Out of the box

Challenger

Challenger General Manager James Kirkpatrick tells WFA the company offers a comprehensive range of traditional and conventional systems designed to meet the diverse needs of customers. 

“Our products are engineered for reliability, durability, and ease of use, making them the preferred choice for many in the industry. We aim to remind potential customers who may be experiencing difficulties with their current suppliers that Challenger is here to support them with superior solutions and exceptional service.

“At Challenger, our traditional and conventional systems include a variety of components tailored to enhance functionality and performance,” says Kirkpatrick. 

Challenger’s offerings include:

• Hoods: Available in a range of colours to suit any aesthetic requirement. Choose from hood ends with both under-roll and over-roll profiles to meet specific design needs, whether you’re looking for a sleek, modern finish or a more classic look.  

• 5-Sided Bottom Rail: available in 16 colours, with componentry to suit Auto, Fixed, Straight Drop & Wire Guide Awnings.

• Springs: Our high-quality springs ensure consistent performance and longevity. Designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, they provide reliable tension and support.

• Arms: Choose from a variety of arm configurations tailored to your specific requirements. Our arms are engineered for strength and stability, ensuring your system functions optimally under all conditions.

• Guides: Our guides are designed to facilitate smooth operation and enhance overall system efficiency. They are built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Meanwhile, the company’s range of Roll Form In-House Steel Tubes is available in sizes including 50mm, 63.5mm, 78mm and 85mm, all available in custom lengths.

Beyond its primary offerings, Kirkpatrick notes that Challenger provides a complete suite of accessories and replacement parts. “Our extensive inventory means you can find exactly what you need without delays.”

“Challenger understands the importance of timely delivery. With our national freight capabilities, we ensure that our products reach customers quickly and efficiently, regardless of location. Our logistics network is designed to minimise delays and keep customers’ operations running smoothly.”

“If you’re seeking reliable, high-quality traditional and conventional systems, look no further than Challenger,” says Kirkpatrick. “We invite potential customers to reach out and discover how we can support their needs with our extensive product offerings and exceptional service.” 

Australian Awning Group

Daniel Gollan, Sales Director at Australian Awning Group confirms the company has launched eZIP Maxi, an enhanced update to its existing side retention system, capable of widths up to 7.2m wide. 

“With a fully extruded aluminium pelmet, 2.4mm wall thickness with 3.4mm reinforced aluminium ribs, the 175mm square headbox is designed to perform.  Combined with a reinforced, 120mm aluminium top tube and friction free idlers with inbuilt stainless steel bearings, the eZIP Maxi is engineering that offers trust in minimal deflection. 

“eZIP Maxi is designed to cater to the ever growing demand for wider outdoor blinds. The challenge with all side retention blinds, particularly as they go wider, is ensuring they are problem-free without ripples, fabric sagging or the dreaded “smile in the blind”. eZIP and the new eZIP Maxi don’t suffer from the curse of deflection and offer solutions that work.   

The outdoor blind market remains strong and is a key driver of activity in the home improvements market, says Daniel Gollan.

Rollease Acmeda

Zipscreen’s new cassette is delivering truly versatile outdoor shading, according to Rollease Acmeda. 

“As the outdoor living trend continues to thrive, Rollease Acmeda’s Zipscreen program is committed to providing innovative shading solutions. In response to the increasing need for versatile and robust outdoor shading systems, we are excited to introduce the latest addition to our External range: the Box 160 cassette. This new cassette provides a cost-effective solution for Zipscreens up to 7m x 3m, without compromising on design or functionality. 

“One of its key features is its compatibility with both 78mm and 110mm tubes, offering flexibility for a wide range of applications. Notably, the 78mm tube now enables drops of up to 4m in a cassette, a capability previously not achievable when using the Box 120.The tube  interchangeability ensures that customers can select the optimal tube size for their specific needs. 

“The Box 160 also maintains the same deductions as our existing Box 120 when used with the 78mm tube, providing a consistent and reliable fabrication process for our customers. This consistency is particularly valuable for fabricators already familiar with the Zipscreen system, as it allows for a seamless integration of the new cassette without the need for significant adjustments or retraining. 

