Press Release
No. 6
26 March 2014
R+T Stuttgart shows the prospects for development trends:
Water-proof awning systems are increasingly popular
The new sector solutions for roller shutters, doors/gates and sun protection
systems are presented every three years at R+T in Stuttgart. The trade fair
organiser has already listened around and gives a preview of what trends for
awnings the visitors can expect next year. The trend is definitely towards
weather-proof systems.
The terrace as additional living space with all possible comforts – Many awning
manufacturers are following this trend with their development of new solutions.
This means that the function of awnings is not only to protect from the sun, but
also against the rain. One of the greatest challenges for weather-proof systems is
the exposure to strong winds. This is also confirmed by Jürgen Schulz, Managing
director of the Augsburg awning manufacturer Leiner GmbH: "The trend is
towards awnings that can be used in almost all kinds of weather. For very windy
places, stable folding terrace roofs are in great demand. Water-proof PVC fabrics
as awning material are required here."
With regard to the systems' durability, the manner in which the materials are
joined together also plays an important role. Martin Troyer, Managing Director of
Hella Sonnen- und Wetterschutztechnik GmbH, explains: "Water-permeable
materials that are glued and not sewn together improve the function of the
awning as rain protection. Greater wind-resistance is ensured by the innovation of
creating pergola-type shades." With regard to the residential comfort desired by
the customers, he mentions the light fittings. Thanks to the LEDs integrated into
the sections, the awning practically makes it possible to use the terrace around the
clock.
Users want service and simple solutions
Each year, the service concept is right at the top of the trend list. To which the
end users in this respect also attach special importance, says Martin Troyer:
"Consumers expect a technically mature product and perfect installation. Only a
real expert is able to mount an awning on a wall with full heat insulation." Advice
is also very important. The salesman must find the right solution for each
respective customer. The various awning types and extras should make it possible
to provide the customer with a solution tailored to his particular requirements.
The service concept is also reflected in the improvement of awning systems.
Awnings are used more intensively than was the case a few years ago, so the
awning fabric is therefore also now replaced more often during the product's
lifecycle. "Systems designed for fabric replacement help to minimise the costs and
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allow the replacement of the fabric without impairing the quality," says Jürgen
Schulz. "And it is equally important to guarantee the availability of spare parts for
several years after purchase," Schulz continues. The end users are ultimately
prepared to invest a lot of money in awning systems if they meet their
requirements and are guaranteed a long service life.
About R+T Stuttgart (24 to 28 February 2015):
R+T is number 1 worldwide. It is a meeting point, an industry barometer and an
innovation platform. The heart of the industry beats to the rhythm of the leading
world trade fair for roller shutters, doors/gates and sun protection. New products
are developed for R+T and presented at R+T. In addition to R+T Stuttgart, which
will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2015, there are successful subsidiary events in
Shanghai, Istanbul and Melbourne. For the motto of R+T is: THINK GLOBAL –
MEET US WORLDWIDE.
Picture captions:
Image "Leiner GmbH – CASA SUNRAIN": Thanks to its water-proof awning fabric,
the Casa Sunrain awning from Leiner provides sun and rain protection
Image "Hella Sonnen- und Wetterschutztechnik GmbH – KLIP": The KLIP model
from HELLA is an open articulated-arm awning with the claim of superior design.
This press release, current photos, photos of the last R+T and trade fair logos can
be downloaded online at:
www.messe-stuttgart.de/r-t/journalisten/pressematerialien/
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