Countertops & Architectural Surfaces - 2025 Q3

VOLUME 18 / ISSUE 3 • QUARTER 3, 2025 • SINGLE ISSUE $14.95

The Business of Surfaces

INSIDE:

ISFA Announces the Appointment of Laurie Weber as New CEO Page 14 Fab Shop Owners: Visual Management Systems Keep Everyone on the Same Page Page 18

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SURFACE FABRICATORS ASSOCIATION

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ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces (ISSN 2372-9821) is published quarterly by the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), with a fifth edition, a Buyers Guide, publishing in October.

Photos in this publication may not depict proper safety procedures for creative purposes. ISFA and Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine support the use of proper safety procedures in all cases and urge readers to take steps to institute such procedures.

Individual copies of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine are available at the nonmember newsstand price of $14.95. Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine is also available by annual subscription (five issues) for $30.00. ISFA members receive a complimentary annual subscription with every membership renewal. Special rates and charges apply for orders outside of the United States. To subscribe, call (888) 599-ISFA. For change of address, please include old label with new information, including both old and new ZIP codes.

Allow 3-6 weeks for address change to take effect.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine is proudly printed in the United States of America. Copyright ©International Surface Fabricators Association 2025. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without the publisher’s written consent.

Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine and the International Surface Fabricators Association assume no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Opinions expressed by contributors in this magazine are not necessarily the opinions of Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine or the International Surface Fabricators Association, but rather those of the individual writers.

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: LSC Communications c/o Countertops & Architectural Surfaces magazine 3401 Heartland Drive Liberty, MO 64068

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SURFACE FABRICATORS ASSOCIATION

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 6

CONTENTS

FEATURES 14 ISFA Announces the Appointment of Laurie Weber as New CEO 16 Welcome, Sarah Nicholas 18 Fab Shop Owners: Visual Management Systems Keep Everyone on the Same Page 22 Murran Billi for Antolini ®: the Stone Renaissance 25 Building to the Highest Standard: Neolith Exterior Cladding Approved by New York City 29 The Micromanagement Mistake That’s Killing Your Sales 31 Performance Reviews in Surface Fabrication: What Are They Meant to Do? 34

Member Profile: Going Beyond the Surface Level with ASST

38 For Your Bookshelf: Never Lead Alone — 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship

DEPARTMENTS

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8 President’s Message

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10 Calendar of Events 11 Industry News

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41 Perspectives: Laurie Weber 42 Product News 47 ISFA News 50 ISFA Associate Member Directory

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Follow us on social media! @ ISFAnow.org @ISFAnow @ISFA

7 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 8

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

ITC, Petition for Safeguard, Transshipments, SB20, Cut to Size, Tariffs, Quotas…

By Ted Sherritt, ISFA President

What does all this government talk have to do with countertops? Lots, in the current business environment in which we are operating.

As you are likely aware, a petition for safeguard relief has been submitted to the U.S International Trade Commission by the Quartz Manufacturing Alliance of America seeking relief from the serious injury caused to the domestic industry by imports of quartz surfaces.

The petition sites transshipping, anti-dumping violations, unfair trade practices by foreign governments, and other issues within the quartz slab market. The relief sought includes tariffs on imported products on both slab and cut to size imports and/or country specific quotas on materials and other things. If the petition is successful and tariffs are applied, it is safe to assume that the cost of our raw materials will increase. The extent to which the cost of raw materials change depends on the outcome of the petition. But it does have the potential to be industry changing for all of our fabrication businesses that manufacture countertops in the USA. If the petition is successful, will it help slow the increased pressure on cost reductions and margin compression that is currently affecting our businesses? Will it help protect cut and finish manufacturing jobs in the USA if tariffs on cut to size imports are significant? If the cost escalation is significant, will quartz lose its position as the #1 countertop product in the USA? Will volumes be impacted when the consumer reaches the price

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point that they will choose a different product?

Will the replacement product be granite, which is currently experiencing tariff issues as well? What other products will enter the market to replace the quartz raw materials? Or worst-case scenario, will customers defer the purchase altogether?

These are but a few of the questions that our teams and colleagues are struggling to come to grips with.

Many hours of debating, planning and strategizing have been invested in these issues as we struggle to predict the outcome of the ruling and the effect, if any, that this petition will have on the countertop fabricator industry.

But the most important step for all of us to take is to be informed of the issues. Please research the issues and understand why the petition is being filed, why it is being supported and why it is being opposed.

This is a business issue for all parties involved and companies and people will all have different objectives and motivations. Educate yourself on the issues, talk to your team, talk to your suppliers, talk to your business networks, lean on your trade associations for information. Get informed.

It is not our role as the trade association to decide what is good or bad for your fabrication business… that is your roll as the business owner/manager.

And the best decisions come after you have gained an understanding of the facts.

Inform yourself on the issue. Information truly is power.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Mark your calendars and plan to join us for these informative fall events.

Marketing Made for Makers — Webinar

Ask ISFA

Virtual Event

Virtual Event

https://www.isfanow.org/events/marketing-made-formakers9-30-2025

https://www.isfanow.org/events/askisfa10-31-2025

ISFA at ParkFest

ISFA Annual Conference 2025

https://www.isfanow.org/events/isfa-at-parkfest

Phoenix, AZ

September 30, 2025

October 1-2, 2025

Ask ISFA: A new bi-weekly webinar to connect directly with your ISFA team October 3, 2025

October 31, 2025

November 4–6, 2025 www.isfanow.org

Marble & Stone World https://www.big5global.com

Ask ISFA

Marmomac Brazil

Virtual Event

Sao Paulo, Brazil

https://www.isfanow.org/events/ask-isfa10-17-2025

www.marmomacbrazil.com.br/en/home

February 24–26, 2026

Credit: iStock.com/Surasak_K

Dubai, UAE

https://www.isfanow.org/events/ask-isfa10-3-2025

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Submit your event for consideration in Calendar of Events by emailing CEO Laurie Weber, laurie@isfanow.org.

November 24–27, 2025

Virtual Event

October 17, 2025

What’s Next?

IN THE INDUSTRY Cosentino Unveils New Design-Forward ‘City’ Showrooms in Dallas, Honolulu and Richmond Cosentino Group, the global leader in the production and distribution of innovative surfaces for architecture and design, is proud to announce the grand opening of three new Cosentino City showrooms in Dallas, Texas; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Richmond, Virginia.

These unique spaces further expand the brand’s signature City showroom model into three dynamic design markets, bringing the total to 12 in the United States and 41 worldwide.

“Each thoughtfully curated new City showroom blends our Mediterranean heritage with local style and culture, and is designed to encourage collaboration to help bring design visions to life,” said Eduardo Cosentino, EVP of Cosentino Group and CEO of Cosentino Americas.

Cosentino City Dallas Strategically located in the heart of the Dallas Design District, Cosentino’s first showroom in Texas marks a $1.76 million investment, spanning an impressive 6,200 square feet. The VIP kitchen space, created in collaboration with BauTeam and Miele, features a striking, rounded island design for hosting private demos, events and culinary activities. Additionally, Cosentino surfaces are further showcased in the spa-inspired Bathelier Concept Studio, offering an engaging bath and wellness design experience.

Cosentino City Honolulu On the island of Oahu, the new 2,900-square-foot showroom is situated in the vibrant Waterfront Plaza and is designed to complement the island lifestyle of Hawaii. The $1.5 million showroom offers a holistic and inspiring experience, featuring signature areas such as the all-encompassing Atelier, a design workshop that showcases Cosentino’s product offerings alongside an expansive selection of globally and locally sourced textiles, tile, cabinetry samples and plumbing fixtures. What’s more, the showroom is set to host monthly “Pau Hana” social gatherings in partnership with Taste of Aloha, providing networking opportunities for designers and homeowners alike.

Cosentino City Richmond With a $1.5 million investment,the 4,490-square-foot showroom is located in a 121-year-old building in Richmond’s Scott’s Addition District, an area known for its rich history and ongoing transformation into the city’s most dynamic design and cultural hub. As the company’s first showroom in the region, the state-of-the-art space serves as both a showroom and resource hub for local architects, designers and clients, placing interactive design technology and material exploration at the forefront. Key design features include a stunning and interactive bathroom studio and coworking-friendly, open meeting spaces.

Inspired by the brand’s modern and elevated identity, all three of the new showrooms showcase Cosentino’s latest product launches, including Le Chic Bohème by Silestone®, Silestone® Ukiyo — both featuring low-silica composition — and the carbon-neutral Dekton® Pietra Edition. A variety of partner brands, including Marset, Andreu World and Verges, are also prominently featured within each space, emphasizing a cohesive design experience between Cosentino and other leading brands in the industry.

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IN THE INDUSTRY Shaw Contract Expands into Porcelain and Ceramic with Stellar and Interact Shaw Contract, known globally for its commercial flooring products, has broadened its material portfolio with the introduction of two tile collections — Stellar and Interact. First unveiled at NeoCon 2025, the lines mark the company’s entry into the porcelain and ceramic category and highlight an emphasis on expressive design paired with sustainability.

Stellar: Aggregate Reimagined Stellar takes inspiration from the textures of stone and concrete aggregate, translated into a modern, sculptural porcelain. The collection comes in 12-by-24 and 24-by-48 field tiles, as well as 2-by-2 mosaics, stacked mosaics, chevron subway formats and a ceramic 18-by-48 wall panel. These formats allow flexibility across walls, floors, exteriors, backsplashes and shower areas. The intent is to provide designers with a statement material that feels substantial and architectural while remaining highly functional.

Stellar

Interact: Soft Geometry for Calm Interiors In contrast, Interact focuses on subtle dimensionality. It is a glazed ceramic wall tile line offered in 4-by-8 pressed tiles and 18-by48 rectified panels. Each tile carries a gently geometric pattern, randomly varied within the box to produce an ever-changing visual rhythm. A muted color palette and softened edges make the collection suitable for wellness-oriented spaces, hospitality settings and residential multi-family projects where a quieter, tactile aesthetic is valued.

Targeted Applications The two collections complement one another by addressing different design priorities. Stellar, with its bold aggregate-inspired visuals, is suited for projects that seek dramatic, performancedriven tile with sculptural qualities. Interact, with its calming patterns and handcrafted effect, is intended for environments where adaptability, collaboration or restorative qualities are central.

