VERONA, ITALY - The International Natural Stone and Technology Exhibition, scheduled at VeronaFiere from October 5 to 8, 2006, is fully booked and 60 companies are currently on the waiting list. For the first time, Hall 7 hosts a unique exhibition - the largest of its kind ever held - dedicated to processing tools. New initiatives in the “Marble Art Culture” section welcome young architects and students, new communication media and the avant-garde of Spanish architecture.

The event - with the patronage of the National Council of Architects, Planners, Landscape Designers and Conservation Experts and the Ministry of Production Activity - confirms its role as the world landmark for business in stone material and processing technology sectors: the bridge between the world of design and the market, reports show organizers.

Last year's event attracted 1,450 companies (675 international from 51 countries) and 62,048 visitors from 116 countries - as well as 300 accredited journalists. A further increase in attendance is expected this year, especially on an international scale - thanks to “group shows” from Turkey, Spain, Palestine, Egypt, Morocco, Brazil, Argentina, Taiwan, China and Germany.

The 41st edition of Marmomacc is highlighted by several innovations: the inauguration of two new halls hosting companies in natural stone, finished product and design sectors; Hall 7 - the largest ever of its kind - will host for the first time tools, abrasives and chemical products for processing.

The “Marble Art Culture” section welcomes cultural initiatives focusing on the use of stone in contemporary architecture involving a guided itinerary embracing the stands of companies working closely with design and interior design studios.

Marmomacc is now an official member of the Marble Institute of America (MIA), and it is recognized as an “education provider” (training) by American Institute of Architects (AIA), the association whose members include mostly U.S. architects. American architects, as of 2006, may refer to the online course detailing the use of natural stone through the AECDaily site (www.aecdaily.com/sponsor/veronafiere).

Marmomacc has equally consolidated its relationships with RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) and RAIC (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada), whereby every year architects have the chance to attend theoretical and practical lessons, experience first-hand visits to several quarries and watch stone material extraction processes and working methods.

Links

• AECDaily site