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ISFA UPDATES
Showcase Your Brand and Connect with Industry Leaders! This isn’t your typical trade show setup. The Expo Gallery at the ISFA Annual Conference is an interactive space designed for meaningful connections. It’s your chance to:
Build relationships, spark valuable conversations, and position your brand where the industry’s leaders gather.
Want to expand your presence? Take the stage and share your expertise with a highly engaged, industry-focused audience.
Fabricators from the U.S. and Canada Gather for Education, Networking & a Shop Tour at Granit Design
ISFA recently hosted fabricators from across North America for a dynamic event featuring education, networking, and a shop tour at Granit Design. In partnership with Baca Systems, Biesse, Cosentino, and Park Industries, attendees explored key industry topics like sustainability, silica safety, market trends, and business development — plus got an inside look at automation and culture in action.
“This is the reason I’m a part of ISFA,” said Omar Chahin of GMD Surfaces. “The ability to talk with others, learn, and visit shops helps make me better.”
At Coverings 2025, ISFA members were celebrated for their exceptional leadership and contributions to the surface industry. Travis McDermott, President of McDermott Top Shop and ISFA Board Vice President, was honored as a Coverings Rock Star. This recognition comes as his company marks an incredible milestone — 30 years in business. Travis was joined by his father, Ron McDermott, to celebrate both the award and the legacy of their family-owned business, which has thrived through decades of dedication and innovation in the industry.
In addition, Anthony Milia, Owner of Milia Marketing, received a Rock Star award for his impactful digital marketing strategies that have empowered businesses across the surface industry.
ISFA Membership Director Heather Duve also took the stage at Coverings, where she shared how ISFA is committed to supporting fabricators. “It was an incredible opportunity to speak on the fabricator’s stage and highlight how ISFA helps fabricators grow through education, networking, and resources,” Duve said. “It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that brings our industry together to share knowledge and foster collaboration.”
These recognitions demonstrate the continued leadership and innovation within the ISFA community, and we’re proud to celebrate these remarkable accomplishments.
Silica dust kills. Silica dust can lead to the lung disease, silicosis, and irreversible health problems. Too many fabricators are still ignoring the risks — and with Mother’s Day around the corner, it’s a powerful reminder that every employee deserves to make it home to the people who love them.
This stops now.
ISFA has a solution — and it’s already part of membership.
No more excuses. No more delays. Protect your team. Protect their families. Get your crew trained today.
INDUSTRY NEWS
How Fabricators are Adapting to Global Disruptions and Tariffs
The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) is keeping members informed on the evolving state of the global surface fabrication industry. With the market—including natural stone, quartz, and engineered surfaces—valued at $50 billion USD and projected to grow 4–6% annually, challenges like supply chain disruptions and new U.S. tariffs are reshaping the landscape.
On Thursday, May 15, our friends at LX Hausys are hosting their Stadium Showcase at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons.
What’s happening:
Bonus: Lunch and parking are complimentary.
If you’re in the area — or need a great excuse for a visit — this is an event you won’t want to miss.
LOTTE Chemical is excited to announce that EKO Stone will now be responsible for distributing Radianz Quartz across the Midwest U.S. market. This new partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies, combining EKO Stone’s industry-leading distribution capabilities with Radianz’s superior engineered quartz surfaces.
FEATURED ARTICLES
In Section: Education Connection
By Mark Allen Roberts I enjoyed attending the Las Vegas TISE show and meeting many industry vendors and fabricators. I spoke on some panels, shared advice to grow sales, and had great conversations with business owners. One opportunity I discovered is that while many fabricators and industry suppliers have financial plans for 2025, they lack strategic growth plans. One business owner shared that their business was down in 2024 to $7.8 million, but they plan to hit $8.2 million in 2025. However, they did not have a strategy to achieve their targeted growth. As one fabricator said, "I am too busy working in my business to work on my business."
ISFA EVENTS
June 11-12 | Pompano Beach, Florida
The demand for porcelain fabrication training is greater than ever, and now’s your chance to get hands-on experience with one of the industry’s fastest-growing materials.
Join us for ISFA’s Porcelain Fabrication Training, a practical, introductory workshop designed for surfacing professionals who want to sharpen their skills or expand their shop’s capabilities. You’ll learn:
Whether you’re exploring porcelain for the first time or looking to improve your technique, this is the training you’ve been waiting for.
November 4-6 | Phoenix, Arizona
Join us for the 2025 ISFA Annual Conference, set against the beautiful desert backdrop of Arizona. This year’s theme, Renewed Connections. Advancing the Path to Success, focuses on growth, innovation, and shaping the future of surface fabrication.
Connect with leaders and peers from across the country through engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and industry insights. With a three-track education system, there’s something for everyone on your team — whether you’re looking to learn, grow, or recharge.
Mark your calendar — registration opens this June!
Interested in sponsoring? Contact us to learn more.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
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Porcelain Fabrication Training