Both collections carry forward Shaw Contract’s long-standing sustainability goals. The company reports a reduction of more than 50% in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions since 2010 and has committed to material health and circularity in new product development. Stellar and Interact are designed to contribute to healthier interior environments while aligning with closed-loop manufacturing principles.

Explore the full line of Stellar and Interact at shawcontract.com.

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ISFA Announces the Appointment of Laurie Weber as CEO

By Stephen Murdoch

The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Laurie Weber as its news Chief Executive Officer.

With over 25 years of experience in association management, credentialing and workforce development, Laurie brings a proven track record of strategic leadership, operational excellence and a deep commitment to member impact.

As for what drew Laurie to the CEO role at ISFA, it was the incredible creativity and craftsmanship in the surfacing industry and the people behind it.

“The business owners and fabricators are building something meaningful every day. I saw an opportunity to help elevate their voices and make sure they’re not only recognized but supported with the right tools to grow and thrive.”

Prior to joining ISFA, she has led nationally recognized apprenticeship and certification programs, championed ethical governance and helped associations grow their reach, revenue and relevance.

Laurie brings a wealth of expertise and a visionary mindset to help drive ISFA’s grassroots group of surface fabricators.

Laurie feels there is already a strong foundation in place that can take ISFA to new heights. “We can look for opportunities to further expand education, building out a true hub of resources and strengthening our advocacy work so fabricators have a seat at the table when policies and standards are being shaped. The chance to bring my background in workforce development, credentialing, and industry standardization into this space, alongside ISFA’s existing work with the OSHA alliance and industry standard, was just too exciting to pass up.”

For the Missouri native, the new role will see Laurie work seamlessly to advance the surface industry. “Through the years, I have really focused on workforce development, credentialing and strategic growth. I’ve helped launch nationally recognized apprenticeship and certification programs, created industry standards and secured funding to make those ideas a reality. One highlight of my career was helping develop the very first national alliance with OSHA — it was groundbreaking work that really showed how associations can lead in protecting both businesses and their employees.

At my core, I love building partnerships and creating opportunities that help professionals and companies thrive.”

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As for personal goal setting for the coming years, the newly hired CEO’s greatest challenge will be making sure ISFA is truly seen as the go-to resource for fabricators. “We want the industry to turn to us not just for technical training, but also for business tools, advocacy and community. I want fabricators and business owners to feel like they have a partner in their success. That means expanding education and workforce programs, strengthening our role in industry standardization, and making sure the OSHA alliance delivers real, practical safety resources to shops of all sizes.”

Another ambitious goal will be elevating the voice of fabricators. “Too often, business owners are so focused on running their shops that their perspective gets lost at the policy or industry level. ISFA should be the place where their voice is amplified, where they can connect with peers, and where they can find the resources to solve business challenges and grow.”

Like other industries across the country, surface fabricators face several day-to-day operational challenges. “One of the biggest issues is making sure fabricators can be profitable while also navigating complex laws and regulations designed to keep employees safe. Compliance — whether it’s OSHA, silica safety or other standards — can sometimes feel overwhelming for small businesses, but it’s essential to protecting workers and ensuring our industry has a strong future. I see ISFA’s role as helping owners balance both sides: running a profitable, competitive business while doing the right thing for their teams.”

Another challenge is positioning fabrication as a viable and attractive career path. “Collectively, if we want to solve workforce shortages, we need to show young people and career changers that this industry offers real opportunity — good jobs, growth, and pride in craftsmanship.”

“ We want the industry to turn to us not just for technical training, but also for business tools, advocacy and community. I want fabricators and business owners to feel like they have a partner in their success.”

Laurie Weber ISFA CEO

Laurie encourages members of ISFA to reach out in the coming weeks and months to learn more about how they can grow alongside the association, and has already implemented a standing biweekly Ask ISFA virtual meeting starting September 5. “I want to make sure fabricators don’t feel like they’re on their own. ISFA is here to amplify their voices, provide business owners with practical tools and resources, and create a supportive community where everyone can succeed. Working together, we can create a community where people connect, share ideas, and know their voice matters.” C A B

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ISFA is pleased to welcome Sarah Nicholas on board as Technical Training & Development Coordinator!

We had the chance to sit down with Sarah recently to learn more about her background, interests and goals in her new role. Here’s what she had to say.

What drew you to the education and training side of the surfacing industry, and what experiences prepared you for this role at ISFA?

I started at the very front door of a fabrication shop as a receptionist and, over more than two decades, worked my way through nearly every role — sales, purchasing, account management, scheduling, operations, even stepping in with installs and quality control when needed. That journey gave me a 360 degree view of how shops operate, what fabricators really face, and how every department connects. Along the way, I found my passion in mentoring, problem-solving and helping others grow. That’s what pulled me toward education and training — because I know firsthand the difference the right tools, knowledge and encouragement can make for people in this industry.

the next generation, strengthening shop culture, finding smarter ways to run operations, and yes, making sure safety is at the foundation. But it’s also about helping shops become more profitable, more efficient, and more connected to their communities.

No two fabrication businesses are exactly the same, but they all share the same need to grow stronger, smarter and more resilient.

How do you hope to support ISFA members in their professional development and day-today business challenges?

By being someone who understands their world.

I’ve been on their side of the desk, on their shop floor, and on their job sites. I want members to know I’m here to listen, to support, and to turn their challenges into practical tools and resources they can actually use. Whether it’s helping with training, efficiency, workforce development, or profitability, my goal is to help members feel capable, connected, and confident in running their businesses.

What do you see as the biggest opportunities for education and training in the fabrication industry right now?

Are there particular training programs or resources you’re most excited to develop or expand for ISFA members?

The biggest opportunity is to elevate the entire fabricator experience. That includes onboarding

I’m excited about programs that blend technical knowledge with real-world application. That

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includes role-based onboarding frameworks, workforce development initiatives, and resources that address both shop performance and culture. I also see opportunities to create more interactive, conversation-driven training — things like Q&A forums, peer learning, and bridging across materials like solid surface, natural stone, quartz and porcelain. The most exciting part is knowing that the resources we build today can shape the fabricator experience for years to come.

What’s the best way for members to share their training needs or ideas with you?

Reach out directly — by phone, email, or even pulling me aside at an event. The best ideas come straight from fabricators who are living this every day. I want those conversations, because they’re what keep training relevant and impactful.

“I’m excited about programs that blend technical knowledge with real-world application.

That includes role-based onboarding frameworks, workforce development initiatives, and resources that address both shop performance and culture.

I also see opportunities to create more interactive, conversationdriven training — things like Q&A forums, peer learning, and bridging across materials like solid surface, natural stone, quartz and porcelain.”

Sarah Nicholas ISFA Technical Training & Development Coordinator

What’s one fun fact about you that ISFA members might not expect?

I’m a big believer in joy. I love music and recently started learning guitar as a new way to tell my story. I love to dance, laugh, and connect with people, and I bring that same energy into my work. For me, building community — whether through music, conversation or industry leadership — is what life is all about. C A

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EDUCATION CONNECTION

By Ed Young

You’re walking through your shop, and it feels like you’re the only one who knows what’s going on. Questions are flying at you: “When is this job due?” “Where’s the slab for this project?” “Are we on track for tomorrow’s install?” You’re pulled in a million directions, and before you know it, you’re spending your day chasing answers instead of making real progress.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But what if I told you that a few simple tools could put everyone in your shop on the same page — without constant interruptions or endless meetings? This is where visual management systems come in, enabling accountability while reducing chaos.

Let’s dive into how they work and why they’re a game-changer for countertop fabricators like you.

Why Meetings and Micromanagement Aren’t the Answer We’ve all been there: meetings that interrupt workflow, waste time, and still leave people confused. By the time everyone’s “updated,” half the day is gone, and your team is playing catch-up.

Meanwhile, micromanagement may seem like a

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way to ensure accountability, but it does more harm than good. It breeds resentment, saps motivation, and creates a culture where employees rely on you for every decision.

What’s the alternative? A visual management system that empowers your team to take ownership of their work, fosters accountability and provides clarity — all without the need for constant oversight.

What is a Visual Management System?

A visual management system is a way to make critical information visible and accessible to everyone. Think of it as your shop’s central nervous system. Instead of relying on verbal updates or email chains, you use tools like boards, signs and markers to communicate job priorities, production statuses and deadlines.

For fab shops, this could look like: •

A color-coded schedule board showing each job’s progress (e.g., template, fabrication, install).

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Tags on slabs that indicate the job phase.

Credit: iStock.com/akindo

Fab Shop Owners: Visual Management Systems Keep Everyone on the Same Page

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Buffer health zones marked on the floor to highlight bottlenecks.

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A CNC maintenance checklist displayed next to the machine.

These tools allow your team to see the big picture and their role in it at a glance — no need to call a meeting or hunt someone down for answers.

The Key Elements of a Successful Visual Management System For a visual management system to work effectively, it needs to have these key elements: 1. Simple and Clear

This isn’t about fancy technology; it’s about clarity.

Everyone, from your polishers to your installers, should be able to glance at the board and know exactly what’s happening. Avoid clutter and stick to the essentials.

2. Real-Time Updates

Outdated information is worse than no information.

Assign someone to update the boards on a regular schedule during the day. This ensures your team can trust the system to reflect reality.

3. Location, Location, Location

Place visual tools where they’re needed most. For example, position a daily job board near the shop entrance, maintenance checklists by the machines, and buffer zones in staging areas. Make it impossible to miss.

4. Team Involvement

Empower your employees to help design the system and contribute to its upkeep. When the team owns the system, they’ll trust it and rely on it. Plus, it reduces the burden on you to keep everything running. Be open to ongoing suggestions from the team to improve the system.

Types of Visual Tools You Can Use in Your Shop Here are some specific tools that can transform how your shop operates: Daily Job Boards

A whiteboard listing each day’s jobs, their current status, and who’s responsible for each task. For example, a column for “Template,” “Cut,” “Polish” and “Install” can show where every job is in the pipeline. Want to know who’s responsible for cutting that backsplash? Look at the board.

Color-Coded Job Tags

Attach tags to slabs or A-frames indicating the job phase. Use green for template, yellow for cut, and red for install-ready. This system makes it easy for anyone in the shop to locate what they need without wasting time. For even more detail, investigate systems like SPEEDlabel and others for tagging each piece in your shop.

