AV News August 2023

Hospitality - on the road to recovery

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The hospitality industry in the United Kingdom has always been dynamic and ever-changing, driven by evolving consumer preferences

Barco first half sales up 10%

Results highlights

• Orders 1H23 of 541.1 million euro, an increase of 6% vs 1H22

• Orderbook at 505.8 million euro, 9.3 million euro higher than year-end 2022

• Sales 1H23 of 520.9 million euro, an increase of 10% versus 1H22

• EBITDA 1H23 of 65.0 million euro, or 12.5 % of sales versus 9.8% of sales in 1H22

• Sales 2Q23 of 273.9 million euro, 3% higher than 2Q22 and 11% higher than 1Q23

Executive summary Sales 520.9 472.6 366.0 407.2 10%

www.barco.com

Barco Group’s orders and sales both grew to record levels for the first semester. In the first half of the year, orders increased 6% versus the first half of 2022. Growth was driven by a particularly strong demand in Entertainment. Order growth in Entertainment and Enterprise was offset by HealthCare where order intake declined compared to a strong 1H22.

With a positive book-to-bill ratio in 1H23, the orderbook expanded to 505.8 million euro. Sales grew to 520.9 million euro, a year-over-year increase of 10% and representing an all-time high for a first semester at Barco. Sales growth was driven by both business units in the Entertainment division, and also by Meeting Experience. Sales grew in APAC, Americas and, most

pronounced. in EMEA. In China specifically, sales declined as the recovery in economic activity from the pandemic is taking longer than expected. Within the first semester, after a strong year-over-year sales growth in the first quarter, sales grew at a

level, while, notably, sales of digital pathology displays grew. Surgical and Modality had a soft start to the year, both in order intake and sales, due to a timing difference between phasing out and phasing in of large contracts, notably in Americas, and

How to win an AV News Award!

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With nominations for the 2024 AV News Awards now open, it is now time now the time to plan your Awards strategy to give you the best chance of success.

LG to transform to ‘Smart Life’ solutions business

LG Electronics (LG) declared its vision to transform from its current position as a top global home appliance brand to a “smart life solutions company”. It plans connect and expand

while driving for global annual revenues of KRW 100 trillion by 2030. In a landmark speech at the LG Sciencepark in Seoul, South Korea, CEO William Cho outlined the bold vision built on

ing new platform-based service businesses through advancement of business portfolio, accelerating business-to-business (B2B) and exploring new business areas such as electronic

Co-CEOs of Barco An Steegen and Charles Beauduin: “We are very pleased that Barco reached all-time high sales during the first half of this year. We delivered on the particularly strong demand in the Entertainment markets. ClickShare continued to thrive on the hybrid conferencing momentum.”

slower rate in the second quarter as this is compared to a stronger quarter last year, when demand surged after the pandemic.

The decline in the Healthcare sales and order intake is compared to the record-high levels of the first half of 2022. In Diagnostic Imaging, a normalization of customer investment levels following government-supported spending during the pandemic resulted in a slight dip in order intake levels. Diagnostic Imaging sales approached last year’s

higher customer inventories. In all other regions, orders and sales grew in the mid-single digit range.

In the Enterprise division, order intake increased 4% versus the same semester in 2022, with both business units registering gains. Enterprise sales were close to last year’s level, reflect-

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customers’ diverse experiences

three growth engines: pursu-

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LG CEO William Cho outlined a bold vision built on three growth engines: pursuing new platform-based service businesses through advancement of business portfolio, accelerating business-to-business (B2B) and exploring new business areas such as electronic vehicle charging and digital health.

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Barco first half sales up 10%

ing high single digit growth in Meeting Experience offset by a decline for Large Video Walls. Meeting Experience saw growth across all regions, reflecting continued high demand for ClickShare, Barco’s flexible hybrid conferencing solution. Sales of Large Video Walls declined in all regions. Order intake grew both in Europe and APAC but was soft in the Americas where an uncertain investment climate delayed orders. Barco completed its strategic review of this business, with an increased focus on software and workflow The Entertainment division saw strong growth in orders and sales across all regions, despite weakness in China. Sales grew 43% year-over-year and resulted in a record-high first semester for both Cinema and Immersive Experience. Cinema performed particularly well, reflecting investments by cinemas across the world in the upgrade of their lamp-based projector fleet by state-of-the-art laser projectors of the latest generation. The growth in Immersive Experience was fuelled by live events, and by simulation. Sales conversion for Entertainment improved as production is no longer constrained by the component shortages that impacted results for the same semester last year. EBITDA was 65.0 million euro, up from 46.2 million a year ago. EBITDA margin was 12.5%, which is 2.7 percentage points higher than the EBITDA margin of 9.8% in 1H22, driven by gross profit margin improve-

DisplayNote acquired by Volaris Group

ments. Gross profit margin was 40.9%, up from 37.9% in first half of 2022 and 39.9% in the second half of 2022, largely due to higher margins in the Entertainment division, where last year’s supply chain constraints have eased, and brokerage and logistic costs have declined.

Co-CEOs An Steegen and Charles Beauduin were quoted as saying: “We are very pleased that Barco reached all-time high sales during the first half of this year. We delivered on the particularly strong demand in the Entertainment markets. ClickShare continued to thrive on the hybrid conferencing momentum. As expected, Healthcare results were softer than last year while our perspective on the long-term demand remains strong. During the semester we completed the strategic review of our Large Video Wall segment and are now implementing changes to our business model and growth strategy to ensure sustainable profitability. Although the recovery from the pandemic in China is taking longer than expected, we believe in the long-term potential for Barco in this market.”

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Co-CEOs of Barco An Steegen and Charles Beauduin: “We are very pleased that Barco reached all-time high sales during the first half of this year. We delivered on the particularly strong demand in the Entertainment markets. ClickShare continued to thrive on the hybrid conferencing momentum.”

LG to transform to ‘Smart Life’ solutions business

vehicle charging and digital health. The CEO identified electrification, ‘servitisation’ and digitalisation as key inflection points on which LG will focus on to achieve rapid mid- to longterm growth.

“LG will pursue this bold vision to transform and leap forward as a smart life solutions company that connects and expands customers’ various spaces and experiences, rather than resting on its current position as the best home appliance brand that provides quality products,” said CEO Cho. “We will establish a brand-new LG by reinvent the way we work and communicate toward this goal. We will achieve Triple 7, which encompasses an average growth rate and operating profit of 7 percent or more as well as enterprise value to EBITDA ratio of 7,” said the CEO.

“With the goal of raising sales from KRW 65 trillion last year to KRW 100 trillion by 2030, we will establish ourselves as a company that is properly recognised by the market and customers.”

Cho said LG will focus on the transition to the platform-based service business model, acceleration of B2B areas and procurement of new growth engines based on competitive edge as three pillars to focus on customer experience. By 2030, the proportion of these three pil-

Volaris Group ("Volaris"), a global leader in software solutions today announced its acquisition of DisplayNote Technologies Ltd ("DisplayNote"), a wireless casting and video transmission technology company. This acquisition will help accelerate DisplayNote's mission to create connected experiences in meeting rooms and learning spaces worldwide. Volaris' steadfast “buy and hold forever”' approach to acquisitions helps DisplayNote continue to realise its vision of enriching every meeting room and learning space with its advanced technology.

Rob Turner, Group Leader at Volaris Group, shared his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: “Our decision to acquire DisplayNote was driven by their customer-first approach and culture of innovation, underpinned by industry-leading technology. Their vision of strong long-term customer relationships and industry leading innovation aligns with ours, helping position both Volaris and DisplayNote for continued growth.”

Paul Brown, CEO of DisplayNote,

also expressed his views on this pivotal development: “With Volaris, DisplayNote has found a home that shares our vision and helps us continue to support and expand our customer and partner ecosystem, whilst still innovating and growing the DisplayNote team. Importantly DisplayNote's journey of innovation

and customer dedication continues. Customers can expect the same level of commitment to providing high-quality products and services and will see the same familiar faces leading the way”.

By leveraging Volaris’ extensive resources, this acquisition supports DisplayNote in their mis-

AV counters protester threats

sion to transform the way we interact and collaborate within business and educational environments. ission to create connected experiences in meeting rooms and learning spaces worldwide.

lars in sales and operating profit is expected to increase to more than 50 percent. The company plans to invest more than KRW 50 trillion by 2030 for the qualitative growth of the business, including the advancing of the business portfolio led by the three new growth engines. This includes an R&D investment of more than KRW 25 trillion, facility investment of more than KRW 17 trillion and strategic investment of KRW 7 trillion.

The company is also accelerating the expansion of its B2B business, the CEO explained.

LG’s rich understanding of customers as well as the know-how to communicate and empathise with customers that have been accumulated in the B2C business, which has seen continuous innovation over the past 65 years, will be fully expanded to commercial, mobility and virtual spaces. Cho highlighted how LG is accelerating company-wide changes from corporate culture to brand communication at every customer contact point with the ultimate goal of becoming a brand that warms the hearts of customers and puts smiles on their faces while enabling customers to feel the value and philosophy of Life’s Good.

Halo Solutions, the award-winning British tech company behind intelligent crowd safety, incident and threat management platform, Halo (V5), is to deploy its live streaming drone technology Halo Stream to help combat protestor activity at major sporting events. The move comes as British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Home Secretary Suella Braverman and the Sports Minister Lucy Frazer are to hold talks with senior sporting leaders, event organisers and the police in an attempt to head off disruptive protests by groups such as Just Stop Oil and Animal Rising and to stop them from ‘ruining events’ at other sporting events over the summer.

The Halo Drone and Stream technology has been deployed to a recent series of major sporting and cultural events to monitor protestor activity, persons of interest, ticket touts and crowd safety. Using live streaming technology to the Halo (v5) incident and threat management system is a major enhancement to its capability and provides a vital link for building intelligence, surveillance, combatting environmental and animal rights protestor activity at major sporting events and assisting in counter terrorism surveillance and reconnaissance. Some of the biggest sporting events in the UK have been targeted recently in a spate of attacks by a number of well organised and resourced protest groups. Major events including the Ashes 2nd Test Match at Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Grand National, the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final, the Scottish Grand Na-

tional and Epsom Races have all been targeted, causing mass disruption and putting the safety of crowds and those participating at risk.

The Halo Drone and Stream system will also give vital frontline ‘eye-in-the-sky’ support to counter terrorism, security and safety strategies at major sporting events, according to Halo Solutions founder Lloyd Major, a crowd safety expert and former National Counter Terrorism Unit Specialist Tactical Support Officer. “With the marked increase of threats from protestor and activist attacks at major sporting events, the safety and security of crowds and event stakeholders has never been more important. We have also seen increased terror threat levels domestically and overseas with a number of terrorist organisations and training camps active in Afghanistan.

