BMAA SuperExpo 2023: Unveiling innovations and building connections

With an impressive turnout of almost 5000 attendees, the exhibition served as a dynamic platform for industry professionals to engage with the latest products and services presented by 108 exhibitors. Its magnitude was reflected in its expanded venue, which necessitated the booking of an additional hall, resulting in a record-breaking floor area of 7,155 square metres at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

After a four-year hiatus, this year’s SuperExpo was an eagerly awaited occasion for exhibitors to showcase their innovations, solutions, technologies, and the most recent industry trends.

Exhibitors and attendees agreed that it had delivered on its promise, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience, featuring informative presentations during the day and evening social events that fostered informal networking opportunities.

One of the key highlights noted by exhibitors was the invaluable opportunity to interact with delegates face-to-face, with direct engagement facilitating deeper connections and meaningful conversations, allowing exhibitors to showcase their offerings while gaining valuable insights and feedback from industry professionals. The SuperExpo served as a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing, fostering collaboration, and driving industry growth.

BECKER
Becker’s Centronic Plus, the next generation of the company’s Centronic II radio, took centre stage on the Becker stand at SuperExpo 2023. Anthony Wallace from Becker describes it as “even more powerful, also with a feedback function,” emphasising the company’s evolutionary strides.

The Centronic Plus boasts a standout feature: precise status feedback, allowing users to monitor the position of their blinds, awnings, or shutters in real-time. Additionally, it creates a robust mesh network by connecting all transmitters and receivers, enhancing range and transmission reliability. Wallace highlights the convenience and security provided by the powerful and encrypted radio frequency.

Notable features include colour- coded LEDs indicating receiver status, a reliable bi-directional radio, and an interference-free radio frequency operating at 915 MHz. The Centronic Plus simplifies management with auto-detection of new devices and easy commissioning, enabling seamless integration into the mesh network. It is also compatible with various transmitters from the Centronic II Range.

Becker also showcased the Becker Central Control App through the CC41 Home Hub at SuperExpo 2023. This application allows users to effortlessly identify the exact position of blinds or shutters for efficient operation.

BM BLINDS
BM Blinds seized the opportunity to showcase their Veri Shades product within the segmented curtain range at SuperExpo 2023. Visitors to their stand were captivated by the unique features and elegance of the BM Veri Shades, setting it apart from the competition.

Michelle Macready, the Sales Manager at BM Blinds, shared insights about the event and the reception of their products. She mentioned that two main questions were posed by visitors at their stand. The first question was regarding the fabrics used in their exclusive Symmetry range. Fabrics such as Milky, Albino, and Wash caught the attention of attendees, creating a buzz throughout the expo. These fabrics were prominently displayed, covering a total of 9 meters, and Symmetry Storm, with its deep blue hue, also proved to be popular among those seeking a coastal or Hampton-style interior.

The second question posed by visitors was what makes a BM Veri Shades different. Macready emphasized the subtle yet significant differences that set the BM Veri Shades apart from others in the market. One of these differentiators is the use of stainless steel spacer links, ensuring longevity and ease of use. These stainless-steel links prevent bowing and warping with frequent use, maintaining the luxurious appearance of the shade segments. The incremental spacing between segments gives the BM Veri Shades a consistent and opulent arc.

Macready highlighted the versatility of the BM Veri Shades, offering various operation methods including wand, cord, chain, and motorized options. This versatility allows customers to choose the desired look and functionality for their window coverings. The BM Veri Shades also offers options for wand placements, minimizing gaps and creating a seamless appearance when used with butting and split stack segmented curtains.

Additionally, BM Blinds has paid attention to the finer details, providing specifically designed face-fit brackets that offer the appropriate clearance for both plush and sleek BM Veri Shades. The matching bracket covers add a sophisticated touch, ensuring a true curtain and soft furnishings finish. Macready also emphasized the packaging of BM Veri Shades, ensuring crease-free segments with pre-folded ends clearly labeled with left and right stickers, facilitating quick and easy installation.

SuperExpo provided a valuable platform for BM Blinds to connect with potential clients, engage with industry peers and suppliers, and strengthen existing relationships. As an exhibitor who assembled their own stand, the team at BM Blinds bonded with attendees, including trusted partners, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating enduring memories in a fun and relaxed environment.

