Celebrate Surface Excellence: Enter the 2025 ISFA Awards!The ISFA Awards are back — and we’re looking for the industry’s most outstanding projects in surface design, fabrication, and installation! This annual program celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation across residential, commercial, and specialty applications. If your team recently completed a standout kitchen, commercial space, or unique custom project, now’s your chance to shine. Why Enter? Winners receive industry-wide recognition, features in ISFA promotions and publications, and are honored live at the 2025 ISFA Annual Conference. Award Categories Include:
Submit your nomination by July 31! Showcase your work and inspire the fabrication community. NOMINATE YOUR PROJECT TODAYGet Fired Up: Porcelain, Done Right!Hands-On Fabrication Training for Shops Ready to Step Up Their Game Porcelain fabrication is on the rise — are you ready to meet the demand? The International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) is bringing its popular porcelain training event to Pompano Beach, Florida, and you don’t want to miss it! Whether you're looking to boost your shop’s porcelain output or explore adding porcelain to your product line, this two-day, hands-on training is designed to help you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed. Is This Training for You? If you’re a:
…looking to sharpen your porcelain fabrication skills or get your team up to speed — this workshop is for you. What You’ll Get Precision – Learn the essentials of porcelain fabrication with expert, real-time instruction. Craftsmanship – Work directly with porcelain materials, tools, and equipment in a live shop setting. Transformation – Walk away with new skills, a confidence boost, and a certificate to show you’ve done the work. If you’ve been thinking about adding porcelain to your shop’s lineup or want to elevate your skills, now’s the time. Don’t wait — spots fill quickly! REGISTER NOWYou Can’t Ignore Silica Safety: Protect the People Who Matter MostSilica dust kills — and too many shops are still overlooking the risks. Prolonged exposure to respirable crystalline silica can lead to silicosis and other irreversible lung diseases. It’s a serious, industry-wide issue, and it’s time to take action. Every employee deserves to work in a safe environment and make it home at the end of the day. Make the Most of Your ISFA Membership. As an ISFA member, you have access to valuable silica safety resources designed to help you protect your team and stay compliant:
Protect your people. Protect your shop. ACCESS ISFA'S SILICA SAFETY TRAINING TODAY
Industry Update: Tariffs Drive Cost Increases and Strategic Shifts in FabricationIn the past week, the surface fabricator and countertop industry has continued to adapt to the renewed 25% U.S. tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. These materials are commonly used for structural supports, fasteners, and fabrication equipment. As a result, many fabricators are seeing moderate cost increases—up to 12% in some cases—which are influencing project pricing and timelines. To manage these changes, fabricators are making strategic adjustments. A recent survey by PlantTours.com found that 55% of manufacturers reported a 10–15% reduction in profit margins, while 75% have made pricing updates to reflect higher input costs. Additionally, 45% of respondents noted staffing changes, though these vary widely depending on business size and market segment. In response, companies are exploring sourcing options from countries not affected by tariffs, such as Mexico and Vietnam, and considering alternative materials like composites. While these solutions require careful evaluation, they reflect the industry’s efforts to maintain flexibility, manage costs, and continue delivering quality products to clients despite ongoing trade-related pressures. Stay ahead of market changes — explore sourcing alternatives and pricing strategies with our latest industry insights. Got an issue in your business that's weighing you down? Tell us about it and we'll consider adding your topic to an upcoming event, virtual or in-person.ISFA aims to provide the tools and resources you need to break down barriers in your business. If you've got a problem, we've got answers!SUBMIT AN IDEA |