Engines of growth

Coulisse

“The past year has been a breakthrough period for motorised interior shading,” says Coulisse media spokesperson Mariët Buld. “For Motionblinds, our smart motor range, we’ve seen strong double‑digit growth globally, driven by the rise of smart homes, rapid technological progress, and increasing focus on energy‑efficient buildings. Across many regions including APAC, partners are recognising the potential of smart shading and actively promoting motorisation – in some cases even positioning it as the new standard.

“This momentum contributes significantly to our ambition to become the global leader in motorised interior window coverings by 2030.”

Coulisse’s most notable launch has been the complete Motionblinds low-voltage wired motor range, which builds on the company’s extensive battery line and includes 24V DC motors for roller blinds, roman blinds, venetian blinds, and curtains. These motors are the first and only DC wired solutions to integrate Matter, Thread, 433 MHz, and Dry Contact, making them one of the most future‑ready options available today.

Coulisse has also recently introduced Absolute Silence, which it describes as “a new benchmark for acoustic comfort, delivering exceptionally quiet operation up to 15 dB quieter than standard motorised shades.” Another new release, Smart Frame, offers a drill‑free motorised solution designed specifically for tilt‑and‑turn windows and doors.

“Market response has been strong, with customers valuing the combination of simplicity, interoperability, and advanced smarthome readiness.”

Meanwhile Coulisse continues to promote the benefits of its flagship motorisation product.

“Our low‑voltage wired motors, including the CM‑50‑E‑R for rollerblinds and CM‑51‑E for curtains, are standout solutions in our portfolio. Their strength lies in combining low‑voltage safety with advanced smarthome integration, including built-in Matter and Thread technology, drycontact capability, and a power plug for straightforward installationwithout the need of a professional installer.

“Together with our battery and wired motor ranges, they ensure we can deliver a complete Motionblinds solution across roller blinds, curtains, and other applications, all designed for modern connected living.”

The company notes that adoption of technologies such as voice control and integrated home automation systems are influencing growth within the sector.

“Technological developments are accelerating demand. The rise of IoT has made connectivity a natural expectation in the home, and universal standards such as Matter and KNX are making it easier for devices to work together regardless of brand or ecosystem.

“AI is amplifying this shift, enabling smarter, more intuitive home experiences. While the industry is still investing heavily in awareness, motorised shading will soon be viewed as a standard part of a connected home rather than an add‑on.”

In addition, battery life and overall performance have made key advances over the past five years.

“Battery motors have played a key role in expanding the accessibility of motorised blinds. Their integrated, energy‑efficient batteries make installation as simple as manual systems, and they can be recharged easily via a universal USB‑C cable or solar panel.

“Performance has advanced significantly, especially in systems connected through low‑power Thread mesh networks, where battery life is extended thanks to optimised technology designed specifically for smart‑home environments.

Coulisse’s wire‑free range is positioned as offering a number of benefits for fabricators, installers, and end users: complete motor range for blinds, shades, and curtains; USB‑C charging with optional solar charging; QR‑code scan for simple smartphone setup; account‑free use with local control for full data privacy; silent shading up to 15 dB quieter than standard motorised shades (patented); pull control for manual override of smart controls (patented); on‑motor program buttons for setup and adjustments without additional devices.

“These features make Motionblinds powered systems easy to install, intuitive to use, and ready for modern smart home ecosystems.”

Louvolite

According to Louvolite, the motorisation market continues to experience strong growth, enabling the company to significantly expand its offering over the past decade. 

“The launch of our new 2000, 3000 and 6000 Series motors clearly demonstrates our commitment to evolving in line with our customers’ needs and expectations.

“As blinds become larger and fabrics heavier, performance demands have increased, and we have adapted accordingly. Our latest motor range is designed to meet these challenges head-on, delivering enhanced power, reliability and efficiency.

“With simplified programming and intuitive, user-friendly interfaces, installation has never been easier, giving installers greater confidence and providing consumers with an exceptional user experience.”

