Solar Gard is once again one of our Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

We spoke with Lawrence Constantin, director of sales, Americas for Solar Gard.

Window Film magazine: Larry, why did Solar Gard choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?
Constantin: The International Window Film Conference is such an important event in the industry—growing every year in significance—and Solar Gard is proud to stand behind both the International Window Film Association (IWFA) and Key Communications (publisher of Window Film magazine) event team. Dealer/installer training and education are crucial to creating successful window film entrepreneurs and we are thrilled to have the chance to be a part of it.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?
Constantin: Events like the IWFC are a perfect time for everyone in the window film industry to come together and share “tips and tricks” of the trade. Training sessions help advance the progression of the industry, and the Tint-Off competition brings excitement to window film. The event showcases what the IWFA does behind-the-scenes and helps connect dealers with manufacturers, as well as fosters community between fellow dealers. You’ll find the most leading-edge technology and techniques at the IWFC and it’s a great forum for industry announcements and new product debuts.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from Solar Gard at the 2013 show?
Constantin: We encourage attendees to stop by our booth and learn more about our comprehensive automotive and architectural film portfolios, now including Solar Gard Ecolux™ 70 Low-E (a new sustainable, all-season low-E window film for homes and commercial properties), Galaxie™ and TrueVue™ film offerings, as well as business expansion opportunities with our Clearshield® paint protection film and ComputerCut® software. Last year we also launched Solar Gard Partner Points, the industry’s first points-based loyalty program, where we say “thank you” by giving back to participating dealers. For every purchase dealers make with Solar Gard, they earn points that can be redeemed for thousands of merchandise options, event tickets or travel opportunities. We love that dealers have already been able to turn their film purchases into everything from the latest Apple and Samsung electronics, to concert tickets to see country superstars like Kenny Chesney, to sporting and outdoors equipment. We also know quite a few are saving up those valuable points to take well-deserved cruise vacations!

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?
Constantin: Whenever business owners have the opportunity to step outside their environments, they get to see how others just like them operate a similar type of business. These events provide a chance to talk with other dealers, “bounce around” ideas and solutions, share installation techniques and tool preferences, etc. This forum for exchange builds new friendships with other window film professionals, and they can keep in touch with advice, successes and challenges long after the event is over.

Window Film magazine: Does Solar Gard have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?
Constantin: We wish all the competitors the best of luck, and are looking forward to an exciting Tint-Off! We hope you all have a very busy and profitable season and look at every installation as an opportunity to perfect your technique and improve your speed—all in preparation to take home the coveted first place title (and prize money)!

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., Solar Gard makes architectural and automotive window films, photovoltaics and custom coatings and is a division of Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, a leader in the habitat and construction markets. Solar Gard products are sold in more than 90 countries under the Solar Gard®, Panorama®, Quantum® and Solar Gard Armorcoat® brands.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Madico Window Films is once again one of our Supporters of the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC). The event is set to be held this September 18-20 in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The Exhibition/Extravaganza will be held September 18-20.

During the conference, attendees will be able to take part in educational seminars by industry leaders and expert speakers, network on the Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor with window film manufacturers and suppliers and view the Tint-Off™ competitions.

Window Film magazine: We are speaking with Angie Leonetti, marketing and customer relations manager of Madico Window Films. Angie, why did Madico Window Films choose to sponsor the 2013 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (IWFC)?
Leonetti: Madico Window Films chose to sponsor the 2013 IWFC and Tint-Off because we recognize the importance of this industry-specific event. The IWFC is the only event that focuses solely on window film and thus presents unique learning and networking opportunities for our customer base.

Window Film magazine: Why is an event like the IWFC important to the film industry?
Leonetti: An event such as the IWFC is important to the film industry because it brings together manufacturers, distributors and dealers in one convenient location. By bringing together industry leaders, distributors and dealers we have the opportunity to further strengthen our business as a whole. Together, we can enact the changes we want to see across the window film industry.

Window Film magazine: What can attendees expect to see from Madico Window Films at the 2013 show?
Leonetti: We will be showcasing our full line of Madico and Sun-Gard automotive and flat glass films. We are also looking forward to meeting with prospective dealers who are interested in our new Sunscape Designer Film program. In addition, we’ll be hosting a presentation on installation techniques and specific tools geared toward safety/security film products and improving flat glass installation productivity.

Window Film magazine: What do you hope your dealers and distributors can obtain by attending an event like this?
Leonetti: Our hope is that our dealers and distributors are able to take away some newly gained product or industry knowledge from the show. Between the manufacturers’ exhibits and educational sessions there is an abundance of valuable information available at their fingertips.  This event is also a great opportunity to network and learn from fellow dealers. Often dealers can learn the most from their peers because they are able to exchange real-life tricks of the trade with one another.

Window Film magazine: Does Madico Window Films have any advice for the 2013 Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural Division competitors?
Leonetti: We encourage all of the competitors to practice ahead of time. Some folks can get nervous in front of a crowd and with the clock running. Ask a few friends to help you mimic the competition by watching as you tint and run a stop watch to give you a better feel for the time limit. Most of all we want everyone to do their best and have a good time! The Tint-Offs are always exciting events that we enjoy being able to watch while at the show. A little healthy competition is always fun at industry events such as these!

