Having spent years managing other businesses in the sector, Ian Woolley, a veteran of the insulated glass unit (IGU) industry had grew frustrated by the “race to the bottom” mentality that prioritized cheap products over quality and service. This frustration was particularly evident in the symmetrical blinds sector, which was dominated by imported products from the Far East, often marked by long lead times and questionable quality standards. Ian had had enough and in 2018 Blinds In Glass Group Ltd (BiGG) was established, born from his desire to set a new standard—one where quality, service, and reliability were at the forefront.
Ian’s experience in the glass industry goes back to 1985 when he started working at his father’s business in the Midlands. After leaving in 2005, he pursued other ventures, but blinds in glass remained at the core of his expertise. Working with Pellini Screenline of Italy, Ian quickly recognized the value of their dedication to R&D and high product standards, particularly their symmetrical SV+ system, which led him to secure a long-term supply deal with Pellini and their UK partners.
Expanding Choices, Meeting Demands
BiGG offers a wide variety of integrated blinds and control systems. From the original pull cord "C" system to the more advanced motorized MB option, customers can select what best suits their needs. Recently, BiGG expanded its color choices to include black, agate grey, and a dual-tone grey-on-white option, all complemented by longer warranties than many other suppliers offer. With a standard 10-12 day lead time from every Thursday at 10 a.m. BiGG has made it a priority to meet customer demands swiftly without compromising on quality.
But BiGG isn’t just about blinds in glass. The company also offers complementary products, including composite doors from their Comp Door brand, balustrade glass, office partitioning, aluminium louvres, and aluminium verandas, pergolas, and glass rooms under the auBen brand.
True Family Business
BiGG has grown into a family-run business with Ian’s children, Ben and Lauren, playing pivotal roles. Ben joined five years ago, leaving his job in recruitment in Nottingham to take charge of the office and day-to-day operations. His commitment has helped BiGG grow, and despite the long commute from Nottingham to Coventry each day, he’s embraced his role at the heart of the business. Lauren joined three years ago, focusing on the administrative side of the business, having transitioned from Tesco.com, freeing Ian to develop new areas of the company.
Ian’s wife Jo, after 15 years working with the NHS, now oversees the accounts side of the business. Meanwhile, Ian’s sister Joanne manages BiGG’s South West office in St Austell, Cornwall, with Matt taking care of the Norfolk office in Norwich. It’s truly a family effort, which gives the company a personal touch that customers appreciate.
During the pandemic lockdown, Ian couldn’t find a quality veranda for his own home—a gap in the market that sparked the idea for auBen. Specializing in high-quality aluminium verandas, pergolas, and glass rooms, auBen was created to deliver what Ian couldn’t find—premium products with an emphasis on durability and design.
To bring auBen to life, Ian partnered with his long-time friend, customer, and golf partner, Steve Sharples of North West Bifolds in Chester. The partnership is a perfect fit—Steve handles the installation side of the business, while Ian focuses on the showroom, located conveniently next to the BiGG factory. “It’s a great partnership for us both to grow our respective businesses,” Ian says. They’ve even expanded with a second showroom at Steve’s location in Chester.
auBen, pronounced Ausen, German for Outside
auBen’s aluminium systems are marine-grade, ensuring durability, and are available in grey, white, cream, and black finishes. The roof glass is 8.8mm laminated and polished to avoid cold cracking due to temperature changes, and the 10mm tempered sliding glass doors are built for strength and safety. External blinds, louvered side panels, LED lighting, and remote control options for roofs and blinds make auBen’s offerings versatile and modern. Nationwide delivery of kits to trade and installation services for both retail and trade customers round out auBen’s comprehensive service package.
Focused on Service, Not Just Sales
One thing Ian is clear on: BiGG and auBen are built on customer service, not just price competition. “We’re BiGG in name only, but never too big for our boots. We remain humble and want to grow through great customer service, not through being cheap,” Ian says. He knows from experience that chasing low-cost solutions doesn’t create a sustainable business. Instead, BiGG aims to deliver value through premium products and excellent customer relationships.
If you’re interested in seeing what BiGG and auBen have to offer, Ian and his team welcome you to visit their showroom in Shilton, Warwickshire (CV7 9JY). Whether you're part of the trade or a retail customer looking for quality installations, you’ll find that Blinds In Glass Group Ltd is ready to exceed your expectations with superior products and a dedication to service that’s second to none.
www.blindsinglassgroup.com 0800 470 1005
