The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) has named Eugenio Martínez Serna, president and general director of Grupo Daltile, its 2026 Tile Person of the Year. This prestigious award honors Martínez’s more than four decades of leadership, innovation and commitment to advancing the ceramic tile industry in North America, the TCNA said.
“Eugenio exemplifies the very best of our industry,” stated TCNA executive director, Eric Astrachan. “His leadership has not only driven the success of Grupo Daltile but has also strengthened the entire tile community through his commitment to collaboration, standards development and mentoring future leaders. Honoring him with this award recognizes a career defined by resilience, vision and a genuine dedication to people.”
Since joining the Daltile organization in 1985, Martínez has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth and long-term success. He was appointed general director of Daltile Mexico in 1995 and later became president and general director in 2006. Under his leadership, the company has expanded significantly, culminating in the 2023 integration of Daltile and Vitromex to form Grupo Daltile—now one of the largest ceramic tile manufacturers in Mexico with more than 5,000 associates, eight manufacturing plants and an annual production capacity of 66 million sq. meters.
Martínez has also made significant contributions to the broader industry through his long-standing involvement with TCNA. A board member since 2005, he supported the organization’s transition from the Tile Council of America to Tile Council of North America and establishment of TCNA – Mexico. He also contributed to the development of installation standards, installer training programs, the TCNA – Mexico testing laboratory and the creation of the Obra Blanca tradeshow, for which he serves as a board member.