It is well known that Afghanistan has now become a safe space and haven for terrorist groups to train, operate and mount attacks against the West alongside other global geopolitical unrest. The integration of live video stream-

ing from sources like drones, CCTV, body-worn video and mobile phones to our existing Halo (v5) incident and threat management platform really does play a significant role in countering protestor activity, identifying

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AV counters protester threats

persons of interest and playing a proactive role in crowd safety and counter terrorism strategies. Combined with previous and existing event intelligence, we can provide proactive surveillance and reconnaissance direct to the control room.”

The Halo (v5) live stream drone technology was recently deployed to three successive major events: the Reading Half Marathon, the Ashes series at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, and Flavours of Fingal, one of Ireland’s largest county shows attended by over 80,000 people. At the world-renowned Ashes Test Series in Birmingham – which passed peacefully without any protestor incident thanks to the Halo System - the Halo drone, its pilots and the Halo integrated threat management platform were deployed to form a unique turnkey security and intelligence operation, working closely with Edgbaston Cricket Ground’s major event security and intelligence centre. The Halo (v5) drone streaming technology was able to tag and track multiple persons of interest including protestors and capture footage commanded by operators on the ground – whilst live streaming into the command-and-control post in the operation rooms at the same time.

Halo’s innovative tech platform provides operations’ control rooms and security teams with the ability to track and monitor every range of security threat, crowd safety and the overall safety of an event, proactively identifying potential threats from protestors, extremists and terrorist threats. With the new Halo Drone Stream and inhouse pilots, the solution can be rapidly deployed to an event to provide continuous live stream footage directly into the Halo in-

cident and threat management platform. This means event operations and security teams can monitor, assess and react to persons acting suspiciously, crowd tension, security threats or a protest group planning an attack, based on real-time, live information.

Whilst the use of drones at major events is not new, we have seen them deployed sparsely at football matches and music festivals, often solely for marketing purposes, but not as a routine fixture for surveillance at major sporting events. The pre-existing technology for drones streaming live footage into a control room is patchy and insecure at best –providing a disjointed approach to making the right decisions.

Drone pilots on the ground often must download and reshare footage after the fact, meaning there has not been a coherent and synchronised platform to join up all the dots and to provide the real-time information needed to make critical decisions at the right time. In the event of a major terrorist attack, such as the Manchester Arena bombing, the streaming of live information would have played a critical role in decision making on that day and potentially could have helped save lives, by scouting and clearing the area faster and reducing the wait time to enter the ‘hot zone’ and treat casualties. Halo links all these inputs and outputs together directly into the control room, evidentially secured and simultaneously encrypted. This includes our new wearable tech streaming hardware for the pilots and all-in-one remote wireless ultra-fast connection, allowing total freedom for remote use and real-time streaming from any location.

Edgbaston chose to deploy Halo’s Drone Stream at the First Test of the Ashes series to proactively monitor the showpiece event in their cricketing calendar, as a high-value target for protestor groups and heightened threats as we saw with the pitch invasion at Lord’s Cricket Ground for the 2nd Ashes Test series. Halo’s drones patrolled the skies across the iconic Birmingham sports ground as the England-Australia test match took place, where it could provide overwatch for known or unknown persons of interest, ticket touts and protestors, protect the crowds of cricket fans and staff in attendance at the event. All told, several persons of interest, a known protestor and six ticket touts were identified, tracked and streamed back into the Halo System in the control room at Edgbaston.

Lloyd Major CEO of Halo Solutions added:

“With Halo, we have created the only seamless incident and threat management platform that can ingest multiple live streams of footage from any source: drone, bodycam footage, CCTV and mobile. The technology synchronises and connects the pilot operator on the ground to control with the highest quality live stream footage that is completely targeted to the biggest threats currently presented. This seamless flow of information allows serious and –in some cases – life-altering decisions to be taken much quicker, with intelligence and critical decision-making governed by real time information. This is a vitally important aspect to assist a control room to help prevent protestor activity, a major crowd safety issue, or to help prevent the very real threat of a terrorist attack.”

New president Sharp Europe to focus on growth

Sharp Europe has announced the appointment of Joe (Yoichi) Tomota to the position of President to lead its business, which includes its established document solutions portfolio, expanding IT services division, energy solutions business, and Sharp NEC Display Solutions in Europe. Headquartered in London, Sharp Europe serves customers in both the private and public sectors, as well as education and government, with a portfolio ranging from printers and other advanced technologies, collaboration platforms, through to IT services. Sharp Europe is part of Sharp Corporation, a global technology company employing over 46,000 people worldwide and an expert in both business to business and consumer innovation.

Joe has extensive international experience with nearly 30 years of expertise in industrial design, innovative technology development, manufacturing, and sales. His career at Sharp has included 10 years at overseas subsidiaries and roles that

Midwich to invest in broadcast. media and entertainment

Midwich has published a Preclose Trading statement for the six months ended 30 June 2023 which included the announcement of the acquisition of HHB Communications Holdings Limited (“HHB”), a leading supplier of specialist professional audio equipment, content creation products and music technology. HHB joining the Group further develops Midwich’s offering in the strategically important broadcast, media, and entertainment markets. Founded in 1976 and with 55 employees, HHB has built a name for itself in the broadcasting, media and entertainment market and has supported many notable postproduction facilities, film, gaming, recording studios, and broadcasters with its products used by the likes of Warner Brothers, BBC, Sky and Pinewood Studios.

Mark Lowe, managing director of Midwich UK&I, said: “It’s fantastic news to bring HHB into the Group. HHB’s experience, dedication, excellent customer service, and strong vendor relationships enables us to develop our offering in this dynamic market while providing a com-

plete solution to our customers from market-leading vendors. Across the Group, we have seen the growing convergence between our markets with new technologies from broadcast, media and entertainment joining the AV product mix. Combining our efforts gives us a somewhat unique positioning in the UK with our ability to offer the exciting combination of products, knowledge and technical support across AV, broadcast, media, and entertainment. We look forward to working with the HHB team to share expertise and resource to provide compelling opportunities for our customers.”

Stephen Fenby, managing director of Midwich Group Plc, commented: “I am delighted to welcome HHB, our third new broadcast, media and entertainment business to the Group this month. This market involves key technology categories, and we will continue to invest in this market to support our vendors and customers.” HHB’s existing leadership team will remain post-acquisition, with its founder, Ian Jones, continuing at the helm as managing director. He added: “At its core, HHB has

always been focused on providing a very high level of customer service and support. We have found a partner in Midwich that fully recognises and believes in this approach to doing business, along with our unique culture and ethos.” This follows the Group’s announcement earlier this month of the acquisitions of Toolfarm and 76 Media Systems in the US, continuing its investment in the broadcast market, including a first dedicated investment in software distribution.

Hippotizer Tierra+ MK2 at the VEX Robotics World Championship

championed innovation in MFP controls, large display formats and substantial time as part of the business planning function at Sharp Corporation. His most recent role was as Vice President at Sharp Europe. Commenting on his appointment, Joe Tomota says; “These are exciting times at Sharp Europe as we evolve our business to meet the changing needs of businesses and society. I am passionate about how innovation and technology can constantly provide new value to businesses and I’m looking forward to bringing new products and services to market that will achieve this. But our business is now equally as focused on services. We first established our own pan-European IT Service Centre in Warsaw in 2021, which is run by Sharp employees who provide customers with up to 24/7 multi-language helpdesk support for IT Services. We have made key acquisitions in recent years further developing our IT services business across the UK and Switzerland and have launched IT services di-

visions in the Netherlands and Belgium this year. A priority of mine is to continue to extend and expand this in existing and new European markets. Alongside accelerating innovation, we need to do what we can to protect the environment and ensuring Sharp Europe takes responsibility for this is another of my key priorities.”

In 2023 Sharp will commemorate 111 years in business and last year saw the company mark 50 years since it introduced its first multi-copier. Joe Tomota lives in the UK and is based at Sharp’s European headquarters.

A Green Hippo Hippotizer Tierra+ MK2 Media Server drove centre stage visuals at the VEX Robotics World Championship 2023, which brought young innovators from around the world to compete using their school-engineered robots. Held at the 10,000-capacity Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas, the championships took place over ten days and featured an opening and closing ceremony, competition battles, and an awards presentation. This year’s visual setup was made up of a 3:1 aspect ratio (63’ wide x 20’ high) main stage wall, which included a 12’ x 9’ guillotine door in the center for presenters to enter and exit throughout the show. To accommodate all audience members in the in-the-round arena, a huge LED screen ‘chandelier’ was hung in the centre of the venue above the stage, creating a viewing opportunity to any seat in the house. The chandelier was an equilateral triangle made of three 52’ wide x 13’ high LED screen sides and three 13’ x 13’ end caps at each point of the triangle. Full-service event designer So Midwest, Inc. was asked to design the staging, lighting, and video elements for the main events. “The look needed to be vibrant, captivating, and create an immersive environment for this international event,” explains So Midwest’s Robb Jibson. “Our visual deliverables were a mix of looping 2D illustrative style assets and shiny and crisp 3D renders of the competition robots and game pieces. When we started looking at the raster

maps and the sheer amount of pixels that would be required to feed the staging screens and the additional broadcast elements it quickly become apparent that the Hippotizer Tierra+ MK2 Media Server was the only product that could service it.”

Midwest created all video content, drawing inspiration from the VEX Robotics branding. One of the biggest parts of the opening ceremony was the ‘Parade of Nations’ where all the teams walk out from backstage, pause for photos in front of the stage and move on to their seats. For this section, So Midwest displayed the competing country’s name, flag, location on the globe and the outline of the country using custom scripted TouchDesigner nodes to pull all the country assets together. “Because there were more than sixty countries represented, we accumulated a few hundred assets just for this section of the show,” says Jibson. “The Tierra+ MK2 Media Servers ingested the assets with ease, and we were able to place multiple animated pieces anywhere our client asked with minimal effort.”

For live gameplay feeds on the chandelier’s IMAG screens, the team had different presets which could overlay the live scoring system visuals that were fed from the client. “With any show that changes constantly, the versioning system and ability to drop updated assets into the same banks and pools really speeds along the updating process and keep track of it,” says Jibson. “The 10g network infrastructure on the Tierra+

MK2 creates a direct and fast link between the content creators and the show operators and allows the organisation and manipulation of assets to be stress free. Chad Lussier, the Media Server operator, was able to stay organised and efficient with ease! “Moreover, the speed and number of outputs on the Tierra+ MK2 allowed us to reduce the amount of hardware that we needed - we were able to get this down to just one machine with a tracking backup. The custom EDID ability of the Hippotizer software also allowed us to get the most out of the available canvas, and feeding the Barco Encore systems with the information they need to be efficient.”

