Radio Stone Update
Stone Update
News and views for the hard-surfaces industry from the online leader covering granite, marble, quartz slabs, large-format porcelain and other stone fabrication in North America.
2024 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Improve; Park Starts Fabricator Exchange™
00:00 Brought to You By TAB Quartz00:18 Intro00:28 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Up in 202402:27 A Word from TAB Quartz03:37 Park Industries Initiates Fabricator Exchange™05:20 Buyers, Vendors Matched at Marmomac Brazil 06:58 Special Features at Xiamen Stone Fair 08:19 M S International Celebrates 50th Anniversary09:23 Vadara Quartz Expands to United Kingdom10:40 Affordable Granite Concepts Joins Business "Ally"11:40 New Zealand Taking Comments on Engineered Stone13:02 Outro14:11 Brought to You By T
TISE '25 Features 750 Global Brands; 400 attend C.Next Fab/Install
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:22 Intro00:33 TISE 2025 Includes 700 Global Brands02:06 A Word from Quantra03:19 400 Attend C.Next Installers/Fabricators Event04:53 Cosentino Matches Funds for L.A. Fire Relief 05:42 Coverings Announces 2025 Educational Lineup 07:28 ISFA Launches New Safety Program08:50 Flow Announces New Sales VPs09:49 Swiss Looking at Recycling Marble Quarry Waste11:34 Outro12:01 Brought to You By QuantraRadio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays ever
New CEO at Coldspring; Solid Year for Brazil Natural Stone Exports
00:00 Brought to You By TAB Quartz00:20 Intro00:30 O'Connor New CEO for Coldspring01:55 A Word from TAB Quartz03:04 UK Stonecarver Fined Over Silica Exposure04:41 USITC Reaffirms China Quartz-Surface Tariff 06:02 LATICRETE Acquires German Profile Maker 07:14 Korea Surfaces Manufacturer Changes Hands08:12 Brazil-U.S. Stone Shipments Up in 202409:47 Arcot New NSI Board Secretary11:10 NSI President Now NKBA Advisor13:44 Outro14:11 Brought to You By TAB QuartzRadio Stone Update is presented on the s
CA Silicosis Safety & Permit Bill Introduced; New Insights on Silicosis Exams
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:22 Intro00:33 New California Silicosis Bill Introduced02:02 A Word from Quantra03:30 California Fab Safety Rules Made Permanent04:48 Silicosis May Evade Early Diagnosis: Study 06:39 Stone Steps Up Southeast Asia Trade Show07:55 Foundation Backs Natural-Stone Work09:48 Eduardo Cosentino Heads Up NKBA10:55 Coldspring Hires New CFO11:57 NSI, ISFA Issues Silicosis Review13:16 NSI Names 2025 Stone of the Year13:44 Outro14:11 Brought to You By QuantraRadio Stone Updat
The Year in Review: 2024
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:22 Intro01:34 Silicosis: The Gonzales-Reyes Lawsuit03:30 Silicosis: California Rules and Laws05:04 A Word from TAB Quartz06:16 Silicosis: May Evade Early Diagnosis 07:01 Silicosis: Increased Government Enforcement08:26 Silicosis: Outside the United States10:03 Tariffs: India Quartz Surface12:15 Tariffs: India Ceramic Tile14:40 Tariffs: China Quartz Surface14:59 Hard-Surface Company Investments17:49 2024 Hard-Surface Trade Events21:39 Worldwide Natural Stone Stra
Cosentino Tags €90 Million to Re-use Waste; New Shipping Cuts Brazil-U.S. Journey by Half
00:00 Brought to You By TAB Quartz00:19 Intro00:33 €90 Million Sustainability Project for Cosentino 02:21 A Word from TAB Quartz03:31 Polycor Modernizes Canada, U.S. Facilities05:04 Pokarna Adding Bretonstone Line06:16 Container-less Shipping Cuts Slab Shipping Times08:03 Xiamen Stone Fair Set for March 202509:48 Latin-American Fabricator Expo Debuts10:23 4th Showroom for Marble & Granite Inc.11:16 MSI Opens New Twin Cities Location12:33 Outro13:01 Brought to You By TAB QuartzRadio Stone Update
Changes Sought in CA Fabrication Rules; Coverings '25 Registration Opens Online
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:23 Intro00:33 Changes Sought in Calif. Fab Silica Rules 02:14 OSHA Seeks Fines in Ala. Slab Death03:59 A Word from TAB Quartz05:12 Online Registration Opens for Coverings 202507:25 NSI Partnering Pinnacle, Tucker Design Awards08:49 Cambria Opens Portland, Ore., Facility09:48 NTCA Names Olson to Ring of Fame11:21 Armina Stone Sponsors NBA's Miami Heat12:43 Outro13:11 Brought to You By QuantraRadio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays ever
Global Cooperation on Sustainable Natural Stone; Color Marble Dropped from Silicosis Case
00:00 Brought to You By TAB Surfaces00:19 Intro00:29 Global efforts for Sustainable Natural Stone02:42 A Word from TAB Quartz03:51 Color Quartz Dropped from Silicosis Award05:39 Marble Systems Inc. Announces VA Expansion06:55 Amendola New Americas CEO at Neolith08:07 UK Considers New Fabrication Safety Rule09:39 2025 Marmomac Brazil in São Paulo10:58 Cosentino Revamps Two U.S. Showrooms12:23 Employees Now Own Premier Granite & Stone13:12 Neolith Gains Good Housekeeping Award13:51 Park Industries
Marmomac Draws More Than 58K; TISE 2025 Online Registration Opens
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:23 Intro00:33 Marmomac Draws 58,00002:02 Cersaie Brings in 90,000+03:25 A Word from Quantra04:37 Masters of Stone - All Women05:48 Coldspring's Hermans First Lundh Award Honoree07:08 Coverings Design, Young Leader Awards Seek Entries08:35 Online Registration Opens for TISE 202510:13 Italians Decry Unfair Tile Imports11:31 Cosentino Group Promotes Four in North America12:23 Weber Joins NTCA Staff12:55 Outro12:24 Brought to You By QuantraRadio Stone Update is pres
ISFA Announces Agenda for 2024 Annual Conference
Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at www.radiostoneupdate.com.
Silicosis Triggers OSHA $1 Million Fine; Sax New NTCA Deputy Director
00:00 Brought to You By Quantra00:23 Intro00:33 $1 Million OSHA Fine Tied to Silicosis03:18 Jeremy Sax New NTCA Deputy Director04:51 A Word from Quantra06:04 Washington State Imposes $300K-plus Sliica Fine07:18 California Hits 9 Shops With Silica-related Fines08:47 Online Poker Charity Tourney for Stone Charities11:23 U.S., U.K. Fabricators Form Strategic Partnership13:01 Online Signup Opens for KBIS 202514:05 Vadara Signs Up East-Coast Distributors15:12 Princeton Chemical Hires Ruth for Custome
$52 Million Damages in Silicosis Trial; Higher Shipping Prices Hit Caesarstone
00:00 Brought to You By ...00:21 Intro00:31 $52 Million Damages in Silicosis Trial03:08 Cosentino: Challenges beyond 2Q 202405:37 A Word from Quantra06:50 Exports Key for Cachoeiro Stone Show08:43 ISFA Annual Meet Set for Miami Area10:20 Porcelain Training Next Month in Austin, Texas11:59 UMI to Distribute Vicostone Along East Coast12:51 TCNA Gets Green Education Grant13:57 Silicosis Assessment Docs from NSI15:15 Hegland Now VP Sales/Marketing at Park15:57 Outro16:25 Brought to You By ...Radio S
Calif. Silicosis Legislation Dead; ISFA Fabricator Sessions in Aug., Sept.
