At the end of this month (May) and the beginning of next two of Europe\'s major exhibitions battle it out once again for the attention of the world.

This time, unlike previous occasions, the two-yearly Stone+tec in Nuremberg comes first (24-27 May) and Marmotec in Carrara follows on (31 May to 3 June).

Both shows offer a wide range of exhibitors from around the world. Carrrara is Italy\'s main centre of marble production and stone processing and is enjoying some growth again after a difficult few years.

Germany has seen declining imports of stone in the past few years as its construction industry remains stagnant. Nevertheless, it still imported 2.4million tonnes of marble, granite and stone last year and there is some confidence that the bottom of the downturn has been reached and recovery is on the way.

The Carrara exhibition this time has created two specific areas, one for stone restoration and conservation and the other for computer services for the industry.

Italy, with its wealth of architectural heritage, has developed significant scientific and technical expertise in the field of conservation and the Carrara fair is showing its commitment to the sector by creating this special sector for it.

There will also be a seminar focussing on conservation subjects among a programme of high level conferences that will include the launch of the latest IMM annual report of trade in stone and the Marble Architecture Awards.

Nuremberg\'s programme of events also includes its architectural awards as part of a special \'architecture day\' they having, which is intended specifically to attract architects to the show.

Both shows are proving increasingly attractive to British visitors, especially as the stone industry in the UK is still booming.