Midwest touched base with the Green Hippo support team during the pre-production process, to identify any issues and help assess what products are needed. “Green Hippo has a really great support team that is always quick to answer when the need arises,” adds Jibson.

“When a feature or creative challenge is identified, they are quick to offer options. We really enjoy feeling that Hippo is part of our extended team.” Teams competing in the event came from countries including the USA, China and New Zealand. The VEX Robotics Competition is named as the largest robotics contest in the world by Guinness World Records.

Anders+Kern acquired by Aukett Swanke Group (ASG)

Anders+Kern, a distributor of smart workplace systems, has announced its acquisition by Aukett Swanke Group PLC (ASG).ASG is a provider of Smart Buildings, architectural, and design services. This strategic collaboration marks a significant step forward for Anders+Kern, strengthening its position in the distribution of innovative smart workplace solutions and unlocking new growth opportunities.

Anders+Kern has consistently provided cutting-edge hardware, software, and installation services to enhance room and desk booking systems, as well

as IoT sensors for monitoring environmental and occupancy data. Aukett Swanke Group Plc’s recognition of Anders+Kern's expertise and market presence has led to the acquisition of A+K. By joining forces with Aukett Swanke Group (ASG), Anders+Kern is poised to accelerate its growth and take its smart workplace solutions to new heights.

Under the leadership of Barrie Meehan, former Technical Director of Anders+Kern, and Alison Taylor, former Operations Manager of Anders+Kern, the business will continue its opera-

New supervisory board for LANG AG

tions as a key part of the Aukett Swanke Group. Barrie Meehan will serve as the Managing Director, while Alison Taylor will assume the role of Operations Director for Anders+Kern.

Barrie Meehan, Managing Director of A+K, said: “This acquisition is a positive step for Anders+Kern to continue building its success in smart workplace solutions, with both hardware and software offerings. We are excited to be part of the Aukett Swanke Group and look forward to working together with the group’s architectural and design services.”

On 7th July 2023, the new Supervisory Board of LANG AG was established. Previously, the supervisory board members Gabriele and Paul Detlef Lang as well as Peter Verspay, resigned from office. This means that the founding generation, which has not been operationally active for LANG AG since 2008, is finally leaving the family business. “A smooth generational transition was always important to us. We are proud to have such a diverse and thus also future-oriented supervisory board as our successor,” explained company founder Paul Detlef Lang. In the future, the Supervisory Board of LANG AG will consist of six members who were elected for a period of two years. The new supervisory board is structured as follows:

•The new chairman is Florian Rotberg, managing director of Invidis Consulting GmbH.

•The deputy chairperson is Christina Lang-Winter, headmaster of the Kettelerschule, Bonn. Other active members are:

•Michael Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events GmbH.

•Rebecca Göckel, Managing Director of NRDS GmbH.

•Professor Dr.-Ing. Sina Mostafawy, Professor at Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences

Under the leadership of Barrie Meehan, former Technical Director of Anders+Kern, and Alison Taylor, former Operations Manager of Anders+Kern, the business will continue its operations as a key part of the Aukett Swanke Group

Midwich Group acquires software specialists

Midwich has acquired Toolfarm. com Inc (Toolfarm) and Digital Media Promos, Inc (trading as ‘76 Media Systems’). Toolfarm is the market leading global distributor of video software products and plugins, with a particular focus on 3D and motion graphics, whilst 76 Media Systems is a value-add distributor of highend video storage and media asset management hardware to the North American market. Both businesses are currently run by CEO Rich D’Angelo, who was also the founder of 76 Media Systems. Rich will continue to lead both businesses as part of a newly formed broadcast division of Midwich’s US organisation Starin Marketing Inc (Starin) focussing on the value-add distribution of software and hardware used in video creation and editing, streaming and storage to the combined Toolfarm, 76 Media Systems and Starin channel customer base. Toolfarm’s founders, Jason Sharp and Colin Sharp will step away from the business as part of the transaction.

Whilst based in the US, Toolfarm has a global reach, with a customer base reaching across North America, Europe and Asia, working with vendor partners including Maxon and Boris FX. 76 Media Systems is based in Philadelphia and works with key brand EditShare. Both businesses serve customers across a spectrum of applications, many of which are complementary to Starin’s portfolio focus, as high-quality video creation becomes more and more preva-

lent in the corporate, education and house of worship verticals, among many others.

The investment in Toolfarm also represents further development in the Group’s software distribution capabilities as it looks to provide channel partners with a trusted supplier of software, hardware, and services. The acquisition of Toolfarm and 76 Media Systems follows the recent announcement of the acquisition of Canadian distributor SFM as Midwich grows its capability in the North American market and beyond.

Stephen Fenby, the Midwich Group Managing Director, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Rich and the Toolfarm and 76 Media Systems teams to the Group. The broadcast and video creation market is one of our key technology categories and we will continue to invest in this market to support our vendors and customers. Toolfarm also represents our first acquisition of a dedicated software distrib-

utor which marks an important milestone in our ongoing development.” Rich D’Angelo, CEO of Toolfarm and 76 Media Systems commented: “Starin, and the wider Midwich group, are a very natural fit for Toolfarm and 76 Media. We are looking forward to working with our new colleagues and helping our vendors grow their business, while continuing to offer the focussed support on which we have built our reputation.”

Bobby Swartz, CEO of Starin commented: “Combining Toolfarm and 76 Media Systems specialist knowledge and capabilities with Starin’s existing infrastructure will provide the perfect platform to grow our vendor partner’s business while providing both new and existing customers with access to the best products, technical support and value-add services to enable them to maximise their own opportunities.”

and Managing Director of RHM MEDIA GmbH.

•Anika Lauth, Managing Director of LANG UK Ltd.

“With the realignment, we want to set the course for an even

do justice to this development with the realignment,” explains main shareholder and Chairman of the Board Tobias Lang. LANG AG had a turnover of 82 million euros in Germany in

more successful future. Our home, the professional AV industry, is much more dependent on global developments and foreign technologies today than it was 20 years ago. We will

2022. It employs around 230 people. The company also has interests in similar service providers in Switzerland, Spain and the UK.

LANG AG and Navori sign distribution agreement

LANG AG announces the beginning of a distribution agreement with the software developer Navori Labs. The agreement provides for the Lindlar-based company to distribute the developer's products in Germany, Austria and Switzerland as well as in Great Britain and Spain with immediate effect. In terms of products, the agreement covers Navori's leading QL digital signage software solutions and content management systems, as well as associated hardware such as the QL STiX 3700, a

powerful plug-and-play, android based digital signage player device.

The two companies from Germany and Switzerland, Navori and LANG AG‚ already enjoyed a good working relationship but the new agreement further strengthens the existing business relationship and ensures benefits on both sides through closer cooperation. On the part of LANG AG, the main focus is on having a strong partner from the software sector with convincing

solutions at its side for large projects in the display sector. .“We are pleased that Navori approached us for this and that as a result this cooperation has now become a reality,“ said Tobias Lang, CEO of LANG AG. .“We are convinced that all parties involved, but first and foremost our customers, will benefit from this. With the know-how of our new partner, we are now able to offer optimal solutions for large display projects faster and more efficiently, as we can now better

d&b Group acquired by Providence

d&b Group, a market leader in professional audio systems and AVLM solution provider, has announced a major investment by Providence, a premier private equity firm specialising in growth-oriented investments in media, communications, education and technology. With the support of Providence, d&b plans to further strengthen its global market-leading position in the professional audio market while also further integrating its capabilities in the Audio Visual, Lighting and Media (AVLM) solutions sector. Providence has a track record of investing in businesses that deliver world-class technology and experiences. As part of the transaction, the d&b management team will also acquire a stake in the company, ensuring long-term leadership and strategic continuity. The parties have agreed not to reveal details of the transaction, and the conclusion of the transaction is subject

d&b Group, a market leader in professional audio systems and AVLM solution provider, has announced a major investment by Providence, a premier private equity firm specialising in growth-oriented investments in media, communications, education and technology.

to approval by the relevant antitrust authorities.

Founded in 1981 and based in Backnang, Germany, d&b is described as of the world’s leading providers of professional premium audio technology (d&b audiotechnik) and, in recent years, has extended the business into

integrated AVLM solutions (d&b solutions). Since the company’s acquisition by leading private equity firm Ardian, d&b’s previous owner, in 2016, sales have

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On 7th July 2023, the new Supervisory Board of LANG AG was established.

Used by thousands worldwide, this affordable solution elevates engagement and empowers presenters. Utilising the latest anti-glare technology, the G-Touch® Sapphire ensures that content is always visible from any seat in the room. With crystal clear audio via the front facing speakers, it is ideal to incorporate video presentations. Along with 4K LED display technology, massively reducing the amount of electricity used to operate.

Included with every Sapphire screen is our SPARK II software. Designed to provide the presenter with an infinite canvas area, with the ability to run over the top of other applications allowing you to annotate and highlight and manipulate objects. You will also get access to the built in G-Touch® voting system that allows the presenter to create polls within seconds and the audience to scan a QR code and answer instantly.

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d&b Group acquired by Providence

tripled. The number of employees has also risen sharply from 350 in 2016 to a global team of more than 10,00 with offices in major cities around the globe.

“The global growth trend for events, concerts and major events has continued unchanged after a forced break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is accompanied by the increasing professionalisation and digitisation of these events and thus an increasing need for professional event technologies.

As one of the world's leading system providers for audio technology and integrated audio, video, light and media solutions (AVLM) with a comprehensive portfolio of hardware and

software technologies, we are perfectly positioned to gain further market share. Ardian has proven to be a reliable business partner over the past few years. Thanks to their unwavering support, especially during the pandemic, we have been able to innovate during this period of crisis and to emerge stronger from it. We look forward to continuing our successful journey with Providence and cementing our global position as a leader in professional audio and integrated AVLM solutions,” said Amnon Harman, CEO d&b Group.

“d&b bears the hallmarks of a classic Providence investment –it is a business with innovation at its core, clear market leader-

Vestel partners with Exertis in major distribution deal

ship and loyal customers. d&b’s passionate team has advanced and defined industry standards and exceeded client expectations for the last four decades. We believe d&b will continue its growth trajectory by delivering spectacular experiences to audiences across the globe. With our solid track record of investing in live entertainment and technology companies, we are confident Providence is the ideal partner to support d&b and we look forward to working with Amnon and his hugely talented team to execute our shared vision for the business,” commented Robert Sudo, Managing Director Providence.

