10 Reasons why you should consider Barlow Blinds for your blinds and shutters.
Here’s Why Barlow Blinds Has Earned That Trust In Leicester and Beyond.
Real Reasons. Zero Gimmicks.
Choosing blinds or shutters isn’t just about picking colours and fabrics. It’s about trusting someone with:
- Your home’s comfort
- Your energy bills
- Your family’s safety
- And your peace of mind
We know that’s a big deal and we take it seriously.
So here are 10 honest, provable reasons why thousands of homeowners (and even competitors) in Leicester turn to Barlow Blinds when it matters most.
1. 135+ Years of Local Know-How (Since 1887)
We’ve been in Leicester since Queen Victoria’s reign no exaggeration.
Why it matters:
- We’ve seen every window trend and tricky bay design.
- We know what works and what wastes money.
- Businesses don’t last five generations unless they’re doing something right.
We don’t just claim experience. We live it every day.
2. Made in Leicester, Not Miles Away
Roller Blinds. Vertical Blinds. Perfect Fit Blinds. Cellular Blinds. Made in our Brighton Road workshop.
Your benefits?
- Faster installs
- We aim to make the best blinds, not the most blinds
- Repairs without the runaround
- Lower environmental impact
Most blind companies in Leicester are just installers. We are manufacturers.
3. No Commissions. No Pressure. No Nonsense.
We don’t pay staff to push pricey options. You’ll always get our best advice not a sales pitch.
You won’t hear:
- “This one’s more expensive, so it must be better.”
- “I’ll have to check with my manager.”
- “This deal ends today!”
We recommend what fits your needs, not our sales targets.
4. BBSA Accredited And Proud of It
We’re full members of the British Blind & Shutter Association, the UK’s only governing body.
Why it matters:
- Strict safety, quality, and training standards
- Transparent processes
- Annual compliance checks
Most blind companies aren’t BBSA members. We are and we help set the bar.
5. Industry Leadership (Phil Coleman Is on the BBSA Committee)
I’m really proud to have been asked to join the BBSA Management Committee to ensure that Barlow Blinds is always at the front when it comes to Child Safety, Energy Efficiency and best practise. I was also part of the team that wrote the only NVQ for window blind installers.
He’s involved in:
- Training programs
- Installer qualifications
- Safety updates across the UK
- Energy Saving data
You’re not just choosing a supplier. You’re choosing someone who shapes the industry.
6. Which? Trusted Trader UK Winner (Twice)
Which? don’t hand out these awards lightly.
We’ve passed:
- Workmanship inspections
- Customer service checks
- Financial and legal audits
We’ve won UK Trusted Trader of the Month twice. That’s rare. And real.
To find out more about Which? Trusted Traders
7. Energy Expertise Certified Smart Shading Advisors
As ES-SO advisors, we prove energy performance with real data.
Example: Cellular blinds can improve heat retention by up to 32%. Proven. Tested. Verified.
Want to know more about ESSO and smart solar shading click here
8. Award-Winning Service (Local and National)
Real awards. Real judges. Real recognition.
🏆 BBSA Excellence Award
🏆 Highly Commended Mobile Showroom
🏆 Two-time Which? Trusted Trader winner
Awards don’t make us perfect but they prove we care more, try harder, and keep raising the bar.
9. Trained Installers, Not Salespeople
When we visit your home, we’re not there to sell we’re there to solve.
- All staff are trained and DBS-checked
- You get honest advice, not sales targets
- No false promises
- No guesswork just accuracy
We don’t outsource trust.
For more details of the BBSA Excellence Awards click here
10. Trusted By Customers And Even Competitors
We’ve fitted thousands of blinds across Leicester. But here’s the kicker:
Other blind companies send their “impossible” jobs to us.
Yes really.
Add to that hundreds of 5-star reviews, fast turnaround for emergencies, and decades of referrals. You don’t get that without real care.
To see our latest reviews click here
Frequently Asked (and Honestly Answered)
Q: Why choose you over national chains?
A: We make blinds locally, with 135+ years of experience, no pressure selling, and verified industry awards. Nationals can’t match that combo.
Q: Do you outsource blind and shutter fitting?
A: Never. Our team is in-house, trained, and background-checked.
Q: Can you prove energy savings?
A: Yes. We’re certified Smart Shading Advisors with verified data to back it up provided by the BBSA and University of Salford..
Final Thought
We’re not for everyone.
But if you want honest advice, local care, and proven quality we’d love to help.
About Phil Coleman
Phil Coleman is the fifth generation of his family to run Barlow Blinds, a Leicester business that has been making blinds since 1887. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, Phil has played a leading role in shaping industry standards including being part of the team that wrote the only NVQ qualification for blind and shutter installers. He also serves on the Management Committee of the British Blind & Shutter Association (BBSA), helping to set best practice across the trade. Under his leadership, Barlow Blinds has remained true to its founding principle: “It’s not our job to find customers for our blinds, it’s our job to find the right blinds for our customers.”
- 135+ Years in Leicester
Established in 1887. We've seen every window shape, trend, and challenge—and we’re still here. - Made Locally
We manufacture blinds in our Leicester factory. Faster fits, better quality control, easier repairs. - No Commission, No Pressure
We don’t pay commission. Our advice is based on your needs, not sales targets. - BBSA Accredited
We meet strict UK safety and quality standards. Most companies aren’t BBSA members—we are. - Industry Leadership
Phil Coleman sits on the BBSA Management Committee, helping set UK installer standards. - Which? Trusted Trader Winner (Twice)
We’ve passed rigorous checks and won the UK Trusted Trader of the Month—twice. - Energy Expertise
Certified Smart Shading Advisors. Our blinds can improve heat retention by up to 32% (BBSA tested). - Recognised for Excellence
Winners of national and local awards, including the BBSA Excellence Award and Mobile Showroom commendation. - Expert Installers Only
All home visits are by trained, DBS-checked installers—not salespeople. - Trusted by Customers—and Competitors
Hundreds of 5-star reviews. Even other blind companies send tough jobs to us.