Louvolite’s latest DC and AC motor ranges now include models compatible with Matter and Thread technology, enabling seamless integration with the newest generation of smart home ecosystems such as Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Samsung SmartThings.

“This future-proof connectivity allows for simple voice and app-based control, offering consumers greater flexibility and convenience. The market response has been very positive, particularly as homeowners increasingly prioritise smart home compatibility when selecting shading solutions.”

“For many years, the industry has spoken about making technology easier and more intuitive. With Matter and Thread integration, Louvolite delivers exactly that. Consumers are no longer limited to standalone remote controls; instead, they can operate their blinds via smartphone apps or simple voice commands, seamlessly integrating them with other smart devices throughout the home or office. This level of interoperability ensures our motors work effortlessly within wider smart ecosystems — not as isolated products, but as part of a fully connected environment.

“This commitment to innovation sets Louvolite apart from competitors who focus purely on price. We invest heavily in product development and rigorous testing to ensure every motor delivers consistent, long-term performance and reliability.

“Every motor in the Louvolite range has been created to deliver smooth and extremely quiet movement, operating at just 30dBA – a soft whisper according to ISO3745 testing. This exceptional quietness makes them ideal for both residential and commercial installations where comfort and refinement are essential. The ultra slim motor head design has been carefully engineered to minimise the light gap around the blind, ensuring superior light control and a sleek, unobtrusive finish that enhances any interior.

“Additionally, Louvolite’s advanced 16-channel remote-control system provides excellent flexibility. Multiple blinds can be individually controlled – all from one single control point. Furthermore, the remote features intelligent two-way communication, providing users with real-time feedback. This includes displaying remote battery levels, motor battery levels and blind position.” 

The company notes that rapid adoption of integrated home automation systems has significantly accelerated growth within the motorisation sector. 

“That is why we have a range of motors that are compatible with technologies such as Matter and Thread, ensuring seamless integration across multiple smart home platforms.

“Consumers increasingly expect shading solutions to work effortlessly within their wider smart home ecosystem, and this demand is directly influencing product development and purchasing decisions.

“Over the past five years, significant advancements in battery technology and motor efficiency have greatly enhanced overall performance and reliability. Louvolite motors have become so dependable that we have been able to extend our warranty from three  years to five years, underlining our confidence in their long-term durability and consistent operation.”

“Louvolite’s wire-free motor range has been developed to deliver measurable advantages in performance, design and long-term reliability and is backed by our 5-year guarantee. 

“In terms of acoustics, Louvolite motors are among the quietest available on the market, operating at just 30dBA – delivering smooth, discreet movement that enhances comfort in both residential and commercial settings.

“Performance is matched by versatility. Our motors are compatible with a wide range of roller blind tube systems – including 38mm, 40mm, 43mm, 45mm, 49mm and 55mm profiles – making them suitable for a broad variety of installations.

“Design innovation is another key differentiator. The ultra-slim design significantly reducing light gaps and improving overall light control. This creates a cleaner, more refined finish. 

“Our 16-channel intelligent two-way remote-control system is another differentiator. Available as either a handheld or wall-mounted solution, the remote enables precise control while also providing real-time feedback, including remote battery status, motor battery level and blind position. 

“To complete the user-friendly experience, a single charging cable powers both motors and remotes, removing the need for disposable batteries and eliminating inconvenient last-minute trips to the hardware store to purchase replacements.”

Somfy

 “The on-trend end products over the past twelve months have been external screens, curtains, and roller blinds,” notes Nicki Beggs, Product Marketing Executive for Somfy Oceania.

In 2025, Somfy unveiled its extensive curtain motor offer, supporting both battery and wired installations to capitalise on the growing curtain trend.

Curtain motor options range from 35 to 60kg in weight-lifting capacity and are available in a multitude of protocols: WireFree, RTS, DCT, RS485, Zigbee.

