Industry Insights

RSS

Massachusetts health officials issued a safety alert to stone countertop fabrication employers after confirming the state's first case of silicosis in a worker in the industry, the Department of Public Health announced Dec. 9.

The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) announced the hiring of Aaron Davis as its new Chief of Education, a newly created executive leadership position designed to accelerate the IPAF’s national growth strategy and workforce development initiatives.

With nearly a week until the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), attendees are packing their schedules to discover the industry’s best and biggest introductions of 2026. Topping the list are new-to-KBIS, emerging and international exhibitors -- brands influencing the future of the industry -- at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, from February 17 to 19, 2026.

Learn how to create a sales and marketing system for your stone shop that will support predictable growth and drive revenue.

A group of countertop fabricators discussed the challenges and opportunities of offering repair services during a recent industry roundtable discussion, identifying workforce training, pricing strategy and the growing complications of porcelain countertops as key concerns.

Hardscape North America (HNA) has opened its hotel room block for HNA 2026, taking place October 21-23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.

Tony Malisani of Malisani Inc. addressed a group on “Natural Stone vs. Mnc.anmade Materials.”

LATICRETE, a leader in globally proven construction solutions, will preview its new HYDRO BAN^® Bonding Flange Drains and coordinating Point Drain Grates at the 2026 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), February 17–19 in Orlando, FL. These redesigned drainage solutions, set to launch in April, will be unveiled alongside the brand’s full line of shower installation solutions, reinforcing its position as a single-source partner for high-performance systems.

This year-long, in-person training clinic is designed to educate contractors and installers on best practices when using components of Schönox® and the Sika® Secure System. These best practices will focus on flooring installation solutions and industry standards that pertain to subfloor surface preparation, moisture mitigation, acoustical control, flooring adhesives, and tile setting materials. 

The International Surface Fabricators Association is preparing for a transformative 2026, with plans to hire new staff, launch a shop accreditation program and pursue ANSI developer status as the organization works to establish itself as the leading voice for countertop fabricators nationwide.