CHARLES PARSONS
Charles Parsons was one of a number of soft furnishings suppliers to exhibit at the SuperExpo, with drapery taking up the a large amount of floor space at the show.

Among Charles Parsons’ spotlighted fabrics at the show were Carter and Drake, two elegant solutions for sheer drapery. Carter, with its raw woven look, comes in 11 muted tones, including on-trend shades of dusky pinks, greens, and blues. Made from easy-care 100% polyester, Carter offers a natural aesthetic without the maintenance demands of natural materials. Its wide width of 330cm and weighted hem ensure beautiful draping and versatility.

Drake, inspired by Scandinavian interiors, features stunning texture and soft, neutral hues, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Its clean lines and modern aesthetic make it a perfect choice for those seeking to enhance a contemporary decor style.

Both Carter and Drake, made in Turkey, have undergone fire testing and are certified safe for any home or commercial space under AWTA ratings 1530.2 and 1530.3.

With their beautiful textures, stunning colours, and practical benefits, Carter and Drake are ideal options for adding elegance and style to any space.

COULISSE
Coulisse, a leading provider in global window coverings, made a remarkable debut at SuperExpo 2023, leaving attendees captivated with its innovative offerings. The company proudly presented its two iconic textile collections, Signature and Function, which have been custom-designed for the Australasian market. With widths starting from 280 cm, these textiles offered a perfect blend of style, functionality, and customisation options. From sheer to light filtering and blockout screens, Coulisse’s textiles provide safety, energy- efficiency, and convenience for any interior.

A showstopper at the Coulisse booth was the Future-proof MotionBlinds range, a groundbreaking innovation in the realm of smart home solutions.

Rogier Krabbe, Coulisse Managing Director – Asia Pacific, emphasises its capabilities.

“MotionBlinds is Coulisse’s answer to a smart home. With smartphone or voice assistant control, users can open and close window furnishings anytime, anywhere.”

These smart motors enable safe and cord-free operation, supporting leading smart home networking technologies such as Thread and soon Matter. Compatible with major platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings, MotionBlinds provide a seamless integration without the need for additional bridges or accounts.

In addition to its impressive presence at SuperExpo, Coulisse invited industry professionals to explore its newly opened experience centre in Sydney. Equipped with the latest collections, hardware, and technology, the centre serves as a hub for inspiration, knowledge, and support. Krabbe encouraged visitors to book a visit, stating, “We go the extra mile to provide our partners with the inspiration, products, knowledge, and support they need.”

CW SYSTEMS
CW Systems used the show to launch its Aura Express fabric collection. With an expanded range of 68 popular fabrics, Deanna Crutcher from CW Systems says Aura Express offers an unmatched ordering experience for window furnishing and home improvement retailers across the country.

“One of the key features of Aura Express is its thoughtfully curated selection of fabrics. Instead of overwhelming customers with endless options, the limited range ensures high standards of quality and style, making it easier for distributors to confidently select fabrics for their projects without feeling overwhelmed,” Crutcher says.

“The Cora Trade hub, built on a picture-based system, simplifies the ordering process, allowing distributors to swiftly choose their desired options with just a few clicks. This streamlines the process, eliminating concerns about cutting sheets or deductions and minimising administrative work.”

To aid decision-making, Aura Express provides an easy-to-use sample kit. This kit includes actual fabric samples from the curated range, enabling distributors to feel the textures and see the colours firsthand before making a final decision.

“Aura Express further offers the convenience of stocked fabric in its warehouse. With a comprehensive inventory ready for manufacturing into curtains, CW Systems ensures faster turnaround times, keeping distributors on schedule and meeting client expectations.”

“Aura Express aims to simplify and streamline the curtain ordering experience, providing customisation and convenience to distributors in the shading industry,” Crutcher adds.

DALEKIT
Dalekit Awnings, a Sydney- based manufacturer, unveiled its new internal range at the BMAA SuperExpo. The company has recently relocated to a spacious 7000 square metre manufacturing facility in South Windsor, NSW, to accommodate its expansion plans.

Over the past 25 years, Dalekit has evolved from a father-son team operating in a tin shed on the outskirts of Sydney to a leading wholesale manufacturer specialising in outdoor blinds and awnings.

