JUNE NEWSLETTER 2025
Highlights
Summer has officially started! Time to soak up the sunshine!
Here’s a round-up of exciting updates, highlights, team wins and competitor insights from across the business throughout June.
What’s Happening: Installations
Field Update from Rich Jones – A Month of Aventuras!
June has been full of adventure—from fitting out boats to navigating them to access properties, the team has been on the move. We’ve also seen a surge in commercial contracts being installed, many involving high-access work. A big reminder that safety always comes first—thank you for keeping that top of mind.
Behind the scenes, a lot of effort has gone into updating our survey paperwork to make things more efficient on site. This will be rolled out soon, along with a call to each Installer to walk through the changes and what’s needed on the new forms. A big thank you to Ian and Judy for their input and help in making the documents look sharp and professional.
It’s also been a pleasure to catch up with some of you this month and see the professional, courteous way you represent us on site. It truly makes a difference.
A Quick Reminder
As we move into the warmer months, please take care in the heat—especially when working in roofs. Stay hydrated and take regular breaks when you need them.
Uniform Update
Keep an eye out—new uniforms will be delivered next week along with your scheduled drop-offs. Looking forward to seeing you all looking sharp.
Quote of the Month
“Tough jobs don’t build character—they reveal it.”
Thank you again for everything you do. —Rich
Shout-outs this month: “Two of our newest Installers”
Jack Wesson successfully completed his first Duo Roller Lantern—only the second we’ve done in six years! The installation has been recorded for future training and will be uploaded to our OneDrive. Brilliant attention to detail, Jack, on a particularly complex job.
James Harforth, who joined us in January, is now out and about on his own and doing a fantastic job. He’s already tackled some difficult installs, including scaffolding setups and intricate shapes requiring templates. Great work, James!
Installation – Overcoming obstacles
We recently completed an installation, which on paper appeared to be straight forward, but the client had an idea, he hoped we could accommodate!
They had, had many issues with their existing install from a well-known nationwide blind supplier who had installed ‘semi-motorised’ blinds which moved via an electric screwdriver turning a drive rod. You did not read that incorrectly! After many failures – 4 return visits within a month to resolve – the client’s patience was exhausted, so they approached us.
On the surface of it, our proposal was for rectangular roof blinds on our Pure Quad system – so far so normal! Due to the presence of 2 automatic roof vents, we had planned the blinds to meet either side of the vent. Again, all quite standard, but the client asked on survey could we lower the fitting position of the blinds so that the blinds could pass under the vents and run the full drop. As it was a recess fit between the rafters, this wouldn’t be the normal way to proceed as the blinds would hang lower. Ryan looked at the space available and by positioning a lantern side channel, he was able to create a fixing point for the mounting profile, for the Pure motor rail, low enough that the blinds cleared the vents but stayed within the rafter thickness, meaning the blinds had minimal gaps.
Not only could we trump the competitor’s specification, but we also modified our usual working practises to address a client concern and provide a seamless fit.
Installation of the Month
‘Land Ahoy!’
With an address that starts as 28 The Island, you conjure up images of prestigious properties on secluded strips of land that are inaccessible by road. Well, you’d not be far from the truth with an installation that was completed this month, as it sits on an island in the Thames that can only be accessed by foot bridge.
Thankfully Ryan and Jack were not made to carry everything across the bridge or get their feet wet, as they were able to unload the blinds and tools on to a barge, so they could be transported across the water to the client’s property. A unique way of starting the job!
The installation was a combination of our Bauhaus profile Aspect 3 gable blinds and roller blinds, all fitted into preplanned recesses, so the blind is concealed when retracted, giving beautiful views across the Thames.
What’s Happening: Sales
Update from the Factory
Louvolite motors and remote controls have been discontinued.
There will be a new range coming out at an increased price so we will decide if we will continue using this option.
Sale of the Month
Steve had an enquiry from Scarborough Hill Country Inn, a beautiful boutique hotel and wedding venue set in the Norfolk Broads, looking for roof blinds for their existing wooden conservatory area.
The conservatory footprint allows for seating up to 60 people for various functions, so the client was looking for something that provides shade but also does not limit light. Our English Pinoleum was the solution, quoted in 201 Shaded White, which would be the perfect colour to compliment the décor and give a bright fresh finish.
The owners of the hotel agreed and proceeded with an order and some installation shots can be seen here. Look out for more pictures and videos coming soon to social media.
Such was their satisfaction they have asked Steve to quote for another hotel along the waterway in the Broads. Well done Steve.
