Diving into interior décor films, also referred to as refresh films might seem a bit daunting at first, especially if it’s a whole new market for you. Feeling a bit out of your element is totally understandable. But here’s the thing: interior refresh or decor films actually have a lot in common with signage and graphics.
They are often referred to as ‘architectural films’, but are actually a subset of this category. The term ‘architectural’ covers all films that go on interiors, exteriors, and windows, including sun protection and safety & security window films. Whereas ‘interior refresh’ refers only to materials used for renovation and decoration, like wall and floor coverings, frosted window films, and printable graphics for walls and windows.
In this article we will debunk 6 of the common myths and prove that you’re ready to get started with décor films.
Myth 1: I don’t know anything about the architectural films market
Actually, you already have years of experience selling self-adhesive films. You know how to sell to customers, how to serve companies, and run a business. Selling your interior refresh offering relies on the same skills, relationships, and knowledge you already have.
Myth 2: It’s a completely different material
Interior refresh film is just like the films you already work with, just thicker and more durable. You’re already familiar with self-adhesive film and how it behaves. You know the best practices for storing and applying it. You’ll need a little practice before you offer it to customers (wrapping your work premises is the perfect opportunity for that), but there’s nothing really novel about this material.
Myth 3: I don’t have the skills
You already know how to work with a knife and squeegee, which is all you need. In fact, if you’re used to weeding letters, that’s a way more intricate job than, for example, a simple door wrap. All you need to do with interior refresh films is measure everything and cut accurately.
You can choose the difficulty level depending on your skills. At the start, you can do flat simple applications with a few metres of film. Or even, get some material and try wrapping your table, wall, or door. And if you want extra support or want to move on to more complex applications, we organise a number of workshops and training sessions to teach you all the techniques.
Myth 4: I don’t have any customers that need these films
Your existing customer base holds more opportunity than you may realise, so there’s no need to hunt for new customers. You’re already going into shops, cafes, gyms, and hotels to install a promotional graphic or signage. These same businesses likely have at least one, if not several, surfaces that need refreshing.
Maybe they’re just delaying a renovation because they don’t want to close down or can’t afford to buy all new furnishings. And you actually have the perfect solution for them.
So, you will not only generate more revenue for your business but also build loyalty with your customer base and stand out from your competitors.
And, if you do want to grow even more, the market potential is huge. Just in the UK, there are 500 000 listed buildings and 39 000 hotels, B&Bs, etc. Imagine all the surfaces you can wrap.
Myth 5: My customers won’t understand why I’m charging them more for décor compared with signage
Remember that you’re not just selling a short-term sign, you are giving your customers something that will last years. And you’re also helping them with their larger business goals such as increasing footfall and maintaining their premises.
In addition, you are simplifying the process for them. It’s probably going to take you less time to wrap all their tables and walls than for them to wait for all new tables to arrive and have someone come in to paint the walls.
Not to mention, as a sign maker, you can install wood, marble, concrete, and textile finishes, instead of your customer having to coordinate several different professionals.
All of these benefits add up to a service that your customer will be happy to pay for.
Myth 6: My customers don’t want an imitation of real materials
Maybe you feel like you’re selling your customers an inferior solution. But actually, interior refresh films are of really high quality. Many interior designers have been impressed with how inconspicuous they are compared with the real thing.
Often, interior refresh films are more practical for certain applications. For example, marble stone is very heavy and would be very hard to install on a ceiling. But a plastic slate can be wrapped in marble film that weighs very little.
You will probably find that most people want just the aesthetic, not the material itself. In fact, interior refresh films have made interior design and décor a lot more accessible for the majority of people.
Within the architectural portfolio, there is a wide variety of décor films for different budgets and project needs. For example, the 25 patterns in the Imageperfect Refresh range are created for simpler applications, lasting up to 5 years. Whereas CoverStyl has 100s of patterns, lasting up to 10 years. Whatever demands and needs you customer’s space has, there is probably a material to do the job.
So, as you enter this exciting new market, don’t hold yourself back. Remember that you have all the skills and experience you need to be successful. Start small and gradually build up your confidence and reputation. We’re here to support you every step of the way with knowledge, resources, and advice. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the journey.
Master the art of installing interior decor films in our Cover Styl Training Program. This one-day course provides hands-on experience with Cover Styl Architectural Films. Click here to enroll!
