The year is three weeks old, 20 days as I write this, and I’ve already made stops at Flooring America, Carpet One, Mannington and Armstrong. I’ve spoken with more mills and retailers heading into Surfaces at this point than in any other year. The one thing everyone agrees upon: To say 2008 will be tough is a gross understatement.

In any case, here’s what I’m thinking about, in no particular order, as we head into Surfaces:

I believe CCA Global has made two significant moves that better positions itself. First was the appointment of Rick Bennet to co-CEO. His resume suggests he will be a positive influence. With 27 years of executive experience in retail, most notably in high-level positions at the May Co., as an industry outsider he should bring fresh ideas.

Better yet was the promotion of Eric Demaree to COO of Carpet One. Most of you don’t know Eric, but not too long ago he was arguably one of the five most important people in the flooring industry. This is the man who guided Home Depot from the ground floor to the nation’s number one floor covering retailer.

He brings vision and leadership to the group.

I’m curious what Surfaces will be like. Last year it was victimized by dates one week later than normal because of a scheduling conflict at the Sands. That put it in direct competition with the Builder Show and ColorCenter. It butted up against the Abbey convention. The economy was tanking. This time around both the economy and general mood is worse. I’m guessing attendance will be down, but how much of it will be attributed to companies bringing fewer people as opposed to bypassing the event?

I’m wondering if Congoleum’s latest bankruptcy submission will gain the requisite approval, from insurance companies to the courts. The latest plan is similar to the route taken by Armstrong. I don’t think you will be hearing “prepackaged” anytime soon.

One company I’ll be watching closely this year is Formica Flooring. After scrapping 30 of its initial 38 SKUs, the well-known brand is loaded for bear with a much sharper product mix. Distributors have been raving. Product + value + brand is a strong arsenal.

One month into the year, I’m seeing some companies pulling back and some forging ahead with their advertising and marketing. Those in an aggressive mode appear to be Mohawk, Armstrong, Anderson, Natural Cork, Alloc/Berry, Mannington, Mirage and Formica. I’m sure there are others, but those who are aggressive in slow times will reap the benefits when the economy turns around.