MSI

About MSI

M S International, Inc. (MSI) is a major North American importer and wholesale distributor of flooring, countertops, wall tiles, and hardscaping products. The company was founded in 1975 by Manu and Rika Shah in the basement of their Fort Wayne, Indiana, home. The couple, who had emigrated from India, started the business to sell blocks of granite, with an early milestone being the supply of black granite for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in 1981. This success prompted them to focus on the business full-time, and they relocated the company to Southern California in 1984.

Initially focused on granite for monuments, the Shahs pivoted in 1987 to the residential and commercial building sectors, foreseeing greater market potential. The business operates a B2B model, serving a diverse client base that includes retailers, builders, fabricators, contractors, and interior designers through a network of over 50 showrooms and distribution centers across the U.S. and Canada. A key partnership with The Home Depot significantly expanded its reach. The company's revenue model is based on the import and distribution of a vast selection of surfacing products sourced from over 37 countries.

In 2003, the founders' sons, Raj and Rup Shah, joined the company after careers in investment banking, helping to steer its next phase of growth. They were appointed co-presidents in 2012. Under their leadership, MSI expanded its product lines beyond natural stone to include porcelain, quartz countertops, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and mosaics, becoming a leading distributor in these categories. The company reports annual revenues of over $2.5 billion and employs more than 3,000 people in the U.S. After 47 years, Manu Shah retired as CEO in 2023, taking the title of CEO Emeritus.