Eric Astrachan (TCNA): "In 2019 we expect similar market results as last year"

Ahead of the appointment with Coverings 2019 (Orlando, 9 to 12 April), we asked some of the leading figures in the US ceramic industry to comment on the current state and future prospects of the US market.

Eric Astrachan, Executive Director of Tile Council of North America (TCNA)

“ Despite the substantial growth of overall construction spending in the US last year, ceramic tile consumption did not keep pace. This was likely due to the increased market penetration of plastic flooring. We expect that 2019 will bring similar market results as last year: i.e. overall sales will be flat or experience low, single-digit growth. However, ceramic tile, with its great value, low life cycle cost, beauty, versatility, durability, ease of maintenance, and sustainability, remains an excellent choice for consumers, so we fully expect tile’s share of the flooring market to continue to expand in the coming years.  

Though 2018 was disappointing, we are hopeful for higher growth in the near future. With the recent domestic plant openings and expansions, and more expected soon, US tile producers are well-positioned to supply the market with the latest designs in high-quality ceramic tile, although unfairly labeled and priced product continues to be a problem in the US marketplace.

The 10% duty on Chinese tile exports to the US enacted in September 2018 has not had a noticeable effect. While it is not possible to predict whether the threatened additional 15% duty will come to pass, if it were to do so, that would impact China’s position in the US marketplace, with some importers substituting products from India.  „