Buffer Health Zones

Paint buffer zones on the floor to show where jobs should be staged. For example, a “Red Zone” would indicate jobs ready for install. If a zone is overflowing, it’s time to address upstream bottlenecks.

Equipment Maintenance Charts

Post a simple checklist for each machine so that operators can perform daily maintenance consistently. Having them initial each task daily ensures preventive maintenance is completed consistently and avoids costly breakdowns.

Customer Communication Screens

Use digital displays in the showroom or sales office to show real-time updates on lead times, production progress or upcoming installs. This keeps your sales team informed and avoids unnecessary

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EDUCATION CONNECTION interruptions. Giving sales teams access to view those stats in your shop management software package can be a good alternative.

1. Identify Pain Points: What’s causing confusion or bottlenecks? Where do you get the most questions from? Start there.

How Visual Systems Foster Accountability Without Micromanagement

2. Choose One or Two Tools: Don’t try to do it all at once. Test a daily job board or label buffer zones first.

When your shop has a solid visual management system, accountability happens naturally. Here’s how: •

Clear Roles and Responsibilities: When it’s clear who’s responsible for what, your team doesn’t need you hovering over their shoulder.

They can see it for themselves and act.

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Error Reduction: Missed steps in production are often the result of unclear communication.

A visual system eliminates the guesswork, ensuring everyone knows exactly what needs to happen and when.

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Empowered Employees: Your team feels more confident and capable when they have the tools to make decisions and stay on track. This reduces dependence on you and boosts morale.

Real Results: What Happens When You Implement Visual Management Because employees know what tasks need to happen and when, there are fewer interruptions in workflow — fewer stops to ask questions. This results in jobs moving through the shop quicker.

It also increases actual work time during the day (fewer stoppages) which increases the number of tops that get completed each day.

Another result is owners and managers spend less time answering detailed questions and dealing with hour-to-hour issues. This frees them up to focus on growing and improving the business. The result is less stress for everyone along with a more profitable and sustainable business.

Getting Started in Your Shop Ready to bring visual management to your shop?

Here’s how to get started: 21 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

3. Involve Your Team: Ask for their input on how the system should work. When they help design it, they’re more likely to use it.

4. Monitor and Adjust: Track the system’s impact and tweak as needed. This isn’t a set-it-andforget-it solution.

Overcoming Common Objections Your team might resist at first. They might think it’s extra work or unnecessary. Show them how it makes their jobs easier — less time hunting for slabs, fewer surprises and clearer priorities. When they see the benefits, buy-in will follow.

Conclusion Running a shop doesn’t have to feel like herding cats. A well-designed visual management system creates accountability without chaos. It frees you up to focus on growing your business — not chasing after answers.

If you’re ready to stop babysitting your shop and start running it like a well-oiled machine, take the first step and try one visual tool today. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes. C A ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR

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In addition to having run a countertop fabrication shop, Ed is a seasoned manufacturing manager and coach who has helped hundreds of companies from single person startups to large international corporations become very successful. As a former business owner, he understands the responsibility to make payroll while also satisfying customers. Ed can be reached at ed@ fabricatorscoach.com.

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Article printed with permission from Ed Young. Read this and other helpful features online at www.fabricatorscoach.com, and check out the Fabricators Coach podcast for more helpful tips: www. fabricatorscoach.com/podcasts.

2025 ISFA Annual Conference N O V E M B E R 4 - 6 | P H O E N I X , A Z | K I M P T O N H O T E L PA L O M A R P H O E N I X

Join us in Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun, for the 2025 ISFA Annual Conference. This premier event will bring together industry professionals to inspire bold vision, spark innovation, and build lasting relationships.

R E N E W E D C O N N E C T I O N S . A DVA N C I N G T H E PAT H TO S U C C E S S .

Networking and Celebrations: Join us for an unforgettable experience, and stay tuned for registration details!

Kick off the event with a welcome reception, celebrate excellence during the awards ceremony, and connect with peers at the industry mixer.

Discover More!

Great Idea Swap and Fabricator Shop Tour: Share and discover actionable insights from industry leaders and gain behind-the-scenes knowledge into top-notch fabrication practices.

Track Education Sessions: Bring your staff to learn new skills and strategies together.

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 22

Murran Billi for Antolini®: the Stone Renaissance

Murran Billi for Antolini ®: the Stone Renaissance Antolini® MilanoDuomo Stoneroom® during Milan Design Week 2025: on display, the artworks by Murran Billi and the carved bathtub

Florence-based artist Murran Billi has conceived four unique artworks for Antolini®, each one sparking a dialogue between the raw beauty of natural stone and the expressive power of art The spirit of the Tuscan Renaissance lives on today through the collaboaration between Antolini® and Florence-based artist Murran Billi. Their partnership culminated in the unveiling of four unique projects during Milan Design Week 2025.

Antolini®’s Stoneroom®, located in the heart of Milan, served as the stage for the artworks — each representing a journey from the Renaissance to the present, through four iconic figures of the era, all linked to the de’ Medici family.

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At the heart of the project is visionary artist Murran Billi, whose work has always centered on the human figure, blending the essence of classical Italian tradition with a contemporary sensibility.

Through his collaboration with Antolini®, Murran Billi explores the dialogue between antiquity and the future, choosing natural stone as a medium to impart timeless beauty to his creations. More on detail, his works incorporate layers of paint — a technique applied to reinterpret classical marble craftsmanship and infuse it with new meaning.

For this project, Murran Billi chose four iconic women from the de’ Medici lineage as the symbolic core of his artworks – emblems of Renaissance ideals, intellectual strength and political influence.

These female figures are not only central to the cultural legacy of their time but also represent a

For this project, Murran Billi chose four iconic women from the de’ Medici lineage as the symbolic core of his artworks — emblems of Renaissance ideals, intellectual strength and political influence.

Clockwise from Upper Left: Onice Verde Persiano Light onyx by Antolini® serves as the foundation for Murran Billi’s artwork dedicated to Clarice de’ Medici Clarice Orsini, wife of Lorenzo il Magnifico, is portrayed on a slab of Onice Verde Persiano “Light”

by Antolini®, crafted by Florentine artist Murran Billi The portrait of Lucrezia de’ Medici, first daughter of Lorenzo de’ Medici and Clarice Orsini, is painted on a slab of Onice Bianco “Extra” onyx by Antolini®, interpreted by artist Murran Billi Cristallo Rosa “Wow” — natural quartz from the Exclusive Collection by Antolini® — hosts the portrait of Lucrezia Tornabuoni, mother of Lorenzo il Magnifico, painted by Murran Billi

timeless expression of power, resilience and vision.

“The de’ Medici, through their intelligence, were able not only to preserve power, but to elevate it, making the family a cornerstone in the history of art and politics”, stated Billi.

The women portrayed — Clarice de’ Medici, Clarice Orsini, Lucrezia de’ Medici and Lucrezia Tornabuoni — each inspired a dedicated artwork. Their portraits are rendered in carefully selected natural stones, chosen for their expressive qualities and symbolic resonance. Cristallo Rosa “Wow” natural quartz, from Antolini®’s Exclusive Collection, along with Onice Bianco “Extra” onyx and Onice Verde Persiano “Light” onyx from the Natural Stone Collection, give form to this homage, merging historical depth with contemporary artistic vision.

A detail: using the same natural stone chosen for Lucrezia Tornabuoni’s portrait, also a tub carved from a block of Cristallo Rosa “Wow” natural quartz.

Portrait of Florentine artist Murran Billi at Antolini® headquarters, selecting the finest natural stones for the Milan Design Week 2025 project

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Through this project, Antolini® underscores the idea that natural stone is far more than just a material or structural element — it is a living symbol of history, art and nature itself. Each slab or block holds within it the memory of geological time and the potential for artistic expression. In the hands of an artist, stone reveals its hidden soul: Veining becomes gesture, color becomes narrative and the surface transforms into a canvas where the past and the future converge. C A B 2 V

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ABOUT ANTOLINI®

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Innovation, variety, vision and quality are the four pillars that define the identity of Antolini®, an Italian company dedicated to the production of natural stone slabs for the past 69 years.

The choice of words describing the company comes from its numbers: Today Antolini® offers more than 1300 different types of stones, divided into 14 collections producing 4,500 square meters of slabs per day, reaching one million per year.

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Operative in 182 countries, Antolini® has production centers in Brazil and India, as well as management centers and showrooms distributed throughout the world all reporting to the Italian headquarters.

Its history dates back a long way: founded in 1956 in Verona­— in northeastern Italy — by Luigi Antolini, the company is now run by the new generations who carry on its historical values, maintaining the quality of Made in Italy with a spirit aimed at the constant search for technological progress and evolution in terms of design and production. antolini.com 25 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Murran Billi exploring the texture of Antolini®’s natural stone while choosing the ideal blocks to carve. Each stone represents a meeting point between nature, art and history.

Building to the Highest Standard: Neolith Exterior Cladding Approved by New York City

By James Careless

The New York City Office of Technical Certification and Research (OTCR) has approved Neolith’s sintered stone facades as an acceptable noncombustible surface for exterior wall cladding, under the 2022 New York City Construction Code (the Code). Headquartered in Almazora, Spain, Neolith is a leader in the design and manufacture of sintered stone surfaces. According to the company’s website, “Sintered stone is a material composed of natural products such as stone dust, minerals or pigments. The sintering process emulates the creation of natural igneous rocks, where minerals melt and solidify at high temperatures.”

As a result of receiving an Acceptance Letter from the OTCR, Neolith’s sintered stone facades (Neolith) are now positioned as an alternative material for external cladding in New York City. This is because Neolith meets or exceeds the Code’s requirements for quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and overall safety.

“New York City has some of the most stringent building codes in the country, especially when it comes to fire safety in dense urban environments,” said James Amendola, CEO of Neolith Americas.

“Securing OTCR approval under the 2022 Construction Code ensures that Neolith can be confidently specified for exterior applications in one of the most regulated — and influential — markets in North America.”

James Amendola CEO, Neolith Americas

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“ I believe we’ll continue to see more specifiers and developers choosing non-combustible, high-performance cladding systems — especially in cities and regions with evolving building codes.

This approval helps set a new benchmark for what’s possible in façade design.”

James Amendola

CEO, Neolith Americas

Under the OTCR’s rules, materials and assemblies that fall outside the Code’s standard prescriptive requirements must undergo rigorous technical evaluation to ensure they provide equivalent or superior performance. According to the OTCR Acceptance Letter, Neolith’s sintered stone facades satisfy the Code’s noncombustibility requirement for exterior cladding. This confirms Neolith as a viable choice for projects where enhanced fire safety and code compliance are paramount.

