Dalton—When unexpected medical challenges strike, the financial burden can be overwhelming. That’s where the Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF) steps in. Just ask Randi, a dedicated flooring worker who faced a cancer diagnosis and mounting bills.
Randi—a dedicated 20-year veteran of the flooring industry—was diagnosed with Stage 1 squamous cell carcinoma in 2021. Despite surgery and radiation, Randi was faced with a recurrence in 2024. As the weight of mounting medical bills grew heavier, the FCIF stepped in to help ease the burden by covering essential medical expenses during this difficult time. “Thank you to FCIF for being a hand of hope as I continue to face this battle,” Randi said.
Free FCIF webinar
To ensure more industry professionals can access this support, FCIF is hosting a free webinar: “Unlocking FCIF’s Financial Assistance.” This informative session seeks to provide insights into how flooring employees and their families can receive financial aid during medical crises.
Sunrise, Fla.—Masters Building Products, a distributor of high-quality flooring and molding solutions, recently appointed Shane Calloway as its new chief executive officer. The appointment became effective on March 10, 2025. Calloway succeeded Juan Molina, who will continue to serve as an active member of the board.
“We are thrilled to welcome Shane Calloway to Masters Building Products,” said Andres Abad, president of Masters Building Products. “His vision and extensive industry experience align perfectly with our mission to deliver top-tier flooring, molding, outdoor and building product solutions, along with exceptional service. We are confident he will lead Masters into an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.”
Calloway brings 28 years of experience in the flooring industry and is said to bring a proven track record of driving growth, operational excellence and customer-focused innovation. Prior to joining Masters Building Products, he also served as president of Regal Craft—where he successfully launched a new company focused on producing OEM and private label programs for national manufacturers and regional flooring distributors.
Before Regal Craft, Calloway served as president and CEO of Swiff-Train Company, where he is said to have led strategic initiatives that expanded market reach and strengthened industry partnerships. Swiff-Train was then acquired in 2022 by UCX—formerly known as Belknap-Haines Company.
“I am honored to join Masters Building Products and excited about the opportunities ahead,” Calloway said. “The company has built a strong reputation for quality, service and innovation in the flooring and molding industry. I look forward to working with the talented team to drive further success and deliver value to our customers and partners.”
Under Calloway’s leadership, Masters Building Products said it plans to continue to pursue strategic growth initiatives, enhance its product offerings and deepen relationships with customers and suppliers.
In a market that remains ever competitive, it’s imperative for business leaders to expand their knowledge. One way to do this, according to many, is to read content that can help provide insight and tools to better both your personal and professional life.
FCNews reached out to five industry leaders to gather their top picks in books today. Here’s what they’ve read (and learned):
“Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life” by Marshall B. Rosenberg
“The book has been around awhile, but I think it’s needed now more than ever. It isn’t news to anyone that we live in a climate filled with rampant villainization and a cacophony of rage. This book was incredibly insightful and has helped me in how I communicate in work, family, extended family and public settings. It’s been particularly beneficial in reframing how I approach difficult conversations. I’m still learning, but it’s taught me better listening and communication skills. It’s a book that I still refer back to quite often. I probably need to reread it every few years just to keep those lessons intact.”
— Chris Ogden, owner, QFloors
“Nexus” by Yuval Noah Harari
“I’ve been reading everything from Yuval Harari since I first read Sapiens in 2017 and started thinking differently about the ways humans connected over time and the role that has on our identity and groups. As for “Nexus,” it evaluates the incredibly interesting role AI and other forms of non-human intelligence will play in the future of information/misinformation/disinformation. As humans divide from one centrally agreed upon truth—on a wide variety of subjects—how will we continue to relate to one another? There are tremendous applications of this question and these topics to business and personal interest.”
— AJ Warne, vice president of sales and marketing, Abraham Linc
“Can’t Hurt Me: Master your Mind and Defy the Odds” by David Goggins
“This book really inspired me to look at a negative as a positive. No matter how many times we get knocked down or the outcome isn’t what we expected, you must keep pushing forward and hit your goal. This is a book of triumph over the mind and negative life events—touching on how strong the mind is and how we can overcome our different challenges with success.”
— Typhannie Harker, owner, Carpeting by Mike
“Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care and Social Class ” by Rob Henderson
“I’ve always been attracted to real life stories that take you from strife and struggle to hope, resolve and triumph. [This book] reinforced what I already believed—that politicians and the ‘elite intelligentsia’ at our universities are out of touch and their policies don’t really help those most in need.”
