Liberty Awnings and Shades’ Amy Huette shares business tips

April 1, 2026  |  Features

In the Valley of the Sun, there’s no shortage of companies selling awnings. That’s why Amy Huette wasn’t quite sure how to respond when about 25 years ago in Colorado, her father proposed a new business venture in Phoenix, Ariz.
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Businesses boost revenue through value-added services

April 1, 2026  |  Features

For businesses of all sizes, expanding into service-based revenue streams can unlock new income, deepen customer loyalty and even spark spinoff companies.
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Tackling large-frame awnings and fabric structures

March 1, 2026  |  Features

Large frame awnings and fabric structures are what most of us in the industry want, or at least a few of them per year. They usually take substantial labor hours and material, and as such, can be very profitable and keep your staff busy.
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SugarHouse Industries marks 85 years of business in 2026

March 1, 2026  |  Features

2026 marks 85 years of business for SugarHouse Industries in Midvale, Utah. The fabrication shop specializes in awnings and custom-made products in the marine, military and aerospace industries.
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Want to add powder coating or electrostatic painting?

March 1, 2026  |  Features

To expand beyond their core business, some awning companies may offer ancillary services. A painting service, either powder coating or electrostatic painting (ESP), is one option. Two Advanced Textiles Association member companies offer their insights on why they chose the technology and how the abi…
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An architectural take on permanent shade umbrellas

February 1, 2026  |  Case Studies, Features

Taiwanese architect Cheng-Tsung FENG took inspiration from traditional oil-paper umbrellas to create an airy park pavilion that has a pocket garden and benches for people to gather and relax inside. The structure takes an umbrella’s design and turns it on its head—well, more literally on its sid…
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Association board chair Craig Zola on textile industry goals

February 1, 2026  |  Features

For Craig Zola, stepping into the role of board chair felt like the natural next step of a decades-long career dedicated to textiles and association leadership.
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You can stand under their umbrella: Stunning shade for fans

February 1, 2026  |  Case Studies, Features

“The Organic Tree” was created to make a fan experience at the Australian Open more comfortable. VDM Group and Pattons implemented a detailed breakdown of the design, engineering, fabrication and installation process and spent the first week planning. Although this used up a week of its 12-week …
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