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Five member businesses were recognised across five categories at the WSAA’s first Industry Awards, held at the association’s Gala Dinner on the Gold Coast.
The WSAA has named the winners of its inaugural Industry Awards, recognising five member businesses across five categories at the association’s Gala Dinner at The Star, Gold Coast, on 11 June.
The awards drew a strong field of finalists, with judges noting that the quality of submissions made every decision a genuine contest. Comedian Dave Hughes hosted the evening as MC.
WSAA CEO Wesley Fawaz said the awards mark a new chapter for the association. “This industry has always had businesses doing exceptional work. The WSAA Industry Awards exist to put a spotlight on that work, and to set a standard that others can aspire to. We’re proud to recognise our inaugural winners, and we look forward to building on this.”
Community Impact Award: Ricky Richards
The Community Impact Award recognises members who go beyond business as usual to deliver lasting benefit to the communities and causes they support. Ricky Richards was recognised for nearly three decades of commitment to children’s hospitals, skin cancer research, and community health, with total charitable contributions now surpassing $500,000 across three long-term partnerships. The judges noted the company gives consistently rather than opportunistically, and has built a culture around it.
Product Sustainability Award: Louvolite
The Product Sustainability Award recognises members that demonstrate a reduction in environmental impact through the design, manufacture, or delivery of a window shading product. Louvolite’s Carnival fabric range is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester yarn sourced from post-consumer PET bottles, manufactured at a facility holding OEKO-TEX STeP certification, one of the most rigorous standards in global textile production.
Product Innovation Award: Louvretec Australia
The Product Innovation Award recognises a newly launched product that demonstrates originality and market relevance. Louvretec’s 220/45 Alpine Blade addresses a long-standing frustration for architects working on multi-roof outdoor living projects: the inability to specify a single blade consistently across both opening and retractable roof systems. The company says the blade delivers design cohesion that was not previously possible, and it has earned endorsement from leading architects since its January 2025 release.
Wholesale Manufacturing Excellence Award: Verosol
The Wholesale Manufacturing Excellence Award recognises members that combine product quality with leadership in innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and operational performance. Verosol’s credentials include a solar-powered facility, Global GreenTag certified products, a zero-landfill commitment, and a less than one per cent error rate across operations. The company was also recognised for an end-to-end model that supports clients from specification through to installation and ongoing service.
Independent Retailer Award: Delux Blinds
The Independent Retailer Award honours an outstanding independently owned and operated window shading business that demonstrates strong business acumen, an authentic brand identity, and a focus on customer experience, without the backing of a franchise or national brand. Delux Blinds has grown from a two-person home operation to a purpose-built facility, showroom, and team of eight in Vermont, Victoria. The business holds more than 200 Google reviews averaging a perfect five stars.
SuperExpo 2026 Best Stand Awards
With more than 100 exhibitors on the SuperExpo 2026 floor, the Best Stand Awards recognised displays that went beyond visual appeal to deliver purposeful, memorable experiences. Pinz took out Best Small Stand, while Somfy claimed Best Large Stand.
The WSAA congratulated all five inaugural Industry Award winners, along with Pinz and Somfy on their SuperExpo 2026 Best Stand recognition.