“Designed to seamlessly complement the Zipscreen cassette range, the Box 160 aligns with the sleek design of the Box 120 and Box 190. With its modern square finish, it ensures a refined, cohesive look across all cassette sizes. 

“The Box 160 cassette is a strategic move to address a specific gap in the market: the need for a cost-effective solution for larger outdoor shades. Previously, customers had to upgrade to the Box 190 for wider applications, but the Box 160 offers a more economical option while maintaining the durability and reliability of the Zipscreen range.  

“As the summer season approaches, we are confident that the Box 160 will become an essential cassette option for fabricators, providing the perfect balance of performance, design, and accessibility for outdoor shading projects.” 

TBS

“At TBS, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, high-quality window furnishings designed to meet the evolving needs of our customers,” says TBS Managing Director Craig Foster.

“With the introduction of the  Zipscreen suite of external products, including the new box 160, folding arm awnings, autos, fixed guides, straight drops and advanced automation features, our goal is to enhance the outdoor living experience, creating comfort and convenience for modern homeowners and businesses alike.

“One of the most exciting innovations in our external range is the addition of our external motor which is designed to complement our extensive range of internal motors. Our Wi-Fi enabled motors, curtain, internal and external tubular motors, can be connected direct to our app, without requiring a hub. This marks a significant leap forward in user convenience, offering direct, app-based control over outdoor shading systems with just a few taps on a smartphone.

“We are proud to introduce the new Zipscreen Box 160 to our range, a breakthrough in external shading technology that allows for covering larger areas without the need to move up to the Zipscreen Extreme system. This innovation provides greater flexibility for clients who require wider spans but prefer the streamlined installation and aesthetic of the standard Zipscreen.

“In addition to the Box 160, our range also includes, folding arm awnings, wire guides, straight drops, autos and fixed guide awnings. These additions cater to a wide variety of outdoor shading needs, offering flexibility in design and use. Whether customers are looking to create a cosy outdoor living space or enhance the shading on a commercial property, our extensive range is built to deliver.”

The TBS external range is loaded with advanced features, designed to enhance user experience:

• Zipscreen Box 160: This new system provides greater flexibility in covering larger spans without requiring a full upgrade to Zipscreen Extreme. It’s the perfect solution for those seeking more coverage while maintaining the sleek Zipscreen design.

• TBS Intelligent Automation: All of our 240v curtain, internal and external tubular motors offer direct Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control their blinds through our easy-to-use app, making automation more accessible and eliminating the need for a hub.

• Durability & Weather Resistance: Our external blinds are built to withstand the harsh Australian climate, providing superior weather protection while maintaining an elegant look.

• Energy Efficiency: External blinds can significantly reduce heat inside a home or business, helping to lower energy costs by reducing the reliance on air conditioning.

• Customisation: From manual to motorised operation and a range of products such as folding arm awnings, auto awnings, and fixed guide awnings, we provide custom solutions to meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. We have also developed relationships with the largest fabric suppliers in the country which allows greater flexibility in design

Foster notes that the external blinds market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the continued desire for outdoor living spaces and the demand for energy-efficient solutions. 

“With more people investing in their homes, particularly outdoor areas, there’s been an increased focus on products that deliver comfort, convenience, and design appeal.

“With outdoor living being so popular, the need for durable, stylish, and functional shading solutions has never been higher. Our product range aligns perfectly with this trend, offering both aesthetic appeal and practicality.

“One of the most significant trends we’ve identified in the external blinds market is the integration of smart technology. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that provide more than just basic functionality. They want automation, and seamless integration with their existing smart home systems.

“Another clear trend is the focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Customers are more conscious of reducing energy costs, and external blinds offer a practical solution for lowering indoor temperatures without relying heavily on air conditioning.

