A look to the future: Get to know Gen Alpha

I was talking on the phone with my son this morning, which in itself is a positive given that he is 27 and most Gen Zers prefer any means of communication that does not involve directly engaging with another human. We were discussing his next career opportunity, and he was weighing the merits of a work-from-home job (isolation) or a sales gig that would take him in front of people (engagement).

I predicted he would choose the former as I was lamenting how his generation constantly walks around hiding their faces behind hoodies and sunglasses while stuffing their ears with ear pods (lamenting = complaining). He admitted that many of his contemporaries prefer to engage with society at the bare minimum. He traced it back to COVID-19, which thrust people into isolation, depths from which many have not yet emerged. (I warned you six years ago that these lockdowns would have lasting effects.)

Anyway, just when you thought all hope was lost, help is on the way. The bad news is that help is a ways off. It’s coming from the next generation, Gen Alpha, the oldest of which is 16. These are the children of the Millennials. They are the first generation who will be entirely born and shaped in the 21st century and will be the largest generation in history with over 2 billion individuals. They’re going to be very important to you one day.

Obviously, they’re not your customers of tomorrow—it’s more like next week or next year. But know they are a lot different than Gen Z. Case in point: Gen Z experienced the rise of social media, while Gen Alpha was born into a world where digital integration is seamless. Gen Z was shaped by the aftermath of 9/11 and the financial crisis, while Gen Alpha is shaped by rapid technological advancements. Gen Z values experiences over possessions, while Gen Alpha is expected to demand more personalized and immersive experiences. The latter is going to be critical for you.

Believe it or not, Gen Alpha is already beginning to have an impact on retail. A report authored by Melissa Gonzalez of MG2 Advisory, which focuses on retail evolution, reveals interesting research. For example, Gen Alpha is shaping and inspiring purchases made by the adults in their lives. While adults ultimately hold the buying power, 70% of Gen Alpha report that adults in their lives often purchase items they suggest, supporting they not only influence household buying decisions but are also shaping trends and brand loyalty across generations. They are active participants in deciding what to buy, sharing what they have learned online. This is why store environments cannot afford to overlook the range of age groups moving through their spaces, because even without a credit card, Gen Alpha is already shaping how brands and stores show up.

Your store experience will be important to this generation. Unlike so many who favor purchasing online today, 73% of this generation said they prefer shopping in-store to fully immerse themselves in a brand’s environment. They value hands-on experiences that let them explore products, validate purchases and connect with the brand on a deeper level. (Did someone say room viewer?)

You will need to connect with them from a technology standpoint. With fluency across smartphones, tablets, computers, digital worlds, virtual reality and AI tools, they are quickly surpassing Gen Z and Millennials in their expectations for ease and efficiency. Their cultural and commercial influence is accelerating, making it essential to understand what they will expect from brands and retailers in the years ahead.

Here are a few bullet points from the MG2 research:

• While Gen Z values ethical, sustainable and inclusive brands, Gen Alpha favors personalized, immersive and tech-integrated experiences.
• 66% of Gen Alpha rely on clear in-store signage to guide their shopping journey, reflecting the simplicity they have come to expect from their online engagement.
• Gen Alpha discovers brands through a blend of real-world influence and constant digital input. Friends remain their most trusted source, yet their ease with digital platforms explains why YouTube and TikTok are closely behind.
• Accustomed to speed, access and simplicity online, they expect physical environments to meet those same standards. Store layout, opportunities to test and try and overall look and feel emerge as meaningful value drivers, amplified by the presence of friendly, supportive staff.

The post A look to the future: Get to know Gen Alpha appeared first on Floor Covering News.

A look to the future: Get to know Gen Alpha Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Roomvo/QFloors testimonials: The Design House

Jennifer Homeyer of The Design House and Stonemeyer Granite in Denton, Texas, knows residential retail. But the business is unique in ways, too. So how does she manage the whole operation? With QFloors/Roomvo.

“I 150% believe that QFloors was the right decision for us,” Homeyer said.

The post Roomvo/QFloors testimonials: The Design House appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Roomvo/QFloors testimonials: The Design House Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Sika relaunches STEP Series flooring training program

Rutherford, N.J.—Sika relaunched its Sika Technical Education Program, known as the STEP Series. STEP is a flooring installation training curriculum returning due to strong demand. The program will educate contractors and installers on best practices.

