bischoff unveils how commercial flooring contractors can utilize Sourcewell, a cooperative procurement solution that enables government public entities to purchase goods at competitive prices, to unlock new business demand.
Learn how the adoption of a team selling structure and data models can increase sales, profits, hasten business expansion and ensure higher quality among professional interior contractors.
The flooring industry faces significant challenges in Fall 2024 due to multiple supply chain disruptions. Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton devastated the Southeast, while a dockworkers' strike briefly halted East and Gulf Coast ports. Although the strike was suspended, experts warn of potential long-term effects and urge flooring businesses to prepare for future crises by diversifying sources and managing inventory strategically.
As the Federal Reserve's rate cut impacts the flooring sector, industry veterans demonstrate adaptability. Dan Frierson's 60-year journey at The Dixie Group showcases innovative leadership, while Starnet's long-standing members highlight stability. Our October issue also explores retail innovations, installation techniques, and pricing strategies, reflecting the industry's multifaceted nature and ability to navigate economic shifts.
Learn about the roadmap required to activate the imaginations of Gen Z recruits, which requires visions of stability, long-term career growth, and the potential to work on meaningful projects.
The industry is preparing for 2025 with a focus on improving installation processes and attracting new talent. Initiatives include Mohawk's CFI certification for product development teams, IFC's partnership with FCEF for workforce development, and various educational programs.
RSS
