Organizers of Coverings, in partnership with Contract magazine, have launched “Coverings Select,” a juried program honoring those tile and stone products that reflect design, engineering and technological innovation and that set new standards in aesthetics and performance.

In issuing the Call for Entries, Coverings and Contract are seeking candidates in eight categories: Artisan Tile/Stone; Porcelain/Ceramic Tile Wall; Porcelain/Ceramic Tile Floor; Mosaic Tile; Glass Tile; Natural Stone; Installation Material Systems; and Equipment and Machinery. The deadline for submissions is March 6.

In addition to reviewing the required written entry materials, on opening day of the show, Tuesday, April 27, at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center, a panel of judges will visit those exhibitors who have entered “Coverings Select” for a first-hand evaluation of the product candidates. Honorees will be announced and awarded their distinction later that day, and then featured in a printed brochure distributed to show goers beginning Wednesday and throughout the remainder of the show, which concludes on Friday, April 30. Additionally, “Coverings Select” honorees will be featured in an upcoming issue of Contract, and on the Coverings Web site.

Coverings Select is modeled after Best of NeoCon, the design industry competition that recognizes excellence and innovation in product design for commercial interiors. The prestigious program, also sponsored by Contract, celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2009.

“The breadth of tile and stone products unveiled each year at Coverings is extraordinary, and one of the most compelling draws of the show,” said Jennifer Hoff, president of National Trade Productions, which manages and produces Coverings. “It is a privilege to be partnering with Contract magazine, and we are grateful to be able to benefit from their Best of NeoCon expertise as we not only applaud the unparalleled caliber of exhibitors and their products, but also help all attendees discover some of the most outstanding and unique products that distinguish Coverings as the ultimate marketplace for tile and stone.”

“Coverings Select” is open to all contracted Coverings exhibitors. To be eligible the product must be on display in their Coverings 2010 exhibit space and be an introduction to either the U.S. or international markets over the past year only, since the closing date of last year’s Coverings, April 24, 2009.

For more information, visit www.coverings.com.