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Consolidated Flooring, a leading national commercial floor covering contractor, is pleased to announce the acquisition of a majority interest in Re:Source New Jersey, located in Denville, New Jersey. Re:Source New Jersey also has branch locations in East Norriton, Pa., and New Castle, Del. The company will continue to be led by its President, Steve Poniatowski, who retains a minority interest in the business.

“We are thrilled to have Steve and his team join us. This acquisition strengthens access to market segments here in Metro N.Y. as well as broadening our reach in the Northeast into the Philadelphia and Delaware markets,” said David Meberg, CEO and President of Consolidated Flooring.

“Consolidated is a leader in our industry and we feel that access to its business platforms and scale will help us be an even more effective partner to the clients we serve,” said Steve Poniatowski, President of Re:Source New Jersey.

During the transition and integration period, Re:Source NJ and their affiliated brands, PA Flooring and Delaware Flooring Re:Source, will retain their established brand identities while operating as affiliated companies of Consolidated Flooring, ensuring continuity for customers, employees, and industry partners.

The new Pennsylvania and Delaware locations expand Consolidated Flooring’s network of offices across the United States, including New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Texas, Indiana, Michigan, and Florida.

About Consolidated Flooring

For more than 80 years, Consolidated Flooring has been a trusted commercial flooring contractor for clients across a wide range of industries. The company’s enduring relationships—with national accounts, manufacturers, general contractors, architects, and facility owners—underscore its reputation for quality, consistency, and dependability.

By anticipating client needs and executing with precision, Consolidated Flooring continues to expand its national presence and uphold the highest standards of the commercial flooring trade.

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

The Starnet Commercial Flooring Educational Roadshow bus stopped in Toronto with momentum, bringing together commercial flooring professionals for a high-impact week of education, collaboration, and industry insight. The kickoff aligned with an unforgettable moment in the city, a Toronto Blue Jays grand slam walk-off win, setting an energetic tone that carried throughout the event.

The Educational Roadshow is designed to support ongoing professional development in the commercial flooring industry, the Toronto stop focused on helping Starnet members strengthen their market position through knowledge, strategy, and connection. Attendees participated in a series of educational sessions covering strategic market segments, data analytics, and real-world applications of market insights to drive growth and increase market share.

The Path To Success

A key focus of the roadshow was leveraging data to make smarter business decisions. Sessions explored how commercial flooring contractors and professionals can use analytics to identify opportunities, improve targeting, and stay competitive in evolving market conditions.

In addition to strategy, the event emphasized technical excellence. Hands-on sessions and discussions around product installation techniques and technical product education reinforced the importance of delivering high-quality flooring solutions backed by deep product knowledge and skilled execution.

Beyond the sessions, the event highlighted the value of partnership and community within the Starnet network. The “Meet More, Make More” initiative encouraged attendees to expand their professional networks, build stronger relationships, and uncover new business opportunities through collaboration. Engagement remained high throughout the event, with active participation from both Starnet members and the Mohawk Group team.

Thank You For Attending!

The Toronto Roadshow Event demonstrated how education, innovation, and collaboration continue to shape the future of the commercial flooring industry. As the Educational Roadshow bus continues to move to additional cities, the excitement and momentum generated in Toronto is expected to carry forward, delivering continued value to Starnet members across North America.

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

In a recent interview at a Starnet event in Aventura, FL, Tanner McHugh sat down with Dan Tilley of Bonitz to discuss how one of the industry’s largest players continues to evolve. While many know Bonitz as a dominant force in flooring, the company has a rich history dating back to 1954, originally starting in ceilings and drywall. Today, Bonitz is leveraging its partnership with Starnet to navigate a shifting landscape, moving beyond traditional flooring to become a comprehensive specialty trade commercial contractor.

Diversifying Beyond the “Commodity” of Flooring

One of the most significant strategic shifts for Bonitz has been the deliberate move toward diversification and service bundling. In 2022, the company bolstered its “specialty group,” which handles a wide array of scopes including cladding, Terrazzo, raised access flooring, sports flooring, and acoustical treatments.

