connections april-may 2013 - sample
DESCRIPTION
The Official Magazine of the Specialised Textiles AssociationTRANSCRIPT
STA Connections Cover 2013.indd 1 16/04/13 8:24 AM
SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSOCIATION INC. Vol 13 No 2April • May 2013
Untitled-2 1 1/03/2012 2:31:14 PM
CONNECTIONS magazine is published on behalf of the Specialised Textiles Association Inc. by CommStrat Limited.
Publisher CommStrat
editor & Writer Nicola [email protected]
design & Production Annette [email protected]
national sales Manager Yuri MamistvalovPhone: 03 8534 [email protected]
contributor Jamie Swedberg
coMMstrat ABN 31 008 434 802
Level 8, 574 St Kilda RdMelbourne Vic 3004www.commstrat.com.au
sPecialised textiles associationSuite 201, 22 St Kilda Road,St Kilda Vic 3182Phone: 03 9521 2114Local call: 1300 555 787Fax: 03 9521 2116www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
Disclaimer: Except where specifically stated, the opinions and material published in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or the STA Council.
contents
A S S O C I A T I O N
association Matters2 Report by STA President 4 STA office update Presenting a local and global overview 15 Young Leaders’ Challenge A sneak-peek progress report 30 STA welcomes new members31 COM reports32 STA Membership Directory
superexpo16 The program18 A list of all SuperExpo Exhibitors19 SuperExpo floor plan20 SuperExpo Guest Speakers
neWs corner24 Member news Avenue of Honour – industry
collaboration at its best All Seasons expansion Ricky Richards’ annual pledge43 Social media spreads the message
sPecial Features10 Window coverings What’s in demand - trends and
developments21 Window coverings: SuperExpo
launch preview What to watch out for 38 Choice Shade Solutions A look at the US market
sPotlight on MeMbers28 Greg Barnett steers developments
at D&R Tarpaulins 41 Members’ products and services Shann
training and eVents44 Industry events and RTOs
subscriPtions to subscribe to Connections for just $75 inc gst annually contact ruth spiegel [email protected]
2110
2824
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32
In the next issue of Connections...Tents and marquees ● Sail makers and tension structuresIf you would like to be involved in any of these features by providing commentary or insights please contact the editor [email protected]
Cover images provided by Goodearl & Bailey
2 · CONNECTIONS
From the office of the President
STAMATTERS
The STA office and COM have been very busy bringing
together many initiatives. To name a few, applications
are now available on line for accreditation. This is a huge
step forward for STA and our members… we can aspire
for the STA to become a household name."
This is my last President’s report in
Connections magazine and my last
opportunity to communicate with you all prior
to the SuperExpo 2013. In my first President’s
report I spoke of the SuperExpo, which at that
stage was only in its infancy, not much more
than a concept. A lot has changed since then.
The STA and the BMAA have collaborated to
bring together the biggest event of its kind for
either of our industries. Many meetings and
lots of work by the expo organising committee
and Brett Greene from GreenFox Advertising
have brought the SuperExpo 2013 to life.
It is the biggest expo of its kind in Australia
with over 100 individual exhibitor companies
taking about 300 standard booth spaces. All
four of the exhibition halls at the Gold Coast
Exhibition Centre have been taken up by the
combined exhibition. The SuperExpo will run
over three days of trade show and technical
sessions with the social function component
commencing on Tuesday night with the
Welcome Reception. There is a Golf Day on
the Wednesday, our STA Awards dinner, also
on the Wednesday, a departure from normal.
The social calendar culminates with the Gala
Night on Friday night. This year we have let go
of the theme night.
industry advancesAs has been communicated during the year
the STA office and COM have been very
busy bringing together many of the initiatives
spoken about during the AGM at last year’s
Melbourne Expo. To name a few, applications
are now available on line for accreditation.
This is a huge step forward for STA and our
members. This initiative will grow over the
coming years and hopefully increase both
membership but also our voice and relevance
in the industry. We can aspire for the STA
to become a household name as is already
the case for the Master Builders Association
(MBA) or the Housing Industry Association
(HIA) for example.
We held our second Young Leaders
Conference in Melbourne in October
2012 and the Young Leaders are currently
preparing their respective challenges (to
be revealed at the SuperExpo). The first of
the trainees has commenced with the NWDF
funded training initiative, Cert II Blinds &
Awnings (Shade Sails).
The first group of trainees went to their
information sessions at TAFE NSW in Ultimo,
in February this year. Further groups will
follow during the year. While this course is
predominately aimed at the NSW requirement
for licensing in that state, trainees from
elsewhere have enrolled as well. A few places
may still be available, so contact the office for
more information.
