EFI, Electronics For Imaging, a major US digital printing group based in Silicon Valley, has acquired Cretaprint, a developer of ceramic tile inkjet printers operating in Castellón, Spain. EFI’s experience in imaging technologies, workflow, and colour management in a range of fields together with Cretaprint’s expertise in the ceramic industry will further expand the range of offerings available to the market. EFI plans to strengthen Cretaprint’s operations in the field of technological innovation and to grow its market presence both in Spain and across the globe. “The acquisition of Cretaprint offers us a tremendous opportunity for growth in the ceramic tile marketplace, which in turn will greatly benefit from our innovative portfolio of technologies for digital decoration,” commented EFI’s CEO Guy Gecht. “We were very impressed by Cretaprint’s leadership position and pioneering role in the digitisation of the print industry.” Cretaprint’s CEO Victor Blasco was equally enthusiastic: “EFI’s global presence will accelerate the adoption of our digital technology across the globe and especially in emerging markets,” he said. EFI enjoys an excellent position in its various global markets. For the fourth quarter of 2011 the company expects revenues of approximately $163 million compared to $145 million in the fourth quarter of 2010, marking EFI’s eighth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. The results were driven by record revenues in both the inkjet and APPS/MIS segments.

EFI, Electronics For Imaging, a major US digital printing group based in Silicon Valley, has acquired Cretaprint, a developer of ceramic tile inkjet printers operating in Castellón, Spain. EFI’s experience in imaging technologies, workflow, and colour management in a range of fields together with Cretaprint’s expertise in t... more

From 7th to 10th February takes place the 30th edition of the International Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Equipment Fair, CEVISAMA at the Feria Valencia centre. The fair is already an international point of reference for the industry involved in coverings for interiors. Spain's ceramic tile sector is once again the largest largest prescence at the event, with a large number of ASCER member companies showcasing their products and latest developments. As well as tile manufacturers the fair also includes companies that specialise in coverings for use in construction, sanitary ware, fittings, raw materials, glazes, frits etc., comprising an extraordinary range for visiting professionals to see.

This year's show covers more than 120,000 square metres of display space, and more than 700 exhibitors. the growing percentage of foreign companies participating at the fair, confirms the steady development of the fair's international profile.

Programme of parallel and promotional events
ASCER and ICEX have put together a programme of events designed to promote Spanish ceramic tiles under the generic "Tile of Spain/"Ceramica de Espana" brand, a significant element of which is the invitation of more than 70 trade journalists and specifiers from a number of countries to visit the show.

This year's guests include journalists from the specialist interiors, architecture and construction press from China, France, Germany, Holland, India, Israel, Italy, Poland, Romania, Russia, the UK, Ukraine, and the USA.

As it does every year ASCER will be calling an international press conference on the second day of the fair to present the main statistics for the industry along with projects for the future and news from the sector. The press conference will be followed by the award ceremony for the 10th Tile of Spain Awards, which feature Architecture, Interior Design, Degree Project and Journalism categories.

For the eighth year running the fair will also feature the TRANS/HITOS Architecture and Interior Design in Ceramic exhibit. The 2012 display has been subtitled "SPACES" because in it converge different groups which show architectural applications on ceramics, as well as new uses of ceramic tiles for both urban areas and for domestic areas. The display is being housed on Level 2 of the exhibition centre's Central Mall.

ASCER's stand at the fair is once again located opposite the Trans-Hito exhibition. This year, Tile of Spain has set up a "meeting point" for the international press invited to the show. A place to relax and meet colleagues from different countries, and exchange opinions and impressions of the show.

Internationally renowned architects, designers and interior designers have been involved in CEVISAMA'S Architecture and Design Forum since its inception. Over a three-day period the Forum turns the spotlight on experiences and projects centred on the use of ceramic tiles. Wednesday 8 is the day focused on the Interiorism, the interior designer Jordi Ribaudi will give a lectture on their ceramic projects. on Thursday 9, the protagonists are the architects. COR study, X Tile of Spain Awards winners with the project "House of Music in Alguena", will explain the reason for the choice of ceramics as a differentiating element in their project. To finish off the lecture series, on Friday the vanguard French designer Matali Crasset will share their experiences and recent works with all of the attendees.

From 7th to 10th February takes place the 30th edition of the International Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Equipment Fair, CEVISAMA at the Feria Valencia centre. The fair is already an international point of reference for the industry involved in coverings for interiors. Spain's ceramic tile sector is once again the largest largest prescence a... more

Brazillian producers of ceramic tile, ELIANE S/A and PORTOBELLO S/A, have entered into an agreement to merge. The agreement was signed by CEO's Edson Gaidzinski, Jr. of ELIANE and Cesar Gomes, Jr. of PORTOBELLO on December 24th.

The ultimate transaction will result in a firm with over 4,000 employees and $650 million US in sales, making it one of the top five worldwide producers in revenue, and combined market their products globally in over 70 countries. The merger is expected to be finalized during the first quarter of 2012.

While the merged company will have a new corporate name, the PORTOBELLO and ELIANE brands will continue operating independently under the new corporation, and no major changes are anticipated for the marketing, distribution or manufacturing of either brand.

Brazillian producers of ceramic tile, ELIANE S/A and PORTOBELLO S/A, have entered into an agreement to merge. The agreement was signed by CEO's Edson Gaidzinski, Jr. of ELIANE and Cesar Gomes, Jr. of PORTOBELLO on December 24th.

... more

The first interest rate cut in two-and-a-half years had an immediate impact on the new home building sector, according to builders.

The HIA - JELD-WEN New Home Sales report, based on a survey of Australia's 100 largest builders, showed a significant bounce for sales in November 2011.

Total seasonally adjusted new home sales increased by 6.8 per cent in November last year following a downwardly revised 2.8 per cent gain in October.

Detached house sales increased by a relatively healthy 9.8 per cent, driven primarily by a stronger showing in New South Wales and Victoria.

Multi-unit sales placed a dampener on the good news party, dropping by 17.0 per cent.

The volume of detached house sales improved in four out of five mainland states in November 2011, rising by 22.8 per cent in New South Wales, 11.6 per cent in Victoria, 5.7 per cent in Western Australia, and 4.7 per cent in Queensland. Sales fell by 11.3 per cent in South Australia.?

"This is a healthier but not unexpected result," said HIA chief economist, Dr Harley Dale.

"Only two months earlier in September 2011, detached house sales plumbed an 11 year low," said Dale.

"From this parlous starting position, and with speculation regarding a rate cut mounting and then delivered upon, anything other than some recovery in sales volumes would have been surprising, not to mention highly disturbing."

