Tanja Kern

In a digital world craving human connection, this year's tile innovations from Italy, Spain, and North America bridge technology and tradition. Discover how these trends reflect our collective desire for spaces that feel both cutting-edge and authentically grounded in natural materials and craftsmanship.

From ancient techniques to AI-powered design, my journey through Valencia and Castellón revealed how Spanish tile artisans blend centuries-old craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. 

With an $8 million polishing line investment and breakthrough Dry-Fix technology, Panariagroup USA is setting new industry standards while leveraging its American manufacturing presence to deliver premium surfaces with shorter lead times and consistent quality.

From the 2025 Starnet Annual Meeting in Carlsbad, California, Starnet members share how they are future-proofing their businesses. 

Mohawk Edge Experience Academy delivers comprehensive retail sales training that unified Airbase Carpet & Tile Mart's approach across 14 locations. As owner Michael Longwill said: "We needed a message, we needed a banner, a flag, to really pull us all together, to engage us all, so we could take it to the next level."

Stonepeak Ceramics, the U.S. arm of Italy's Iris Ceramica Group, has received the prestigious Overall Best In Show Award at Coverings 2025, the highest recognition from the Tile Council of North America (TCNA). 

National Floorcovering Alliance Board President Ian Newton reveals member businesses are selling higher-ticket items while traffic slows and shares industry trends during the group's spring meeting in St. Pete Beach, Florida. 

Women of Starnet and Women in the Floorcovering Industry teamed up for a panel discussion in Carlsbad, California, on Women-Owned Business Enterprise and Minority-Owned Business Enterprise certifications. 

As global supply chains falter, Mohawk’s domestic production capabilities have become a compelling competitive advantage. Learn how its North Carolina facilities provide retailers with stability through American-made flooring products that are tariff-free, in-stock, and backed by industry-leading innovations and warranties.