June Reviews Showcase
We’ve had some great 5-star reviews from satisfied customers this month. Here are a few of the highlights:
“We were delighted with all aspects of the service we received from Specialist Blinds. Helpful, low-key and understanding quotation, prompt measuring service and detailed quotation, and exceptional care in fitting of the blinds. Excellent in every way – we hope to use this company again.” – Carolyn
“Good evening,
I am emailing to let you know how delighted I am with my blind installation. With the sunny weather, it hasn’t come a moment too soon!!
Jack did a great job of the installation, arriving punctually and completing the job with minimal disruption and mess. The difference that the blind has made to the comfort and temperature of the room is dramatic! It also looks very sleek and operates incredibly smoothly.
I am so glad that I contacted you when I did as it is clear that the blind is going to have a really positive impact on the comfort of my extension for many years to come.
Please convey my thanks to Aaron and also to Jack.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend your company to anyone looking for a similar installation. My builder popped round yesterday and was also super impressed with your product. I have no doubt that he too will be recommending it to his clients and I will be more than happy for his clients to come and view my installation.” – Nicola
“Delighted with the work carried out by Specialist Blinds. Initially met with Arnaud, who showed us the extensive range of blinds available to us. He was very professional and knowledgeable. We were very fortunate in that one of the colour options available to us was Pearl Mouse Grey, which happened to be the exact colour of our bifold doors. Lex came a week or so later to measure up and then returned a couple of weeks after that to fix the blinds. He was so meticulous in every thing he They look great. Arnaud and Lex could not have done a better job. We are delighted with Specialist Blinds.“
– Haslehurst
Spotlight on Innovation
“All aboard!”
We at Specialist Blinds know we can achieve shapes and sizes that other manufacturers can’t, the name above the door says it all, but once in while we come across something that isn’t overly big or oddly shaped but is still unusual so needs a unique solution.
The Sidings At Carriages Restaurant called upon us to specify blinds for their main restaurant entrance and their café and farm shop, which are inside two beautifully restored 1970’s train carriages. With the windows being very wide and having a deep curved recess we had to look at surface mounting the blinds. This posed the problem of creating a fixing point on the carriage wall that was both discrete and didn’t distract from the stunning interior but was also robust enough to ensure a secure fixing. With the proximity of diners seated next to the window we also had some concerns regarding safety.
The factory sourced a special bracket which enabled the ‘foot’ of the button fit blind to be secured and the contoured shape of the bracket appeased our concerns regarding safety. After discussions with the Facilities Manager at Carriages, to explain how we can provide a solution and sending a physical sample for approval, we had a way forward and the job went ahead and unlike most train journeys from the 70’s we arrived on time!
The blinds blend in seamlessly with the surroundings and provide the perfect shading solution for the diners as noted by the Facilities Manager – “We’re so pleased with the blinds. They’ve made such a difference to our guests’ comfort while dining with us. Thank you again!”
Competitor Watch
We pride ourselves on simply being better than our competitors and Martin completed an installation where this is obvious for all to see.
The Brief – Blinds for gable windows installed at height. The location was a bedroom so dimout fabrics were required.
Existing blinds fitted were a single pleat, roof style gable, pulling up from the bottom. The cord holes in the single pleat fabric meant that the fabric simply did not provide a room darkening scenario and when the blind was retracted 13 cords/wires were visible and obscured the view.
The Solution – Our Aspect 3 Bauhaus blinds with Pure Power 40 motors.
The pitch of the headrail is quite steep, but we could overcome any issues with fabric support at the apex by adding an additional interim rail in a complimentary finish. Another finishing touch was to hard wire the power supply directly to the Pure Power motors, so that client no longer needed a white transformer box, as a wall feature, to see each day!
Click on the video below to see the before and after side by side:
Drag the slider left or right to see the blinds retracted or extended:
What’s Happening: Marketing
Google SEO Projects (Search Engine Optimisation)
We’re embarking on a couple of new projects to help with our Google rankings.
As we’ve mentioned before, Google’s algorithms are constantly changing. As well as the usual challenges of us competing with Sponsored links and online shopping sites (which are always at the top of Google’s results), Google is now also favouring AI Overviews at the top of results.
Here’s a couple of examples of the search results for ‘Are thermal conservatory blinds any good?’. For a search on a PC, you’ll see we have top results on the right-hand side for both websites:
You get slightly different results on a mobile, with results just showing our article on the CB website.
As you can imagine there are hundreds of relevant questions for our products, so we’re working to prioritise the most popular questions.
In addition, Google also highlights questions in a ‘People also ask…’ section.
Here’s an example when searching for ‘lantern roof blinds’:
We’ve always included these types of questions as part of our Google SEO strategy, but we are currently working through a HUGE research document to ensure that our websites answer these questions for Google to pick up.