A number of focus groups have been set
up and are now operating alongside the
very successful and well established Fabric
Structures Committee. We now have focus
groups specialising in training, a short-
lived group that focused on the Awards for
Excellence and also a focus group dedicated
to bringing the original Young Leaders
Challenge to commercial reality.
There is plenty of scope for members to
become involved in our association, to have
a say and to make a difference. In addition to
the above we have held two lots of member
sessions in most of the states and while not
attended by large numbers were successful
and rewarding sessions. It is great to meet and
talk with interstate members and also to hear
their views, which interestingly often differ
state to state.
a few words of thanksAs my time on COM and more recently
as President draws to a close, I would like
to thank all members of our hard working
Committee of Management and of course
our office staff, Ana and Mina, without whose
assistance and support would have made my
term as President untenable. This year we lose
three COM members whose three-year terms
have finished. I would especially like to thank
Kent Williamson from RMIT (our treasurer)
and Gary Smith from Campbell and Heeps for
their dedication and hard work over the past
three years. While talking of the COM, I urge
anyone who is interested in having a say and
getting more involved with our association to
nominate for the COM. It is a most rewarding
enterprise for only a few hours work each
month. It is easy to criticise from off field, get
onside and help kick some goals!
roll up to superexpo!Last but not least I urge you all to come to the
2013 SuperExpo. Many companies have put
their money and faith in the industry to be
part of this historic sell-out event. It now needs
all of you to attend to make the SuperExpo the
huge success that it needs to be. Come along,
catch up with old friends and acquaintances,
visit the exhibitor booths and see the latest
materials, equipment and technology
available to our industry. Get involved, go to a
technical session and come along to one or all
of our social functions.
See you at SuperExpo 2103.
lance st hill
Australia’s Best Selection of Industrial and Commercial TextilesCombining 30 years of experience with Australia’s best selection of industrial and commercial textiles, Ricky Richards is the most trusted source for a variety of products.
For fabrics for tarpaulins, caravan and camping, tents and marquees and agriculture and horticulture, to sports equipment and window furnishing, we have the expertise and inventory to get you what you need, when you need it.
Take comfort in our experience and talk with our friendly team.
Explore the Ricky way, today!
Ricky Richards (Sales) Pty Ltd 16 Park Road Homebush NSW 2140 Phone: 02 9735 3333 Fax: 02 9735 3311 www.rickyrichards.com.au
PVC
Canvas
Nylon
Polyethylene
Mesh
Visit us at
super expo 2013
stand #201
Gold Coast exhibitio
n Centre
June 5th – 7th, 2013
ArchitecturAl Structure FAbricS
Wide Format Print media
WindoW Furnishing Fabrics
IndustrIaltEXtIlEs
High Performance Fabricsfor any project
4 · CONNECTIONS
Our new name, Specialised Textiles Association, which has now been
in place for 12 months is gaining recognition within the industry and
endorsement from our members.
The start of our new membership year being April 1 is also the
beginning of our busy season. With so many member benefits
available, it is often easy to forget about the most simple and beneficial
ones. Members, be sure to take advantage of your listing on our
association website by logging onto the member area regularly to
update your details and profile, and select the products you supply
or manufacture in order to appear on the search option. While in the
member area explore the ‘member only’ area menu and discover
information such as Ai Group’s Industrial Award information. Another
STAMATTERS
membership benefit is the use of our logo - be sure to differentiate
yourself from non-members by making use of the Specialised Textiles
Association logo on your stationery and other collateral.
So much is taking place not only now with SuperExpo a few weeks
away but also during the rest of the year. Below is snapshot of what
members can expect over the coming months
the next step for sta Member accreditationMembers who attended one of our recent member sessions around the
country heard all about the Accreditation program.
Our quest for an Accreditation program began in 2010 following
our member survey which indicated a need to establish and enforce
industry standards and provide accreditation and training programs.
At the subsequent Annual General Meeting, members empowered
Council of Management to investigate and recommend an appropriate
accreditation model.
Following extensive research and member feedback, we are ready
to release Stage 1 of our member accreditation program. Information
about Accreditation has been circulated to members with the online
application form available via the Accreditation page on our website.
Be one of the first to apply and set the standard!
nWdF for certificate ii blinds and awnings trainingThe first round of trainees for Certificate II in Blinds and Awnings
installation started at NSW TAFE Ultimo campus in late February. This
was followed by a successful training information session at the campus
in late March, with 23 trainees making up the very first group to register
for the Certificate II training course.
the sta diaryoffice manager ana drougas presents an update on association activities
RADINS VICTORIA7 Conifer Cr, Dingley Village, 3172 VIC
Phone: 03 9551 6000 - Fax: 03 9551 6999Email: [email protected]
www.radins.com.au
We offer rolls and cut lengths plus a range of hardware and accesories for every installation.
