Blinds & Shutters - Issue 1/2022

Our best collection yet
The Aquarius Curtains and Romans
collection is coming early 2022!
Featuring a stunning spectrum
of colour, patterns and prints,
it’s our best collection yet.
Be inspired by contemporary
designs, functional solutions and
more recycled fabrics than ever
to choose from.
This stylish range of Curtains and
Romans also features the exclusive
WILD capsule collection, only available
within the Aquarius suite.
For more information,
speak to the Arena team
sales@arena-blinds.com
0800 389 7281
by arena

More
recycled
fabrics
than ever
before!

Launching early 2022
See more of our latest collection inside
by arena

CONTENTS
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk
Regulars
NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Soltech set for growth after announcing MBO
NEW PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . 66-74
Style Studio has new collections for 2022
Features and articles
PROFILES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-21
Harol has tailored solutions for the home
VERTICAL BLINDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Can the vertical blind be saved?
ENERGY EFFICIENCY . . . . . . . . . 26-28
Louvolite says that blinds can save energy
MARKETING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-36
R+T will be physical and virtual this year
MOTORISATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-40
Motors are getting smaller as Blinds & Shutters finds out
FABRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-44
New fabrics are being launched in 2022
ROLLER BLINDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-54
All that’s new in the roller blinds market
From the editor
Issue ONE 2022
Another year, another variant.
2022 seems to have kicked off like
last year and most of the year before
that, but it does seem there is some
respite for most people as the
vaccination programme seems to
have stopped the majority of people
becoming seriously ill.
Business is still suffering as people
still need to self isolate and this is
having a big knock on effect for many
industries. Hopefully after we get
through the winter months we will be
in a stronger position and we can
start to live normal lives again.
In this issue we have news of new
products and ranges for 2022, which
show the industry is continuing to be
creative and innovative. Consumers
are continuing to invest in their
homes, and long may this continue!
John Hatcher
editor
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk
Cover image: Courtesy of
Decora
© Copyright Turret Group Ltd 2022. All rights reserved. No part
of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any
means without the prior permission of the copyright owners.
Opinions expressed in Blinds and Shutters are not necessarily
those of the publishers or the editor.
Incorporating The Blindmaker • Est. 1952 • ISSN 0305-733X
Blinds and Shutters is available to non-qualifying
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www.blindsmagazine.co.uk
2022 ISSUE ONE • WINTER
Editor:
John Hatcher
+44 (0)1923 432 705
j.hatcher@turretgroup.com
Advertising sales manager:
Julie Saridakis
+44 (0)1923 432 705
j.saridakis@turretgroup.com
Production manager:
Carol Baird
+44 (0)1923 432 705
c.baird@turretgroup.com
Circulation:
+44 (0)141 370 3883
circulation@dimensionsmail.co.uk
Managing director:
Ian Garmeson
i.garmeson@turretgroup.com
Turret Group Ltd
Cardinal Point, Park Road, Rickmansworth, Herts, WD3 1RE, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1923 432 705 • Fax: +44 (0)1923 432 770
Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022 3

NEWS NEWSDESK: tel: 01923 437 618 mail: j.hatcher@turretgroup.com
Blinds by Post
backs the Bantams
Shipley-based online blinds retailer Blinds by Post is
celebrating its partnership with Bradford City AFC with
the launch of a range of exclusive Bantams branded roller
blinds.
The limited edition blinds will feature the
Bradford City AFC logo and will be available
to purchase on the Blinds by Post website.
Blinds by Post will be the first retailer to sell
official club merchandise outside of Bradford
City’s official retail operation.
The partnership agreement, which
commenced at the beginning of the
2020/2021 football season, saw Blinds by
Post become one of the club’s principal
partners and receive branding around the
stadium and inside the matchday
programme. The blinds retailer also worked
on the brand new players’ tunnel which was
installed at the Utilita Energy Stadium in
2020.
Oliver Hudson, director at Blinds by Post,
commented: “As a Yorkshire-based business,
we’re proud to not only sponsor our local
football team, but to celebrate our
partnership with the launch of our limited
edition roller blinds. There are many
passionate fans of the club across the city
and beyond, and we can’t wait to see how
our blinds are received.”
Founded in 2008, Blinds by Post is a
family-run business that operates out of its
factory in Shipley where every blind is handcrafted
to completion. The retailer hopes
that the sponsorship of the football club will
contribute towards investment and growth
in the Bradford district.
Davide Longo, commercial director of
Bradford City AFC, added: “We are
extremely proud of our partnership with
Blinds by Post, as with each of the companies
in our expanding commercial portfolio, and
are pleased to see the launch of these
personalised blinds. We are proud of our
heritage, and maintaining positive
relationships with local businesses is a key
area of the work we do away from the field.
“We are looking forward to seeing this
partnership continue to grow, and of course
can’t wait to see the blinds being put up in
homes across Bradford and beyond.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
A year ago, markilux's Corporate Design
was given a facelift. Last year it won the
"German Brand Award" for its new logo
which is intended to represent the
innovative force behind the business.
Christiane Berning,, who is in charge
of the marketing and business
development department, knows how
important an attractive awning design is:
"End consumers and specialist dealers
would like to feel confident that they are
investing in the right product. It's a
question of trust. By constantly
continuing to develop our solar
protection products, both visually and
technically and in the same top quality,
we are giving them that assurance. And
this is intended to help them understand
our corporate image better", she
emphasises. In order to check the
development of the company's market
presence, this medium-sized company
commissioned a target group analysis at
the renowned "Sinus Institute" in
Heidelberg at the end of 2020. The
result shows quite clearly that the brand
has become more well known since
2016. "We were able to score better in
other criteria, such as high quality, good
service, Made in Germany, timeless
design and innovative technology, too,
Ms Berning says, confirming that this has
corroborated the strategy of the
previous years. All the more because the
consumer now pays attention to such
things more than ever when making a
product purchase.
4 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk

NEWS NEWSDESK: tel: 01923 437 618 mail: j.hatcher@turretgroup.com
Soltech set for growth after
announcing MBO
Soltech Systems Limited, one of the UK’s leading suppliers
of blinds, curtains, control systems and associated window
treatments, has announced the completion of its
management buyout, backed by the managing director
Guy Simmonds and chairman, Robert Wilson MBE.
The MBO creates a platform for growth
with a clear strategic direction for Soltech
that will strengthen its position in existing
markets whilst expanding into nearneighbour
sectors.
Founded over 25 years ago, Soltech
Systems is the industry leader in commercial
blinds, curtains, and automated solutions for
a wide range of clients. Its products have
been specified on some of the UK’s most
prestigious developments, including BBC
headquarters in Cardiff, Microsoft’s flagship
retail store on Oxford Circus, and
throughout the new development at 100
Liverpool Street.
Headquartered in Maidenhead, Berkshire,
the company operates its own
manufacturing facility in Milton Keynes, which
has a reputation for quality, design and
exceptional client care. Soltech offers a
supply and installation service backed up by
an expert team with decades of expertise in
taking projects from inception through to
delivery, and currently works with many of
the UK’s leading design practices.
“This MBO is a significant milestone for
Soltech, which has grown into one of the
largest and longest established brands in the
sector,” said Guy Simmonds, managing
director at Soltech. “Along with new
investment and our ambitious growth
strategy, the MBO represents the next
chapter for the Soltech brand.”
Guy added: “Soltech’s success as a
business so far is based on our highly
experienced and capable management team,
along with our dedicated workforce. We will
be using this talent to deliver our stated goal
of growing the business through earning the
lifetime loyalty of customers.”
For contractors, Soltech provides a
comprehensive supply and installation
service that has a reputation as the best in
the industry. All project partners need to
have the confidence that they will be
completed right, first time, and Soltech is the
trusted brand for doing this.
With an upsurge in building activity over
the last 18 months, Soltech has seen
continued demand for its products in core
commercial markets. The business is now
looking to expand its presence in other
market sectors as part of progress its
ambitious growth plans.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Designer Contracts has scooped a top
industry prize for sustainability in a
prestigious industry partnership awards
scheme.
Along with Texfelt, a world leading
manufacturer of eco-engineered PU
foam replacements, Designer Contracts
– the UK’s largest flooring contractor –
took the Partners in Sustainability
category title in the PFM Partnership
Awards 2021.
The announcement was made at an
awards ceremony at The Brewery on
Chiswell Street in London, on
November 3 where more than 500
industry professionals gathered for the
facilities management event of the year.
Said Louise Walters, commercial
director at Designer Contracts: “We are
absolutely delighted to have won this
award which underlines our
commitment to environmental and
sustainability issues.”
Designer Contracts and Texfelt have
an exclusive arrangement to sell a
unique, fully recyclable underlay made
from single use plastic bottles to the
new build sector. To date Designer
Contracts has diverted over 750,000
bottles from the environment through
sales of Texfelt’s ground-breaking
SpringBond underlay.
SpringBond has the potential to save
the equivalent of 1,000 500ml PET
plastic bottles from polluting the oceans
and environment if used throughout an
average three-bedroom house.
Judges said the partnership had
proved extremely effective in having a
highly positive effective on the
environment through the reduction of
plastic waste by re-purposing it.
Said Louise: “The award is a testament
to the success of our partnership with
Texfelt – and the efforts of the team at
Designer Contracts in rolling out
Springbond to the new build sector
where home buyers are becoming
increasingly aware of their impact on the
environment.”
6 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk

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PROFILE
Tailor made
Harol says it can
tailor its solutions
for any home
Since 1946, Belgian-based family business
Harol has proved to be a well-respected
player when it comes to enhancing home
comfort. Its extensive range of innovative highquality
awnings, roller shutters, garage doors and
advanced solutions for outdoor living appeals to
both home owners and businesses worldwide.
With an eye for detail and outstanding
craftsmanship, all projects are finished with great
precision, down to the last millimetre.
Feeling at home. This has been the focus of the
products developed by Harol for many years now.
That feeling of being welcome in a house or
commercial property where the touch and feel is
agreeable and exactly spot-on. Our products which
help create cool or sheltered places, quiet spots in
and around a property or the right atmosphere in
a garden, are designed to achieve just that.
A good example of this is the Harol AIR, the
latest addition to our award-winning solar shading
outdoor concept, which uniquely combines
minimalistic design and ZIP technology in a solution
for outdoor living. Or the refined look of the
Versuz pergola. Or the super compact and
versatile vz080 or vz800 solar shading screens for
skylights and verandas to be used indoors or
outdoors, a perfect blend of design, comfort and
energy efficiency. Classic or modern? Elegant or
robust? Large or small? The possibilities are endless
and can be tailored to all building styles and needs.
We believe in natural cooling
Inspired by today’s environmental changes and
eco-friendly technologies and materials, Harol takes
great pride in developing sustainable, energyefficient
products that are good for your health and
overall wellbeing. One of Harol's most sustainable
solutions is the SC800-ZIP Solar surface-mounted
screen. A truly ingenious solar-powered screen
which provides an efficient and aesthetic solution
for glass façades. This fully integrated system
automatically activates the screen when sunlight
hits the windows. Interior spaces are protected
against the sun, excessive glare and they maintain
their coolness at exactly the right time. This
completely autonomous screen provides thermal
and acoustic insulation, while also keeping out
insects. The sophisticated mounting profile and
solar battery-system ensure that it can be installed
on existing buildings without requiring structural or
electrical adjustments. The ideal and flexible
solution for any home, office, hotel or restaurant.
8 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

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PROFILE
The future of the textile
industry is green
Sattler has a
strategy for a
sustainable future
Sattler is planning further sustainable changes
to promote even more environmentally
friendly product developments and
processes.
The corporate strategy of Sattler, is based, on
sustainable and qualitative products with a lifespan
and durability of at least 25 years. Sun protection
fabrics used outside intrinsically ensure energy
efficiency by reducing the heat input during the
summer and retaining heat during the winter.
According to a recent study of the European Solar
Shading Organisation, the CO2 saving potential in
Europe amounts to around 111 million tons yearly
and is 22 times more efficient than the savings
resulting from the EU light bulb regulation.
Additionally, all processes at Sattler are certified
according to the quality management norm ISO
9001 and to the environment management norm
ISO 14001. All processes are adjusted yearly. The
complete power consumption is fully covered
with 100% green energy and energy generated
during manufacturing processes, which is fed back
into the company’s energy cycle. By means of an
active suppliers management system we
undertake sustainable actions along the complete
value chain.
Further actions
Sattler invests in highly efficient photovoltaic
systems on its production sites in Austria. This way
we do not only use green energy, but additionally
produce our own energy. Once completed,
almost 10 % of the electricity demand is covered
and we save more than 600 tons of CO2 per
year compared to non-renewable energy sources.
Additionally, packaging materials constantly
undergo controls in order to protect the
products as best as possible for the shipment on
one hand, and on the other to keep the disposal
costs per sales unit a slow as possible. Valuable
product components such as yarn and
impregnation agents are used efficiently through
precise planning, modern processes and
automatization, and when possible, they are
reincorporated into the production process. In
addition, we pursue very clear product specific
objectives. The company continuously carries out
research to develop new recipes, new
technologies and also to ban chemicals and nonrestrictive
ingredients in textiles.
10 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Softness of a curtain,
functionality of a blind.