— Olga Robertson, president, FCA Network
“Uncommon Greatness: Five Fundamentals to Transform your Leadership ” by Mark Miller
“I can say that the reading of the book ‘Uncommon Greatness’ has been in conjunction with the SEAL (Seeking Excellence as Leaders) leadership and certification program the WFCA offers. I am taking the course along with the other nine leaders at our company. There are five fundamentals of leadership shared in the book: See the future; engage and develop others; reinvent continuously; value results and relationships; and embody a leader’s heart. With each of these there are real life examples of people who have exemplified this in their personal life or professional careers—the best of these is Bill Campbell in his manifesto while working as the CEO of Intuit. He summarized his leadership philosophy in a few words, ‘People are the foundation of any company’s success.’ The cost [of the book] is minimal considering the lifelong impact it has on both your personal and professional life.”
Clemson, S.C.—The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) recently honored Tennessee sixth congressional district representative John Rose as a “friend of the U.S. tile industry.” A specially designed ceramic tile noting the designation was presented to Congressman Rose in his Washington office.
“We appreciate the important contributions made by Representative Rose in support of the many tile producers in his district, in the State of Tennessee and in the nation,” said Eric Astrachan, executive director of Tile Council of North America. “He has taken the time to get to know the manufacturing base in his district, meet the people who work there and understand their concerns. Today, more so than ever, tile producers and Tennessee clay suppliers—and the families who rely on their success, face unprecedented dumping and unfair trade practices from overseas. Representative Rose is pushing for a level playing field and we in the North American tile industry applaud his efforts.”
The congressman concurred that the ceramic market should stay available to those in the state. “Tennessee jobs are at risk due to unfair and uncompetitive trade practices in the ceramic tile market,” Rose said. “Tennessee’s manufacturers deserve a fair shake on the world stage. Foreign countries all too often subsidize and dump ceramic tile into the U.S., upending the domestic market and hemming in American manufacturers. The Department of Commerce should do the right thing and use the tools at its disposal to aggressively counteract these nefarious trade practices to protect Tennessee jobs and domestic manufacturing.”
Orlando, Fla.—Coverings, North America’s largest international tile and stone conference, has revealed a select preview of new tile and stone products alongside a sneak peek of materials and tools to be unveiled at this year’s show. Coverings 2025 is set to take place from April 29-May 2 at the Orange County Convention Center here.
Coverings 2025 will be anchored by three primary sponsor pavilions—Ceramics of Italy, Tile Council of North America and Tile of Spain—offering displays of tile and stone that aim to highlight luxury design, performance and sustainability. Showgoers will be able to learn from leading industry experts from around the world while venturing through an immersive nine-mile showcase of the latest materials, equipment, tools and innovations.
Here’s a few of the newest tile and stone products to be featured:
Aeterna Sintered Slabs: a new premium line from Anatolia works to combine cutting-edge technology with the beauty of natural stone yet also feature contemporary design. With 60 colors and an array of surface finishes, Aeterna sintered slabs work to meet the design needs of a variety of projects—including countertops, facades, intricate details, kitchens, bathrooms and interior floors. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #3215.
Luci d’Oro: a new collection from Tagina S.P.A employs the innovative “Diamond Shard Effect” technology to fashion white, gray and gold veins. The collection is designed to evoke mystery and wonder as it aims to transforms surfaces into works of art that commands attention. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #937.
Sociale: a new porcelain tile collection by Crossville—an AHF Products Brand—features six natural stone looks that are intended to exude quiet elegance. Sociale is meant to be visually appealing yet practical, featuring Crossville’s new FeatherSoft finish for touchable surfaces and an exterior finish for inside-out flexibility. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #2600.
Select new installation materials, tools and technology products to see this year:
DC Smart Advance Wet Saw: a new launch from RUBI Tools USA, this is said to be a partner to precision by adapting its performance to various job needs. With intelligent automatic control, the machine instantly analyzes the blade’s needs according to the type and thickness of the material. The DC Smart Advance Wet Saw also offers four speed and finish levels. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #3640.
Gauged Porcelain Tile Panel Solutions: a new product collection introduced by QEP Co., Inc., these solutions are meant to revolutionize the handling and cutting of large tile panels in an effort to provide a faster, more innovative approach to large panel installation. The collection includes the GPTP Rail Cutting System, folding worktable, carrying system, transport cart and vibrating suction cup. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #2630.
