System update

Norman

Norman’s Soluna range has “revolutionised the humble roller blind”, says Norman General Manager Brandon Rigby.

“Gone are the days of a basic roller blind that let in almost as much light as it blocked,” he explains. “Norman’s Soluna roller shades took the type of roller everyone wished they had and made it a reality, from light guard which allows you to offer the best lightblocking roller shade in the market to a range of fascias that lift the look of the window covering by hiding the roll in a seamlessly integrated way. Add in the lift systems like our Certified Best for Kids system known as Precision Lift and the semi-automated system Smart Release and you have all the makings of a roller blind that is industry leading in both looks and design.”

“Precison Lift is a must have in any child’s bedroom. This system has won many awards for being one of the safest options when it comes to window coverings in a child bedroom. The complete lack of a hanging, looped chain means that parents have peace of mind at all times regardless of when they are in the house.” 

“SmartRelease allows you to walk past your roller shade, lightly pull the back of the loop and the shades lower themselves. Your customers will love the efficient way of controlling these shades.”

Shaw

Ben Hayek, Head of Division, Shaw Performance Hardware, confirms Shaw customers continue to benefit from the company’s cost effective Roller Blind System solution, designed with interchangeable components to reduce stock holding. 

Hayek says the system’s success lies in the fact that it is designed and developed in conjunction with Shaw’s specialist customers, for the Australian blind industry.

“It is available with 1:1 and 1:1.5 open and closed control mechanisms suitable for 38 and 43mm diameter tubes. The design smarts behind the middle joint system enables a driven or non-driven solution with the use of one component, thus minimising inventory. Double brackets are available for all applications along with neat single and double bracket covers. 

“All components have colour options of white, black, grey and cream, while oval and flat bottom rail options are the most recently added components to the Shaw system.”

Hayek adds that other features of the range include an extensive operating chain offer, multi length colour coded to match the hardware or stainless steel and metal also available. 

“Child safety has not been overlooked in Shaw’s offer with a comprehensive range of chain anchors where both face fit and reveal options are covered,” he adds. “The choice of aluminium tubes sizes from 38mm through to a heavy duty 43mm being available in a taped or un-taped version gives the manufacturer flexibility to suit their requirements. 

“Roller components provide Shaw’s manufacturing customers with a complete roller blind solution, where hardware compliments our extensive fabric offer. All hardware is stocked locally and despatched via a network of distribution centres in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, WA and New Zealand.” 

Hayek says roller blinds are currently leading the market commercially and residentially, with homeowners continuing to work from home post Covid19. 

“Consumers are looking at their homes with fresh eyes, as multi-functional spaces. There are pressures from increasing energy prices, and an increase in second homes which need furnishing. All the factors create a need for a durable, aesthetically pleasing window furnishing to control light and heat control at an affordable price.” 

“Shaw’s team of dedicated hardware BDMs are working closely with our extensive and knowledgeable customer base, to expand their hardware offer in a collaborative manner. Their goal is to always maintain Shaw’s precedence of high-quality products to the window furnishing Industry and uphold our second to none service model.” 

Rollease Acmeda

Rollease Acmeda is expanding on its RB09 chain control range to encompass a suite of solutions, with the recently released RB09 Winder with Guide. The new release is designed for dual shades using Slim Profile double brackets. It pairs with the original RB09 winder, streamlining manufacturing with consistent deductions across the range. The RB09 with Guide is supplied in a fixed position but can easily be converted to a swivel configuration if required. The swivel option reduces noise and effort when operating at an angle, making it ideal for hard-to-reach blinds. Next year the range will also feature an engineered RB09 Geared Winder that significantly reduces user effort along with a geared chain-guided version for dual shades. 

“The medium roller shade category was enhanced by the addition of a new S45 to S60 adaptor earlier this year, presenting a more economical solution for blinds up to 3.4 metres wide.  

In 2024 we will expand our child safe solutions including an Automate Basics motorisation option offering essential functionality at an accessible price point.

BM Blinds

Michelle Macready, Sales Manager at BM Blinds, says the company continues to offer a key point of difference in terms of reliable, quality products. “When you are choosing roller blinds for your client’s home, you want to be sure that you are choosing a product that offers quality, service, and excellence.”

“A roller blind made by BM Blinds is fully assembled locally and proudly displays the “Australian Made” logo. Each blind is custom made using the quality Australian design SunBoss roller blind system. This range offers a unique modular system known for its reliability, smoothness, quietness, and lightness of operation.

“The chain mechanism uses a direct drive and can be geared for larger blinds. The typical old noisy and cumbersome chain guard has been redesigned for a smoother, quieter operation.

“Further, the chain mechanisms are engineered using UV stabilised glass-filled nylon and housed inside the mechanism are multiple springs with a square profile. This means very little effort is required to raise and lower your blind for many years to come. 

