Mike Lewis notes a significant change in their customer base:

“We’ve seen a lot of people go extra luxury and cost really wasn’t a factor… Or the opposite has hit and it’s like, hey, you we have this minimum and it seems like we’re getting a lot of minimum jobs too.”

This polarization of the market presents both challenges and opportunities for window treatment businesses.

Election Year Impact

The upcoming election is affecting consumer behavior. Mike explains:

“This happens every four years for us. Honestly, it’s election year and that’s is always a big thing and you know money trickles downhill.”

Opportunities in the Luxury Market

Jessica Harling emphasizes the importance of networking in the luxury market:

“You have to go where they live… Whether that is being on a board or going to a charity event or whatever, you just have to go where they live and literally network with them.”

Smart Home Integration

The podcast highlights the increasing importance of smart home technology in the window treatment industry. Features like motorization, solar panels, and integration with voice assistants are becoming standard expectations for many customers.

Innovations from Sun Shading Expo

Mike shares an interesting innovation he saw at the expo:

“There was a retractable awning company that will still are retractable awning that we have puts lights in there. They’re actually integrated in it’s not an aftermarket thing.”

This kind of integration showcases how the industry is evolving to meet customer demands for both functionality and aesthetics.

Changing Perspective on Hiring

Jessica challenges the common notion that it’s hard to find installers:

“It is not hard to find installers. It is hard to find what is the expectation in your head of a perfect installer. You have to train them.”

Importance of Training

Both guests emphasize the crucial role of ongoing training. Mike shares:

“Training them after, basically we always say after a year is when you should probably stop making mistakes, right? But it takes a long time to really get there.”

As the industry prepares for 2025, both guests are focusing on growth and preparation. Mike is expecting a “good bounce back” and is focusing on SEO to prepare for increased demand. Jessica is planning group workshops across the country to provide training on products, sales, and customer service.

The window treatment and awning industry is evolving rapidly, with shifts in customer demographics, technological advancements, and ongoing challenges in hiring and training. By staying informed about these trends and adapting strategies accordingly, businesses can position themselves for success in the coming year.

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https://youtu.be/3AtF8RAVYyE