The clinic will run for one year. It will be held in person. The training will focus on using components of the Schonox and Sika Secure System. Training will focus on subfloor preparation, moisture mitigation, acoustical control, flooring adhesives and tile setting materials.

The STEP Series will feature two-day training events held monthly at regional facilities across the country. The program will run throughout the year. Sika will provide lunch, installation materials and tools. Participants who complete the course will receive a certificate of training completion from Sika Corp.

“Sika is well-known throughout the flooring industry for developing problem-solving solutions and best-in-class training for the professional installer,” said Shane Jenkins, technical director, interior finishing at Sika Corp. “Our goal with the STEP Series is to utilize the vast experience of our technical team to better equip contractors and installers with the technical know-how to consistently achieve successful flooring installations. We plan to provide attendees with the proper vocational knowledge and hands-on experience that will enable them to realize the advanced benefits of the Schonox and Sika Secure System. This will put them in the best possible position to succeed and tackle even more challenging installations. This is a great way to expand your capabilities and understand the value of system solutions at the expense of Sika.”

The Sika Secure System offers a multi-tier product lineup backed by an enhanced warranty from a single-source supplier. When used together, the system delivers a complete flooring installation solution. It provides a top-to-bottom approach. The system includes elements of the Schonox, SikaBond, SikaLevel and SikaTile product lines.

The post Sika relaunches STEP Series flooring training program appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Sika relaunches STEP Series flooring training program Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Supreme Court strikes down tariffs, Trump retaliates

President Trump orders 10% global tariff after Supreme Court decision.

The Supreme Court declared U.S. President Donald Trump’s broad global tariffs imposed ​under the International Emergency Economic ‌Powers Act illegal, ruling that he had overstepped his authority under that law.

The 6-3 decision, written by Chief Justice John Roberts Jr., could have significant implications for the economy and consumers.

The federal government has collected more than $200 billion in tariffs since the start of last year. Before the decision, the administration had said that a loss in the case could force the government to unwind trade deals with other countries and potentially pay tens of billions of dollars in refunds.

Trump blasted the Supreme Court, calling the justices “disloyal,” before countering. “We have alternatives, great alternatives,” Trump said. “Could be more money. We’ll take in more money, and we’ll be a lot stronger for it.”

Trump retaliates

Trump said on Friday, Feb. 20, that he would impose a 10% global ‌tariff for 150 days to replace some of ‌his emergency duties that were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. He ​said his order would be made under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 and the duties would be over and above tariffs that are currently in place.

The statute ‌allows the president to ⁠impose duties of up to 15% for up to 150 days on any and all countries ⁠related to “large and serious” balance of payments issues. It does not require investigations or impose other procedural limits.

Trump ‌said his administration was also initiating ​several Section 301 unfair trade practices ​investigations “to protect our ​country from unfair trading practices of other countries ‌and companies.”

Trump’s decision to lean ​on other statutes, ​including Section 122, while initiating new investigations under Section 301 had been widely anticipated. But the 10% tariffs ​he announced Friday ‌can only remain in effect for 150 days, and ​Section 301 investigations generally take months to complete.

The post Supreme Court strikes down tariffs, Trump retaliates appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Supreme Court strikes down tariffs, Trump retaliates Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Aladdin Commercial launches new website

Calhoun, Ga.—As a recognized leader in the Main Street commercial flooring segment, Aladdin Commercial has launched a newly redesigned website. Developed in close collaboration with customers and sales partners, the enhanced digital platform delivers a streamlined, intuitive user experience tailored to the specific demands of the Main Street market. The new site reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation, accessibility and delivering tools that better support its partners and clients.

The new Aladdin Commercial website offers an expanded suite of tools that provide deeper insight and greater efficiency throughout the discovery, evaluation and decision making phases. From enhanced product information to improved workflows, the site serves as a comprehensive resource for confident specification.

“This new digital experience reflects our ongoing commitment to serving our customers in meaningful ways,” said Robb Myer, vice president of Aladdin Commercial. “By actively listening to our partners, we’ve created a platform that not only highlights the strength and breadth of our product portfolio but also reduces complexity within the specification process—helping projects advance more efficiently and with greater certainty.”