"With falling interest rates, a competitive building market, and a greater availability of skilled trades amidst still very soft overall demand conditions, now is clearly a good time to build a new home for those who are financially set to take that decision," noted Dale.

"There is, however, a long way to go to restore new home sales volumes to acceptable levels. At present sales volumes are running at least 20 per cent below what you could conservatively call healthy," Dale said.

"Interest rate cuts, both those we've had and those that are still warranted, provide a starting catalyst for a sustained and strong recovery in new home building conditions. Such a recovery won't emerge, however, without well-targeted government stimulus and without a re-engagement of the policy reform process to reduce the high and inefficient barriers to new housing supply," added Dale.

The first interest rate cut in two-and-a-half years had an immediate impact on the new home building sector, according to builders.

The HIA - JELD-WEN New Home Sales report, based on a survey of Australia's 100 largest builders, showed a significant bounce for sales... more

Tile + Stone e-news is endorsed by the Australian Tile Council and the Australian Stone Advisory Association. It provides a monthly update about important new suppliers, products, services, showrooms, related industry standards and resources of information.

Tile + Stone e-news is endorsed by the&nb... more

International Ceramic, Natural Stone & Bathroom Equipment Trade Fair

The Spanish event for ceramics, natural stone, bathroom equipment, frits and glazes, and ceramic machinery will bring together the most innovative proposals and top-level buyers. The event, which takes place from 7th to 10th of February at Feria Valencia, has already become an international reference owing to the high quality of the exhibition and growth in the number of foreign visitors, with 14% more buyers than at the previous edition.

At this 30th edition, visitors will discover innovative and ground-breaking developments from industries with a firm commitment to R&D&I who produce cutting-edge, technological, and eco-efficient products for interior design, architecture, and urban and public spaces. This forum offers new developments year after year and is already considered a global benchmark.

The innovation and trends of the “Made in Spain” showcase have inspired the Feria’s image, which is based on trends and supported by the slogan “Home Skin Shines”.

The fair is experiencing a satisfactory pace of commercialisation and, with still five months to go before the event, 90% of the total occupancy of the last edition has already been contracted. In addition, all the leading companies have confirmed their presence, encouraged by the success of the 2011 event.

The event’s organisers, who aim to boost their promotional plan for the international market, have already begun work. The campaign to promote the event internationally and to attract international buyers is very ambitious: they plan to invite thousands of specifiers and buyers from European markets and emerging markets such as Russia, Arab countries, India, northern Maghreb, and Brazil, as well as Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Guatemala, Ecuador, Mexico, Iran, Singapore, and China.

Moreover, H2SHOW, a bathroom design gallery which is returning for the 2012 edition. This highly successful initiative, which first started at Cevisama 2011, already has 90% of previous exhibitors returning for 2012. The space, which will host leading companies and trend setters, gained importance at the event, with an increase of 10% in exhibitor registrations.

Backed up by supporting data, Cevisama Social has proven that in less than a year it has become a valuable tool for connecting exhibitors and visitors 365 days a year, on a massive scale, from all over the world. More specifically, 1,400 people looked at 6,500 pages for 8,680 minutes every week.

International Ceramic, Natural Stone & Bathroom Equipment Trade Fair

The Spanish event for ceramics, natural stone, bathroom equipment, frit... more

The Federal Government has launched a $558 million fund to provide 130,000 Australians with the opportunity to learn new skills for jobs in sectors suffering from critical skill shortages. 

The National Workforce Development Fund recognises that training skilled workers for our economy is a shared responsibility between Government and industry. It is imperative that they increase workforce participation and meet the demand for skilled labour.

Since August, industry has been able to make bids to their respective Industry Skills Councils, in order to secure matched funding to train its current prospective workforce, with small businesses receiving more assistance. The co-contribution model means that large enterprises will contribute 66 per cent of the cost of training. 

Medium and small enterprises will be obliged to contribute 50 and 33 per cent, respectively. Funding support will be available for accrediting training for new and existing workers to help meet businesses skills demands.

The first round of the National Workforce Development Fund will make $73 million available across all sectors of industry, with $50 million centred on the priority sectors of Construction (civil and general) and Aged Care.

Both of these crucial sectors are at risk of experiencing skills shortages at a time of strong growth. Construction is currently enjoying the flow on effects of the mining boom whilst the Aged Care sector has to accommodate a rising number of retirees and longer living pensioners.

The Federal Government is providing a further $75 million through the Critical Skills Investment Fund (CSIF), which forms part of the National Workforce Development Fund. The CSIF will increase the workforce capacity   and productivity of critical industries, such as the resources and renewable energy sectors.

The Federal Government has launched a $558 million fund to provide 130,000 Australians with the opportunity to learn new skills for jobs in sectors suffering from critical skill shortages. 

The National Workforce Development Fund recognises that training skilled workers for our economy is a shared responsibility between Govern... more

The 29th Cersaie will be held from 20 to 24 September in the Bologna  exhibition centre. The entire exhibition space (a gross area of 176,000 sq.m)  has once again been fully booked by around 955 companies from 31  countries, demonstrating the keen interest in the show on the part of Italian  and foreign exhibitors.

Alongside the world’s leading producers of tiles and bathroom furnishings, the  glaze and colour producers will as usual be present in hall 22: Bitossi,  Coloresmalt, Coloritalia, Colorobbia Group, Def, Endeka Ceramics, Esmalglass, Esmaltes, Ferro, Fritta, Inco, Intercolor, Lamberti, Metco, Quimicer, Sicer, Smalticeram, Smaltochimica, Torrecid, Vernis,  Vetriceramici and Vidres.

Cersaie 2011 ushers in the age of the “sustainable trade fair”, a three-year  project that will involve concrete actions ranging from waste reduction to  optimisation of energy, water and paper usage, the use of environmentally- friendly paper for all printed materials, and the promotion of sustainable  transport (through agreements with TreniItalia for reduced fares on the  high-speed rail line to and from Bologna).

As usual, the exhibition will begin with the opening economic conference  entitled “Keeping pace with the market”, held on Tuesday 20 September in the Palazzo dei Congressi in Bologna. Talks will be given by Emma Marcegaglia,  Confindustria chairman, Franco Manfredini, Confindustria Ceramica chairman, Jacques Attali, an eclectic personality and a prominent figure in the world of  economics, culture and finance, and Antonio Tajani, vice president of the European Commission responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship.

As part of the series of conferences entitled Building, Dwelling, Thinking, Cersaie 2011 will give plenty of coverage to Japanese architecture with talks by two highly renowned figures in the sector, Kengo Kuma and Kazuyo Sejima.

click here to read more

In addition there will be numerous other appointments with key players from  the world of architecture and design. Alongside Kuma and Sejima there will  also be talks by Patricia Urquiola on the theme of “Interconnections between product design and architecture” and by designer Alessandro Mendini, whose works are displayed in museums and private collections all over the world.

