Motoring ahead

Shaw

Over the past 12 months, Shaw has noticed a marked rise in the demand for automated window blinds, particularly for controlling light and ensuring privacy, says Ben Hayek. 

“This increase has been driven by customer feedback and a keen observation of emerging interior design trends. As consumers seek more convenience, energy efficiency, and seamless smart home integration, motorised window treatments are fast becoming a popular choice in home automation.”

Shaw’s latest innovation, the ShawSmart Tubular Motors, has garnered positive attention in the market, he says. 

“These motors combine reliability, longevity, and affordability, making them an appealing option for homeowners and businesses alike. The ShawSmart Tubular Motors integrate easily with home automation systems, making them ideal for both new builds and retrofit projects. Customers have praised the product for its ease of use, consistent performance, and cost-effectiveness.

Shaw has partnered with a leading motorisation specialist, ensuring the team and customers receive thorough face-to-face training and continuous direct support. This partnership contributes to the ShawSmart motors’ excellent performance and the company’s ability to provide exceptional customer service.

“Each ShawSmart motor is meticulously tested during manufacturing to guarantee high performance and durability. The motors are compatible with Zigbee 3.0, an established home automation protocol, allowing for easy integration with existing smart home systems. This ensures users can effortlessly control their automated window treatments alongside other smart devices.”

In terms of safety and sustainability, ShawSmart motors include a protective sleeve around the battery to reduce fire risks. Additionally, the outdoor DC motors feature solar panels for charging, providing an environmentally conscious and energy-efficient solution for automated window coverings.

“The adoption of voice control technology and home automation systems has significantly impacted the growth of the motorisation sector. As consumers continue to prioritize convenience and energy efficiency, motorised window treatments are a natural fit. Automated blinds and shades can be integrated into a smart home system, allowing them to adjust based on sunlight, temperature, or time of day. This helps to reduce heating and cooling costs while ensuring greater comfort.”

“Automated awnings, for example, can retract or extend depending on weather conditions, offering better protection and increasing the longevity of the material. This integration of home automation and energy efficiency is driving demand for motorised window treatments, as consumers look for products that improve home functionality while reducing energy consumption.

Hayek notes that in the past five years, battery technology has greatly improved, benefiting motorised window coverings. “One notable development is the use of Zigbee 3.0 technology, which requires less battery power compared to Wi-Fi motors. Unlike Wi-Fi motors, Zigbee doesn’t continuously search for a signal, resulting in improved energy efficiency and longer battery life for the motors.

“These advancements have made motorised window treatments more reliable and cost-effective, requiring less maintenance and offering enhanced convenience for users.

“With the evolution of DC motor technology and the rise of wireless solutions, it’s fair to say the days of electricians wiring every window treatment are quickly becoming a thing of the past. Maybe the local electrician will have to find new ways to stay busy unless, of course, they jump into the smart home trend!”

Norman

“Motorised window furnishings sales have surged over the past year, driven by advancements in smart home technology, which is becoming more affordable and accessible,” says Norman’s Giorgia English. 

“As more products integrate seamlessly with home automation systems, consumer expectations are shifting, many now assume that window furnishings will offer a motorisation option rather than being limited to manual operation. Norman offers cutting-edge, cost-effective motorisation across its range of shutters and shades, prioritising convenience, reliability, and seamless operation for homeowners.”

One of Norman’s most notable releases in the past year is the ShadeAuto hub, a centralised control system that has been well-received in the market, she notes. “This innovative platform allows homeowners to manage all their motorised shades and shutters effortlessly through a single, user-friendly interface. With voice control compatibility and seamless integration with popular smart home systems, ShadeAuto enhances convenience and functionality, making it a top choice for tech-savvy consumers and driving higher adoption rates.”

“Norman has led the way in motorised shutters since introducing the industry’s first solution, and we continue to innovate to stay ahead. Our motorised shutters offer built-in solar panels for extended battery life, hidden motors for a sleek look, and whisper-quiet operation, all at a highly competitive price. Motorisation is available across our range of shutters, including specialty-shaped designs, ensuring a seamless solution for any window. Plus, each system comes pre-programmed for effortless installation, making setup quick and hassle-free for retailers.”

