COVERINGS REPORTS GROWTH AT 2016 SHOW

The growth and energy at the 2016 Coverings show strengthened the show’s position as the leading international tile and stone exhibition in North America. More than 25,000 industry professionals attended the week-long expo, April 18-21, 2016. This figure is an increase in overall attendance from the 2015 show, and to industry insiders, affirms positive movement in the tile and stone market.

The 25,000-attendance count is a remarkable 15-percent increase from 2009, the last year Coverings was held in Chicago. This year’s most impressive attendance segment is held by distributors, which increased by a noteworthy 18-percent since 2009.

“The uptick in overall attendance from last year signals continued vitality and vigor in the tile and stone industry,” said Alena Capra, Coverings’ Industry Ambassador. “There was an onsite energy that emanated from the show floor, and it is encouraging to have that excitement verified with these recap figures.” Veteran Coverings exhibitors noted the excitement on the show floor as well as the ample opportunities for networking and education that took place during the show.

“This year we had great feedback from key customers that came to the show. It’s important for us to have these quality interactions with attendees,” said Sarah Eamigh, director of U.S. marketing for Stone Peak. “The feedback from the architecture and design crowd is always exciting; there was a great turnout from that segment due to the show’s location in Chicago this year.”

There was no shortage of opportunities for attendees to build on their technical skills or to network with others, as Coverings offered an extensive conference program with more than 75 sessions and CEU courses.

Coverings 2017 will be held April 4-7 in Orlando, Florida.