RADINS QUEENSLAND125 Delta St, Geebung, 4034 QLDPhone: 07 3865 1666 - Fax: 07 3216 2391 Email: [email protected]
Radins is a leading importer, distributor & wholesaler of industrial fabrics & hardware for:
Window FurnishingsShade Sails
General Canvas & PVCMarine & Motor Trimming
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, QLDWednesday 5th June - Friday 7th June 2013 Stand: 217
Connections _RadinsAdvertApril13.pdf 1 4/19/2013 8:55:53 AM
6 · CONNECTIONS
STAMATTERS
Trainees now have 12 months to complete their
courses. As step 1, all trainees have been asked to
complete an ‘RPL’ (Recognition of Prior Learning)
document which allows the trainers and assessors to
identify skills students are already competent in. All
students receive support and mentoring from NSW
TAFE and STA.
Although this training was initially set up to cater
for the criteria required to satisfy NSW Office of Fair
Trade for installers (in NSW) to obtain their license,
the training course is available for all in the industry
no matter which city or state they are located in.
Certificate II Blinds and Awnings is a nationally
recognised qualification.
The second group of trainees will start their
training in late May. If you would like to participate
and have not yet expressed interest in doing so,
please contact our office.
2013 awards for excellenceEntries into this year’s Awards have now closed and
are in the process of being judged. The Specialised
Textiles Association Awards for Excellence offers
members the opportunity to showcase their
technical skills, design excellence and innovation to
other members and the industry at large. All entries
will be displayed at the SuperExpo with the winners
announced at the Awards for Excellence dinner on
Wednesday June 5, featured on our website and
in Connections magazine. Thank you to all who
entered and good luck!
Young leaders ProgramLast year’s Young Leaders Conference saw two teams
evolve and take the challenge to design, fabricate,
engineer, market, secure sponsorship and install a
complete top to tail project which ultimately had to
give something back to the community in some way.
Shade-A-Cause and Green Textiles (our two Young
Leaders’ teams) will be presenting their projects at
SuperExpo 2013. So far, both projects have been
kept under wraps. All will be revealed on Wednesday
June 5 when both projects will be judged and the
winning team (and project) will be announced at the
Awards for Excellence dinner that evening.
Good luck to both teams and congratulations
on your involvement in what is an extremely
challenging task.
Our 2013 Young Leaders Conference is due to take
place in October, so please consider those you know
in our industry who are 35 years or younger and who
could participate. Registrations can be made on our
website www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
superexpo events and registrationsThe Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
will play host to the largest trade exhibition ever
staged in Australia for the window furnishings and
specialised textiles industries. Registrations for this
year’s SuperExpo can now be made online via the
SuperExpo website www.superexpo2013.com.au
which also lists all information about the SuperExpo.
With the trade expo booth space being a complete
sell out, you can be sure that the events will also
be just as popular. SuperExpo is a collaborative
event between STA and BMAA. All events
during SuperExpo are open to members of both
associations. Read the full program and all details on
pages 16-20 in this issue of Connections.
Running over three days, this year’s Expo provides
many opportunities to network and learn. Regular
events known to members of both STA and BMAA
are currently being fine-tuned. With 15 business
sessions taking place over three days, there are
bound to be many topics of interest.
Take advantage of the subsidised registration fees
for all events and register online now. All events have
limited capacity, so please book your attendance
early in order to avoid disappointment.
council of Management nominationsHave your say ... about the direction of our industry
and association through involvement on the Council
of Management. We are calling for nominations to
Council of Management, and these will be voted on
at this year’s AGM.
Our association has flourished with the
involvement and passion shown by members
volunteering for Council of Management positions
every year. Positions on Council are for a total
period of three years. Every year we call for
nominations with two vacant council positions to fill.
This year is an exception as we have three
positions to fill. If you have thought about having
a say in your industry, this is your opportunity.
Nominations can be made online via the member
area on the website or by sending an email to
The AGM is due to take place at 8.00am at the
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on
Wednesday June 5 2013. Members can register
attendance, send an apology or nominate for
Council of Management via the member area of the
STA website.
I look forward to catching up with you all
at SuperExpo 2013 on the Gold Coast from
Wednesday June 5 to Friday June 7.