To support its growth and improve processes, Dalekit has invested in a custom-made “mega-fabric cutting and fabric storage machine.” This state- of-the-art machine, developed in collaboration with European manufacturers, can produce a roller blind or awning skin in less than a minute, significantly increasing manufacturing speed and efficiency. This investment has also paved the way for the company’s new division, CLS (Cut Length Service), which will offer cut-to-size fabrics with fast lead times to roller blind manufacturers.

“Dalekit is proud of its longstanding partnership with Zipscreen, the versatile side retention system from Rollease Acmeda,” says Joanne de Silva, Dalekit’s General Manager. “The Zipscreen system has remained a frontrunner in the market due to its modern square design, user-friendliness, and continuous innovations by Rollease Acmeda.”

At the SuperExpo, Dalekit showcased its range of internal products, including roller blinds, Verishades, vertical blinds, curtains, pleated fly screens, shutters, and the newly launched CLS division. The company’s aim was to showcase its commitment to providing high-quality solutions for both outdoor and indoor applications.

HUNTER DOUGLAS
Damon Gardner, the newly appointed Managing Director for Hunter Douglas Australia and New Zealand, tells WFA that he is committed to continuing the company’s tradition of excellence.

“Over the years, Hunter Douglas has made significant investments in operations, people, customers and future marketplace opportunities.”

“I’ve witnessed a lot of change over the past 15 years but what remains constant is our willingness to make significant investments in our operations, our people, our customers and our future marketplace
opportunities. We’re excited for what’s to come,” says Gardner.

Luxaflex Window Fashions, Hunter Douglas’ flagship brand, is renowned worldwide for its quality and design. With a Dutch heritage, the brand prioritises advanced product design and functionality. The Luxaflex range has evolved over the years to meet the demands of Australian consumers, combining international and local innovations.

The company continues to prioritise innovation, with a focus on acoustic performance, technology, sustainability and aesthetics. Recent advancements include the PowerView motorisation home automation system and the eco-friendly Equascreen fabric range.

Vera Meharg, Marketing Communications Manager, emphasises the unique nature of the Luxaflex range in Australia, customised to suit the country’s climate and architectural styles. The Luxaflex Product Series offers a wide variety of styles, fabrics and finishes, ensuring Australian homeowners have ample choice.

Hunter Douglas also showcased the Alpha M Awning System, an innovative external awning with a magnetic retention system, at SuperExpo. The company’s stand also hosted the group’s Blindware range of products including Zerogravity and Sunboss Roller Blind System.

Blindware’s ZeroGravity system is positioned as a market leading solution for blind cord safety compliance with its chainless operation and child-friendly design. Enhanced based on manufacturer feedback, it features improved head unit design, smaller light gaps, auto- locking, and easy spring tension adjustment. Motorised, a 1Nm DC motor is capable of lifting a 3.5m wide blind.

The SunBoss roller blind system by Blindware stands out in the industry for its durability, reliability, and versatility. Constructed with high quality materials and precision engineering, it ensures long- lasting performance. With customisation options and suitability for various window sizes and applications, SunBoss offers a seamless solution for residential and commercial spaces.

OZROLL
Jack McDonald from Ozroll expresses his excitement about exhibiting at the SuperExpo 2023 on the Gold Coast. “After the challenges posed by the pandemic, the opportunity to reconnect with existing customers and attract new business was great.”

Ozroll’s standout product, the Elipso Louvres, was showcased in a captivating curved Louvre display that drew attention and generated interest on the stand.

The company also promoted its range of Outdoor blinds, featuring product improvements since 2019. Among the innovations is the introduction of the Straight Drop Awning and the industry- first “Chain Guide” blind. The latter provides control over the view by allowing every second chain link to be fixed and locked, offering a unique solution to traditional wire guide awnings. Enhancements to the Slidetrack Outdoor Blind include a reduced spline core for consistent roll-up and minimised fabric sag. Structural changes, such as the addition of screws for extra strength and improved fabric guide inserts, have further enhanced the product’s durability.