Not surprisingly, Amendola is grateful for the OTCR’s official endorsement of Neolith as a safe exterior cladding option. “With decades of experience in the surfacing industry, I understand how critical it is for architects and builders to have verified, code-compliant materials they can trust,” he said.

“This recognition not only validates Neolith’s technical performance but reinforces our commitment to leading with safety, reliability and innovation.”

On a larger scale, James Amendola views this achievement as a true reflection of Neolith’s general commitment to safety and performance in architectural applications. “At Neolith, we take a holistic approach to product innovation, where aesthetics, performance and safety are equally important,” he said. “This approval reinforces that mission. It demonstrates that our materials aren’t just beautiful; they’re also engineered to perform under the most stringent requirements. Whether it’s fire resistance, structural adaptability or durability, we’re 27 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

focused on providing solutions that deliver lasting value across every project type.”

One thing is certain: Neolith’s sintered stone facades were put through their paces in order to win the OTCR’s approval. “To secure approval, Neolith had to demonstrate noncombustibility, structural integrity and code compliance through extensive third-party testing and technical documentation,” said Amendola. “This included showing performance across multiple façade assembly types and proving our material could meet or exceed the safety levels established in the Code. It’s a rigorous, multi-step process that validates every aspect of the product.”

This is not the first time that Neolith has faced such stringent fire safety tests. In 2017, the company’s Neolith cladding panels installed with the Neolith Strongfix ventilated facade system successfully passed NFPA 285 testing. This result confirmed the system’s ability to limit vertical and horizontal flame propagation on multi-story facades.

“That early NFPA 285 success helped lay the groundwork for broader adoption of Neolith in exterior applications,” Amendola said. “It proved our ability to meet national fire safety requirements for multi-story applications. Since then, we’ve built on that foundation with further NFPA 285 testing across a range of wall assemblies and substrates.

This long-standing performance record gives ar-

chitects, engineers, and fabricators confidence that Neolith can be safely and consistently used in code-regulated environments.”

The secret to Neolith’s success is the very nature of sintered stone surfaces. Unlike other composite panels that include resins or combustible cores, Neolith is made entirely from natural raw materials and is inherently non-combustible. “This gives us a major advantage in fire-rated projects, especially in high-rise or urban settings where codes are strict and public safety is paramount,” said Amendola.

“You don’t have to compromise between form and function. Neolith delivers both.”

Today, Neolith exterior cladding has been successfully integrated into a wide variety of facade systems, ranging from concrete walls to metal studs and structural insulated sheathing. Furthermore, Neolith’s strength, thin profile and dimensional stability make it compatible with most ventilated facade systems and rainscreen assemblies. This adaptability gives architects and installers flexibility in choosing innovative yet safe exterior cladding without sacrificing performance or compliance.

A key aspect of Neolith’s philosophy is that sustainability and safety go hand in hand. “Our materials are made from 100% natural raw minerals, using a process that prioritizes energy efficiency, water reuse and minimal waste,” Amendola said. “Because Neolith is also highly durable and noncombustible, it contributes to long-lasting, resilient buildings.

This reduces the need for replacement and lowering the project’s overall environmental impact. It’s about offering surfaces that are as responsible as they are reliable.”

As for working with Neolith on the job site? “From a fabrication standpoint, Neolith is designed with the professional in mind,” replied Amendola. “It can be cut and installed using standard tools for sintered surfaces, and we provide detailed documentation to support every step — from layout and anchoring to code compliance. We also work closely with partners to ensure proper training and technical support, so fabricators can deliver results with con-

“ To secure approval, Neolith had to demonstrate noncombustibility, structural integrity and code compliance through extensive thirdparty testing and technical documentation.

This included showing performance across multiple façade assembly types and proving our material could meet or exceed the safety levels established in the Code.

It’s a rigorous, multi-step process that validates every aspect of the product.”

James Amendola

CEO, Neolith Americas

fidence. The goal is to make working with Neolith as straightforward and efficient as possible.”

Looking ahead, Amendola sees Neolith’s OTCR approval as playing an influential role in shaping which exterior cladding options are preferred by architects, while setting new standards in exterior surface design. “We’re seeing a growing demand for materials that offer both fire safety and environmental responsibility without sacrificing design,” he said. “OTCR’s approval positions Neolith at the forefront of that shift. I believe we’ll continue to see more specifiers and developers choosing non-combustible, high-performance cladding systems — especially in cities and regions with evolving building codes. This approval helps set a new benchmark for what’s possible in facade design.” C A B

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Introducing SurfaceMatch Pro™

The Best Color Matching in the Industry

SurfaceMatch Pro is an innovative new feature in the Integra Adhesives App, designed to make color matching seamless, accurate and easy!

Key Features Smart Scanning: Take a photo of your surface for a precise color match.

Focused Matching: Select specific areas of the surface to refine your results Visual Preview: See how different colors will look in a deck seam of the same surface before making a decision.

Popular Color: Look for popular tags to identify commonly chosen options that are more likely to be in stock with your distributor.

Download our app Integra delivers flawless results on natural stone, quartz, granite, porcelain, solid surface, and more. Engineered for a wide range of surfaces, it’s built to perform on every job.

Download our app for instant access to SurfaceMatch Pro, our color swatches and matching guides. Available on The App Store and Google Play.

part of the

The trusted adhesive manufacturer.

family of brands

www.integra-adhesives.com 29 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

For quick access to all of our products and color matches right in your pocket, download our app for iOS and Android.

Credit: iStock.com/Olivier Le Moal

The Micromanagement Mistake That’s Killing Your Sales

By Tim Saddoris

Recently I’ve talked to several Fabricators who read my article, “Your Best Customers Are On Someone Else’s Prospecting List,” and many are trying to solve the issue the WRONG way.

Here are some of the questions I’m getting asked:

I always reply, “Yes, we can do all those things — but none of them will work.”

If you feel the need to micromanage a salesperson to that extent, it might be time to find a new one.

And if you try to micromanage a great rep, they’ll be polishing their resume by the end of the week.

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Can your CRM remind my salesperson to visit a customer quarterly and then send me a confirmation report?

Let’s also be clear — landing new customers isn’t 100% the salesperson’s responsibility. Their role with prospects is to be available, accessible, and a creative problem solver.

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Can I record all their phone calls and use AI to review the conversations?

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Can I “geofence” their phones (GPS tracking) and get an alert when they drive into a customer’s parking lot?

Let’s unpack this in the context of working with a Builder, K&B, or Interior Designer:

Honestly, every time I hear these, I can’t help but think — maybe we should also check if they’re a foreign spy! BAHAHAHA!

Available — “{Prospect}, I’m here to help solve your

countertop challenges. I can help you secure better pricing, faster install dates, more material variety, or simply better communication.”

Accessible — “I’m here whenever you need me. I

can get you answers right when you need them and always be your go-to person to get things done.”

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Creative Problem Solver — “I know you want bet-

Takeaway:

This might seem like a complete approach, but it’s missing some key insights we’ve learned over the years that drive real sales success.

Yes — supporting your sales reps may require some operational changes, but don’t you want to stand out in the marketplace anyway? So, if you’re ready to shut down the CIA branch of your business, try these ideas out. And if you still insist on tracking every move your sales team makes … at least give them a cool codename like “Agent 007 CM,” “Quartz Crusader,” or “Granite Gladiator.” C A

ter pricing. How about I research a different material that fits your needs? — or — “I understand you need this installed by a certain date; let me run it up the chain. I can’t promise miracles, but I might be able to offer you some options.”

Here are some of the special tools and reports we equip all our Fabricators’ Sales Reps teams with: 1. Current Customer Health — Which accounts

need extra attention? We provide a “health score” for each customer: Are quotes trending up or down compared to last year? When was their last bid? What percentage of quotes aren’t turning into orders — and why?

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Article printed with permission from Tim Saddoris.

Read this and other insightful content on the Onyx Edge Blog at www.grandonyx.pro.

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2. Keep Score — How many new customers were

added last month? How much did they spend?

And are your reps’ compensation structures set up to reward these wins?

3. Give Prospects a Reason to Switch — Switch-

ing fabricators is a big risk. Arm your Sales Reps with a strong market advantage: “We install in 7 days,” “Commit to X square feet and we’ll give you the best price,” or “We send text updates directly to you or the homeowner.”

4. Make Problem-Solving a Regular Conversation — Ever put a list of expired quotes in front

of a customer? It’s amazing what they’ll reveal: • “How can we help you close more of those big orders?”

• “What can we do differently to help you win more deals?”

• “Let’s discuss recent shifts in the local marketplace and how to navigate them together.”

These regular conversations show you care. “I’m your sales rep, and I want to help you close more business. How can we better support you to drive more sales for both of us?”

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Landing new customers isn’t 100% the salesperson’s responsibility.

Their role with prospects is to be available, accessible, and a creative problem solver.

Image Credit: iStock.com/fizkes

Performance Reviews in Surface Fabrication: What Are They Meant to Do?

By Wendy Christie, EmployerESource

Performance reviews have long been part of managing teams across industries, but for surface fabrication businesses — where hands-on craftsmanship, precision and teamwork matter — how these reviews are conducted can make or break a company’s workforce stability and project quality. In the past, reviews were often fear-based: top-down meetings that reinforced authority without offering much direction or encouragement. The goal was compliance, not development.

Today, that mindset doesn’t cut it — especially in fabrication shops, where skilled workers are in high demand, and safety, quality and client satisfaction depend on collaboration and communication.

When done right, performance reviews help retain top talent, improve skills, and build a culture of accountability and respect.

The Purpose of Performance Reviews in Fabrication Shops The primary goal of a performance review should be to help employees grow. Whether it’s a fabricator who excels in CNC programming but struggles with deadlines, or a finisher who takes pride in quality but lacks speed, reviews offer an opportunity to guide and support continuous improvement.

Done effectively, reviews: • • • • •

Clarify expectations.

Reinforce strengths.

Identify areas for training.

Reduce errors.

Increase employee engagement.

This approach builds stronger teams and contributes directly to safer, more efficient production floors.

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Why It Matters: The Real Cost of Turnover Surface fabrication businesses often rely on a closeknit team of fabricators, installers, shop assistants and project managers. Losing even one experienced team member can throw off workflow, increase jobsite errors, and delay project timelines.

