Indian Wells, Calif.—The National Association of Floor Covering Distributors’ (NAFCD) initial Distributor Marketplace was a resounding success.

More than 70 manufacturers exhibited at the Marketplace, which served as a mini trade show of sorts. The goal for most was to either fill a geographical void in their distribution, upgrade a particular territory or preview a new product or two to existing wholesalers in a setting more intimate than Surfaces or Coverings. Then there were those that chose the Marketplace as their coming-out party, starting from square one in the formation of their distribution network.

The NAFCD acknowledged the success of Surfaces and Coverings but identified a void: There was no intimate trade show offering the opportunity for a manufacturer that supports the distribution channel to meet one-on-one with wholesalers without any distractions.