WrinGo Electric Sponge Wringer: a new offering from Russo Trading Company, this product is meant to deliver a consistently damp sponge for efficient grout cleaning while reducing hand fatigue. Its patented squirrel cage design agitates the sediment from sponges before sending them through the ringer; the solid nylon rollers extract the maximum amount of water, resulting in a damp sponge that eliminates pigment washout. Coverings 2025 exhibit booth #3140.
These and thousands of other products can be seen in-person next month at Coverings 2025. Register here.
Chicago—NeoCon, the premier event for commercial design, has opened registration for its expansive on-site and virtual conference program. Embracing this year’s theme—”Design Ahead”—the NeoCon team has worked to create a slate of thought leadership and professional training, offering attendees access to global powerhouses that address the entire contract design ecosystem.
The lineup of keynotes featured presentations, CEU sessions, short-form conversations, workshops and insider tours promises a rich educational experience—spanning topics that include AI, circularity, decarbonization, design poetics, color therapy and neuroscience. The 56th edition of the show is poised to inspire a more sustainable, innovative and inclusive future.
“This year’s program is deeply rooted in cross-industry exchange,” said Nubia Henderson, director of programming. “Collaboration is a central touchpoint, not only reflected in the heart of our content but in the diverse and emerging voices we’ve brought together. Partnering with our valued industry associations, media partners and thought leaders, we’ve curated a comprehensive platform of meaningful dialogue and actionable insights for the NeoCon community.”
Three visionary keynote speakers will headline the 2025 conference, each intending to demonstrate design and technology’s profound ability to drive powerful change. On Monday, June 9, tech executive Annie Jean-Baptiste is set to kick off the series with “Designing for Global Innovation,” presented by IIDA. She will navigate the impact of inclusive, human-centered design across cultures and how lived experiences spark game-changing ideas.
On Tuesday, June 10, acclaimed British design critic and author Alice Rawsthorn will present “Design as an Attitude,” hosted by ASID, intended to offer a thought-provoking look into design as an eclectic, open-ended catalyst of positive progress.
The program will conclude on Wednesday, June 11, with Chris Barton, founder of Shazam. His keynote “Bring Impossible Ideas to Life,” presented by BIFMA, will share lessons on persistence, possibility, creativity and innovation.
Featured presentations unite design pioneers with esteemed experts
Building on the show’s dynamic keynote series, this year’s seven featured presentations bring together an esteemed roster of industry leaders, designers and innovators. Experts from top firms—including HOK, Gensler, Partners by Design and CannonDesign—will join renowned specialists on workplace strategy, neuroscience, diversity, equity and inclusion for lively panels and discussions. Topics spotlight neuroinclusion, the evolution of public space and the intersection of science and design, including insights on fractal-based stress reduction and neurodivergent workforce support. Attendees can expect research-driven solutions and practical takeaways to address today’s complex design challenges and opportunities.
CEUs delve into circularity, fresh perspectives
With over 60 CEU sessions, NeoCon’s educational program aims to deliver the latest strategies, emerging technologies, sustainable practices and compelling concepts from leading associations. Sessions will explore neurodivergence, designing for and by Gen Z, AI-driven materials, decarbonization and circularity in the built environment. Created for today’s design professionals, the CEUs aim to highlight real-world applications and tangible future-forward solutions. All courses will be available on demand virtually through October 1.
Hands-on workshops
This year’s workshops offer in-depth, hands-on learning cultivated in an effort to foster creative thinking and sharpen professional skills. From harnessing the power of color psychology and making informed sustainable material choices to mastering the art of visual storytelling through experience-driven design and sketching techniques––the four interactive workshops are meant to invite attendees to step away from the conference room and into the creative process.
NeoCon talks spark high-impact ideas
Returning for its third year, NeoCon Talks is set to unite influential voices for 12 thought-provoking 20-minute conversations on the seventh floor. Presented in partnership with Work Design Magazine—also sponsored by Formica, 9to5Seating and Garden on the Wall—the talks delve into bold perspectives on next-gen creativity, workplace evolution, technology and AI, human-centered design as well as branding and storytelling.