Here’s what turnover really costs: •

A shop hand or apprentice earning $40,000/ year may cost $12,000 to replace.

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A skilled stone cutter, CNC operator or lead installer making $60,000/year could cost $20,000 or more to replace.

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The disruption to production, retraining, and rework costs on projects lost to inexperience can add up fast.

Employees who receive regular feedback are more likely to be engaged, satisfied and loyal. Gallup research shows they’re almost four times more likely to stay. That makes performance reviews one of the most cost-effective ways to retain good people and avoid turnover.

Recognizing Strengths — and Realigning Gaps Not every fabricator or installer is a master at every task. Some may be highly skilled in cutting and shaping quartz but less confident in final polishing or field installations. Rather than penalize them for not being “all-around,” good managers use performance reviews to:

Review Formats That Work in Surface Fabrication The type of review you use should reflect the size of your operation and the roles you’re evaluating.

Here are a few effective options: 1. Self-Assessment Review

Have employees evaluate their own performance — how they’ve contributed to project flow, quality, or safety. This sets the stage for open, two-way conversations.

2. Supervisor Review

The most common method — managers provide structured feedback based on observed performance, punctuality, safety and teamwork.

3. 360-Degree Feedback

Useful for leads or installers who interact across departments. Feedback is gathered from peers, project managers and even clients.

4. Peer Review

Particularly useful in fabrication shops with tight teams, this helps surface feedback from co-workers who understand the day-to-day effort involved in getting the job done.

5. Rating Scale Review

A structured format using ratings across categories like safety compliance, job knowledge, equipment care, teamwork and attendance.

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Highlight strengths.

For most fabrication companies, combining a self-assessment with a supervisor review works best. It encourages employee ownership while giving leadership the opportunity to provide coaching and support.

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Discuss where additional support or training is needed.

Is It a Skill Gap or a Performance Issue?

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Identify roles that better match the employee’s skill set.

For example, a worker who struggles under pressure on tight installation timelines might thrive in the fabrication shop, where precision and steady pacing matter more than speed. Realigning their position could improve both morale and productivity.

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If an employee isn’t meeting expectations, your approach depends on the why. Are they missing skills, or are they not applying themselves?

Skill or Knowledge Gaps: Can be addressed with training, shadowing experienced workers, or revisiting standard operating procedures.

Performance Issues: May relate to unclear expectations, low morale, personal stress or team dynamics.

In surface fabrication, your people are your most valuable asset — more than tools, more than trucks, more than technology.

And retaining skilled workers isn’t just about pay.

It’s about respect, communication and shared goals.

Treating every shortfall as a disciplinary problem is a fast way to lose people. Performance reviews help you identify the real root of an issue and solve it constructively.

mistakes, improved teamwork and stronger client satisfaction.

Make Goals That Fit the Shop Floor

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A performance review should never end with vague feedback like “try harder next quarter.” Workers need clear, relevant goals to move forward. Examples in a fabrication setting might include: •

“Improve polishing turnaround time by 15% over the next 60 days.”

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“Complete OSHA 10 training before the next commercial install project.”

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“Reduce rework on mitered edge seams by 50% within three months.”

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“Shadow lead fabricator on CNC setup to gain full certification within 90 days.”

Make your review process a place where employees can: Celebrate success.

Learn from mistakes.

Plan for advancement.

Talk openly about challenges.

This culture shift improves both job satisfaction and the overall quality of your work.

Final Thoughts In surface fabrication, your people are your most valuable asset — more than tools, more than trucks, more than technology. And retaining skilled workers isn’t just about pay. It’s about respect, communication and shared goals.

Set goals that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. And always schedule a follow-up.

Performance reviews are a key part of that relationship. Use them to build trust, reduce turnover, and improve every aspect of your shop — from slab to install.

Performance Reviews Should Empower, Not Discourage

By treating reviews as tools for growth rather than judgment, you set the stage for long-term success — for your employees and your business. C A

The best performance reviews aren’t about “checking boxes” — they’re conversations about development, safety, pride in craftsmanship, and career goals. They help employees feel seen and supported, not micromanaged.

In shops where installers and fabricators feel empowered, the results speak for themselves: fewer

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR

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WENDY CHRISTIE, owner and developer of EmployerESource, has over 20 years of experience in the area of employee relations. She has handled over 100 different employee relations investigations and as a human resource consultant, she has helped countless companies develop legally compliant employee handbooks and documentation. Wendy’s focus is on helping employers avoid a potential and costly employee claim.

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MEMBER PROFILE

ISFA Fabricator: ASST Beyond Surface Level Solutions

By Stephen Murdoch For 27 years, ASST has been an industry leader in commercial, solid surface, quartz and thermoforming. Working alongside commercial construction partners, the McSherrystown, Pennsylvania-based Millworker has been providing engineered materials for interior finishes to a plethora of market sectors.

Known for their innovative, patented thermoforming technologies and product designs, ASST has built a reputation for taking on project challenges that others shy away from. Their impressive portfolio of successfully completed projects with high-profile contractors, architects, interior designers and end users, continues to grow.

Success Stems from Three Core Pillars President of ASST, Dave Yantis, attributes the company’s success to taking on the most complex projects. “Whether building custom thermoformed staircases, complex curved nurses’ stations or even solutions across large solid surface health care projects, our team embraces the intricate and the impossible. Embracing new challenges has led to significant growth, increased resilience across the company and a deeper sense of fulfillment for our team.”

With almost three decades of industry experience, ASST has built a storied legacy in commercial surfaces fabrication. “Our patented thermoforming technologies, extensive work across health care, education, corporate and retail sectors is truly unparalleled. We have consistently delivered exceptional results and take great pride in working collaboratively with our clients to ensure mutual success.”

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Yantis goes on to credit the company’s financial strength for their ability to deliver consistently. “We’re not just a fabricator — we’re a full-service partner who provides commercial coanstruction with engineered materials for interior finishes. With robust infrastructure and the ability to manage surfaces, millwork and quartz from fabrication through installation, we offer stability and reliability for high-stake projects throughout the continental United States.”

Technology Footprint as Refined as Their Craftsmanship Investing in technology has been crucial to business growth and continues to transform how ASST operates.

“We take our investments in cutting edge machining very seriously. Our shop features 5-axis KOMO CNC, two 3-axis CNCs (KOMO and Heian), plus a Schelling panel saw. These technologies, although they require programming for action, offer the best for achieving the flawlessly machined components and refined finishes our clients demand. Our fully integrated operating system sets the bar high above the industry standard, keeping in line with our decades-long commitment to our customers.”

The latest in digital templating and measurement tools have played a pivotal role in improving efficiency. “We employ calibrated digital templating systems combined with on-site photography and manual verification which pull double duty to eliminate errors and safeguard seamless installation — especially vital for quartz materials that can’t be field modified. Measure twice, fabricate once.”

The use of integrated project management systems has helped streamline and synchronize all activities and resources. “Our team relies heavily on structured SOPs and tools like FileMaker Pro to manage projects, ensure quality and provide real-time visibility into scheduling, procurement, delivery and installation phases.”

Focus Remains on Being More than a Fabricator At ASST, they take great pride in being a trusted solution provider. “We don’t just build, we invent. From our award-winning Cradle Baby Bathing Bowl, created in collaboration with healthcare professionals, to our Sculptcor textured wall panels and Modular Vanity System, our team develops solutions that combine beauty, function and durability. Each of these innovations is designed to solve real-world needs in health care, education and commercial spaces.”

Continued success remains rooted in the team’s ability to provide integrated solutions and ongoing reliability.

“Our ability to seamlessly combine solid surface, quartz and millwork fabrication under one roof allows us to manage complexity with precision. This integration gives our clients confidence that their vision will be executed on time, on budget, and exactly as intended from planning through installation. We listen intently, solve the problems that matter most, and execute with consistency. This isn’t a one-time strategy, it’s a standard we repeat every day, on every project.”

Throughout the production process at ASST, an emphasis is placed on customer education and transparency. “We offer both in-person and virtual shop tours so clients can see firsthand how we approach planning, fabrication and quality control. It’s important to share how each product is made from raw materials to the final product. This level of transparency helps build trust and supports long-term partnerships.”

While projects can span the continental United States, ASST remains proudly rooted in Pennsylvania. “The team brings the passion and integrity of a locally owned company to every job, no matter the scale. Our level of transparency helps build trust and supports long-term relationships. Our clients don’t just hire fabricators; they gain a collaborative partner who’s invested in their success that has national reach alongside local commitment.”

The Gift of Giving Back At ASST, they believe their impact should extend far beyond the projects they build. “Giving back reflects our values and our commitment to shaping not only environments but also lives. We recently supported our local volunteer fire and rescue company with a donation of CPR manikins and breathing apparatus. These essential training tools are now being used to help prepare the next generation of our local first responders — the very individuals who dedicate themselves to protecting our own communities. It’s incredibly meaningful to know that our contribution is playing a part in that training process.”

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MEMBER PROFILE

Supporting and training local heroes is one of many community initiatives that are integral to the company’s DNA. “Just as we shape solid surface materials with care and precision, we’re equally proud to shape a safer future by empowering those who serve. For us, community service isn’t a box to check, it’s a continuation of our core values.”

Adapting to Change through Innovation Every day in business brings a unique number of operational challenges, and the ASST management team has shown great resilience in navigating them. “The global supply chain remains unpredictable, especially when dealing with specialized surface materials and project-critical lead times.

We address these challenges through proactive inventory management, long-range forecasting, and diversified supplier relationships. By ordering further in advance, maintaining critical stock levels, and building flexibility into our logistics planning, we’ve developed a robust system that helps us meet project deadlines, despite external volatility.”

Overcoming project complexity remains an ongoing challenge for a company like ASST that work on large projects. “Taking on elaborate thermoforming, maintaining the highest of tolerances, and coordinating alongside multiple trades is no small feat. We mitigate scoop creep and installation misalignments by tightly integrating surface, millwork and quartz workflows from estimating through installation. By planning for the unexpected, it allows our company to be the solution, not the problem.”

Attracting and retaining skilled tradespeople continues to be a widespread issue across the construction and fabrication industries. “At ASST, we have responded by creating a culture that values craftsmanship, encourages professional development, and provides a clear pathway for advancement within the company. We also invest in cross-training and automation to make our production processes more resilient. This cross-department collaboration ensures we can maintain quality, even when talent is scarce.”