This evolution was driven by a need to stay relevant as core flooring projects face increasing commoditization. By offering up to 11 different scopes of work, Bonitz can now bundle and package services on a single contract, a move that aligns with manufacturer desires and allows for larger, more secure contract sizes. This diversification also provides new, specialized career opportunities for employees who were previously limited to traditional carpet or drywall roles.

Maintaining Culture Through Core Values and Standardization

Scaling a business across 13 offices in the Southeast while adding highly specialized personnel presents a significant cultural challenge. To combat the “strain on culture” that rapid growth can cause, Bonitz relies on two foundational pillars: its seven core values and its status as an employee-owned company. Being employee-owned ensures everyone is “pulling a rope in the same direction,” as profitability directly impacts the stock price and the collective vested interest of the team.

Furthermore, Bonitz has moved away from the autonomous “flavor” of individual offices toward a model of consistency and standardization. By implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and unified technology, the company ensures that whether a client is in Nashville or Charleston, they receive the same “Bonitz way” of service. This is supported by a rigorous “hire right” philosophy and uniform training to ensure every new team member is a cultural fit.

The Power of the Team Selling Model

A pivotal change in Bonitz’s operational efficiency was the transition away from the “cradle to grave” management style to a specialized team selling concept. Under the old model, a single salesperson was responsible for everything from takeoffs to project management—a process Dan Tilley describes as a “frightening concept” for growth.

By adopting a team structure, Bonitz separates roles into dedicated estimators, project managers, and salespeople. This allows:

• Salespeople to maximize facetime with customers rather than being stuck doing takeoffs.
• Estimators to provide more accurate and professional bids.
• Project Managers to focus exclusively on field execution and customer service.

This “laser focus” on individual roles collectively serves the customer better and creates a healthy, competitive team environment that ultimately drives the company’s success.

Looking Ahead

As the industry continues to change, the partnership between Bonitz and Starnet remains vital. Starnet’s own move to diversify its preferred vendor list with non-traditional flooring products aligns perfectly with Bonitz’s growth strategy.

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Dan Tilley for sharing these insights into the internal workings of Bonitz. His perspective on balancing rapid growth with a steadfast commitment to culture and operational excellence provides a valuable roadmap for any commercial contractor in the Starnet network.

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

M. Frank Higgins & Co., Inc. is demonstrating a profound commitment to the future of the flooring industry through its 2026 Installer Training Initiative. As a long-standing partner in the Starnet Commercial Flooring network, Higgins understands that the foundation of a world-class interior is the craftsmanship of the professionals who install it.

By investing heavily in continuous education, the company ensures that its team stays at the forefront of technical expertise and safety standards, which is essential for delivering the durable, high-quality results that their healthcare, educational, and corporate clients have come to expect.

Collaborative Success with Mohawk Group Training

The recent collaboration with the Mohawk Group field service team highlighted the practical focus of these efforts. During two days of intensive training hosted at the Higgins facility in Berlin, CT, the team engaged in both classroom instruction and hands-on skills training. The program included seven installers participating in Mohawk Group’s general training for carpet and sheet flooring, followed by ten installers completing intermediate sheet training the next day. Mohawk Group field service manager Bruce Gentry expressed significant praise for the group’s dedication and was particularly pleased to see a female installer among the participants, reflecting the growing diversity and talent within the trade. As with all Higgins training sessions, every participant was paid full day wages to underscore the company’s belief that professional development is a core component of their job.

Strengthening the Ranks with Tarkett Elite Certification

This initiative follows a successful three-day training event in March conducted in partnership with Tarkett. To ensure operations remained seamless while the Higgins warehouse was active, the training was held at Bestflor, a local distributor that provided a dedicated space for the sessions. The results were impressive, with six installers passing the Tarkett Elite training program, bringing the company’s total to over a dozen Elite-certified professionals. Additionally, eight installers completed pre-certification for Tarkett Select training, while nine others participated in the Elite pre-certification process. By hosting these certifications off-site and covering all wages, Higgins demonstrated a clear investment in quality, showing their team that mastering the nuances of manufacturer-specific installations is a top priority for the firm.

The Path Forward: Why Investing in Craftsmanship Matters

The training momentum continues into late April as Higgins prepares for a comprehensive Safety meeting on April 30th to kick off Construction Safety Week 2026. This session will feature Dan Constanza from Ardex, who will guide the entire Higgins team through critical safety protocols and best practices for floor leveling and tile installation. Investing in this type of high-level training is transformative for a flooring business because it bridges the gap between material innovation and final execution. 

