Outdoor Spaces program launches second year

Web site provides consumer information on awning benefits

-- Casual Living, 5/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

For a second year, Glen Raven Custom Fabrics and Somfy Systems are continuing their sponsorship of the Outdoor Spaces program, a nationwide effort that is educating consumers on the benefits of awnings.

“The first year of the program proved very successful in providing valuable consumer information,” said Doug Dubay, awning market manager for Glen Raven Custom Fabrics.

The central element in the Outdoor Spaces program is an interactive Web site – www.outdoorspaces.com – which includes extensive information on the benefits of awnings as well as consumer information on how to secure the most suitable awning for a home. A dealer locator is accessible on the site, searchable by city or by Zip code.

“Numerous factors are coming together that make awnings increasingly desirable,” Dubay said. “Consumers are sold on the need for energy conservation and protection from damaging UV rays, and they want to enjoy more time outside at home. Awnings are the ideal solution.”

To encourage consumer visits to the Web site, Glen Raven and Somfy are running ads in leading consumer shelter publications. Glen Raven is also sponsoring search engine placements and Internet advertising. The Sunbrella public relations team is contacting consumer publications and Web sites on a national, regional and local basis to provide additional education on awnings.

Somfy is a leading manufacturer of specialized motors and control systems for retractable awnings, rolling shutters, interior shades, blinds, projection screens and other lift-up applications for the home. For more information, visit www.somfy.com

Glen Raven's Sunbrella brand performance fabrics provide durability and easy care in thousands of sophisticated styles, patterns and colors. For more, visit www.sunbrella.com.