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Amid challenges, freedom empowers self-determination, resilience and unity. A visit to a Utah county fair reminded contributing editor Sam Allman why America—messy, diverse hopeful—is still worth believing in.
Handling angry customer calls with empathy and training is key to turning complaints into loyalty. Frontline service, cross-training and culture-building are vital tools for transforming service breakdowns into long-term success.
Tile industry faces uncertainty amid tariffs on imports from China, India, Mexico and others. Domestic makers like Panariagroup USA see opportunity to gain market share by focusing on innovation and efficiency.
Flooring innovation is reshaping the industry. From Cali’s NaturMatte laminate to CFL’s acoustic tech, Mohawk’s Color Pulse, Shaw’s EcoWorx Resilient and Tarkett’s circular Mycocycle project, new designs boost performance, durability and sustainability.
Colleges are investing in modern, high-performing facilities to attract students who now view education as a major consumer decision. Flooring plays a key role, with demand rising for durable, sustainable, and visually appealing products.
The LVT market is shifting toward higher-quality, thicker products like WPC and hybrids as SPC faces quality issues. Domestic production is growing amid tariffs, but Asia dominates low-end. Innovation and premium offerings are driving new growth.
Cevisama 2025 drew 70,000 visitors to Valencia, showcasing Spain’s $5.1 billion tile industry. From retro ’70s vibes to large-format slabs and cutting-edge digital finishes, Spanish tile impressed with innovation, artistry and global export strength.
The 2025 Fuse Spark Awards spotlighted top flooring projects. Winners included Flooring Resources with J+J Flooring and Tarkett, Gannon & Company with Daltile and Mohawk, and GP Flooring Solutions with Bentley and Kahrs.
Kemp Harr highlights a shifting market mood—post-election optimism has turned to tariff uncertainty. Still, economic fundamentals remain strong and commercial firms are growing. Now is the time to plan, not panic.
Herb Upton reflects on his 31-year Shaw career, from shift supervisor to SVP of product and innovation. He credits mentors, faith, and family, values curiosity and hard work, and urges the industry to better communicate flooring’s value.