Ten years ago, Mohawk Industries launched the SmartStrand carpet brand featuring triexta fiber and it quickly rose to become the most successful product introduction in the company’s history, which dates back to 1878.
Before anyone goes crazy, first let me say, yes, I understand this has been a tough year, much tougher than just about anyone thought it would be after the way 2013 finished.
Gauging an inaugural event, especially a trade show, can be a difficult thing, as there is nothing to which it can be compared other than the expectations of all the parties involved—the show’s owners/promoters, exhibitors and attendees.
For many, the thought of holding a retail convention in Maui, Hawaii, would be considered folly, as most would figure everyone who shows up would spend their entire time at the beach and not be interested in working.
While the number of flooring companies was noticeably down at this year’s Greenbuild in New Orleans it was still clearly evident the industry as a whole remains a leader in this area.
When it comes to buying groups, franchises or co-ops, conventions are generally the one way for the corporate entity to gather the members in one location and lay out the company’s agenda for the next six to 12 months.
The 2015 edition of The International Surface Event (TISE) in Las Vegas will once again feature the combination of SURFACES, StoneExpo/Marmomacc Americas and TileExpo, but as is usually the case with the industry’s largest all-encompassing trade show in North America there’s a whole lot more for participants to seek their teeth into.
While there is no denying many manufacturers—both large and small—have taken to selling and delivering products direct to the retailer, and consolidation has made it difficult at times to figure out which distributor is which, the fact remains wholesalers still play a vital role in helping the specialty dealer and contractor succeed.