“Lastly, there’s been a strong shift towards customisation and flexibility. Consumers now expect products that can be tailored to their specific needs, whether it’s the size, material, or method of operation. Our range offers custom solutions that cater to both residential and commercial needs.”

“TBS’ new external blinds range, powered by intelligent automation, is designed to meet the needs of modern consumers looking for both style and convenience. By addressing key market gaps such as the introduction of Box 160 and aligning with the latest trends, we are confident that this product range will redefine the outdoor living experience for our customers.”

Somfy

“As we approach the peak season leading into summer, demand for external blinds is increasing,” Kim Henretty, Marketing Manager at Somfy Oceania tells WFA. “Consumers want to create an ideal living environment for the season ahead.”

“The early onset of sunnier days and warmer weather across Australia has triggered interest in Somfy’s external products sooner than the typical timeline.”

Henretty notes that website traffic for these products indicates consumer interest is still strong. “With the anticipation of a longer, warmer summer ahead, we are seeing consumers prepare their homes for the beloved Australian tradition of outdoor entertaining while also ensuring sun protection for their families, pets, and furnishings.”

Motorising external blinds with Somfy motors offers numerous advantages, from enhancing comfort to adding value to the home by extending outdoor living spaces.These products create an ‘outdoor room’ by enclosing alfresco areas and, when installed on windows, prevent heat from entering the home. This can ease the strain on cooling systems, which is especially relevant as energy costs continue to rise.

Nicki Beggs, Product Marketing Executive at Somfy Oceania, adds: “External blinds are increasingly being incorporated into retrofit and new construction projects, across residential and commercial settings. We’re also seeing demand for larger screens, some spanning up to eight metres wide, which correlates with the rise in motorisation rates.”

Beggs also notes the growing trend of connected external screens. “Automated control through apps or preset schedules is becoming more popular, and Somfy’s Maestria 50 RTS is the ideal motor for all types of external screens, including zip systems. Available in varying torque options, starting from 6Nm, its advanced obstacle detection feature makes it suitable for even smaller screens.”

The Maestria 50 RTS motor offers a versatile solution for the expanding external blinds market. It integrates seamlessly with Somfy’s RTS automation controls, including sun and wind sensors, and the latest connected offering, the TaHoma switch.

The TaHoma switch connected solution enables users to effortlessly control their outdoor space with a fit-for-purpose solution that provides year-round comfort. The recently released Izymo Motor Receiver from Somfy uses Zigbee 3.0 technology and easily upgrades existing Somfy WT motors (with mechanical limit switches) to seamlessly connect with the Somfy ecosystem, allowing control through the TaHoma by Somfy app with bi-directional feedback. This simple and affordable upgrade opens up the home to smart control capabilities and is compatible with other Zigbee 3.0 products. Somfy’s focus on comfort enables users to create custom ambiences and control lighting, music, and their Somfy awning with a tap on their smartphone, elevating their outdoor entertaining experience.

Additionally, Somfy’s Ø40mm  ABS wheels, available in both Left-Hand and Right-Hand configurations, are compatible with Sonesse 40 Zigbee, RTS, or RS485 motors. “This system enhances RTS and RS485 Ø40mm motors with obstacle detection, giving consumers peace of mind while protecting fabric zip systems from potential damage,” explains Beggs.

When an obstacle is detected by the Ø40mm ABS wheel on the downward motion, the motor will stop, as it backs off the electronic limit switch and cuts out the motor.

Ricky Richards

Outlook is the perfect choice for external blinds, according to Ricky Richards.

“When it comes to creating comfortable outdoor spaces, external blinds play a vital role in providing shade, UV protection, and reducing heat. And for a fabric that combines performance, durability, and environmental responsibility, Outlook is the standout choice for external blinds. Designed and manufactured by Phifer, Outlook offers a unique blend of advanced technology and eco-friendly benefits, making it ideal for homes, businesses, and public spaces alike.