Ozroll’s Plantation shutters have experienced significant operational improvements, allowing the delivery of Australian-made products in industry-leading build times. The company’s new purpose- built facility and state-of-the-art equipment in Staplyton, QLD, enable it to manufacture and distribute over 1200 panels per week. Ozroll has continued product development during this transition, introducing exciting advancements.

Roller shutters remain the company’s core business and Ozroll is actively involved in the BMAA wincovER initiative, offering details on how its products perform in terms of U value and solar heat gain coefficient. This information empowers customers to make informed decisions about their window coverings.

PACIFIC WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS
The world of window furnishings is constantly evolving, and Pacific Wholesale Distributors is at the forefront with its innovative product, Veri Shades. Gavin Taylor, Veri Shades’ National Sales and Marketing Manager, emphasises the game-changing nature of these blinds that offer a softer interior and unique functionality.

“Floor-to-ceiling sheer curtains have remained a popular choice for homeowners, adding texture, movement, and diffused natural light to a space. However, the limitation of either having the curtains fully open or closed has been a challenge. Veri Shades addresses this issue by combining the elegance of sheer curtains with the versatility and control of blinds,” Taylor says.

Designed for Australian homes, Veri Shades features curved fabric vanes that add height and drama to a room. “With a range of fabric options and neutral colours, homeowners can personalise their space to their liking. Not only do Veri Shades look good, but they are also practical. Made from easy-care fabric with a UV protection factor of 50+, they can be steamed straight without weights and offer an extra level of child safety by eliminating noisy cords and chains.”

The innovative concept of Veri Shades extends to its seamless indoor/outdoor living experience. The individual translucent fabric vanes can be walked through at any point, offering convenience and flexibility. Turning a wand allows for privacy and light control, creating a cohesive interior look.

“Pacific Wholesale Distributor’s exhibition at SuperExpo 2023 provides an excellent platform to showcase the Veri Shades’ revolutionary features. Visitors can witness firsthand how these blinds transform spaces, combining style, functionality, and versatility.”

REDI SHADE
One of the unique products seen at SuperExpo 2023 was the launch of Redi Shade Temporary Paper Shades in Australia. Well known outside Australia, Redi Shade were the original creators of the Temporary Shade product category, now sold around the world.

Grant Norton, previously the founder of Blindware, departed the now Hunter Douglas owned company at the end of 2023 and established RediShade Australia, the official distributor for the Redi Shade product.
The SuperExpo was the launch vehicle for the new business, with a bright and colourful display.

Norton told WFA that his first shipment of stock had now arrived and the business was commencing to trade. “Following the launch at SuperExpo, we have received strong support for the product from many retailers who had not seen Temporary Blinds before” Norton said.

“We have launched Light Filter and Blockout temporary paper shades in two sizes, 910x2270mm and 1200x2270mm, which are ideal sizes for our market. The shades are supplied in consumer friendly 4-packs, which are supplied in master cartons of 9x 4-packs. A high-quality retail display stand has been developed and is available for sale. The display holds 4x master cartons, ie. the four core product SKU’s. Replenishing is easy, just place an order on our easy-to-use Customer Portal and replenish the fastest moving items only.”

Also launched was Redi Shade’s temporary shade solution for Arch windows, using similar pleated blind technology. These shades can cover an arch window up to 1820mm wide and are very easy to cut to size using a kitchen or utility knife. The Arch Shades are easily trimmed and can even be used for both perfect and imperfect Arch windows. The shades are supplied with a clear arch holder, calibrated scale for correct trimming and instruction sheet.

RICKY RICHARDS
According to Ricky Richards National Sales Manager, Darren Best, the four-day trade show proved to be the best place to showcase our latest products, unveil products in development, display new sampling concepts, while connecting with likeminded individuals and customers, some of which the company had been unable to physically see over the last few years.

“SuperExpo is hosted by not one, but two major industry bodies: Specialised Textiles Association (STA) and Blind Manufacturers’ Association of Australia (BMAA), this event allows us to show our support for our industry bodies, and peers through the celebration of achievements, technology and manufacturing developments,” Best added.

Best highlighted that the Technical Textiles and Sun Control parts of Ricky’s business have new products and sampling in development.