For a Starnet member like Higgins, providing technicians with ongoing training and the latest in equipment and chemistry ensures that every project is built to last. This commitment to excellence reduces long-term maintenance costs for clients and ensures that the reputation for quality Higgins has built since 1952 remains as durable as the floors they install.

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

The Starnet Design Awards represent a pinnacle of achievement in the commercial flooring industry, celebrating world-class interiors created through the partnership of architects, designers, and Starnet members. At the heart of this celebration is the Starnet Design Awards Jury, a group of highly respected professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to recognize excellence in commercial design with a specific focus on flooring elements. We are immensely grateful for their dedication, as their hard work and enthusiasm are what uphold the high standards of excellence that make these awards possible. This year, we are honored to introduce the four industry leaders who are lending their vision and knowledge to the judging process.

Liz Sims

With 28 years of experience in the industry, Liz Sims serves as the Director of Interior Design at Michael Graves. Liz brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the jury, having previously worked in facilities design for a financial services company. Her expertise spans the entire lifecycle of a project—from programming and concept development to installation—and she has led diverse projects across the healthcare, hospitality, and corporate sectors. An active member of IIDA, NAIOP, and IFMA, Liz is celebrated for her ability to translate complex client visions into functional, creative environments that enhance the user experience.

Caleb Salomons

As the Director of Design, Interiors at HOK, Caleb Salomons leads large-scale, high-profile workplace projects for a global clientele. Caleb’s approach is “awesome” because it is deeply grounded in work-behavior research and corporate real estate best practices, ensuring that his designs are as strategic as they are beautiful. He is a prominent voice in the industry, contributing to HOK’s Thought Leadership team and speaking regularly on the future of workplace design. Beyond his design work, Caleb serves on HOK’s Diversity Advisory Council and the Interior Designer of Alberta Council, reflecting his commitment to a more inclusive and forward-looking profession.

Brent Otsuka

Brent Otsuka, Manager of Interior Design at Fentress Studios, is renowned for creating conceptually driven, story-driven experiences. With over a decade of experience, Brent has been a key player in award-winning projects such as the Miami Beach Convention Center and the Nashville International Airport. He is a master of integrating materials, lighting, and texture to establish harmony while reinforcing a project’s core narrative. Brent’s dedication extends to the future of the craft; as the Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for the IIDA Rocky Mountain Chapter, he helped launch an Education Fund to support BIPOC students pursuing careers in design.

David Gross

Serving as the Unique Installation Challenge Judge, David Gross brings decades of hands-on field experience to the panel. As the Executive Director of INSTALL (the International Standards and Training Alliance), David is a leading authority on installation standards, workforce development, and risk mitigation. His background is remarkably comprehensive, having worked as an installer, foreman, and project manager before becoming a full-time flooring instructor. Holding an MBA and advanced credentials in Workforce Education, David provides the jury with the technical insight necessary to evaluate the most complex and demanding flooring installations.

The Starnet partnership is proud to be the most influential force in the contract flooring industry, and it is the contribution of professionals like Liz, Caleb, Brent, and David that continues to shape our industry and drive the success of our members. We thank them for their pivotal role in making the Starnet Design Awards a symbol of true professional excellence.

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

With over 170 professional contractors within the organization, Starnet members know that the relationship with a client continues long after the installation is complete. When a client calls with concerns about a new floor’s appearance, it is an opportunity to transition from a provider to a professional consultant. By leveraging the technical expertise of Bill Luallen and the XL North team, Starnet members can identify the root cause of these issues and provide definitive solutions that protect the client’s investment. 

Understanding Resilient Flooring Vulnerabilities

Resilient flooring makes up a significant portion of the commercial market due to its durability and style. However, XL North emphasizes that the common “low maintenance” label is often misunderstood as “no maintenance,” which can lead to early aesthetic issues. Each material has a specific “kryptonite” that requires specialized care:

• LVT/LVP: Highly susceptible to micro-scratching from grit and sand.
• Sheet Vinyl: Often used in healthcare, this material is prone to yellowing from harsh chemicals.
• VCT: This porous material must be protected with an acrylic finish to prevent damage.
• Rubber and Linoleum: Both are extremely pH sensitive, which can permanently discolor the surface.

