SHORT-term or long, adapting to change is a crucial part of the ongoing success of any business, as demonstrated by Northampton-based Saxon Blinds, which celebrates its 20th anniversary later this year.
Having started as a retailer in Northampton town centre, the firm has grown into an installer of blinds systems for clients across the UK, manufacturing bespoke products at its factory in Magee Street.
The move away from the High Street was an important factor in taking Saxon Blinds to the next level, in the same way that diversification and a broad and varied customer base has been vital to continued success in recent years.
Managing Director Mark Grainger said: “What we’ve seen over the past three and half years is an economy that has, in some areas, stalled due to uncertainty over Brexit. Construction projects have been put on hold, investment held back, until everyone knows what is happening, and that has a knock-on effect on businesses like ours.
“But because we’re strong in other areas and not reliant on one sector, we’ve been able to keep the order books healthy, and we’re still here and ready to take on those projects that will surface again once the Brexit situation is resolved and the economy finds direction.
“That strength stems from decisions we made fairly early on to not just rely on a domestic retail customer base but to develop the commercial side of the business. Manufacturing our own blinds has been crucial in making sure we stayed in control of the direction in which the business went, so we’re not relying on external suppliers in order to fulfill contracts.
“And now, in 2020, we’re preparing to celebrate our 20-year anniversary, which is quite an achievement for any independent business.”
Saxon Blinds manufactures a complete range from a simple roller blind to state-of-the-art remote controlled systems for clients in a number of sectors, including industrial, office, education and health care. Blinds are available in extended widths – anything up to five metres wide – so suitable for most meeting room, theatre, classroom and school building uses.
Choice, flexibility and competitive pricing are backed up by a five-year guarantee on all commercial blinds. All Saxon Blinds staff are DSB checked and part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme.
For more details contact Saxon Blinds on 01604 603111, email or visit the website www.saxonblinds.co.uk