Last but not least, Lia Piano, director of Fondazione Renzo Piano, and  architect Giorgio Bianchi will present the project for the New York Times Building, “a skyscraper with a human face”, and the Morgan Library. Through  a series of images, Giorgio Bianchi will reconstruct the story of the two  buildings since 2001, when he walked with Renzo Piano amongst the ruins of  the Twin Towers.

Tile Edizioni is present at Cersaie with two stands. The main stand is located  in the Press Agora (stand no. 11), the space devoted to publishers in the Services Centre, while the second stand is located as in the past on the  ground floor of hall 19 - stand B18.

The 29th Cersaie will be held from 20 to 24 September in the Bologna  exhibition centre. The entire exhibition space (a gross area of 176,000 sq.m)  has once again been fully booked by around 955 companies from 31  countries, demonstrating the keen interest in the show on the part of Italian  and foreign exhibitors.

Richard P. Goldberg, AIA, CSI, NCARB is an Architect and President of Professional Consultants International, an international building design and construction consulting company. Mr. Goldberg is involved in all phases of a building project, from research and design development, to construction monitoring and forensic investigations.

Mr. Goldberg has over 32 years of architectural and construction industry experience.

He is an internationally recognized specialist in ceramic tile architecture, and he is responsible for design and specification of many significant tile façade cladding projects, including the 75 story Al Hamra Tower, Kuwait, the Brooklyn Children's Museum, New York City, USA and the Hilton Rainbow Tower, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.   

CERAMIC TILE ON THE FOREFRONT OF ARCHITECTURE

A 10 Year Retrospective
"Over the past 10 years since my 2002 QUALICER presentation about the future of ceramics in architecture, many of the concepts and ideas presented have come to fruition. In 2002, when the concept of sustainable architecture was in its infancy, I was convinced that ceramics were well positioned as a building material with the perfect balance of sustainable design and performance characteristics."

"At QUALICER 2012, I will address recent developments and offer examples and ideas about the sustainable benefits of ceramics in architecture, how ceramics benefit from the precise computer engineering required for design of buildings in the 21st century, and most important, some more exciting predictions about how ceramics can re-write architectural history."

Further information

Richard P. Goldberg, AIA, CSI, NCARB is an Architect and President of Professional Consultants International, an international building design and construction consulting company. Mr. Goldberg is involved in all phases of a building project, from research and design development, to construction monitoring and forensic investigations.

... more

The Italian ceramic industry is regaining momentum and beginning to put the  difficulties of 2009 behind it. This trend emerges clearly from the figures  published in the 2010 National Statistical Survey of the ceramic tile,  sanitaryware, tableware and refractory materials industries conducted by the Confindustria Ceramica Studies Centre. According to the survey, the sector (made up of 284 companies with a total of 37,990 employees) generated a turnover of 6.517 billion euro (compared to 4.508 billion euro in 2009), of which 2.552 billion euro derived from sales on the Italian domestic market and 3.965 billion euro from exports worldwide.

The lion’s share of turnover was as always generated by the ceramic tile sector with 4.629 billion euro (+2.79%), followed by ceramic sanitaryware with 421 million euro, tableware with 68.1 million euro and refractory materials with 409.2 million euro.

Foreign sales continued to be a vital source of revenue in 2001 with all sectors reporting strong export turnover. In the Italian domestic market, the tile (-2.95%) and sanitaryware (-5.62%) segments saw a further fall in turnover, whereas tableware and refractory materials reported turnover growth of 10.76% and 26.19% respectively.

The Italian ceramic industry is regaining momentum and beginning to put the  difficulties of 2009 behind it. This trend emerges clearly from the figures  published in the 2010 National Statistical Survey of the ceramic tile,  sanitaryware, tableware and refractory materials industries conducted by the Confindustria Ceramica Stu... more

Judy Hollingsworth, the CEO of God Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) recently announced that GECA has extended the renewal date for their Hard Surfacing standard #40, which is part of the Australian Eco Label program. The standard which covers ceramic tile, natural stone and other hard surfacing materials was first introduced in 2008. The standard can be viewed at www.geca.org.au

Judy Hollingsworth, the CEO of God Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) recently announced that GECA has extended the renewal date for their Hard Surfacing standard #40, which is part of the Australian Eco Label program. The standard which covers ceramic tile, natural stone and other hard surfacing materials was first introduced in 2008. The... more

From 26 to 29 May, Italian ceramic technology will take centre stage at the 25th Ceramics China, a longstanding Chinese exhibition of ceramic technology and the top show for the sector in the Asian continent. Ceramics China is also an important showcase for international players in the sector and is organised by Unifair Exhibition Service with the support of China Ceramic Industrial Association and the sponsorship of China National Light Industry Council.  Acimac, in cooperation with the Italian Trade Commission ICE, is organising a joint pavilion for Italian ceramic machinery and equipment manufacturers, this year comprising thirteen companies in an exhibit space of more than a thousand square metres. The companies taking part are Air Power, BMR, CMF Technology, Colorobbia - Industrie Bitossi, Euromeccanica, Manfredini & Schianchi, Sacmi, Seedex, Setec, Siti-B&T, SRS - Assoprint System and Tecnoferrari.

From 26 to 29 May, Italian ceramic technology will take centre stage at the 25th Ceramics China, a longstanding Chinese exhibition of ceramic technology and the top show for the sector in the Asian continent. Ceramics China is also an important showcase for international players in the sector and is organised by Unifair Exhibition Service wit... more

Tecnargilla, the world's leading fair of technology for the ceramic and brick industries, will be back for the 23rd time from 24 to 28 September 2012.

Organized as always by ACIMAC and Rimini Fiera, the event will present the very best in stylistic and process innovations for the sector, showcasing all the major companies and drawing a high number of international buyers to Rimini.

Last time it was held, in 2010, Tecnargilla once again proved to be the fair most popular with foreign trade visitors. Over 14,600 international buyers came to the expo over its five days in Rimini, marking an increase of 18.6% from 2008.

The profile of these visitors (who totalled 31.599) was also a highly qualified one, another indicator of the event’s standing. Professionals from the technical and sales departments of companies that produce ceramic products accounted for over 80%. Out of these, over 40% occupy decision-making positions at their company.

Tecnargilla 2012 is therefore shaping up as a not-to-be-missed event for everyone in the ceramic and brick sector, since it is scheduled in the same period as Cersaie and Marmomacc, and will once again feature its usual thematic sections: Tecnargilla, dedicated to technology for tiles, bathroom fixtures and dishware, Kromatech, a showcase of color and creativity in ceramics, and Claytech, with technology for the brick industry.

