As a leading manufacturer of window film and paint protection film, Solar Gard is proud
to partner with an impressive network of skilled artisans, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.
In celebration of those dealers and installers, we will highlight Solar Gard’s exceptional partners, one by one.
We are excited to recognize our outstanding dealers and we look forward to sharing their compelling stories!
THIS MONTH'S FEATURED PARTNER
GLASSPROTECT
Congratulations to Solar Gard Premium Partner GlassProtect Glassfolies on being named this month’s Solar Gard 2018 Featured Partner in EMEA!
Ronald Klarholz, Owner of GlassProtect Glasfolies, took a moment to answer our questions regarding his successful business:
When and why did you decide to start your own business?
I’ve been in window film for a very long time. Together with my father, we used to sell pre-cut automotive ready-to-install kits in Europe. I did start my own business in 2002. I was one of the first companies in The Netherlands to offer high quality service for architectural window film.
What is the most exciting part of having your own business?
I do like being responsible for the full process in my business: from marketing and communications over sales, all the way to the installation of the product. My customers do appreciate this!
What is the most challenging part of running your business? How do you tackle that challenge?
Over the years, many competitors did enter the market. Why would they pick me? I had to find ways to differentiate and to offer the best package for potential customers. I did become an official Solar Gard dealer, the partnership I have with Saint-Gobain Solar Gard does help to win jobs.
What 3 things have been critical to your success?
- I’m always honest to customers.
- I do make sure I have all the knowledge on solar films and glazing.
- I do specialize in window film only, no other products.
How do you differentiate your business from competitors?
I do specialize in window films only and I do represent a well-known and high quality brand.
What do your customers compliment you on?
The customers do appreciate my fast and professional replies and short delivery time.
Learn more about this “film star team” at www.glassprotect.nl
PREVIOUS FEATURED PARTNERS
OCTOBER: VETROX
Apart from starting your own business, what is the most important decision you have made that has contributed to your success?
A part le fait de devenir indépendant, quelle est la décision la plus importante que vous avez prise qui a contribué à votre réussite ?
The association with the right people, good partners, good suppliers, Solar Gard is one example.
L’association avec les bonnes personnes, les bons partenaires, les bons fournisseurs, Solar Gard en est un exemple.
What is the best advice you have taken?
Quel est le meilleur conseil que vous ayez suivi ?
To believe in one’s convictions and abilities.
De croire dans ses convictions et ses capacités.
What inspires you?
Qu’est-ce qui vous inspire ?
Innovation.
L’innovation.
What do you like about Solar Gard products?
AUGUST: DURABLE
As the recent recipient of Solar Gard’s Lifetime Achievement Award, this month’s Featured Partner, Durable Ltd., has a long-standing commitment to window film. We wanted this unique team to tell their story – their way.
Durable Solar Control Ltd. first set up business almost 50 years ago, making us the oldest window film company in Europe. While Buzz Aldrin was landing on the moon and millions of American youth converging on a farm in Woodstock, NY, we were busy creating an organization to serve the rapidly growing demand for glass tinting. And almost 45 years ago, Durable and Solar Gard became partners, enjoying a successful relationship ever since.
“I started in 1982 with Durable on what was to be a yearlong stay. 35 years later I am still here, along with my fellow Directors Nick and Tony – who both have worked for Durable for well over 40 years – and many of our team’s veterans with decades of service to the window film marketplace. We must be doing something right!”
– Peter Barnes, Director, Durable
Durable has a great pedigree and an unrivaled heritage (not to mention 130 years of industry tenure between just Peter, Nick and Tony!). We continue to go from strength to strength, pairing our years of experience and knowledge with a focus on developing new products and markets.
JULY: MÄLARFILM
Congratulations to Urban Hägg, Owner of MÄLARFILM in Sweden, on being named Solar Gard’s July 2017 Featured Partner – Europe! He took a moment to share some valuable insight into his operations and continued success:
What made you take the leap into entrepreneurship?
I started my business in 2004. I found the architectural window film business to be very interesting and the window film product was without any doubt a product for the future.
What is the most challenging part of running your business? How do you tackle that challenge?
When installing exterior window film, the weather has to be right to get great results. Planning, scheduling and preparing is key to tackling that challenge.
What do you enjoy most about your business?
I enjoy meeting new people every day and it’s rewarding when your customers are satisfied with your work. Also, I appreciate having flexibility when planning my days.
What 3 things have been critical to your success?
• Well executed installations.
JUNE: LUNA GLASS TINTING
Congratulations to Paul Machielsen, Founder & Owner of Luna Glass Tinting in Best, Netherlands, on being named Solar Gard’s June 2017 Featured Partner – European Union.
Mr. Machielsen took a few moments to share some valuable insight into his business and continued success:
What is the most challenging part of running your business? How do you tackle that challenge?
Constantly staying ahead of the market, and being the first on new market trends, is my primary strategic challenge.
By following the market and consumer needs very closely, I am able to set myself apart from what is currently offered by competitors, or provide it in a new way. When I started, window film was on the market for more than 20 years in The Netherlands – I gave it a new twist!