00:00 Intro00:30 California Silicosis Bill Withdrawn02:29 José "Pepe" Cosentino Dies at 7803:29 A Word from Tab Quartz04:39 ISFA Fabricator Forums in August, September06:22 Park Digital Expo in Hawaii in October07:38 MSI Repeats as U.S. "Top Seller"09:08 Iris Ceramica Produces Green-Powered Slab11:23 SIKA Building New Mortar Plant in N.J.12:38 OutroThis episode is brought to you by TAB Quartz.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9
Cutting Edge Adds L.E. Smith; Transshipping Thai Quartz Surfaces
00:00 Intro00:34 Cutting Edge Countertops Adds L.E. Smith Co.02:39 Customs Investigates Thai Transship of China Quartz05:04 A Word from Quantra06:16 Italy Stone Sector Posts Trade Surplus07:33 TISE 2025 Presentation Deadline Extended09:10 NTCA Adds Five-Star Contractors10:25 OutroThis episode of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces
Neolith Introducing Silica-Free "New Look;" One Plus Invests in Grupo Siti
00:19 Intro00:30 The Size Presents 2nd Half 2024 Strategic Plans02:59 Grupo Siti Gets Private-Equity Investment05:12 A Word from TAB Quartz06:20 U.S. Hard-Surfaces Import Trends from January-April09:47 Sims-Lohman Adds Legacy Cabinet 11:02 Kephart New NTCA Consultant12:52 NTCA Wins Regional Graphics Award13:46 OutroRadio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at
India Tariffs: Try Again with Quartz Surface, "Material Harm" with Tile
00:00 Intro00:33 India Quartz Tariff Sent Back to Commerce Dept.02:26 Ceramic Tile Tariffs on India Move Ahead04:05 A Word from Quantra05:18 Jan-April Brazil Natural Stone Exports Hit 10-Year High06:49 Creative, Technical Merge for Stone at Marmomac08:54 Coverings 2024 Draws Nearly 25,00010:46 New Stone Show Set for Vietnam in December12:08 Entries Sought for ISFA Awards13:48 Poortinga Joins Alpha Professional Tools®15:10 OutroThis edition of Radio Stone Update is brought to you by Quantra.Radio
Caesarstone Losses Continue; Marmomac Visits Chicago; 1Q U.S. Hard-Surface Imports
00:19 Intro00:30 Caesarstone First Quarter 2024 Results03:57 Marmomac Trade Mission in Chicago05:28 A Word from TAB Quartz06:37 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports in 1Q 202409:36 Summer 2024 Digital Seminars from BACA Systemss10:55 Silica Safety with NSI's Jim Hieb12:06 Kubesh Joins NSI's Board13:13 2024 NTCA Tom Ade Scholarship Winners14:09 Thorntree Honored by Italian Tile Industry15:10 OutroThis edition of Radio Stone Update is underwritten by TAB Quartz.Radio Stone Update is presented on th
Ceramic-Tile Use Down in U.S.; Park Goes East for June Stoneworking Expo; more.
Ceramic-tile use declined in the United States in 2023; Park Industries Heads East for June Digital Stoneworking Expo®; and Natural Stone Institute CEO Jim Hieb offers a reminder on shop safety. 00:22 Intro00:33 Ceramic Tile Use Down in 2023 in United States02:41 Park Industries Plans Expo in June near Washington04:28 A Word from Quantra05:40 ISFA West Coast Fabricator Forum Set for June 11-1307:31 Woody Sanders in NTCA Ring of Honor09:08 NSI's Jim Hieb on Shop Safety10:18 Arizona Tile Prom
U.S. Tile Producers Seek Unfair-Trade Tariff Against India; Lambert is 2024 Tile Person
U.S. tile producers want unfair-trade tariffs on imports of ceramic tile from India; Elizabeth Lambert is NTCA's Tile Person of the Year; Coverings Honors Tenth Anniversary Rock Stars.00:18 Intro00:28 U.S. Tile Producers Seek Unfair-Trade Tariffs on India03:17 Elizabeth Lambert is NTCA Tile Person of the Year04:33 A Word from TAB Quartz05:43 Coverings Honors 10th Class of Rock Stars06:59 Hardscape North Americs 2024 Registration Opens08:54 "Stone Takes the Stage" at 2024 Marmomac1
Cosentino Hits $1.7 Billion in Annual Revenue; Australia Refines Engineered-Stone Ban; more.
Cosentino Group tops $1.7 billion in worldwide revenue for 2023; Australia refines engineered-stone ban; Coverings 2024 prepares for Earth Day.This edition of Radio Stone Update is brought to you by Quantra.0:23 Intro00:33 Cosentino Hits $1.7 billion in 202303:38 A Word from Quantra04:51 Australia Refines Engineered-Stone Ban06:23 Landmark Revamps Tennessee Factory07:30 Coverings 2024 Plans for Earth Day09:17 NSI Opens Entries for 2024 Pinnacles, Industry Honors11:35 Koteles Joins Northwood Mach
New Quarrier Award from NSI; Report from Xiamen Stone Fair; more.
The Natural Stone Institute announces a new annual award for quarriers; Technistone nixes materials for dry fabricators in the U.K.; and Stone Update Editor Emerson Schwartzkopf reports on the Xiamen Stone Fair in China this month.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at www.radiostoneupdate.com.
Coverings Sets Active 2024 Agenda; New ISFA Fabricator Program Next Month
Coverings 2024 sets active 2024 agenda in Atlanta; new ISFA fabricator program starts next month in Charlotte, N.C.; KBIS draws 41,500 to Las Vegas in 2024; more.00:19 Intro00:34 Coverings 2024 Offers Education in Atlanta04:35 A Word from Quantra05:39 ISFA Revamps Fabricator Meet In April08:07 KBIS Draws 41,000 in Las Vegas in February09:59 NTCA Porcelain-Panel Training in March11:18 Flooring Sustainablity Summit Speakers13:17 Gee Joins GI Stone14:13 Gaines New CFO at Louisville Tile15:11 Crowd
Caesarstone U.S. Revenue Down 20% in 2023; U.S. 2023 Hard-Surface Imports Drop 15%.
Caesarstone optimistic for 2024 after tumultuous year; U.S. hard-surface imports readjust after end of post-pandemic boom; Cosentino hosts C.Next in Cabo.00:30 Caesarstone Plans Ahead After Tumultuous 202304:30 A Word from TAB Quartz05:43 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Down 15% in 202308:29 Cosentino Offers C.Next Sessions in Cabo11:01 Neolith Taps Sanchez as CEO for North America, LATAM12:27 Brazil Shows Natural Stone's Best at KBIS14:14 NSI Honors Arcot, OsterhoutRadio Stone Update is presente
2023 Brazil Natural-Stone Exports Top $1B; Marmomac Brazil Event Will Debut Next Year
Brazil's 2023 exports of natural stone breaks $1 billion mark; Vitória Stone Fair will move to São Paulo in 2025; flooring sustainability summit set for this summer; more. 00:19 Intro00:32 Brazil Tops $1 Billion in Natural Stone Exports in 202302:21 Vitoria Stone Fair Moving to Sao Paulo04:05 First Flooring Sustainability Summit Set for July05:38 A Word from Quantra06:51 NSI Honors Three With Industry Recognition Awards11:04 NTCA Porcelain Panel Training in February12:52 NTCA Delegation Hea
Management Changes at Polycor; Yellowstone Equpment Debuts; more.