“One of the primary functions of external blinds is to block harmful UV rays and control heat, and this is where Outlook truly shines. Outlook fabrics provide up to 99% UV protection, ensuring that your outdoor areas stay cool and safe from the sun’s harsh rays. By blocking solar radiation, Outlook significantly reduces heat buildup in outdoor spaces, helping to create more comfortable environments and even reducing energy costs by lowering the need for air conditioning indoors.”

“Whether you’re installing blinds on a residential patio or a commercial building, Outlook’s superior UV protection helps maintain cooler, more comfortable spaces, while also protecting furniture and flooring from fading.

Durability is also a key benefit. “Outdoor environments are tough on fabrics, but Outlook is engineered to withstand the harshest conditions. Its high strength construction and quality ingredients make it highly resistant to fading, mildew, and the effects of weathering. The fabric’s ability to retain its vibrant colours and structural integrity over time ensures that your external blinds will continue to perform beautifully for years.

And of course, Dow Ecolibrium offers outstanding sustainability. “What sets Outlook apart from other external blind fabrics is its commitment to sustainability. Made using Dow Ecolibrium bio-based plasticisers, Outlook reduces the reliance on traditional petroleum-based plasticisers, lowering greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40%. This environmentally responsible solution offers all the benefits of conventional vinyl, including durability and flexibility, while lowering any harmful effects on the environmental impact.

“By choosing Outlook for your external blinds, you’re not only investing in high-performance shading but also contributing to a more sustainable future.

“In terms of aesthetics, Outlook offers a diverse range of styles and colours, allowing users to customise their external blinds to suit any design vision. From modern neutrals to vibrant hues, Outlook provides options that seamlessly integrate with both residential and commercial settings. Whether users are looking to create a sleek, minimalist look or a bold, eye-catching design, Outlook has a colour and texture to match.”

Finally, Outdoor blinds require materials that are easy to maintain and clean, and Outlook fabrics are designed with this in mind. The advanced coatings and durable composition ensure that the fabric can be easily cleaned with just water and mild detergent, keeping maintenance simple and hassle-free.

“Overall, Outlook is the perfect solution for external blinds, combining top-tier performance with eco-friendly innovation. From its superior UV protection to its sustainable manufacturing process using Dow Ecolibrium, Outlook provides long-lasting, reliable performance for any outdoor space. If you’re looking to invest in external blinds that offer both style and functionality, look no further than Outlook.”

Helioscreen

Scott Hall. External Product Manager at Helioscreen confirms that the HMX-ZIP Outdoor Blind series has been recently introduced, triggering what he describes as “an amazing response from the market.”

“Helioscreen’s HMX-ZIP systems incorporate cleverly designed channel inserts that hold the fabric laterally and are spring loaded allowing for movement of the skin, this provides a consistently taught and visually appealing fabric finish.” 

“This blind series has been engineered in Europe and custom built on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. This allows for a fast turn around and locally available detailed product support of what is a high end European product designed for the premium end of the market.

“The locally produced HMX range allows the customer to have a premium European product in the full Australian Dulux Powdercoat range. No need to attempt to match the nearest RAL colour from Europe to your window frame, gutter and / or fascia colour; an exact match is now easily available. 

“The market for outdoor blinds ranges from inexpensive off the shelf screens with manual operation to more durable custom made motorised systems – and everything in between. Helioscreen’s outdoor blinds are positioned at the top end of the market and utilise industry leading materials and technology for the best possible results.

“High performance fibreglass screen fabrics like Helioscreen’s Serge range have become very popular. They offer high dimensional stability and tear resistance yet remain supple and fabric-like with a range of colours to suit the level of visibility and glare reduction required.”

Blinds by Peter Meyer

Simon Meyer, Managing Director of Blinds by Peter Meyer and Weinor Australia says that the newly released Solare Teknica T5550 Motorised Auto Awning is leveraging innovation to meet market demand.

“As Australians continue to expand their living spaces outdoors, Blinds by Peter Meyer introduces a groundbreaking innovation this month to the world of Exterior Blinds, the Solare Teknica T5550 Motorised Auto Awning. This new addition redefines what’s possible in outdoor Blinds, blending the latest in design and technology to deliver an advanced, motorised auto awning that combines seamless functionality, aesthetic appeal, and durability.

