Homegrown heroes

BM Blinds

BM Blinds Managing Director Michael Shaw has steered the company towards its current status as a trusted name in the window furnishings industry, particularly in the Australian made arena.

As an accredited Australian-made product, BM Blinds’ vertical sheers reflect a commitment to supporting local industries and adhering to stringent quality standards. By employing skilled professionals, the company ensures that every product aligns with the values of Australian craftsmanship and quality. This dedication to local manufacturing not only contributes to the economy but also provides customers with the assurance of superior quality and ethical production practices.

Vertical sheers are an innovative window treatment option that blends the practicality of vertical blinds with the softness and sophistication of sheer curtains. BM Blinds’ vertical sheers are designed to offer homeowners and businesses the perfect balance of light control, privacy, and style. Whether you’re looking to enhance a modern interior or add a touch of elegance to a traditional setting, these versatile window coverings provide a seamless solution.

“One of the standout features of BM Blinds’ vertical sheers is their use of the latest generation collection of fabrics called Lume,” says Shaw. “These advanced materials are carefully selected to ensure they meet the highest standards of quality and performance. The fabrics are not only visually appealing but also designed to withstand the rigours of everyday use. They are easy to maintain, resistant to fading, and available in a variety of colours and textures to complement any décor. The Lume collection features three ranges including Obscura, Tecnica and Ligne.”

The craftsmanship at BM Blinds is second to none. Each vertical sheer is meticulously manufactured to deliver a product that exceeds customer expectations. The attention to detail in every aspect of production ensures that the final product is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. The smooth operation of the vertical sheers, coupled with their durable construction, makes them a reliable choice for long-term use.

“BM Blinds also takes pride in offering customisable solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients. Customers can choose from a wide range of fabric options, colours, and configurations to create a window treatment that perfectly suits their space. Whether it’s for a residential property or a commercial project, the team at BM Blinds works closely with clients to deliver tailored solutions that enhance the aesthetic and functionality of any environment.

“For those seeking high-quality,accredited Australian-made window furnishings, BM Blinds’ vertical sheers are an outstanding choice.”

Blinds By Peter Meyer

For nearly four decades, Blinds by Peter Meyer has remained a trusted name in the window furnishings industry, consistently championing Australian manufacturing. Since its inception in 1987, the company has exemplified craftsmanship and innovation, setting benchmarks for quality and service within the Trade sector.

Nestled in the heart of Homebush, Sydney, Blinds by Peter Meyer has mastered the art of in-house manufacturing. Its range of locally produced products includes Rollers, Romans, Panels, Plantation Shutters, Venetian Blinds and Curtains Tracks. Notable offerings include their exclusive Simply Natural Woven blinds collection and their custom painted and custom stained Simply Cedar Venetians. Each product reflects the skill and dedication of a workforce with remarkably low turnover, many of whom have been part of the company for over 15 years. This continuity of expertise ensures every item is meticulously crafted to the highest standard.

Managing Director Simon Meyer says a hallmark of the company’s production capabilities is customisation. 

“Blinds by Peter Meyer stands out as one of the last Australian manufacturers to produce locally crafted and custom-painted Cedar Venetians. With on-site spray painting booths and a team of seasoned professionals, the company also offers custom-stained Natural Woven blinds, custom-painted Roman blind tubes, and matching buttons or acorns on Timber Venetians—a testament to their ability to meet unique design requirements.”

Blinds by Peter Meyer has also observed increased popularity of products like Urban Weave blinds, a signature offering that continues to captivate homeowners and designers alike. 

Additionally, its venture into premium Curtain Track manufacturing, bolstered by a robust partnership with Silent Gliss, has opened new avenues of growth. 

“A key highlight is our in-house bending specialty,” says Meyer, “which allows us to expertly customise curtain tracks for intricate installations.”

“Recently, our team demonstrated their skill by forward and reverse bending a track to perfectly hug a corner and curve seamlessly around a pole. This capability, combined with innovative profiles and accessories such as Metropole and Metroflat Curtain Rods, and black Track components, underscores our commitment to tackling even the most challenging projects.” 

Blinds by Peter Meyer’s commitment to Australian manufacturing extends beyond craftsmanship to strategic investments. Recent years have seen substantial enhancements to its Homebush facilities, including the acquisition of an advanced XY plotting table for fabric cutting. This state-of-the-art equipment has not only increased production efficiency but also enabled the company to undertake larger commercial projects with confidence. These upgrades, coupled with process restructuring, underscore the company’s dedication to maintaining a competitive edge in an ever-evolving industry. Always attuned to local and international trends, Blinds by Peter Meyer continually refreshes their offerings, with an update to their Signature Range slated for this year.