“The rise of voice control and home automation has significantly fuelled the growth of the motorisation market. As more consumers encounter this technology in the homes of friends and family and see it integrated into other household products, they increasingly view it as a viable option for their own homes. With greater affordability and accessibility, smart automation is becoming more mainstream. Norman’s ShadeAuto hub simplifies setup and ensures seamless compatibility with voice assistants and home automation systems, allowing homeowners to control their window furnishings via voice commands and alongside other smart devices.

She notes that battery technology has advanced significantly over the past five years, and Norman has continuously enhanced its motorised offerings to keep pace. 

“These advancements have driven the growth of wireless motorisation for window furnishings, providing a more cost-effective, easier-to-install alternative to expensive hardwired systems while delivering excellent performance for homeowners. Norman offers a wide range of wireless motorisation options across its product range, including the latest rechargeable systems. These eco-friendly alternatives to disposable batteries not only improve performance but also support sustainability.”

“Norman’s wire-free motorisation offers several advantages. Our motorised shutters feature a hidden motor and built-in solar panel for continuous charging, reducing upkeep and extending battery life. A built-in USB port allows for quick recharging when needed. For Honeycomb and Soluna Roller Shades, Norman’s PowerBar slots into the headrail for safe, hassle-free recharging without exposed cords or hardwiring. SmartDrape Shades feature an easily removable battery that recharges via USB-C for effortless power management. All wire-free motorised products connect to the ShadeAuto Hub, enabling centralised, smart home control, making Norman’s motorisation a leader in convenience and innovation.”

Becker

Becker Australia continues to roll out its newly upgraded radio solution, Centronic Plus, into the Australian market in 2025. Beckers Centronic Plus is a bi-directional radio system, distinguished by its modern design and versatile control options. The high-quality hand-held transmitters, featuring Multicolour LEDS, indicate the feedback from the receiver being addressed. Developed by Becker’s team of highly skilled engineers, Centronic Plus sets a new standard in radio technology for window coverings in Australia.

The Centronic Plus radio system is bi-directional, meaning the motors not only receive a signal from the remote control but also transmit signals with a mesh network. The motors individually connect to their own powerful mesh network which is generated by the devices themselves on installation. Information is then transmitted between devices in the mesh network, which helps to increase the range of the signal enormously.

This radio system also gives the consumer, when using the Becker CC41 Central Control App, the powerto see the precise position, by percentage, that the blind is in. Whether fully extended, two thirds out or fully retracted, the user will have the peace of mind of knowing exactly where their awning is. Centronic Plus also simplifies the installation process, making it extremely quick to install and modify when required.

Becker has also developed the Becker Tool App, a powerful tool for our customers and installers, making installation even easier. This software tool allows the installer to set end limits, intermediate positions, copy in sensors as well as setting up the transmitters. This can all be done without having to access the blinds on an individual basis, making the installation process simpler and more convenient. The App also allows the installer to set sun, wind and rain settings on every individual device installed, all at different levels, if that is what is required, all from the comfort of their smart device. This intuitive software tool simplifies the installation significantly.

Also worth noting is that the motors have blockage detection capabilities which, due to the bi-directional function, will tell the user when their awning has come across an obstruction or when the motor has hit a thermal overload. It is possible for the consumer to program two intermediate positions, whilst the motors can be programmed to close with higher force for devices such as cassette awnings. It is also possible to activate or de-activate a fabric untensioning function to take the tension off the fabric at the top end limit when required.

Centronic Plus remote controls are available as a 1, 8 or 16 channel hand-held versions and as 1 and 5 Channel Wall Mounted versions. 

Additionally, they allow the installer or consumer to set the threshold values of the sun or wind, up to a maximum of 80Km/h, and adjust the direction of the rain function.

Centronic Plus Sensors introduce a combined sun, wind and rain sensor as well as the more commonly used sun and wind options. The new sun, wind and rain sensor allows users to add a rain sensor to the installation in a simple and cost-effective way. Users can choose how they want the rain sensor to function-whether to extend or retract when it rains, all done via the hand held transmitter or via the App. The sensors also enter the mesh network, allowing a significant increase in which the sensors can communicate.

“Centronic Plus is compatible with our CC41 Central Control Home Hub as well. Connecting the Hub to the local WIFI Network is simple and intuitive for both the Installer and the Consumer. The Centronic Plus motors are then easily identifiable on the network and can be assigned into any room setup in the App as required. 

“The App is a very powerful tool, giving the user the ability to set timers, create their own scenarios, and adjust sun, wind and rain thresholds. With position recognition, Centronic Plus, gives the consumer ultimate control of their window coverings.”