Lightware and Sennheiser partner

Lightware and Sennheiser are joining forces to develop a highly efficient and immersive audio-visual solution, which will feature Sennheiser’s ceiling microphones, such as the TCC2, which are equipped with stateof-the-art technology to capture high-quality voice and beamforming technology that provides information about the direction of the sound source. When integrated with Lightware’s Taurus UCX, which employs Lightware Advanced Room Automation (LARA), this powerful integrated solution will process the information from the Sennheiser Ceiling microphone and control a PTZ camera to visually track the voice source. The technology will ensure that remote meeting participants can clearly see and hear who is speaking at any given mo-

ment. It will also feature built-in intelligence to detect multiple speakers and adapt camera focus accordingly. In instances of silence, it also provides a comprehensive view of the room – a capability essential for holding successful meetings in medium to large meeting rooms where participants also attend remotely. As a result, remote participants in meetings held in rooms designed for eight or more people will enjoy a more personal and engaging experience, as they can clearly see and hear on-site colleagues. In addition, organisations seeking to standardise this solution globally can rely on the cooperation between Lightware and Sennheiser, while AV professionals, including integrators and consultants, can implement a cutting-edge technology solution.

“This is an exciting partnership with a huge degree of potential,” commented Gergely Vida, CEO. “When joint Lightwave and Sennheiser solutions come to market, remote meeting participants will be able to hold much more effective one-to-one discussions with both individuals and groups within the live meeting location room. This represents an important set of capabilities in the hybrid working era.”

“Sennheiser is excited to partner with Lightware to support TeamConnect Ceiling Microphones on the Taurus platform. Our customers want meeting room solutions that are easy to use without sacrificing audio quality," said Charlie Jones, Global Alliance & Partnership Manager at Sennheiser. “The Lightware solution delivers on all accounts.”

CUK to distribute AuviTran in the UK

Vestel Visual Solutions has announced a major distribution deal with Exertis, encompassing its entire range of commercial displays as well as its portfolio of

fication products into jobs that are heavily cost sensitive. John Perry, Business Manager for Display at Exertis, comments: “As we looked for a display

series displays later in the year when the company launches system-on-chip models to enhance the operating speed and ease of use of the dis-play range. The Android OS offers the widest compatibility with com-mercial CMS services and other display content. The deal also encom-passes Vestel’s full range of IFPDs for education and corporate mar-kets. Tim Matthews, Senior Product Manager at Vestel added, “Exertis is one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking technology distributors in the UK, working with upwards of 13,000 resellers, retailers, and integra-tors. The scale of Exertis’s business, as well as its growth plans, align per-fectly with Vestel UK’s strategic expansion and plans to gain a com-manding share of the UK commercial display and IFPD market.”

interactive screens (IFPDs) for business and education. The move follows Vestel UK’s strategic expansion of its own-brand display products in the UK, which has seen the giant European OEM manufacturer gain significant market share across the commercial display, corporate and education sectors. Vestel owns the largest flat panel screen manufacturing site in Europe, the 1.3sqm ‘Vestel City’ in Manisa, Turkey, where it leverages its vast economies of scale to reduce the cost of advanced display technology products. Bringing those economies of scale to bear on Vestel’s ownbrand display products has allowed resellers and integrators to specify much higher speci-

supplier to extend our existing product portfolio, Vestel quickly became the natural partner of choice. We have similar, ambitious growth plans for the UK market and as we already distribute Toshiba TV, also part of Vestel, we were aware of the reliability and robustness of Vestel screens in the field. The company’s sheer scale means that Exertis can of-fer Vestel’s performance, and feature specification at a highly competitive price, which in turn, will deliver incredible value to our resellers and inte-grator customers.”

The distribution agreement covers all Vestel’s commercial signage display range from entry-level models to advanced 4K UHD, high bright, An-droid-OS based screens up to 98”. Exertis will take on Vestel’s new ‘+’

Made in Vestel’s European factory, the entire own-brand display range benefits from much faster lead times, lower transport costs and lower transportation carbon footprint than models manufactured in the Far East. Supply chain, manufacturing and sustainability are fully compliant with European regulations, with Quality Assurance throughout the pro-duction. “Building on the existing relationships we have at Vestel and re-liability and super value proposition of its display range, we are expecting to do big things with Vestel in the coming years,” adds John Perry at Ex-ertis. “Display and IFPD are a natural fit for our portfolio and customer base, and we anticipate offering other Vestel display solutions, including LED walls and hospitality screens, in the future.”

Audio networking specialist, AuviTran has appointed Glasgowbased CUK as distributor for the UK and Ireland with immediate effect. AuviTran has been developing audio networking products in the shadow of the French Préalpes since 2003, initially with a range of EtherSound in-

terfaces for mixing consoles. Today the company produces a wide range of Dante interfaces along with the innovative Audio ToolBox modular solution for routing between and converting

The full range of AuviTran products are now shipping from the CUK distribution centre in East Kilbride.

multiple audio formats including Milan certified AVB, Dante, EtherSound, CobraNet, MADI

and AES-EBU. International sales and marketing manager at AuviTran, Cianna David-Kivlehan, explains that “CUK tick all the boxes for us when looking for a distribution partner. Their presence in both live sound and installed AV allows them to service our two key market sectors. Having a strong technical focus means that customers can rely on them for support when using our products in their applications”.Stuart Thomson, managing director of CUK Group, adds “CUK have been supplying audio networking products to our customers since our early days back in 2005 and have enjoyed being on the journey that brought these technologies to the mainstream. Adding an innovative brand like AuviTran to our portfolio ensures we continue to be the first phone call our customers make when working on networked audio projects”.

Embed Signage partners with Vestel

Vestel’s new MB400 Android 9.0 SoC displays are now fully compatible with Embed’s digital signage software. The move sees Vestel’s latest SoC

displays capable of integrating Embed’s incredible scheduling, beautiful visual builder, widgets, apps, plug-ins, analytics and much more. Vestel’s MB400-

based display ranges will launch throughout 2023, denoted by a + suffix on the model range, with Exertis UK already holding stock of the PR+ series high-brightness displays boasting 700nits and 24/7 operation capability. The MB400 Android SoC delivers high-performance playback with robust reliability in a signage-ready, commercial device, making Vestel display and embed software a very attractive display + CMS software package offering. “When it comes to Android SoC displays, this is by far the best performance product we’ve tested so far,” commented Drew Harding at Embed. “We are delighted to be working with Vestel on this range of displays and have plans to integrate our CMS further across Vestel’s comprehensive display ranges and screen sizes.”

While the Android SoC product range is attractive, resellers and

The distribution agreement covers all Vestel’s commercial signage display range from entry-level models to advanced 4K UHD, high bright, An-droid-OS based screens up to 98

Vestel’s new MB400 Android 9.0 SoC displays are now fully compatible with Embed’s digital signage software. continued on page 10

continued from page 8

Embed Signage partners with Vestel

end users can also still opt for the OPS or SDM options running Windows OS in certain Vestel displays. This option offers enhanced capabilities within embed, including connection to external sensors such as presence or lift/place + learn. It also enables control content changes over IP from another compatible Embed device or external control systems such as Crestron.

Tim Matthews, Senior Product Manager at Vestel Visual Solutions said: “We are extremely pleased to add Embed Signage capability to our SoC display ranges this year. The package offers resellers and end-users an ever more flexible display

Evolve IP EMEA launches ‘Hot’ summer sales campaign

and CMS solution package, making for an unbeatable combination of features, performance and exceptional value.”

The move also builds on both brands’ commitment to sustainability. Vestel’s commitment to sustainability includes the pledge to reduce 1000+ tonnes of plastic used in their production and packaging of products, reduce the use of virgin plastics and achieve net zero. Embed actively undertakes tree planting (both through physical volunteer work and contributions to global reforestation projects) and contributes to carbon reduction projects meeting UN sustainability targets.

Application News

Audio

Evolve IP EMEA has teamed-up with some of its top technology partners to launch a ‘sizzling’ summer program – designed to turn up the sales heat for reselling partners. The global collaboration provider has developed various ways resellers can fire up sales, with offers and free product trials being highlighted in bi-weekly webinars running until the end of September. They can take advantage of compelling opportunities from Webex, Akixi, Mondago, Dubber and Snom.

These summer incentives offer a try before you buy plan, licensing upgrade, new pre-packaged business tool, a free headset offer, plus additional integrations that provide business insights using next generation UC technology and CRM integration. To effectively support reselling partners, Evolve IP EMEA is hosting quick fire webinars every two weeks, offering tips and advice so they can make the most of the opportunities available.

Evolve IP UK Sales Director, Jamie Hughes, highlighted: “Throughout the program we will be sharing insights and tips to help resellers roll out these additional tools and services to their customers, enabling them to maximise sales success. Plus, we have scheduled a series of short webinars, providing our reseller partners with a simple breakdown about what each offer comprises. We want to make sure our partners get the most out the incentives available to turn up the sales heat this summer.” Hughes added: “We also want to make this a valuable and exciting opportunity for our partners. Our friendly dog mascot for the campaign is there to get people engaged. Our campaign aims to add more ‘bite’ to reseller sales at what can traditionally be a quieter time of the year – so they can re-engage with their customers about a range of high-quality products and services.” The campaign, also being run in the Netherlands, is

Sphere concert grade immersive sound

Sphere Entertainment Co.

(NYSE: SPHR) has unveiled

Sphere Immersive Sound, powered by HOLOPLOT - the world’s most advanced audio system, which provides crystal-clear, individualized sound to every seat in Sphere, a next generation entertainment medium opening in Las Vegas this fall. Sphere Studios, which develops groundbreaking technologies and content, partnered with HOLOPLOT, a global leader in 3D audio technology, to create Sphere Immersive Sound – the world’s largest, fully integrated concert-grade audio system that revolutionizes immersive audio experiences.

U2’s The Edge said, “The beauty of Sphere is not only the ground-breaking technology that will make it so unique, with the world’s most advanced audio system integrated into a structure which is designed with sound quality as a priority; it’s also the possibilities around immersive experiences in real and imaginary landscapes. In short, it’s a canvas of an unparalleled scale and image resolution, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We all thought about it and decided we’d be mad not to accept the invitation.”

“Sphere Immersive Sound is a cornerstone of the custom-designed technology that will make Sphere unlike any venue, anywhere in the world, providing audio with unmatched clarity and precision to every guest, no matter where they are seated,” said David Dibble, CEO, MSG Ventures, a division of Sphere Entertainment. “Creating this experience required us to go far beyond existing audio technology, and in HOLOPLOT we found

a partner at the forefront of innovation to help achieve our vision and truly transform what is possible with audio.”

“From the beginning, HOLOPLOT has been focused on radically transforming audio technology, rethinking the underlying physics of sound reproduction as we know it,” said Roman Sick, CEO, HOLOPLOT.

“Working alongside Sphere Studios on Sphere Immersive Sound has been a truly thrilling opportunity for our team – challenging us to extend the boundaries of our technology at an unparalleled scale and create a revolutionary listening experience.”

