On August 5, 2009 in Chicago, IL, Daltile teamed up with the Marble Institute of America (MIA) and Stone World magazine to host an important workshop for fabricators. The workshop was titled "Business Success for Fabricators – Don't Let Revenue Slip Away," which is a timely subject during this down economy. Nearly 40 people attended, including fabricators from Illinois and Wisconsin, and other stone industry professionals.

G.K. Naquin, co-owner of Stone Interiors North America in the Southeast, was the presenter of the workshop. Naquin has 36 years of experience in the natural stone industry and understands the business from the inside out. In addition, he serves on the MIA Board of Directors and is a member of the Natural Stone Council.

The seminar covered these important topics:  

• Analyzing the cost of doing business
• Exploring alternative product lines
• Showcasing techniques and tips for templating, fabrication and installation
• Sharing management tips that drive successful stone companies
• Highlighting the value of becoming an accredited natural stone fabricator
• Networking with equipment and stone slab suppliers

The workshop also touched on the importance of diversifying operations for future growth. For example, a fabricator could focus on an area of expertise such as price, service, product, experience or access to differentiate themselves from their competition. Diversification also includes aspects like exploration, education, preparation, implementation and modification to be successful in the natural stone business.

In addition, the seminar provided an open forum for fabricators to share their concerns. This segment was beneficial because participants could speak freely and candidly about issues they are facing in the industry.

For more information about the workshop or other stone industry topics, please contact the Marble Institute of America at www.marble-institute.com, Stone World magazine at www.stoneworld.com or Daltile at www.daltilestone.com.