Ricky Richards

Ricky Richards is promoting Bochini as an innovative solution for motorised retractable roofing.

“In modern architecture and outdoor living, motorised retractable roofing systems are transforming how we interact with our environments. From residential patios to commercial alfresco spaces, these systems offer the perfect blend of convenience, style, and functionality. 

“At the heart of a successful retractable system is a fabric that can withstand the elements, deliver exceptional performance, and maintain its aesthetic appeal. Bochini meets those expectations, being 300cm wide and a high-performance PVC fabric, it’s designed specifically for motorised retractable roofing systems and solar control applications.

Bochini is the ideal choice for motorised roofing systems, because motorisation in retractable roofing is all about seamless operation, durability, and user convenience. Bochini fabric enhances this experience by providing smooth operation when retracting or extending, thanks to its flexibility and robust construction. It works effortlessly with motorised systems, ensuring consistent performance without sagging or tearing.

Moreover, its solar control properties make it ideal for managing sunlight and temperature. The fabric blocks harmful UV rays while allowing for optimal light diffusion, creating comfortable outdoor spaces all year round.

Key features of Bochini include:

• 10-year warranty: Bochini comes with a 10-year warranty, reflecting its outstanding durability and longevity. This ensures that your investment in a retractable roofing system remains protected for years to come.
• Fire retardant: safety is paramount, especially in commercial applications. Bochini is fire retardant, offering peace of mind by meeting stringent safety standards required for public and private installations.
• Waterproof performance: designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, Bochini’s waterproof properties make it perfect for areas exposed to rain. The fabric ensures that outdoor spaces remain dry and functional, even in wet weather.
• Fungicide and mildew treated: Bochini is treated to resist mould and mildew, which can damage fabrics and compromise aesthetics. This treatment keeps the fabric looking fresh while reducing maintenance needs.
• Colorbond colour options: to complement modern architecture, Bochini is available in a range of Colorbond-matched colours. These colours are designed to blend seamlessly with roofing and structural elements, enhancing overall design appeal.
• Blockout fabric options: for projects requiring total light control, Bochini offers blockout fabric options. These are ideal for creating shaded, private spaces and are particularly suited for entertainment areas, commercial settings, and outdoor dining spaces.

“Solar control is a key factor in modern design, impacting energy efficiency, comfort, and aesthetics. Bochini’s solar control properties ensure reduced heat gain minimises solar heat absorption, lowering cooling costs; UV protection shields spaces from harmful UV rays, protecting furniture and occupants; enhanced comfort creates cooler, more comfortable environments ideal for relaxation or entertainment.

“Bochini not only improves comfort but also contributes to sustainable building practices by reducing reliance on air conditioning, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious projects.”

“Bochini is designed to excel in a variety of motorised roofing applications, including residential patios and outdoor living areas, providing shade, weather protection, and a stylish finish that complements modern homes.

For commercial outdoor spaces, it is ideal for restaurants, cafes, and hotels, where outdoor areas need to be functional and attractive year-round.

In architectural projects the solution is perfect for rooftop terraces, event spaces, and commercial developments, where solar control and design flexibility are essential.

“Meanwhile, for property owners considering a motorised retractable roofing system that combines aesthetic appeal, superior solar control, and unmatched durability, Bochini is the fabric of choice. Its features, from fire retardancy and waterproof performance to UV protection and blockout options, make it the perfect solution for both residential and commercial applications.”

Somfy

“Despite cost-of-living pressures, consumers are still investing in motorisation in both the renovation and new build space. Notably, there has been a strong trend towards motorised curtains which aligns with current interior design trends,” says Nicki Beggs, Product Marketing Executive for Somfy Oceania. 

She confirms that the market has grown in several categories, including curtains, screens, interior blinds and roller shutters. There is also an increase in consumer demand for connected living, served by Somfy’s TaHoma switch, which provides an easy home automation solution. 

 “In the past two years, there has continued to be a trend of end users taking on DIY projects. This has meant a growth in WireFree (battery) motors. The comprehensive offer from Somfy in RTS and Zigbee allows end users to maximise their project budgets and easily achieve their home décor dreams,” says Beggs. “Additionally, there has been a late-summer demand for external products that has kicked off 2025, as seen with screen and awnings projects and enquiries.” 

