Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce President Ted Owen will be the featured speaker at noon on Aug 14 at the ribbon-cutting ceremony highlighting the newest Carlsbad-based company and United States launch of the Australian-born product line, SeaShell Awnings USA, Inc. at 3216 Grey Hawk Court.

The facility will serve as the headquarters for the manufacturing and distribution of the self-retractable exterior shade products designed for residential and commercial use. The awnings create an outdoor livable space and help lower energy consumption for residents and businesses by reducing solar heat gain and HVAC demand.

SeaShell Awnings USA has an exclusive licensing agreement with SeaShell Awnings International, Pty Ltd. for the manufacturing and distribution of the uniquely designed retractable awnings. The SeaShell Awnings customizable configuration includes a 90-degree, 180-degree and 360-degree retractable-radial shade designed for residential and commercial use.

The Carlsbad facility is expected to create as a many as 300 full-time job opportunities by 2010 as it expands the national and international market for self-retractable awnings. As demand for SeaShell Awnings grows, it will generate new revenue for the local economy.

SeaShell Awnings USA is a Carlsbad-based company that is a result of the collaborative efforts of Solatube Global Marketing founder John Hanley and SeaShell Awnings Pty. Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Ken Gale. Hanley formed Solatube Global Marketing in 1998. Ten years later, Solatube Global Marketing products are sold and distributed in over 50 countries.

For more information, visit www.carlsbad.org.