stylebyglobal.com

PROFILE
A winning team
S:Craft has recently
picked up a major
award, as Blinds &
Shutters found out
The team at S:CRAFT is thrilled to be
recently announced as the winners at
Corporate LiveWire – Global Awards
2021/22 in the category of ‘Wholesale Window
Shutters Supplier of the Year’.
The Corporate LiveWire Global Awards
recognises excellence from all sectors and offers
the opportunity for leading professionals and
companies who have stood out for being results
driven, innovative, and service focused to
showcase their expertise, and highlight
developments in their industry. At S:CRAFT, we
work hard to deliver on each of these areas,
building our team and capabilities to constantly
deliver for our partners in the trade, sharing in
each others’ success.
S:CRAFT continues to innovate and evolve,
enhancing our existing ranges of shutters, adding
features such as motorisation and shutter and
shade, and complementing them with an
extensive range of blinds. We offer seven quality
shutter ranges from our Portchester aluminium
range of security shutters to ABS, MDF to 100%
hardwood – there is a range to suit every
budget, requirement, and taste.
We offer products that are unique to S:CRAFT -
such as Lioni, a distinctive and beautiful product
and unlike any other on the market. The
Portchester range of shutters are crafted from
architectural grade aluminium and are CE certified,
making them a popular choice for homes in need
of added security. We also offer AnyColour and
Digital Print in the Designer Signature collection of
blinds, delivering almost infinite possibilities!
Our experienced logistics team offer a firstclass
and professional service. Our owned fleet of
vans delivers nationwide, and we offer flexible
delivery schedules and updates. S:CRAFT offers
award-winning training with six individually
tailored training courses, designed from scratch by
training manager, Mark Duwell and each course
comes with their own exclusive training materials.
Mark holds over 20 years’ joinery experience, as
well as having worked with blinds and shutters
since 2006, gaining a wide range of technical
knowledge and valuable skills for surveying and
fitting. We recognise the need to impart this to
others, training at S:CRAFT will improve our
partners' technical product knowledge, and
consequently increase their sales.
Our enthusiastic team of six highly skilled
advisors are on hand Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5
pm helping our customers with product queries,
ordering platform and factory liaison. Our
proactive and dedicated account managers are
industry experts, offering business planning advice,
and helping our partners grow. The marketing
team here at S:CRAFT provides collateral to
support and complement our trade partners’
local marketing. We pride ourselves on industryleading
levels of service, and help to drive the
success of our trade partners.
14 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

PROFILE
Always in control
Stuart Wilson,
owner of Semper
Blinds explains how
he has made the
most of his brand
It all started with an idea while driving to my
place of work at Barclays, were I had to think of
a name for our fledgling company. Trying to think
of a business name is as important as naming your
children, you want a strong name which is unique,
and in the blind industry this is even more
important to stand out with so many companies
having similar names you can get lost in Google
searches and the like.
Then as I was coming off Junction 20 on the
M62 I thought about really bringing the brand
name home by using a word from the Wilson
motto “Semper Vigilans”, Semper meaning “Always”
would be the name that our company would be
christened with and so Semper Blinds was born.
In the early years I made the decision to apply
our main product to the name to create Semper
Roof Blinds Systems, this in tandem with Semper
Blinds would give our business the unique name
and structure it deserved.
As our customer base grew, it was easy to find
Semper since a quick Google search would see our
company all over the first page and more. This was
helped further by constant promotion on blind
forums and even though we have been pushed out
of some, to this day you still see Sempers name
proudly promoted.
With Semper Blinds being a unique name, we
made the next step of protecting that name and in
2021 the name was trademarked. This meant that
the next step would mean we could stamp our
name on products so that not only will it put our
name in the spotlight to the general public, but it
also meant that if customers moved into new
homes and saw our name on the blinds, it created
a warm introduction to pass onto the closest
trader within our network. This has started to see
promising roots grow as we’ve already started
passing on jobs including TV work to some of our
traders.
After getting our branding right, we then went
one step further and made our own app. This app’s
main purpose was to create a streamlined service
that would make the Semper brand even stronger,
a free app to all our traders that would give them
instant information on outstanding jobs and a
quotation tool that can give you a price in seconds,
with more releases planned we want the app to be
the go-to for all our traders and the best thing is
that it will be completely free. In line with this and
to further push our brand we are creating a new
website which will have not just the usual
information as other sites, but a fully working
quotation tool, ordering tool and helpful videos all
in one place. Again, we want to make our traders
lives as easy and stress free as possible while
maximising their profits and free time, and with the
app, website and a few more ideas to launch in
2022 Semper will do just that.
Working in the banking industry for almost 20
years I’ve seen how brands can make or break a
business and it means more than just a name, it
means an ethos. I’ve always wanted our customers
to have one point of call regardless of the way they
communicate to Semper be it phone, email, fax or
carrier pigeon. This means that whenever you get
in touch with Semper you’re in contact with myself,
and while this means my workload can sometimes
be high it also means you won’t get frustrated with
speaking to numerous different staff members, but
with the introduction of our app, website and
bringing in more staff to cover other areas I was
dealing with in our factory, I’ve created more time
for my traders either to help them with a product
or help train them to sell using techniques I’ve
learnt from the banking industry like the Johari
window and the 666 plan or even just to have a
chat and get something off their chest.
With 2022 on the horizon, we’re looking to
stamp our branding even further on some new
products one of which will be our own motors, so
if you want to have a strong brand with a company
that will treat you like you deserve and not just a
payment, then make Semper your go to company
for all blinds pleated or cellular.
16 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Easy
Install
Safe by Design.
• Safe by Design - Child Safe - No hanging cords
• Quick Fit - Faster install time than corded product
• No safety device to be installed into customers wall
• Spring assist allows to easily position at any point
• Anti-warp
• 100% waterproof
• Easy to clean
• UV resistant
• Inherently FR
• Bureau Veritas independently tested
Available in 50mm White Smooth or White Wood Effect
and sizes up to 2130mm wide and 1830mm drop.
Marketing
material available -
Travel samples & slat cards.
Order today:
portal.blocblinds.co.uk
Become a trade partner
T: 028 7944 0130
E: sales@blocblinds.com

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PROFILE
Homes get smarter
Oliver Hudson,
director at
blindsbypost,
discusses how the
popularity of
motorised, roller,
roman and soft
blinds has changed
over the past year
Over the past few years, we’ve seen
numerous trends when it comes to
consumer behaviour in the blinds
industry. Each year certain blinds continue to stay
in fashion, while others peak in popularity
depending on interior trends and developments in
technology.
The ongoing impact of Covid-19 has
encouraged more people than ever before to
invest in home improvements or buy a new house,
leading to the industry performing extremely well
and some businesses experiencing their most
successful years to date.
The smart home
As smart technology becomes increasingly
common in people’s homes, we’re also seeing a
surge in the popularity of motorised blinds, with
blindsbypost experiencing an increase in purchases
of over 280%. These blinds are perfect for techsavvy
homes and can be raised and closed at the
touch of a button on a remote, or voice activated
through a home assistant. The latest Somfy
technology ensures motorised blinds offer
convenience, and unlike traditional blinds, no wires
or cords are on show.
Motorised blinds are available in a significant
variety of fabrics and materials, and so work well in
any room in the house.
The year of WFH
With a large proportion of the population
continuing to work from home in 2021, at least
part time, it’s clearly important for people to invest
in their surroundings. Blinds have therefore had to
be both functional and in keeping with the decor
of the house.
The popularity of vertical blinds remains
undiminished thanks to the blinds being so suitable
for home offices. Purchases of replacement vertical
blind slats have increased on average by over
300%1. With an easy glide single track that allows
for maximum control of privacy and light, they’re
versatile, economical and available in a huge range
of fabrics, colours and patterns.
20 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

PROFILE
Convenience
The average person continues to value
convenience when it comes to updating
their home. This is reflected in the growth of
Perfect Fit blinds which are designed to
simply clip into UPVC windows and doors.
This not only avoids damage through
screwing or drilling, but is quick and easy for
anyone to fit. The latest category statistics
reveal that certain ranges of Perfect Fit
blinds have generated the most revenue for
businesses, with some fabric choices in
particular growing by over 1,000%1.
Perfect Fit blinds are also a desired style
of blind thanks to being an easy and
effective way of bringing colour to a home,
offering privacy all year round, not taking up
space on window sills and being completely
child safe.
A touch of luxury
Investing in new blinds is a hassle free
way of adding a touch of luxury to the
home without breaking the bank. Roman
blinds continue to be viewed as the most
luxurious style of blind, and therefore
remain one of the most favoured on the
market.
Whether it’s for a smaller window, or a
grand window dressed with coordinating
curtains, Roman blinds are available in a
vast range of fabrics such as silk, chenille
and faux velvet. The demand for the
luxurious finish and numerous fabrics
available is reflected in purchasing
behaviour, with some ranges growing by
over 700%1.
From the year of the home office, to
people looking to add a touch of luxury to
their home without breaking the bank,
blinds continue to be a valued addition to
homes within the UK home improvement
market. With more modern blinds, such as
motorised blinds becoming increasingly
popular, it’ll be interesting to see where
the next few years take us in terms of
consumer behaviour and new
developments.
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Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022 21

VERTICAL BLINDS
Saving the
vertical blind?
Martin Cairns, MD
at Blindtex asks
Vertex, could this
be the saviour of
the vertical blind?
To be honest, no. Verticals are going nowhere
fast, but there to some extent lies the
problem. It's still popular.
If ever there was a product battered by the
trade, its verticals. We've all seen those silly offers,
up to three, four, and five blinds for £99. It's a
product that has become a bit of a commodity and
profit margins for the retailer are squeezed down
due to high competition. I mean, do you know of a
blinds shop that doesn't sell verticals?
Truth be told, vertical blinds are just not as
fashionable as they once were, in addition to not
being rated highly by a discerning customer and
nearly never picked by an interior designer due to
outdated fabrics and designs. It’s clear that this
window covering needs a makeover.
For vertex the above is a good thing, for the vast
majority of customers it's something new, different,
something that their friends and families haven't
seen yet. It gives them a chance to lead the pack in
the race to have the most beautiful home.
They filter the daylight yet still offer a view to the
outside. They are made up of a combination of
sheer and soft textured fabric and look particularly
stunning on larger windows, bi-folding, and patio
doors; they could be described as a cross between
curtains and a vertical blind.
Our success in converting vertical blinds
customers to vertex customers has been
phenomenal. Over 90% of customers have opted
to change to this style on larger windows and patio
doors. As you would expect Vertex blinds do cost
more; but you can justify the higher price quite
easily. However, this product really needs to be
displayed. When customers feel and operate the
blind it's easier to convert them especially when
you have over 3 designs and a range of 32 colours
to choose from, principally designed to suit a more
modern home.
When you sell a Vertex blind you can be
guaranteed a higher selling price whilst offering the
customer a unique and practical product with very
little competition helping your margins
considerably.
22 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Quite Possibly the Largest Battery
Powered Roller Blind ever produced!
QMotion now available with a width of up to 3.8m and a drop of up to 4.5m!!!
QMotion UK Advanced Shading Systems specialise in providing wire free
window covering solutions for the home. Whereas traditional motorised window
coverings require a qualified electrician to install 240V power wiring for the blind
motor, the QMotion UK solution requires no wiring at all. Now for the first time
the user has the ability to install a fully functional quiet motorised roller system
that provides a wire free system operated via remote control or by their smart
phone or tablet using the QMotion app. The user can remotely operate their
shades individually, by room, by elevation, by floor and all at the same time.
Contact us today for the best automated blinds on the market.
www.qmotionshades.co.uk
info@qmotionshades.co.uk
+44(0)1908 047 980
@QMotionUK
QMotionShades
qmotionshades

OUR SERVICE IS YOUR SUCCESS
VERTEX BLINDS
Blindtex introduces Vertex blinds to the UK trade market. Suitable for larger windows and patio doors.
Vertex is now the fastest growing window treatment within our product range.
CHOOSE YOUR VIEW
With Vertex blinds, you can achieve several
different privacy options;
• Clear view - Slide the soft fabric vanes to
one side to enjoy a clear outside view.
• Sheer view - Place the vanes into the open
position and enjoy a partial view with privacy,
ideal for daytime.
• Closed view - Rotate the vanes to the closed
position to enjoy total privacy, ideal for
nighttime.
Vertex blinds filter the daylight during the day yet still offer a view to the outside. Made up of a combination of
sheer and opaque textured fabric. Vertex blinds look particularly stunning in larger windows, bi-folding and patio
doors and could be described as a cross between curtains and vertical blinds.
0161 818 9915 0161 818 9915
sales@blindtex.co.uk www.blindtex.co.uk

