Sun ‘block’ leaves rivals in the shade

Mar 21 2008 by Henryk Zientek, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

A COMPANY supplying blinds is leaving its rivals in the shade with its latest product.

Lockwood-based Swift Blinds has stacked up orders and enquiries for its Shadeshield solar control film blinds following its appearance at the British Blind and Shutter Association’s Showcase 2008 held at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

The transparent film is proving popular for offices because, when fitted to windows, it can reduce glare from the sun and reflects solar heat away from the building – helping keep staff cool during the summer while giving them a clear view of the outside world.

The film also blocks 95% of UV radiation – making it ideal for protecting window displays.

Swift director David Roebuck said: “We are one of very few companies in the country to manufacture this product. It reflects a high percentage of glare and solar heat and plays a part in helping businesses reduce CO2 emissions.”

Swift was one of the leading companies among more than 50 exhibitors at the Showcase 2008 event. The company’s joint managing director Chris Swift is this year’s president of industry body the British Blind and Shutter Association.

Said Mr Roebuck: “The show was busier than we expected. We are now in the process of following up trade leads from the event. We have already taken orders as a result of the event.”

Showcase 2008 also highlighted how the BBSA is taking the lead in promoting environmentally-friendly products to help customers cut heating bills and emissions and encouraging specifiers and architects to regard blinds as more than decoration.

Said Mr Roebuck: “The whole idea is to show the industry the benefits of making window blinds part of the integral architecture of the building rather than as an afterthought.”

Solar control film blinds were specified for new government buildings in Scotland and also feature at the office of Kellogs in Manchester. Flame retardent film is also being produced for such buildings as hospitals, schools and colleges.