Sphere Immersive Sound is the world’s largest concert-grade audio system and was specifically developed for Sphere’s unique curved interior. The system consists of approximately 1,600 permanently installed and 300 mobile HOLOPLOT X1 Matrix Array loudspeaker modules and includes a total of 167,000 individually amplified loudspeaker drivers. The system utilizes HOLOPLOT’s next-generation 3D Audio-Beamforming and Wave Field Synthesis technology to transform how audio is delivered in large-scale venues. This results in controlled, consistent, and crystal-clear concert-grade audio for audiences of up to 20,000 people, providing each audience member with a truly exceptional and personalized listening experience. The entire sound system is completely hidden behind Sphere’s 160,000 square foot interior LED display plane. Any audio transmission losses are fully compensated for by HOLOPLOT’s algorithms

in the optimization engine, resulting in clear, full-range sound with virtually no coloration and a completely unobstructed visual LED surface – which wraps up, over and around the audience and combines with Sphere Immersive Sound to create a fully immersive environment. Traditional loudspeaker technology in large-scale venues can result in audio quality that diminishes as distance from the speakers increases, due to the uncontrolled nature of sound wave propagation. HOLOPLOT’s patented 3D Audio-Beamforming technology uses intelligent software algorithms to create unique, highly controlled, and more efficient soundwaves than conventional speakers, ensuring that levels and quality remain consistent from point of origin to destination – even over large distances. HOLOPLOT’s propriety beamforming technology can also simultaneously send unique audio content to specific locations in the venue, creating the possibility for different sections to hear completely different content – such as languages, music, or sound effects – offering limitless opportunities for truly customized and immersive audio experiences. Sphere Immersive Sound will additionally utilise HOLOPLOT’s unique Wave Field Synthesis capabilities, a spatial audio rendering technique that leverages virtual acoustic environments. With conventional audio technology, the perceived origin of a sound has traditionally been the location of the loudspeaker. Using Wave Field Synthesis, sound designers can create a virtual point of origin, which can then

Evolve IP EMEA has teamed-up with some of its top technology partners to launch a ‘sizzling’ summer program – designed to turn up the sales heat for reselling partners.

being hailed a great opportunity for all reselling partners to introduce new products to their customers. Eric Fronik, Evolve IP’s NL Sales Director, commented: “This is a great opportunity for

our new partners to engage with their customers during the slow summer months. As a service provider we want to be able to support them and their growth.”

be placed in a precise spatial location. This enables audio to be directed to the listener so that it sounds close, even though the source is far away – for example, an audience member could hear a whisper that sounds like someone is talking directly in their ear.

Since its founding in 2011, Berlin-based HOLOPLOT has been at the forefront of audio innovation, using 3D Audio Beamforming and Wave Field Synthesis technology to develop groundbreaking audio systems. The multi-award-winning company has received global recognition for its patented technology, and with its unique 3D sound capabilities drew the attention of MSG Ventures – which is responsible for developing the advanced technologies used to create immersive experiences

for Sphere.

Sphere Immersive Sound, powered by HOLOPLOT, was first introduced last summer at the Beacon Theatre in New York ahead of being further customized and scaled for Sphere – which leverages the full capabilities of the cutting-edge technology. The introduction of this audio innovation at The Beacon brought a nearly 100-year-old venue into the next generation, setting a new standard for sound quality in performance venues. Since its debut at the Beacon Theatre, Sphere Immersive Sound has offered artists and audiences a glimpse of what the system is capable of delivering, before Sphere opens this fall Sphere Immersive Sound is just one aspect of the 22nd century technologies that will work together in Sphere to create

extraordinary immersive experiences that activate the senses.

In addition to Sphere Immersive Sound and the interior LED display plane, Sphere also features patented 4D technologies such as infrasound haptic seating, and various atmospheric and environmental effects, such as warm breezes, evocative scents and changing temperatures, to create multi-sensory experiences that take storytelling to an entirely new level.

Sphere will open its doors on September 29 with the first of U2’s 25 performances of “U2: UV Achtung Baby Live At Sphere,” and the Darren Aronofsky-directed Sphere Experience, Postcard from Earth, will debut on October 6. Tickets are currently on sale at thespherevegas.com.

Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) has unveiled Sphere Immersive Sound, powered by HOLOPLOT - the world’s most advanced audio system, which provides crystal-clear, individualized sound to every seat in Sphere, a next generation entertainment medium opening in Las Vegas

Vision Techconnect Control transitions to cloud

Vision has announced a significant upgrade to its popular Techconnect Control programming software, providing a seamless cloud-based experience for deploying large scale rollouts. The upgraded Vision Techconnect Control now features a user-friendly, browser-based interface, maintaining the familiarity of the previous application, ensuring integrators that are accustomed to the old system will find it effortless to transition to the enhanced software.

One of the most exciting improvements is the expansion of the IR and RS-232 database, significantly enhancing the software's capabilities. To keep up with evolving technology, the system utilises crowd-sharing, allowing the library to grow dynamically with the introduction of new codes. Collaboration among colleagues has never been easier, as the new system allows users to share configurations quickly via a link. Additionally, each configuration comes with an associated changelog, ensuring efficient communication during the integration process. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, configurations can be saved as JSON files and conveniently

SANUS in-wall full-motion TV mount

HOLOPLOT has announced the launch of its latest product innovation - X2. Setting a new standard in sound reinforcement for speech-based and multi-content applications, X2 is the logical next development in HOLOPLOT's ongoing commitment to delivering unrivalled sound control - now for more applications than ever before. Wrapped in a more compact hardware design, HOLOPLOT’s newly conceived X2 embraces the same core technologies of 3D Audio-Beamforming and Wave Field Synthesis as the multi-award winning X1, making it more accessible for integration projects across a variety of sectors.

The highly anticipated X2 is optimised for speech applications and builds on achievements from HOLOPLOT’s formative years, when tests of a technology prototype resulted in some of the highest Speech Transmission Index (STI) measurements ever recorded on a train station platform. The Modul 30 (MD30) is a Matrix Array loudspeaker, incorporating 30 full-range drivers in a single layered matrix arrangement. X2 taps into intelligent software-based optimization of sound system design and performance, as well as guaranteeing seamless and customizable integration.

For the conceptualisation of the product, HOLOPLOT brought in Klas Dalbjorn as Product Manager, informing its development via

Collaboration among colleagues has never been easiis crucial. He states, “It is a very simple control system that can send codes on a schedule – ideal for signage applications where you need to turn displays on or off at given times.”

shared via email.

The upgraded software streamlines trouble-shooting procedures, providing integrators with a smoother programming experience. Programming codes, including IR codes, can now be easily copied and pasted, significantly accelerating the setup process. “The Techconnect Control is a wolf in sheep's clothing,” explains Stuart Lockhart, Director of Vision. “With its simplicity, it can function as a basic controller, or, for more advanced users, multiple codes can be assigned to each button and sent in various ways.” Lockhart emphasises the system's applicability for signage applications, where precise scheduling

The new software is developed specifically for the upcoming Techconnect Control, scheduled for release in December, but Vision ensures backward compatibility with the current product version, further extending the value to existing users. To ensure a flawless launch, Vision is actively seeking integrators to participate in road-testing the beta version of the software. Interested parties are encouraged to provide valuable feedback by reaching out to sales@visionaudiovisual.com.

HOLOPLOT breaks new ground with latest product innovation

his 30 year career in pro audio, and pulling on his experience at Lab.gruppen and Powersoft.

“When setting out to design X2 it was obvious we needed to stay

houses of worship. Form factor and power to size ratio were key considerations from the get-go. X2 is optimized for speech applications, but can reliably sup-

Sanus is launching the VIWLF128-B2 Large In-Wall Full-Motion mount. The mount is a premium-grade solution for installers looking to provide the ultimate viewing experience for screens ranging from 42"-85”. This mount sits practically flush with the wall when recessed and features an enclosure that provides ample and convenient AV device storage while maintaining a professional aesthetic. “Installers know how challenging it can be to provide clients with a great viewing experience while also making installed components nearly invisible,” said Dean Carroll, Sanus international sales director - consumer. “This mount brings together our full-motion capability, quality and in-wall storage for a clever all-in-one solution that saves time and money on TV installation projects.” The VIWLF128-B2 offers the high-quality mount features for which Sanus is well known. The mount swivels up to 67° left and right, reducing glare and enhancing the viewing angle. With 28" of extension, it maximises the swivel availability even for larger TVs while retracting to sit just 12mm (0.5") from the wall. Users will find it effortless to find the perfect viewing angle, thanks to Sanus’ exclusive patented VirtualAxis fingertip tilt technology,

The SANUS VIWLF128-B2 Large In-Wall Full-Motion mount is available now.

which allows users to tilt the TV up or down with just the touch of a finger — no tools are required. Finally, the included in-wall box makes use of the unused wall space behind the display for storage of streaming, power, or audio components that are practically invisible. The in-wall box fits between two 16" studs and features the features the

provisions to connect services like audio and power (where applicable) and has six attachment slots with Velcro tabs to secure components neatly.

Boom Collaboration launches ‘intelligent’ video bar

The US-based manufacturer has unveiled the Boom AURA, a stylish video bar with built-in AI functions designed to deliver superior meetings. The Boom AURA offers 4K Ultra HD picture quality, 10x digital zoom and a wide 120-degree field of view. AI functions include highly responsive facial detection and sound source localisation providing intelligent auto-framing and voice-tracking.

Six digital array mics with six meters of pickup ensure crisp high-fidelity audio and an optimal intuitive response. An 8MP

hardware that makes for better meetings. Simply: That’s the view of Fredrik Hörnkvist who set-up Boom Collaboration with co-founder Holli Hulett in 2020.

“There’s little doubt the popularity of video bars continues to rise as they provide a perfect solution especially for huddle rooms which are now an integral part of today’s hybrid work trends,” he explained. “The AURA offers many exceptional features to create a complete conferencing solution combining stylish design with high performance and ease of use.”

video bars might not be the ‘holy grail’ of conferencing for every environment, especially very large rooms. “Despite their growing popularity video bars have limitations especially in larger rooms where people might be sat a long way back,” Hulett highlighted. “PTZ cameras with optical zoom offer the ultimate visual performance and when paired with our GEMINI expandable wireless audio system, for example, it’s often a better experience. We have also just introduced the Boom GOJO multi-camera controller which makes it easy to add a new dimension to conference meetings and live events by utilising more than just one PTZ camera.”

The highly anticipated X2 is optimised for speech applications and builds on achievements from HOLOPLOT’s formative years, when tests of a technology prototype resulted in some of the highest Speech Transmission Index (STI) measurements ever recorded on a train station platform.

in line with HOLOPLOT’s Matrix Array principles. We wanted to bring the same unprecedented digital control over sound achieved with X1 and translate it to delivering unsurpassed intelligibility and directionality for typical install use cases such as auditoria, PA/VA applications, or

port music content reproduction,” says Dalbjorn.