One of the standout collections, as Best explains, is Outlook Mesh, developed in partnership with Phifer Inc., which remains the leading mesh on the market. Best highlights its key features, stating, “Outlook mesh fabrics reflect up to 95% of solar energy while still allowing air to pass through, helping to create a cooler, more comfortable environment naturally.” The range offers three types of openness, as well as Mode Zero, a true visual blockout mesh. Additionally, Outlook mesh is manufactured using Dow Ecolibrium technology, which utilizes Bio-Based Plasticisers made from renewable feedstock, resulting in a reduced environmental impact.

For outdoor blinds, awnings, upholstery, and curtains, Best recommends the Docril Acrylic and Bliss collections. He notes that these 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabrics offer superior color fastness and weather resistance. Best highlights the features of Docril, stating, “The collection is coated with Dupont Teflon which means that they are easy to clean, have exceptional resistance to high temperatures, chemical reaction, corrosion, and stress cracking.” On the other hand, the Bliss collection caters to the demands of the outdoor upholstery market, offering an extensive selection of colors, textures, and patterns.

Best also introduces Solterior FR, a solution-dyed polyester fabric produced using recycled PET drink bottles. He explains, “Being made with yarn that is produced out of used PET plastic bottles gives a second life to a product that is not biodegradable and would otherwise end up as landfill.” Solterior FR is ideal for commercial awnings, folding arm awnings, and market umbrellas, boasting features such as fire retardancy, waterproofing, and UV stabilization.

Best emphasizes that the company is constantly searching for greener options and striving to make impactful changes.

“The fact that we can offer textiles with greener materials and manufacturing methods that support the planet proves that the textile industry is attempting to make impactful changes.”

ROLLEASE ACMEDA & TEXSTYLE
Rollease Acmeda showcased all its latest product innovations across its house of brands; Zipscreen, Automate, Texstyle & Rollease Acmeda.

The market leading roller blind range was an area of focus with the expansion of the flagship RB09 chain control range. Among the additions was an engineered geared winder which significantly reduces user effort and chain guided versions for dual blinds. They also featured the recently launched S45 to S60 adaptor, presenting a more economical solution for blinds up to 3.4 metres wide.

The Automate brand presented a new Push series of controllers; the existing Push 5 & 15 will be joined by the intuitive and simple Push One, launching later this year. They also previewed the flagship Push Pro controller, the most sophisticated solution to date along with their next generation motor program compatible with Matter.

Zipscreen unveiled a revolutionary patent-protected spring control for safe and fast installation, allowing tension adjustment without removing the shade. The Sales & Product Management teams demonstrated this technology on the stand to hundreds of guests and are now excited to launch this along with several top hardware component upgrades come September. Zipscreen also previewed their latest Box 150 cassette, a mid- size option for outdoor shading ranging between 5.4 – 7 meres, expanding on their compact Box 120 and larger Box 190 suitable for commercial applications.

“There was an emphasis on understanding the voice of our customers at this show,” says Tim Way. “We presented a number of concept products, not yet offered in the range which were all well received by attendees.”

Texstyle focused on showcasing its latest product innovations, all launched in the first half of the year. This included; new additions to the Focus Collection available in 3.2m widths, Whitewash the newest colour in the Metroshade collection and Cascata, a waterfall inspired blockout roller shade collection.

Tim Way comments “Overall the show was a great success, we connected with a lot of customers and showcased our latest innovations. We’re now focused on bringing many of these to market in the coming months”

SCOTT FREE (AUST)
Scott Free (Aust) is becoming a recognisable name in the window furnishings industry. Its stated mission is to streamline the working lives of its partners through dedicated service, accurate product recommendations, and an efficient delivery service. Its approach aims to bring all the necessary elements together to assist businesses in the window furnishings sector.

“We operate with a strong focus on delivering exceptional service to all our clients,” says CEO Andrew Scott.“From our sales representatives who visit clients, to our customer support team who are always ready to listen and help with any enquiry, to our warehouse and logistics team operating in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, we strive to provide genuine customer service.”

“Our commitment to customer service extends beyond our existing partnerships. We are always looking for new partnerships and innovative solutions within the window furnishings industry and beyond. Our success is tied to that of our clients. By pushing the envelope with new products, we help our clients improve and better service the market.”

“We are easy to deal with, quick to respond and we problem solve. These values are embedded in our DNA, and we aim to achieve them each day.”

