Expert Advice

How 3M Window Film Improves Efficiency

Michael Salewych

Updated July 22, 2026

Exterior image of the REI store located at UTC Sarasota, Florida.

REI at University Town Center

Suncoast Window Films is committed to providing top-quality window film solutions to residential and commercial clients.

Recently, we had the privilege of completing a remarkable project for the renowned outdoor retail giant REI, located at the University Town Center (UTC) in Sarasota.

In this blog post, we’re excited to share the details of this project and highlight how our expertise and the use of 3M Prestige 20 film have transformed the REI store’s environment.

Suncoast Window Films is committed to providing top-quality window film solutions to residential and commercial clients.

Recently, we had the privilege of completing a remarkable project for the renowned outdoor retail giant REI, located at the University Town Center (UTC) in Sarasota.

In this blog post, we’re excited to share the details of this project and highlight how our expertise and the use of 3M Prestige 20 film have transformed the REI store’s environment.

The Challenge

REI approached us with a unique challenge.

Their UTC store required a comprehensive window film solution that would elevate its aesthetics and deliver practical benefits, including energy efficiency and UV protection.

With 444 square feet of glass to cover, the scale of this project was substantial.

The Challenge

REI approached us with a unique challenge.

Their UTC store required a comprehensive window film solution that would elevate its aesthetics and deliver practical benefits, including energy efficiency and UV protection.

With 444 square feet of glass to cover, the scale of this project was substantial.

The Solution: 3M Prestige 20

After carefully analyzing REI’s needs and our extensive experience in the window film industry, we recommended using 3M Prestige 20 film.

This high-performance window film is renowned for its advanced technology and impressive benefits.

Let’s explore why:

Solar Heat Rejection

Cool Comfort Year-Round

3M Prestige 20 offers exceptional solar heat rejection, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round.

This is crucial in Florida’s climate, where the sun’s intensity can be relentless.

This means the store’s interior remains cool and comfortable throughout the year without excessive air conditioning.

UV Protection: Shielding What Matters

Preserving Health and Assets

Beyond aesthetics, 3M Prestige 20 provides up to 99.9% UV protection, safeguarding REI’s merchandise and interior furnishings from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

It also protects the health of REI’s customers and employees from UV exposure.

Glare Reduction

Enhancing Visual Clarity

With 3M Prestige 20, the store’s interior experiences reduced sun glare, which creates a more pleasant shopping experience and improves visibility.

Energy Efficiency

Sustainability Matters

Suncoast Window Films’ commitment to sustainability is reflected in the energy-saving capabilities of 3M Prestige 20.

By reducing the reliance on air conditioning, 3M Prestige 20 window film saves REI on energy costs and reduces its carbon footprint, making it an environmentally friendly choice for REI.

Enhanced Aesthetics

Beauty in the Details

While practicality is crucial, aesthetics should not be compromised.

3M Prestige 20 adds a touch of sophistication to the store’s exterior, enhancing its curb appeal without obstructing the crystal-clear interior views.

The Solution: 3M Prestige 20

After carefully analyzing REI’s needs and our extensive experience in the window film industry, we recommended using 3M Prestige 20 film.

This high-performance window film is renowned for its advanced technology and impressive benefits.

Let’s explore why:

Solar Heat Rejection

Cool Comfort Year-Round

3M Prestige 20 offers exceptional solar heat rejection, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round.

This is crucial in Florida’s climate, where the sun’s intensity can be relentless.

This means the store’s interior remains cool and comfortable throughout the year without excessive air conditioning.

UV Protection: Shielding What Matters

Preserving Health and Assets

Beyond aesthetics, 3M Prestige 20 provides up to 99.9% UV protection, safeguarding REI’s merchandise and interior furnishings from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

It also protects the health of REI’s customers and employees from UV exposure.

Glare Reduction

Enhancing Visual Clarity

With 3M Prestige 20, the store’s interior experiences reduced sun glare, which creates a more pleasant shopping experience and improves visibility.

Energy Efficiency

Sustainability Matters

Suncoast Window Films’ commitment to sustainability is reflected in the energy-saving capabilities of 3M Prestige 20.

By reducing the reliance on air conditioning, 3M Prestige 20 window film saves REI on energy costs and reduces its carbon footprint, making it an environmentally friendly choice for REI.

Enhanced Aesthetics

Beauty in the Details

While practicality is crucial, aesthetics should not be compromised.

3M Prestige 20 adds a touch of sophistication to the store’s exterior, enhancing its curb appeal without obstructing the crystal-clear interior views.

The Transformation

Results Worth Celebrating

With 3M Prestige 20 film expertly installed on the windows of REI’s UTC store, the transformation was extraordinary.

Here’s what the results look like:

  • REI now benefits from a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and visually appealing environment.
  • Thanks to reduced glare, customers can enjoy the outdoors inside the store, while REI saves on energy costs.
  • 3M Prestige 20 window film protects REI’s merchandise and furnishings from damaging and harmful UV damage.

The Transformation

Results Worth Celebrating

With 3M Prestige 20 film expertly installed on the windows of REI’s UTC store, the transformation was extraordinary.

Here’s what the results look like:

  • REI now benefits from a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and visually appealing environment.
  • Thanks to reduced glare, customers can enjoy the outdoors inside the store, while REI saves on energy costs.
  • 3M Prestige 20 window film protects REI’s merchandise and furnishings from damaging and harmful UV damage.

Conclusion

Your Transformation Awaits

At Suncoast Window Films, we are thrilled to have been part of this project for REI at UTC in Sarasota and take pride in delivering exceptional window film solutions.

Our commitment to delivering exceptional window film solutions showcases our commitment to excellence.

If you want to enhance your space’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetics, just like REI, we have the expertise and the right products to meet your needs.

Contact us today to explore how our window film solutions can transform your residential or commercial space.

Stay tuned for more success stories and valuable insights from our team at Suncoast Window Films.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates and projects!

Conclusion

Your Transformation Awaits

At Suncoast Window Films, we are thrilled to have been part of this project for REI at UTC in Sarasota and take pride in delivering exceptional window film solutions.

Our commitment to delivering exceptional window film solutions showcases our commitment to excellence.

If you want to enhance your space’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetics, just like REI, we have the expertise and the right products to meet your needs.

Contact us today to explore how our window film solutions can transform your residential or commercial space.

Stay tuned for more success stories and valuable insights from our team at Suncoast Window Films.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates and projects!

Get A Free In-Home Consultation

Call Us Today At (941) 417-4000

Share this article

Written by : Michael Salewych

Michael learned the window film business the honest way: on the phone with customers, writing proposals, and fielding the exact questions these posts answer. Marketing came later. The answers came first.

Follow us
Published On: January 23, 2024Last Updated: July 22, 2026

A Quick Overview

FREE CONSULTATION

Call To Schedule Your Free Consultation Today.