X2 is specifically engineered to tackle longstanding acoustic issues, significantly decreasing the need for acoustic treatment,

continued on page 13

She concluded: “Boom Collaboration provide solutions for all room types, from home workers to the biggest boardrooms - raising the bar in performance and convenience, whether that’s all-in-one or more powerful PTZ camera technologies. The popularity of bars and cameras remain high.”

CMOS sensor is combined with plug-and-play functionality and a standard three-year warranty. The all-in-one AURA delivers a smart professional user experience backed by intelligent

The AURA joins the Boom UNO vertical video bar as part of an expanding portfolio, with further product developments in the pipeline. However, both Hörnkvist and Hulett insist

continued from page 11 other demanding settings without compromising performance or longevity. Whether placed in a tropical resort, a humid indoor pool area, or large outdoor congregation spaces, the MD30 module delivers consistent, high-quality audio performance, no matter the climate or conditions.

HOLOPLOT breaks new ground with latest product innovation

by mitigating unwanted reflections, ensuring clear and consistent audio experiences. With the ability to be discreetly positioned behind acoustically transparent screens or wall panels, X2 preserves the architectural integrity of any space, while HOLOPLOT's optimization algorithms counteract transmission loss. X2 boasts a surprisingly compact size without compromising on the exceptional sound control that defines HOLOPLOT. The simple, intuitive mounting frame of X2 allows for clean and efficient installation, making it a practical choice for a variety of environments.

Building on the modular Matrix Array principles of X1, X2 can be scaled effortlessly to meet the demands of a multitude of spaces. Recognizing the crucial role of clear communication in public address and voice alarm applications, X2 is an optimal choice for safety-critical applications such as train stations and airports.

Engineered to endure challenging environments, X2 is built to withstand extreme weather conditions including high temperatures, humidity, and water exposure. This durability allows X2 to be installed in outdoor venues or

Christie launches Hedra all-in-one video wall processor

With the announcement of X2, HOLOPLOT is also releasing a brand-new version of its sound system design software HOLOPLOT Plan. Alongside a number of feature updates, it now enables planning and simulation of HOLOPLOT sound systems with X2 Audio Modules. “X2 embodies our relentless pursuit of audio perfection, continuing our journey to set a new benchmark for sound control and performance,” concludes Michael Kastner, Head of Product at HOLOPLOT. “Our aim is to provide a transformative solution that achieves exceptional speech intelligibility and sound quality in even the most challenging acoustic spaces, while ensuring minimal intrusion on the aesthetics of the project environment. We believe X2 delivers on this and is set to redefine how society engages with sound”

Sound Devices A20-Nexus Go

True-Diversity wireless modules

Sound Devices has announced the launch of the latest additions to its innovative Astral series of wireless audio products: the A20-Nexus Go true-diversity digital wireless receiver, and the A20-TX digital wireless transmitter. Purposefully designed to streamline wireless audio processes, Astral brings innovative features like Sound Devices’ proprietary SpectraBand, Gain-

6-, or 8-channel wireless receiver ideal for mobile rigs and fast-moving production. Users can scan an industry-leading global tuning range of 1691525 MHz with Sound Devices’ SpectraBand technology to quickly find clean and open frequencies anywhere in the world, easily assign transmitters to those frequencies using A20-Nexus Go’s AutoAssign

Christie has announced the launch of Hedra, a video wall processor that offers a secure, all-in-one control room solution. Hedra allows users to make quick and informed decisions with real-time access to data that can be controlled from virtually anywhere. Based on a Linux hardware system and with multi-view KVM, users can securely work remotely or centrally, and easily switch between different on-screen layouts and configurations. With drag-anddrop interfaces and customized layouts, arranging and controlling information displayed on a video wall is user-friendly. Hedra can deliver data up to four UHD displays and supports

video walls up to 32 megapixels in configurations up to 8x2, so operators can make timely and collaborative decisions. “Hedra is a secure, responsive, user-friendly and a TAA-compliant control room solution,” says Bill Zhu, director of product management, Christie. “With Hedra, users can display, arrange, and operate up to 26 inputs from both baseband sources, including HDMI, and IP sources, with latency-free operation.” This control room-in-a-box is ideal for small to medium-sized applications including command and control rooms, broadcast operations, security and surveillance, public utilities, and operations where critical information needs

to be displayed securely and in real-time.

Hedra is available in three models: Hedra Standard, Hedra Pro-KVM, and Hedra Pro-Video, with inputs ranging from nine

on the Standard model to 26 on the Pro-Video model. Hedra is available for order in the Americas now and will be available in APAC and EMEA in September.

d&b Unveils NoizCalc 4.0 for advanced noise mitigation

d&b audiotechnik, a worldwide provider of professional audio technology and AVLM solutions, has announced the availability of NoizCalc 4.0 software, the latest version of its advanced simulation tool designed to accurately predict noise arising from outdoor events equipped with d&b systems. Version 4.0 features a range of enhancements over previous versions, including a new Graphical User Interface and an optimised workflow to ensure an accessible and intuitive user experience. Among the enhancements are greater similarity and alignment with ArrayCalc and the R1 remote control software, so users of those tools will immediately find themselves in a familiar environment, without too steep a learning curve. NoizCalc enables proactive noise management in advance of an event. Using system data from d&b ArrayCalc project files, along with geodata from Google Maps and OpenStreetMap, the software calculates a grid noise

then be dealt with proactively, in advance of the production being setup. “Noise is essentially unwelcome sound, and its effects can be extremely detrimental to an event’s success – even to its long-term viability,” says d&b’s Daniel Belcher, Product Owner NoizCalc, Environmen-

be possible, without adversely affecting coverage in the audience zone. Maybe the size and scale of a planned event, and its corresponding sound system requirements, are too ambitious for a particular location. In any case, NoizCalc gives you the information you need to take the necessary action before

most experienced engineers can be unpleasantly surprised by noise complaints – and when complaints arise, it’s too late. The noise has already become a problem because the event is already happening.”

Forward, and NexLink technology into a versatile ecosystem of portable, rugged, and easy to operate wireless audio devices that function across a variety of live and recorded sound applications anywhere in the world. A20-Nexus Go is available now from MSRP $8495, and A20-TX from MSRP $2450. For more information on the Astral series, please click here.

Designed for the on-the-move production sound professional, A20-Nexus Go is a portable 4-,

function, adjust transmitter gain as needed directly from the receiver using GainForward, and keep tabs on any potential RF difficulties with A20-Nexus Go’s integrated Real Time Frequency Analysis (RTSA) functionality. Combined, this makes A20-Nexus Go a versatile wireless hub packed with forward-thinking

continued on page 14

NoizCalc 4.0 software, the latest version of its advanced simulation tool is designed to accurately predict noise arising from outdoor events equipped with d&b systems.

Developed in collaboration with SoundPLAN, a specialist software developer for environmental noise prediction, NoizCalc 4.0 imports system settings directly from d&b ArrayCalc. The software then offers a choice of international standards for its calculations (CNOSSOS-EU, ISO 9613-2 and Nord2000), depending on the user’s requirement. NoizCalc can model complex systems consisting of many types of d&b loudspeakers, including line arrays, point sources, subwoofer arrays, fill and delay systems. System designers can also simulate adjustments to the way each element of a system is placed and powered to achieve the desired result.

“We are delighted to bring NoizCalc 4.0 to market and push the boundaries of what’s possible in noise prediction for outdoor events,” comments Florian Hahn, d&b Product Manager, Software. “The advanced technology available in this tool ensures that our customers can assess – with great accuracy – the potential for off-site problems that typically remain undetected during the planning phase and only can arise when the event actually takes place. NoizCalc 4.0 is another important part of d&b’s philosophy for providing the highest level of transparency and confidence to all parties involved in the planning phase of an event and enabling the creation of an outstanding experience.”

map, which accurately predicts any potential noise issues in the surrounding neighbourhood. NoizCalc allows the user to identify, at the design stage, any potential noise issues – the advantage being that these can

tal Acoustics. “It may be that a slight rotation of the stage is enough to avoid a problem, but this knowledge is only useful before the stage is built. Or perhaps some adjustment to the loudspeaker system design will

a potential problem becomes a real – and very likely expensive – problem.” He continues, “Without NoizCalc, you’re back to relying on experience and expertise, and while there’s a great deal of that out there, even the

Sound Devices A20-Nexus Go True-Diversity wireless modules

continued from page 13 features that can replace multiple devices in any crowded production sound bag. “We created A20-Nexus Go based on the feedback of our users in the field – professionals looking for a portable wireless solution that could deliver these features in a compact, easy-to-use format,” said Sound Devices CEO Matt Anderson. “A20-Nexus Go is ready to go when you are, easy to adapt to any situation, and delivers when it counts across a variety of wireless use cases.”

The A20-TX digital wireless transmitter utilises a combination of innovative technologies and intuitive compatibility to make it a versatile, easily adaptable digital wireless transmitter. Built to offer a wider range of input compatibility than any other transmitter on the market, A20-TX serves equally well with 2- or 3-wire lavs, dynamic and phantom powered microphones, balanced line-level sources, AES digital mics, and musical instruments. A20-TX utilizes the same high headroom mic preamp from Sound Devices’ 8-Series mixer-recorders – an industry first in a digital wireless transmitter – thus guaranteeing high-quality sonic purity with a minimum of noise. Multiple A20TX transmitters can be controlled remotely by Astral-series wireless receivers utilizing Sound Devices’ long-range NexLink remote wireless control technology, and gain can be adjusted directly from the receiver using GainForward. Ensuring long-term ease of use, A20TX has a 12-hour battery life and is compatible with both standard and rechargeable AA batteries.

Loewe introduces the bild i.77 expanded screen

“A20-TX is the culmination of years of development and innovation in wireless transmitter technology from both the Sound Devices and Audio Ltd. teams," said Anderson. "As a result, it is a highly engineered tool perfect for building out your wireless audio system, and functions perfectly alongside our Astral series receivers. With the Astral series, we set out to design a family of wireless audio products that could rise to the challenges facing audio professionals in the RF realms,” Anderson concluded. “The combined experience of the Sound Devices, Audio Ltd. and larger Audiotonix teams enabled us to push these technologies forward in ways that we believe will be meaningful and useful for professionals for decades to come.”

Expanding the award-winning bild i series of luxury TVs, Loewe Technology has introduced an impressive 77-inch model (196 cm), the Loewe bild i.77 dr+. Equipped with the latest display credentials and first-class hardware, the Loewe bild i.77 dr+ boasts breathtaking picture quality, an intuitive interface, state-of-the-art OLED technology, and inimitable signature design.