VERTEX BLINDS FABRICS
Available as full rolls, louvres only, louvres with header
and hanger, or entirely made to measure blinds.
Manufactured using hotwire cutting technology, we
ensure a fray free cut every time.
•Oval: Filter the light in style
Oval Ice Oval Pearl Oval Baby Blue Oval Teal Oval Cinder
Vertex Cutting Machine
•Classic: Create effortless elegance every day
Classic Snow Classic Ivory Classic Latte Classic Shiny Grey
Classic Dark Grey
30
sku’s
Over three designs, you can
ensure your customers find
what they are looking for.
•Stripe: A timeless design, the perfect addition to any home
Stripe White Stripe Cream Stripe Mid Cream Stripe Dark Cream Stripe Beige Stripe Light Brown Stripe Brown Stripe Light Grey
Stripe Silver
Stripe Graphite
Stripe Gold Stripe Pink Stripe Purple Stripe Mint Stripe Forest Stripe Lilac Stripe Royal Blue Stripe Navy Stripe Red Stripe Black
PERSONALISE YOUR BLINDS
HEADRAIL COLOURS
White - Brushed Steel - Piano Black - Brown
Champagne Gold - Graphite
FASCIA COLOURS
White - Graphite
ABOUT BLINDTEX
Blindtex is a premium UK-UAE based window coverings’
firm. For over 25 years, our team has provided quality
products, exceptional brand experience and bespoke
window treatments to various business sectors in the
Europe, Africa and MENA region.
CUSTOMER CARE
Our sales and service teams are here for you, with
direct access in a more personal way via video or
voice call directly from our website or even WhatsApp
for convenience.
Website
Trade accounts will have access to our photo library for
your website and promotional material.
0161 818 9915 0161 818 9915
sales@blindtex.co.uk www.blindtex.co.uk

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Improve your winter
warmth and reduce costs
Louvolite says that
its blinds can cut
down heating bills
The majority of individuals will recognise
that appropriate window shading provides
a number of benefits; decoration, privacy,
light control and of course they can reduce the
amount of heat entering the home from solar
gain.
Perhaps it is not so widely recognised that the
other side of the coin to reducing solar gain is, in
fact, their ability to reduce thermal loss – in other
words they help retain heat in rooms that could
otherwise be lost through the windows.
Over the last few decades a lot of work has
been done to improve building standards, no least
of which can be seen in windows. The
performance of window glazing to reduce heat
loss is stated as the U value of the glazing, and for
glazing, the lower the U value the better the
performance of the glazing. That said, single pane,
clear glass windows might still have a U value as
high as 5.8 and as such have relatively poor
performance in reducing heat loss through them.
As the UK is still seen as a relatively cold
climate, it was no surprise that when double
glazing was first introduced to the consumer in
the 1980s, it started to take off and the major
selling benefit was that it would reduce heat loss
and help keep homes warmer. There were of
course additional benefits, but heat loss and draft
reduction were the primary ones. Indeed when
you compare the U Value of a typical double
glazed window today it would be classified as 2.9,
which is half of the U value of a single glazed clear
glass pane – showing a significant improvement.
Ok – but what about blinds? How do they fit
26 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
contnues on page 28

SOLAR
FABRiCS
COLLECTION
Awning fabrics
More contemporary
New range of stripes
A pallet of harmoniously
toned colours
Material effects through
transparency
More natural aspects
Changing plains
the art of weaving by Dickson ®
SAS DICKSON CONSTANT - capital 12.640.000 euros - 381 347 970 R.C.S. Lille Métropole - Photos : Landry Laurie - Glen Raven TM is a trademark of Glen Raven, Inc. - Dickson Constant is a Glen Raven company
LUXAFLEX - 0161 442 9500

ENERGY EFFICIENCY
into this scenario?
In tests carried out by Glasgow
Caledonian University in the late 2000s
using a variety of window blind types, when
the blind was fully deployed in conjunction
with single pane (sashed) glazing the
following information was established.
For a typical closely woven fabric roller
blind (such as one using Louvolite Carnival)
was used in conjunction with the single
pane (sash) e window, it showed a 40%
reduction in heat loss than the window that
was without shading.
When an equivalent honeycomb
(cellular) blind was used (similar to
Louvolite’s Halo honeycomb/cellular fabric),
the reduction in heat loss was seen to be
51%.
Now they calculated that changing the
single pane glazing to double glazing would
only provide a 58% reduction in heat loss,
so the benefits associated with “humble”
roller and cellular blinds is frankly staggering.
Ok, so the results seen in those
University tests were showing heat loss
reductions when compared to single glazed
windows, but the majority of the modern
UK home stocks have double glazed
windows. So how do blinds perform with
other glazing types?
We already know that the reduction in
heat loss of a freehanging closely woven
fabric roller (such as Louvolite Carnival)
blind can reduce heat loss by 40%. But
calculations show that even with double
glazing - when used in conjunction of a
freehanging closely woven roller blind - heat
loss through the glazing can be reduced by
an additional 25% over the performance of
the glazing alone.
Even with double glazed low e window
glazing - when used in conjunction with the
aforesaid blind type - a further reduction of
11% can be achieved and that rare beast
triple glazing can be improved by a further
9%.
It is also recognised that the closer the
blind is installed to the window, the better
the performance of the combination of
shade and window. Needless to say, that,
installation of products such as Louvolite
Perfect Fit must be done to satisfy the
requirements of Louvolite’s installation
instructions, but the reduction in gaps seen
around the edge of the reveal helps further
reduce heat losses.
If you go to the next step, take the
Louvolite Perfect Fit Universal installation
method with a Louvolite cellular fabric,
install this outside the recess of the window
and this would surely effectively create a
barrier to warm air in reaching the window.
If the cellular fabric was Louvolite Luna
that features an aluminium inner film, then
this helps reflect heat back into the room
and assists in reducing heat losses.
Now we are all affected by the increase
in rising energy bills with a number of
energy companies already going to the wall,
leaving those that remain desperate for a
further rise to the energy cap, which would
result in even higher charges.
It makes sense for the consumer to have
the additional – sometimes forgotten –
benefits of our industries products
explained to them at the point of
presentation to help them make the right
choice – a blind for all seasons!
28 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

ALLURE COLLECTION
Discover
more
ra-irwin.co.uk

MARKETING
All on show
There is a diverse
programme at
R+T 2022,
featuring live
streaming on its
digital platform
It's almost time: R+T will be opening its gates
from 21 to 25 February 2022. Experts will
finally meet again in Stuttgart to discover the
latest products from the world of roller shutters,
doors/gates and sun shading systems live and in
colour. In addition, the varied accompanying
programme of R+T in Stuttgart invites visitors to
develop their know-how and expertise and
exchange information and ideas directly with
industry experts. "The entire team of R+T is really
looking forward to the big industry get-together!
After this long period without any personal
encounters, we are excited to offer our visitors
both tried-and-tested and new programme
highlights that leave nothing to be desired", says
Sebastian Schmid, department director of
technology at Messe Stuttgart. Special shows,
forums and workshops will share important
industry know-how, while providing information
about the latest trends and challenges within the
sector – both at the trade fair in Stuttgart and
online at www.rt-expo.digital/en.
Like at R+T 2018, this edition of the leading
world trade fair will also include the special show
OUTDOOR. AMBIENTE. LIVING. in the Rothaus
Park. Well-known manufacturing companies such
as Bahama, CARAVITA, Corradi, EURO
MARKISEN, KE Deutschland, Leiner, Lucas
Outdoor, Markilux, MDT-tex, Mühlich GmbH,
SHADESIGN and WAREMA present their
innovative sun shading and weather protection
systems with a focus on outdoor dining: From
awnings to parasols and sun sails through to patio
or lamella roofs, as well as diverse accessories – all
30 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
continues on page 32

THE
INTERIOR SHUTTERS
COLLECTION
Tropical Blinds are a UK manufacturer offering the trade an independent choice of
custom blind collections designed for you and your customers.
Our Interior Shutters Collection are skilfully hand-made by quality craftsmen. Your
customers can select from one of our many paint or stain finishes or opt for a custom
colour to complement and enhance their home.
You can see all our product ranges and first class customer support systems at
tropicalblinds.com

MARKETING
this can be admired and tested directly on
site in real conditions at the special show
OUTDOOR. AMBIENTE. LIVING. in the
outdoor area of Messe Stuttgart.
The theme of this year's special show of
ift Rosenheim at R+T 2022 is "Climate
Protection!". The focus is on climate change
and its consequences. The special show in
Hall 7 shows what components and sun
shading systems can and must do today in
order to protect people against heat and
other climate extremes, as well as to reduce
CO2 emissions. The exhibits from heroal,
eyerise / Merck and MHZ Hachtel, as well
as the presentation of technology and
quality features of sun shading systems,
glazing, roller shutters and controls, take
centre stage in the promotional areas of the
special show.
The well-known Door/Gates Forum also
takes place again within the framework of
R+T 2022. The National Federation of
Door and Gate Manufacturers (BVT), the
German Federal Association for Door
Operator and Control Technology (BAS.T),.
and ift Rosenheim, as well as the
international associations ACMI – Italian
Door and Shutter Association, European
Door and Shutter Federation (E.D.S.F.) and
the Spanish Association of Automatic Door
Manufacturers (APA), jointly create the
presentation programme for this edition.
Association representatives and experts will
examine current challenges and technical
developments in the industry in short
presentations and discussion panels. "The
Door/Gates Forum will provide valuable
and varied insights into the topics of
doors/gates and automatic doors. And we
also want to make this content available to
our online visitors. Therefore, the
presentation programme of the Door/Gates
Forum will be streamed live on our online
platform", adds Sebastian Schmid.
In addition, there will once again be a
workshop by ES-SO, European Solar
Shading Organisation, on the future of sun
shading systems. "The seminar is a mustattend
event to obtain information about
the latest trends, developments and projects
of the ES-SO, which are presented by wellknown
members, industry experts and
academics", says Sebastian Schmid. The
seminar takes place in English on
Wednesday, 23 February 2022, from 9:30 to
12:00.
Also at R+T 2022 there will be various
programme highlights for architects because
the leading world trade fair is a true source
of inspiration for everyone who wants to
expand their design freedom with new
materials, ideas and technologies. Apart
from the special marking "Architecture
Premium" of exhibitors with a special offer
for architects and planners, there will also
be presentations and workshops in
cooperation with the Baden-Württemberg
Chamber of Architects, as well as in the
"Textiles Architecture" area.
The upcoming R+T will be a hybrid
event, i.e. it will take place on the trade fair
grounds in Stuttgart and in digital format
using the new online platform. This digital
enhancement can be reached using the
known URL www.rt-expo.digital/en. "We
want to enable all visitors, regardless of any
travel restrictions or pandemic limitations, to
take part in R+T and make information
available to them up to R+T 2024", explains
Sebastian Schmid. "For this purpose, we will
set up an "R+T Stage" at R+T in Stuttgart
from where we will live stream the
presentations relevant for our target group
and then make them available as ondemand
videos. This way all visitors will also
have the opportunity to obtain information
about the trends and product innovations in
the industry."
Visitors of the leading world trade fair
can find this and other exciting programme
highlights either on site in Stuttgart or
online at www.rt-expo.digital/en.
All information about the accompanying
programme of R+T 2022 is available online
at www.rt-expo.com/accompanyingprogramme.
32 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Sun protection
Sun protection
Sun protection
Sun protection
Outdoor Living
Roller shutters
Discover our full range
of custom-made solutions
on www.harol.com
Roller shutters
Outdoor living
www.harol.com