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Strength in Industry Partnerships A longtime member of the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), ASST sees their partnership with the industry group as much more than just a membership. “We view our affiliation with ISFA not only as an honor, but also a strategic advantage that fuels ASST’s standards, growth and credibility. Being a member of ISFA connects us with a curated network of peers dedicated to excellence, safety, education and advocacy, certifying our commitment to leadership and continual improvement.”

Yantis credits ISFA for taking a leadership role in prioritizing safety across the industry. “The association’s partnership with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has greatly improved workplace safety and health in the industry through training and offering resources, prioritizing safety for the well-being of not only our team, but the teams of clients alike.”

Through the years, ASST has proudly hosted numerous ISFA-led thermo-

forming training sessions. “It’s an opportunity for us to give back to the fabricator community by helping others master the craft we’re known for. We partner with ISFA to offer member-exclusive, intensive fabrication training covering solid surface, thermoforming and more. Our affiliation with ISFA reinforces our reputation for quality, professionalism and innovation, aligning with our core values of ownership, integrity and innovation.”

Finally, innovation will continue to guide their path forward. “Just as we’ve pioneered thermoforming solutions, award-winning health care products and textured surface systems, we’ll keep seeking out opportunities to create meaningful, practical innovations that solve real challenges for our clients. For ASST, the future is about more than expansion, it’s about building the infrastructure, people and ideas that

will allow us to continue to successfully partner for decades to come.”

Learn more about ASST Beyond Surface Level Solutions at www.asst. com. Follow them on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/ company/a-s-s-t-/.

Becoming a Future-Ready Company At ASST, their future is shaped by both strategic growth and a commitment to long-term stability. “One of the most significant steps forward will be relocating our quartz fabrication operations from Corry, Pennsylvania, to McSherrystown, Pennsylvania.

This move will consolidate our operations under one roof — expanding our facility from 55,000 square feet to 115,000 square feet and allow us to better serve our core markets in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. By eliminating additional shipping costs and logistical inefficiencies, we’ll become more competitive in regions where demand for high-quality surfaces continues to grow.”

For Yantis and the leadership team, growth also means investing in their people. “With sales increasing, we’re actively expanding our team to meet the rising demand. Positions in project management, estimating, planning and production are currently open, offering opportunities for new team members to join a company that values internal growth. Many of our people have advanced into new roles over time, and as a few key leaders prepare for retirement in the coming years, we’re focused on knowledge transfer, ensuring their decades of expertise are passed along to the next generation of ASST leaders.”

GEMST NE Solid Surface Sinks & Shower Pans

The NEW 1812-ID Infinty Drain

Ph: 574-294-8899 E-mail: sales@gemstoness.com

www.gemstonesinks.com/1812-id Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 38

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FOR YOUR BOOKSHELF Credit: iStock.com/Natalya Kosarevich

Never Lead Alone: 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship A Review of Keith Ferrazzi’s transformative new book

By Paul Hill

NEVER LEAD ALONE offers what no other leadership book does.

Twenty years ago, Keith Ferrazzi’s groundbreaking bestseller, Never Eat Alone, forever changed how people think about relationships and networking.

Since then, Ferrazzi has become one of the most transformative and sought-after team coaches for Fortune 500s, startup unicorns, and even world governments. In his practical and powerful new book, Never Lead Alone: 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship (HarperBusiness; November 12, 2024), he generously shares 20 years of (previously proprietary) research-backed tips and tricks of transforming a team as he lays out what no other leadership book does: reinventing the approach to leadership, from the hierarchical, hub-and-spoke model to a new peer-to-peer approach of sharing the leadership load with the team, and providing a clear roadmap for each member’s role in the team’s success. This is what makes teamship uniquely important in today’s volatile work world.

39 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

The New Role of the Leader Never Lead Alone introduces the new role of the leader. Ferrazzi writes, “A good leader gives feedback. A great leader assures the team gives each other feedback. A good leader holds members of the team accountable; a great leader assures the team holds each other accountable. A good leader keeps the energy of the team strong; a great leader assures the team is responsible for each other’s energy.”

A Tool and Clear Guide for All Team Members Purposefully written as a focused guide, Never Lead Alone is a hands-on workbook that unfolds as if Ferrazzi, the top team coach in the world, were himself coaching your team. Each chapter outlines one of the 10 shifts the team needs to make, including: 1. Team Diagnostics: clear diagnostic questions to

awaken the team to its current operating status.

2. Team Agreements: simple, verbal agreements

of how the team will strive to behave.

Purposefully written as a focused guide, Never Lead Alone is a hands-on workbook that unfolds as if Ferrazzi, the top team coach in the world, were himself coaching your team.

3. Practices: high-return practices teams can begin

of working. This is the modern guide for succeeding among the unique challenges of today.

4. Examples: short, powerful hero stories of

The Bible for Team Transformation

to use to make their transformation a scalable reality, measuring improvements along the way. real-life teams, across diverse industries and levels, from IBM to WordPress to e.l.f. Beauty, that allow readers to see the 10 shifts come alive in practice.

Co-Elevation Behaviors and 21st Century Collaboration Processes Teamship required a new vocabulary that made clear the radical difference from traditional leadership. Collaboration is something conventional teams fall back into when individual team members cannot get the job done by themselves. Co-elevation is a new state of interdependency that expects a team to be committed to a shared mission and committed to pushing each other higher. Ferrazzi also addresses critical elements of team performance, including collaboration processes and the most cutting-edge 21st century tools. Unlike most books that talk about culture and leadership performance, by touching on all three factors — behaviors, processes and tools — Never Lead Alone covers the entire spectrum of what it takes to be a high-performing team. Ferrazzi’s proven approach to teamship also addresses how to succeed in the current business environment, with new concerns about DEI, the challenges of remote and hybrid work, and emerging technologies including AI, all combining with more volatile markets that require more agile ways

Never Lead Alone is an essential guide — literally the bible that has been used in the most successful organizational transformations in the business world — that outlines the unique Ferrazzi coaching approach that teams have paid hundreds of thousands to implement. With this book, teams will achieve bolder, faster and more inclusive innovation, breaking down silos and delivering breakthrough performance.

Praise for NEVER LEAD ALONE “So simple yet so powerful. Ferrazzi has written another practical masterpiece, this time on the art and science of teamship. Never Lead Alone is a great road map for building a winning team.”

PATTI POPPE CEO, PG&E

“Ferrazzi’s shift from leadership to teamship is a game-changer. Never Lead Alone provides a clear and powerful guide on how to create a culture of innovation and shared success.”

TSHERING TOBGAY Prime Minister, Kingdom of Bhutan

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 40

FOR YOUR BOOKSHELF “Never Lead Alone offers a masterful blueprint for cultivating high-performance teams that are greater than the sum of their parts. Ferrazzi’s pragmatic approach seamlessly blends visionary insights with actionable strategies, empowering leaders to unlock immediate results.”

BILL McDERMOTT Chairman and CEO, ServiceNow

“Focusing on teamship behaviors within our organization has enabled faster and broader collaboration for real breakthrough results. Never Lead Alone is a beacon for teams seeking transformative outcomes in a rapidly evolving world.”

CALLIE FIELD President, Business Group, T-Mobile

“Never Lead Alone challenges teammates to rethink their assumptions about what they can expect from one another and what they can achieve together.”

“This book is a gift to teammates everywhere. Ferrazzi’s accessible strategies for fostering teamship are massively refreshing for teams at all levels and forge a path to better collaboration in any institution.”

DYLAN JADEJA CEO, Riot Games

STEVE COLLIS Chairman, president, and CEO, Cencora

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR KEITH FERRAZZI is an entrepreneur and global thought leader in high-performing teams and Chairman of Ferrazzi Greenlight and its Research Institute. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Who’s Got Your Back and bestsellers like Never Eat Alone, Leading Without Authority, and Competing in the New World of Work. He is a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, the Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Forbes Inc, Fortune, and many other publications.

1 41 •1154924_Water.indd Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

5/7/2025 11:46:16 PM

PERSPECTIVES

Momentum with Purpose

By Laurie Weber, ISFA Chief Executive Officer

The third quarter of 2025 has been a season of momentum and clarity for ISFA and our members. At its core, our mission remains simple: to build safer shops, stronger businesses and a more connected community of surface professionals. Yet the ways we pursue that mission continue to evolve as our industry faces new challenges and opportunities.

Safety at the Center This quarter, safety has taken the spotlight — and rightly so. With increased regulatory attention on silica and fabrication practices, we’ve doubled down on providing our members with the tools they need to protect their teams and businesses. From advancing the Fabricator Safety Initiative in partnership with Yale School of Medicine and NSI, to shaping policy conversations in California and beyond, ISFA is positioning itself as a clear, trusted voice for solutions that balance compliance with practicality.

The goal is simple: fewer incidents, safer environments and recognized pathways to compliance. We will continue to advocate for standards that make sense while equipping members with real-world training and controls.

Workforce and the Future of Fabrication Workforce development remains one of the most pressing issues across our industry. Shops are navigating not just how to find skilled people, but how to train, retain and inspire them. ISFA will build pathways to meet that challenge head-on: • Expand our offering with apprenticeship, certification opportunities and education.

• In 2026, host regional Fabricator Forums aligned with OSHA regions to ensure learning is accessible across the U.S. • Create programs that empower all available workforce to see fabrication as a viable and rewarding career.

Our belief is that a strong workforce builds a strong industry — one apprentice, one leader, one shop at a time.

Building Community & Listening to Members One of the most important investments we can make is in strengthening our community. ISFA is not just an association — it is a network of people who share challenges, solutions and a passion for craftsmanship.

To guide our future, we launched a membership survey this quarter, inviting every member to rate their satisfaction with our vision, programming and value. This input is essential as we refine our strategy, shape new programs and grow our collective voice.

Your feedback ensures that ISFA remains a community built with its members, not just for them. Together, we are writing the next chapter of this association’s story.

Advocacy and Industry Leadership ISFA continues to represent the voice of fabricators at the table where it matters. Whether through legislative engagement, standards development, or alliances with organizations like the Natural Stone Institute and Rockheads, our focus is always on ensuring that the fabricator’s perspective is heard.

We are also building out our governance and volunteer leadership so members have a direct role in shaping priorities — from safety and education to market insights and advocacy. This is your association, your platform, your community.

