Amherst Window Treatment Company Transitions to New Ownership

Longtime employee Steve Bacon takes over Sonic Blinds after previous owners' 30-year tenure

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Sonic Blinds, a long-established window treatment company in Amherst, New York, has transitioned to new ownership after 30 years under the previous owners, Mike and Ann Lin. The new owner, Steve Bacon, who previously served as project manager at the company, has taken over the business and is committed to maintaining the existing staff of 15 employees.

Why it matters

The transition of Sonic Blinds to new ownership highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses in the region, particularly as they navigate factors like tariffs and the need to balance customer relationships with operational changes. The story also showcases the importance of retaining experienced staff during ownership changes to ensure a smooth transition.

The details

Steve Bacon, who had worked at Sonic Blinds for the past 8 years as a project manager, took over the company in October 2025 when the previous owners, Mike and Ann Lin, retired after 30 years in business. Bacon's first priority was to keep the existing team of 15 employees intact, recognizing their value and the importance of maintaining continuity for the company's customers. Sonic Blinds offers a range of window treatment services, including blinds, drapes, shutters, and outdoor screens, and operates a manufacturing facility on-site to maintain competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. The company has faced some challenges related to tariffs, with some manufacturers imposing 8-10% price increases, but Bacon has been able to navigate these issues through the company's full-service model and strong customer relationships.

  • Sonic Blinds was under the ownership of Mike and Ann Lin for 30 years.
  • Steve Bacon took over the company in October 2025 when the previous owners retired.

The players

Steve Bacon

The new owner of Sonic Blinds, who previously served as the company's project manager for the past 8 years.

Mike and Ann Lin

The previous owners of Sonic Blinds, who retired after 30 years in business.

Sonic Blinds

A long-time window treatment company in Amherst, New York, that offers a range of services including blinds, drapes, shutters, and outdoor screens.

Sue Betz

An employee of Sonic Blinds who has worked at the company for 14 years, helping customers select window treatments.

Alvin Kuhn

An employee who has worked at Sonic Blinds for 10 years, running the production shop where roller shades and vertical blinds are manufactured on-site.

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What they’re saying

“We really love our staff and everyone that works here.”

— Steve Bacon, New Owner, Sonic Blinds (WKBW)

“It's been a really great experience for me.”

— Sue Betz, Employee, Sonic Blinds (WKBW)

“We're one of the only places where you build and buy in town — otherwise you wait for your product...so we can turn it out rather fast.”

— Alvin Kuhn, Employee, Sonic Blinds (WKBW)

What’s next

Sonic Blinds will have a booth at the upcoming Buffalo Home Show for the next two weekends, providing an opportunity for the company to showcase its products and services to potential customers.

The takeaway

The transition of Sonic Blinds to new ownership demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of small businesses in the region, as they navigate challenges like tariffs and ownership changes while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and employee retention.