The sun protection and roller shutter industry is in a state of flux. Where the industry once revolved primarily around functional solutions against sun and heat, today we see that the playing field is much broader. New challenges and opportunities await in the coming year. Smart technology, sustainability, safety and design are playing an increasingly important role.
In this article, therefore, we discuss four key developments that will shape the industry. What do these trends mean for your profession and how can you - as a passionate and entrepreneurial trade - prepare for the future?
Blinds that lower themselves up or down depending on the position of the sun? Shutters that you can control from your vacation address with an app? For many consumers - your customers, that is - this was still science fiction a few years ago, but now it is becoming more commonplace. Smart technology is fast becoming a standard part of our daily lives. And that includes blinds and shutters.
The world is digitizing rapidly, and consumers expect their homes to keep up with it. Today, a smart thermostat or app-controlled lighting is almost as natural as an Internet connection. The same goes for blinds and shutters. Smart systems make people's lives easier AND they contribute to energy savings by automatically responding to weather conditions.For many consumers, convenience and comfort are the main reasons for investing in smart blinds. They no longer have to manually operate their blinds or close their shutters - the technology does that for them. There is also an increasing focus on energy savings. Blinds that automatically lower at the right times can keep the temperature in the home comfortable, which in turn saves on energy bills.
For you as a specialist dealer, it is therefore wise to respond to the demand for smart products. This requires not only an adapted assortment, but also a good knowledge of these systems. Customers not only expect you to sell them the right product, but also that you can advise them on how to install and use it. Moreover, this provides opportunities to offer additional service, for example, by selling installations and maintenance of these systems as a service. It pays to specialize in this. The demand for smart home solutions will only continue to grow in the coming years, and blinds and shutters are increasingly seen as an important part of the smart home. Customers you can convince of the benefits of smart technology will be more willing to opt for an advanced solution.
Sustainability is a word we have been hearing for years, but in 2025 it is no longer a trend: it is simply the norm. Consumers are becoming more critical; they want to know where their products come from and what impact they have on the environment. Sustainability is also playing an increasing role in the awning and roller shutter industry.
Climate change, stricter environmental regulations and growing consumer awareness mean that sustainable products are no longer a luxury, but a necessity. More and more customers want to know whether the blinds or shutters they purchase are made from recycled materials, whether they contribute to energy savings and how long they last. Blinds and shutters can play an important role in lowering energy bills. Using the right materials and systems can keep a home cool in the summer and better insulated in the winter. This not only saves in energy costs, but also helps reduce CO2 emissions.
You will understand that it is more important than ever to respond to this demand for sustainability. This means not only adapting your product range, but also being able to properly inform your customers about the sustainable aspects of your products. How do these sunscreens contribute to energy savings? Are materials used that are less harmful to the environment? And how long will the product last? Customers expect you to be able to answer these questions. In addition, sustainability offers opportunities. Consumers are willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. By telling the right story, you can convince your customers to choose sustainable solutions, even if they are slightly more expensive than conventional products. Moreover, you can consider recycling programs, taking back and reusing old products.
It will not have escaped your notice: consumers have questions about security and privacy. You too know that shutters, for example, are no longer used only as sun protection, but also as security. More and more consumers see this product group as a way to protect their homes from burglary and prying eyes. Security and privacy are becoming important issues, especially in urban areas.
At a time when privacy is under increasing pressure, people are looking for ways to better protect their homes and their personal lives. Roller shutters offer an effective solution: they not only keep out sunlight, but also provide additional security against burglary. In addition, they prevent passersby from simply looking in, providing extra privacy. This trend is reinforced by the emergence of smart technologies. Roller shutters that close automatically when the occupants are not home or that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone not only make life easier, but also safer.
For you as a specialist retailer, this means that you can point out to your customers the added benefits of shutters. Not only do they offer protection from the sun, but they can also contribute to the security of their home. By investing in shutters with smart security options, such as automatic closing systems or reinforced slats, you can offer your customers a versatile product. It pays to partner with manufacturers who offer innovative security solutions. In addition, you can advise your customers on the installation of these systems so they can take full advantage of the security and privacy benefits. Also consider partnering with security companies to offer complete packages that include both shading and security.
In the past, people chose blinds or shutters primarily because of their functio- tion.
nality. We mentioned it at the beginning of this article. Today, however, consumers want much more. Awnings should not only keep out the sun, but also contribute to the appearance of a home. Yep ... it's okay to give the neighbors some jealous looks! Aesthetics are therefore becoming increasingly important, and customers are therefore looking for products that are both functional and beautiful.
The home has become the extension of the occupants' personal style. People pay a lot of attention to the interior and the ex
terior of their homes, and blinds and shutters have become an important part of that. Customers want products that match the style of their home and contribute to its appearance. Exactly this aspect has become more relevant especially since the corona period. People became more aware than ever of what they actually have or don't have at home. During the lockdowns, people sat in their homes every day and the conclusion was quickly drawn: it could be nicer! Customization plays a big role. More and more consumers want the opportunity to put together their blinds or shutters completely according to their own wishes. From the color and material to the finish. Everything must fit the home and the customer's taste perfectly. It's really that simple.
Every enterprising trade specialist with his or her own business, serving consumers, knows that the demand for customization and design must therefore be met. This presents great opportunities, as customers are willing to pay more for products that meet their exact needs. It is important to work with manufacturers who are flexible in their production processes so that you can offer your customers customization. In addition, it pays to invest in a showroom where customers can view and compare the various options. Giving customers the opportunity to actively participate in the design of their blinds or shutters not only creates more involvement, but also ensures that they receive a product that perfectly suits their needs. Also, be sure to keep in mind the development of Artificial Intelligence. Perhaps not yet in 2025 but certainly in 2026, consumers will walk into your home with an AI-developed re-design of their own home, including the blinds. And then simply ask, "This is what we want. Take care of that."