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ also will be held concurrently. The event is managed by Window Film magazine.

Madico Window Films is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Fla., and develops, manufactures and markets technologically advanced laminates. They have been successfully doing so for more than a century. With an unrivaled commitment to quality of design, Madico continues to pioneer industry-first products and processes with a focus on solar control window films for vehicles, homes and commercial property.

To register or for more information, visit the official event website, www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Our host hotel, the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina, is offering IWFC attendees discounted room rates available on a first-come, first-served basis. The attendee rate is $129 USD per night, plus tax for single room, double occupancy and the room block is now open.

IWFC will be held at the Tampa Convention Center, just steps from the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. Auto Glass Week™ will once again be held concurrently.

Visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc and select the hotel tab to book your reservation online or call 888/789-3090.

For those who prefer the phone, you must reference the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marine and code AGWF13 to access the discounted room block ending August 27, 2013.

For suites, meeting rooms or other premium rooms, please contact Holly Biller at 540/602-3251, or by email at hbiller@glass.com.

For more information about IWFC, please visit us online at www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

“The IWFA believes that, by working with a partner/co-sponsor such as Window Film magazine, and by including as much of our window film industry as we can, the IWFC event will be the largest and best gathering that will further our goals of bringing value to the window film industry. This includes manufacturers and distributors, in general, and window film dealers in particular,” says Jack Mundy, chair of the IWFA Members Action Committee.

“We look forward to working with members of the IWFA once again for the upcoming event,” says Debra Levy, publisher of Window Film magazine. “We’re expanding the show and hope every window film manufacturer, supplier and retailer can join us.”

The IWFC will be held at the Tampa Convention Center and Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina in Tampa, Fla., September 18-20. Auto Glass Week™ will also be held concurrently. Attendees can expect to see educational seminars, exhibits and networking in addition to the Tint-Off competitions.

“We heartily invite everyone in the auto glass and window film industries to attend,” says Ally Curran, event coordinator of the IWFC. “Tampa will have something for everyone and I hope those who were unable to make it to Louisville last week can join us next year in Tampa.”

The Tint-Off™ competitions will return in 2013. The event will once again be managed and sponsored by Window Film magazine.

Registration to attend, as well as compete, and the hotel room block will open soon. Stay tuned to www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc for the latest information as it becomes available.

IWFC Tint-Off Competition winners, Jason Petty (left) and Hann Kim (right) anticipate changes after their respective automotive and architectural tint-off wins.

International Window Film Conference™ Tint-Off Competition winners for the automotive and architectural divisions, Jason Petty and Hann Kim, say their outlook on the future has changed since winning their respective titles this past Saturday in Louisville, Ky. Their outlooks on their abilities, as well as the prospect for bigger business do offer the chance for big changes.

“I think the greatest change so far for me is the realization that all the effort you put into this industry, when you install at your peak, optimum performance is recognized,” says Kim, CEO of STM (Solar Transmission Management) in Los Angeles and first-place winner of the architectural tint division. “It was nice to see the recognition I received from the International Window Film Association (IWFA) and my peers.”

“I think the biggest change I see is who I see looking back in the mirror now is a champion,” states Petty, first-place winner in the automotive tint competition and installer at Keltint Customs in Crossville, Tenn. “I have to live up to my title now. It’s a positive attitude change.”

This year’s winners hope to see a big boost in sales as a result of their increased visibility for their respective companies.

“We are approaching our 25 year in business so we’re using this as a launching pad to bring to the community our expertise and bring awareness to our quality of products in window film, as well as bring value to energy efficiency,” says Kim.

“In the area where I work, there are three shops within a 100-mile radius that say they’re the best; we’ve got someone else to say it for us,” adds Petty. “We’re definitely going to advertise it. Maybe it will help us stop losing business to bigger cities. We’ll definitely be advertising it as best as we can afford to.”

Though Petty and Keltint have yet to notice a jump in sales from the recent victory, Kim says that STM has “developed a lot of leads since winning this award.”

As the two champions reflect on their wins, they both agree that the competition this year was steep and all of the contestants were talented.

“I think everyone that has won in the past, definitely the finalists, have a lot of talent,” says Petty.

“All of the people I met, they all have the potential,” agrees Kim. “Everyone that showed up to the competition is there because they want to be the best. Everyone has a chance. Chris Brooks was able to place on both the automotive and architectural boards, in addition to his win last year. That’s amazing. The competition was very close. The top ten guys could have gone any way. I’m very fortunate to have won, but I could have very easily have been second or third. The competition is stiff.”

Co-Sponsors

International Window Film Association, Booth #121

The International Window Film Association (IWFA) is a unified industry body of window film dealers, distributors and manufacturers that facilitates the growth of the window film industry by providing unbiased research, influencing policy and promoting awareness of window film. The IWFA educates industry influencers and consumers on the energy savings, protection against broken glass and UV properties of window film and delivers standardized training and educational materials and seminars to industry members, building and energy organizations and the public. IWFA supports the growth of the window film industry by educating policymakers involved in the creation and enforcement of building codes, auto tint laws, legislation and financial incentives at the national and local level. The organization builds alliances with trade associations, utilities and government agencies to advance dealers and distributors businesses and provide greater value to their customers.

