Every year, the Wallcoverings Association (WA) Annual Meeting brings together the most influential voices across the wallcovering landscape—manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and industry thought leaders. Phillip Jeffries attended the 2026 gathering, hosted at the Hyatt Regency in Bonita Springs, Florida. Here's what we learned!
These events not only allow us to collaborate with fellow industry leaders, but they help us anticipate future demand and trends. We remain committed to our mission to be the world's best wallcovering company and continuing to deliver sophisticated, innovative wallcoverings that exceed expectations.
Throughout the meeting's intensive agenda we gained incredible insights, but we also like to have a little bit of fun, too! Eric Bershand, Chairman of Phillip Jeffries along with our Co-CEO Jeffrey Bershad joined members of the Phillip Jeffries team for four days of information and networking. During one of the outdoor dinner events, Eric Bershad and Aaron Kirsch, Astek CEO, caught up for a few moments.
This week was a celebration of shared knowledge and improvement. From making our tools as efficient and clear as possible to preparing for the future and adapting to the GenZ generation, Phillip Jeffries is evolving and growing right along with our clients. Meeting the Wallpaper Guys was definitely a highlight for many on the PJ Team (We love installers!), these are the three important takeaways shaping our industry today and how we are putting those into practice.
Thoughtfully Integrating AI
While AI has been a strong discussion point in all areas of life, the design world has recently put emphasis on how artificial intelligence is reshaping business strategy, creativity, and operations. As the industry transitions further into digital‑first workflows, AI is becoming a critical enabler of personalized design recommendations.
Need a digital background on calls? Experience our collections digitally and download one of our Zoom Backgrounds.
New Emerging Materials
A core focus of the WA Annual Meeting is helping the industry stay ahead of material and manufacturing innovations. Advances in wallcovering substrates, printing technologies, performance materials, and installation solutions. Manufacturers and distributors showcased cutting‑edge developments that are shaping the market.
Below is our innovative new collection, Aura, that showcases a glaze-like sheen and new printing technology.
Environmental Certification Guidance
Sustainability remains a defining priority. We are continuously improving the shared language we use throughout our material framework. Giselle Walsh, founder of Juno Solutions Group (shown above in pink) and a longtime leader in wallcovering sustainability initiatives, shared strategies for integrating sustainability into both product development and marketing. clarity to certification processes, material stewardship, and the expectations shaping environmentally responsible manufacturing. With regulations and client requirements accelerating across the design industry, this guidance helps organizations stay compliant, credible, and competitive. It's important to us that we constantly review the best practices for lifecycle transparency.
Relatively new for Phillip Jeffries, our performance PVC Free collections are shown below. These eco-friendly and versatile designs are offered on PVC Free Type II performance grounds made from recycled content. They're also low VOC, contain no PFAS, PVC, nor Phthalates, and are Red List chemical-free.
A Design Leader
Staying close to the pulse of industry transformation isn’t optional—it’s how Phillip Jeffries continues to lead with creativity, craftsmanship, and confidence. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!