Specification and projects’ demand for motorisation remains strong, as asset owners and building occupants prioritise wellbeing, energy performance and sustainability. In the last 12 months, Somfy and its partners have delivered major projects, including Pitt Street Metro and significant commercial spaces.

Beggs confirms that Somfy’s most recent introduction is a complete and comfort-driven Smart Shading solution. The range features bi-directional motors, controls, and dedicated services tailored to support professionals in everything from integration to installation and maintenance. The offering is designed to provide a seamless and hassle-free experience for professionals while offering comfort and convenience for end users. 

Backed by an end-user campaign on 9NOW, YouTube, and social media, the offer has driven consumer demand, leading to direct retailer requests and enquiries through Somfy’s lead generation program for Somfy’s Retail Expert Partners. 

The introduction has seen strong early adoption from the market, especially from Somfy’s Retail Expert Partners. 

“With five WireFree motors, wired motors in three torques, a Glydea curtain module and receivers for motors and lighting, there is a solution for all types of applications. For controls, the award-winning Ysia remote controls provide a stylish and modern style featuring LED light for responsive feedback,” says Beggs. 

This comprehensive offer from Somfy provides benefits for users in all types of installations including connected solutions with TaHoma switch and app or voice control, or a stand alone setup where a remote is the users preferred way to control their blinds.

“The streamlined motorhead across the range allows for the same deductions for manufacturers with low light gaps when installed. The coordinated motor head covers, available in white, black or grey, provide a seamless finish at the window, complementing fabrics and brackets,” Beggs explains.

 “With a trend for darker colours on the window, the black accessories have proven popular as they provide a seamless finish between motor and bracket”. 

“The Smart Shading offer continues to grow with the introduction of the WireFree Li-ion Zigbee Solar Panel kit, designed for all Smart Shading battery motors, which can extend battery autonomy up to five years.”

The Smart Shading range creates an ecosystem of products that work seamlessly together, easing the integration process and increasing comfort for end users. 

“Users want the ability to centralise their home controls, including window coverings and connected equipment such as lighting and music. Bringing them together in one ecosystem from Somfy eases their daily routine and brings greater peace of mind. The new Smart Shading range enhances the home’s comfort, convenience and energy efficiency,” adds Beggs.

“Adding a touch of connectivity opens a world of possibilities, with TaHoma switch boasting compatibility with close to 300 types of Somfy products and major home equipment brands (such as Philips Hue, Sonos and Netatmo).”

The range includes the Izymo Motor Receiver, which utilises the same Zigbee 3.0 technology to easily upgrade existing Somfy WT motors (with mechanical limit switches) and connect seamlessly with the Somfy ecosystem. This allows 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.

The Somfy Smart Shading offer not only provides motorised solutions for window coverings but also varied options to extend the Zigbee radio range to suit the size and layout of the home’s ecosystem. Excitingly, the Somfy Smart Shading tubular motor and curtain module are compatible with the Apple Homekit. 

The Smart Shading offer is supported by Somfy’s professional tools in TaHoma suite, enhancing business efficiency, helping customers attract clients, and delivering proactive, value-added services.

Meanwhile Somfy’s hero motorisation product is still regarded as a market leader.

The Somfy Sonesse 40 motor sets the acoustic standard for the interior window covering market, providing the most whisper-quiet operation and a powerful lifting capacity. The demand for Sonesse 40 is such that the motor range has expanded in recent years, with options available in AC or battery in both RTS and the new Smart Shading offer on Zigbee 3.0, along with other protocols such as RS485. 

“Sonesse 40 is the standard for performance and silence,” says Beggs. “The manufacturing of a Sonesse motor follows a strict process, with 100% of the motors tested at the end of the production line. Any abnormal noise detected will result in the rejection of the motor. This is unique and differentiates Somfy from anything else on the market.  

“In addition to the outstanding acoustic performance and range of available protocols, the latest Sonesse 40 from our Smart Shading range on Zigbee 3.0 has been designed with additional aesthetic features for the minimisation of light gaps and a seamless finish at the window with motor head covers available in white, black or grey to coordinate with fabrics and brackets,” Beggs explains.

For exteriors, Somfy’s motorisation offer is robust and high-performing. Since its introduction in 2019 Somfy’s Maestria external screen solution has become a clear favourite among retailers, thanks to its smart obstacle detection technology that safeguards awning fabric. Featuring automatic limit setting modes and auto-learning to ensure self-tensioning, Maestria reduces the risk of costly warranty claims and call-out costs from fabric unspooling or jamming inside the headbox. This high-performance solution delivers peace of mind for consumers while offering long-term cost benefits for both retailers and end users.