“If end users would prefer, they can do away with chains completely and simply press a button on a remote to operate the blinds. A motor can be placed within the roller blind that can be wired, battery operated or even solar powered using a variety of trust motor brands including Alpha and Somfy.

“The chain mechanisms and pin ends have been redesigned to extend deeper into the tube for a robust and durable fit. The tube has been designed with additional reinforcement with increased wall thickness. This guarantees a smooth finish for the blind and helps prevent tube deflection, giving the blind fabric a smooth appearance.

“Even the exclusive elegant base rail offered by BM Blinds is designed in Australia and is perfectly weighted, creating a streamlined and modern look. This rail can be matched to any fabric selection with a decorator fabric insert or fitted with a noise buffer on the back, making clanging rails a thing of the past.”

“If you would prefer a hemmed pocket to finish off your client’s blind, this is also available for a minimal look. All brackets are universal and can accept the chain end, pin end or a combination of both, making installation quick and simple. The brackets are designed to minimise light gaps, improve functionality and provide a clean sleek look.

“If you are after linked blinds, fascia, or fully enclosed cassette with side channels, the Sunboss system offers a variety of options to suit your clients’ requirements.” 

“Combine any of these systems with industry leading fabrics that offer screen, sheer or blockout fabric options for the ultimate in roller blinds.Backed by a 5-year warranty, Roller Blinds purchased from BM Blinds offer the peace of mind that comes with shopping locally and supporting Australian wholesale manufacturing businesses.”

Blinds by Peter Meyer

Blinds by Peter Meyer has introduced exciting additions to the Australian market, the Silent Gliss Heavy Duty Roller Blind systems SG 4930 and SG 4970. 

“These planetary geared side winders have redefined the roller blind game with their Swiss-engineered precision and unbeatable quality,” says Managing Director Simon Meyer.

“Silent Gliss, a name synonymous with technical excellence in the world of window coverings, has been renowned for its Swiss-engineered Roller Blind systems. However, their premium price point has made them a distant dream for many Australian customers. Fortunately, Blinds by Peter Meyer has changed the game by manufacturing these top-tier products in Australia, making them more accessible to local customers.

“Both the chain-operated SG 4930 and motorised SG 4970 Roller Blind systems from Silent Gliss are more than just functional; they are a marriage of aesthetics and functionality. Their sleek and modern design, adorned with on-trend hardware colours, seamlessly integrates into any decor.”

“The standout feature of these Roller Blind systems is their smooth and silent operation, and this dedication to quiet functionality has earned them the prestigious Quiet Mark certification. Thanks to the unique planetary gear, these blinds glide effortlessly without a hint of noise or slippage, serving as a testament to the Swiss engineering prowess that Silent Gliss is known for.”

“You can customise the look of your Roller Blinds with the choice of componentry in black or white. Moreover, the bottom rails come in various colours, allowing you to match your blinds to your interior perfectly. The sleek design of the brackets adds an extra touch of elegance, with bracket end covers and unique bracket feet covers that ensure no visible installation screws, preserving the aesthetics of your space.”

Meyer says that one of the most remarkable features of these Roller Blind systems is their size. They can be supplied in dimensions of up to 3.4 metres in width and 5 metres in drop. Need even wider coverage? You can link up to two 3.4-metre-wide systems to achieve an astounding overall width of 6.8 metres, making them ideal for large windows and open spaces.

The chain-operated SG 4930 Roller Blind system is designed for seamless operation, even at maximum dimensions. This means that whether you have a small window or a grandiose glass wall, the Silent Gliss Roller Blinds will deliver consistent, smooth performance.

“The motorised Roller Blind SG 4970 takes convenience to the next level with virtually silent operation and programmable intermediate stops. It can be controlled via mains switch or radio remote control, and it’s also compatible with home automation systems. The Silent Gliss series 20 motor boasts an obstacle detection function, ensuring the protection of blinds.”

“To expand the functionality of these heavy-duty systems, Blinds by Pete Meyer has developed integration componentry, allowing the use of Somfy Sonesse motors. This opens up a world of possibilities for integrating your blinds with smart home systems and automation, making them not just window coverings but a part of your connected lifestyle.”

“The Roller Blind market in Australia is witnessing unprecedented growth and Silent Gliss Roller Blinds by Blinds by Peter Meyer fill a gap where other options fall short, especially when it comes to covering wide expanses. Paired with the Colorama 2 fabric, which is available at a width of 3.4 metres, you can now achieve a beautiful and seamless solution without needing to turn fabrics.”

“The Silent Gliss Roller Blind systems SG 4930 and SG 4970 represent a unique and exclusive addition to the Australian market,” says Meyer. “Their Swiss-engineered excellence, coupled with the craftsmanship of Blinds by Pete Meyer, ensures that customers can now enjoy high-quality Roller Blinds that are both technically advanced and visually stunning. With silent operation, customisable features and integration capabilities, these Roller Blinds are not just window coverings but a premium lifestyle choice for those who demand the best.”