Rainco unveils window ware and shade systems

Rainco Pvt limited (manufacturers of umbrellas], in recent years have diversified their business portfolio into outdoor living accessories, indoor outdoor blinds, shade structures and outdoor wood protection paints, thus expanding their existing business into promoting the concept of outdoor living. Traditionally, a family owned business, synonymous with stability and reliability, the Company is moving forward aggressively into new areas with a focus on innovation and progression.

Yet another company under the Rainco umbrella, namely Light and Shade, recently rebranded themselves with a view to catering to the ever increasing demand for superior quality blinds and shade structures that are fast taking the place of traditional curtains and sheet metal tents; both in the domestic as well as corporate segments. The blinds division is branded as Light and Shade ‘Window Ware’, while the canopy division has been branded as ‘Shade Systems’.

"Light and Shade since its inception four years ago has made tremendous strides, so much so that we can modestly say that Light and Shade now sets the standard for both window decor as well as outdoor shade solutions, and is at the forefront of the industry- paticularly in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.", said Director, Rainco, Faris Fausz. Known for its unique designer blinds and outdoor canopies and awnings, Light and Shade has set a new trend in furnishing households, offices and hotels, giving them a unique, contemporary look and feel.

Now a fully fledged Indoor and Outdoor Blinds manufacturer, Light and Shade is re-shaping its image and portfolio to present customers with a wide range of "window ware" products to suit varying locations and ambiances at prices that accomodate a variety of budgets. "We are able to do this purely due to the reputation we have built up for an innovative and quality product lineup, and service standards known for speed, efficiency and fine finishes", said Fausz.

Citing continuous innovation and the use of quality components as the prime reason for their success, Head of Operations, Irshad Akthar said that having entered the local market as the pioneers in introducing bamboo blinds, they were in the enviable position of currently being the only manufacturer of timber Venetian Blinds in both Sri Lanka as well as the Maldives. "Our new Monsoon blind, which is yet another product unique to Light and Shade is ideally suited to the hospitality sector as it enables you to enjoy the view outside, whilst being protected from the wind and rain", said Akthar, head of Operations Rain and wind sensors for remote controlled motorised awnings which are able to retract and close at the hint of rain and high winds are yet another innovation available from Light and Shade.

"Developing this industry is integral to us and a key part of our vision. The use of environmentally friendly materials, low energy consumption motors, allowing for more energy efficient window coverings, have made us market leaders in a short space of five years", said Fausz. Light and Shade’s solutions present clients with the entire package, from measurements, right upto installation as well as after sales service. "With over 4000 eminently satisfied customers from the domestic, commercial and hospitality sectors, including the Cinnamon Grand, Bayleaf, Coffee Bean, and the Paradise Road Gallery, to name just a few, we are determined to make our mark in the export markets as well".

To date the Company has been exporting most of their manufactured products to the Maldives, India, Seychelles, UK, US and Europe. According to Fausz, the export potential for locally manufactured products has never been greater; "the local industry today has only to make use of this opportunity and develop it to its peak", he said.

Window covering and shade systems are prime in serving their purpose as energy saving mechanisms. In a typical household or corporate environment, windows account for nearly 50% of heat gain, and this in turn places close to 50% of the workload on the air conditioning system. "That’s more than the roof, walls, and attic combined! According to the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers, a fabric awning reduces heat gain by 55-65% during the period of the day when the sun shines directly on windows/glass doors; a substantial saving both in terms of energy usage as well as allied costs". Head of Operations "shade system" Roshan Jamaldeen went on to say that worldwide, the demand for retractable awnings has grown significantly in the last decade and is expected to continue to grow as energy costs soar and as the awareness for the negative impacts of global warming increase.

"The Rainco group is expanding and promoting the concept of outdoor living and sport. Sri Lanka being a tropical country, there is tremendous opportunity for us to enjoy the benefits of good weather such as extending ones dining room to include an outdoor patio, where you could relax in the early hours of the morning, do your yoga, or enjoy an evening barbecue with family".

‘The World of Outdoor’, another recent venture by Rainco, has a range of products to aid this living experience . This brand carries products that range from Italian sunloungers, a range of over 20 varieties of umbrellas, outdoor tables, chairs, and even hammocks; the collection is endless.

Light and Shade will also showcase their products at the Architect’s Exhibition scheduled to be held from the 23-27 February at the BMICH, with a total of seven stalls where their entire product range will be on display.