illumin8 2025 Year in Review: Innovation, Expansion, and Design Without Limits
2025 was a business-changing year for illumin8. We expanded into three new markets, launched two innovative product systems, and increased our production capacity—growing global revenue by 5% while reducing operational costs. As an organisation, we pride ourselves on being both innovative and an early adopter of emerging trends. This year, we met our shareholders’ expectations by growing quickly while staying mindful, strategic, and customer-focused.
Business Expansion
This year marked a major milestone—25 years of illumin8. In January, our teams gathered at the Sharjah factory to celebrate the people who have shaped our journey. Many of our long-serving employees have been with us through every stage of growth, and their commitment continues to be the foundation of our success.
Our operations accelerated further through a strategic partnership with a global industry leader. This collaboration gives us access to decades of international experience and distribution insight. In return, we shared our specialised manufacturing techniques, reinforcing our value within the partnership and setting the stage for long-term development.
With expanded global support, we began strengthening our presence in Southeast Asia, seeing early growth in India. Our Indian facility—already respected for its roller blind expertise—is opening opportunities for locally tailored products and faster lead times for regional clients. Beyond roller blinds, the factory’s additional capabilities create new possibilities we are actively exploring, allowing us to diversify our offering in a fast-growing market.
Product Development
Innovation continues to drive our product roadmap. In 2025, we focused on emerging demand in the DIY market. According to the UK DIY Retailing Market Report 2025 by Steven Mayles, the sector is valued at more than £13 billion and is increasingly shaped by small, easy-to-manage home projects.
Cost pressures steer most toward smaller DIY projects, but a rise in big-ticket projects among high-income earners signals renewed interest in ambitious home improvements.
One gap was clear: the UK market had no no-drill Roman blind solution, despite Roman blinds being consistently strong sellers. Working with our partner Decora, we adapted their no-drill roller blind technology to engineer a slim, intuitive, tool-free Roman blind that meets all required safety standards.
These no-drill blinds are ideal for small renovations, rented homes, and customers seeking stylish updates without tools or mess. They leave no drill holes, can be installed in minutes, and are easy to remove or reposition—offering convenience that aligns perfectly with modern living.
In addition to our in-house no-drill Roman blind system, we also supply Decora’s no-drill roller blinds. This proven system allows us to offer a full range of tool-free window solutions, giving customers more flexibility and widening our portfolio of easy-install products.
We also expanded our smart solutions. By enhancing our systems and introducing a newly optimised curtain track, we have made motorised curtains and blinds more accessible to a wider audience. With smart home technology moving into mainstream adoption, demand for automated window furnishings is accelerating. According to Grand View Research, the global smart home market is projected to grow by 27% and reach $537.27 billion by 2030. illumin8 is well-positioned to support this rapid shift with practical, modern, user-friendly solutions.
New Brands and Designers
Design remains at the heart of what we do, and this year we expanded our portfolio with seven new collections. Three of these come from exciting new brand partnerships with Bluebellgray, Land & Shore, and Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell, each bringing a fresh creative perspective.
2025 Collection Additions:
- Bluebellgray 2025
- Land & Shore 2025
- Orla Kiely 2025
- Sara Miller 2025
- Sophie Allport 2025
- Shabby Chic by Rachel Ashwell 2025
- Laura Ashley 2025
We also expanded our in-house ranges. The Simply 2 collection introduces a refreshed selection for Roman blinds and curtains, offering a versatile mix designed to appeal to every taste. Meanwhile, the Loom collection showcases a curated range of wide-width fabrics available in a broad palette of colours—providing affordable, stylish solutions for both large and small interiors.
Looking Ahead Together
This year reminded us that growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, ideas, and shared progress. From our dedicated teams to our valued partners and customers, every achievement in 2025 was a collective success. We look forward to another year of collaboration, creativity, and delivering products that inspire and delight.