The Loewe bild i.77 dr+ offers high-contrast images and an impressive colour spectrum thanks to its latest Ultra HD OLED panel supported by HLG, HDR 10 and Dolby Vision. Based on algorithms optimised over decades, the Loewe bild i.77 achieves a natural, harmonious picture with pinpoint accuracy. Alongside an intuitive and elegant interface, the Loewe bild i77 dr+ comes with a 1TB hard disk recorder as standard to deliver effortless recording or pausing of live TV shows. Thanks to the integrated voice assistant as well as buttons on the stylish remote-control, operation of the bild i.77 is seamless and hassle-free while boasting extensive selection of native apps such as Apple TV+, YouTube, Zattoo, HD+, Netflix, Amazon Prime, DAZN, FIFA+ and Disney+.

In addition to the integrated hidden soundbar, the smart TV all-rounder can be expanded with the Loewe home cinema sets 553 and 531, the Loewe klang bar5 mr with the klang sub5 or the soundbar Loewe klang bar3 mr to deliver impressive, room-filling cinema sound. Thanks to the open multi-room systems DTS Play-Fi, Apple AirPlay and Google Cast, additional Loewe klang mr speakers can be integrated to form a sublime

Colore Digital Imaging goes mobile

Colore Digital Imaging has joined the growing number of film and television production facilities, post-production houses and broadcasters choosing Leader (www.leader.co.jp/en) test instruments as their master reference tools. The company has invested in a Leader LV5350 ZEN Series 12G/HD/SD-SDI video waveform monitor, supplied via Leader channel partner Thameside TV. Colore founder Vincenzo Onorato began his film and television industry career in 2008 as a Kodak Lab technician. After four years of experience in film print and development, he began studying his cinematography and post-production at the SNCI Film School in Florence before becoming become a professional colourist. He moved to London in 2015 where he continued his career in digital imaging, working on set as a DIT for high-end TV productions. His most recent credits include Heartstopper (Netflix), Criminal Record (Apple TV+), and Industry 3 (HBO/ BBC).

“We needed a reference instrument that we could depend on for high precision signal measurement, robust build quality and portability,” he comments. “I have used various test and mea-

surement tools over the years and am particularly impressed by the LV5350 which fully meets our requirements. I'm currently working on a fastpaced four-part show produced mostly on location with two operators using handheld cameras. Having the luxury to work with Leader’s CINELITE, CINEZONE, waveform and vectorscope displays for both cameras simultaneously is a huge advantage when I need to trim the exposure immediately before a shoot and make sure the two cameras match.

“The LV5350 incorporates a highly versatile toolset which ensures we can make all the checks and measurements we need at our studio base or on location. The standard model can operate from low-voltage DC or mains power so we can work practically anywhere. This, together with the V-mount battery interface, means we can be fully confident about picture quality and keep the relationship with the DP strong. Having all the tools we need in a compact unit also allows us to be independent of cloud connectivity. That is a great plus when op-

multiroom system. These active Loewe audio components all support Dolby Atmos with up to 5.1.2. surround channels as well as HDMI eARC for extended audio formats with up to an

signature design, the Loewe bild i.77 dr+ integrates harmoniously into any interior space. Offering class-leading flexibility, the bild i77 can be flat on the wall with the tiltable Loewe wall mount,

65 cm). Loewe bild i.77 dr+ with floor2ceiling stand Loewe bild i.77 dr+ with floor stand flex The Loewe bild i.77 dr+, including the wall mount universal stand,

erating beyond reach of urban IP networks or are trying to work in a Wi-Fi shadow. Leader test instruments also have the great advantage of being future proof, giving us the freedom to invest in specialized options as and when we need them.

“Recording it right first time ensures that projects don’t incur additional costs associated with retakes and technical fixes in postproduction,” adds Kevin Salvidge, Sales Engineering Manager at Leader Europe.

“The LV5350, with its enhanced CINEZONE and CINELITE real-time false-colour exposure tools, ensures that issues are resolved before recordings take place. “The LV5350 has become the instrument of choice for digital imaging technicians here in Europe and worldwide,” says Thameside TV sales manager Chris Margrave-Gregory. “We gave Vincenzo a thorough demo when he visited us at our Shepperton headquarters and he was clearly impressed by the instrument’s versatility, user-friendly operation and logical control interface.”

Leader LV5350 waveform monitors provide all the SDI facilities of Leader’s top-of-the-range

impressive 1,360 watts of total music power.

The Loewe bild i.77 dr+ is a true centerpiece from all angles thanks to its 360° design with lacquered, fabric-covered back panel and hidden cable routing with a subtle magnetic cover. Thanks to this elegant,

free-standing on the Loewe floor stand flex, or free-floating on the Loewe floor2ceiling stand. This spectacular installation solution in the form of a floor-ceiling rod can be individually adjusted depending on the ceiling height (up to 2.90 meters) and the desired TV height position (from

will be available at authorised retailers now at a recommended retail price of £5,999.*

* Recommended retail price by Loewe Technology GmbH

LV5600. These include engineering-related features such as test pattern generation, closed-caption monitoring and CIE chroma chart. Each LV5350 also incorporates Leader's intuitive CINEZONE and CINELITE which are familiar to many camera crews, editors and colorists. All features are accessible from the front control panel, augment-

ed by a 1920 x 1080 resolution 7 inch touchscreen TFT LCD monitor. Optional features available for this model include 4K/ UHD HDR support, SDI-embedded audio analysis, SDI signal generation, CIE chroma chart, customized display layout, tally display, extended chroma vector display and closed-caption display. Also available is a focus de-

The Loewe bild i.77 dr+ offers high-contrast images and an impressive colour spectrum thanks to its latest Ultra HD OLED panel supported by HLG, HDR 10 and Dolby Vision.

Colore founder Vincenzo Onorato with Leader LV5350 12G video waveform monitor.

tection algorithm which enables the instrument to sense edges across a very wide range of image contrast levels.

Why millennials feel most ostracised in hybrid meetings

Research from Jabra shows that millennials are over 4 times as likely as Boomers to feel left out in online meetings. Over half (55%) of colleagues said they feel that video helps them feel as involved as when they are in the office. Some 55% agree that colleagues with video on seem more engaged/involved in meetings than those with video off.

After years of resisting, many workers are now back in the workplace, bringing with them the return of in-person meetings. In fact,58% of all meetings are now held in meeting rooms, with roughly half of them involving online participants. The rise of hybrid work has resulted in new challenges in terms of inclusivity and the understanding of meeting room technology according to Jabra’s 2023 edition of its Hybrid Ways of Working Global Report conducted amongst 304 UK respondents (1,845 people in the total of six key markets worldwide). Jabra’s new report uncovers the state of meetings in hybrid work, including the largest barriers and opportunities for employees and organisations. As hybrid work continues to impact employees' habits and behaviors, leaders need to rethink their overall working models to ensure effective collaboration.

Bridging the generational gap

We are currently living in an era of a multi-generational workforce with very different life experiences and perspectives. Whilst technology and autonomy can go a long way in enabling inclusive, productive, and creative meetings, there are still other dynamics to look out for which can cause people to feel left out. According to Jabra’s research, when asked how often they feel left out of the conversation in online meetings, millennials were over 4 times as likely as boomers to say they feel this way. Similarly, Gen X and boomers were more than two times as likely to say they never feel left out of a conversation.

Although millennials are ‘digital natives’, they are also some of the youngest and least experienced employees, meaning they may lack the confidence to speak up in meetings. Leaders must be mindful of these intergenerational dynamics and effectively use meeting technology to create a more inclusive hybrid meeting culture. This gives each employee the confidence to share fresh ideas and actively participate in discussions in a way that best suits them.

Using video can have a positive impact

Should you have cameras on or off in an online meeting? When it comes to presenting ourselves as professionals in online environments, the verdict from employees is clear: using video can have a positive and empowering impact on your career. Jabra’s research found 55% of employees believe that using video impacts how they perceive their colleagues in meetings. They agreed that their colleagues using video seem more competent, more engaged, and more trustworthy in meetings than those who do not. However, similar to the way that millennials feel left out in online meetings, the research also found that they feel pressured to have their cameras on.

When employees can’t join a meeting in a way that works for them, remotely or in-person, employers run the risk of exacerbating existing issues within their teams, such as inequalities or negative social dynamics. Therefore, before leaders create mandatory video use policies, they must first be aware of the challenges that those policies can create.

Accessibility and training can drive technology adoption

At the beginning of the pandemic, employees all over the world were forced to adapt overnight to fully remote meetings. Even though employees are increasingly returning to the office, there is still at least one person joining from a remote location. According to the research, not enough has been done to support those returning to the office to get familiar with meeting room technology. In fact, 45% of employees say they’re hesitant to take part in meetings in a meeting room because they’re less comfortable with the technology compared to just using their own laptop. As organisations around

the world continue to upgrade their office meeting rooms, it’s essential that comprehensive training and guidance for employees is provided. By ensuring employees can use the technology, business leaders can maximise the benefits of their enhanced meeting rooms and foster a seamless transition into the hybrid work environment.

Holger Reisinger, SVP at Jabra said: “As we all know, hybrid work is now the norm for millions of knowledge workers worldwide, bringing with it new challenges to the way we collaborate with one another. While employees speak to the well-being benefits of flexible work, many employers have struggled to lead widely distributed teams. Moving forward, it’s essential that leaders give employees the tools they need and allow them to join meetings from where it best suits them. This will instill trust, empower decision-making, and allow the best ideas to rise to the top.”

About the Survey

The Survey was conducted online within the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Poland and Japan by Toluna on behalf of Jabra from April 13, 2023 – April 21, 2023 among 1,845 knowledge workers. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. The survey includes respondents from the following generations: Gen Z (ages 18-26), Millennials (27-42), Gen X (43-58), and Baby Boomers (59-77). Download a copy of the full report here:

https://www.jabra.com/hybridwork/2023

How to win an AV News Award!

With nominations for the 2024 AV News Awards now open, it is now time now the time to plan your Awards strategy to give you the best chance of success. Here is our advice about completing your entries; the best categories for you to consider entering (including any new ones); details of sponsorship opportunities; specifics of the AV News Awards presentation ceremony.

About the AV News Awards

The AV News Awards have a special place in the global audio-visual industry, being focused on the people and communities that make the business work. The AV News Awards recognise the contribution made by the individuals in the labs and R&D centres, the sales and marketing teams and those involved in training and support for the technologies, products and services that comprise AV solutions. The Awards also recognise excellence in AV technologies and in the channel that delivers them to market. AV News is delighted that the Awards always attract a strong group of nominees and would like to extend its thanks in advance to all those who undertake the task of filling in the forms, and to the Award sponsors who again made the whole thing possible. We have done our bit by making the entry process as straightforward as possible

So, who won last year – and why?