Patrick Perus steps down as Polycor president/CEO; Yellowstone Equipment offers new line of affordable CNC equipment; BACA Systems, Comandulli partner.00:19 Intro00:29 Top Management Changes at Polycor03:12 Yellowstone Equipment Debuts04:38 A Word from TAB Quartz05:47 BACA Systems, Comandulli Partner in USA07:08 NSI Stone of the Year: Calacatta Lincoln08:02 New ISFA Board Directors09:46 Behrends Joins Rockheads Group10:36 OHM Intl., Virginia Tile Partner with Valiant Surfaces11:57 Goddin Joins T
Biesse Acquires GMM; Caesarstone Closing U.S. Factory
Biesse acquiring the GMM Group of companies; Caesarstone shutters its U.S. plant in Georgia; Bankert new ISFA exec director.00:19 Intro00:31 Biesse Acquires GMM Group03:02 Caesarstone Shutting U.S. Factory04:03 A Word from Quantra05:15 Marissa Bankert New ISFA Exec Director06:45 King Tile & Construction Enters U.S. Market08:27 Stone Industry Education 2014 Schedule Set10:02 NSI Elects Dumais, Niedbalski as Directors11:12 MSI Opens New Las Vegas Location11:57 Elena Grant Joins NTCA Staff12:53
Hard-Surface Year in Review: 2023
Silicosis heads the list of top news for the year, but there's plenty of other areas that made the headlines in the world of hard surfaces.00:30 Intro01:01 Silicosis Update: Australia, California04:30 Caesarstone Reorganizes, Closes U.S. Factory07:34 A Word from Quantra08:47 Manu Shah, MSI Founder, Retires.11:01 Tariffs: India Quartz Rate Re-Reset, Section 301 Appeal14:47 Trade Shows Continue Revival in 202317:14 Cosentino Plans U.S. Florida Factory; TN Tile-Slab20:47 Polycor Acqui
Caesarstone 3Q: Another Loss; Learn About StoneMart 2024 and Sourcing from India
Caesarstone reports another quarterly loss; Portobello Group opens Tennessee facility; and a special interview with StoneMart 2024 organizers and sourcing direct from India.Radio Stone Update is presented on the first and third Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at www.radiostoneupdate.com.
Australian Agency Backs Quartz-Surface Ban; Coverings Registration Open
Australia's OSHA recommends engineered-stone ban; Coverings 2024 registration open; Italian stone exports down; more.0:00 Intro0:32 Australia Ponders Quartz-Surface Ban3:52 Coverings 2024 Registration Open5:37 A Word from Quantra6:50 Hardscape N.A. Part of Record-Breaking Show8:21 NTCA Names Walker, Edelmayer to Ring of Honor9:35 Marmomac Elevates Four to Masters of Stone11:07 Italian Stone Exports Down in 202312:30 Newell Now CEO at Louisville Tile13:20 TCNA Test Lab Honored14:31
TISE Online Registration Open; ParkFest a Success
TISE 2024 online registration now open; Park Industries scores a hit with ParkFest; Brazil ornamental stone shines at Marmomac; more.0:00 Intro0:30 TISE 2024 Online Registration Open3:23 ParkFest a Success for Park Industries4:54 A Word from TAB Quartz6:03 Brazil Offers Showcase at Marmomac8:09 Coverings Design and RockStar Awards Seeking Entries10:45 NSI Helps with More R.I.S.E. Homes12:51 IPS Adhesives, LOTTE Staron in Distribution Deals with Doyle Ferris13:39 Euro Tile & Stone Opens in To
OSHA Stepping Up Silicosis Enforcement Nationwide
OSHA to intensify silicosis-related inspections; Italian trade shows grow in 2023; ISFA continues mineral-surface training; more.0:00 Intro0:32 OSHA Steps Up Silica Enforcement2:46 California Aiming for Early 2023 Emergency Silica Rules4:35 Marmomac, Cersaie Grow in 20236:15 A Word from Quantra7:28 ISFA Continues Mineral-Surfaces Training8:39 NSI Study Tour 2023: Western Colorado10:03 MSI Opens in Oklahoma City11:00 Kaesar Compressors Now in Salt Lake City11:44 NTCA Porcelain-Panel Traini
Caesarstone, Cosentino to Expand U.S., Canada Design Centers by Year's End
Caesarstpme. Cosentino to expand U.S. and Canadian design centers by year's end; U.S. ceramic-tile use dips in first-half 2023; more China-quartz transshippers affirmed by U.S. Customs.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at www.radiostoneupdate.com.
Polycor Finishes Rocamat Acquisition; Brazil Natural Stone Exports Gain at Trade Event
Polycor Group puts the final touches on acquring French stone producer Rocamat; Brazil Stone Exports Gain During Cachoeiro Stone Fair; IDG Adds Trajus Surfaces; more.0:00 Intro0:32 Polycor Completes ROCAMAT Acquisition2:17 Brazil Stone Exportts Gain $3 Million at August Show4:29 A Word From Quantra5:25 International Design Group Adds Trajus Surfaces7:20 Portobello Brings Tennessee Plant to Production8:38 UMG Surfaces Opens Minneapolis-area Showroom9:31 NSI Aids with More R.I.S.E. Homes11:
Lapitec Gains EU Mark; Big 2Q Loss for Caesarstone; more
Lapitec is the first manufacturer to meet EU sintered-stone guidelines; Caesarstone posts large loss for second quarter 2023; natural stone beats man-made in green comparison; more. 0:00 Intro0:32 Lapitec is First EU Sintered Stone2:05 A Word From Quantra3:17 Large Loss in Second Quarter '23 for Caesarstone5:11 Natural Stone Beats Man-made in Green Comparison6:47 Hydrogen to Power New Iris Ceramica Factory8:34 Laminam to Open 5 North American Facilities10:20 Park Industries® to Hold ParkFes
More California Silicosis Action; also, Marmomac 2023 Preview
More California action on silicosis and engineered stone; "fritted sand" considered quartz for U.S. tariff purposes; MSI, Arizona Tile unveil facility changes.Also, learn more about Marmomac 2023 in late September with Carlotta di Colloredo of Veronafiere.0:00 Intro0:29 California to Fast-Track Emergency Silicosis Rules3:24 Fritted Sand is Quartz for U.S. Tariff Purposes5:28 A Word from TAB Quartz6:38 MSI, Arizona Tile Offer New Showrooms8:06 Cersaie, Marmomac Open Online Registration9
Study: Quartz Surfaces 35% of U.S. C'top Demand; U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Lagging
A study shows quartz surfaces take 35% of U.S. countertop demand; Patty Dominguez expands Cosentino Americas vice-president role; U.S. hard-surface imports in May still lag behind 2022 totals.0:00 Intro0:33 Study: Quartz Surfaces 35% of N. American C'top Demand3:14 Dominguez Expands Cosentino Americas Role4:54 A Word from Quantra6:08 U.S. Hard Surface Imports Lag in May7:35 Vadara Names TGP in Florida Distribution Deal8:44 NTCA Slates Porcelain-Panel Training in July, August10:21 Lo
EU Defines Sintered Stone; $25 Million in Brazilian Stone Business During Coverings; more.
EU declares an official definition for sintered-stone materials; natural-stone vendors at Coverings write $25 million in business; April 2023 U.S. hard-surface imports on tepid pace; more.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at www.radiostoneupdate.com.
L.A. County to Ban Quartz Surfaces?; MSI in Top 20 for U.S. Container Imports; Xiamen Show Returns
L.A. County's supervisors make initial moves to possibly ban quartz-surface use; MSI ranks in the top 20 for U.S. container imports; Xiamen Stone Fair shows strong recovery; more. 0:00 Intro0:33 L.A. County Mulls Quartz-Surface Ban2:42 MSI in Top 20 U.S. Container Importers4:26 A Word from Quantra5:38 2023 Xiamen Stone Fair Report8:36 Cambria Opens Los Angeles Facility9:11 ISFA Chicago Fabricator Crawl in July10:31 Alpha Professional Tools Hires Landseadal 11:18 OutroRadio Stone Update is p
Update on China, India Quartz Tariff Challenges; Caesarstone to Close Oldest Plant
Federal court challenge ends on China quartz-surface tariffs, but continues on India duties; Caesarstone to close oldest plant as part of corporate revamp; Cutting Edge Countertops hires a president; and the Tile Council of North America goes to the dogs (again).0:31 Update on China, India Quartz-Tariff Challenges3:19 Caesarstone to Close Original Quartz Factory6:17 A Word from TAB Quartz7:27 Heerdegen is First President of Cutting Edge Countertops8:47 TCNA Goes to the Dogs (Again)10:08 Brazil T
Kitchen/Bath Market Study Shows Optimism for 2023; Coverings Draws Nearly 27,000 in April.
