The supplier of blinds, shutters and awnings celebrates – and looks back on – 25 years in business.

Big shoulder pads and big hair were all the rage, EastEnders made its debut, Wayne Rooney was born and the average mobile phone was the size of a house brick. 1985 was also the year that Arena, a leading supplier of made-to-measure blinds, shutters and awnings to the trade, was launched.

Since then, during the course of the last 25 years, the company has grown to become one of the industry’s leading players and Paul Harper, general manager (pictured), is delighted to give us his thoughts on both how the market has changed and his plans for taking Arena forward.

“Arena was established in 1985 as a supplier to the trade of both components and made-to-measure blinds. We have developed the brand and enjoyed consistent growth over the years due to the high quality of our made-to-measure product, backed up by exceptional customer service.

“Massive advances in technology have changed the face and pace of business. The first mobile phone call in the UK was made in 1985, but that is taken for granted these days and of course the impact of the internet has revolutionised how we do business.

“January 2010 saw the launch of Arena’s new website. It’s designed to give customers up-to-date information and the functionality to order online. We appreciate that the speed of information is all-important in today’s market and this innovation keeps us at the forefront of technology. Ongoing development continues to ensure that we give the best online support service we can.

“Although we do still cater for those who still work in feet and inches and prefer to talk with a human being!” adds Paul. “I recently discovered that the combined experience of the people within our office is over 120 years! Customers appreciate that they’re talking to someone who understands the product and their service requirements. This really helps to avoid the frustration of miscommunication.

“Our reputation is built on such solid customer service and our commitment to this strategy requires continued investment in the business despite tough economic times. We aim to keep at the vanguard of product advancement in what is a fast evolving environment. The size of our operation means that we can be quick to adapt to changing consumer needs to provide exactly what our customers want.

“In 2011 we are really going for it in every product area and will be launching new vertical, roller, roman, venetians, wood venetians and pleated collections. Key features will include forward-thinking designs, exciting developments in wood, fantastic presentation material and competitive entry-level pricing.

“We also anticipate even greater demand for shutters and have introduced training courses for customers who want to develop their skills within the shutters market. There is a two-day beginners’ course aimed at dealers who want to embark on offering shutters and a one-day advanced/refresher course for those with an existing level of experience and knowledge.

“Providing efficient, informed and personal service is essential and we want to be the number one port of call for shutters as well as blinds. We appreciate that service is the key issue for customers when it comes to selling and fitting shutters and our enhanced training programmes are designed to meet those needs.

“We’re also offering a further option of support in the field for anyone who feels they would benefit from an expert’s assistance and a dedicated shutters support hotline which will be staffed by a specialist who can answer specific and detailed questions. An enhanced order-tracking facility will follow the progress of an order at certain key points.

“So despite difficult trading conditions, Arena continues to develop and pioneer exciting product ranges, service initiatives and competitive pricing structures.

“We’d like to thank all our customers for their support over the last 25 years and we look forward to giving the best possible service and products for the next 25!”

• Arena