Retail Observer

DISH – a new three-stage show feature – offered show goers a first look at the newest colors, textures and surface trends for 2020 and beyond, with featured materials by Shaw Floors, Anderson Tuftex, CoreTec and Iris US. The vignettes were created by TV personality and interior designer Jennifer Farrell. Craig Conover from Bravo TV's Southern Charm provided pillows from his Sewing Down South lifestyle brand for the vignettes. Both celebs made numerous appearances conversing with attendees at the Hub. To the delight of the crowd, the Natural Stone Institute Women in Stone group participated in the Amazing Race, an interactive journey through the Natural Stone Pavilion. Participants grouped in teams and met challenges, learned natural stone trivia and networked. Vendors and exhibitors were ready with clues about resources and new products, and what makes them special in this evolving industry. Along their journey, the women also had to navigate a few roadblocks. It was a fun new way for participants to engage in education and networking. The National Installer of the Year Competition had its second stellar year and proved an irresistible draw, as attendees kept returning to watch the competitors' progress over the days of the event. The winners' ceremony on the show's final day drew a great supportive crowd. Recapping TISE 2020, show director Dana Hicks said: "The show floor was busy, busy, busy, all three days of the event. Everyone we spoke to, from the exhibitors and associations to the attendees, were amazed by the number of people, the quality of the connections, the products they were discovering, the education offerings – just an incredible event that brought the whole industry together once again!" Overall attendance was up 3% over TISE 2019, and it was clear on the show floor and to all those in attendance that the industry was there in full force and eager to find the resources for the new year. The sales office on the show floor was packed daily with exhibitors, as 80% of next year's space was sold, with some returnees booking larger spaces. In addition, companies not currently exhibiting for TISE 2020 came to the sales office to inquire about booking for the following year, a clear testament to the strength in attendance and the positive experience they gleaned from the show floor. Please plan to join us at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas for TISE 2021. Education sessions will take place Jan. 25-28 and the exhibits will be open Jan. 26-28. We look forward to seeing you there. RO

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