A market study shows a glimmer of optimism from U.S. kitchen and bath professionals for the rest of 2023; Coverings draws nearly 27,000 in Orlando last month; Park plans digital expo in Cincinnati next month.0:32 2023 Optimism from Kitchen/Bath Professionals3:16 Park Industries Plans June Digital Expo in Ohio4:31 A Word from Quantra5:43 Coverings Draws Nearly 27,000 Last Month7:26 Hardscape N.A. Registration Now Open8:20 MSI Opens New Facility in Savannah Area9:42 Brazil Natural Stone at Milan
Cosentino U.S. Factory Moves Closer to Reality; Slight Downturn for U.S. Tile in 2022; Fifth Gear Acquires ETemplate
A land deal in Jacksonville, Fla., for a Cosentino production plant gets an initial OK; U.S. tile demand down slightly in 2022; Fifth Gear Technologies acquires ETemplate Systems.0:00 Intro0:29 Cosentino U.S. Plant Land Sale Moves Ahead2:51 U.S. Tile Market Flat in 20226:17 A Word from TAB Quartz7:26 Griese Named TCNA Deputy Executive Director8:57 Sims-Lohman Appoints New President, CFO9:54 Fifth Gear Technology Acquires ETemplate Systems11:54 Trajus Surfaces Distributes Silestone®12:07 NTCA Pla
China Section 301 Tariffs Upheld; Quartz Manfacturers Call for Education, Govt. Oversight
The 25% Section 301 tariffs on Chinese exports to the United States, including those on hard surfaces, will remain. Major quartz-surface manufacturers address the silicosis issue, and new facilities open for MSI and Arizona Tile.0:00 Intro0:32 China Section 301 Tariffs Upheld2:47 Quartz Manf. Group Speaks on Silicosis4:32 MSI, Arizona Tile Open New Facilities7:05 A Word from Quantra8:18 Natural Stone Institute Awards Program Seeks Entries10:04 BB Industries Acquires Innovative Tool Solutions 11:
New CEO at Caesarstone; French Quarry Gets Sustainability Rating; First U.S. LX Hausys Showroom; more.
A familiar face is the new CEO of Caesarstone; a French limestone quarry gets the NSI's Sustainability rating; LX Hausys opens its first U.S. direct-to-consumer showroom; more.0:29 Shiran Back as Caesarstone CEO2:53 French Quarry Gets Sustainability Tag 4:12 A Word from TAB5:20 LX Hausys Opens 1st U.S. Consumer Showroom6:41 MSI Gets New Seattle-area Location 8:12 Cambria Debuts New San Francisco-area Facility 9:19 Stone Panels International CEU Educator of the Year 11:11 McDermott Newest
Polycor Acquires ROCAMAT; Taiwan Quartz Transshipping?; Australia Silicosis Fight; more.
Polycor acquires all of French natural-stone producer ROCAMAT; U.S. cites possible Taiwan transshipping of China quartz; Australian quartz ban raised by health ministers.0:00 Intro0:33 Polycor Acquires All of ROCAMAT3:08 China Quartz Transshipping from Taiwan Probed4:50 A Word from Quantra6:03 Australian Health Ministers Meet on Possible Quartz Import Ban7:21 Coverings 2023 Top 10 Tile Trends8:28 NTCA Sponsors West Coast Porcelain Panel Workshops9:46 Xiamen Stone Fair Online Registration Open11:
EU Unfair-Trade Tile Tariffs; Porcelanosa New Facility; U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Dip in December
European Union Sets Unfair-Trade Tariffs on India, Turkey Tile; Porcelanosa Opens New €55 Million Tile Slab Plant; U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Drop in December; more.0:00 Open0:32 EU Unfair-Trade Tile Tariffs on India, Turkey3:03 Porcelanosa Opens New Spanish Tile Slab Plant5:02 Manitoba Limestone Given Global Heritage Status6:55 A Word from Quantra8:08 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Dip in December9:46 Corian® Design Makes Sample Kits Sustainable11:01 U.K. Parlimentary Panel Asks for Silicosis A
Public Offering for Cosentino?; Ontra NSI Person of the Year; ISFA Awards Open
Cosentino Group may offer a minority stake in the company in a public stock offering; Buddy Ontra is NSI Person of the Year; ISFA Awards Open; key retirements coming at Coldspring; and more.0:00 Intro0:33 Public Offering for Cosentino1:54 Buddy Ontra is NSI Person of the Year3:31 ISFA Awards Open for Entries5:17 A Word from Quantra6:29 New Methods Coming for Marble Preservation8:05 Key Retirements at Coldspring9:49 Polycor Acquires Ebel Quarries10:40 200,000 in Las Vegas for KBIS, TISE, Other Sh
Minn. Tile and Stone Sold; MSI's Manu Shah Retires; November '22 U.S. Hard-Surface Exports Down
0:00 Intro for XTONE-Porcelanosa0:50 Minnesota Tile and Stone Acquired2:53 Manu Shah Retires as MSI CEO5:11 A Word from XTONE6:34 Brazil Natural Stone Breaks Out at TISE8:14 November U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Drop Sharply9:21 Park Digital Stoneworking Expo on March 2 in SoCal10:19 XTONE Reception in Las Vegas on Jan. 3011:12 Namib Bianco Marble is 2023 Stone of the Year11:52 ISFA Announces New Directors for 202312:45 Natural Stone Institute Grants 2022 Scholarships13:44 Sign-offRadio S
Split Decision on India Quartz Tariffs; MSI Plans Major Virginia Facility; TISE Badge Good at KBIS
Tariffs on India quartz surfaces remain the same, except for one manufacturing group. Also, MSI plans a $61.6 million distribution hub in Virginia, and a TISE badge late this month will get you into KBIS and more.0:00 Intro0:34 Split Decision on India Quartz Tariffs3:15 MSI Plans $61.6 Million Virginia Facility5:12 One Badge, Many Shows in Las Vegas This Month6:35 A Word from Quantra7:48 Caesarstone Cuts Worldwide Workforce by 10%9:12 Treanor: StonExpo Expands Natural-Stone Education11:32
2022 Year in Review in Hard Surfaces - Radio Stone Update
Stone Update Contributing Editor K. Schipper and Editor Emerson Schwartzkopf review the top stories in the U.S. hard-surfaces industry for 2022.0:44COVID Remnants Affect Shows4:19U.S Hard-Surface Imports: Value Up, Volume Soft7:15Marmomac, Cersaie, Coverings Attendance Up 9:41A Word from Quantra 10:53Malaysia, India Quartz Tariffs in 2022 14:27U.S. Natural Stone Sustainability Standard Update 15:43Rolling Changes in U.S. Kitchen & Bath Industry Outlook 18:18Natural-Stone Environmental/Health
More Cooling in U.S. Kitchen/Bath Market; TISE Looking to Boost Start-ups at 2023 Show; NTCA Tilesetter Honors.