Meyer notes that the company remains steadfast in addressing industry challenges such as rising raw material and transport costs and the persistent difficulty of securing skilled labour. 

“Blinds by Peter Meyer takes pride in its remarkably low staff turnover. This continuity ensures a wealth of expertise and craftsmanship that directly benefits the quality of their products. Our proactive approach includes leveraging government programs to attract talent, fostering knowledge transfer through mentorship, and providing hands-on training within our experienced team, which plays a key role in maintaining their skilled and dedicated workforce.”

In an era where local manufacturing faces intense competition from imports, Blinds by Peter Meyer’s strategy stands out. While the global supply chain has seen disruptions and changing consumer preferences, the company strategically limits imported offerings to German-manufactured Weinor exterior products and the Simply Cell range, which continue to inspire confidence among Australian buyers.

Bekaert Deslee

Bekaert Deslee is a global manufacturer of textiles for the bedding industry. In addition, Bekaert Deslee Australia specialises in textiles for the decoration industry including blind fabrics, drapery, healthcare and top of bed.

“There has been steady growth for us over the past few years as we have seen the appetite for Australian Made products increase in the market,” Bekaert Deslee General Manager, Cedric Deleu tells WFA. 

“A shift in consumer behaviour has also highlighted the importance of local manufacturing in ensuring product security and reducing reliance on overseas suppliers. The growing trend toward near-sourcing, or producing goods closer to the consumer market, has played a crucial role in our steady growth. This approach offers greater security of supply and minimises disruptions in global supply chains, which have been particularly vulnerable in recent years.

Bekaert Deslee Australia has invested in the future of the business having built a brand-new state of the art facility in Officer which it will move to in Q1 2025. This facility is designed to optimise production processes, increase efficiency, and allow the company to meet the rising demand for Australian-made textiles. 

“By modernising our manufacturing operations, we are positioning ourselves for long-term success in a competitive market.

“This investment not only improves productivity but also provides a boost to the local economy, creating job opportunities and strengthening Australia’s manufacturing capabilities. As manufacturing faces increased pressure from external economic factors, such as rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions, strategic investments in modern facilities and equipment are critical to maintaining competitiveness.

Bekaert Deslee Australia benefits from being part of a global company that offers comprehensive training modules to all employees. This support allows Bekaert Deslee Australia (BDAU) to provide its workforce with the necessary skills to excel in an increasingly complex and competitive industry. By prioritizing training and upskilling, BDAU ensures that its team remains capable of meeting the demands of modern manufacturing.

The company has a strong belief in local manufacturing. “Our motto ‘close to you,’ operates with a global perspective, ensuring our manufacturing presence is aligned with the locations of our customers. By embracing near-sourcing, BDAU is not only enhancing our ability to meet demand more efficiently but also reinforcing the importance of local production for long-term business resilience.

“The future of local manufacturing in Australia appears promising, with steady growth in demand for Australian-made products and companies like BDAU leading the charge through investment in advanced facilities and workforce training. However, the sector must navigate challenges such as rising energy costs and a shortage of skilled labour. By focusing on near-sourcing, strategic investments, and comprehensive training programs, local manufacturers can continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving global market.”

Ziptrak

“At Ziptrak, we are deeply rooted in the Australian way of life. For 24 years, we’ve been designing and manufacturing innovative blind systems that cater to the unique needs of Australian homes and businesses. Our commitment to being Australian-made is at the heart of everything we do, allowing us to create products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our local customers.”

“Operating out of the Tonsley Innovation District in South Australia, our headquarters is a hub of design, engineering, and manufacturing excellence. Every Ziptrak blind is meticulously crafted in Tonsley using locally sourced materials whenever possible. The plastics we use are Australian-made, and our aluminium components are supplied from right here in South Australia. By prioritising Australian suppliers, we not only ensure the highest quality standards but also contribute to the local economy and support other homegrown businesses.”

“While our roots are firmly planted in Australia, Ziptrak has gained global recognition, with our blinds now available in 17 countries. This international success showcases the world-class quality and ingenuity that Australian manufacturing represents. Yet, no matter where our blinds are installed, our commitment to local craftsmanship and community remains steadfast.”