“Consumers are looking for multi-tier solutions. They want choice but they don’t want to compromise on quality and that’s why they choose Somfy,” says Beggs.

“The Somfy name is synonymous with quality, and we have a solution to suit a comprehensive suite of internal and external applications.

“Our goal is to make motorisation accessible to all, regardless of application and budget.”

Another key enhancement for Somfy in 2025 was the introduction of its globally patented enhanced motor shaft for WireFree motors.

“We understand that time is equal to money, and we are dedicated to supporting our manufacturers and installers to optimise business efficiency.

“The quick drive assembly reduces installation time and will be rolled out to all RTS battery motors by the end of this year.

“We also launched the Pro Charging Station for USB-C battery motors to increase business efficiency and guarantee a fast-charging experience for up to 16 WireFree motors and battery packs prior to installation.

“The battery market is growing, with people opting to reduce the cost of their installation (no need for an electrician) which has seen battery motors become one of our biggest sellers.

“The ABS reported a higher growth in renovations compared to new builds from 2024 to 2025, with consumers choosing to renovate, rather than relocate or rebuild, and battery motors are meeting all their requirements.”

Somfy’s WireFree battery motor range promises high performance and low maintenance, with the brand confirming their dedication to investing in the wireless revolution.

“Every evolution of our WireFree motors has seen an enhancement in the battery life, acoustics, overall performance and charging experience.

“We are committed to supporting consumers to extend the battery life of their product and therefore reducing our impact on nature.

“We provide charging recommendations and tips, and in 2025 we launched the WireFree Li-ion Zigbee Solar Panel Kit which guarantees an extension of battery autonomy of a Smart Shading motor by up to 5 years when installed correctly.”

Somfy’s Smart Shading WireFree motors possess premium lithium-ion batteries and fast-charging capabilities.

The range features advanced charging accessories, interchangeable motor head covers, streamlined motor heads (battery and AC), Zigbee technology with bidirectional feedback, and smart home automation and voice control using the TaHoma switch hub.

“We’re also seeing growth in the pergola segment, with pergolas being perceived as the new trending roof system.”

Somfy affirms that the market is demanding automation that is cohesive across multiple brands for entry-level smart homes, boasting centralised control and personalisations to suit daily lifestyle. 

“Following the introduction of our smart shading range, we’ve discovered that the overwhelming majority of homes with one or more smart motors are connected to a TaHoma switch hub and voice control.

“TaHoma switch is the heart of the home and we’re so excited to show the full world of possibilities at SuperExpo 2026.

“It simplifies life by connecting the entire home: interior and exterior motors, lighting, sensors, door locks, sound systems, voice control and even weather stations.”

Shaw

Over the last 12 months, Shaw has launched the ShawSmart motor range, marking Shaw’s entry into the fast-growing motorisation segment, as Technical Sales Jack Kimmins confirms. “Shaw has experienced a strong early uptake across new installations and retrofit projects, particularly in rechargeable and smart-controlled solutions. The response from the market reinforces how quickly motorisation is shifting from a premium option to an expected standard in modern window furnishings.”

Shaw has continued to evolve the ShawSmart range with a focus on practical features for manufacturers, installers and end users. Key releases have included a more user-friendly push button remote, RF-only motors to support cost-effective motorisation, an outdoor motor with obstacle detection, and an expanded range of crown and drive adapters to suit a wider variety of tube systems in the market.

These updates have been well received by Shaw’s partners who seek to simplify, drive down costs and make motorisation more accessible, says Kimmins. 

He also notes specific recent high points for the brand. 

“Within the ShawSmart range, the RF only 1.8Nm DC motor has quickly become a flagship product due to its focus on practical versatility and accessibility. It shows that despite a large area of the market is demanding home automation, there is a large space for simplicity in the motorisation sphere. 

“The 1.8Nm torque of this motor is capable of lifting the vast majority of domestic and commercial roller blinds. A key advantage is that all accessories remain compatible with the existing ShawSmartZigbee range, enabling consistency for manufacturer’s stock holding.” 

