Wallcoverings Association 2024 Annual Meeting Recap

(PRESS RELEASE) CLEARWATER BEACH, FL — At the Wallcoverings Association (WA) 2024 Annual Meeting, which took place from January 27-30, 2024, in, professionals from across the industry gathered for a focused blend of networking and educational sessions. Attendees seized the opportunity to connect, learn, and exchange insights, contributing to a productive and enriching event experience.

The meeting kicked off with attendees headed to individual supplier meetings and committee meetings throughout the day. Many insights and strategic plans were shaped and shared. The day finished with a lively networking welcome reception.

The second day had a selection of lively presenters, kicking off the day with Sam Richter titled “Embrace It: Generative AI and Your Future.” Sam kicked off the presentation asking, “What are you doing with this new technology to grow your business?” He reviewed the fundamentals of AI and seamlessly tied it back to how the industry can effectively leverage its capabilities.

Giselle Walsh (WA’s Technical/Sustainability Consultant) and Ned Monroe (President/CEO of the Vinyl Institute) had an insightful discussion about the intersection of vinyl and sustainability. During the presentation, industry news regarding regulatory updates and sustainability were shared, alongside an update from the Vinyl Institute. Ned and Giselle shared timely and relevant updates with attendees. 

This year’s Annual Meeting also brought WA’s first ever Designer Panel moderated by AJ Paron (SANDOW Design Group/Interior Design Magazine) with John Cialone (Tom Stringer Design Partners), Sarah Colandro (AECOM), and Adriana Rojas (HOK). The panel spoke on industry trends across commercial and residential sectors, shift to sustainability, the importance of collaboration between designers and wallcoverings manufacturers/distributors, and the bold design impacts wallcoverings bring to the design process.

Later that night during the awards ceremony and dinner, the WA announced that the Allman Award, was presented to Marybeth Shaw, Chief Creative Officer, Design and Marketing at Wolf-Gordon. With over two decades of success in building concept-driven brands, products, and environments for organizations in commercial design and green building—Shaw has built long standing inspiration amongst her team and within the industry. 

Additionally, the 2024 Board of Directors was recognized. Robin Patrick was recognized as Immediate Past President, as well as to Outgoing Board Members Bobby Moore and Shelly Bixler. WA’s Service Award went to Greg Laux. He was commended for his exceptional service, specifically for his dedication toward WA’s TecTrac event. Shelly Bixler was recognized by Robin Patrick with the President’s Award for her outstanding commitment to WA.

Wallcoverings Association Executive Director, Sarah Tiwana spoke to the impact and success of this event. “I am grateful for the impact our speakers, attendees and supporters have had on making the 2024 Annual Meeting a success! Everyone’s commitment and active participation enriches the industry and cultivates a forum for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration that will continue to propel the industry forward.”