MARKETING
All change
at the office
Workplaces have
had to adapt since
the pandemic.
Here are five key
trends from
Waverley
envy” is one of the
most unexpected outcomes of
“Workplace
the pandemic, as firms invest in
their office environments to entice employees back
following long periods of working from home. As a
result, interior design and refurbishment projects
are increasingly turning to textiles for flexibility,
sustainability and a softer feel to what some
consider to be the harsh reality of the office.
Here are some of the key trends we expect to
see from specifiers in 2022.
1. Flexible Workspaces
Offices are becoming more flexible. With teams
rotating, smaller spaces are the norm. However, the
occasional meeting or conference means those
walls must be pushed back to give each participant
as much room as possible given continued Covid
responsibilities.
Curtained-off booths are proving the answer for
many, as shown at the Panagram building in
Camberwell and Bureau’s coworking space in
Greenwich Design District.
2. More sustainable materials and
processes
Half of all curtain and blinds specifications now
come with sustainability criteria. The London Plan is
setting a standard likely to be followed by other
cities. Developers and architects must ensure every
aspect of the building exceeds expectations. So
they require materials made from recycled content
and simple-to-repair forms which can themselves
be recycled.
‘No VOC’ stipulations are commonplace, which
means PVC-free fabrics such as Verosol
Enviroscreen are increasingly being specified. As the
top developers tackle scope 3 emissions, they are
probing further back into the supply chain.
Waverley’s access to locally sourced materials and
multiple European manufacturing plants has helped
secure contracts as specifiers put environmental
considerations up the agenda.
Ben Vowles, specification manager,
Waverley
3. Automation
The UK has been a little slow to the party when
it comes to automating blinds and curtains. This is
changing as the benefits of reducing solar glare
while retaining connection to outside and natural
light are recognised. Employee wellbeing and
performance is improved by ensuring the right
level of natural daylight reaches into office
buildings.
It is standard to have floor to ceiling glazing in
buildings across London and, while natural daylight
is one of the most important elements of any
office, solar glare can dazzle occupants and make it
impossible to read screens. When buildings, like 22
Bishopsgate, have 3m high ceilings, such levels of
natural daylight bring challenges of managing solar
heat gain and glare. Solar heat gain has a significant
impact on building efficiency, whilst glare has a
detrimental impact on employee comfort and
productivity. High performance screen fabrics
provide good through vision while their metallised
backing reduces glare and solar heat gain. The use
of such fabrics combined with automation ensure
that working conditions remain at optimum levels
in terms of natural daylight and temperature.
4. Home from home
As many employees have benefited from
34 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
continues on page 36

MARKETING
working from home, amid
comfortable, warm
surroundings, their
employers have had to
transform the office space in
order to tempt them back.
Waverley sees much greater
uptake of curtains in office
buildings as a result. At Alpha
Bank and Regent’s Place,
curtains add a softer feel
and improve acoustics which
makes the office space more
human and homely.
Curtained off areas at 88
Wood Street facilitate
conversation, which is one of
the main reasons workers
want to see their colleagues
face to face. One other
aspect has taken off during
Covid – the antimicrobial
properties of some fabrics
further reassure employees
that it is safe to return.
5. Better Acoustics
Many designers are breaking up the
open-plan office. They can curtain off a
soundproofed area within the open-plan
environment and it becomes almost as
effective a soundproof barrier as a glazed
partition – and twice as attractive.
Systems such as Création Baumann
Vario feature layers of rubber membrane
between acoustic fabrics. They reduce
noise by up to 16dB – to absorb sound,
rather than just dampening acoustic
vibrations.
Drop ceilings are also in vogue to
improve acoustics in open plan spaces.
Products such as Kvadrat soft cell acoustic
ceilings and wall panels dampen noise
which can otherwise be detrimental to
productivity. The panels are clad in many
different fabrics so integrate into the
interior design.
Expect to see more examples of all
these trends in Britain’s commercial
property refurbishment and new
developments during 2022.
FROM THE FIRST SKETCHES
TO A SATISFIED CUSTOMER
BLINDS • ROLLER
BLINDS • AWNINGS
www.isotra.com
EXTERIOR BLINDS
• HIGH DEGREE OF PROTECTION AGAINST SOLAR RADIATION,
• EFFECTIVE PROTECTION OF PRIVACY,
• REDUCTION OF HEAT ALREADY IN THE EXTERIOR,
• REDUCTION OF THE AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL,
• DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENT OF THE FACADE.

Great prospects ahead.
NOW
for the next
summer season
markilux pergola compact
| Brand | Website
Designer awnings. Made in Germany.
Innovative technology and highest quality, outstanding when it
comes to relaxing outdoors. Create the most alluring shade in the world.
For additional information please go NOW to markilux.co.uk

MOTORISATION
Sometimes less is more
Louvolite says that
a small motor can
pack a punch
Whilst many people see them as
traditional or even a thing of the past,
bay windows are still incredibly
popular and often used to create that extra little
bit of space within a special room. In earlier times
these windows helped elevate a “normal” home
into a more desirable one that could stand out
amongst those with standard window systems.
The recent re-emergence of modern bay
windows would indicate that they are being reinvented
and rediscovered as architects and
building designers go back to the future for
inspiration.
Of course, such elegance can also command
special measures in window furnishings and
occasionally these special measure introduce
limitations to how and with what such windows
can be furnished.
Roller blinds have become a ‘go to’ product for
bay windows. They have the flexibility to allow
many combinations of blind position with all of
the panes being shaded equally, or any pane being
shaded at any level at any time to allow total
flexibility for shade, privacy and outlook.
Of course this also requires consideration as to
the operating system that the consumer chooses.
Louvolite’s roller blind programmes offer a
combination of operating systems including spring
operated systems, chained systems with
appropriate breakaway devices and cord tidy
items for consumers who prefer cooperating
chains firmly and safely secured.
There is now, however, a further option
available for those customers who seek a
different path – Louvolite’s delightfully named
“1200 Short“ motor. Operating within Louvolite’s
System 35 and 40 programmes, this super motor
unit features a significantly reduced length to
allow it to be used in those narrower than normal
windows that are such a feature of bays.
In order to allow for such a reduction in length,
the battery unit is separate to the motor unit. The
neat battery pack can be housed easily behind
the cassette or fascia, out of sight with a discreet
connection to the motor that it then powers. The
battery pack features a suitable, simple
connection port for recharging to ensure this
infrequent requirement won’t create problems.
This latest entry into the growing family of
Louvolite motorisation products will no doubt
find a special place in the heart of bay window
loving homemakers.
38 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

MOTORISATION
Upgrade previously sold
blinds for safety and profit
Louvolite says that
simple upgrades
can impress
customers
Blind supply companies work tirelessly to
ensure that the service levels experienced
by their customers is second to none. Apart
from the satisfaction they get from doing a great
job by giving the level of service that, hopefully,
exceed expectations, they also secure any
recommendations and any future work from the
customer, be it domestic or commercial.
Receiving calls from an existing satisfied
customer brings its own reward in the knowledge
that they are again going to entrust you with their
business – that said, it can also provide further
opportunities to satisfy needs the customer didn’t
even know they had.
Often, revisiting a home not only leads to
discussions regarding how to satisfy new window
furnishing needs, but it also includes conversations
about the previous products purchased and how
well they have operated and indeed, continue to
operate. It is at this stage that conversations could
take place regarding how such a product could be
upgraded or modified.
For example, Louvolite’s System 32 roller blind
programme is without doubt one of the most
widely used systems available today. The system
features a relatively simple way of being upgraded
by replacing the fabric to either to a new solid
colour to match refreshed décor, or one of
Louvolite’s fabulous designs.
Another way to achieve a simple but very
effective upgrade is to change the manual
operating system into a motorised unit – this can
be done by introducing Louvolite’s all new 500
Series lithium powered motor. All that would be
needed would be for the existing side control unit
to be removed from the System 32 tube and the
motor unit inserted – no need to change the
brackets or anything else - a simple plug and play
system to use the common vernacular.
Of course, this doesn’t have to be seen purely as
a decorative or technical upgrade. Changing from a
manual operating system to a motorised unit such
as the 500 Series automatically (no pun intended)
makes the blind completely child safe. Peace of
mind at a very reasonable cost.
So think of these opportunities to make your
customers’ Louvolite blinds even more satisfying
whenever you are invited back into their home. Of
course another option would be to mailshot/eshot
all previous customers and make them an offer to
upgrade their existing blinds by using Series 500.
40 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

EVERGLADE
NEW
EVERGLADE
COLLECTION
Launching this January, our latest collection of Wood Venetians. The range features
a host of contemporary colours and stains, all of which are made from paulownia wood
– which is recognised as one of the most sustainable wood sources.
Choose from timeless whites, stylish greys or beautiful stained oak, walnut and more.
Give your customers even more choice for their windows.
For more information, speak to the Arena team sales@arena-blinds.com 0800 389 7281

FABRIC
New fabrics launched
Softcell by the
Fabric Box has a
range of benefits,
as Blinds &
Shutters found out
Softcell, by the Fabric Box couldn’t have
launched at a better time as consumer
interest and demand grows for this product.
Cellular fabrics offer a profusion of benefits, the
delicate linear form and angles of each Softcell
fabric cell are delicately woven to offer a selection
of translucent, dimout or blockout properties.
Following the unprecedented reception of the
Softcell collection in June 2021, 5 new fabric ranges
are being introduced totalling an impressive 57
fabrics across 10 ranges. This enhanced Collection
offers additional fabric properties; Tribeca presents
two contemporary printed textures with a dimout
and blockout waterproof finish, enabling these
fabrics to be perfect for area of high moisture.
Soho, a blockout FR will service the contract
market, whilst Bowery, a stunning crushed cellular
fabric, exclusive to Softcell boasts a delicate
textured finish to both sides of the cellular
construction. Artisan, a cellular voile facilitates
consumers to obtain optimum light control for
those seeking privacy during the day and blockout
properties at night.
Softcell is the perfect choice as we enter the
cooler Winter months, the delicately constructed
25mm cell structure creates a pocket of air which
acts as an additional insulation layer. This natural
insulation pocket offers excellent energy efficiency
properties in the cooler months whilst reducing
heat gain in the Summer. Consumer demand has
never been as focused for energy efficient blind
solutions with the constant and escalated cost of
home heating bills.
In addition to the new cellular fabrics, Softcell
will offer a combination collection book in January
showcasing a comprehensive range of the 57
cellular fabrics with the addition of 88 pleated
fabrics.
The pleated collection is presented by colour
showcasing a range of plains, textured weaves and
printed fabrics with a mix of dimout, SPC and
blockout properties.
The Softcell cellular and pleated Collection can
be manufactured with multiple operating systems,
bottom up and top-down bottom up; both suitable
for corded or for free hanging operation. The
25mm cells make Softcell the ideal fabric for
Perfect Fit frames. The patented frame adds further
insulating properties creating an additional barrier
from heat loss.
42 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

WINNERS! WHOLESALE WINDOW
SHUTTERS SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR!
TO FIND OUT MORE
: 0333 202 5054
: connect@s-craft.co.uk
The Team at S:CRAFT are so proud to be
announced as winners by the Corporate
LiveWire Global awards 2021/22 for
Wholesale Window Shutters Supplier of the Year!
If you are interested in working with an
award-winning wholesaler, get in touch today.

FABRIC
Pushing the boundaries
This year sees the
launch of the new
Fabric Box
collection, as
Blinds & Shutters
found out
The Fabric Box has been at the forefront of
the UK window blind market since its
initial conception in 2010. From its infancy,
the Fabric Box has always been renowned for
pushing the boundaries and creating trend led,
quality and extremely practical fabrics for roller
and vertical applications.
January 2022 sees the much-anticipated launch
of the new Fabric Box Collection.
As homes continue to transition into a Zen
state of wellbeing, creating a more sustainable
lifestyle and home is evident. With today’s
volumes of plastic waste being at the fore of
news headlines Arona is a sustainable roller and
vertical fabric produced from recycled PET
plastic bottles from the ocean. Skilfully crafted,
Arona helps build a greener home while
embracing sustainability.
Renowned for being industry leading with
designs, the Fabric Box has made a conscious
effort to ensure the selection of designs serve all
consumer tastes. Building on an accumulation of
trend based research, industry knowledge and
experience, the new designs present a desirable
offering which will not only look stunning in a
showroom presence but in any home.
Maintaining the reputation of the variety and
quality of print base cloths, the Fabric Box
presents a mix of soft botanicals, watercolour
print effects, texture prints and clever injections
of colour that portrays perfectly balanced and
future proof designs.
44 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
continues on page 46