STA COuNCIL OF MANAGEMENT
SPECIALISED TEXTILES ASSoCIATIon InC.Suite 201, 22 St Kilda RdSt Kilda, Vic 3182 Ph: (03) 9521 2114Local Call: 1300 555 787Facsimile: (03) 9521 2116Email: [email protected]
Web: www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
ASSoCIATIon MAnAGERana drougas Email: [email protected]
PRESIDEnT lance st hill Fabric Solutions Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 6283 Yatala DC Qld 4207 Mobile: 0400 103 534 Ph: (07) 3807 0200 Fax: (07) 3807 8217 Email: [email protected]
CoUnCILLoRSKent WilliamsonRoyal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)25 Dawson Street Brunswick, Vic 3056Ph: (03) 9925 9182 Fax: (03) 9925 9129Email: [email protected] www.rmit.edu.au
gary smithCampbell & Heeps5/125 Highbury Rd, Burwood, Vic 3125 Mobile: 0419 311 899Ph: (03) 98086911Fax: (03) 9808 3148 Email: [email protected]
tom gastin Pattons—Textile Fabrication80 McDougall St, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061 Mobile: 0414 952 007 Ph: (02) 9955 2563 or 1300 799 980 Fax: (02) 9959 3158 Email: [email protected]
david burtonRicky Richards16 Park Road, Homebush NSW 2140Ph: 02 9735 3333Fax: 02 9735 3311Email: [email protected]
Jamie howardTotal Shade Solutions4 Aldinga St, Brendale QldPh: 07 3889 7200 Fax: 07 3889 8865Email: [email protected]
ConneCtions MAGAzInEAdvertising submissions: [email protected]: 03 8534 5008
Editorial: Nicola [email protected]
Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre
5-7 June 2013 Visit Australia’s largest trade exhibition and conference for the window furnishings & specialised textiles industries.
Showcasing the latest trends and innovative designs, products and services on display by industry leaders.
Networking events and business sessions will also be taking place during SuperExpo2013.
Check out the full program online atwww.superexpo2013.com.au
Inspira t ion in design & tex t i les!EXPOSUPER 2013 A S S O C I A T I O N
BLIND MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA
INVITATION
Platinum Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Presented by
Specialised Textiles AssociationSuite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182
Phone 03 9521 2114 n Fax 03 9521 2116 www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
Learn, share and network with others in the industry who have a similar passion for our industry at national and state based events held throughout the year.
Have your say about the direction of our industry and association through involvement on Council of Management, industry focus groups and special interest groups.
Connect with buyers and suppliers by exhibiting, presenting or attending one of the premier exhibition and conference events in this region.
Be acknowledged for your great work by entering your projects into the Awards for Excellence, an annual competition, designed to recognise excellence and innovation in our industry.
Take advantage of event discounts by enjoying reduced fees on a variety of events such as the annual trade exhibition and advertising in Connections Magazine. Your membership also gives you access to IFAI bookstore at discounted rates.
Educate and inform others using Connections Magazine to communicate to a niche market hungry for knowledge and news about our industry. Members can use Connections to advertise their products and services to their target markets.
Get listed in our comprehensive member and product directory - published in hard copy and searchable online.
Differentiate yourself from non members by making use of the Specialised Textiles Association logo on your stationery and other collateral.
Access expert information and advice by accessing the specialist knowledge and expertise of our member fabricators, installers and suppliers. Specialised Textiles Association is also a member of Australian Industry Group with access to comprehensive range of information and member advices on employee and industrial relations, occupation health and safety issues and much more.
The advantages of becoming a member
Manufacturers, installers and suppliers. Together we cover the world.
A S S O C I A T I O N
Specialised Textiles Association Inc.
Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182Phone 03 9521 2114 n Local Call 1300 555 787
Fax 03 9521 2116 n [email protected] 83 594 171 330 n Registration Number A0010895W
www.specialisedtextiles.com.au
MAM8919
STA Promo Advert (August12).indd 1 15/08/12 11:06 AM
Specialised Textiles Association Inc. Suite 201, 22 St Kilda Road, St Kilda Vic 3182
Phone 03 9521 2114 n Local Call 1300 555 787 Fax 03 9521 2116 n [email protected]
ABN 83 594 171 330 n Registration Number A0010895Wwww.specialisedtextiles.com.au
Company / Business Name
ABN or ACN # Please supply proof of business registration with this application
Does your business trade under any other name? n Yes n No If yes, what is the other trading name
Address
State Postcode
Telephone ( ) Fax ( ) Mobile
E-mail Web
Name of Business Owner Position held in business
Name of second business contact/representative Position held in business
Has this business or any other business owned by you (either now or previously) ever been reported to the ACCC? n Yes n No (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) If yes, please provide details to accompany this application
What area of the industry are you involved in? n Blinds and Awnings n Marine n Motor Trimmer n Shade Sails installer n Supplier to the industry (specify)
n Flags and /Banners n Sailmaker n GeoSynthetics n Shade Sail Fabricator n Other
What Products do you manufacture, design or supply?