Marketing Team
We have been working with three external consultants for 6-12 months now, mostly focusing on our social media, the website revamp and SEO to improve our organic results in search engines. Jesse has now left the company, so his responsibilities are being absorbed by the rest of the team here as well as our external consultants to ensure continuity in our marketing strategy.
Socials – Viral Video
Thank you to Martin for this stunning video.
Views = 547k 👁️
Likes = 6.5K ❤️
Comments = 61 🗨️
Love this comment from an existing customer…
BBSA News
As you are all aware, this month we are in the process of reaccrediting our BBSA members’ ID cards. We take this opportunity to highlight the importance of our membership and the pride we have in being part of this esteemed organisation.
What is the BBSA?
The British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) is the only trade body representing companies involved in blinds, shutters, and awnings across the UK. Established over a century ago, its mission is to uphold high industry standards and promote fair trading practices. Specialist Blinds has been a proud BBSA member since 2002, reflecting our commitment to providing only premium, safe, and reliable blinds. We have greatly benefited from the association’s resources, including industry updates, research materials and training opportunities.
Why Choose a BBSA Certified Business?
Membership in the BBSA demonstrates a company’s dedication to delivering superior quality products, exceptional customer service, and current industry knowledge. To become accredited, companies must undergo strict vetting processes to verify they meet high professional standards. Reaccreditation occurs annually, ensuring members consistently uphold these standards. All accredited companies are required to follow the BBSA Code of Conduct and have access to the latest industry guidance, safety updates, and product regulations.
The BBSA provides customers with confidence that its members are:
• Fully insured
• Focused on child safety
• Knowledgeable about current regulations and best practices
• Compliant with the BBSA Code of Conduct
• Annually reaccredited
Once accepted, members pledge to follow the BBSA’s Code of Practice, which encompasses ethical standards, fair trading, quality of service and workmanship, safety, and ongoing training. In the rare event of a dispute, customers can access BBSA’s mediation services for a fair resolution.
These rigorous standards give customers peace of mind, knowing that BBSA accredited companies will deliver high-quality products and exceptional service.
Prioritising Safety
Specialist Blinds supports the BBSA’s Make it Safe initiative, launched in 2009 to prioritise the safety of children and vulnerable individuals in both domestic and commercial settings. We are committed to supplying only child-safe blinds, ensuring all products meet UK safety standards. Choosing a BBSA member guarantees that your blinds, shutters, or awnings are installed with safety at the forefront.
Championing Environmental Responsibility
The BBSA actively promotes sustainability and invests in research and development to help members improve their eco-friendly practices. Their Shade IT campaign, for example, conducts independent research into how solar shading technologies can enhance energy efficiency in homes and businesses.
By leveraging these findings, Specialist Blinds and other members can offer sustainable products that aid in insulating buildings during winter and providing shade in summer, benefitting both the environment and consumers.
BBSA’s Tribute to Appeal Home Shading Boss
Michael Madigan, executive chairman of Appeal Home Shading, sadly died following a motoring accident earlier this year.
Known to his friends as Mike, he was a well-known figure in the shading industry and had led Appeal’s board of directors since 1998, growing the business into a successful national brand.
His colleague, Appeal finance director, Peter French, told Openings: “Mike’s foresight means that despite our inevitable sorrow and grief, the company is in a strong financial position and arrangements are in place to ensure the management succession is assured.”
“The directors intend to guide Appeal forward with the same clear business ethics and professionalism that Mike showed us.”
Mike leaves behind his wife Jane and children Christopher, Tara and Suzy, all of whom have worked within the company.
Staff News
How long have you been with Specialist Blinds?
5 and a half years
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Helping people to resolve simple issues with their blinds
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Worked on a dairy farm for 18 years, milking cows, artificial insemination, calving, feeding, vet work, foot trimming, tractor driving and on one farm driving a dumper truck (great motorised large wheel barrow) and everything else to do with the job.
Tea or coffee?
Lots of tea
One thing on your bucket list?
A trip to the arctic circle
If you could swap jobs with anyone else in the business for a day, who would it be and why?
Cheryl Ede, to see how a day in the life of a Operations Director and how different the phone calls are to answering customers queries.
Favourite quote or saying?
(Ffs🤣)Who wants a cup of tea?!
June Birthday Celebrations
Happy Birthday to all our wonderful colleagues who celebrated their birthdays in June! Wishing you a fantastic year ahead filled with happiness, success, and good health. Here’s to many more celebrations! 🎉🥳
Happy belated birthday to
Krzysztof Stefankiewicz! 🎉🍰
Sorry, we missed your Birthday in May.
Specialist Blinds Staff Blog 