Further supporting the growth in motorisation is the take-up of technologies like voice control and home automation systems. Almost every home now has a smart device or home assistant in regular use, whether it be Google Home, Amazon Echo, an Apple HomePod, or a more integrated solution such as Control4. The accessibility and ease of use have contributed to the increase in consumer demand for connectivity in the home, such as voice or app control for blinds and awnings. 

“The simplest way to manage your home’s energy efficiency is to set and forget,” she says. “With TaHoma switch, users can program window coverings to close at dusk during winter and keep the heat in before the temperature drops. Conversely, in summer, blinds can be programmed to lower at the hottest times of the day so the home stays cool, relieving pressure on the air conditioning system.

“In the TaHoma by Somfy application, there is a section called ‘My Energy’. This provides users with energy tips and consumption alerts to help users save money and reduce energy consumption. End users can set up parameters to conserve energy for products in the home, such as lighting. For example, if a connected light has been on for more than four hours, an alert will pop up on the end user’s phone and advise the light has been on, prompting them to take action. This app is designed with the user experience in mind, providing value beyond just controlling blinds and window coverings.”

The feature is compatible with third-party lights, including Philips Hue and Somfy’s Izymo On/Off Lighting Receiver. The receiver sits behind the wall switch, allowing users to convert their standard home lighting into a Zigbee smart lighting system, allowing bi-directional feedback and centralised control.

Beggs notes that another key factor affecting the market is the changing capability of battery performance.

“The new Somfy Smart Shading offer designed with manufacturers, retailers, installers and their end-users in mind, creating a seamless, comfort-driven ecosystem. All battery motors in the new range come with a USB-C charging port for fast charging capability (when charged with the Somfy fast charger), improving the charging experience. For instance, a Sonesse 28 Li-ion Zigbee motor is now able to be charged in 1.5 hours compared to a standard 6-hour charge previously, this further reduces the energy consumption for battery motors.

For sustainable and hassle-free charging, the newly launched WireFree Li-ion Zigbee Solar Panel further enhances efficiency of Smart Shading battery ranges.  “Designed with aesthetics and versatility at the forefront, it comes with an adjustable cable (50mm to 700mm), which can extend or retract for a neat finish at the window.”

“Additionally, the Smart Shading WireFree range is also supported by a comprehensive range of charging accessories to make the experience of recharging motors easier and quicker, including a rigid magnetic option that helps take the hassle out of charging hard-to-reach blinds.”

“Somfy WireFree Li-ion motors utilise advanced technology to monitor and manage the state of the Li-ion battery, thus preventing any possibility of overcharge and over-discharge. Somfy Li-ion technology is strenuously tested for this, along with thermal conditions, vibration, shock, short circuit, impact/crush to ensure long-lasting performance,” explains Beggs.

The Smart Shading motors also carry the Act For Green label which guarantees a minimum environmental impact for the product, as measured and controlled by an independent body. Motors in this range are also low-powered, with low consumption in sleep mode (in particular for the WireFree motors), providing extended battery life. This initiative is a top priority for Somfy, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030 (compared to 2019). 

Overall, the Somfy WireFree range of motors delivers exceptional versatility with two reliable technologies: RTS and Zigbee 3.0. The comprehensive range means there is a WireFree motor perfectly suited for any interior application. “The Somfy WireFree range includes powerful lifting capacity options and lasting performance. The whisper-quiet Sonesse 40 WireFree motor, with a robust 4Nm lifting capacity, confidently supports larger blinds, linked blinds, and tilting applications. With the Sonesse range of wireless motors and their premium accessories, you can expect an industry-leading level of silence throughout the WireFree range,” says Beggs.

“The Somfy WireFree range is designed to integrate seamlessly with the TaHoma switch and the TaHoma by Somfy app. This robust connectivity allows for effortless automation of daily tasks, including opening and closing blinds, presence simulation, timers, and more. Enjoy voice control integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for select products. Plus, users can stay informed with low battery alerts for Smart Shading WireFree motors.”

With a comprehensive range of motorisation and home automation solutions available in different technologies, Somfy provides a solution for all types of applications and user needs.