Stuart Hirschhorn, research director at Catalina Research, talks about the opening of the economy and his expectations for the return of floor covering sales and how he expects it to be favorable to the housing sector and the flooring industry. He anticipates people staying home more and working from home more. He talks about anticipated home improvement projects and the effects that a vaccine for COVID-19 might have. Also discussed is the supply chain disruption in building materials from China.

Deb DeGraaf, owner of DeGraaf Interiors and WFCA Chair, talks about measures taken during the COVID-19 such as the company’s development. She talks about the rigid lockdown restrictions in Michigan and the likely toll it will take on flooring retailers and life after the lockdown.

Stuart Hirschhorn, research director at Catalina Research, talks about the effects the COVID-19 shutdown has had on the economy and what the economic recovery will look like once the economy is reopened. Hirschhorn talks about the effect of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and CARES Act checks should have on the economy and the strength and speed of the return of the economy. Also discussed is the return of the manufacturing sector and many food processing operations that were closed down during the shutdown and judging the strength of the comeback.

Bill Yeadon, a training facilitator at Jon-Don, talks about growth in the ranks of cleaning contractors in the U.S. especially among those entering the water damage and restoration segment of the industry, noting that most on the commercial side remain in cleaning. Yeadon talks about the deep cleaning of carpets as well as the importance of vacuuming.

Deb DeGraaf, owner of DeGraaf Interiors and WFCA chair, talks about the coronavirus lockdown order in Michigan and only allowing pick up of products in the company’s warehouse and receiving deliveries. DeGraaf outlines the company’s digital efforts communicating with customers including virtual tours of their showroom.

Elena Grant, vice president of marketing for Taffy Event Strategies, talks about the process of cancelling the Coverings trade show as well as what visitors can expect of the digital trade show Coverings Connected.