Tecnargilla, the world's leading fair of technology for the ceramic and brick industries, will be back for the 23rd time from 24 to 28 September 2012.

Organized as always by ACIMAC and Rimini Fiera, the event will present the very best in stylistic and process innovations for the sector, showcasing all the major companies... more

Porcelain stoneware in tune with nature

Ceramiche Caesar presents Supreme, the re-interpretation of nature through ceramic. Natural effect and a high standard of technical features are the distinctive elements that set this collection apart from the others and make it perfect for indoor and outdoor surfaces, for flooring and wall coverings. Made from porcelain stoneware at the forefront of current technology, the collection is the reinterpretation of six stones all of which are different from each other in terms of origin, texture and structure: the six colour choices combine with the available finishes to render surfaces with effects of pure naturalness. Supreme is the result of the meeting between passion for nature and Made in Italy technology and, thanks to its versatility, is the idea solution for a myriad of destinations of use, be they commercial or residential. Supreme dresses spaces and, at the same time, protects the environment, hence why the collection is currently being assessed for Ecolabel certification. Available in four modular sizes, the collection is suitable for innovative installation patterns and ennobled by new three-dimensional decors that create extraordinary harmonious movements on the surface.

Porcelain stoneware in tune with nature

Ceramiche Caesar presents Supreme, the re-interpretation of nature through ceramic. Natural effect and a high standard of technical features are the distinctive elements that set this collection apart from the others and make it perfect for indoor and outdoor surfaces, ... more

Reaping the benefits of the development plan implemented in Italy over the last two years (more than 100 million euro of completed investments) and the excellent market performance in Russia and the United States, Marazzi Group closed 2010 with a total turnover of 818.3 million euro, an increase of 2.2% compared to 2009, and a 5.2% increase in sales of ceramic tiles.
In Russia, where the Group has two production facilities and around 200 direct points of sale, revenues rose by 34.7%, while in the United States, where Marazzi has been operating as a manufacturer since the 1980s, sales rose by 13.6% and the Group also increased its market share. In the USA the Group recently purchased 6 points of sale which join the 7 outlets already present, broadening its range of offerings and enhancing its capacity to provide service in the American market. An investment is also nearing completion for a new production line that will continue to improve the offerings of new products for the local market.

The Group's European sales have seen a recovery in profitability in spite of the continued fall in consumption that has affected the entire construction sector.

The Group’s operating income was also significant: EBITDA (14.4% of net sales) totalled 118.1 million euro, 35.4% up on the previous year, while EBIT (7.6% of sales) amounted to 62 million euro. Net profits totalled 13.5 million euro.

Operating cash flow reached 105.1 million euro, allowing the level of debt to be reduced from 298.7 to 226.9 million euro at 31/12/2010 in spite of the investments made by the Group (68.4 million euro for refurbishment of facilities, especially in Italy).

Reaping the benefits of the development plan implemented in Italy over the last two years (more than 100 million euro of completed investments) and the excellent market performance in Russia and the United States, Marazzi Group closed 2010 with a total turnover of 818.3 million euro, an increase of 2.2% compared to 2009, and a 5.2% increase i... more

In a significant achievement for the Italian and European ceramic tile industries, the European Commission has approved the application of provisional duties ranging between 32% and 73% on Chinese ceramic tile imports sold in the EU-27 market. The antidumping measure was initiated with the publication of the proceedings on 19 June 2010 in the Official Journal of the European Commission and involves applying to the entire volume of Chinese ceramic tiles imported into Europe an average duty of 32% for Chinese exporters included in the investigated sample and 73% for exporters who did not cooperate. The share of the latter group is estimated at 50% of total Chinese imports into EU-27.

The measure is to be ratified by the European Council within six months of coming into effect and was needed in order to counter the alarming increase in Chinese tile imports. Investigations have shown that European ceramic tile consumption in 2009 totalled 1 billion square metres, with imported Chinese tiles accounting for 62 million square metres. In the first half of 2010, European consumption fell by 3% whereas imports of Chinese tiles soared by 25%.

 “The adopted measures are not intended to close off the European market to Chinese companies but to re-establish conditions of fair competition,” commented Confindustria Ceramica’s Chairman Franco Manfredini. CET Chairman Alfonso Panzani agreed, expressing the hope that the new measures will offer the European tile industry fresh potential for recovery.

In a significant achievement for the Italian and European ceramic tile industries, the European Commission has approved the application of provisional duties ranging between 32% and 73% on Chinese ceramic tile imports sold in the EU-27 market. The antidumping measure was initiated with the publication of the proceedings on 19 June 2010 in the... more

Cevisama, the international ceramics, natural stone and bathroom equipment fair, has closed its 2011 edition with better quality and more international visitors.

The number of exhibitors at the fair has grown by 8% while the number of brands represented has increased by 39%. The range of products offered in 2011 has boosted and the novelties have doubled since last year. The exhibiting companies have made a great effort in terms of quality and innovation, with a broader offer and a total of 207 new products.

Moreover, the effort carried out by the organization to attract foreign quality visitors’ attention has meant a 14% increase in this field.

According to Armando Ibañez, president of the fair: “We have beaten our expectations, the challenge was to increase the number of international buyers and prescriptors with a high purchasing power, and we have achieved both.”

Beatriz Urbón, the Cevisama fair director, states that a thorough survey has been held in order to invite important distribution companies. “We have invited the best positioned international buyers capable of guaranteeing exhibiting companies a high buying power because, right now, export is what ensures success.”

Cevisama received 77,104 visitors during the five exhibition days. 12,489 were foreign visitors from 148 different countries, which meant 16% of the total and an increase of 14%, figures that make Cevisama’s 29th Edition one of the most international ones.

Countries from the euro area such as Italy, Portugal, Germany and Belgium still lead the list. Russia, with a 65% increase, and the former-Soviet republics’ presence have increased compared to last year’s figures. It is also important to note the presence of buyers from India, with a 26% increase compared to last year’s edition.

American buyers have doubled their presence. Final data shows a 111% increase of US buyers and a 33% increase of Canadians. This boost has been increased by buyers from South American countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Costa Rica and Panama.

Cevisama has hosted 1,590 Arab buyers of a great potential which is an unprecedented success.

With regards to the type of visitors, 23% were architects, interior designers and designers, a public at which companies are aiming their promotion efforts and other strategic aims of the fair. 45% of these were distribution companies which meant a thousand more than last year.