Looking Ahead As we turn toward the fourth quarter and prepare for our Annual Conference in Phoenix this November, the energy is undeniable. Together, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more sustainable industry.

To our members: Thank you for engaging, for sharing your stories and for holding us accountable to deliver value that matters. To our partners and collaborators: Thank you for walking alongside us to create safer, smarter and more profitable shops.

The work isn’t finished — but the direction is clear. Be the voice of the surface industry. That is our call. And that is our commitment.

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 42

PRODUCT NEWS

New Ultra Slim Xlight Surfaces + Tiles from Porcelanosa Xlight recreates the look of cement, marble, stone, wood and metal with extraordinary realism. The wide range of large format tiles is ideal for walls and floors with excellent quality and a visual continuity that can elevate the aesthetics of any space. This technical porcelain tile is offered in four finishes - polished, silk, textured and natural. Meet the newest designs to join the Xlight family below.

Inspired by the raw beauty of cement, Xlight Santorini captures the essence of modern urban design. This series of large format slim tiles for flooring, surfaces and exteriors blends the strength and minimalism of concrete with a refined elegance that brings warmth and sophistication to any space.

Each piece reflects the authentic texture and cool tones of concrete, elevated by subtle detailing that softens its industrial edge.

Taranto* Xlight Taranto draws inspiration from the enduring beauty of travertine, reimagined in a large-format, lightweight porcelain slab. Its natural look and feel is thanks to its subtle color variations, realistically imitating travertine stone, capturing the organic warmth and texture of stone with the precision and performance of modern design. Its refined surface brings timeless character to interiors, balancing subtle movement with a minimalist sensibility. *Taranto is also available in wall and floor tile options — see more below.

Nuit Xlight Nuit channels the elegance of dark marble with a contemporary edge. Its deep charcoal surface is traced with fine veining in soft white and gray, creating a dramatic contrast that evokes quiet luxury. Ideal for walls, floors and largescale applications, Nuit’s polished aesthetic and lightweight composition make it as versatile as it is striking — bringing depth, mood and modern refinement to any environment.

43 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Photos: Porcelanosa

Santorini

Wall Tiles Photos: Porcelanosa

Saddle The Saddle collection captures the timeless essence of stone with its natural aesthetic. Thanks to the exclusive Eclipse technology, each piece incorporates a relief effect that intensifies its realism.

Available in Caliza and Topo finishes, Saddle offers two versatile formats for flooring — 120-by-120 centimeters and 120-by-59.6 centimeters — and anti-slip versions designed for exteriors, allowing perfect visual continuity between interior and exterior.

The series is complemented by three models of ceramic wall tiles in the 45-by-120 centimeter format: • • •

Saddle: textured surface that enhances the naturalness of the stone.

Coin Saddle: an organic texture of soft intermittently striated stripes that bring dynamism to the space.

Neo Saddle: a herringbone braided design that adds a contemporary and artistic touch to the walls.

Taranto Taranto’s natural look and feel is thanks to its subtle color variations, realistically imitating travertine stone. Available in four shades — Bianco, Bone, Gold and Marfil — its timeless aesthetic is excellent for modern and minimalist interiors. Taranto is available in 59.6by-150 centimeters for wall tiles and 59.6-by-120 centimeters for floor tiles. Its five decorative wall tiles — Canal Taranto, Deco Taranto, Line Taranto, Fiume Taranto and Stripe Taranto — offer textures and reliefs that add dynamism and depth to spaces.

• • • • •

Canal’s convex, wavy lines provide the perfect balance between style and functionality for any room.

Deco, in a design with concave stripes, creates elegant atmospheres.

For those seeking a simple, modern, and minimalist style, the perfect decoration is Line, with its fine parallel stripes.

Fiume draws subtle horizontal waves, emulating the flow of a river and creating a sense of calm in the rooms.

Stripe traces narrow lines that expand spaces.

* Taranto also joins the Xlight catalog with the large wall tile format as detailed on the previous page.

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 44

PRODUCT NEWS

Four New Cambria Designs Capture the Beauty of Nature and the Power of Innovation Photo: Cambria

Cambria, the premier manufacturer of luxury American-made natural quartz surfaces, proudly introduces four striking new designs. From the serene flow of Traymore Bay™ to the boldness of St. Isley™, the elegance of Claremont™, and the understated but unforgettable Kenwood™, each design brings its own transformative power to a home.

This new launch signals a continued evolution in Cambria’s design philosophy — one where emotional connection, natural inspiration and quiet innovation converge. It arrives at a moment when homeowners are craving warmth, organic depth and texture in their spaces. From restorative neutrals to expressive veining, each surface is designed to reflect not only how people want their homes to look, but how they want to feel in them. An escape within.

Crafted with extraordinary attention to detail, these additions also reflect Cambria’s commitment to cuttingedge innovation and unparalleled craftsmanship — pushing the boundaries of what quartz can achieve.

Like all Cambria surfaces, they are maintenance-free, exceptionally durable, and backed by a transferable Lifetime Warranty. Each design offers timeless appeal with the performance to match, delivering endless possibilities for elegant, high-performing spaces across residential and commercial environments.

“At Cambria, innovation is never just about what’s new — it’s about what’s meaningful. Every detail of this launch was designed with intention, blending cutting-edge craftsmanship with the emotional power of material,” said Summer Kath, executive vice president of design at Cambria. “These surfaces do more than transform a space — they elevate the way we live in it. Each design invites connection, calm and selfexpression. That’s where true innovation lives — in beauty that’s deeply felt.”

45 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Meet the Designs Photos: Cambria

Traymore Bay Inspired by beach sand, sun-faded shells and flowing tide lines, Traymore Bay channels coastal serenity through gentle, diagonal veining and warm-toned movement. Its soft and subtle palette of taupes, ivories and misty neutrals brings peace to kitchens, bathrooms and hospitality spaces alike. Finish options: Polished and Cambria Satin™.

Claremont For those seeking grounded elegance, Claremont delivers with structure and softness. Its symmetrical veining in chocolate and taupe over a creamy base evokes the rhythm of nature, offering balance and depth. It is a natural choice for environments where harmony and warmth are paramount — from luxe primary baths to warmly modern kitchens. Finish options: Polished and Cambria Matte®.

St. Isley For those ready to make a statement, St. Isley is unapologetically bold. Dynamic waves of bluegray veining intertwine with warm taupes and dark grounding accents, creating a design that feels confident, artistic and alive. Whether used as a dramatic island, a focal-point fireplace wall or a luxe commercial interior, it offers motion, contrast and undeniable presence. Finish options: Polished and Cambria Satin.

Kenwood Understated yet unforgettable, Kenwood is a master class in restraint. A creamy canvas is delicately layered with diagonal taupe veining and white crackles, offering a sense of movement without overwhelming. Inspired by organic form and timeless architecture, it pairs effortlessly with natural woods, brushed brass or woven textures — ideal for spa baths, serene kitchens or boutique retail. Finish options: Polished and Cambria Satin.

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 46

PRODUCT NEWS Crafted for Today’s Design Needs This launch exemplifies Cambria’s unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, U.S.-based manufacturing and category-defining innovation. From soft, soothing designs to striking focal points, these designs are defined by emotional intelligence, sensory depth, and versatility across both residential and commercial spaces.

Whether designers are creating quiet escapes or bold brand experiences, these four designs offer a material solution that feels as good as it looks — anchoring any space in beauty, emotion and enduring style.

Leading the Market in Innovation The company’s continued refinement of its proprietary advanced technology enables the creation of new patterns, architectures and finishes such as Cambria Satin, unmatched in the marketplace. And all this is delivered with Cambria’s maintenance-free guarantee.

These latest Cambria designs are perfect examples of this. In addition, they align with current key design trends: •

Warm Aesthetic: Traymore Bay, Claremont and Kenwood suit the growing trend toward warmer

•

Bold Pattern: The appeal of Cambria’s bold designs continues with St. Isley, a beautiful focal point

•

Inviting Textures:

tones in interiors.

for a room, with a color scheme that works with many color palettes.

– In addition to Cambria’s Polished finish, Traymore Bay, St. Isley and Kenwood are offered in the exclusive Cambria Satin finish, with low sheen and a soft touch. Its subtle texture lends a deeper dimension to each design and minimizes glare.

– Claremont comes in the exclusive Cambria Matte finish. With a subtle sheen, silken feel and reduced-glare surface, the finish has a soft-touch surface that’s as durable as Cambria’s Polished countertops but with a more organic feel.

•

Trendsetting Applications: These versatile designs open up endless possibilities across a wide

range of surfaces including kitchen counters, full-height backsplashes, bathroom vanities and showers, fireplace surrounds, wall cladding and more.

47 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Welcome to our new ISFA Members and many thanks to our renewing members!

NEW FABRICATOR MEMBERS Coastal Stone Group Greenwood, DE

Cobble Creek Countertops Midvale, UT

Granite World of Colorado Denver, CO

LNN Services LLC Colton, WA

Marble Unlimited LLC Honolulu, HI

Millennia Cabinetry, Inc.

McDermott Top Shop LLC

Miami, FL

Modern Home Distributing

Jaynes Structures

Nunda, NY

Spaulding Fabricators Inc. Brick, NJ

Sterling-Miller Designs Inc. Brockton, MA

The Countertop Shop Ltd Monclova, OH

The Pinske Edge Plato, MN

Members for 20+ years

Helotes, TX

American Countertops

Rockn Counter Design

Albuquerque, NM

Newark, DE

Spaulding Stone

New Age Surfaces Romeoville, IL

Moorhead, MN

Walsh Custom Surfaces Brooklet, GA

Members for 15+ years W.R. Watson, Inc. Stafford, TX

RENEWING FABRICATOR MEMBERS

INDEKO INC.

