Iwan Simonis

In the world of billiards, there is one name that is inextricably linked to the essence of the game: Iwan Simonis. This company, which originated in the year 1680 in Verviers, Belgium, has evolved over the centuries to become the undisputed global leader in the field of billiard cloth. Their products, known for their unparalleled quality and durability, have become a fundamental part of the sport of billiards. In this blog post, we explore the rich history of Iwan Simonis, their dedication to innovation and sustainability, and the products that keep them at the top of the industry.

The Early History and Industrial Role

The history of Iwan Simonis began when Guillaume Simonis, a young entrepreneur, decided to focus on the production of woolen cloths. His vision and craftsmanship led to the establishment of a company that quickly became famous for its excellent sheep wool cloths. In 1799, Iwan Simonis played a crucial role in the industrialization of Europe, an era in which the production of goods underwent a significant transformation.

Diversification and Mergers

Over the years, Iwan Simonis has undergone several strategic mergers, including a merger with Peltzer & Fils in 1961 and later with ARAMITH in 2012. These mergers enabled the company to diversify its activities and strengthen its presence in the billiards industry. The result is an extensive range of billiard cloths, felts, and balls for various billiard disciplines, allowing players from all over the world to enjoy their products.

Environmentally Friendly Production

One of the most remarkable aspects of Iwan Simonis is their green production process. The company has a strong environmentally friendly approach and is committed to energy conservation, water purification, and recycling of production waste. These efforts demonstrate that Iwan Simonis is not only a leader in quality but also in sustainability.

Sponsoring and Support of Athletes

Iwan Simonis has a long history of supporting top athletes in the sport of billiards. Through sponsorships and collaborations with players and tournaments, the company contributes to the growth and popularity of billiards as a sport.

The Simonis 760 and 860 cloth series

Among the many products offered by Iwan Simonis, the Simonis 760 and 860 billiard cloths are particularly remarkable. The Simonis 760, with a blend of 70% wool and 30% nylon, provides a faster playing experience, making it a favorite for straight pool and other games where speed and precision are essential. The Simonis 860, on the other hand, is a slightly heavier cloth with a higher wool content of 90%, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and consistent ball roll, ideal for competitive level pool.

Simonis 300: The Choice for Carom Billiards

For lovers of carom billiards, there is the Simonis 300. This cloth is specially designed for the unique demands of carom, a discipline where precision and speed are crucial. The Simonis 300 is extremely fast and allows the balls to roll smoothly and accurately, which is essential for the finesse required in carom. It is the thinnest cloth in the Iwan Simonis range, contributing to the fast and precise ball movements that are characteristic of this game.

The Acquisition of Strachan

In 2016, Iwan Simonis acquired the prestigious Strachan mill in England, a strategic move that further strengthened their position in the billiards industry. This acquisition has enabled the company to offer the authentic Strachan West of England 6811 Snooker cloth, a product renowned for its superior quality and used in professional snooker championships worldwide.

The Strachan West of England 6811 cloth is made from 100% pure new wool, which ensures a very fast and directional nap. This cloth is appreciated by top players and tournament organizers for the accuracy and consistency it provides. It is a cloth that elevates the precision of the game to a higher level and contributes to the legendary status of snooker as a sport of finesse and skill.

Strachan/Simonis 861: An Innovative Collaboration

The collaboration between Strachan and Simonis has also led to the development of the Strachan/Simonis 861, a billiard cloth that combines the expertise of both brands. This cloth is specially designed for English pool and offers players an unparalleled gaming experience. It is a durable cloth that provides the speed and precision required for competitive play while also having the wear resistance required in busy gaming venues.

The Impact of the Floods in Verviers

In 2021, Verviers was hit by devastating floods that had a profound impact on the community and the local industry. Iwan Simonis' factory suffered severe damage, affecting the production and the company as a whole. The aftermath of this natural disaster is still palpable, and the company is working hard to restore the facilities and support the local community.

Conclusion

Iwan Simonis is more than a brand; it is a symbol of heritage, quality, and resilience in the billiard industry. With a history spanning more than three centuries, the company continues to innovate and set standards for billiard cloth worldwide. Their commitment to sustainability and support of the billiard community make them an example for other companies. For billiard players seeking the best playing experience, Iwan Simonis remains the clear choice.

With a rich history and a future focused on innovation and sustainability, Iwan Simonis continues to be a key player in the world of billiards. Their products and their story are woven into the fabric of the sport, and they will undoubtedly continue to play an important role in the billiard community for many years to come. Their acquisition of Strachan and the introduction of the Strachan West of England 6811 and the Strachan/Simonis 861 cloths are just a few examples of how the company strives for excellence and innovation in the billiard industry.