Manhattan Collection
Day & Night Blinds
ptblinds.co.uk
01274 568822

FABRIC
The desire for peace and harmony in
the home is stronger than ever.
Consumers are creating their own
sanctuary with their home, and the
interaction they have with it has been
prioritised.
Tropic Lima encompasses outside
elements, adding a natural highlight to the
home, the perfect balance between style
and tranquillity. The palm leaf simulated in
uniform lines forms symmetry, and works
perfect as a roller blind, creating a relaxing
and calming equilibrium.
Texture has been a core focus of the
book; each new weave has been designed in
the UK through collaborations with
experienced textile designers to emulate
sophisticated weaves blending multiple yarns
to create stunning multi textured finishes.
Merging new look texture fabrics with
enhanced fabric properties sets The Fabric
Box apart from its competitors. This focus
and investment into texture development
meets consumer demand, over the last 3
years the demand for textured fabrics has
increased significantly. Sophisticated weaves
resonate quality and comfort that
consumers desire. Textured fabric adds
depth and richness to a room without
invading or conflicting with current design
schemes.
Expanding Blockout textures, Hayworth
is presented with a colour matched
backing, designed to merge functionality
without compromising style. Innovative
fabric designs have been selected with
creativity and flexibility in mind,
contributing to a collaborative collection.
Sirocco is a unique addition to the
Easicare section, offering horizontal
textured PVC.
The consumer journey has also been
enhanced throughout the Fabric Box. All
texture fabrics are displayed by colour
making their fabric selection hassle free.
Perusing through the textures highlights
the sheer level of choice available within
The Fabric Box; each page sees a plethora
of new and existing best sellers.
The New Fabric Box presents innovative
fabrics and expertise that add a harmonious
flow and inherent connection to the natural
world. The perfect balance of existing and
new skilful, artistic fabrics, The Fabric Box
has advanced and is designed to replenish
and refresh, providing desirable qualities to
interior spaces.
east anglia blinds_quarter page_BLS1-12 16/12/11 12:30 Pa
Louvolite VogueTrack
for Trade Customers
VANE SERVICE AVAILABLE
now available with Allusion
Conservatory and
Window Blinds
Specialists
Motorisation options
available
fax: 01492 539581
Available in white, brown,
champagne, black &
silver
• Does not twist
• Trouble free
fitting
■ Panel blinds ■ Pinoleum blinds
■ Pleated blinds ■ Roller blinds
■ Roof blinds ■ Roof roller blinds
■ Vertical blinds ■ Conservatory blinds
■ Motorised blinds
01603 404040
enquiries@eablinds.co.uk
www.eablinds.co.uk
46 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
bend it_quarter page_iss1-19.indd 1 14/12/2018 12:13

ge 1

CURTAIN WALLING
Ultimate protection
Curtain walling can
protect from heat
and be a pleasing
aesthetic choice
according to
Raynaers and
Renson
Avoiding overheating – especially in terms of
the large glass surfaces of curtain walls –
was the catalyst that inspired Reynaers
Aluminium to team up with Renson to search for
the ultimate product combination of curtain walls
and sun protection. These two Belgian businesses
joined forces on the Reynaers Aluminium
ConceptWall 50 and Renson Fixscreen Minimal
Curtain Wall 50. The result is an exhaustively
tested Belgian total solution that makes life easier
for everyone involved in the construction process,
from architects to installers to clients.
An aesthetic total solution
Combining these innovations coalesces them
into an aesthetic total curtain walls solution that is
easy to install, but doesn’t lose sight of the details.
They come together seamlessly due to the perfect
alignment of the façade and sun protection profile
detailing. The combination is simply finished with
the preferred Reynaers ConceptWall 50 cover
profile.. This joint development reduces the total
number of required profiles to only 3 pieces
instead of 5, i.e. the Reynaers Aluminium cover
profile and base couple guide and the Renson
coupling side guiding channel.
Thoroughly tested and easy
to install
This product combination was subjected to
extensive testing procedures (including pressure
tests) by the Renson and Reynaers Aluminium
Research departments. The co-development was
also assessed and tested backwards and forwards,
e.g. in terms of mutual fixations and profile sagging
under extremely high pressure. Based on these test
results, both the system guarantees and the
possible applications were coordinated, ensuring
the highest quality and warranty. In terms of wind
resistance, this combination also retains the
Fixscreen Minimal’s wind guarantee of up to 130
km/h. What’s more, this total solution is quick and
easy to install. Not only is there less screwing with
just 3 profiles instead of 5, but now that everything
is perfectly matched and has been tested as a
consolidated solution, the installer is no longer
forced to hunt for a suitable solution.
Fixscreen Minimal Curtain
Wall 50
With its minimalist look, the Fixscreen Minimal
Curtain Wall 50 is a perfect match for curtain wall
design. This solution takes thermal expansion into
account and is infinitely joinable as a result. The
coupling side guiding channel of only 50 mm (as
wide as the ConceptWall 50 window profiles)
guarantees central fixation to the curtain wall,
preserving the integrity of the curtain wall.
Reynaers Aluminium
ConceptWall 50
Concept Wall 50 is a façade and roof system
that guarantees unlimited design freedom and
maximal transparency. As an innovative solution, it
meets all the technical and design requirements of
contemporary architecture using large, thick and
heavy glass panels weighing up to 700 kg in
combination with parallel opening windows, pocket
windows or tilt & turn windows.
48 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

SMART IN A MINUTE
Eve MotionBlinds motors, developed by
window covering specialist Coulisse in
collaboration with smart home specialist
Eve Systems, work with Apple HomeKit
technology directly from the iPhone, without
a bridge or any cloud dependency.
motionblinds.com/eve
Discover
more

ROLLER BLINDS
World in motion
Coulisse and Eve
announce
availability of Eve
MotionBlinds
motors for early
2022
Global window coverings specialist
Coulisse and smart home specialist Eve
Systems announced that MotionBlinds,
the smart technology for window coverings by
Coulisse, will add Eve MotionBlinds motors with
Apple HomeKit technology starting from early
2022. Eve MotionBlinds are the first motors on
the market to support Thread, drastically
simplifying installation, automation and control of
motorized blinds. Starting with roller blinds, Eve
MotionBlinds will be distributed through a
network of Coulisse resellers from early 2022. Eve
MotionBlinds motors for curtains, Venetian blinds
and cellular shades will become available later.
Future-proof thanks to
Thread
Because Eve MotionBlinds does not require a
proprietary bridge and supports Bluetooth and
Thread, setup is completely intuitive: just scan the
HomeKit setup code with the iPhone's
camera. When HomePod mini or the latest
Apple TV 4K are present as border routers, Eve
MotionBlinds automatically join the fast and
reliable Thread network.
“With the integration of Thread, Coulisse and
Eve take a head start on the connected home
future that awaits the blinds industry”, says
Christiaan Roetgering, owner and CEO of
Coulisse. ”By enabling installation, automation and
control directly on the iPhone, Eve MotionBlinds
are the perfect complement to our fully integrated
window coverings offering.”
Jerome Gackel, CEO of Eve, adds: “Not only is
Thread the third native protocol used by Apple
HomeKit, complementing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, it
will also be a cornerstone of Matter, the smart
home standard of the future that is currently
50 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

ROLLER BLINDS
being developed by Google, Amazon, Apple
and numerous IoT manufacturers. Thread is
sure to become the new standard in lowpower
home networking. And as every
Thread-enabled Eve accessory can support
the Matter standard, our new Eve
MotionBlinds motors are a future-proof
choice for consumers.”
Eve MotionBlinds
Benefits
Simplicity is the main driver behind
MotionBlinds, and blinds powered by Eve
MotionBlinds motors perfectly exemplify
this value. As they don’t need a
proprietary bridge and support both
Bluetooth and Thread, setup is super easy:
Simply scan the HomeKit setup code with
your iOS device. If a Border Router is
present, which for HomeKit over Thread is
HomePod mini or the new Apple TV 4K,
Eve MotionBlinds will join the Thread
network automatically.
Putting the blinds on autopilot is
effortless, thanks to on-device, networkindependent
schedules that can be created
in the Eve app. And through HomeKit
Scenes and Rules, the blinds seamlessly and
securely interact with other HomeKit
accessories, like light bulbs, thermostats,
motion detectors and other sensor-based
accessories.
Just like any Eve accessory, Eve
MotionBlinds are designed to safeguard user
privacy. Instead of relying on a cloud, like
most applications, all data and intelligence
are stored locally on the motor.
Availability &
Requirements
Roller blinds powered by Eve
MotionBlinds motors will become available
from Coulisse resellers in early 2022. Eve
MotionBlinds motors for curtains, Venetian
blinds and cellular shades will become
available later.
Eve MotionBlinds require an iPhone or
iPad with the latest version of iOS/iPadOS
14 or later. Controlling HomeKit-enabled
accessories automatically and away from
home requires a HomePod or an Apple TV
(4th generation or later) as a home hub.
CUT & WELD PERFECT ROLLER BLINDS
Matic M1
- Automatically cuts on four sides
- Fast and Accurate
- Athenea Software links to
your Order System
- Utilises part rolls or pieces
- Automatic Nesting
- Minimal Waste
- Users report over 25%
material savings and increased
production
Matic M1-PC Cutting Tables
&
Matic Impulse Welders
All Matic machines are Industry 4 compatible
www.atech.co.uk
Matic Welders
- Automatic fold and weld
- Perfect for vertical blinds
- 3 - 8m welding widths
- Weld Zips, Pockets, Splines
and much more
- Seamless welding, no shine
- Weld fabrics with welding
tape
- Semi or Fully Automated
- Simple to use

ROLLER BLINDS
Essence of motion
Cruze motors can
keep you in control
of your blinds
Modern living celebrates simplicity and
ease of use. Cruze Roller Motors have
been developed to present a smart
window covering solution to that enhance and
enrich our living experience. Controlling you
window shading solutions simply with a touch of
a button is the essence of the Cruze motor
brand. The recently launched roller motors have
proven immensely successful to date as they can
be retro fitted enabling current chain operated
blinds to be motorised. This facilitates the perfect,
smart technologically led home improvement
allowing homeowners to filter light and manage
privacy at the touch of a button.
Underpinning the creation of Cruze motors
was the focus from conception, to combine
precision engineering with simplicity and function
for smarter living. The battery powered motor
has been designed to fit industry standard 32mm
or 40mm roller tubes enabling easy installation
without the need to stock additional
components for manufacture. The retro fit option
facilitates already manufactured roller blinds to
be motorised with ease with the added benefits
of quiet and smooth operation.
Blind operation with Cruze can be integrated
with your home further when paired with a
Somfy home integrated solution hub. The Somfy
connectivity kit allows users to control their
blinds from a smart phone, whilst connecting
Cruze motors through a Tahoma hub can enable
the user to link other smart home devices
including voice assistants, set timers to enhance
your home security if there is no one at home
along with the ability to set scenarios for
different rooms.
A further benefit to Cruze roller motors is it’s
competitive pricing making the smart home
more attainable to all homeowners. Combined
with its ease of installation and effortless
programming, through the Cruze 4 channel RTS
remote motor set up can programme a single
blind or group different blinds, enabling users to
control multiple blinds simultaneously.
2022 will see the Cruze motor brand extend
to service other window blinds offering a
comprehensive modern living window covering
programme.
52 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

TAKE CONTROL WITH THE
32MM & 40MM MOTOR.
Soft closure at end limit, bi-directional wireless controls, smooth 21rpm and 40rpm
motor speeds, up to 300 complete open & close cycles per charge.
Control from your smart device with the Home Hub.
CONTROL YOUR HOME
FROM ANY DEVICE,
ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.
WWW.ELLARD.CO.UK | 0161 945 4561

ROLLER BLINDS
Doubling up
One bracket, two
shading solutions –
The R20D double
roller blind from
Yewdale
Yewdale manufactures premium quality
products for commercial and public
environments. The R20D double roller
blind, the latest made to measure addition to their
YewdaleDefiant blind system range, are here to
make life a little easier. The design is attractive and
practical.
Double roller blinds are easy to install and ideal
for multi-functional environments. The system only
requires one fixed metal bracket to which both
barrels are mounted. One blind is installed in front
of the other and are both easy to use using their
individual metal control chain. A child safety device
secures the chains to the wall to prevent them
from becoming hazardous or getting in the way.
The Yewdale double roller blinds are durable
and maintenance-free. They, like all their blinds,
come with a lifetime warranty. The R20D
incorporates reduced friction, enhanced hold,
long-life properties, and advanced chain loading.
These features ensure their blinds operate
smoothly and are resilient.
The R20D double roller blind comes as
standard with a metal chain and white universal
brackets to install top fix or face fix depending on
the installation. The barrels can be 40 or 45 mm
to suit different blind sizes and fabric weights, with
the fabric locking into a groove in the barrel. An
enduring white plastic bottom bar with a fabriccovered
front completes the apparatus.
Yewdale has some fantastic optional extras if
the standard R20D double roller blind system
doesn't suit your needs. These include alternative
fully fabric-covered, aluminium, or plastic bottom
bars. You can opt for wire or channel side-guiding
systems, and they offer geared mechanisms for
more extensive and heavier blinds.
Order as made to measure blind system or buy
as individual components for your manufacture.
The YewdaleDefiant R20D system has a minimum
width of 200mm, a maximum of 2650mm and a
drop of up to 3350mm.
Their double roller blinds offer better
protection for a variety of situations. They are
perfect for environments such as hotels or student
accommodations that require blinds to suit day
and night. Our R20D system allows you to choose
whichever two fabrics best suit the building at
hand.
Choose a screen fabric if the building struggles
with direct sunlight as it can be left down all day
to protect against solar rays. This fabric improves
privacy by preventing people from looking in, yet it
allows occupants to see out. Daylight fabrics
further enhance privacy while permitting natural
light to shine through. Dimout fabrics darken
rooms but let some light seep in, while our
blackout fabrics are the best option for total
darkness with 100% light exclusion. (Please note
light will still seep around the edges of a roller
blind so, a cassette blind is a better option for a
complete blackout). There's a fabric for every
situation. You can choose blinds that offer shade
from harsh sunlight to enhanced privacy.
Our fabrics come in a range of colours so you
can create the best visual effect. You can choose
between different fabric styles but with the same
colour for consistency or mix the colours for
something different. Each has the characteristics
we know you value. Some of our fabrics have
solar reflection, offer UV protection, or are
antimicrobial. Others are Greenguard certified to
have low chemical emissions. All of our fabrics are
fire-retardant. If you want something safe, durable,
and attractive, Yewdale is here to help.
54 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