Key features of the new Aladdin Commercial website include:

• Industry-leading visualization: A new integrated visualization tool allows users to explore flooring solutions in realistic commercial settings.
• Streamlined sample ordering: A new sample function makes it easier to request materials, helping to accelerate the design and approval process.
• Modern user experience: A mobile-responsive interface ensures that customers can access the resources they need from any device.

The result is a customer-informed digital hub that bridges the gap between initial product discovery and final installation.

The post Aladdin Commercial launches new website appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Aladdin Commercial launches new website Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Shop-at-home: A case study

Brian and Daniel Elias, owners of Refloor, discuss what it takes to be successful in the specialized arena of shop at home.

In the beginning…

1. ‎What originally prompted you to launch a shop-at-home program?

It’s an interesting story. After nearly 30 years, I sold my shop-at-home windows and roofing business. I wasn’t ready to retire, and I wanted the opportunity to build something alongside my son, Daniel. Because I had spent my career in the shop-at-home model, I was very comfortable with that approach. As we explored what to do next, we evaluated a few product categories where in-home education and expertise truly matter. Flooring ultimately stood out as the best fit for us.

2. How did you define success in the early stages?

Success was defined simply: make the sale, deliver a quality installation and keep our promises to the customer. Most importantly, we wanted to do it consistently, without relying on heroics. It wasn’t about growth.

3. What did you get wrong at the beginning and what would you do differently?

We underestimated how unforgiving the model can be. In-home selling exposes every weakness, training, systems, oversight and customer communication. If we were starting again, we’d invest earlier in leadership, infrastructure and a broader offering.

 4. If you had to start again tomorrow, what would you prioritize first?

Foundation before growth. People, systems and communication come first. With those in place, we would still pursue fast growth, but we would plan earlier for physical locations that support trust, training and customer confidence.

In the thick of it…

1. How does shop-at-home fit into your overall business model now?

Shop-at-home is what we know, and it remains foundational to who we are. I’ve always believed that real success comes from focusing on what you do best, and staying disciplined about it. That’s exactly why I’m not in the restaurant business anymore! We’re always evaluating new opportunities, but we’re not in a rush. Right now, our priority is execution. There’s plenty of important work ahead to continue refining and doing this the right way.

2. What training is required for in-home sales consultants?

Training is extensive (and expensive!) and ongoing. Our consultants must understand construction, subfloor conditions, measurements, product performance and customer psychology. Just as important, they are trained to operate independently in complex situations. In-home appointments are rarely linear, and there is no one there to coach you in the moment when something goes wrong. This is consultative problem solving, not transactional selling.

3. Which product categories perform best in shop-at-home?

Categories where education, scale and context matter most tend to perform best. When customers can see how a product interacts with their space, lifestyle and lighting, higher-quality solutions often win. When customers already know exactly what they want, almost any category can perform. The model struggles most when customers are early in their research and lack clarity, which is where expanded selection and physical locations can add value.

Acknowledging the logistics…

1. How do you manage scheduling, routing and lead flow?

With discipline and constant refinement. In-home sales lives or dies by time efficiency and follow-through. We treat scheduling and routing as strategic levers, not administrative tasks. We use advanced software to optimize routing daily, similar to how large logistics companies—like Amazon—operate, and this remains an ongoing challenge that requires continued investment in technology and process.

2. What systems or software are critical to making the model work?

The model depends on tightly integrated systems across CRM, scheduling, communication and performance management. No single technology is the solution, in fact is shocks people that we have 72 software solutions integrated with our CRM and the number continues to rise. The real challenge is adoption, discipline and data integrity. Technology enables the model, but people make it work.

3. What role do samples, visualization and technology play in the home?

They are decision-support tools, not decision-makers. Physical samples are our standard, but visualization and digital tools help customers narrow choices and eliminate uncertainty faster. The goal is not to impress the customer. It is to simplify a complex decision and build confidence without overselling.

The finances of it all…

1. How do margins compare to traditional retail sales?

Margins are not easier. They are earned differently. Shop-at-home shifts investment from real estate to people, systems and logistics. Marketing becomes far more critical because there is no storefront acting as a beacon. When executed with discipline, the economics are strong. Without discipline, they unravel quickly and that is why people go into in-home sales temporarily and find themselves reverting to storefronts.

