Alpha Professional Tools® is pleased to announce that we have hired Alexander Makin to represent us in the South territory effective October 23, 2023. He will service Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Southern Nevada, Texas and Utah.

Patterns, textures, elongated subway tile and stone-look surfaces continue to take center stage in design. Manufacturers of tile and quartz continue to utilize advanced technology to output high-quality products. Here is a look at several of the latest product introductions.

Virginia Tile, a premier destination for top-tier tile, design and installation solutions, is delighted to introduce the newest additions to its esteemed commercial team, Stu Kinney and Bradley Walworth. Both seasoned professionals in the industry, Stu and Bradley bring a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence that will propel Virginia Tile to new heights.

Moderno Porcelain Works announces the opening of their newest location in Nashville, TN. The official grand opening event was held on October 26th and signifies another milestone as it marks the 15th location in the United States as part of an ambitious national expansion efforts.

International Product Assurance Laboratories (IPA Laboratories), has been honored with the American Council of Independent Laboratories (ACIL) Customer Quality Service Award. IPA Laboratories is one of ten independent laboratories recognized with this award for their exceptional commitment to quality service. Additionally, IPA Laboratories received a Special Recognition Award as one of the top three laboratories for timeliness. 

MAPEI Corporation celebrated the expansion of its existing Calhoun, GA, facility with an open house event held on October 20, 2023, with customers, employees and other guests. The remodeled existing 210,000-square-foot (19 510-m2) facility now features an additional 45,000 square feet (4 181 m2) of production space as well as an additional 20,000 square feet (1 858 m2) of office space.

Design Industry for Peace is holding an online auction from November 7^th until November 17^th that will feature an outstanding array of donated products and services from leading designers and brands across the industry that will benefit Israeli communities in need.

The Natural Stone Institute has provided natural stone and fabrication services for two homes with the Gary Sinise Foundation through its R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program. The Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program builds 100% mortgage-free specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans and first responders.

The Crossville® Native Metal collection, one of its new carbon-neutral porcelain tile series, has been recognized with a Planet Positive Award. The Crossville Native Metal collection was recognized as the winner in the Surfaces, Tiles and Materials category.

Coverings, the premier international ceramic tile and natural stone exhibition and conference in North America, has launched the official openings for event registration, discounted hotel booking options and award program submissions for Coverings 2024, which will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) in Atlanta, GA, April 22 to 25, 2024.