President of the Cosentino Group Provides Insights into His Upcoming Presentation of Industry Trends at KBIS 2014
With less than two weeks until Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and the the launch of Design & Construction WeekTM, with the International Builders’ Show (IBS), Francisco “Paco” Martinez-Cosentino, President of the Cosentino Group, shares insights members of the kitchen and bath industry can expect to hear as he delivers this year’s State of the Industry Address at KBIS:
What are the biggest challenges facing the kitchen and bath industry in 2014?
“The challenge lies in continuously meeting demand for innovative products that address the ever-evolving needs of the market. To do that, successful manufacturers need to connect with and understand their customers, and deliver products that meet their needs. Furthermore, these products must reflect global design and technology trends, while remaining cognizant of global economic and increased competition.”
How do you see the industry changing?
“Manufacturers are continuously pushing the envelope with the development of proprietary technologies that create enhanced and improved surfacing products that will not only stand the test of time, but will offer flexible solutions for a range of design challenges. Now, more than ever, technology is driving more than just product advancement – it’s dictating how our customers use their spaces and the industry will continue to evolve to reflect that. From antibacterial surfaces to motion sensor sinks and cabinetry that closes on its own, technology is rapidly changing every aspect of these critical spaces in the home. We’re also seeing the industry harness technology to innovate its supply chain. At Cosentino, we’ve developed a new logistics warehouse that will allow us to meet worldwide market demand by automating the storage and loading process. In fact, Cosentino, leads the charge on surface innovation, from continually improving color technology to the significant R&D commitment in the development of Dekton — it’s at the core of our operations.”
What have been the biggest changes you’ve seen in the industry throughout your career?
“Since founding of the Cosentino Group in the late 1970s, and introducing Silestone in the early 1990s, the industry has undergone an incredible amount of change. I’ve witnessed an incredible amount of technology and have seen first-hand how it has changed the landscape of the surfacing industry. For example, at Cosentino, we have created the first ultra-compact surface, Dekton, by utilizing Particle Sintering Technology, a proprietary technique that mimics the metamorphic change that rocks and stone undergo in nature when subjected to heat and pressure over thousands of years.
“The popularity for natural stone products has continued to evolve year after year, with a strong emphasis on design and performance. We have also seen how within the design and construction world, professions are starting to merge, where designers, project managers and construction professionals function as a more integrated unit. Another great innovation that has greatly benefited our industry is the prevalence of the Internet and social media. Today, global design has become of great importance as it serves as a critical guideline for consumer preferences and choices.”
What does the creation of Design & Construction week and the co-location of KBIS and IBS mean for the industry?
“The co-location of these shows, and the creation of Design and Construction week, has positive advantages for the associations and its members, general attendees and exhibitors, as it will become an essential vehicle for connecting with existing customers and reaching new markets. While the global building and construction industry has been impacted by economic challenges, we are confident it’s moving forward in a positive direction supported by renovations of high-use areas of the home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, and also by commercial projects in the healthcare, education and retail. The companies that are prepared to embrace these changes and challenges, and drive product innovation and value to their customers will be able to develop their business further and continue to succeed. For Cosentino, the co-location of these two strong industry shows will allow us to continue using tradeshows as an effective platform to bring new products to a continually expanding and diverse client base.”
To learn more about the trends, challenges and exciting opportunities happening within the kitchen and bath industry, register now at kbis.com to attend the KBIS 2014 State of the Industry Address on Wednesday, February 5 at 1:30PM in room N219-222 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.
About KBIS
KBIS, in conjunction with the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) is an inspiring, interactive platform that showcases the latest industry products, trends and technologies. KBIS is the voice of the kitchen and bath industry and has been for 50 years.
Early in 2013, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) announced an agreement to co-locate the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) with the International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Las Vegas, Nevada beginning in February 2014 under the banner of “Design and Construction Week.” The new mega-event will be held Feb. 4-6, 2014, in Las Vegas with each show occupying a separate hall. Kitchen and bath brands that have participated in both shows can choose to exhibit in the KBIS or IBS hall. One pass will provide access to both exhibits. NKBA and NAHB will continue to produce separate educational programming and special events.
For the latest news and announcements visit www.kbis.com, follow KBIS on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KitchenBathIndustryShow and on Twitter at @KBIS2014
About the Cosentino Group
The Cosentino Group currently has 6 factories, 15 kitchen and bathroom surface production centers in the US, more than 70 distribution points or Centers worldwide, and a staff of over 2,200 spread across the globe (700 in the U.S.). From its headquarters in Almeria, Spain, the Group distributes its products and brands in more than 60 countries, and directly manages and controls its own facilities and infrastructures in 17 countries: the USA, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Norway, Italy and Portugal. Currently, almost 80 percent of its turnover comes from international markets. For more information, visit https://www.cosentinonorthamerica.com.
About the National Kitchen & Bath Association
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit trade association with over 50,000 members that has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry for 50 years. NKBA.org provides consumers with an inspiration gallery of award-winning kitchen and bath designs, as well as articles, tips, and an extensive glossary of remodeling terms. At NKBA.org, consumers can also find certified kitchen and bath professionals in their areas, submit questions to NKBA experts, and download the free NKBA Kitchen Planner and NKBA Bath Planner. To learn more, visit the NKBA Press Room at www.NKBA.org.
About Emerald Expositions
KBIS is managed by Emerald Expositions, a leading trade show producer. For more information, please visit www.emeraldexpositions.com.