ALLURE COLLECTION
Discover
more
ra-irwin.co.uk

AWNINGS
A warm reception
Climate change
means that awnings
are becoming more
popular according
to Caribbean Blinds
The last 18 months have seen the demand
for external shading systems (in particular
house awnings) skyrocket – a trend that
shows no signs of slowing down. A national
lockdown paired with some of the best weather
the UK has ever experienced has resulted in
people spending more time in their gardens and
outdoor spaces than ever before.
The warmer weather has also spread across the
channel to our neighbouring countries, with
research from Copernicus (the European Union's
Earth Observation Programme) revealing that
Europe is warming up faster than any other
continent and at a higher rate (roughly 0.9°C)
than the global average.
As temperatures continue to rise and society
begins to adjust to the ‘new normal’, outdoor
living is certain to remain in full swing, with the
increasing popularity of outdoor shading products
expected to grow with it.
What is a house awning?
Put simply, a house awning is a retractable fabric
canopy that attaches to the side of a property and
extends and retracts using spring tensioned
folding arms which keep the fabric taut at every
position. Typically, motorised operation via a
handheld remote control or app on your
smartphone allows for maximum control and
convenience, while manual operation using a gear
box and detachable crank handle provides a more
cost-effective solution for those who may only use
their awning on an occasional basis.
A recent report carried out by Fact.MR reveals
that outside the US, Germany boasts the biggest
market for ‘haus awnings’ in Europe, followed
closely by the UK and then Italy. According to the
report, the retractable awnings industry is
projected to continue growing at a consistent rate
until 2028, at which point demand for this type of
shading will be at its peak.
The benefits of house
awnings
House awnings are so popular because not only
do they offer additional privacy (particularly in
built-up areas) and add a striking new dynamic to
any façade, but they serve two main functions
56 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
continues on page 58

clic
PLEATED, HONEYCOMB
& VENETIAN BLINDS
Our clic bead-fit system’s ultra slim design has been developed to fit perfectly onto any double-glazed
window but is particularly suitable for bi-fold doors and tilt-and-turn windows.
With clic, there is no need to measure the window’s bead depth as this system has been carefully
engineered to fit all window frame depths with a single bracket type.
It’s clever, fold away handle makes it ideal to use on bi-fold doors where it is important that the blind
does not protrude further than the window frame.
Please contact your Area Sales Manager to see a sample of clic along with the beautiful collection of
venetian slat finishes and pleated and honeycomb fabrics, that are available with this blind.
tropicalblinds.com

AWNINGS
essential for a healthy living environment.
Firstly, they provide instant shade from
sunlight; both heat and glare (bright light),
outstanding UV protection (typically 95%
minimum UV block) and shelter from
unexpected rain showers. This particular
type of shading allows all types of outside
spaces to be utilised throughout the seasons
– even more so when equipped with
additional accessories such as LED lighting
and infra-red heating.
Secondly, house awnings provide a muchneeded
cooling effect to the indoor room
adjacent to where they are positioned, both
during the summer and winter months. As a
result, they ensure a comfortable indoor
living space, eliminating any bright light to
prevent glare, all whilst filtering damaging
UV rays to stop fixtures and furnishings
from fading.
Why is the demand for
awnings on the rise?
The multiple lockdowns and restrictions
enforced on the UK and the rest of Europe
since March 2020 have presented many
homeowners with the perfect opportunity to
renovate or remodel their properties, with
research* showing that at the start of
summer 2020, 49.2% of Brits planned to
invest the money they had saved by not going
on holiday to upgrade their garden specifically.
In addition to this, the hospitality sector
has been doing all it can to welcome
customers back with open arms since the
official lifting of lockdown back in July, whilst
still adhering to social distancing rules where
necessary. With the ability to provide a
quick, easy and affordable solution to
transform any outdoor space, awnings are
not only ideal for residential properties but
commercial, too. Both practical and stylish,
retractable awnings provide instant shade
and shelter and can be designed and built to
each application’s exact requirements.
58 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Becker Motors Ltd
Becker Motors Ltd specialises in the manufacture and supply of motorised curtain tracks, Roman
headrails and sun protection hardware.
Offering the latest in Smart Home, Radio and Hardwired Technology.
Call us today for expert advice and a friendly, prompt, service. Tel: +44 (0)1283 536700
sales@beckermotors.co.uk www.beckermotors.co.uk
Bloc Blinds
Bloc Blinds are a leading designer and manufacturer of simple, clever roller blinds. The Bloc Out offers
unmatched levels of darkness, giving customers a better nights sleep. Offering a range of safe by design
products, order safely online via our Portal.
For exceptional service and UK produced blinds, sign up today.
info@blocblinds.com www.blocblinds.com
Coulisse
Since 1992 Coulisse has been developing window coverings for the residential and the
commercial market. The extensive range of Coulisse window covering solutions stands out
for its innovative design, appeal and great functionality, and includes systems, fabrics and
motorization. Visit our website to discover our products and services. Be inspired by our
world of window coverings.
coulisse.com
Dickson Constant
Innovative textiles for your world. Five words that attest to our powers of innovation and global
reach. Innovative in textiles is what drives Dickson to conquer the markets of the future and meet the
challenge of improving people’s living space.
kwild@dickson-constant.com www.dickson-constant.com
Don Smith Blinds
We offer a Survey, Manufacture and Fit service for Perfect Fit International Roof and Gable blinds (including
motorised) - you get the sale, we do the rest, under your company name with full after sales support.
Or, supply only Perfect Fit Blinds (Pleated, Roller, Vision & Venetian), standard Pleated, Roller, Vision, Vertical, Allusion,
Panel blinds and Retractable Insect Screens.
info@donsmithblinds.co.uk www.donsmithblinds.co.uk
East Anglia Blinds Limited
E. A. Blinds can supply you with a fantastic range of pinoleum blinds, pleated blinds, roller blinds, roof roller blinds,
venetian blinds, vertical blinds and Vision blinds.
Offering a national and international service to the blind and conservatory industry.
enquiries@eablinds.co.uk www.eablinds.co.uk

Ellard
Ellard is the UK’s largest supplier of drives and controls used to automate industrial doors, shutters,
garage doors, blinds and gates. Over the course of the last 67 years and through our acquisition of
NRG Automation, we have developed some of the very best market-leading products supported by the
largest technical and customer service teams in the UK.
sales@ellard.co.uk
www.ellard.co.uk
ISOTRA
BLINDS AND ROLLER SHUTTERS. ISOTRA is the Czech producer of interior and exterior blinds, fabric roller
blinds, plisse blinds, Japanese panel blinds, pre-window exterior roller shutters, insect screen, awnings, screen blinds
and pergolas. ISOTRA has its own development workplace, design center, modern tool shop, pressure unit for
thermo-plastics and wide manufacturing operating units.
dvorsky@isotra.cz www.isotra.com
Lienesch
Lienesch is specialized in decorative, functional and technical fabrics for interior window coverings. Tailored for use
in the home market, project market and all objects on the move. In our UK warehouse we have selected products
available, allowing a next day service for full rolls or cut lengths.
Ask for the possibilities and let us inspire you!
info@lienesch.co.uk www.lienesch.com
Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd
Superior Uni-Blinds® double glazed units complete with ScreenLine integral blinds.
Venetian and pleated options with 5 operating systems to choose from, including a magnetic slider and
smart-home compatible motorised blinds from the UK’s market-leader. Wide range of colours available
– reliable, maintenance-free and perfect for bi-fold and sliding doors.
sales@morleyglass.co.uk morleyglass.co.uk
Sattler SUN-TEX
Sattler SUN-TEX - technical textiles at the highest level
Sattler SUN-TEX has developed to become a leading supplier for technical textiles, manufacturing fabrics for sun,
antiglare and privacy protection for residential and commercial buildings, as well as boat cover fabrics and
weatherproof outdoor upholstery fabrics at our state-of-the-art facilities.
mail@sattler.com suntex.sattler.com
Semper Blinds
Semper Blinds is a family run business with over 30 years’ experience. Specialising in a UK survey & fit service for
PFI conservatory roof blinds, we aim to give you a service that is hassle free for you and your customer.
We make all things cellular and pleated in manual and motorised formats in our Manchester based unit.
semperblinds@gmail.com
www.semperblinds.com
SHY
Innovation, expertise and heritage are at the heart of SHY’s shading solutions. Embracing challenge,
we design and manufacture commercial roller blinds for windows of all ages, shapes and sizes that
incorporate a wide range of manual, electric and ZIP® options.
info@shy.co.uk www.shy.co.uk
Supa-Shade Blinds & Awnings Ltd
Supa-Shade offers Dutch Blinds in Kit form or complete, covered ready to fit. Also an extensive range of Extrusions
with Nylon Components to match.
Our computerised Bending Machine enables us to bend most shapes in the design and style to suit your needs.
Telephone us on: 01803 522887
tony@supa-shade.co.uk www.awningsdevon.co.uk

AWNINGS
Knowing when to fold
The folding-arm
cassette awning
MX-3 by markilux
has met the taste
of the end
consumer
The MX-3 has been on the market since
2019 . The company had invested many
years of development into the product. So
expectations were correspondingly high as to how
the awning would score with the end consumer.
This seems to have borne fruit as after the first
two years the MX-3 is in the process of writing
history in all the important European markets,
according to the manufacturer.
Michael Gerling, director of R&D and
Production at markilux, is highly satisfied with the
introduction of the MX-3 into the market. The
investment made in the development of the
product, including far-reaching market analysis, has
paid off in his opinion . "The awning has far
exceeded our expectations. In nearly all our core
markets, it has managed to take off from being a
new product to one that's selling really well. And
with very strong sales figures nearly everywhere."
Entry into the market at just the right time
He puts the enormous popularity that the MX-
3 has found with customers down to its modern
design and to the fact that it can it can be
personalised with different colours. That is possible
by way of the front styling profile, the fabric
pattern and the "Selection MX" colour range. Mr
Gerling adds that both design-orientated
trendsetters and the more demanding of
customers, who tend to appreciate a classical style
more, have found this product attractive. The
more so because the awning suits many
architectural styles. Numerous optional
accessories and the latest technology have met
the demands of the target group precisely
according to Mr Gerling. He emphasises: "We
introduced the awning into the market at exactly
the right time. Now we have yet another
successful model amongst our range of foldingarm
awnings."
The broad choice of colour options is, in his
opinion, a key factor in stimulating sales. Even
though the trend continues to lean towards grey
and non-colour shades. Simply having a choice at
ones disposal seems to engender a feeling of
security. In addition, there are also very designorientated
customers who are looking for
something exclusive, of course. And, he says, the
MX-3 was able to offer this through the "Selection
MX" range of finishes. This combines highly unusual
colours and surface finishes with special metallic
effects applied to the front styling panel of the
awning. Consequently, this model does not appeal
only to home owners. It is also an awning that is
suitable for businesses, if the cassette and front
styling profile are matched to the façade of the
building. According to Michael this means, the MX-
3 is a genuine allrounder: "We will exploit the
success of this model in the years to come and
continue to develop it in line with the wishes of
the customer ", is his aim.
60 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

HAFREN
EFFORTLESSLY ELEGANT
/hav-ren/ Welsh
noun
A legendary Welsh Princess who was
drowned in the River Severn by her stepmother.
Hafren is the Welsh name for the River Severn.
RETRACTABLE
CANOPY
ABOUT
A modular electrically-operated retractable canopy.
Utilises highest quality Makefast sliding roof
systems.
Canopy retracts to the rear at the press of a button.
Marine-grade 316 stainless steel roof frames.
FEATURES
Module width up to 4m
Module projection up to 6m
All modules can be linked
Marine-quality waterproof fabrics
Proudly designed and manufactured in Wales
info@shashe.co.uk
01686 629010
www.shadeandshelter.co.uk