A study shows a continued slowdown in the U.S. kitchen-and-bath market; TISE looking for start-up companies to promote at 2023 event; NTCA salutes tilesetters of the year.0:34U.S. Kitchen/Bath Market Continues to Cool 3:53NTCA Tilesetter Craftspersons of the Year 5:32TISE Looking to Boost Startups During 2023 Show 6:47A Word From Quantra 7:59September 2022 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Down 9:33MSI's Shahs Honored by Resolution Project 11:21Caesarstone Donates Slabs to Georgia Schools 12:18Kaes
U.S. Countertops at $37.6B by 2026?; Natural Stone EPDs, HPDs Available; Coverings Awards Now Open
One group of industry analysts sees the U.S. countertop retail market at $37.6 billion by 2026. Also, the Natural Stone Institute offers documentation on stone and enviroment/health issues, and Coverings opens its annual design and installation competition.00:32U.S. Countertops at $37.3 billion by 202602:57Entries sought for Coverings installation/design awards.04:25Environmental, Health Product Declarations for natural stone06:28A word from Quantra07:41Sustainability Details: Cosentino09:20NKBA
Section 301 Tariff Comments Next Month; Certification Needed for Malaysia Quartz Surface Imports; more.
The federal government will hear comments on Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods; certification will be needed to import quartz surfaces from Malaysia; Quarra Stone to open $19 million campus in Wisconsin; more.00:33 Section 301 Tariff Comments to be Heard02:31 Certification Required for Malaysia Quartz-Surface Imports05:47 A Word from Quantra07:00 MSI Opens New Haven Area Facility 07:00 MSI Opens New Haven Area Facility 08:10 U.S. Hard Surface Imports Hits Another New High09:51 Manu Shaw Honor
Marmomac, Cersaie Attendance Up Sharply; NTCA Offers Porcelain-Panel Sessions.
In This Episode:0:33Marmomac 2022 Draws 47,0002:16Cersaie 2022 Close to Pre-Pandemic Attendance3:08NTCA Holding Porcelain-Panel Training in Western U.S.5:25Diamant Boart Changing Branding to Husqvarna6:17U.S. Stone Industries Certified for Sustainability8:13Xiamen 2022 Show Shows 5% Growth9:03Louisville Tile Acquires Mid America Tile9:43BB Industries Adds Utah Warehouse SupervisorRadio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with th
U.S. Kitchen/Bath Market Cooling in '22? - BACA Restarts In-Person Seminars - Florim Wins Tenn. Green Award
0:32U.S. Kitchen/Bath Market Cooling: NKBA2:43Florim USA Wins Tenn. Environmental Award4:45A Word from Quantra6:01BACA Systems Brings Back In-Person Seminars7:16Cambria Supports Wis. Workforce Training Center9:24MSI Opens Pittsburgh-Area Facility10:36KBIS 2023 Online Registration Now Open12:39Natural Stone Institute - RISE Home 44Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check
Caesarstone Sets Record 2Q Revenue in 2022; Park Holds Digital Expo in mid-September; SESA Adds 50th
00:32 Caesarstone Announces 2Q 2022 Results3:05 SESA Goes to 50 Members4:07 Park Industries Announces September Expo6:11 U.S. Hard-Surface Imports for June7:24 Construction Resources Changes Ownership10:03 Pangaea Stone Goes All Solar for Roof11:04 MSI Noted in Top 50 by Selling Power11:51 R.I.S.E. House #44 for Natural Stone Institute13:07 BB Industries Named Top Workplace in KnoxvilleRadio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on
Radio Stone Update SPECIAL: Marmomac 2022
00:00 Welcome to Stone Update00:33 The Upcoming Stone Event: Marmomac02:15 How Many Exhibitors for 2022, and Where are they From?03:06 What's the Product Mix for This Year?03:50 Expanding Marmomac to Encompass More Design05:23 Building on Marmomac 2021's Success06:16 The Unique Experience of Marmomac07:09 Marmomac is English-Friendly07:49 Start Online with Marmomacplus.com09:13 Now a Tuesday-thru-Friday Event09:44 A Word from Quantra10:57 Considering a 2022 Marmomac Visit11
India Quartz Tariff on the Rise?; Georgia Granite Oddity Destroyed; MSI Opens 2 New Locations.
00:31 India Quartz Tariff Could Reach 161%01:55 Granite Georgia Guidestones Landmark Blown Up03:34 Kaesar Compressors Celebrates 1st Anniversary of Green Energy05:00 A Word from Quantra06:12 MSI Opens Two New Eastern U.S. Showroom/Distribution Centers07:33 2 New CEU Courses from Natural Stone Institute08:36 Belgard Begins Outdoor-Living Contractor Podcast10:19 Louisville Tile Adds Tiemann10:49 TISE Regional Installation Competition11:43 Bostik Academy Offering Online Education12:30 IC
Natural Stone Institute Endorses Hardscape Show; Marble Overtakes Granite in U.S. Imports; more.
The Natural Stone Institute endorses the Hardscape North America event in mid-October; the 2022 Xiamen show will open mid-summer; and marble overtakes granite in shipment values in April U.S. hard-surface imports.00:00 Welcome to Stone Update00:30 Natural Stone Institute Endorses Hardscape North America02:54 Details on Hardscape North America 202204:01 Natural Stone Entries for Hardscape Awards05:24 A Word from Quantra06:40 Xiamen 2022 Show In-Person in Mid-Summer08:51 Marble Overtakes Granite i
Industry Optimistic for Rest of 2022; Equity Firm Acquires TENAX Majority Stake; more.
A National Kitchen and Bath Association study shows industry optimism for the remainder of 2022; majority stake in TENAX S.p.A. acquired by European equity firm; Mosaic Companies expand U.S. East Coast operations; more. 00:00 Welcome to Radio Stone Update00:34 Industry Survey Shows Positive '22 Outlook03:18 Equity Firm Gets TENAX Stake05:11 A Word from Quantra06:27 Mosaic Companies Expand Operations07:46 Mitigation Needed at Colorado Marble Quarry09:20 Cosentino Reopens Manhattan Cit
Caesarstone Sets Record Q1; Crisis in European Tile Production; Granite for the Statue of Liberty
Caesarstone first-quarter 2022 sets a revenue record; energy, clay crunch bedevils Europe's big tile producers; new granite from Maine will shore up Statue of Liberty base; more. 00:32Record Q1 for Caesarstone in 202203:46Russian-Ukranian War Impacts Europe Tile05:29SESA Sponsors Manufactured-Stone Pavilion at TISE 202308:11Maine Granite Heading to Statue of Liberty10:09MSI Opens New Wisconsin Facility11:44ISFA Mineral-Surfaces Fab Training13:06Park Industries Digital Expo Next Month in Den
Neolith Acquired by CVC; Polycor Changes Ownership; U.S. Court Upholds "Glass Quartz" Tariff.