Window Film Magazine, Booth #803

Window Film magazine is the only publication in the world dedicated exclusively to the window film industry and is designed for all those who work in the film industry.

Window Film magazine is distributed worldwide to the film and tint community—complimentary as well as produces Focus On Film, a twice-monthly e-news service, and FILM’d, an award-winning bi-monthly newscast, all for the film industry. For more information, visit www.windowfilmmag.com.

Supporters

3M, Booth #318

No other brand of window film enjoys higher consumer awareness than 3M. It’s one more reason to partner with the technology leader. One of the largest selections of quality window films, backed by 3M’s lifetime warranty as well as superior customer service.

HanitaTek Window Films, Booth #119

HanitaTek is the North America distributor of Hanita Coatings SolarSone, SafetyZone, PolyZone and XtraZone window films. With a focus on energy savings, we work hard to partner with our customers to provide solar and safety solutions for their client base.

Johnson Window Films, Inc., Booth #104

Located in Carson, Calif., a family-owned business for more than 35 years, Johnson

Window Films (JWF) offers outstanding solar control and protective window film products throughout the world. Stand out from the crowd with our customized sales literature and shop enhancements from JWF www.johnsonwindowfilms.com/dealer; 800/448-8468; 310/635-4929.

LLumar, Booth #109

As the world’s leading manufacturer of window films, Eastman Chemical is dedicated to building successful partnerships with our dealers. Stop by our booth to see how we can help you achieve your full business potential with our LLumar, Vista Window Film and FormulaOne Auto Tint brands.

Madico Window Films, Booth #303

Complete line of automotive, solar and safety films from Madico Window Films and Sun-Gard Window Films.

Solar Gard, Booth #210

For more than 30 years, Solar Gard has been one of the most popular window film lines for professional installers throughout the world. Manufactured by Solar Gard in San Diego, Solar Gard is sold in more than 70 countries via company-owned distribution centers and independent dealers. Solar Gard window films are installed on several thousand homes, buildings and millions of vehicles every year.

Dealer/Distributor Exhibitors

44TOOLS.COM, Booth #414

Knives, blades, squeegees, detailing and tinting supplies, Aquapel, vinyl and paint protection film in bulk rolls or in vehicle specific kits.

Anti-Fog Systems, Booth #415

Anti-Fog Systems product to prevent fogging on endless applications, optically clear, 6 year manufacturer’s warranty, produced in the USA.

Avery Dennison, Booth #308

Nano-Fusion™ Paint Protection Film is warranted for as long as your customer owns the vehicle against peeling, yellowing, bubbling or cracking of the film from UV exposure. See us for more details.

Jiffy Steamer Co., Booth #420

SteamBlade® simplifies the removal of window film, vinyl wrap and lettering. The hot, moist steam quickly and safely unbinds the glue from the window.

Scorpion Window Film, Booth #422

Scorpion Window Film features our full line of automotive and flat glass films at the 2012 International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™.

Solar Control Films, Booth #418

Solar Control Films sell automotive, architectural, safety and decorative films and tools nationwide from our Houston and St. Louis service centers.

For a full list of all the companies including the auto glass companies you can see on the IWFC Exhibition/Extravaganza floor, visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc/listofsponsors.

The conference will be held Thursday, September 20 through Saturday, September 22 and includes three days of educational seminars, the International Window Film Tint-Off™ Automotive and Architectural division competitions, an Exhibition/Extravaganza trade show floor with some of the industry’s top manufacturers and suppliers, IWFA accreditation review and testing, and much more.

Registration is still available on-site if you are interested in attending and have not already purchased a ticket to attend the event. The registration desk will open on Thursday, September 20 at 7:00 a.m. for attendees to pick up their badges or if you are interested in registering.

The International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off is co-sponsored by the International Window Film Association and Window Film magazine.

For more information on the event including the event schedule and the full registration hours, visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

The Exhibition/Extravaganza show floor opens Friday at 2 p.m. and will also have the Automotive and Architectural Division competitions of the International Window Film Tint-Off™, sponsors’ booths and the Silent Charity Auction.

The IWFC begins on Thursday, September 20, with educational seminars and runs until Saturday, September 22. Registration is still available on-site for those industry members that have not signed up to attend.

The IWFC is co-sponsored by Window Film magazine and the International Window Film Association. Auto Glass Week™ 2012 will be held concurrently.

For more information, visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc.

Registration is available online at www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc. All pre-registrations must be in by the end of day today to qualify for the pre-registration discounts.

Attendee registration includes registration to all seminars, workshops, social events and admittance to the IWFC Exhibition/Extravaganza, where you can watch the Automotive and Architectural Divisions of the International Window Film Tint-Off™, as well as talk one-on-one with industry manufacturers and suppliers.

Registration will be available on-site, though pre-registration discounts are only available today.

To pre-register, visit www.windowfilmmag.com/iwfc and receive the discounted price through the end of the day today.