2. How has shop-at-home impacted revenue, close rates and average ticket?

We do not have a traditional retail baseline to compare against, since we have always operated this way. What we do know is that when the experience is executed well, customers make more confident decisions. That confidence naturally improves close rates and average ticket, but only when the operational foundation is solid.

3. Is it more or less profitable than traditional retail?

It is not inherently more profitable. It is more demanding. Profitability comes from consistency, accountability and scale. The model rewards excellence and exposes inefficiencies faster than traditional retail.

4. What scale is required to make it work financially?

Meaningful scale is required. You need enough volume to support specialized roles, leadership layers and technology investments. Many companies struggle because they limit their market too tightly and never reach the scale required to absorb the fixed costs of doing this well.

Sound advice…

1. What advice would you give a retailer considering shop-at-home?

Be honest about your readiness. This model demands operational rigor, strong culture and full commitment. It is not a shortcut. If you are not willing to live and breathe it every day, I would advise against pursuing it.

2. What is the biggest mistake to avoid?

Assuming great salespeople can overcome weak systems. In-home sales does not forgive chaos. If pricing models, backend systems and operational discipline are not sound, the customer experience will suffer.

3. Who is shop-at-home not right for?

Retailers looking for a quick win or organizations resistant to standardization and accountability. Doing this right requires a significant investment in infrastructure and leadership. You must have significant capital to invest. While I have always had some storefront envy, I also understand that physical locations must serve the model, not distract from it. We are committed to learning how to integrate them thoughtfully to reduce marketing costs and improve the customer experience.

The post Shop-at-home: A case study appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Shop-at-home: A case study Posted First on https://fcnews.net

Bringing fashion to the floor

What starts on the runway rarely stays there. As fashion embraces bolder colors, patterns and textures, those same ideas are inspiring a new approach to interior design — especially underfoot. Today’s product designers are borrowing from high-fashion aesthetics to create flooring that feels expressive, curated and certainly on trend. Here we explore how the runway is shaping 2026 flooring design, interior details and overall trends in homes today.

A ROARING RETURN

Fashion’s most influential looks are revisiting the spirit of the flapper through a modern lens, reintroducing drop waists, intricate embellishment and graceful, fluid silhouettes. With Art Deco marking its centennial moment, this renewed interest feels timely, inviting designers to reinterpret a classic era with contemporary energy yet classic craftsmanship.

CLOUD-LIKE CALM

Cloud Dancer, Pantone’s Color of the Year, reflects a shift toward quiet sophistication, where softness takes center stage. On the runway, designers lean into pale neutrals, using subtle texture and movement to create visual interest without excess. In interiors, Cloud Dancer-inspired flooring is defined by warm whites, gentle veining and light-reflective surfaces that feel expansive yet grounded.

CONFIDENT COLOR

Bold color is back with the perfect energy to balance the muted Cloud Dancer. On the runway, bright hues collide, creating looks that feel playful, expressive and intentionally a bit messy. Rather than relying on neutrals, color leads the conversation for many. That same confidence shows up in residential and commercial design alike, where vibrant flooring energizes spaces, defines zones and encourages play.

WILD STYLE

Animal print is an old favorite that is once again stepping confidently into the spotlight. While leopard remains a perennial favorite, it is now being met more often with the unexpected charm of zebra, snake and cow prints. On the runway, these patterns invite wearers to choose a print that reflects their own sense of style. This bold-but-balanced approach is mirrored in flooring, where animal-inspired visuals add depth, movement and personality without overpowering a space.

CLASSIC KHAKI

Once representing utility, khaki is stepping into a more refined role, emerging as a versatile neutral that feels both relaxed and polished. Fashion designers are styling khaki in dynamic ways, proving its adaptability across moods and moments. At the same time, khaki-toned flooring and textiles ground a space with warmth while allowing other colors and textures to shine. Equal parts timeless and modern, khaki offers a calm foundation with enduring appeal.

HERITAGE AT HEART

Heritage isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, timeless style and enduring design that feels just as relevant today as it did decades ago. On the runway this season designers went into the archives and elevated classic tailoring, traditional fabrics and storied silhouettes with a contemporary twist, honoring what came before while making it feel fresh and intentional. This translates into interior design where rich wood looks bring warmth, character and a sense of rooted history to modern spaces.

The post Bringing fashion to the floor appeared first on Floor Covering News.

Bringing fashion to the floor Posted First on https://fcnews.net