AWNINGS
Contemporary control
Caribbean Blinds
offers
contemporary
shading solution to
complement
traditional
property
Whether you live in a new build or a
more traditional property, a modern
contemporary awning could be the
perfect solution to transform your outdoor
space, allowing you to utilise it in all weathers,
and with the added bonus of extra privacy.
In June 2021, Caribbean Blinds delivered a
highly effective and stylish shading solution in the
form of a modern motorised awning to
complement a traditional country garden setting
in Maidstone, Kent, proving that the external
shading specialists cater for every need and
every kind of property.
When was the project
started/completed?
After receiving an initial enquiry from the
client at the beginning of April, Caribbean Blinds
carried out a detailed site survey and
consultation (with full quotation) later that
month. After the order was placed in May, the
team got to work designing and manufacturing
the bespoke Cuba Awning which was later
installed on the first official day of summer in
June.
What was the original
customer brief?
The client required a quick and effective
solution that would provide adequate shade and
shelter to their outdoor terrace without
obscuring the view out into the rest of the
garden, and without the use of any unattractive
framework or obtrusive fixtures.
With ‘ease of use’ high up on the list of the
client’s priorities, the main objective was to
install a motorised awning (fully operational by
62 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

AWNINGS
Focus BO
remote control) that also complemented the traditional style of
the countryside property.
Stuart Dantzic, managing director of Caribbean Blinds, explained:
“After carrying out a detailed site survey and consultation where
we ran through all of our different model options, hardware and
fabric samples, we shared photos and videos of similar projects so
the client could envisage their desired end result. The client chose
the Cuba Awning in Anthracite Grey with a flush fitting cassette
and simple clean rectangular design, so it would not look out of
place when not in use.”
“This project is proof that our modern contemporary awnings
work well on even traditional countryside properties. The client
now has an outside space that they can fully utilise in all weathers,
with the added bonus of extra privacy from any nosey neighbours.
We are thrilled to have swiftly provided a sleek and effective
lifestyle solution that appears fully integrated with the property.”
Taking just a day to install with minimum fuss and maximum
attention to detail (followed by a full demonstration and run
through on how to operate the awning) the Caribbean Blinds team
successfully met the client’s brief and transformed a major focus of
the property to allow for comfortable, enjoyable living all year
round, no matter the weather.
Caribbean Blinds’ retractable awnings provide instant shade and
shelter, offering full protection from the elements and resulting in
the ultimate al-fresco living space. Compatible with both single and
two-storey façades and with the ability to design and build bespoke
brackets, they have been designed with every application,
requirement and budget in mind.
fabulous fabrics
Lienesch-Style is specialised in technical
fabrics and hardware for the project market.
We have a comprehensive screen,
roller and hardware collection.
In stock and available from our UK warehouse
allowing a next day service for full rolls or cut lengths.
Quoting for a contract? Please contact us.
delivery from the UK
Lienesch Ltd
Unit 2 - Hunslet Trading Estate,
Severn Road, LEEDS, LS10 1BL United Kingdom
Tel. 0113 8681066
sales@lieneschstyle.com
lieneschstyle.com
Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022 63

AWNINGS
A world of potential
markilux drives
digitalisation in
production forward
Thinking about tomorrow today: that is the
markilux maxim. And, that is why the
awning manufacturer is investing heavily in
the expansion of digital structures and in
automation. This is particularly important in
production as it enables the company to meet the
demands of the market and the growing order
situation. In other words, there has been
considerable change within the company over the
past few years.
Today, digitalisation has been established in all
departments at markilux. It is the basis for further
growth as it requires well-networked, efficient
working practices within the company. This is
particularly important in production. That is why
many processes are now software-controlled.
“We’ve already come a long way in this respect
in technical cover manufacturing. In assembly, on
the other hand, a considerable proportion of the
work is still manual. But here too, we are in the
process of successively developing procedures
further," explains Michael Gerling, director of R&D
and production. For example, the company has
added a tool to its CAD software that can be
used to visualise design drafts and simulate
assembly processes. Assemblies and components
are specified on the computer as are suitable tools
and technical instructions that need to be
followed. A further new software product makes
it possible to automatically create production
drawings from design drafts much faster than was
previously the case. The data is then sent to the
corresponding machines by entering the order
number in order to process profiles automatically.
Such projects will help make production even
more efficient and safe. In this respect, the
company’s employees make a significant
contribution with their ideas and experience.
Digitalisation also makes it possible for sawing
processes, bespoke orders or component picking
to run parallel to other routines. At the same time,
according to Michael Gerling, the “driverless
transport system” ensures regular replenishment
from the magazines to avoid down time. He
stresses: “It is essential that interrelated working
steps are timed precisely throughout the entire
production chain. Because after production, it only
takes a few hours until the finished awnings are
shipped.”
In view of the momentum that both
digitalisation and automation have undergone in
recent years, Mr Gerling is certain that this
development will continue. Currently, for example,
the company is working on changing all assembly
instructions and initial training documents for new
employees into a paperless format. Another
possibility is the use of collaborative robots, socalled
“cobots”. In the future, they could be
working hand in hand with the specialists at the
plant. The awning expert also sees further
potential in virtual reality technology being used
more than it has been to date and in the
optimisation of drive technologies with digital
processes and the better coordination of staff
absences through digitalised shift schedules with
stored employee qualification profiles. The
company is also planning an app which will target
the workforce at the plant with a wide range of
information.
Digitalisation in the company is a multifaceted
concept and links different departments and fields
of expertise with one another. Its success is very
clearly demonstrated by more efficiency and a
lower error rate. A decisive factor in this ongoing
process is to involve the employees at an early
stage, to listen to their concerns and to take those
into account. “Today, we have a young team that
secures know-how, transforms it into a digital form
and drives the process forward. Consequently
there is a lot happening in the company. And that
is really fun to see. Especially because there is still
plenty of potential for development, meaning that
things will stay exciting in the company in the
future too,” explains a satisfied Michael.
64 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

CHOOSE SEATTLE SHUTTERS FROM CUSTOM WEST
There’s plenty of reasons why our Seattle range of engineered hardwood
shutters are one of our most popular choices for customers:
Made from Polymer wrapped MDF for extreme durability • Sustainably sourced timber
Wipeable and easy to maintain • Consistent high quality finish without Knots or Graining
Ideal for high traffic areas and family homes • Available in 9 Contemporary Colours
Genuine Easytilt ® hidden tilt rod option • Bay Posts and Shaped Battens available
For more information contact 0800 681 6076 or visit customwest.co.uk

NEW PRODUCTS
Looking for
something new?
Hive fabrics are a
unique selling
point, as Blinds &
Shutters found out
As fashion and lifestyle becomes more
interchangeable, consumers are always on
the hunt for something new, exciting and
unique!
Hive is a cellular structured fabric, giving increased
insulation as well as a contemporary, sharp look. The
fabric is anti-static, with heat blocking and sound
absorbent properties; Hive really is the superior
fabric choice for blinds.
It’s unique structure means there are no visible
holes. Unlike pleated blinds which can have small
holes to allow for the cording to hold the pleat in
place, the cords in cellular fabrics are discreetly
hidden within the cells giving it that elegant, clean
finish. Although the fabric is light, the structure is so
innovative that it holds its shape firmly and doesn’t
falter, creating a strong statement in the window over
a standard roller or vertical blind.
What are these ‘heat-blocking’ qualities? Hive takes
the crown as one of the best at energy-saving of all
fabric types, each honeycomb cell in the fabric traps
air helping to keep your room cooler in summer and
warmer in winter. This means they are suitable for a
wide range of rooms and window types, appealing to
a variety of customers.
Style Studio’s Pleated and Cellular collection
boasts an offering of plains, blackouts, textures and
designs, some of which have fire retardant properties.
Hive fabrics are versatile, with the standard option
allowing for soft, beautiful light to penetrate through
the fabric, coming in an array of bright and neutral
colours, as well as subtle prints to add something
extra, without feeling overwhelming. For those
consumers who require extra light control, Hive
blackout is an excellent option.
The popularity of cellular and honeycomb fabrics
has significantly risen over the last few years. Once
considered to be an exclusive luxury, Hive is now an
affordable product making its presence known in the
consumer market.
66 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

Venetian & Vertical ALL SHAPES
SEE US AT
SCOTTISH INTERIORS
SHOWCASE
Tuesday 22nd &
Wednesday 23rd February 2022
Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa
• Bespoke manufacturer of shaped
vertical and shaped venetian
window blinds
• Manufacturing handmade
blinds Since 1986
• Only using the highest quality
components
• International sales
Blindshapers Ltd
Festival Works, Spragg Street,
Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1QR.
T: 01260 297976
F: 01260 297515
sales@blindshapers.com
www.blindshapers.com
Blindshapers Ltd are trade suppliers only and direct all non
TM
trade enquiries to our nearest trade partners.
• From individual blinds to
large projects

NEW PRODUCTS
On the beach
Junkers & Mullers
has a new ‘Beach
Club’ collection
newly available
Junkers & Mullers invites you on an enticing
discovery tour with its new roller blind print
collection "Beach Club".
Four travel stages lead into variously inspiring
theme worlds. "by the sea" is the name of the first
stop. Ethno patterns in boho style unfold a maritime
atmosphere here. The designs are available in both
classic navy blue and purist white-white. The
structured woven base fabric makes them
particularly homely.
And it continues under the motto "go north!"
with cool graphic designs entirely in Scandinavian
style. Fine lines or generous brushstrokes - the
prints with their naturally pastel colors conjure up
Nordic lightness in the room.
The next stage takes us right into the heart of
nature, because "we love it naturally". And not just
because of the naturally floral designs and colors.
Junkers & M llers is committed to nature and the
environment at the same time, which is why we
also use recycled materials in our UPcycling
products.
With "perfect glow", the journey comes to a
glamorous end. Metallic shimmering print designs in
classic floral and ornamental motifs spread a touch
of luxury.
The new collection book presents the prints in
combination with selected JM plain fabrics. Beach
Club" is a true trend book that is full of ideas for
redesigning your own four walls.
68 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

NEW PRODUCTS
New collections for 2022
Style Studio has
introduced new
roller and vertical
collections for
2022
Style Studio is excited to introduce to its
brand-new Roller & Vertical Collections for
2022. We have developed each range to be
full of colour, patterns and textures. The collection has
been developed with interior trends in mind to
ensure it is on style and current.
Both the Roller and Vertical collections have an
extensive range of colour options from modern
nudes to bold statement colours. The company has
also been working hard with designers to create
bespoke patterns that are sure to make your
customers go WOW.
The weaves won’t disappoint either. From subtle
nature inspired textures to modern woven patterns,
there is something for every room in the home.
Style Studio has been working hard to develop a
wide range of eco recycled fabrics. All of the fabrics
in its eco ranges are made with 100% recycled
polyester. They are all made from post-consumer
recycled PET bottles which allows us to repurpose
waste, reduce energy and water consumption,
reduce our carbon footprint and it is also a versatile
yarn which gives us a high-quality product. Not to
mention it’s a great story for the consumer!
Brand-new look!
The launch of a new collection is exciting for our
design team, because it means we get to create
brand-new pattern book. This book is like nothing you
have seen before!
The new books made a statement with their
contemporary grey colour complemented by a gold
marble foil design. Look out for our new gold corner
edges, gold foil inside and gold mechs to complete
the look.
The company listened when you said our book
was heavy, so it has reduced the size and weight of
the Roller book. The reduced book size has allowed
the company to add in our Palette and Banlight Duo
FR ranges as colour waterfalls at the start of the book
in both Roller and Vertical. This lets customers see the
full range at a glance and makes it easy to browse all
the options.
The company has dedicated children’s and blackout
sections without our Designs side of the book with
tabbed pages, allowing customers to easily browse
these areas if they have a specific requirement for
these fabrics. Also refreshed are the Children’s ranges,
softening the colours and bringing them in line with
the styles you currently see in soft furnishings.
Textures are an ever-popular product type in the
market. The company has a range of new subtle,
tactile textures to the collection in both Roller and
Vertical to offer customers a wide choice.
Patterns are a great opportunity to showcase
something different and catch the consumers
attention. Look out for the new eye-catching designs
for this Collection. From stylish stripes to bold florals,
inspire your customers to make a statement.
The wide range of colours, textures and patterns in
our new Roller and Vertical Collections are set to
help you step into 2022 in style.
70 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022

The perfect way for bonding your vertical
blinds, quick, very easy to use, with a superb
neat finish and no unsightly holes!
Available with a 3 sided weld attachment.
Great alternative to a sewing machine.
Tel: 0116 2611055 / 0116 2611066 Email: sales@micropneumatics.co.uk
Micro Pneumatics Ltd
1 Palmer Street
Leicester LE4 5PT
MICRO PNEUMATICS
INNOVATION – AUTOMATION – SERVICE

NEW PRODUCTS
Wire free partners
Waverley and
QMotion bring
wire-free
motorised shading
to commercial
sector
An innovative hybrid-power shading solution
has been launched which brings all the
benefits of motorised blinds with none of
the costly power supplies and electrical works to
occupants and designers of commercial buildings.
Waverley, which specialises in improving the
performance and aesthetics of public and working
spaces, and automated window treatment experts
QMotion have partnered to bring a completely
wireless and near-silent shading solution to the
commercial market, called the ShadeTech RBL-QM
Hybrid Roller Blind.
The system works from a patented, hybrid
counterbalanced spring and D cell replaceable and
recyclable alkaline batteries concealed within the
tube of the blind system.
As the batteries work in conjunction with the
counterbalanced spring, they only require a small
amount of charge to operate the blinds, which
means they have an extended life and can last for
up to 3 years. The system is more effective and
sustainable than traditional battery-operated blinds.
Daniel James, managing director of Waverley says,
“It’s not often in the solar shading industry that a
72 Blinds & Shutters • ISSUE ONE 2022
continues on page 74

