U.S. Turns to Country with One of the Largest Natural Stone Reserves in the World

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)----The United States was named the fastest growing country in natural stone consumption(1) an industry analysts attribute this increase to a homeowner's desire for more durable, high quality and prestigious building materials. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, natural stone is the number one choice for surfaces in modern home construction.(2) In this rapidly growing market, the U.S. is turning to Turkey as an important source of this highly valued material. Turkish stone exports to the U.S. have increased exponentially in recent years - growing to more than $387 million in 2006 ( 21% growth rate from the previous year).(3) Home to 1/3 of the world's marble reserves, Turkey is rapidly climbing the ranks to become one of the leading international producers to supply natural stone to the U.S.

The history of natural stone in Turkey goes back 4,000 years. Marble, for example, has been used to adorn the country's palaces, temples and monuments, symbolizing the refinement and rich history of Turkey. In fact, two of the seven ancient Wonders of the World were built using Turkish natural stone and Ephesus, one of the best preserved historical cities in the world, was constructed of Turkish marble. "It is no surprise that many Turkish structures have stood the test of time," says Rick Arons, owner of Marble & Granite Care Professionals Inc. of Skokie, Illinois. "Experience has shown that marble and granite originating in Turkey are among the most attractive and durable available," Arons confirms.

Recent technological advances have also streamlined production in Turkey making it one of the prominent natural stone producers in the world. Turkey produced 4% of the world's share in 2001 and by 2005, it grew to 9% (increasing 125% in only 4 years).(4) Moreover, Turkey's market share in the U.S. marble industry has increased from 10.9% to 38.1% between 2000 and 2005, while Italy's decreased from 32.4% to 9.4% during this same period.(5) The overall increase of Turkey's share in the natural stone industry is due to the improved processing techniques that make high-quality Turkish stone more easily and economically available. (stonebuy)

Turkish stone will be highlighted at this year's Coverings show, one of the largest and most important tile and natural stone trade shows and conferences in North America. "With its abundance of natural stone reserves coupled with high quality stones and competitive pricing, Turkey is becoming the major resource for U.S. buyers looking for great value and superiority in stone," says Ahmet Keles, Chairman of the Istanbul Mineral Exporters' Association (IMIB). "Turkish natural stone is considered to be of excellent quality and has the widest array of colors and textures available in the world. Turkey is the only country that is able to produce travertine at an increasing rate without sacrificing quality. We are proud to bring our country's rich history and high-quality materials into contemporary design in the U.S.," Keles adds.