Inside design
New for 2025, NeoCon attendees can immerse themselves in Chicago’s creative scene with Inside Design—a collaboration with the Design Museum of Chicago, sponsored by KI. Aimed to inspire connection and creativity, these behind-the-scene tours grant special access to some of the city’s most inspiring spaces and voices. Each adventure examines design through the lenses of culture, architecture, food and public art—unveiling a rare opportunity to engage with the city’s makers, thinkers and storytellers beyond THE MART.
Pelican Creations offers the full spectrum of flooring products at its facilities like this one in Vietnam.
In the ever-evolving flooring industry, retailers and distributors are constantly searching for ways to differentiate themselves from the competition. One of the most effective strategies? Private label and OEM production. By partnering with established manufacturers, businesses can offer exclusive, high-quality flooring products under their own brand—without the high costs and complexities of in-house production.
Private label and OEM manufacturing allow retailers and distributors to control branding, pricing and product selection, creating a competitive edge in the market. These partnerships enable businesses to provide customized, high-margin solutions tailored to their customers’ needs. In an industry where innovation and exclusivity drive success, private-label flooring isn’t just an option—it’s a game changer.
Classen’s facility in Baruth, Germany, features fully automated laminate lines.
Differentiating your brand
There are a variety of benefits for distributors and retailers who onboard private-label programs with reputable OEM manufacturers, including access to market-specific product designs and exclusive branding opportunities. This exclusivity is a boon for those looking to differentiate in their markets.
“OEM/private labeling allows our customers the ability to offer something different from everyone else,” explained Yuni Choi, vice president, Pelican Creations. “Our customers are the retailers and distributors who sell directly to the end user, so they become the experts in terms of what people are looking for—they get direct feedback. Private labeling affords them the opportunity to assess the market and build a collection of products they deem are in demand. I think the idea of customization is one of the biggest benefits [of OEM/private labeling].”
Other OEM manufacturers agree that customization is key. “One main advantage is exclusivity—private-label customers can create unique colors, patterns and finishes that differentiate their brand for both product design and customized brand packaging,” noted Volkan Yazici, president, Europine. “It also allows them to control pricing and positioning, giving them an edge over competitors selling generic products.”
Pacific Direct, too, prioritizes this kind of customization. “We would start off with a proof of concept and create unique product offerings competitors don’t have access to within their target market,” explained Fernando Ornelas, general manager. “Instead of investing in developing new flooring products, businesses can leverage our OEM’s ready-made solutions.”
Biyork, a family-owned company, is looking to grow its presence in the U.S. and offers all the benefits of a 30-year veteran in OEM manufacturing—including a focus on customization. “We’ve got over 500 million square feet of capacity, so we’re global in how we can get our products to market and in various markets,” said Peter Brandis, executive vice president. “Being a manufacturer, we have a tremendous amount of flexibility in what we can create to meet a specific dealer’s need. For dealers that have a need or see a gap in the market, we can fill that void. If you want to create a product that is just your own, we have the capabilities, the resources and the experience to help you do that. I’ve seen customizations debating the colors on the box. It’s all the little things that we’re willing to do to make sure that it suits the unique needs of that market and our customer.”
Another major benefit is the ability to control branding. “It’s all about leveraging your resources,” Ornelas noted. “Retailers selling flooring products under their own brand name will increase brand identity and differentiation.”
Pacific Direct offers exclusive, customized product offerings that it develops in facilities like its Malaysian plant.
Europine’s Yazici agreed, noting, “OEM and private-label programs offer a great opportunity for businesses looking to establish their own brand without the high costs and complexities of manufacturing. By partnering with an experienced manufacturer like Europine – Ado Floor, companies can bring high-quality, custom-designed flooring products to market faster and more efficiently.”
Classen Group, too, provides unique branding opportunities for its clients. “We provide OEM and private-label solutions tailored for industrial customers requiring high-volume, high-quality flooring products,” said Céline Quervel, managing director sales and marketing. “Our partnerships enable clients to bring their own brand to market with customized product solutions, exclusive designs and a stable, scalable supply chain.”
Supply chain consistency
One of the biggest challenges in today’s market is an unstable supply chain. This is an area where OEM manufacturers can help ease the burden. Europine’s Yazici put it simply: “Supply chain issues have become a major challenge for the flooring industry, from raw material shortages to unpredictable shipping delays. Having a reliable and experienced manufacturing partner is more important than ever.”