A new space: design gallery H2Show
Cevisama 2011 has launched a specific exhibition offer for the bathroom industry. This 2011 offer has attracted the attention of international bathroom companies focused on design and has boosted the fair’s attractiveness towards buyers and prescriptors, creating new, positive prospects for the 2012 edition.

Cevisama Indi: Cevisama’s added value
The 2011 edition has had a wide parallel program of activities which have added value to the fair and consolidate Cevisama as a tendency-creating platform and a gathering point for training in this industry.

The fair has carried out activities related to ceramics use in interior design, architecture and public works: The Trans/hitos show; The Architecture and Design Forum conferences, with the presence of the best architects, designers and interior designers; and Valencia’s Polytechnics University Techniques Conferences, with very important speakers.

Tile Fixer’s Workshop, which has had a wider area in which to present tile fixing’s latest techniques, and the Alfa de Oro Awards, a reward focused on technological innovation, have also taken place at Cevisama.

Cevisama has also exhibited the selected and winning projects of the Ceramics and Bathroom Design International Contests, aimed at discovering the most transgressor proposals of the younger professionals.

The fair continues at Cevisama Social
Adjusting to present times, Cevisama launches a novelty in the 2011 edition: an online communication platform to allow exhibitors to connect with buyers from the fair all year long. This way, new contacts can be made and export figures increased.

Cevisama has taken the fair’s essence to a platform which helps promote exhibitors’ products all year long and, with this new initiative, is focused on making business and new trading contacts worldwide.

Cevisama Social also offers students the opportunity to promote their ceramic, bathroom and natural stone related projects via this new platform. The objective is for the business world to learn about students’ creativity.

The platform also has an area for prescriptors, who have previously used products from Cevisama’s exhibitors, to publish their projects promoting their professional career while giving the brand some added value.

Next edition
The fair is already working on the next edition in order to attract new quality buyers. Cevisama 2012 will take place from 7 to 10 February 2012
 

Valencia, March 2011

htttp://cevisama.feriavalencia.com

Cevisama, the international ceramics, natural stone and bathroom equipment fair, has closed its 2011 edition with better quality and more international visitors.

The number of exhibitors at the fair has grown by 8% while the number of brands represented has increased by 39%. The range of products offered in 2011 has boosted a... more

ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual

In January we commenced sales of Version I of the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual, to date over 100 copies have been sold to specifiers and members of industry.

ASAA Director Colin Cass recently confirmed that Standards Australia are not going to produce a stone standard. Colin Cass advised, "I believe the ASAA manual will be the de-facto Australian standard for the design, selection, installation and maintenance of stone. The manual provides guidance on the selection of stone, the design of the system, installation details as well as maintenance. The people who worked on the ASAA manual have a wealth of knowledge and experience and the document has been reviewed by respected industry professionals. I am sure
that there will be a few glitches, but continuing peer review will see this manual become the essential guide for the stone industry.”
 
To order a copy of the 388 page manual and CD, call Victoria Philbert on 03 9888 3587 or email victoriap@infotile.com.au The cost to members and architects is $150 + GST, non-members $300 + GST.

ASAA YouTube Video
Commencing in April, ASAA will prepare 3 videos - Australian Stone;  Imported Stone; Allied Products; which will display a selection of members products on YouTube. The videos will also link to the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual, the Association website and Discovering Stone magazine. Members should urgently contact Tony Stock to discuss this opportunity.

New ASAA Board
At the ASAA AGM on January 31, the following Directors were appointed;

Ian Lamble (Melocco Stone)
Rolf Offerhaus (Ardex Australia)
Jim Mann (Stone Initiatives)
Peter Mitchelhill (CDK Stone Australia)
Colin Cass (Techtile Consulting)
Nigel Ferguson (Edstein Creative Stone)
Anthony Stock (Australian Tile Publications Pty Ltd)

Tile & Stone Gala Ball
ASAA and the Australian Tile Council are joining forces to present a variety of industry awards at the Stone & Tile Gala Industry Dinner, which will be held on Friday August 26 in Sydney. The event will be co-organised by ASAA and corporate events specialists The Forum Group. Details of the venue, awards and live band will be announced in the March edition of Discovering Stone.
The ASAA Architectural Stone Awards will be adjudicated by members of the Australian Institute in May. The awards will be presented at the Stone & Tile Gala Dinner.

ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual

In January we commenced sales of Version I of the ASAA Natural Stone Design Manual, to date over 100 copies have been sold to specifiers and members of industry.

ASAA Director Colin Cass recently confirmed that Standards Australia are not going to produce a ston... more

SICIS remains a legend in the world of mosaics. Revered for their exceptionally exquisite Italian mosaics, made in Ravenna, SICIS continues to entice by preserving their admirably high artisanal standards and seeking out cutting edge technology. Enviably innovative in their modus operandi, SICIS’s new collaboration with Mr Christian Lacroix highlights this. Hailed as a fashion world genius, he always charged Haute Couture with his magical, whimsical charm. Defining original, few can forget his arched sense of cut, his delightful way with embellishment and extraordinary gift for color. As can be imagined, all of Mr Christian Lacroix's fabled talents have been poured into his SICIS home furnishing collection. Indeed, just as his couture shows outshone via drama and flair, his furniture has furthered such elements with cunning radicalism. True, all the pieces illustrate SICIS’s commitment to esteemed creative endeavor and continued savoir faire. In partnership with Mr Christian Lacroix masterful hands, they revolutionize the world of lifestyle with poetic insouciance.

Being a brilliant and cultured taste maker, Mr Christian Lacroix has been a recognized force in interior decoration for some time. In tremendous demand, he has dreamt up illustrious hotels, cinemas and theatres. Still, little is known of furniture titillating him since childhood and playing just as prominent a role in his memory bank as clothes. “My inspiration has always come through images, has been exalted by words and turned magnificent thanks to decoration,” he says. Excited by his relationship with SICIS, he is thoroughly impressed by their imagination, open-mindedness and “the sky is the limit” attitude. Mr Christian Lacroix also acknowledges that, thanks to SICIS’s daring and energy, the mosaic is now accepted as a deeply contemporary and artistic embellishment. Wildly inspired by the illustrious history of mosaics in Ravenna particularly in connection with the Byzantine Empress Theodora, Mr Lacroix was reminded of Arles, his hometown and romantic region renowned for well-preserved Roman tiles and sought after antiquities. “Having the privilege of being brought up between monuments, museums and 17th century houses – all well-steeped in the history of art - gave me the confidence that everything could be mixed up, particularly the most extreme styles such as baroque, neo-classical, post-modern, kitsch and pop.” However, with regard to the furniture’s enviably sensual shapes, Mr Lacroix demonstrates his practical and grounded side, stressing that amongst the curves and contours, comfort was a key consideration. Meanwhile, to enhance the magnificence of the mosaics – exuberantly colorful and jewel-like in appeal – he used them sparingly, opting for a light, subtle hand. Elegant as ever, Mr Lacroix’s main goal was to create furniture conjuring up “refinement and individuality.”