Full Membership Categoryn FABRICATOR Construction/Manufacture from prepared components n ASSOCIATE Individuals interested in STA objectives
n SuPPLIER Material/Component/Equipment /Services n AFFILIATE Organisations affiliated with STA
Do you belong to any other Industry Association? n Yes n No If Yes, please list
All membership applications are required to be proposed and seconded by 2 existing Specialised Textiles Association Members –
If you do not know of any Members, please contact our Office for further assistance
Proposed by Company Name Telephone
Seconded by Company Name Telephone
I, (name of business owner) agree to abide by the Statement of Purposes and Rules of
the Association and its Code of Ethics. I understand that should at any time any of the information supplied by me is found to be false/
incorrect, my membership will be immediately withdrawn from the Association.
Signature (of business owner) Date
Payment Details Amount $
n EFT - Payments to NAB - BSB # 083 155 - Account # 1991 93312
n Cheque n Mastercard n Visa
Credit Card Number / / /
Expiry Date /
Name as it appears on card
Signature
Date
Annual Membership Fees Tiered fee structure based on average number of employees (Prices are inclusive of GST)
n 1 to 5 Employees $510
n 6 to 15 Employees $855
n 16 or more employees $1155
n Associate $160
n Affiliate $190
(pro-rata Rate applies July through to March plus $100 processing fee. This will be calculated by STA office)
Current from 1st April 2013 to 31st March 2014Membership Application Form
MA
M89
70
10 · CONNECTIONS
adorning windows and walls
SPECIAL FEATURE
WINDOWCOVERINGS
With increased innovation and offering in design, fabrics and colours, indoor and outdoor window coverings have evolved from a practical product to a fashion statement. Here we take a look the current market as well as developing trends. By Nicola Card.
March 1 officially heralds autumn and with
that, cool weather and the shedding of leaves,
but the only thing falling in Melbourne was
records, with the city recording unseasonably
high temperatures.
As the mercury soared so did power bills, with
air conditioners and fans put to the test around
the clock, but as Scott Gilbertson of Nolan.UDA
said, “With the cost of electricity going through
the roof, consumers are much more focused on
improving air-conditioning efficiency. Indoor
and outdoor blinds can dramatically improve
temperature control, reducing power bills.”
Few would disagree, scientists included.
According to laboratory tests, air under an
awning canopy awnings over north and west
facing windows, can be 20 degrees cooler.
Last year IFAI affiliate Professional Awning
Manufacturers Association (PAMA) released
an Energy Study which found that during a hot
year, fabric awnings and exterior shades can
reduce annual cooling energy by more than 25%,
compared to homes with completely unshaded
windows. This can translate to around $200 in
energy savings, All up a more eco-friendly way
to stay cool, someone commented. But is the
message being effectively conveyed to the public?
Sales and Marketing Manager with Uniline, Iian
Boyes, think not. “In Australia the industry fails to
publicise and promote the merits of awnings in
reducing indoor temperatures and power bills.
I’ve seen very little technical information for
consumers that explains how exterior screening
can reduce bill costs,” he said.
Goodearl & Bailey's Sunbrella Lagoon
“We are in the environmental revolution as
well so any argument about saving energy
has to be good … we are just not promoting
awnings enough so consumers are not realising
the benefits.”
During the hot spell of 2012/2013 Goodearl
and Bailey took positive action by capitalising
on social media to promote the benefits of
awnings in reducing sunlight and indoor heat.
“We used Facebook and Twitter to explain that
awnings effectively shade the sun from windows
and therefore lessen the build up of heat in the
house hence reduce power bills,” Managing
Director Clare Corban explained. “As an
industry there is so much we can potentially do
to educate the end consumer. They spend $700
to $1000 upfront installing air conditioning but
do not factor in the extra costs of running it “You
have to get on board with social media, it is
also about helping and educating people about
products. Depending on the circumstances, it
is well worth spending an hour or so a day on
Twitter and Facebook.
“Consumers need to consider the long-term
scenario of energy costs and options to be
more green. It may be costly to install awnings -
or solar panels - but you have to look at the long
term picture to stay in front.”
She commented on the much “tougher”
weather of the past three years saying
“Heatwaves in the south and torrential rain in
the north … nowadays there is no such as a
typical summer. October to December used to
be our busiest period but that has completely
changed … it is carrying over to February,
March and April.”