SERGE FERRARI
Serge Ferrari is making waves in the textile industry with the release of its European-made wide-width fabric, Soltis Veozip. Designed for side retention zip style blinds, the fabric is designed to fill a gap in the market for alternative options in zip style systems.

“Veozip provides high UV and wind protection, while still providing an excellent view of the outside world,” says Stephen Bride, Soltis National Sales Manager.

Known for their consistent quality and durability, Serge Ferrari’s European-made fabrics have earned a reputation for excellence. Veozip upholds this tradition while offering a natural look. Available in 15 on-trend colours to suit a range of tastes and decors, Veozip effectively extends living spaces by providing both protection and a connection to the outdoors.

In addition to the exterior fabric range, Serge Ferrari placed a marked focus on showcasing its interior ranges at SuperExpo 2023. To raise awareness, the company released an Interior Best Of swatch at the event. Bride highlights Soltis 99, a versatile fabric with high solar reflectance and excellent view- through options, including a black/white colourway. Soltis Touch, a textured screen that combines aesthetic qualities with thermal, acoustic, and visual protection, will also be featured.

Reflecting growing demand for recycled fabrics, Serge Ferrari is also unveiling Soltis Loop, its first fully recycled fabric. Made from 100% recycled yarns and polymers, Soltis Loop is PVC-free and phthalate-free. The company is committed to sustainability and has conducted extensive research and testing to develop this environmentally friendly fabric.

Another exciting addition is Soltis W88, a highly translucent waterproof fabric designed for pergola or awning roofs. Its lightweight composition and high dimensional stability make it ideal for retractable roofs, providing superior heat protection while taking up minimal space.

Serge Ferrari’s Précontraint process sets it apart from competitors. By maintaining tension throughout production, it achieves a smooth surface, allowing for the application of solar protective coatings and dirt-resistant treatments. This results in dimensionally stable, lightweight yet robust materials that retain their shape and provide exceptional heat protection.

SHAW
Shaw reported an impressive footfall on their stand attracting existing and potential customers from all sectors of the industry.

The SuperExpo presented Shaw with an opportunity to officially launch the Performance Hardware and Performance Fabrics Divisions. It was the perfect forum for the industry to meet the divisional team members, headed up by Ben Hayek and Mark Lewis respectively.

Hayek said overall Shaw received an outstanding response to all exhibits, but the standout for the Hardware Division was the ShawScreen external product range, including the new ZipGrip System, which their team is already busy setting up with customers via Shaw’s inhouse training program.

“From a Performance Fabrics perspective, the SuperExpo was a valuable forum to gauge customer reaction to concept roller and drapery fabrics, and Shaw is excited to report that all six ranges were received positively,” Lewis said.

In response to this customer feedback, Shaw will be bringing at least two fabric ranges to market from September this year, running into 2024.

SOMFY
Somfy brought forward-thinking innovation to SuperExpo 2023, unveiling its latest smart shading solutions that meet the technological demands of a rapidly changing industry. SuperExpo attendees had the opportunity to witness Somfy’s seamless and scalable smart shading solutions, making it quick and easy to sell, install, and service motorised interior and exterior window coverings.

The highlight of the three days was the customer event which saw well over one hundred customers joining Somfy for drinks and nibbles, as they celebrated another successful show.

Speaking at the event, Channel Manager – Industrial Sales for Somfy Oceania, Jodie Featherstone recognised Somfy’s contribution to giving consumers exactly what they’re looking for, “convenience, a simplified life and energy efficiency in a world where rising costs are hitting homes across Australia.”

The Somfy stand was built around its latest innovations including TaHoma suite – a trio of complementary tools – and Zigbee 3.0 technology, the mesh network and universal language that allows smart objects to work together.

“The focus of our 2023 SuperExpo stand was around going connected and having the ability to have one app to talk to all the different solutions in your home including blinds, curtains, awnings, lighting receivers, locks, garage and window openers, gates and other third party products such as your sound systems – one ecosystem to communicate with your entire home,” says Featherstone.

“The show was a real success for us,” adds Somfy’s Marketing Manager Mary Ladu. “It gave attendees the opportunity to get hands-on with our products and connect with Somfy product specialists who joined us all the way from France.”