“The Solare Teknica T5550 is the first of its kind, a motorised Auto Awning that builds upon the proven success of the Solare Teknica T5500 Pivot Arm Awning. Thanks to the innovative Pivot Glide technology, winner of the Good Design Award, this new awning brings motorised convenience to a design traditionally operated manually. The Pivot Glide mechanism allows the T5550 Motorised Auto Awning to lock, pivot, release, and glide with ease, offering a seamless and intuitive shading solution. 

“Designed for enhanced airflow and stability, the Solare Teknica T5550 projects fabric off the window, allowing windows to remain open while maintaining shade and airflow. One of the standout benefits of this Auto Awning is its capability for long drops with minimal arm projection. With pivot arms as short as 500mm, the T5550 is ideal for installations in narrow side paths or areas with limited space. The standard marine-grade stainless steel side rails ensure the arms slide smoothly up and down without the need to project far from the wall, delivering sleek functionality in compact spaces.

“This makes the T5550 a versatile choice, providing optimal performance and modern design for both larger windows and balconies, as well as installations in areas exposed to high wind and compact spaces.”

In addition to the Solare Teknica T5550 Motorised Auto Awning, Blinds by Peter Meyer also offers a selection of complementary External Blinds solutions for a complete outdoor living experience.

The Weinor VertiTex II is a versatile outdoor Roller Blind system combines flexible cassette options and the patented Opti-Flow system for precise fabric positioning. Available in options for wind-resistant Zip, robust Channel, and lightweight Cable, VertiTex II is ideal for patios, balconies, and windows needing an elegant yet durable shading solution. Offering widths of up to 6000mm in a cassette as small as 75mm, this product is unparallelled on the market. 

Solare Teknica External Blinds offer reliable, stylish options for light control and privacy, with products like the T1000 Straight Drop, T2000 Cable Guide, and T5000 Side Retention system. Designed for durability and adaptability, these external Blinds ensure year-round comfort.

Meeting Market Demand for Functional, Stylish Outdoor Shading

With the introduction of the Solare Teknica T5550, Blinds by Peter Meyer addresses a key market gap for Motorised Auto Awnings that blend advanced technology with classic design. Traditional Auto Awnings required manual operation, limiting ease of use. The Solare Teknica T5550 not only overcomes this limitation but also delivers exceptional airflow, durability, and weather resistance, making it a valuable choice for today’s homeowners who desire both functionality and style in their outdoor areas.

Meyer notes that the outdoor shading market is seeing a shift towards products that integrate seamlessly with smart home systems while providing durability and aesthetic appeal. Trends include:

• Streamlined, Modern Profiles: Minimalist designs with sleek lines and neutral colours continue to be popular, and the Solare Teknica T5550’s refined appearance aligns perfectly with this trend.

• Eco-Friendly Fabric Options: Sustainable fabric collections, like the “Modern Basics Blue” in the Weinor VertiTex II range, highlight an increased consumer demand for eco-conscious choices.

• Increased Interest in Motorisation: With growing demand for smart home integration, Motorised systems like the Solare Teknica T5550 meet consumer needs for convenience and effortless control.

“While the market has faced economic fluctuations, there remains a strong demand for high-quality, long-lasting outdoor shading solutions. Rising costs in raw materials and shipping have tempered sales growth, yet premium products like the Solare Teknica T5550 continue to appeal to those seeking dependable, stylish, and sustainable solutions. The ongoing consumer focus on creating comfortable, functional outdoor spaces means that high-performance products like the T5550 maintain relevance and value.

“With the Solare Teknica T5550 Motorised Auto Awning as a flagship offering, Blinds by Peter Meyer combines innovation, practicality, and elegance in outdoor shading solutions. By introducing cutting-edge technology to traditional designs, we deliver a range that caters to the evolving needs of Australian homeowners, providing them with the perfect balance of functionality, style, and durability for their outdoor spaces.”

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