Forensic Soil Analysis: The XL North Approach

XL North advocates for a forensic approach to maintenance, looking beyond the floor to the building’s surroundings. Soil isn’t just “dirt”—it’s a specific antagonist based on geography. For example, arid regions introduce abrasive sand, while snowy climates track in caustic ice-melt. Furthermore, XL North research highlights “Petroleum Migration,” where asphalt sealants from parking lots cause permanent yellow staining in entryways.

Identifying the Source: Wear vs. Damage

Before recommending a fix, XL North suggests a simple inspection to determine the “why” behind the issue:

1. The Entrance Test: If the floor is heavily worn at the main entrance, it is a wear issue caused by inadequate walk-off matting. If the entry looks great but secondary areas are scratched, is it damaged from sliding furniture or improper equipment?
2. The Mystery of the “Slippery” Floor: According to XL North, a slippery floor is rarely a product failure; it is usually chemical residue. Using “shampoo logic,” they explain that failing to rinse cleaning chemicals creates a film or “haze” that looks dull and feels slick.

Rectifying Issues with XL North Solutions

• To Remove Haze: Agitate the floor with warm water to create a slurry, then perform a thorough fresh-water rinse.
• For Surface Scratches: Use a white pad for dry buffing or apply a matte-finish maintainer to mute reflections and hide imperfections.
• For Deep Soiling: Move away from traditional string mops and utilize auto-scrubbers or cylindrical brushes to reach the “valleys” of a floor’s texture.

Final Thoughts

The best floor in the world is only as good as the plan to maintain it. By combining Starnet’s professional installation network with XL North’s advanced chemistry and training, you ensure that every project remains world-class. Thank you Bill Luallen for the great content and education, as always!

Source:

Luallen, B. (2026, March 29). You sold the flooring, now there’s issues…. XL North.
https://www.xlnorth.com/2026/03/29/you-sold-the-flooring-now-theres-issues/

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(In the image from left to right: Todd McDougal, Eric Boender, Carol Hould, and Luigi De Geso)

Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

The Starnet organization is proud to celebrate an exciting achievement by Luigi De Geso, who has been recognized with one of the tile industry’s highest honors. At the Coverings 2026 international event in Nevada, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) named Luigi De Geso the recipient of the Joe Tarver Lifetime Achievement Award.

This award honors the legacy of Joe Tarver, a former NTCA leader who guided the association for more than 30 years beginning in the early 1970s. The distinction recognizes individuals who have devoted their entire careers to advancing the global tile and stone industry through leadership, service, and innovation.

Driving Unprecedented Expansion and Innovation

Since becoming President and CEO of Mapei North America, De Geso has led the company through a period of historic growth. Annual revenue increased from $260 million to more than $1 billion, marking a major milestone for the organization.

During this time, Mapei expanded its footprint from 12 facilities to 25 advanced manufacturing plants across North America and the Caribbean. The company also grew its product portfolio significantly, offering flooring professionals more solutions than ever before.

Through his work with the Tile Council of North America and other global trade organizations, De Geso has played a key role in shaping industry standards, education, and installation practices that benefit contractors and manufacturers alike.

A Vital Link for Starnet Members

Within the Starnet Commercial Flooring Partnership, Mapei remains a valued Preferred Vendor Partner and a trusted resource for members. Over the past decade, Starnet contractors have tripled their purchases from Mapei, reflecting strong confidence in the company’s products, service, and leadership.

Starnet proudly congratulates Luigi De Geso on this well-earned honor and we look forward to his continued impact on Mapei, our members, and the flooring industry as a whole.

Sources:

Floor Daily. (2026, March 26). NTCA to present awards to Luigi Di Geso & Dan Lambert at Coverings. https://www.floordaily.net/floorfocus/ntca-to-present-awards-to-luigi-di-geso-dan-lambert-at-coverings

ProInstaller Magazine. (2026, March 28). NTCA to honor Di Geso, Lambert during Coverings. https://piprolink.com/ntca-to-honor-di-geso-lambert-during-coverings/

Floor Covering News. (2026, March 26). NTCA names 2026 award honorees ahead of Coverings. https://www.fcnews.net/2026/03/ntca-names-2026-award-honorees-ahead-of-coverings/

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

Sergenian’s Floor Coverings, a distinguished member of the flooring industry for nearly a century, has been officially recognized as a Top Workplace for 2026. This prestigious honor, awarded by the Wisconsin State Journal, reflects the company’s deep-rooted commitment to creating an exceptional environment for their employees.