Semper Blinds
At Semper Blinds we are a
trademarked family run company
with over 30 years combined
experience, where we offer a range
of pleated and cellular blinds, in a
manual and motorised format. All
of which are made in house by our
team in Rochdale, Manchester.
Website
www.semperblinds.com
Queries
semperblinds@gmail.com
Orders
semperorders@gmail.com
Mobile
07766 600131
Fax
01706 662441
What we do?
3
3 Freehangs
3 Skylights
3
3
UK Survey and fit service for
PFI conservatory roof blinds
in pleated and cellular fabrics.
5-year warranty and
Lantern Blinds (PFI framed skylights)
a 5* service
Perfect fit (pleated, cellular and venetian)
Venetians (metals and woods)

NEW PRODUCTS
new roller shade disrupts the market, but
ShadeTech powered by QMotion does just
that. Wire-free control and high performance
at a highly competitive price.”
The maintenance and replacement of
batteries is simple with easy access due to
their central location within the roller tube.
In addition, the alkaline batteries can be fully
recycled which helps towards environmental
credentials.
Users can operate the versatile motor via
wall switches, remote controls and even
manually, with a tug on the bottom of the
blind. The multi-channel remote controls up
to 5 individual blinds or 5 groups of blinds or
a separate ‘control all’ function with one
remote control. Each channel can have an
unlimited number of blinds programmed to it.
Ideal for Any
Environment
ShadeTech RBL-QM is the perfect retrofit
solution as no electrical cables are required
to provide power to the blinds, so the
existing decor is not affected. It is equally a
great solution in new buildings, offering
savings on cabling costs and concealment,
whilst still providing all the aesthetic and
functional benefits of a mains powered blind.
With a maximum size of 3.8m by 4.5m,
RBL-QM fits most standard glazing sizes in
traditional and contemporary spaces. It can
be combined with the comprehensive range
of ShadeTech performance and decorative
fabrics.
Features & Benefits
• Entirely wireless
• Powered by long-life, fully recyclable D-
Cell batteries that last up 3 years
• Concealed, easy access battery change
• Near-silent operation (38dB)
• 20-year guarantee
• World-first manual override technology
• Qbasic Plus gives you the opportunity to
upgrade a manual system to motorised
• Sustainable – in other battery-powered
blinds, motor performance deteriorates over
time and cannot be recycled
• Safe by Design – completely cordless
Ian Claxton, managing director of
QMotion UK says, “There is a huge
opportunity to bring the convenience,
comfort and aesthetic benefits of automated
blinds to workplace, education and
healthcare applications. Our patented
technology combined with Waverley’s
expertise and experience in these markets is
a winning combination. We’re looking
forward to bringing the advantages of
ShadeTech powered by QMotion to endusers
and occupants.”
With today’s push for sustainable,
convenient shading solutions, ShadeTech RBL-
QM is a serious contender across all sectors.
In the next issue:
Digital technology
MAJOR SYSTEM
Dutch Blind
Extrusions and
Components
EXTRUSION.
ANODISED, WHITE AND
BLACK + INSERT
PULLEY BLOCK
DUTCH COVERBOARD
6 metre x 200mm
4 LEG HINGE CORNER INTERNAL MITRE INTERMEDIATE
BRACKET
TUNING FORK
COVERBOARD
J’ BRACKET
METRO SYSTEM (DA1)
CENTRE LEG
BRACKET
BACK HINGE PIECE
CLEAT STRAP HINGE ALUMINIUM PULLEY PLASTIC PULLEY ‘J’ HOOK
END CHEEK
FIXING ANGLE
1” x 1” x 6 metre
ANGLE
1” x 1/8” x 6 metre
BRACING BAR
DOG LEG BRACKET
Made from Glass Filled UV Stabilised
Nylon for strength and durability.
All components moulded to match the
colour of the Extrusions.
Anodised, White, Black (Major system)
and Anthracite (Metro System)
EXTRUSION. ANODISED,
WHITE AND ANTHRACITE
+ INSERT
INTERMEDIATE
BRACKET
4 LEG HINGE CORNER type 1 CORNER type 2 CORNER type 3 UNIVERSAL BRACE HIDEALL TAPE
CENTRE LEG
BRACKET
EXTRUSION CAP FIXED WALL PLATE DISPLAY STAND T
CONNECTOR
Unit 2a, Miglo Ind Est, Paignton,
Devon, TQ4 7QW
Tel: 01803 522887
E: tony@supa-shade.co.uk
W: www.awningsdevon.co.uk

SAS DICKSON CONSTANT - capital 12.640.000 euros - 381 347 970 R.C.S. Lille Métropole - Photos : Landry Laurie - Glen Raven TM is a trademark of Glen Raven, Inc. - Dickson Constant is a Glen Raven company
SOLAR
FABRiCS
COLLECTION
Awning fabrics
More contemporary
New range of stripes
A pallet of harmoniously
toned colours
Material effects through
transparency
More natural aspects
Changing plains
the art of weaving by Dickson ®
LUXAFLEX - 0161 442 9500

Helpline
To advertise here contact Julie at j.saridakis@turretgroup.com
AWNING FABRICS
BLINDS FABRICS
FLY/INSECT SCREENS
PERFECT FIT BLINDS
Roller / Verticals / Pleated blinds / Honeycomb
For more information contact:
info@lienesch.co.uk
lienesch.com
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
www.dickson-constant.com
CONCEALED BLINDS & TRACKS
PLEATED BLIND SYSTEM
& FABRICS
Contact Luxaflex
Distributor for Dickson awning fabrics
0161 442 9500
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
Pleated Blinds
Everything you need to
manufacture Pleated
blinds using Louvolite
fabrics & components
AWNING & CANOPIES
Stainless steel powered
awnings and shade systems
supplied to the best of the
marine industry...
01686 629010
sales@makefast.com
www.makefast.com
BLACKOUT BLINDS
...now available onshore
C
CONSERVATORY ROOF BLINDS
When you want a
roof specialist,
speak to Stuart
at Semper.
We’re here to provide
you with a full survey
& fit service across
the UK for PFI
Conservatory roof
blinds in both pleated
and cellular fabrics,
manual or motorised.
INTEGRAL BLINDS
07766 600131 ea blinds_3x1_BLSCLASS.pdf 29/10/12 15:41:21
SEMPER BLINDS
MOTORS & CONTROL SYSTEMS
semperblinds@gmail.com www.semperblinds.com
YOUR No1 CHOICE FOR
INTEGRAL BLINDS
morleyglass.co.uk
0113 277 8722
Customer Services
0161 882 5050
orders@louvolite.com
To advertise in Blinds & Shutters
please contact JULIE SARIDAKIS
via e-mail at:
j.saridakis@turretgroup.com
PLEATED BLINDS
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Conservatory and
Window Blinds Specialists
Motorisation options available
01603 404040
enquiries@eablinds.co.uk
www.eablinds.co.uk
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
Award winning blinds
0800 107 5535
blocblinds.com
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
To advertise in this space
please contact
JULIE SARIDAKIS
j.saridakis@turretgroup.com
PERFECT FIT BLINDS
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
BLINDS AUTOMATION
Window Blind Motorisation
Battery and hardwired solutions
Home Hubs • Solar Panels
Remotes and wall switches
Control your home from any device,
anytime, anywhere
THE HOME OF AUTOMATION
For more information call a member of
our team on 0161 945 4561
www.ellard.co.uk
CURTAIN TRACKS MOTORISED
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
Perfect Fit Blinds
Everything you need to
manufacture Perfect Fit
blinds using Louvolite
fabrics & components
Customer Services
0161 882 5050
orders@louvolite.com
PLEATED BLINDS MOTORISED

PLEATED BLINDS MOTORISED
SHUTTERS
WEB DESIGN
ROLLER BLIND FABRICS,
COMPONENTS & SYSTEMS
Roller Blinds
Everything you need to
manufacture Roller
blinds using Louvolite
fabrics & components
Customer Services
0161 882 5050
orders@louvolite.com
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
VENETIAN BLINDS TO THE TRADE
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
VERTICAL BLIND FABRICS
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
Vertical Blinds
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
ROLLER E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
BLINDS
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
Everything you need to
manufacture Vertical
blinds using Louvolite
fabrics & components
Customer Services
0161 882 5050
orders@louvolite.com
ROMAN BLINDS
WOOD BLINDS CUSTOM PAINTED
202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
SHAPED BLINDS & TRACKS
202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
WOODEN BLINDS
Excellent Quality, Unbeatable
Service & Competitive Prices
• Wooden
• Aluminium
• Vertical
•
• Roller
• Faux Wood
• Pleated
• Roman
E: vicky@tropicalblindsltd.co.uk
T: 020 8269 6400 F: 020 8269 6401/2
We set the standard for Customer Support
View our magazine online
at
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk
2202-Tropical Blinds advert 42mm.indd 1 16/02/2018 10:21
www.blindsmagazine.co.uk
To advertise in this space please contact
JULIE SARIDAKIS
j.saridakis@turretgroup.com

Classified’s
SHUTTERS, BLINDS AND CURTAINS INSTALLERS REQUIRED
LOCAL ADVISORS & SALES DESIGNERS REQUIRED
SHUTTERS, BLINDS AND
CURTAINS INSTALLERS
Join our experienced installation team
At Thomas Sanderson we pride ourselves on
precision and detail. If you have an eye for detail,
practical DIY knowledge and exceptional customer
service skills our hands-on installer opportunities
could be the next step in your career.
• Part-time & full-time opportunities available
• Comprehensive training provided
• High earning potential
Visit careers.thomas-sanderson.co.uk
or call 0115 852 2896
BLINDS CURTAINS SHUTTERS
JOIN OUR TEAM OF DEDICATED LOCAL ADVISORS
Work for yourself, at your own pace and with the hours
that suit your lifestyle as one of our dedicated
self-employed advisors. Help the nation choose the
perfect blinds, curtains and shutters for their homes.
Great earning
potential
I M M E D I AT E STA RT AVA I L A B L E
Flexible
working
Award winning
training
HILLARYS.CO.UK/CAREERS
SPECIALIST INSTALLERS REQUIRED
SALES DESIGNERS REQUIRED
BLINDS CURTAINS SHUTTERS
JOIN OUR AWARD WINNING
NETWORK OF SPECIALIST
INSTALLERS
I M M E D I AT E STA RT AVA I L A B L E
As the UK’s number one provider of window
furnishing solutions we’re always looking for
practical thinking, confident new people to
join our dedicated network of self-employed
specialist installers. Join today and grow your
own local business.
A CAREER BESPOKE TO YOU
Join our dedicated network of sales designers
Thomas Sanderson is always seeking talented new sales professionals to join
our experienced team of sales designers. Our national field opportunities
are suited to those with exceptional customer service skills, a passion for
interior design and a great eye for detail.
• Part-time & full-time opportunities available • High earning potential
• Comprehensive training provided
Visit careers.thomas-sanderson.co.uk or call 0115 852 2896
HILLARYS.CO.UK/CAREERS
Great earning
potential
Flexible
working
Award winning
training
In the April 2022 edition,
features include:
n Security shutters & insect screens
n Vertical blinds
n Digital technology & social media
n Awnings & terrace coverings
n Conservatory, rooflight & shaped blinds
n Fabric technology
n Wood & pinoleum blinds
n Sustainability
To submit your editorial article,
please contact:
John Hatcher, Editor
E: j.hatcher@turretgroup.com
Advertising Opportunities:
n Display Advertising
n Classified Advertising
n Company Profiles
n Outserts (banding; cover-mounts)
n Blinds & Shutters Year planner
n Blinds & Shutters Web Guide
n Inserts (either loose inserts or bound-in)
For all advertising enquiries,
please contact:
Julie Saridakis, Sales Manager
E: j.saridakis@turretgroup.com
View Blinds & Shutters online at www.blindsmagazine.co.uk

IMPRESSIONS
FAUXWOOD VENETIAN
COLLECTION
Tropical Blinds are a UK manufacturer offering the trade an independent choice of
custom blind collections designed for you and your customers.
Our Impressions Collection combines practicality with a range of modern faux wood slats
featuring smooth, embossed and grained finishes.
You can see all our product ranges and first class customer support systems at
tropicalblinds.com

NEW ROLLER AND VERTICAL
COLLECTION
2022
www.eclipseblinds.co.uk