Clare went on to say that with warm weather
in mind, Dickson Constant developed the
Sunworker mesh which repels up to 94% of
the sun’s heat, preventing buildings and homes
from overheating in summer “and avoiding any
greenhouse effect. And in winter Sunworker
reverses the process by maintaining the heat
within the building or house,”
“In relation to energy savings one great thing
about the Sunworker range of existing fabrics is
that they are fully in line with the drive towards
sustainable development and energy savings.”
Dickson Constant developed the technology
at its substantial R&D facility in Lille, France,
headed by Peter Winters who will be at the
Goodearl and Bailey stand at SuperExpo and
will also present the topical Expo address:
From Solar Shading products to essential
Dynamic Solar Control solutions as essential
future building technology’.
Warmer weather, smarter options
Connections also spoke to Jennifer Elmer
who is Marketing Manager with Mermet and
says consumers today are “most definitely”
questioning alternatives to power-guzzling air
conditioners, they are demanding information
and looking at all options such as large size
folding arm awnings, hence the growth in
popularity for external systems that provide
greater solar protection.
“With this incredible Indian summer that won’t
give up we have seen more quotes than usual
for external solar protection, there has been a
real spike,” she said.
Swedish manufactured Solmatiz is the
company’s range of external products.
Launched in 2012, the Solmatiz salt water
resistant factor is said to be unique. With its
2x2 basket weave Solmatiz5 reflects almost
70% of the sun’s heat and reduces internal
temperatures by 5-15%. The waterproof version
is Solmatiz1 blackout which provides 99% sun
protection and the coating is salt water resistant
the fabrics are also mildew resistant and fire
retardant, fending off glare, heat, and UV rays.
uniline's Proteger Channel Lock
Mermet's Solmatiz2
Ricky Richards Docril
12 · CONNECTIONS
In related developments, Jennifer revealed
Honeycomb shades were increasing in
popularity as the cellular shape traps the air
and helps reduce heat gain during summer
while also providing insulation in winter.
“Manufactured from woven or non woven
polyester, it does not fray or fade and comes in
different operating systems: endless cord with a
light gear clutch for smooth operation, and there
are cordless varieties.
“They look good and are an energy efficient
option. The most popular Mermet line is the M
screen but there’s also more demand for textural
fabrics that appear different to sun screens, like
Lintex which is a polyester fabric with a linen
look, and Willandra which has a softness and
raised textural feel. Beautifully woven, a popular
alternative to screen fabrics. More the look
and feel of a curtain rather than a blind. This is
catering to the high end of the market.”
In her experience Australia’s market follows
the US as “The European climate is different
and we have bigger windows here which has
an impact for example wide – three meter
– width fabric continues to be very popular,
unlike Europe.”
The Ricky Richards team concurs. “These
days manufacturers say the wider the better,
anything that requires fewer joins, and sales
people like it as there is less wastage. Ten years
ago widest widths were about 1.83m or six
feet then they stretched to 2.2 metres and 2.75,
now the widest is 3.2 metres being turned on
their sides produce a seamless seven to eight
metre blind,” said Window Furnishings Sales
Manager Leisa Manning.
Wider is better
Having notched up 13 years with Ricky
Richards, Lisa has witnessed evolving trends
and said the popularity of patio/outdoor rooms
and larger windows has triggered the larger
dimensions, but the demand for larger rolls
produces a chain reaction in manufacturing:
cutting tables which were once 2.5 metres
wide now range up to 4 metres and heavier
rolls create OH&S issues. Weaving looms have
also by necessity become wider.
“It has snowballed, but people eventually
adapt to market demands such as seamless
blinds,” Leisa said.
Clare Corban echoed the strong appeal
of outdoor living areas and said mesh was
particularly popular as it does not obscure
views. To that end Goodearl and Bailey
sources Vistaweave Plus which is described as
“revolutionary perfect” with its even 34/34 2x2
construction and dimensional stability which
enables railroading with greater spans.
US manufactured Vistaweave Plus is available
in a wide 305cm “so you get more blinds with
less hems or less seams … and it’s nicer for
the end user to have a wide, seamless blind,”
she said.
Accompanying the demand for wider fabrics
is the move toward colour matches of paints and
wallpaper, namely “the trend to coordinating
the lot,” said Iian of Uniline. “Consumers want
something functional – a personal look taking
into account colours designs and textures.
“And there are other changes - when I started
in the business about 17 years ago micro
blinds were in demand but now it is more of
a combination of several different treatments
throughout. However there have been no
quantum leaps or defining moments, it’s been a
slow transitional change.