Kimmins also observes that the rise of voice control and integrated home automation is driving strong growth in the motorisation sector, as homeowners increasingly expect blinds to work seamlessly with platforms like Alexa and Google Home. 

“For Shaw, this has boosted demand for the ShawSmartZigbee range, which allows easy smart integration. Home automation offers end users practical benefits, such as setting schedules for wake-up and night-time routines, improving energy efficiency, and adding convenience and comfort to daily life. The upcoming ShawSmartapp will make these features even easier to access and customise, further enhancing the appeal of automated window furnishings.

“Over the past five years, wireless motorisation has become more reliable, and importantly, more cost effective thanks to smarter battery design. Modern motors now run longer between charges, operate more quietly, and maintain consistent performance even on larger blinds. These improvements mean homeowners can enjoy automated window coverings with minimal maintenance, while installers can offer cordless solutions across a wider range of applications with confidence.

“The ShawSmart wire-free range is designed to cover virtually every application with one streamlined platform. The lineup includes 1Nm and 1.8Nm motors for everyday indoor blinds, 6Nm for larger internal applications, and a 20/12 DC motor for outdoor systems, with the option of a solar panel for sustainable, low-maintenance charging outdoors. Installers can choose between Zigbee and RF-only control, depending on project requirements, while built-in fire-safe battery housing adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for homeowners.

Norman

“Motorisation is an underleveraged sales opportunity in the window furnishings industry,” says Giorgia English, Marketing Manager at Norman. 

“The technology is mature, the price points have never been more accessible, and the demand for convenience in the home is only growing. Yet for many customers, motorisation still doesn’t feel like something meant for them; it feels like a luxury for someone else’s home, someone else’s budget, someone else’s level of tech comfort. That perception gap is where the real opportunity sits.

“The honest truth is that most customers aren’t rejecting motorisation, they simply haven’t been shown a version of it that makes sense for their life. They’ve mentally filed it alongside smart home systems that require installation days and instruction manuals, not realising that the category has moved well beyond that. Closing that gap doesn’t require a hard sell. It requires the right introduction at the right moment.

“AutoWand is that introduction. Launched across Norman’s Roman shades, PerfectSheer, and Soluna roller shades, AutoWand is battery-powered, completely wire-free, and operated by a simple integrated wand with three buttons – up, down, stop. No app. No hub. No electrician. When the battery needs recharging, a simple USB cable is all it takes. For the customer who has always quietly wanted the convenience of motorisation but assumed it wasn’t practical or affordable for them, AutoWand removes every barrier in a single conversation. The pitch is simply this: effortless operation, clean installation, and a price point that makes the decision easy.

“For retailers, one of the most compelling upsell conversations in Norman’s range right now is the ability to combine a motorised Roman shade with a motorised roller shade on a single window, a pairing unique to the market that creates a seamless day-to-night solution, transitioning effortlessly from filtered light to full privacy at the touch of a button. Norman’s motorised Romans are available with either a wired or rechargeable battery option to suit different installations, and the entire product arrives complete and ready to install, unlike other solutions in the market. Motorised Romans are a natural next step for the range, bringing the softness and versatility of fabric fully into the motorisation conversation.”

At the top of Norman’s motorisation range, the ShadeAuto hub is designed for customers who want full smart home connectivity. It links all Norman motorised products into one integrated system, controlled through the ShadeAuto app or by voice with Google, Alexa, or Siri. 

“Beyond simple operation, the hub allows customers to set personalised schedules, with blinds that open with the sunrise, close when they leave for work, or adjust automatically while they’re away on holiday. It’s the kind of effortless, considered living that resonates deeply with the right customer, and for retailers, bringing those scenarios to life in a demonstration is where the ShadeAuto conversation really begins.

“The customer who thinks motorisation isn’t for them is often the most rewarding one to convert. With the right products and the right conversation, that hesitation turns quickly, and Norman’s range is built to make that moment possible for every retailer.”