According to Yazici, because Europine controls key aspects of production—including in-house decor film printing—Yazici said it is less dependent on third-party suppliers, allowing it to maintain a more stable and predictable supply chain. Additionally, Europine’s operations are built to meet high-volume demands with strict quality and logistics standards. “We also help our partners optimize inventory planning, ensuring they have the right products when they need them,” he said. “Instead of scrambling for stock, they can rely on a consistent flow of materials, reducing disruptions and lost sales.”
Dewevai Buchanan, CEO Americas, Nature Flooring, said simplified logistics and quality control are just two of the benefits OEM suppliers can provide. “By consolidating production with an OEM, importers can streamline their supply chain and reduce logistics costs. This includes savings on shipping, warehousing and handling. High-quality products also reduce the likelihood of returns, warranty claims and reputational damage.”
In an era of global supply chain challenges, Classen Group offers a fully automated, highly efficient manufacturing and logistics solution. “From the moment raw materials arrive at our facilities to the final container loading for shipment, the entire process is automated—without the use of a single manual forklift,” Quervel said. “This level of automation ensures seamless production, minimizes delays and optimizes material flow, allowing for maximum efficiency and reliability. Furthermore, our extensive experience in overseas business means we understand the complexities of international logistics, documentation and compliance. Whether shipping to North America or other global markets, we have the expertise to manage high-volume exports efficiently.”
Wellmade’s capabilities allow customers to select new designs, specify structures and build a unique private-label program.
For Wellmade, it’s all about providing domestic supply. “Wellmade’s U.S. production offers a host of advantages over imports,” said Dick Quinlan, senior VP sales and marketing. “For example, with 30-day lead times our customers enjoy lower inventory requirements, reducing capital costs by at least 50%. Domestic production also eliminates the risk of out-of-stock products, and unstable pricing caused by tariffs, rising freight costs and global conflict. Customers can come to our Cartersville, Ga., plant to select new design options, specify structures and build a unique private-label program, all without leaving U.S. soil. This is a tremendous advantage over imports, eliminating the need for expensive and extended overseas travel.”
Bringing the knowledge to you
For those looking to grow via a private-label program, the logistics can seem like a lot to swallow. So, OEM manufacturers say to lean on them—it’s what they’re there for.
“OEMs typically have in-depth knowledge and experience in the manufacturing specific types of products,” Nature Flooring’s Buchanan explained. “This specialization means they are well-versed in the best practices, materials and techniques required to produce high-quality items. Experienced OEMs have also encountered and overcome various challenges in the past. This experience equips them with the ability to quickly and effectively address any issues that may arise during the production process, minimizing delays and disruptions.”
Pelican Creation’s Yuni, agreed, noting, “I mentioned that our customers become the experts in the market; however, we are the product experts and the first to know of new product or technological releases—including our own ‘Comfort Core Technology’ that we developed with Unilin Technologies. Our customers tend to know what they want; we are there to guide our customers in their decision making based on the cumulative feedback that we receive from our network of customers. It truly is a synergistic relationship.”
Classen’s Quervel agreed, adding, “Our customers benefit from extensive knowledge of regulatory requirements, market trends and industrial-scale manufacturing processes. Additionally, we offer engineering expertise to translate unique product ideas into industrial production standards, ensuring both efficiency and superior quality.”
At the end of the day, it’s all about forming the right partnerships. “Working with the right OEM partner is about more than just securing products—it’s about gaining a competitive edge in the industry,” Europine’s Yazici said.
Dalton—When unexpected medical challenges strike, the financial burden can be overwhelming. That’s where the Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF) steps in. Just ask Randi, a dedicated flooring worker who faced a cancer diagnosis and mounting bills.
“Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life” by Marshall B. Rosenberg
“Nexus” by Yuval Noah Harari
“Can’t Hurt Me: Master your Mind and Defy the Odds” by David Goggins
“Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care and Social Class ” by Rob Henderson
“Uncommon Greatness: Five Fundamentals to Transform your Leadership ” by Mark Miller
Clemson, S.C.—The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) recently honored Tennessee sixth congressional district representative John Rose as a “friend of the U.S. tile industry.” A specially designed ceramic tile noting the designation was presented to Congressman Rose in his Washington office.
Orlando, Fla.—
Chicago—NeoCon, the premier event for commercial design, has opened registration for its expansive on-site and virtual conference program. Embracing this year’s theme—”Design Ahead”—the NeoCon team has worked to create a slate of thought leadership and professional training, offering attendees access to global powerhouses that address the entire contract design ecosystem.