From April 12 - 17, the collection of furniture designed by Mr Christian Lacroix will be presented at the Salone del Mobile Milan fair in a new exquisite SICIS lifestyle set-up. From June 2011, it will be distributed worldwide in all of SICIS’s showrooms.

SICIS France : ADC communication – Alix de Chabot
adechabot@adc-communication.com / tel + 33 (0)1 73 06 98 91

SICIS remains a legend in the world of mosaics. Revered for their exceptionally exquisite Italian mosaics, made in Ravenna, SICIS continues to entice by preserving their admirably high artisanal standards and seeking out cutting edge technology. Enviably innovative in their modus operandi, SICIS’s new collaboration with Mr Christian Lac... more

The Italian ceramic tile industry is experiencing a recovery, in spite of the many difficulties caused by the ongoing contraction of the national building sector. Sales are thought to have increased by 0.8 per cent in 2010 due to a 2.7 per cent rise in international sales, which compensated for the 3.5 per cent drop in local demand. These preliminary figures were slightly underwhelming after an impressive third-quarter of the year which saw particularly strong performances in the crucial export markets of Russia, Asia, France and Germany, and the United States of America. This unfortunate decline in the final three months of last year was primarily caused by adverse climactic conditions that greatly affected the export market. Ceramic tile manufacturers in Italy increased their output by an estimated 4.9 per cent in 2010.

Modest growth is forecast for 2011 with early estimates pointing to a 3.6 per cent rise in production and a 1.7 per cent increase in sales (0.1 per cent in Italy and 2.3 per cent elsewhere). Progress of this nature will ensure that output and sales both exceed 400 million square metres, corresponding to a value of roughly 4.7 billion euro. Although these figures fall far short of pre-crisis levels, signs of consolidation and growth in the Italian industry are welcome indeed.

The Italian ceramic tile industry is experiencing a recovery, in spite of the many difficulties caused by the ongoing contra... more

Standards Australia will be holding information seminars across the country in February 2011 to educate industry and relevant stakeholders on the soon to be announced revised version of AS 2870 Residential Slabs and Footings.

The seminars will provide a systematic run through of the Standard, identifying key changes and providing the background for those changes. They will also explain the findings of relevant recent research.

Standards Australia will be conducting seminars at participating university campuses:

•    Monday, 7 February - Sydney
•    Tuesday, 8 February - Brisbane
•    Wednesday, 9 February - Melbourne
•    Thursday, 10 February - Hobart
•    Monday, 14 February - Perth
•    Tuesday, 15 February - Adelaide
 
For further event information and registration visit: http://www.gsb.uts.edu.au/edu/ASSeminar2870.html

The seminars will be relevant for Engineers (Structural/Civil/Environmental); Project and Maintenance Managers; Local and State Government staff handling tenders; Concrete Suppliers, Repair Contractors, Suppliers and Builders.

The presenters will include:

•    Mr Eric Fox CPEng, RPEQ, Consulting Engineer
•    Dr Don Cameron BEng (Civil Eng), MEng (Civil Eng), PhD, University of Sydney

The revised standard is a result of extensive consultation with stakeholders including industry, government and consumers.

Media Contact    Nicholas Davy, 0405 506 457
Communications & Public Affairs Manager
nicholas.davy@standards.org.au

Standards Australia will be holding information seminars across the country in February 2011 to educate industry and relevant stakeholders on the soon to be announced revised version of AS 2870 Residential Slabs and Footings.

The seminars will provide a systematic run through of the Standard, identifying key changes and prov... more

An art project by SICIS for Mr. Tata Private Collection

"Stop Indians ahead" is the graphic concept proposed to SICIS and TATA by the Indian mixed-media artist Ketna Patel.

TATA supplied two Nano cars and SICIS re-elaborated and adapted the concept to cover the outside of the cars with artistic mosaic: the graphic adaptation and the technical, installation work was entirely done in Ravenna by the experienced SICIS team.

SICIS manufactured, supplied and installed the mosaic on the outside shell of the cars. The skilful SICIS design team acted as ‘tailors’ and cut and paste Ketna’s design together, installing the colourful, artistic mosaic by hand on top of the shell of every external surface of the vehicle.

One SICIS Nano will be destined to Mr. Tata himself for his private art collection; the other one will be shipped back to India and will follow an artistic itinerary through shows/art galleries, like the 'Delhi Art Summit' exhibition in New Delhi on the 25th of January, a project handled by Indigo Blue Art Gallery.

The mosaic concept is the following: the car is a mirror for all the conversations that take place on Indian streets, with no order or symmetry. Chaotic conversations, full of smells, sounds and colour. It is like some noisy jazz, and not a classical symphony. The mosaic design doesn’t have neat divisions between the characters appearing on the car... they all interflow with each other. The artwork is wrapped around the Nano as one noisy, endless story, just like India!

Pop coloured mosaics of SICIS Murano Collection were used, such as lime green, bright yellow, hot red, florescent pink, black & white… also, stripes, perspective, and parallels with zebra crossings were used to introduce movement, direction, and give the work energy and a dose of psychedelia, to recall the atmosphere and energy of Indian streets.

For traditional Indian transport, such as bullock carts or rickshaws, female nicknames are given. These vehicles are often the main livelihood of the family, so they are like second wives: objects of desire, often decorated with flowers, and treated with love and respect, just like women. These SICIS Nano cars are a celebration of that female energy. Creative, joyous and beautiful.

The TATA Nano car is a replacement for all the unsafe motorcycles where entire families would ride, with no protection. These cars are not meant to be fast, which is why the artist is using the metaphors of speed and ‘stopping’ or ‘braking’, as a sign to India to slow down in its growth and to recheck its values.

About TATA NANO
The Tata Nano is a low-cost, four-passenger city car built by the Indian company Tata Motors, aimed primarily at the Indian domestic market, which began selling in 2009. It’s the cheapest “no frills” car in the world today, with a price little more than US $2,000, the Nano is within reach of many Indian families who could not previously afford an automobile.

An art project by SICIS for Mr. Tata Private Collection

"Stop Indians ahead" is the graphic concept proposed to SICIS and TATA by the Indian mixed-media artist Ketna Patel.

TATA supplied two Nano cars and SICIS re-elaborated and adapted the concept to cover the outside of the cars wi... more

In 2010 the Italian ceramic machinery manufacturers are expecting to maintain last year's turnover levels.

