The show featured a total of 1,445 exhibitors, including 480 international firms from 52 different nations. The total for the international sector represents an increase of 14.3% over 2000, and participation increased by 147 companies overall. Although attendance figures were not released as of press time, Veronafiere, the event organizer, estimates that the total was over 50,000, despite a drop-off in visitors from the U.S. and the Middle East. In previous years, North American attendance at the event had increased significantly, and this trend is expected to resume in 2002.
Stone suppliers used the fair to showcase a broad range of products, including blocks, slabs, tiles and specialty work such as statuary and furnishings. And in addition to introducing new products and design patterns -- including several varieties of antiqued mosaics -- stone suppliers also used the event to promote existing products. Once again, natural stone with an aged look ruled the day, such as materials furnished with a "brushed" finish. And to better illustrate the "brushing" technique to visitors, several exhibitors were prepared to offer a detailed explanation of how the finish is created, complete with the actual brushes used during the process.