Neolith acquired by global private-equity investor CVC Capital; Polycor changes ownership structure; Cosentino reports record revenues in 2021; "glass quartz" tariff upheld by U.S. Court of Appeals.00:32Neolith acquired by CVC Capital.02:44Cosentino reports record year in 2021.04:36Polycor announced new ownership structure.07:42Coverings 2022 draws 18,000 to Las Vegas in April.09:41U.S. court upholds "glass quartz"tariff validity.11:13Natural Stone Institute announces new ver
Special Edition: Coverings 2022 with Arpi Nalbandian
A special interview with Arpi Nalbandian of Tileometry at Coverings 2022 in Las Vegas on April 5, 2022.00:00 Intro 00:23 Welcome to the show, Arpi Nalbandian01:06 Arpi, What's Different About Coverings This Year?02:02 Products Exemplifiy the Wellness Trend in Tile02:50 What Products are Interesting This Year?04:33 Just What Makes Tile Biophilic?05:21 Themes in Tile at Coverings 202206:16 Is Porcelain Slab Taking Over the Show?07:55 The Direction of Tile Design Today09:42 A Word from Quantra
Spain, China Events Face More Problems; Marmomac '22 Moves Ahead; Polycor Acquires Evans Limestone
Trade events in Spain and China postponed; Marmomac 2022 Moves Ahead for September; Polycor acquires Evans Limestone.0:31China, Spain Trade Events in Spring Postponed2:40Marmomac 2022 Moves Ahead for September4:0525% Tariffs on China Natural Stone Upheld -- for Now.7:19Lapitec Announces U.S. Presence8:10Cutting Edge Countertops Acquires Easyfit Products9:39Polycor Acquires Evans Limestone10:48Mosaic Companies Investing in Inventory11:35Pacific Shore Stones Now in Reno12:33Natural Stone Institut
New Silica-Dust Rules in Australia; KBIS/IBS Attracts 70,000; Walker Zanger Expands Mexico Plant
Australia hits hard on engineered stone with new silicosis rules; KBIS/IBS brings in 70,000 in Orlando; Walker Zanger investing in Mexico tile plant.0:34Australia Tightens Silica-Dust Rules for Engineered Stone2:36KBIS/IBS Attracts 70,000 in 20225:06Walker Zanger Invests in Mexico Tile Plant6:09Entries Open for Natural Stone Institutes 2022 Awards8:13Cambria Opening New Sales/Distribution Facilities9:06Natural Stone Institute - RISE House 41Respirator audio by dobroide/CC by 3.0Radio Stone Updat
U.S. Customs Probes Malaysia Quartz Imports; MSI Opening New North Carolina Location; more.
U.S. Customs to continue investigating 10 importers concerning possible Chinese quartz-surface transshipping; Cosentino gets independent approval on Silestone® sustainability; MSI to open new location in North Carolina capital city.00:33U.S. Customs Continues Transshipping Probe 2:59Silestone® Gets Independent Green Certification 5:35Natural-Stone Sustainability Standard Updated7:25MSI to Open New Facility in Raleigh, N.C. 8:20Coverings Notes Top Tile Trends for '22 10:01Caesarstone Taps Co
Caesarstone Sees $1 Billion by 2025; U.S. Hard-Surface Imports End Year on Up Note; more.
Caesarstone sees $1.5 million in worldwide revenues by 2025; U.S. hard-surface imports up from November, far ahead of December 2020; Wyoming capitol project gets Grande Pinnacle honors.0:32Caesarstone anticipates $1 billion in worldwide revenues by 2025.3:22Wyoming capitol restoration gets top Pinnacles honor.7:15U.S. hard-surfaces imports up at year's end.8:25Dal-Tile celebrates 75th anniversary.10:17 Nebraska granite shipment in Washington state truck crash.11:00LATICRETE appoints Jerry P
Vitoria Show Delayed; U.S. Investigating Malaysian Quartz Imports
Major Brazilian stone event postponed this month; U.S. to investigate transshipping of Chinese quartz through Malaysia; Westlake Building Products debuts; Pokarna/Quantra "Great Place to Work".0:31Vitoria Stone Fair Delayed Until Later This Year 1:48U.S. to Investigate Malaysian Exporters for Transshipping 3:30Westlake Building Products Debuts 6:36TCNA Announces Slip-Resistance Classifications 8:34Pokarna/Quantra "Great Place to Work" 10:38Olympian White Danby Marbl
Xiamen Show Delayed Until May; MSI Expanding in K.C.; NTCA's Van Life.
The Xiamen Stone Fair in China will delay its opening from mid-March to early May. Also, MSI breaks ground on a new facility in the Kansas City area; and the National Tile Contractors Association will share its van life at TISE.0:34Xiamen 2022 Show Delayed Until May2:05MSI Building New Kansas City Area Facility3:38U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Up and Down in November 6:15NTCA to Show Van Training at TISE 8:02Natural Stone Institute Scholarships 2022 9:36IPS Adhesives Builds Exec Team 10:41Evan Cohe
Tariff Rulings Appealed; Spain Tile Expo Postponed; Cambria Expanding Production.
Two federal-court rulings concerning quartz tariffs are being appealed; Cevisama organizers postpone Valencia tile event from February to June; Cambria embarks on first phase of manufacturing expansion.00:31Appeals Move Forward on Quartz-Surface Tariff Rulings 03:06Customs Affirm China Tariff Evasion 04:44Cevisama Postponed from February to June 07:17Pearlman Acquires ADT/Vector Tools 08:34Cambria Expanding Quartz-Surface Production Capacity 10:01Natural Stone Institute - RISE House 40 11:
Radio Stone Update 2021 Wrap-Up
A roundup of the significant news for 2021 in the hard-surfaces industry.0:242021: Companies Bought and Sold6:222021: U.S. Hard-Surface Imports9:402021: Sustainability and Health12:342021: Trade Shows15:212021: Tariffs and Trade18:342021: General News21:362021: Passings(teletype_fast_speed.wav CC 3.0 by stratcat322)Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at
Laminam Expands Italian Production; Caesarstone Sets Record 3Q Revenue; more.
Laminam doubles production at its automated Italian porcelain-panel factory; Caesarstone sets a new record for third-quarter revenues; Cutting Edge Countertops donates more than $14,000 to Habitat for Humanity; more.00:21Laminam Doubles Production at Italian Plant 02:04Caesarstone Sets 3Q Revenue Record04:22Cutting Edge Countertops Supports Habitat for Humanity 05:11Internships Eased by Natural Stone U. Program 06:40Costentino Gets Spain-US C-of-C Honor08:19Kaeser Compressors Paying Shipping Of
Select Interior Concepts Acquired; Coverings Connected Online on Nov. 17; more.
Select Interior Concepts goes private and changes its name to Architectural Surfaces Group; Coverings Connected online features Natural Stone Institute President Michael Picco on Nov. 17; Stone Industry and Supply Alliance (SESA) will now include slab-surface manufacturers and providers.00:13Select Interior Concepts Goes Private in $375 Million Deal 02:40Coverings Connected set for Nov. 17. 04:13SESA Adds Surface Manufacturers & Providers. 05:50Portobello Begins U.S. Factory Construction
Larger Natural-Stone Presence at TISE; Online Signup for 2022 TISE and Coverings; more
There's a plan to expand natural-stone exhibition at The International Surface Event; TISE and Coverings open online registrations for 2022 shows; Caesarstone issues a corporate-responsibility report.00:08TISE to Expand Natural-Stone Presence 02:25TISE Online Re 04:19Coverings Opens Online Registration and Honors Nominations 06:41Pink Stone Challenge in October 07:58NTCA Craftspersons of the Year 09:19Caesarstone Publishes ESG Report 11:22Cosentino City Center in Atlanta 12:05MSI Ac
Italy Hosts In-Person Trade Events; Cambria, Cosentino Settle Patent Suit; more.
Marmomac and Cersaie make successful in-person runs in Italy; Cambria, Cosentino settle patent lawsuit over quartz-surface veining; U.S. hard-surface imports take small dip in August; more.00:09Marmomac, Cersaie Return as In-Person Events 02:35Cambria, Cosentino Settle Patent Lawsuit03:45MSI Opens New St. Louis Facility04:41Caesarstone Connect™ Platform Launched06:42U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Dip in August 08:03Pre-Registration Begins for 2022 Xiamen Show 09:02Pearlman Group Acquires Excel Clea
Fab Worker in Federal Workers Comp Fraud; New Natural Stone CEU Course; more.
A South Carolina fabrication-shop worker gets a year in jail in federal workers-comp-fraud case; Natural Stone Institute rolls out new CEU course on countertops; granite shortages affect Jewish headstone rituals; more.This episode is underwritten by Marmomac, the premier natural-stone event held annually in Verona, Italy. Come join the industry for a return to face-to-face business on Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at https://www.marmomac.com/en/home-english/.00:09Fab Worker in Federal Disability Fraud01:48Sus
India Quartz Tariffs Upheld; KBIS Opens 2022 Registration; Colorado Mine Problem.
