From a Stronger Product, to Easier Installations, the New
PPF Products Have it All
By Emmariah Holcomb
Brand new paint protection film (PPF) products took center stage at the International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ (WFCT) and the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, both held late last year. Crowds wove in and out of the aisles to learn about the newest offerings, and PPFMag was there to see it all up close and report back with the latest technologies you can bring into your shop.
Eastman highlighted its PPF Ultra Defense, which the company states is thicker and more durable than competitive offerings and features a first for the industry—a 72 inch PPF made for larger hoods.
Global Window Films debuted its new PPF, which has a repositionable pressure sensitive adhesive. The adhesive, according to the company, makes installing the film easier. Some of its key features include: anti-yellowing; high durability levels; and is optically clear with removable adhesive.
Maxpro took a small but mighty approach to its latest PPF, MaxArmor, with compact toy car models featuring the film. Elizabeth Dillon, sales and marketing executive vice president, mentioned MaxArmor is made to protect against rocks, insects, and more.
“MaxArmor is clear and practically invisible, but is also strong enough to protect a vehicle’s paint in any weather,” she said.
Solar Gard’s Clearshieldpro Hydro was popular. National sales manager Rob Garlo mentioned its marquee property, which allows water to bead up and roll off of a vehicle’s surface. This property, according to Garlo, allows a vehicle to be better protected from the elements.
Hexis had several things for attendees to learn about, including its newest PPF offerings—Bodyfence. The company’s latest product protects against outdoor pollution, minor scratching, acidic rain and more. Company representatives highlighted Bodyfence’s availability, which can be found in both matte and gloss finishes.
Madico informed all who stopped by its booth about one of its products. “Our Protekt PPF is one of the fastest growing products for the company, and installers really like the ease in installation,” said Tom Elley, national sales manager.
Nexfil gave out samples of its Easy Tack PPF, which seemed to be something attendees were interested in. According to the company, it has a “special adhesive,” prevents against yellowing and discoloration.
No matter what day or time of the show there always seemed to be overflowing crowds that filled the XPEL booth. For another year, the company showcased a rare luxury vehicle with a $2.6 million price tag that everyone wanted to touch.
“This year we have a rather unique car, as usual as it’s one of 100 manufactured–the Pagani Huayra Roadster. That’s not the only thing we’re excited about though. The company has launched a new 10 mil PPF in addition to working on an all new interior film,” said Chris Hardy, Mid-Southeast manager.
The company, who also had a large presence at WFCT, said there will be more to come on the interior film side in 2020, as the company already has more than 1,800 interior patterns already completed, according to Hardy. The goal, according to the company, is to protect the interior finishes as well as protecting the outside to create a seamless overall look and feel to any vehicle.
PremiumShield focused on the accessory side of PPF, as it featured a black film ideal for headlights.
“We went with a dark approach to PPF this time around with our new line, and installers can even use it as another option for pinstripes, taillights and more,” said Jamie Werner sales manager and corporate trainer.
SolarFree Window Film introduced a new PPF. Ryan Shin, general manager, mentioned the film has a 10-year warranty and is made with quality installations in mind. The company also began making films for vehicle headlights, which according to Shin, is not dark enough to cause issues.
The International Window Film Conference and Tint-off™ will be held September 22-24 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. The 2020 SEMA Show will return to Las Vegas on November 3rd and run through November 6th at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
See PPF Products in Action
PPFMag’s editors were at both WFCT and SEMA and produced videos
where you can see the latest PPF products up close. To view products
from Film and Vinyl Designs and Solar Gard at WFCT go here: https://bit.ly/2w3NQjL.
To view PPF products from Eastman and Madico at WFCT, go here:
https://bit.ly/2Q9nMuk.
To view the newest PPF introductions from SEMA including products
from Maxpro, XPEL, PremiumShield, Eastman and Solar Gard, go here:
https://bit.ly/2wQGHmW.
Emmariah Holcomb is the assistant editor of PPF magazine. You can reach her at eholcomb@glass.com
To view the laid-in version of this article in our digital edition, CLICK HERE.