“Plain block-outs will continue to be popular
but there is a trend toward the upper end
of textiles, for example patterned or woven
Jacquard type fabrics which are more
expensive.” He also remarked that Uniline tends
to look towards Europe for developments as it
“shows more colour and flair whereas the US is
more conservative.”
“One of the obstacles is keeping up with
market trends which can change quite quickly,
and quality must be right. Uniline has good in-
house quality testing … we invest too in our own
R&D as it is an opportunity to grow, to provide
products to suit the market.” He explained the
need to invest in software systems and human
resources: “Getting the right design people
on board and up to speed and right market
information through customer involvement.”
Seeing the lightEver wondered why they are called blinds? Because they limit observation and thus “blind” observers to the view. Exotic names accompany the products: Persian, Roman, Austrian, Venetian and Holland blinds. Also jalousies, brise soleil, pleated blinds, roller shades, louvers. Ancient Egyptians slashed reeds and fashioned them into blinds to ward off the heat of the sun. Ancient Syrian civilizations are also known to have installed awnings, using woven mats to shade market stalls and homes.
uniline's GJ Gardner
APRIL • MAY 2013 · 13
And Australia, he says, is “Very typically beige!
It’s changing towards off whites and creams but
people are also becoming more adventurous as
they are staying longer in their homes and the
installing of awnings is becoming more of a long
term proposition.”
Colours and stripesFive years ago all things beige were top of
the list for Goodearl and Bailey but the trend
over the past three or four years is to charcoal.
“Tweed charcoal is our most popular…
fabrics come in widths up to three metres and
that colour doesn’t show the dirt and is cooler
as it absorbs the heat,” Clare said.
“Our acrylic colours vary – the Dickson Constant
range now includes pinks and block stripes which
are really bright and vibrant and a bit different to
our normal market. We are taking a bit of a gamble
getting into pastels and pinks but pastels are
definitely in, in the furniture side.”
But it’s not all guess work, the company observed
which colours were popular in home furnishings
and implemented those in the fabrics range.
Mermet also finds that brighter colours are
picking up speed. “People are getting a bit
braver! Lintex now boasts some of the brighter
pots and although the palette tends to be
neutral - pale creams and whites - we have
added (peanut) green and orange as a bit of
a departure. But blues and greys will come
through in the next few years, according to
information we gleaned from global trend
presentations by overseas experts at local
trade shows,” Jennifer said.
“Of course the style and colour of blind
fabrics can also have a huge impact on
outlooks - darker colours provide better views
to the outside while lighter colours allow more
natural light into the room and give superior
protection from heat gain.”
Ricky Richards’ Leisa Manning concurs with
Jennifer. “Indoor and outdoor colour trends
differ markedly muted whites and creams are
favoured indoors whereas outdoors is “a bit
more showy with more variety in colour …
and people who wonder why Ricky Richards
carries a large range of striped outdoor
fabrics would be surprised how much still
sells! People still want the traditional looking
fabrics in stripes or acrylic canvas in fact
one of the biggest sellers in the acrylic range
is a stripe! And we are about to introduce
a new range of striped blinds; we have just
revamped that range, but overall plain fabrics
do outsell stripes.
Six years ago Daryl Saunders of Buz Software
purchased striped roller blind awnings for his
hilltop house on the Sunshine Coast with its
sweeping ocean views. The colours selected
matched the house – cream with a blue grey
trim, trouble is “the darker colour allows
me to take in the ocean views whereas the
cream stripe blocks it out as it reflects the
light! Customers do not always understand
the product and it seems some sales people
sometimes don’t know either!”
With hindsight he would have chosen pure
blue or grey blinds.
Back to Leisa who notes regional differences:
“Queensland is light and airy and more
residences have water views so they go
for lighter fabrics. Interstate differences are
amazing … for example if you take a poly-
cotton [sample] book up to Queensland they
say ‘you are kidding me!’ as the more humid
climate creates mould, but in all states south
natural fabrics remain popular. But ironically
canvas is best for blocking out heat.”
Leisa also told Connections that in all states
mesh is “pretty much the number one product”
and to a large extent has replaced clear
PVC which boomed about five years ago. “It
went crazy until people realised that mesh
was easier to work with - PVC shrinks and
expands and does not always meet customer
expectations. The exception is restaurants
where clear PVC remains popular as it enables
potential customers to see inside.”
She added that to a certain extent
manufacturing techniques dictate fabric trends,
also “Mesh is not completely waterproof but
blocks out a lot of wind and water, is easier to
maintain and stays nice.”