A federal appeals court denies an appeal concerning tariffs on paid quartz-surface samples from India; KBIS opens registration for its February 2022 show; and an alabaster/marble mine in Colorado fights the feds to continue operations.This episode is underwritten by Marmomac, the premier natural-stone event held annually in Verona, Italy. Come join the industry for a return to face-to-face business on Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at https://www.marmomac.com/en/home-english/.00:09India Quartz Tariff Upheld on
Strong Growth in U.S. Hardscaping Continues; Metcalf Top NTCA Honoree for 2021; more.
A Cleveland-based research group finds good growth in professional installations of hardscaping and outdoor-living areas, including plenty of natural stone. Also, MSI remains committed to fighting COVID-19, and Ed Metcalf is the Joe A. Tarver Award honoree from the National Tile Contractors Association.This episode is brought to you by Water Treatment Solutions, offering premium water recycling systems custom-built for the stone, concrete and glass industries. Join the growing group of satisfied
ASI Sells Quartz-Surface Division; Hard-Surface Imports Top $470 Million in June.
ASI sells engineered-stone division; June U.S. hard-surface imports top $470 million; granite quarry group aligns with Natural Stone Institute; more.This episode is brought to you by Water Treatment Solutions, offering premium water recycling systems custom-built for the stone, concrete and glass industries. Join the growing group of satisfied customers now recycling nearly 1.4 billion gallons of water every year. Find out more at www.watertreatmentonline.com.0:34ASI Sells Engineered-Stone Divis
SESA Chooses TISE/StonExpo; China Quartz Vanity Action
SESA chooses TISE/StonExpo as the main event for fabrication machinery & tooling. Also, a furniture importer apparently runs afoul of Chinese quartz-surface tariff enforcement; and ASI sells its engineered-stone division, including a new Breton®-equipped factory in India.This episode is underwritten by Marmomac, the premier natural-stone event held annually in Verona, Italy. Come join the industry for a return to face-to-face business on Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at https://www.marmomac.com/en/home-en
Mosaic Buys Walker Zanger, Opustone; Select Interiors Sheds RDS; Fabricator Trends Webinar July 28
Miami-based Mosaic Companies acquires distributors Walker Zanger and Opustone; Select Interiors Concepts sells off Residential Design Services; Park Industries Offers July 28 Market Trends Seminar.This episode is underwritten by Marmomac, the premier natural-stone event held annually in Verona, Italy. Come join the industry for a return to face-to-face business on Sept. 29-Oct. 2 at https://www.marmomac.com/en/home-english/.Radio Stone Update is presented on the first and third Wednesdays every
Turkish Tile Tariff Tussle Continues; Triton Acquires Stoneway; Are We Seeing a Slowdown in U.S. Imports?
Tile from Turkey avoids a 25% additional tariff, for now; Triton Stone Group picks up Stoneway Supply LLC; and April hard-surface imports could be sending a signal on the supply pipeline.This episode is brought to you by Water Treatment Solutions, offering premium water recycling systems custom-built for the stone, concrete and glass industries. Join the growing group of satisfied customers now recycling nearly 1.4 billion gallons of water every year. Find out more at www.watertreatmentonline.co
Australia Spends Millions on Silicosis Studies; Quartz-as-Glass Imports Targeted; more.
Australia will spend $4.6 million USD on research and treatment of silicosis caused by engineered-stone fabrication; U.S. customs officials investigate Chinese-quartz tariff evasion with glass-based slabs; the Natural Stone Institute takes on the ANSI stone sustainability standard; and more.This episode is brought to you by Water Treatment Solutions, offering premium water recycling systems custom-built for the stone, concrete and glass industries. Join the growing group of satisfied customers n
Vendors Form New Trade Group; U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Hit 2 1/2 Year High; Cambria Stops Copy; more.
Stone-machinery and -tooling vendors form new trade group; U.S. imports of hard surfaces are at the highest level since August 2018; Cambria halts sales of Brittanicca™ copy; and much, much more.This episode is underwritten by Marmomacc Talks, a digital event on May 24-27 that will involve top names in the sector in discussions and comparisons about the present and future of the natural stone industry. Learn more at https://www.marmomac.com/marmomac-talks.Radio Stone Update is presented on the s
Polycor to be Carbon-Neutral in 2025; SmartFair Draws 30,000+; Hard-Surface Imports Strong in February.
Polycor becomes the first natural-stone producer to pledge carbon-neutrality, with a 2025 target. Also, the online SmartFair claims more than 30,000 virtual attendees, and U.S. hard-surface imports remain robust in February.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.in.Radio Stone Update is pr
Turkey in Tax-Tariff Tussle; TISE Registration Now Online; Cosentino $ Good in 2020; more.
Turkish hard surfaces are caught in the crossfire of an international tax dispute; registration for June TISE is now open; Cosentino finances good in 2020; and more.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.in.Radio Stone Update is presented on the second and fourth Wednesdays every month at 9
TISE Set for June In-Person Event in Las Vegas; Biden Admin Defends Trump China Tariffs; more.
TISE will take place as an in-person event in June at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas; the Biden administration defends the 25% Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports; an NKBA study shows continued growth for the kitchen/bath market in 2021; and much, much more.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.
U.S. Customs Cites China/Malaysia Quartz Shippers; Caesarstone Expects Better in 2021.
The general 25% China goods tariff is challenged by 30 hard-surface-industry companies. Also: Cambria points U.S. customs officials to quartz-tariff evasion through Malaysia: there'll be no virtual trade-show floor for KBIS this year; Caesarstone expects to pick up quick from low performance in 4th-quarter 2020.Radio Stone Update is presented on the first and third Wednesdays every month at 9 a.m. everywhere on Earth with the latest news and insights in hard surfaces. Check our archives at
Hard Surfaces Elude "Airbus" Tariff; Glitch Kills KBIS Online Show Exhibits; more.
Natural stone and quartz surfaces from the European Union are safe from Airbus-related U.S. tariffs -- for now. Also KBIS pulls the plug on its online trade-show floor, and Coverings announced 2021's top tile trends.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.inRadio Stone Update is present
Coverings Gains July Show Partner; Minimal Loss in 2020 Hard-Surface Imports; more.
Coverings will split the hall in Orlando this July with the Wood Flooring Expo; U.S. hard-surface imports decline by only 3.8% in 2020; Park Industries and MSI plan a porcelain-fab expo in mid-March; and more.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.inRadio Stone Update is presented on the fi
No Vietnam tariffs ... for now; founder of Walker Zanger passes; more.
The U.S. fingers Vietnam for currency manipulation, but holds back on a unfair-trade tariff. Also, LOTTE expands its operations in Turkey, and an industry legend dies at age 93.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.inRadio Stone Update is presented on the first and third Wednesdays every m
New Vietnam Tariffs?; Caesarstone Acquires Omicron; more.
The U.S. government considers tariffs on Vietnamese goods in light of currency manipulation charges. Also, Caesarstone buys a U.S. stone supplier, and Coverings extends entry deadlines for its 2021 awards.This edition of Radio Stone Update is sponsored by Quantra, manufacturers of the world’s toughest, most beautiful quartz surfaces made with up-to-the-minute Italian technology… in yet another brand new state-of-the-art factory. http://www.quantra.inVietnam tariff considered https://www.stoneup
2020: The Year in Review for Hard Surfaces
K. Schipper and Emerson Schwartzkopf take a look back at the top news in hard surfaces this year, with follow-up reporting to bring everything up to date as 2020 winds down.This edition of Radio Stone Update is underwritten by TISE LIVE, the industry online event offering attendees the opportunity to connect and preview floor covering, stone, and tile products while enjoying creative, immersive experiences. Go to tiselive.com for more information..Radio Stone Update is presented on the second an
Silicosis Treatment Shows Promise; Coverings 2021 Moves to July; more.