A Legacy of Excellence in Madison

Since opening their doors in 1930, Sergenian’s has been a top-tier flooring brand with a focus on quality products and community leadership. Now a fourth-generation, family-owned business, the company has demonstrated remarkable resilience over its 95-year history, overcoming challenges—including multiple fires—to remain a trusted leader in the region.

This recent award highlights a culture where employees feel supported, valued, and proud of their contributions. By fostering a workplace built on craftsmanship and mutual respect, Sergenian’s continues to set a high standard for professional excellence within the Starnet partnership. 

Forward-Thinking Leadership and Sustainability

Sergenian’s success is built on pairing its family heritage with forward-thinking business practices. The company is widely recognized for its environmental responsibility, most notably its landmark guarantee that no carpet it removes will ever end up in a landfill. This commitment to sustainability, combined with expert installation and a mission to strengthen the local community, defines Sergenian’s excellence!

Setting the Standard

As a Starnet member, Sergenian’s exemplifies the dedication to quality and customer care that defines our network of professional flooring contractors. Their vision for a future where family-owned excellence leads the industry is more than just a mission statement—it is a daily reality for the professionals who work there. Starnet congratulates the entire team at Sergenian’s Floor Coverings on this well-deserved recognition of their workplace culture and continued dedication to excellence. 

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Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring

Starnet Commercial Flooring is thrilled to announce the newest addition to our cooperative, Tile & Terrazzo, LLC. As a trusted partnership of over 175 commercial flooring contractors and elite manufacturers, Starnet continues to strengthen its position as the most influential force in the industry, and the arrival of Tile & Terrazzo marks an exciting new chapter for our network in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Who is Tile & Terrazzo?

Headquartered in Suffolk, Virginia, Tile & Terrazzo is a preeminent flooring contractor known for its technical expertise and high-quality installations. Since its founding, the company has established itself as a “one-stop shop” for commercial, institutional, and public sector clients throughout Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic.

Under the leadership of CEO and President David Russell, who purchased the company in 2006, Tile & Terrazzo has built a reputation for excellence in a wide range of specialties, including carpet, resilient flooring, rubber, and, as their name suggests, expert tile and terrazzo work. Their commitment to “doing it right the first time” has fostered long-standing relationships with general contractors, architects, and designers across the region.

A Strategic Path to Membership

Tile & Terrazzo joined the Starnet family through the acquisition of long-standing Starnet member Hodgman’s Flooring (formerly Hodgman’s Incorporated) in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1970, Hodgman’s has been a pillar of the Virginia flooring community for over five decades and a member in good standing with Starnet.

The transition was a seamless strategic move, as Tile & Terrazzo acquired Hodgman’s to expand its geographic footprint into the Richmond market. Following a review by the Membership Committee and approval from the Starnet Board of Directors, the membership was successfully transferred, ensuring that the legacy of quality service associated with the Hodgman’s name continues under the new banner of Hodgman’s Flooring, LLC.

Exciting Times For Starnet

Tile & Terrazzo joining the Starnt family is exciting for many reasons. For starters, there is geographic strength. This move significantly strengthens Starnet’s footprint throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. With the Richmond and Virginia Beach/Hampton Roads markets ranking among the top MSAs in the U.S., Starnet is now even better positioned to capture growth in these booming defense, industrial, and corporate sectors.

By bringing together two companies with deep histories of craftsmanship, the combined organization is now equipped to pursue larger and more complex projects while maintaining a “customer-first” approach.

David Russell brings a unique blend of high-level financial acumen and industry experience to the cooperative. With an International MBA and a background in Mergers and Acquisitions at firms like Credit Suisse, his leadership will be a valuable asset to the Starnet network.

Please join us in welcoming David Russell and the entire Tile & Terrazzo team to Starnet. We look forward to the continued excellence and innovation they will bring to our partnership. 

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