Storm Smart Company Profile

Background

Overview

Storm Smart, established in 1996 and headquartered in Fort Myers, Florida, is a leading provider of hurricane protection solutions. The company specializes in manufacturing and installing code-approved products designed to safeguard residential and commercial properties from hurricane damage. With a dedicated team of over 410 employees, Storm Smart has successfully completed over 100,000 installations across Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Mission and Vision

Storm Smart's mission is to deliver innovative and reliable hurricane protection products, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of homeowners and businesses in hurricane-prone regions. The company's vision is to be the recognized leader in hurricane protection, setting industry standards through exceptional service and product excellence.

Primary Area of Focus

The company's primary focus is on providing comprehensive hurricane protection solutions, including screens, shutters, panels, and impact-resistant windows and doors. These products are engineered to withstand high winds and airborne debris, offering robust defense against hurricanes and tropical storms.

Industry Significance

As one of the largest manufacturers and installers of hurricane protection products in Florida, Storm Smart plays a pivotal role in enhancing the resilience of properties against severe weather events. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has set benchmarks in the industry, contributing significantly to the safety and preparedness of communities in hurricane-prone areas.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Product Innovation: Continuously developing and refining hurricane protection products to meet evolving safety standards and customer needs.

Customer Satisfaction: Providing exceptional service and support to ensure a seamless experience from consultation to installation.

Market Expansion: Extending the company's reach within Florida and into other hurricane-prone regions to serve a broader customer base.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Hurricane Screens: Lightweight fabric screens that reduce wind speeds by up to 95%, allowing only a gentle breeze through while blocking destructive winds.

Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors: Products designed to resist impact damage from airborne debris, enhancing both safety and energy efficiency.

Aluminum Shutters and Storm Panels: Durable solutions offering protection against high winds, driving rain, and impacts from flying debris.

Key Technologies Utilized

Advanced Manufacturing Systems: State-of-the-art computerized ordering, manufacturing, and scheduling systems to ensure precision and efficiency in product delivery.

Home Automation Integration: Partnerships with leading providers to develop systems that allow remote control of storm protection products via mobile devices.

Primary Markets Targeted

Residential Properties: Homeowners seeking reliable and effective hurricane protection solutions.

Commercial Properties: Businesses requiring robust protection to safeguard assets and operations during hurricane events.

Geographical Focus: Primarily serving Florida, with expansions into Mexico and the Caribbean.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In April 2021, Storm Smart was acquired by Rotunda Capital Partners, a private equity firm focused on transforming family-owned companies into dynamic, data-driven platforms. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Utilization of Capital

The capital from the acquisition has been utilized to:

Expand Service Offerings: Enhancing product lines and introducing new solutions to meet diverse customer needs.

Geographical Expansion: Strengthening the company's presence in Southeast Florida and exploring opportunities in other hurricane-prone regions.

Operational Enhancements: Investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and improving operational efficiencies.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Storm Smart continues to develop and refine its product offerings, focusing on:

Advanced Hurricane Screens: Innovations aimed at providing higher levels of protection with improved materials and designs.

Integrated Home Automation Systems: Developing solutions that seamlessly integrate storm protection products with smart home technologies.

Stages of Development

The company is in the advanced stages of product development, with several new products undergoing testing and evaluation to meet industry standards and customer expectations.

Target Conditions

Products are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, airborne debris, and other severe weather conditions typical in hurricane-prone regions.

Anticipated Milestones

Product Launches: Scheduled for the upcoming hurricane season, with marketing campaigns to raise awareness among target audiences.

Certifications: Achieving necessary industry certifications to validate product performance and safety.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Storm Catcher Screens: A proprietary product that uses a lightweight fabric to reduce wind speeds by up to 95%, providing effective protection while maintaining visibility.

Significant Scientific Methods

Advanced Materials Engineering: Utilizing high-strength fabrics and materials to enhance the durability and effectiveness of storm protection products.

Home Automation Integration: Developing systems that allow remote control of storm protection products via mobile devices, enhancing user convenience and safety.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Scot Burris, CEO: Joined Storm Smart in 2021, bringing extensive experience in operations and leadership. Under his guidance, the company has expanded its workforce and enhanced operational efficiencies.

Brian Rist, Founder and Shareholder: Founded Storm Smart in 1996 and served as CEO for 25 years, leading the company through significant growth and industry recognition.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The hurricane protection industry is characterized by a growing demand for reliable and innovative products, driven by increasing awareness of climate change and the need for enhanced property resilience. The market is competitive, with several key players offering a range of products and services.

Competitor Analysis

Steadfast Inc.: A leading hurricane screen and shutter supplier in Palm Beach County, acquired by Storm Smart in June 2022 to strengthen its presence across Florida.

Other Regional Providers: Various local companies offering similar products, contributing to a competitive landscape in the hurricane protection market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

Acquisition of Steadfast Inc.: Enhanced Storm Smart's product offerings and expanded its market reach in Southeast Florida.

Home Automation Partnerships: Collaborations with leading home automation providers to integrate storm protection products with smart home technologies, offering customers enhanced convenience and control.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

Storm Smart's strategic focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and market expansion positions it favorably in the competitive landscape. The company's commitment to quality and service excellence differentiates it from competitors, contributing to its strong market presence.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Product Diversification: Expanding the product line to include additional storm protection solutions and home improvement products.

Geographical Expansion: Exploring opportunities to enter new markets, both domestically and internationally, to serve a broader customer base.

Technological Advancements: Investing in research and development to incorporate emerging technologies into product offerings, enhancing performance and customer value.

Contact Information

Official Website

For more information about Storm Smart's products and services, visit their official website.

Social Media Profiles

Facebook: Stay updated with the latest news and promotions by following Storm Smart on Facebook.

Instagram: Explore product showcases and customer stories on Storm Smart's Instagram page.

LinkedIn: Connect with Storm Smart professionals and learn about career opportunities on their LinkedIn profile.

Storm Smart's dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction continues to drive its success in the hurricane protection industry, ensuring the safety and resilience of properties in hurricane-prone regions.