Mesh versus clear PVCMaybe however there is a half way point? At
last year’s STA Expo we spotted a rather smart
sophisticated dual blind system on the Nolan.
UDA stand known as Ziptrak, which Scott
Gilbertson explained was developed by Tony
de Maaijer in Adelaide.
“Initially Ziptrak was used in a single track
system with either clear PVC for cold winter
conditions and woven mesh for temperature
control and UV protection in the summer.
Nowadays consumers are looking for the best
of both worlds. The solution is using a dual
track system where both mesh and clear PVC
can be used in tandem,” Scott said.
Ziptrak was the first blind track system
introduced to the Australian market and ten or
more years of R&D have seen the system evolve
into a robust, aesthetically pleasing package.
Ziptrak is used in both commercial and
domestic applications, but unsurprisingly the
significant surge in popularity of outdoor living
at home is boosting demand.
The BuZ on technologyStill on technology, clocking up three decades of service to the textile industry is Daryl Saunders of BuZ Software, who has constantly updated company software to stay on track of sweeping changes.
BuZ specialises in prospecting and quoting and payments; some measurements or specs are sent to Aeronaut for cutting; the software also handles installation schedules, automation and fast mechanisms to manipulate all the information. That is now – very different to the past.
“Thirty years ago there were no PCs! We were originally selling large computers which only the big companies could afford. Back then most of the work was done using pen and paper, there were no barcodes to track product development,” Daryl said.
“The recent introduction of tablets has had a big impact in the take up and acceptance of technology, now even smaller retailers can take a tablet to the customer’s home, measure up and check all details then print out a quote on the spot.
“using our technology many can close a sale on the first appointment, which halves the amount of time reps have to spend on quotes. The ‘old school’ method was to visit the site and get dimensions then return to the office, get out the calculator and work it all out before getting back to the customer.
“Now with Buz Software on the iPad or tablet they can even show videos of how it all works – awnings and motorisation; take photos and superimpose (potential) awnings on the side of the house etc. It really changes the whole sales process, gives reps a handy tool.”
Daryl also commented on the importance of a speedy internet for all and says that when NBN finally does roll out more people will expect to be connected. “People in country areas in particular are struggling with internet connections and getting left behind … customers need to have better access to servers so we have
adopted the cloud solution/decision.”
SPECIAL FEATURE
WINDOWCOVERINGS
14 · CONNECTIONS
The drive toward motorisation
In other developments, few will have failed to notice today’s predominance of
motorised awnings, and first to introduce the technology to Australia was Somfy.
Jade Coote who is the Sydney based Marketing Manager says their European
manufactured motors have many control options and the remotes have been
designed with “flair”, coming in a range of colours to suit décor. “For example
– lounge room (black remote), patio (blue/ white shock proof) for outdoor use,
silver for entertaining, and pure (white) can be matched with any décor.
“The intelligent control and sensor options are designed for comfort
and security while also reducing energy consumption and the home’s
carbon footprint.
“And when the wind reaches a pre-determined strength, the wind sensor
retracts the awning or sunscreen to help protect it from damage. Manual
blind users only slowly become aware of problems caused by changes in
sunlight and wind and often it’s too late to meaningfully react. Automated
systems respond much more quickly, even when the home owner is not
home!” Jade said.
And we are talking hi-tech, with ‘touch’ technology controlling and adjusting
natural light, Somfy’s Telis 16 offers 16 channels, controlling all Somfy home
applications, including interior/ exterior blinds, curtains, awnings and roller
shutter, the large screen details all information and each channel can be
assigned a name and icon and the display can be easily modified.
The Touch Panel can identify up to 30 items, with easy to remember custom
names and the Sonesse “whisper-quiet motorised internal window coverings”
is popular for use on premium applications such as high-end residential and
home theatre.
Jade said “Somfy is very much a seasonal business – when the weather
begins to warm up, Australians start thinking about entertaining and want to
maximise their entertaining area for as much as the year as they can – this is
where sales of our external products rise.
“Then when the weather starts to cool down, we find there is an increase
in internal product sales. For example automated blinds and curtains can
allow for passive solar heating in cooler conditions, reducing the need for
air-conditioning and in turn reducing the carbon footprint and the consumer’s
power bill,” she explained.
More information: www.goodearlandbailey.com.au and
http://www.facebook.com/goodearlNbailey
www.buzsoftware.com.au
www.mermet.com.au
www.nolanUDA.com.au
www.rickyrichards.com.au
www.somfy.com.au
www.uniline.com.au
Goodearl & Bailey's Vista Range