CTDA sets ambitious goals for the future of ceramic tile distribution
The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), an international body representing independent distributors, manufacturers, and allied professionals in the ceramic tile sector, has successfully concluded a strategic planning meeting aimed at charting a clear and ambitious path for the organisation over the next three years. The two-day gathering took place at the corporate headquarters of Louisville Tile in Louisville, Kentucky, and involved a substantial turnout of the CTDA board alongside key committee chairs, totalling 16 participants.
The meeting, facilitated by Carol Atkins, Vice President of Operations at Louisville Tile, provided a platform for the CTDA leadership to reaffirm their core mission and establish actionable objectives. Central to the discussions were plans that outline critical initiatives for 2025 and early 2026, reflecting the commitment of the CTDA to strengthen its position within the industry.
Among the primary areas of focus identified during the session are membership growth, member engagement, marketing expansion, and educational advancement. Specifically, there is a goal to double distributor membership within a three-year timeframe, signalling an aggressive approach towards recruitment and retention. Additionally, the CTDA aims to foster increased participation among its members, indicating a clear intent to enhance member engagement and involvement in the association.
Moreover, there is a planned expansion of marketing efforts which will align with the strategic objectives of the organisation, ensuring that the CTDA effectively communicates its value propositions to potential and existing members. The meeting also underscored the importance of educational offerings, with plans to expand training programmes that address sales strategies, content development for dealers, and the growth of American Institute of Architects (AIA) accredited Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Following a thorough day of strategic discussions, attendees enjoyed a board dinner, which was succeeded by a final session aimed at solidifying the objectives articulated during the meeting. A highlight of the event was a tour of a manufacturing facility in Lexington, which provided insight into the operational facets of the ceramic tile industry and underscored the CTDA's commitment to fostering industry knowledge and collaboration.
Scott Levy, President of the CTDA, expressed optimism about the outcomes of the planning meeting, saying, “Our mission remains strong, and we’ve developed a clear roadmap for achieving our goals. By doubling membership, enhancing engagement, and expanding education, we’ll provide significantly more value to our members and the industry. The key takeaway is our laser-focused plan, with its specific goals and action items; we are well-positioned for continued success.”
In addition to strategic growth initiatives, Rick Church, the Executive Director of CTDA, highlighted the newly introduced two-year leadership term structure. He stated, “Our two-year leadership term structure is another significant step forward for CTDA. This structure, allowing individuals to serve in leadership roles over two years instead of one, fosters stability.”
Crosby Hall, Chief Administrative Officer of Louisville Tile, commented on the event, “It was an honor to host the CTDA at our corporate campus. We believe in the power of collaboration and are proud to support the Association’s mission of uniting peers to drive the future of independent tile distribution.”
With the strategic plan now mapped out, the CTDA is committed to implementing the goals and objectives established during the meeting, driving growth and engagement within the independent ceramic tile distribution industry well into the future.