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Ian Short, Managing Director of Uni-Blinds ® integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass
In a digital age where information and advice is available to us whenever and wherever we want it, consumers have become far more savvy when it comes to making purchasing decisions. That means anyone providing products and services has to be at the top of their game to attract interest and secure orders.
One of the stand-out findings in the latest industry trends report published by Keystone is something that the most successful businesses in our
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sector have known for a long time – that when it comes to buying windows and doors, cost is just one consideration which, in many cases, is balanced with quality, style, availability and service.
What is interesting is that the appeal of quality products capable of delivering long term value is stronger in the younger age groups, who seem more in tune with maximising the lifespan and value of the windows and doors they are investing in.
That sets the scene for quality to be in ever greater demand in 2026 and beyond, presenting valuable sales opportunities for fabricators and installers who align themselves with companies like Morley Glass offering
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premium products. We have always focused on providing solutions that combine functional reliability, aesthetics and longevity, to provide the best long term value, and that is becoming increasingly sought after by consumers.
More design-conscious customers
Another trend that’ s likely to continue in 2026 is more buyers looking to tailor their windows and doors, both from a practical perspective and to fit with the style and décor of a property.
As a result of our long term marketing campaigns, awareness of integral blinds is higher than ever, which means
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more window and door buyers are likely to be considering these as an upgrade – possibly even before they approach installers to request quotes. So, if you are an installer not currently offering integral blinds, there are important growth opportunities here, particularly if you register to become a Morley Glass Trade Partner.
Last year, we fulfilled an increasing number of orders of our Uni-Blinds ® integral blinds in colours other than the standards, particularly Agate Grey( S120) and Black( B160), reflecting the popularity of contemporary colours and a growing awareness that windows and doors can be tailored in this way.
The introduction of six new colours for our slimline SL16 integral blind for 24mm IGUs recently has broadened the potential for contemporary colours even further, especially in projects where the frames can be retained and an IGU replacement is possible. This upgrade option may be favoured by some homeowners who are undertaking thoughtful renovation projects where they are focused on ensuring the windows and doors make their home more practical, useable and comfortable.
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Energy saving remains hot topic
A final priority list topper for window and door buyers in 2026 is undoubtedly going to be energy efficiency. Cutting energy use by reducing how much heat is lost through leaky, poorly insulating windows and doors continues to be one of the main drivers for property owners to undertake replacement work, so it is important for installers to ensure their offer can meet ever higher expectations.
Hence why the make-up of the IGU is so important, particularly where integral blind units are concerned. If you are offering integral blinds, take a close look at the glass and the option for upgraded performance. Uni-Blinds ® IGUs, for example, are made as standard using high quality low-e glass, but they can also be manufactured using Planitherm One glass for homeowners who are prepared to maximise thermal insulation for longer term value.
It is also worth noting that integral blinds can make an important contribution to enhancing the thermal insulation of windows and doors by helping to block heat loss through the glass. And this works in reverse too, cutting the solar gain during sunnier times of the year which helps to reduce the risk of overheating within the home.
www. morleyglass. co. uk
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