"The fall in turnover suffered by the sector from late 2008 through 2009 finally bottomed out in 2010, "observed Pietro Cassani, Chairman of the Italian ceramic machinery and equipment manufacturers' association Acimac, commenting on the preliminary figures for 2010.

In the twelve months of the current year, the sector's turnover is estimated to have risen slightly to 1.242 billion euro, up 1.2% on 2009.

This is an encouraging result that has also confirmed the international scale of the Italian ceramic machinery industry, which generates more than 75% of its turnover from exports.

The strong international presence of Italian companies, who remain the world leaders in terms of process innovation, has enabled the Italian ceramic machinery manufacturers to benefit in recent months from the recovery under way in a number of important regions, including the Middle East, Asia and South America. These regions, noted Cassani, "will play a crucial role in maintaining our world leadership in the next few years".

The initial forecasts for 2011 are also positive.

"Our companies are expecting an initial recovery in world markets in 2011, allowing us to partly make up for the severe losses suffered in 2009 when the sector's turnover plummeted by 33%. We are anticipating total turnover growth of between 10% and 15%, "Cassani concluded. 

In 2010 the Italian ceramic machinery manufacturers are expecting to maintain last year's turnover levels.

"The fall in turnover suffered by the sector from late 2008 through 2009 finally bottomed out in 2010, "observed Pietro Cassani, Chairman of the Italian ceramic machinery and equipment manufacturer... more

From premier stone producers and masonry companies to consumables and consultancies, Stone Federation members cover all bases, with the expanded Stone Federation Village at the hub of the show.

Highlights include Johnsons Wellfield one of the UK leaders in sustainable engineered natural stone. Their intricate planters adorning Tudor Square, Sheffield offer an insight into the advances made in Yorkstone’ production and the degree to which previous manufacturing boundaries have been surpassed through a continued investment in the latest low energy’ production technology.

Other UK quarrier members exhibiting include Albion Stone, Realstone, Great Tew Farm Partnership, Bath Stone, Creeton Quarry, Lovell Purbeck and Forest of Dean Stone Firms.

International members Geiger and Solnhofen Stone Group will be promoting a range of German limestone’s and sandstones with both companies featuring in past Award winning UK projects.

Leading stonemasonry companies in restoration, conservation and New Build will be in attendance including Group Monument Master Stone Masons and The Stonewest Group. Stonewest boast an impressive portfolio of recent projects including the multi award winning preservation of St Paul’s Cathedral, the refurbishment of St Pancras International and The World Square project -Trafalgar Square.

Specialist knowledge from the industry’s most respected consultancies will be available from BRE, Sandberg, Harrison Goldman and PGWA & Associates. Whether it’s guidance on the selection and use of stone, expertise on the implementation of European standards and ISO9001 compliant management systems or UKAS accredited laboratory testing, help is at hand.

The stone cleaning façade gommage’ system from Thomann-Hanry will be presented emphasising its sustainability credentials with no water or chemicals used throughout the process.

In the adhesive market, Ardex UK will be exhibiting a range of tile adhesives and grouts which benefit from their Rapidry Formula Technology’ and Mapei will promote their Ultraflex S2 Quick’ a high performance, highly flexible adhesive with significant environmental advantages being developed with 20 per cent recycled material.

And for the cleaning and sealing of your natural stone, Lithofin will present their market leading range including the new MN Stain Stop Eco, a ready to use impregnator which is water based and nearly odourless.

For exhibitor enquiries
Tel: +44 (0)115 945 3889
Email: stoneshow@qmj.co.uk

From premier stone producers and masonry companies to consumables and consultancies, Stone Federation members cover all bases, with the expanded Stone Federation Village at the hub of the show.

Highlights include Johnsons Wellfield one of the UK leaders in sustainable engineered natural stone. Their intricate planters adorni... more

Time is advancing, as we unconsciously step into the cold winter in North China. However, as the organizer of the 18th China International Building Decorations & Building Materials Exposition, we feel extremely warm with the support of so many exhibitors.

At the beginning of recruitment in May, we planned to open 9 standard halls, covering 120,000sqm, setting 6,000 booths. However, the robust recovery of China's economy is accelerated. Against this backdrop, the exhibitors unprecedentedly pursued Build+Decor 2011. Most of the booths have been booked by the exhibitors from domestic and abroad in less than three months. In order to meet such a great demand, we have gradually launched five temporary halls, especially for the exhibitors from wallpaper, textile, glass, windows and doors industry.

Visitors favour one-stop shopping more. They would like to purchase all they need in one place at a time.

From ceilings to floors, from fashion wallpapers to fine doorknobs, all are covered in Build+Decor 2011. Even foreign building materials supermarkets, like Harnbach which enjoys a reputation in Europe, have submitted an official application to visiting Build+Decor 2011 with a bulk of buyers.

It's still not too late to start thinking about your participation. Join us now!

For more details, please visit: www.build-decor.com

Time is advancing, as we unconsciously step into the cold winter in North China. However, as the organizer of the 18th China International Building Decorations & Building Materials Exposition, we feel extremely warm with the support of so many exhibitors.

At the beginning of recruitment in May, we planned to open 9 standa... more

The results for the first nine months of 2010 posted by GranitiFiandre Group contrast strongly with the situation in the sector and the economy as a whole. All the group’s balance sheet indices have shown sharp growth, including consolidated sales volumes, which have reached 148.2 million euro (5.1% up on the corresponding period in 2009). The strongest growth was reported in the third quarter when group turnover rose by 6.6%. Brand sales performed even more strongly, achieving a 7.2% increase in the first 9 months (10.5% in the third quarter alone) in spite of the negative effects of a weak and fluctuating construction market. The increases in overall volumes are a combined result of substantially stable sales in Italy (+0.9% for brand materials) and Europe (-2.3%) and excellent performances in non-European markets (+20.8%), most notably by the US subsidiary StonePeak Ceramics Inc. which posted a 25% increase in turnover to 30 September.

Operating margins were also very positive, with EBITDA up to 20.7 million euro (+22.4%), corresponding to 14% of turnover (6.8 million euro in the 3rd quarter, +24.2%). The parent company GranitiFiandre contributed 9.5 million euro to this figure, StonePeak 5.9 million euro and the German subsidiary Porcelaingres 4.3 million euro. EBITDA amounted to 8.9 million euro (+27.3%, corresponding to 6% of turnover), a value up by about 1.5 million euro on the EBIT of the whole of 2009 (3.0 million euro in the 3rd quarter, +40.5%).

The final result is a net profit of 5.2 million euro compared to 0.6 million euro to 30 September 2009, more than 5 times higher than the net result of the entire previous business year.

