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The Australian Window Furnishings industry now has a set of internationally trademarked Qualified Logos that recognise businesses whose employees and contractors have met independent qualification standards – including for example the MSF30919 Certificate III in Blinds, Awnings, Security Screens, and Grilles.
The internationally trademarked Qualified Logos have been developed by The Frontline Group, the organisation well-known by many businesses throughout the window furnishings industry for its training and industry support initiatives.
Director of The Frontline Group, Steve Quirk, told WFA logos have been created in direct response to industry demand. That demand was for a simple way to identify businesses with a high proportion of staff who have met independent qualification standards, including the Certificate III.
“The need for a certification system was first addressed during the Window Furnishings Industry Summit in May 2017, when businesses from across the industry gathered to discuss our industry’s development priorities,” Quirk said.
“This consultation, which ultimately involved over 110 businesses, resulted in the creation of the 5-Year Training and Development Plan for the Window Furnishing Industry 2017-2022. One of the key outcomes was the call for businesses to have a way to publicly demonstrate their commitment to quality through certification.”
“A subsequent Industry Summit in April 2023 to create a second 5 Year Training Plan 2023 – 2028, focused on evaluating progress, and while the uptake of training and skill development had been strong, there remained a significant gap. The need for a certification scheme that recognised businesses for their quality and adherence to independent standards, including using quality materials, employing certified tradespeople, and maintaining high product standards.”
Quirk said the new logos are more than just a certificate.
“These logos represent trust, reliability, and a dedication to quality. They offer reassurance to customers, signalling that they are working with qualified professionals who uphold the highest standards.”
“Our Window Furnishings Industry meets demands that require a wide range of skill and knowledge. Meeting independent qualification standards of excellence including the Certificate III is a significant milestone formally demonstrating a business’s commitment to excellence and expertise. The new Qualified Logos symbolise this achievement, serving as a mark of professionalism and a strong adherence to industry standards.”
“As more businesses achieve independent certification, it is important to have a symbol that clearly communicates this expertise. The new logos are designed to be displayed with pride on business cards, marketing materials, websites, and even on vehicles or physical signage. With a clean, modern design and a refined colour palette, the logo offers both timelessness and adaptability, ensuring that it looks professional across all platforms”
Quirk added that these new logos are not just a visual upgrade; they reflect the growth of the industry.
“Having personnel complete and meet independent qualification standards including the Certificate III ensures that window furnishings businesses are ready to meet today’s customer demands with expert advice, quality installations, and exceptional service.”
“These logos address a longstanding priority voiced by the industry over seven years and help boost the industry’s reputation, instilling confidence in customers when choosing certified professionals for their window furnishing and screen needs.”
“Investing in people and building a legacy is essential for any business aiming for long-term success, growth, and trust; by focusing on employee development and certifications including the Certificate III, businesses in our industry can improve their reputation, attract, recruit and retain top talent, and stay competitive. This investment in people not only drives innovation but also strengthens the industry as a whole. It helps create a culture of excellence that builds customer loyalty and leaves a lasting impact.”
COMMENTS FROM INDUSTRY BACK QUALIFIED LOGOS
“It’s great to know we are the first business in our area with qualified staff, we will be using this logo in all our advertising, on our vehicles and on our uniforms.”
Design, sales and installation business – Darling Downs, Queensland
“We value learning, training, and development as key aspects of our success and of who we are. The introduction of certification in Queensland, NSW and Victoria has been a successful journey for us. We look forward to its expansion throughout the industry and throughout Australia.”
Manufacturer, Queensland, NSW, Victoria
“Getting certified has had a positive impact through gradual change instead of rapid, making it more sustainable. Our biggest benefit was in customer service through better technical knowledge from all staff and understanding customer needs.”
Design, sales, and installation business, Mulgrave, NSW
“Certification is vital to our training of new and existing staff, and vital for the industry.”
Manufacturing and supply security screens business, Yandina, Queensland
“We feel this certification is a major important step forward in our industry; not only does it express our relentless desire to learn and improve as a business, but it also showcases our commitment to our most important asset, our customers.”
Design, sales and installation business, Maddingly, Victoria
