Santa Clara, CA, May 2008 - The four-day turnout of more than 35,000 Coverings 2008 attendees is an obvious sign that despite doom-and-gloom economic reports, interest in tile and stone remains solid and hardy. The annual international marketplace and conference dedicated exclusively to ceramic tile and natural stone was held from April 29 to May 2 in Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center. Skeptics were surprised as the overall attendance was up 3.8 percent compared to the show’s last appearance in Orlando in 2006.

From the minute the doors opened at Coverings the mood and tenor of the show were upbeat. Unlike other recent building industry shows where it was reported that the introductions were restrained and limited, exhibit after exhibit at Coverings delighted attendees with bold, new styles on display. Innovative uses for tile were frequently spotted and included such novel ideas as a faux tufted look for the headboard of a bed to stone cladding for doors and cabinetry.

“Once again, the Alibaba.com booth was a popular destination for the attendees at Coverings,” said David Wang, of Alibaba.com. “Of course, promotional activities like our Harley Davidson Motorcycle giveaway helped attract a lot of attention, but once people stopped at our booth, it was the benefits of using Alibaba.com that kept them interested.” People were fascinated by the numerous potential trade partners available on Alibaba.com thanks to an already massive membership.

Seen at Coverings 2008

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