At FEI Group Annual Conference, Economy and AI Take Center Stage

Phoenix, Arizona, October 22, 2026—FEI Group kicked off its three-day annual conference in Phoenix with a discussion of the economic outlook, artificial intelligence and the challenges facing the building products industry as companies prepare for 2027.

FEI is a major national network and buying alliance for independent contractors and showrooms in the flooring, cabinetry, countertop, decorative plumbing and exterior building products segments.

FEI president Graham Howerton moderated an opening panel featuring Benjamin Liebert of Shaw Industries, Scott Maslowski of Daltile, Stanley Bastek of Atlas Roofing and Dana Hudson of MasterBrand. Rather than focusing on when the housing market might recover, the discussion centered on how companies are navigating current conditions and positioning themselves for future growth.

“We’re not planning for a recovery,” said Liebert. “I think all of us in this room are sick of talking about a recovery because, this is year four of consecutive declines in demand. At some point, this is just the market. This is just where we are.”

Liebert said Shaw is focusing on operational fundamentals and developing base, upside and downside business scenarios rather than banking on an economic rebound. He encouraged attendees to make investments that will strengthen their businesses regardless of market conditions.

The panel also explored the growing role of AI in business operations. Hudson discussed MasterBrand’s use of AI to streamline processes, manage complex data and explore manufacturing efficiencies. However, panelists cautioned against overlooking the human element as companies embrace new technology.

“If you’re not investing as much into your people and developing your leadership skills in your organization as you are in AI and technology, that’s the miss,” said Bastek.

Supply-chain pressures, rising transportation costs and the importance of accurate forecasting were also discussed. Maslowski highlighted challenges facing domestic and international freight operations, emphasizing the need for closer communication between manufacturers and their customers.

Looking ahead, Maslowski encouraged attendees to embrace change without abandoning the fundamentals that built their businesses. “I’m not a big believer that you need to disrupt your entire business, but you do have to lean in, remember your legacy, remember why you’re here today,” he said.

The afternoon also featured a trade show event, providing attendees an opportunity to connect with suppliers and discuss business opportunities.

As part of the meeting, FEI announced that its 2027 annual conference will take place in Aventura, Florida, October 20-22.

The conference continues today with educational sessions and additional networking opportunities. 

The FEI group was co-founded in 1998 as Floor Expo by Dave Gheesling and Andy Hogan. It started as a buying group for flooring contractors focused on the builder and multifamily sectors. It is now part of Nationwide Marketing Group backed by Gridiron Capital.

Pic, L to R: Graham Howerton, Benjamin Leibert, Stanley Basek, Dana Howard, Stanley Maslowski