Somfy also ran several short seminars over the course of the expo, giving attendees a deeper understanding of the latest Somfy products, with guided demonstrations on TaHoma suite and Zigbee 3.0 technology.

“It was fantastic to connect face-to-face with our customers, industry peers and friends again and present our upcoming product launches,” said Somfy Oceania’s Managing Director Stephen Eggleton.

“Somfy continues to invest in growing the market, from trade exhibitions like SuperExpo, to our end-user focused digital campaigns supporting and benefiting all our partners.”

TELECO
Light, heat, and outstanding value were brought to life at SuperExpo, where Teleco showcased its range of cost- effective lighting and heating solutions for awning and shade systems, with a side serve of gelati, Aperol Spritz and cocktails to connect to the company’s Italian roots.

The aim was to enhance the appeal of folding arm awnings by introducing simple integration options for lighting, heating, and control.

“Folding arm awnings have long been a staple in Australian homes, providing much-needed shade during the day. With the ongoing transition from manual to motorised awnings, remote control options have become increasingly popular for their user-friendly features,” says Mark San Martin, Teleco General Manager.

“The recent home improvement boom has seen homeowners expanding their living spaces outdoors, and Teleco’s affordable and streamlined lighting and heating solutions offer end- users a variety of options for their newly created outdoor areas. As the days grow shorter and colder, these solutions enable users to extend the usability of their outdoor spaces throughout the day.”

WILSON FABRICS
Wilson Fabrics showcased their latest innovations at the 2023 SuperExpo, unveiling the new Wide Width Blockout Drapery and Sheer collections: Ayers, Palm Cove, and Whitsundays. These collections were thoughtfully designed to coordinate with the existing blind fabrics Uluru and Daintree, providing customers with a comprehensive Australian-made window solution.

“Being an Australian Made Licensee holds great significance for Wilson Fabrics, as it represents trust, quality, and reliability, while also supporting local jobs,” says Peta Fitzgibbon, General Manager – Sales & Marketing for Wilson Fabrics. “The company takes pride in carrying the Australian Made logo, which serves to differentiate its products and emphasise the value of supporting locally made goods.”

“The new Wide Width Blockout collections, Ayers and Palm Cove, were proudly manufactured at Wilson Fabrics’ Mill in Wangaratta. These fabrics adhere to the highest quality standards and offer a range of core features and benefits, including Wide Width Continuous, Pitch Black Blockout Coating, Fade Resistance, UPF50+, FR AS1530.3 compliance, a 5-year Warranty, and Greenguard Accreditation.”

Additionally, the Whitsunday’s Sheer, another remarkable addition to Wilson Fabrics’ range, is also manufactured locally at the Wangaratta Mill. It holds the distinction of being the only Australian Made sheer available in the market. This sheer fabric has been specially developed with coordinating colours that seamlessly complement Wilson Fabrics’ entire collection of Blockout Drapery, Blockout Blinds, and Translucent Blinds.

ZIPTRAK
Ziptrak showcased its latest innovations at the 2023 SuperExpo, providing attendees with an up-close look at the fruits of its work. These groundbreaking components were developed in close collaboration with the Ziptrak network, ensuring they met the needs of customers worldwide.

At the exhibition, Ziptrak proudly unveiled an exciting range of new innovations, including a new bottom bar, centre-lock release handle, and smaller spline. These products exemplify Ziptrak’s commitment to continuous improvement and meeting the evolving demands of customers.

Building upon the success of previous expos, Ziptrak introduced the Ziptrak Trade Hub, an online knowledge base exclusively designed for trade customers. This secure platform offers a wealth of product training materials, including manuals, videos, and digital sales and marketing resources, providing a comprehensive resource for installers and retailers.

To enhance convenience further, the Trade Hub also introduced Digital Manuals, offering easy access to essential resources. Whether a seasoned Ziptrak pro or a newcomer, the Trade Hub ensures that trade customers have the most up-to-date information readily available at their fingertips.

Additionally, Ziptrak’s lead generation program introduced the innovative online sales tool called ‘Design Your Blind.’ This free tool allows Ziptrak retailers to provide on-site or in-store visualisations of blinds, enabling customers to create real-time renders and receive precise details via email for further consultation.