A Look Back at an Unforgettable Edition in Riviera Maya

From January 14 to 17, industry leaders, fabricators, installers, and partners from across North America gathered at Grand Velas Riviera Maya for the 2026 edition of C.Next Fabricators & Installers.

For more than 25 years, C.Next has brought together the best in the stone and remodeling industries for an event designed to inspire, connect, and elevate. More than a conference, it has become a space to exchange ideas, celebrate craftsmanship, and strengthen the relationships that shape the future of our industry.

This year, under the Mexican sun and surrounded by ocean views, that spirit was felt more strongly than ever.

A setting designed for connection

Set within the lush landscape of the Riviera Maya, Grand Velas offered more than a venue. It became part of the experience.

Recently ranked among the best all inclusive resorts in Mexico by U.S. News & World Report and named one of the top five hotels in the country by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, the resort provided the perfect balance between inspiration and comfort. From quiet moments by the water to vibrant evenings by the beach, every setting encouraged conversations to continue beyond the conference rooms.

Between sessions, attendees enjoyed access to the resort’s world class spa and a culinary journey across eight on site restaurants, featuring Mexican, French, Italian, and international cuisine. These shared meals quickly became extensions of the event itself, where discussions about business, design, innovation, and craft naturally carried on.

Day one: arrivals and first conversations

The event began on January 14 with arrivals and the C.Next Welcome Dinner.

It was a chance to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones, to trade stories from workshops and job sites, and to set the tone for the days ahead. Laughter, introductions, and early conversations filled the evening, reminding everyone that at its core, C.Next is about people.

The heart of the experience

Day two marked the official start of programming and captured what many consider the essence of C.Next.

From early morning coffees to packed conference rooms, the day unfolded with insightful discussions, leadership perspectives, and hands on exchanges throughout the marketplace. It was a full immersion into the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today.

Attendees heard from Cosentino leadership and industry voices on innovation, digital transformation, business growth, and the importance of building a meaningful future together. Conversations moved easily from strategy to craftsmanship, from long term vision to everyday realities on the shop floor.

In the afternoon, ties were loosened and competition took over during the annual Beach Olympics. Teams formed, friendly rivalries emerged, and laughter echoed across the sand. The day concluded with the Beach Night Party, where conversations continued under the stars and the sound of the waves.

Learning, recognition, and celebration

The final full day brought together reflection, ambition, and celebration.

Sessions explored how artificial intelligence is transforming business operations and digital marketing, how personalization and innovation are reshaping the builder market, and how fabricators can expand beyond their local regions. Panel discussions and roundtables offered honest dialogue on the current industry landscape and where it is headed.

One of the most meaningful moments came with the Rock Masters recognitions, celebrating the fabricators who embody excellence, leadership, and a commitment to health and safety within the industry. Awards were presented, rebates announced, and the newest Fabricator of the Year was named.

As the sun set, the Farewell Gala Dinner offered a final opportunity to gather, reflect, and toast to the week. Later, music filled the air at the after party at KOI Bar, where the dance floor became the last shared memory of C.Next 2026.

Voices from across the industry

This year’s edition brought together:

• 13 speakers and panelists 
• 9 Cosentino executives 
• 2 hosts, including Canadian representative Lauren Pastuszczak, Regional A&D and Builder Sales Manager at Cosentino, alongside Tracy Blackmon, also Regional A&D and Builder Sales Manager 

From keynote presentations to roundtable discussions, leaders from Cosentino and major industry associations shared their perspectives on innovation, collaboration, sustainability, and the evolving role of fabricators and installers in a rapidly changing market.

More than a conference

Over four days, C.Next Fabricators & Installers 2026 became a living snapshot of the industry.

Connection between long time partners and new collaborators.
Celebration of the craft behind every project.
Conversations about technology, design, and the future of business.
Moments of learning balanced with moments of rest.
Ocean views, shared meals, and late night laughter.

It was a reminder that progress is built not only through products and processes, but through people who care deeply about what they create.

Looking ahead

As attendees departed on January 17, suitcases were heavier and calendars fuller, but the conversations sparked in Riviera Maya will continue long after.

To everyone who joined us, thank you for your energy, your openness, and your passion for the industry. C.Next Fabricators & Installers 2026 will be remembered not only for what was shared, but for how it made people feel.

We look forward to continuing the journey together.

See you next year.