Newell Rubbermaid's Levolor Brand Launches Most Energy Efficient Shades on the Market

ATLANTA, March 9, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Newell Rubbermaid (NYSE: NWL) today announced its Levolor® brand, the most recognized name in custom window fashions, has introduced the most energy efficient window shades on the market. Levolor Accordia^™ Cellular Shades feature exclusive Energy Shield^™ technology that can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to $180 annually and are available in more than 200 fabric choices – offering homeowners a fashionable yet efficient total window solution.  

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100309/CL65764 )

Through consumer research Levolor found that homeowners rank having a shade that reduces energy expense as a top priority when selecting a window shade, but they aren't willing to sacrifice style for efficiency.

"We are using consumer insights to bring about meaningful innovations to help our consumers make their homes more livable while saving money on rising energy costs," said Kristie Juster, president of Newell Rubbermaid's Decor global business unit. "Accordia offers a remarkable combination of smart design features and trend-forward styles so consumers don't have to compromise on function or fashion."    

The loss of energy through windows can account for up to 20 percent of a home's total heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Cellular shades, known for their crisp, clean appearance and unique cell structure, help insulate windows by trapping pockets of air within.  Exclusive Energy Shield technology, a clear, additional layer of insulation hidden inside of the cellular structure, gives Accordia extra insulation and eliminates air flow while providing filtered light making it possible to reduce heating and cooling costs so the shades essentially pay for themselves over time. Accordia is the only cellular shade to increase energy efficiency on sheer and light filtering fabrics.  

Accordia blends style with function by offering more than 200 exclusive woven textures – the largest breadth of superior quality fabrics on the market – to coordinate with any decor and provide years of durability.

Accordia shades also offer several smart design features making them easy to use.  Accordia is a cordless shade that utilizes a patented spring motor system allowing the shade to raise with a simple push of the bar. For complete light and privacy control, the Top Down/Bottom Up option allows shades to be lowered from the top and raised from the bottom.  

Levolor Accordia Cellular Shades are now available at home improvement and specialty window treatment retailers throughout the U.S. For more information visit www.levolor.com.  

About Newell Rubbermaid

Newell Rubbermaid Inc., an S&P 500 company, is a global marketer of consumer and commercial products with 2009 sales of approximately $5.6 billion and a strong portfolio of brands, including Rubbermaid®, Sharpie®, Graco®, Calphalon®, Irwin®, Lenox®, Levolor®, Paper Mate®, Dymo®, Waterman®, Parker®, Goody®, Technical Concepts^™ and Aprica®.

This press release and additional information about Newell Rubbermaid are available on the company's Web site, www.newellrubbermaid.com.

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SOURCE Newell Rubbermaid Inc.