The Group’s outlook for the future is very positive, buoyed by prestigious orders secured during the quarter for the supply of “Active Clean Air & Antibacterial Ceramic™” materials for projects that include Mirafiori Motor Village FIAT and the new Granarolo headquarters. A further two major orders have come from Japan, where large-format tiles will be supplied for the new Haneda airport and for one of Tokyo’s most renowned 5-star hotels.

The results for the first nine months of 2010 posted by GranitiFiandre Group contrast strongly with the situation in the sector and the economy as a whole. All the group’s balance sheet indices have shown sharp growth, including consolidated sales volumes, which have reached 148.2 million euro (5.1% up on the corresponding period in 200... more

More British Stone Than Ever - A Sustainable Solution!

The Natural Stone Show is back at ExCeL London next March and whilst it is as international as ever with exhibitors showing stone from around the world, there will also be a record number of British producers attending.

Highlights include Lovell Purbeck showcasing their Purbeck Marble (Viviparus) and Burr Limestone; Stoke Ground Bath Stone from the Bath Stone Group and the latest Portland Stone from Albion Stone’s Jordans quarry; Guiting Gold and Cotswolds Cream from Johnson Quarry Group’s recently acquired Oathill quarry.

Paving product Royal Forest Penant sandstone from Forest of Dean; Award winning Ancaster Weatherbed and Scotch Buff from Realstone; A range of stunning Penrhyn slates from Welsh Slate; Ancaster Hard White and Clipsham from Goldholme Stone.

Cresswell Buff, one of the 14 indigenous stone supplied by Historic Stone; The heritage Churchfield stone being revived through PGWA ; English limestone flagstones from the Metheringham quarries of Centurian Dimensional Stone and specialist Morayshire cobbles from Tennants Elgin.

The subtle hues of British limestone, sandstone and slate that have always attracted the discerning architect, interior designer and landscaper are eminently environmentally friendly.

Dimension stone production is an essentially low energy and sustainable process with the stone removed from the face in large blocks and normally sawn. The electric saw does not need to consume vast amounts of energy to cut stone using nothing like as much as the high energy kilns required to make the cement used in concrete products.

Remove the transport element of CO2 emissions by sourcing local stone and you have a product that can make considerable contributions to low carbon development.

Add to that the low maintenance longevity of stone that improves its environmental credentials in lifetime costing and you have an almost perfect ecological building material ideal for cladding, walling, paving, roofing, floor and wall tiles, shower trays, worktops and furniture.

Come and specify your sustainable building material at the Natural Stone Show 2011.

For exhibitor enquiries:
Tel: +44 (0)115 945 3889 or Email: stoneshow@qmj.co.uk

More British Stone Than Ever - A Sustainable Solution!

The Natural Stone Show is back at ExCeL London next March and whilst it is as international as ever with exhibitors showing stone from around the world, there will also be a record number of British producers attending.

Highligh... more

The 18th China International Stone Processing Machinery, Equipment and Products Exhibition. The leading stone trade fair in China!

Exhibition Venue:  China International Exhibition Center, No.6 East Beisanhuan Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100028, China
Exhibition Date:      April 20 to April 23, 2011
Opening Hours:      9:00 am to 17:00 pm
Official Website:    www.stonetech.org.cn
Frequency:               Annual-One year in Beijing, one year in Shanghai
Organizers:
                                   China Stone Material Association
                                   CCPIT Building Materials Sub-council
                                   CIEC Exhibition Company Limited
Sponsors:
                                   China Council for the Promotion of International Trade
                                   China Building Materials Industry Association

Exhibition Profile
As the capital of China, Beijing is also the north economic center of China. And nearly 40% of annual total stone products (slabs, tile, and cut-to-sizes, etc.) are consumed here, or resold to the other cities of China. There is no doubt that Beijing is the ideal place for ambitious companies to expand their Chinese market share. Fortunately, STONETECH, with its 17-year glorious experience in this industry, has become the important gateway to the stone industry with China's fast economic development.

STONETECH covers the whole industrial chain, fully demonstrates the development of stone sector. Companies from 26 foreign countries and regions as well as the local industry clusters treat STONETECH as the must-attended event in China. STONETECH2011 BEIJING will be held from April 20-23, 2011 as scheduled. And the final exhibiting space is expected to surpass 75,000 square meters finally, thanks to the brisk demand from the Chinese market, and the stone industry here is undergoing the recovering period.

Exhibit Profile
Marble, granite and other stone products
        Tiles slabs and blocks
        Artificial granite and marble
        Special shaped products, tome stone

Machinery, equipment and technology
        Quarrying & cutting equipment
        Processing and grinding
        Diamond tools & products
        Materials handling equipment
        Polishes, sealant & adhesives
        Abrasive refinishing and restoration equipment

Other stone related material and products
        Glue& other chemicals
        Design & construction
        Associations
        Publication & internet
        Consulting services

For further information and applying booth/space, please feel free to contact us.

STONETECH Organizing Committee
CIEC Exhibition Company, Ltd.
1/F, General Service Building6 East Beisanhuan Road, Beijing 100028, China
Tel: 86 10 8460 0335/0341/0804
Fax: 86 10 8460 0325/0740//0741
Contacts:
Mr. Leo Wang: wangbaoliang@ciec.com.cn;
Ms. Lydia Sun: sunying@ciec.com.cn
Mr. Kevin Wang: wangbingzhe@ciec.com.cn

The 18th China International Stone Processing Machinery, Equipment and Products Exhibition. The leading stone trade fair in China!

Exhibition Venue:  China International Exhibition Center, No.6 East Beisanhuan Rd, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100028, China
Exhibition Date:      April 20 to... more

IIEA, the e-learning school for industry, offers a course on “Ceramic rheology” for ceramic technicians.

The rheological behaviour of ceramic suspensions is one of the fundamental parameters for optimal production of ceramic tiles. For this purpose, IIEA is offering ceramic industry technicians the first e-learning course on “Ceramic rheology”.

The aim of the course is to provide the practical and theoretical foundations for understanding the rheological behaviour of ceramic suspensions. It provides a practical tool for in-company control of suspensions, allowing changes that are potentially harmful for the process to be identified and new suspensions with the required rheological characteristics to be developed. It also enables the parameters that affect the rheology of the ceramic suspensions used by the company to be identified and monitored.

The course fully exploits the advantages of the internet as an alternative to normal classroom activities and as an opportunity to create highly effective and economically advantageous training programmes. Its practical methodology combines a range of tools (texts, images, video) in an interactive, multimedia approach that makes extensive use of case histories, simulations and practical lessons.

For further information visit the internet site www.iiea-school.it.