Jefferson, WI

Members for 10+ years Bangor Wholesale Laminates

Albuquerque, NM

Members for 5+ years Great In Counters Providence, RI

Gunckel Architectural Stoneworks, LLC Seguin, TX

Hard Rock Stone Works Sterling Heights, MI

Nelson Tile and Stone Bend, OR

ROCKin’teriors, LLC Raleigh, NC

The Countertop Factory Midwest Addison, IL

Top Advantage Surfaces, Inc Hartville, OH

Members for 1 to 5 years Alpha Countertops Russellville, AR

Armen Stone

Bangor, ME

Burlington, NC

Members for 25+ years

Counter Fitters, LLC

Atlantic Countertops

Savannah, GA

Raleigh, NC

ASST

Countertops of Memphis LLC

Bedrock Granite and Tile

McSherrystown, PA

Counterscapes, Inc. Tyler, TX

Innovative Surfaces, Inc. Hastings, MN

Maxwell Counters, Inc. Farmer City, IL

Memphis, TN

Slinger, WI

DFC-Dakota Fixture & Cabinet Co

Classic Rock

Madison, SD

Harrisburg, PA

Gecko Solid Surface Solutions

Colorado Custom Stone

San Antonio, TX

Denver, CO

Humboldt Countertops & Surfacing

Cook Inlet Housing Authority

Fields Landing, CA

Anchorage, AK

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 48

Credit: iStock.com/Stefan Ilic

ISFA NEWS

ISFA NEWS

ISFA CONTACTS

Members for 1 to 5 years (cont.)

Kitchen Creations, Inc.

Custom Stone & Marble. Inc.

Deatsville, AL

Chapel Hill, NC

Middle Tennessee Granite Inc

D&H Designs Inc

Nashville, TN

Memphis, TN

Outlaw Construction LLC

Finelines Granite & Quartz ltd

Kodiak, AK

Edmonton, AB

Rock Solid Marble and Granite LLC

Front Range Stone

Sheffield, MA

Englewood, CO

Smokey Mountain Tops

GMD Surfaces

Knoxville, TN

Mokena, IL

Sprovieri’s Custom Counters

Good Stone & Quartz Fabrication

Addison, IL

Pembroke, MA

Stone Creation

Granite Concepts

Irvine, CA

Lewiston, ID

Toor Stone Countertops, Inc.

Hallmark Stone Company

Austin, TX

Fenton, MO

WL Stone Works

Hobbs Construction LLC

Chicago, IL

Van Buren, AR

Keystone Granite Inc Oak Bluff, MB

49 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

ISFA 736 W. Ingomar Rd #627 | Ingomar, PA 15127 888-599-ISFA | www.ISFAnow.org Chief Executive Officer Laurie Weber 888-599-ISFA Ext. 1 Laurie@ISFAnow.org Membership Director Heather Duve 888-599-ISFA Ext. 2 Heather@ISFAnow.org Marketing & Sales Director Julie Cordel 888-599-ISFA Ext. 5 Julie@ISFAnow.org Operations Director Amy Kyriazis 888-599-ISFA Ext. 4 Amy@ISFAnow.org Technical Training & Development Coordinator Sarah Nicholas 888-599-ISFA Ext. 3 Sarahn@isfanow.org Association Administrator Kanani Camacho 888-599-ISFA Ext. 6 Kanani@ISFAnow.org

Thank You

to our Quarter Three 2025 Partners ISFA extends its gratitude to our valued partners. Their dedication to the surfacing industry empowers ISFA to create meaningful opportunities for fabricator members — providing essential training, education, business development, networking and more.

Together, we’re shaping a stronger, more innovative industry.

PREMIER PARTNERS

CORE PARTNERS

PARTNERS

Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association • 50

ISFA ASSOCIATE PARTNER MEMBERS *New members are marked with an asterisk 3Chem Surfaces Private Limited* India 919820549909 www.3chem.in

Caesarstone US Charlotte, NC 818-378-2667 www.caesarstoneus.com

Durasein USA Rosedale, MD 877-771-7712 www.durasein.com

ACS International Tucson, AZ 520-889-1933 www.acstone.com

Cambria USA Le Sueur, MN 507-665-5003 www.cambriausa.com

Durcon Taylor, TX 512-595-8000 www.durcon.com

ActionFlow St. Louis, MO 63126 704-877-7884 www.actionflow.net

CaraGreen Raleigh, NC 919-929-3009 www.caragreen.com

Dwyer Marble & Stone Supply Farmington Hills, MI 248-476-4944 www.dwyermarble.com

Adria USA Inc. Knoxville, TN 865-307-8572 www.abrasiviadria.com

Chemcore Industries Austin, TX 866-243-6267 www.chemcor.com

Emnas Technologies Barrie, ON, Canada 647-302-3630 www.emnastech.com

Aetna Building Solutions Maywood, IL 708-343-1515 www.aetnaplywood.com

Chemical Concepts Huntingdon Valley, PA 800-220-1966 www.chemical-concepts.com

E&T Plastics Long Island City, NY 820-221-9555 e-tplastics.com

Al-Badaha Company for Modern Industries Saudi Arabia 966920002964 www.albadaha.com

Compac USA Miami, FL 305-406-3600 www.us.compac.es

Evans Midwest Holland, MI 616-546-8225 www.evansmidwest.com

Cosentino USA Coral Gables, FL 786-812-0509 www.cosentino.com

Fifth Gear Technology Elmhurst, IL 630-606-8055 www.speedlabel.net

Countertop Marketing Co. Southport, CT 203-993-6676 www.countertopmarketingco.com

FreePower Phoenix, AZ 914-227-3435 www.freepower.io

Crane-Tech, Inc Homer Glen, IL 630-427-0088 www.crane-techinc.com

Full Circle Water* St. Joseph, MN 320-266-9799 www.fullcirclewater.com

Dal-Tile Corporation Dallas, TX 214-309-3162 www.daltile.com

Gemstone Elkhart, IN 574-294-8899 www.gemstonesinks.com

DeFusco Industrial Supply* Mesa, AZ 480-966-5765 www.defusco.com

Granite Gold Poway, CA 858-499-8934 www.granitegold.com

Dixie Plywood & Lumber Savannah, GA 912-447-7000 dix-invoices@dixieply.com

GranQuartz Norcross, GA 800-458-6222 www.granquartz.com

Doyle Farris Magnolia, TX 859-533-3079 www.doylefarris.com

Groves Inc Woodstock, IL 815-337-9780 www.groves.com

DuPont Wilmington, DE 314-941-5179 www.corian.com

Hallmark Building Supplies Waukesha, WI 800-642-2246 www.hllmark.com

Architectural Surfaces Austin, TX 512-264-7444 https://www.arcsurfaces.com BACA Systems Orion Township, MI 248-791-3060 www.bacasystems.com BB Industries Knoxville, TN 800-575-4401 www.bbindustriesllc.com Biesse America Charlotte, NC 704-357-3131 www.biesse.com Big Dog Adhesives, llc.

Elkhart, IN 574-350-2237 www.bigdogadhesives.com BP Metrics* Mokena, IL 815-638-7427 www.bpmetrics.net Breton S.p.A. Italy 39 0423 7691 www.breton.it Bronwick Recruiting Austin, TX 512-981-5294 www.bronwick.com

51 • Vol. 18 / Issue 3 • International Surface Fabricators Association

Hanover® Architectural Products Hanover, PA 800-426-4242 www.hanoverpavers.com

Marqet Group LLC Houston, TX 713-364-5342 marqetgroup.com

Stone Grid Altamonte Springs, FL 877-909-0569 www.stonegridusa.com

Hartson-Kennedy Cabinet Top Co., Inc. Marion, IN 800-388-8144 ambcar@hartson-kennedy.com

Milia Marketing Cleveland, OH 216-990-5250 www.miliamarketing.com

Synchronous Solutions Cleveland, OH 216-533-1387 www.synchronoussolutions.com

Hyundai L&C USA Atlanta, GA 888-426-9421 www.hyundailncusa.com

Moksh Tech India 301-252-2673 www.mokshcad.com

Trinseo Florence, KY 859-283-1501 www.aristechsurfaces.com

InnoChem Avondale, PA 800-316-3857 www.akemi.com

Moraware Reno, NV 866-312-9273 www.moraware.com

Ukinox USA Kitchen Systems Inc Fort Lauderdale, FL 954-812-2929 www.topzero.com

Integra Adhesives Compton, CA 919-598-2400 www.integra-adhesives.com

MSI Surfaces Orange, CA 714-685-7500 www.msisurfaces.com

UMI Norwood, MA 781-666-6690 www.umistone.com

Jaeckle Distributors Madison, WI 608-838-5400 www.jaeckledistributors.com

Neolith* Spain 34 964 652 233 www.neolith.com

US Surfaces Austin, TX 512-454-2229 www.ussurfaces.com

Karonia Surfaces United Kingdom 447814415724 www.karonia.com

Park Industries St. Cloud, MN 320-251-5077 www.parkindustries.com

Vicostone USA Dallas, TX 972-243-2325 www.us.vicostone.com

Karran USA Vincennes, IN 410-975-0128 www.karran.com

Parson Adhesives Rochester Hills, MI 248-299-5585 www.chromalok.com

VING Youngstown, OH 330-574-8022 www.vingapp.com

Kohler Co. Kohler, WI 920-457-4441 www.kohler.com

Princeton Chemical Company Rosedale, MD 877-778-6878 www.princetonchemical.com

Water Treatment Solutions Hampton, NH 603-758-1900 www.watertreatmentonline.com

Krion Porcelanosa Group Spain 34 964 50 64 64 www.porcelanosa-usa.com

Prodim Systems Ft. Pierce, FL 772-465-4000 www.prodim-systems.com

Willis Burlington, ON, Canada 289-775-5814 www.4willis.com

Laser Products Industries Romeoville, IL 630-755-5402 www.laserproductsus.com

Schechner Lifson Corp.

Summit, NJ 908-598-7813 www.slcinsure.com

Wilsonart Temple, TX 800-433-3222 www.wilsonart.com

LOTTE Chemical La Palma, CA 714-443-0901 www.lottechem.com

Schultz Forming Products Carlsbad, CA 800-822-2875 www.schultzform.com

ZOLLER Ann Arbor, MI 734-332-4851 www.zoller-usa.com

LX Hausys America Atlanta, GA 678-535-4113 www.lxhausysusa.com

Sinkits Sink Clips* Denver, Co 417-374-7373 www.sinkits.com

MAGPPIE* Gainesville, FL 352-213-6412 www.magppie.com

SolidSurface.com Tucson, AZ 520-247-3304 www.solidsurface.com

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THE LARGEST SELECTION. THE HIGHEST STANDARDS.

Photo features Bee Hive™ Grey on the wall with Acreage™ Reserve on the columns and ONE Quartz Surfaces® Astoria on the bar with Panoramic Porcelain Surfaces™ Charred Nickel on the floor.

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