An Australian treatment for silicosis is showing promise with early-stage patients. Also, 2021's trade-show schedule gets another juggle, as Coverings moves from April to July and Stone+tec decides to wait until 2022.Australian Doctors and Silicosis Breakthrough?https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-05/doctors-prince-charles-hospital-silicosis-treatment-breakthrough/12852290Coverings Moves to Julyhttps://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1957-coverings-2021-shifts-to-julySto
September Hard-Surface Imports Set Record; Silicosis Webinar on Nov. 17; 2021 Vitória Stone Show is Off.
September U.S. hard-surface imports reach record value; iQ Tools hosts silicosis webinar on Nov. 17; Xiamen on, Vitória off the 2021 show calendar; more.Silicosis Seminar on Nov. 17https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1952-silicosis-webinar-set-for-nov-17Xiamen Show Set for Next Mayhttps://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1953-xiamen-event-set-for-next-may2021 Vitória Stone Fair Canceledhttps://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1954-vit
Fabrication-Shop Homicide Trial; Coverings Connected on Nov. 18; more.
The trial continues about an October 2017 mass shooting at a Maryland fabrication shop; Coverings Connected sets second online round for Nov. 18; and more.Coverings Connected on Nov. 18https://www.coverings.com/connected/?utm_source=coverings&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nov_cc_1b&_zs=6FIGX&_zl=rjfI2 Caesarstone finishes Lioli deal https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1942-caesarstone-completes-lioli-dealFabrication-shop homicide trial continues https://www.balt
KBIS Goes Online Only for 2021; Hard-Surface Imports Up Again
KBIS calls off its in-person Orlando event next February; August U.S. Hard-Surface Imports up nearly 15% from July; Dekton® Gains Carbon-Neutral Status; more.KBIS Going Online Only in 2021https://kbis.com/kbis-2021-all-virtual/Marmomac Online Draws Nearly 5,000https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1938-international-crowd-joins-marmomac-onlineSalem Rebrands, Restructures for Glass Markethttps://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1936-salem-rebrands-and-restructur
Cosentino to Expand Midwest Operations; NTCA Tilesetter Winners; more.
Cosentino plans to enlarge U.S. Midwest operations with new digs near Chicago's O'Hare International; the National Tile Contractors Association honors two tilesetters for porcelain-slab and natural-stone work; Natural Stone Institute pitches in on the 30th R.I.S.E. home for special-needs veterans and first responders.Cosentino Midwest https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/people-n-places/1929-cosentino-enhancing-midwest-distributionNTCA Tilesetters https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-inf
U.S. Hard-Surface Imports Up; Caesarstone Adds Porcelain Producer; more.
U.S. hard-surface imports make a major step up in their own COVID-19 recovery; Caesarstone buys a majority share in a porcelain-slab plant; NSF's new standards need your attention; and more.Caesarstone Buys Lioli Majority Sharehttps://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1919-caesarstone-buying-porcelain-slab-producerNatural Stone Update Virtual Stone Summit https://www.stoneworld.com/stone-industry-education/septemberKBIS Moving Ahead, Opens Registration for February Show https://
NEWS: TISE delayed to June 2021; Coverings Connected Begins; Majestic on Inc. 5000
TISE moves down the 2021 calendar from January to June, while Coverings Connected begins a three-episode run before its April event in Orlando. Plus, Majestic Kitchen & Bath Creations make the Inc. 5000, and learn about using natural stone around the pool.Coverings Connected Begins Today: https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1915-coverings-connected-expands-through-early-2021TISE Delayed Until June 2021: https://www.intlsurfaceevent.com/en/home.htmlMajestic Kitchen &a
NEWS: Hard-Surface Imports Improve in June; Updates on Xiamen, KBIS Events; more.
The 2020 Xiamen Stone Fair, twice-delayed, is finally off. U.S. hard-surface imports in June made a slight improvement from May, but still lags by a third from last year. And, there's more.Xiamen Stone Fair Won't Occur in 2020NKBA Moving Ahead with On-Site 2021 EventAmendola New North American V.P. for NeolithNancy Busch New ISFA Executive DirectorRobertson new Manufacturing VP for Majestic Marble and Granite Inc. Celebrate 30th Year MSI Surfaces Opens Philadelphia-Area FacilityRadio S
NEWS: Fabricator Webinar Next Week; New LATICRETE CEO; more.
The latest podcast from Stone Update includes details on a free two-day webinar for fabricators on July 29-30, as well as name and logo changes with several industry leaders, a new CEO at LATICRETE, and an audio sneak of the next edition of Stone Update Magazine.Fabricator Webinar: https://www.stoneworld.com/stone-industry-education/oregonNew Name -- BB Industries: https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1894-braxton-bragg-llc-changes-name-to-bb-industries New Logo -- Breton: https
NEWS: Covid-19 & Remodeling; Marmomac Going Online Only; more.
Covid-19 effects on residential remodeling: NKBA study: https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/latest-stuff/1891-residential-kitchen-bath-market-130-8-billion-in-2020 (Cersaie, Hardscape North America stop 2020 shows:https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1892-cersaie-hardscape-north-america-cancel-2020-showsNeolith's Carbon-Neutral Status: https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1890-neolith-reaches-carbon-neutral-statusCosentino North America’s new West C
NEWS: Silicosis Worsens Away from Exposure; new Laminam logo; more.
Underwritten in June by Cloud Xiamen Stone Fair, the new 24/7 way to connect with the stone industry worldwide.Spanish Study Shows Continuing Silicosis Effect in Engineered-Stone Workers https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1882-laminam-debuts-new-logoMarmomac “Re-start”in 2020 https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1877-marmomac-re-start-still-on-the-2020-calendarPearlman, Stone Service Group Hires https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/company-insider/1878
NEWS: Slow Global Growth for Countertops; Australia Gains on Silicosis; more.
Underwritten in June by Cloud Xiamen Stone Fair, the new 24/7 way to connect with the stone industry worldwide.Global Countertop Study: https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/latest-stuff/1873-covid-19-affecting-global-countertop-demandAustralia State Registers Half of Stone Workforce for Silicosis Monitoring https://slabnsheet.com/silica-health-assessments-pass-halfway-target/Why So Much of a White Look in Quartz? Caesarstone’s Elizabeth Margles Explains: http://magazine.stonemag.com/march-apri
NEWS: Xiamen Online Show, New Pearlman CEO, more.
Underwritten in May by Hard-Surface Report, your best source for U.S. import data.Xiamen goes online for its cloud show, plus other Covid-19 updates and a new CEO for the parent of GranQuartz and Regent Stone.China Show Online https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1864-china-stone-event-goes-online-in-juneCersaie Delay https://www.stoneupdate.com/events/shows-seminars-workshops/1859-cersaie-moves-event-to-novemberNew Pearlman CEO https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/people
NEWS: Tariffs, U.S. Fiandre Slabs, Coverings Connected
Underwritten in May by Hard-Surface Report, your best source for U.S. import data.A review of the proposed tariffs on quartz slabs from India and Turkey, plus news on U.S.-made porcelain slab and an online Coverings trade event.Links for this episode:India-Turkey quartz tariffs: https://www.stoneupdate.com/news-info/latest-stuff/1851-india-turkey-quartz-surface-tariffs-8Unique Stone Concepts tariff bill: https://slabnsheet.com/nicklaus-coronavirus-and-trade-battle-are-double-whammy-for-st-louis-