To give you some clues for compiling your Awards Nomination, here is a flashback to last year’s Award Winners. Remember to complete the web form as fully as possible and do not hesitate to supply supplementary resources if you have them!

Last year’s winners of AV News Awards

Personal Awards

AV Sales Professional of the Year

Chris Liebrand of RunTec

Chris Liebrand, CTS entered the AV industry in 1996 as an apprentice. During his career, he has worked on several projects including the very first videowall for Coca Cola in Piccadilly Circus, Sandy Lane Hotel in Barbados, Apple Retail and Corporate Locations worldwide, and 50+ Zoom Rooms for Sophos across the UK, EMEA, Asia and the USA. After his AV business was acquired, he joined Runtech in late 2019 as Director of AV and was promoted to MD in 2022. Although joining during COVID, Chris has secured and helped manage over 7.2 million turnover, from both existing and new business development.

AV Support Professional of the Year

Kevin Kandula of Datapath

Kevin has worked in operations and technical support for over 25 years. He began his career

with Loughborough Sound Images (LSI) working as a Test Technician. Kevin joined Datapath in 2008, After various roles from senior electronic engineer to operation testing. His natural ability for problem-solving and desire to help people made him a perfect addition to the Datapath support team as 2nd line technical support. Kevin has been promoted to UK support team leader, he is involved in technical queries reported globally, the first point of contact if issues cannot be resolved within the support department.

AV Marketing Professional of the Year

Jessica Golding of Absen

After graduating from Birmingham City University in 2017, Golding worked in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) before moving to projector/monitor brand BenQ as a marketing executive, where she worked for ten months before being promoted to marketing manager. Jessica joined Absen as European brand manager in February 2021 with a quick promotion to European brand & marketing director, responsible for raising brand awareness, as well as the range of solutions it can offer to corporate, events, DOOH, sports, broadcast and virtual production customers. Since joining Absen, Golding has considerably increased its overall media presence, with double the amount of press releases and case studies generated and sent to press, compared to five years prior.

Outstanding Achievement in AV

Royce Lye of BenQ

Royce has hands-on experience of advancements in key product lines such as the rise in popularity of educational technology. BenQ was an early adopter for interactive displays, Royce has overseen the progression of interactive displays from product development in an early market to now a major education solutions provider in the UK and globally. Royce is an advocate for internal personal development, supporting colleagues in furthering their careers within BenQ and mentoring through their development, regardless of their gender. Royce’s understanding of the industry, technologies and educational background underpins his ability to strategically plan and tactically roll-out projects securing yearon-year growth and profitability to ensure stable and secure employment for all the team and their direct families. In the initial years of his career, Royce has been an early pioneer of channel and brand marketing for the

de facto PC audio brand in the early 90's. This experience is still useful today and contributes to his success transitioning from Marketing Executive to Managing Director

Technology, Project, and Organisation Awards

AV Project of the Year (Education)

BenQ – Bus Education Roadshow

The BenQ Bus Education Roadshow took training, upskilling and new product innovation directly to the doors of education establishments in the UK at a time when exhibitions, training courses and conferences were declining. Inhabiting a refurbished double-decker bus, this immersive, collaborative showroom visited 24 schools, academies, colleges and universities around the UK, covering a total of 4,567 miles in 2022.

AV Project of the Year (Commercial)

DigiLED for the O2 Arena

The 0.25 km LED ribbon upgrade at The O2 has more green credentials than Greta Thunburg. 90% of the original screens’ structure was retained and modified to mount the new high-brightness, energy-efficient digiTHIN product, reducing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint. High-efficiency LEDs were used at a greater pixel density, resulting in a screen that burnt less electricity whilst being brighter and providing 7,786% increase in resolution. Deployment of digiLED’s proprietary energy saving ZEUS technology (Zero Energy Usage System), meant the display’s standby power-burn reduces from 130,000 kWh per annum to zero, with a cost saving of

tens of thousands of pounds.

AV Project of the Year (Live / Digital Events)

Panasonic for the Van Goch Frameless Tour

Frameless is a new cultural, immersive art experience, housed in an incredible 30,000 square foot venue in the heart of London. Art seeps into every space, with visitors able to walk in the pictures, seeing every brush stroke and splash of colour as they journey through four distinctive galleries, each with a different type of immersive technology. Using more than 50 state-of-the-art Panasonic projectors, delivering 479 million pixels with million lumens of light, Frameless elevates traditional art to a new level, accompanied by breath-taking music from 158 surround sound speakers. It’s an immersive experience that’s inspiring visitors of all ages.

Digital Signage Innovation of the Year

LED Studio for Aegis range

The Aegis 1.2 mm is the industry’s first freestanding, fine-pixel pitch, ultra-high-bright LED display kiosk solution for indoor and outdoor applications. Available in four sizes 57”, 67”, 77” and 85” and featuring a pixel pitch of just 1.2mm, The Aegis is a technological breakthrough that places fine-pixel pitch LED displays into the DOOH market for the first time. Engineered by LED technology experts at The LED Studio and manufactured by its display partner VOD Visual, The Aegis range boasts sustainable features including low power consumption and cool operation, providing users with a cost-effective LED kiosk solution that will replace outdated LCD

units.

Collaboration Innovation of the Year

Logitech for LogiDock

Logi Dock is an all-in-one speakerphone and docking station, designed to simplify personal workspaces and boost productivity. This unique product is the ultimate homeworking companion, offering a flexible speakerphone and speaker for music, alongside a single connection point for all desktop peripherals, enabling fewer cords, dongles and distracting clutter on the desk – making room for a cleaner workspace and greater productivity. It features two USB-A ports, three USB-C downstream ports, a USB-C upstream port, a display port, a HDMI port and Bluetooth pairing.

Education Technology Innovation of the Year

Kramer Quicklaunch

Kramer audio-visual experiences power creativity, collaboration, and engagement. From AVSM to advanced cloud-based communication, collaboration and control solutions, Kramer creates audio-visual experiences that are more engaging, more inclusive and more connected than ever before. Headquartered in the heart of Startup Nation –Tel Aviv, Israel with international locations, Kramer’s audio-visual experts are designing the future of engagement technology. Physical and digital boundaries have blurred. But no matter how hybrid our world becomes, their desire for real, human connection will never cease.

AV Sustainability Innovation of the Year

CTOUCH

CTOUCH is the most sustainable touchscreen manufacturer

in all of Europe. “We’re devoted to reducing our CO2 footprint by 60% and increasing our product circularity by 25% before 2025. We strongly believe businesses need to be transparent about their environmental impact in order to achieve real progress. We put our belief into action by introducing a myriad of sustainability initiatives. With these tools we’re spreading awareness about our products’ CO2 impact. We’re building trust and triggering dialogue on (re)using our touchscreens. Internally, these tools empower us to make sustainable choices concerning future products, benefiting both the environment and our customer”

AV Manufacturer/Developer of the Year

Avocor

Avocor is one of the fastest-growing interactive display and video conferencing companies, creating real-world collaboration solutions that enable people to come together easily, in-person or remotely. Avocor has been at the forefront of developing technology to enable a fully hybrid workforce, with a strategic focus on creating new problem-solving products and working with leading technology partners to enhance meeting efficiency and equity.

AV Reseller/Integrator of the Year

Project Audio Visual Project Audio Visual consults, designs, installs, commissions, maintains and supports modern workspace technology. They have become the ‘go to’ business that helps workplaces embrace the hybrid transition and

AV News Awards 2024

join the Microsoft Teams ecosystem to maintain and evolve their digital workflow. The company has supplied and delivered over 5000 Teams Rooms, a remarkable achievement for a modest business that has seen record-breaking growth in the past three years.

AV News Editor’s Choice

Zoom Video Communications

Zoom Video Communications provides videotelephony and online chat services through a cloud-based peer-to-peer software platform and is used for teleconferencing, telecommuting, distance education and social relations. Zoom was founded by Eric Yuan, a former corporate vice president for Cisco Webex. In June 2011, the company raised $3 million of seed money from WebEx founder Subrah Iyar, former Cisco SVP and Gen-

eral Counsel Dan Scheinman, and venture capitalists Matt Ocko, TSVC, and Bill Tai. In May 2012, the company changed its name to Zoom, influenced by Thacher Hurd's children's book Zoom City. In September 2012, Zoom launched a beta version that could host conferences with up to 15 video participants. In November 2012, the company signed Stanford University as its first customer. The service was launched in January 2013 after the company raised a $6 million Series A funding round from Qualcomm Ventures, Yahoo! founder Jerry Yang, WebEx founder Subrah Iyar, and former Cisco SVP and General Counsel Dan Scheinman. Zoom launched version 1.0 of the program allowing the maximum number of participants per conference to be 25. By the end of its first month, Zoom

AV News Awards 2024 Categories

For the sake of consistency, the majority of Award Categories remain unchanged from year-to-year, but some changes are inevitable in a dynamic, and even volatile. industry. For 2024 two new categories have been created, with full details below.

AV News Personal Awards

AV Sales Professional of the Year

AV Support Professional of the Year

AV Marketing Professional of the Year

Outstanding Achievement in AV

AV News Technology, Solution and Project Awards

AV Project of the Year (Education)

AV Project of the Year (Commercial)

AV Project of the Year (Xtended Reality)- NEW

AV Project of the Year (Audio) – NEW

Sustainability Innovation of the Year

Digital Signage Innovation of the Year

Collaboration Innovation of the Year

AV News Special Awards

AV Reseller/Integrator of the Year

AV Manufacturer/Developer of the Year

AV Distributor of the Year – NEW

AV News Awards 2024: Entry Criteria

Personal Awards

AV Technologist of the Year

The AV Technologist of the Year recognises an outstanding achievement by an individual in advancing AV technology. The Award is open to nominations for individuals responsible for the development of a new technology, solution or application, and which is either currently available on the market or which will be demonstrated as a working prototype up to and including ISE 2024.

AV Sales Professional of the Year

The AV Sales Professional of the Year recognises the contribution that the individuals who lead or make up the sales teams of resellers, integrators, distributors or manufacturers make to advancement of the AV industry. The winner of the Award must demonstrate success in AV sales over a period of at least two years, a professional approach and innovation in sales technique.

AV Support Professional of the Year

Support plays a vital role in customer retention and winning repeat business at every level in the channel. The AV Support Professional of the Year Award recognises the importance of the support and service functions, and is open to representatives of resellers, integrators, distributors and manufacturers. The winner must be able to demonstrate a commitment to the support role, and to provide evidence of positive customer interaction.

AV Marketing Professional of the Year

Communication of the benefits and applications of a continuing stream of new products, solutions and services have seen the marketing function increase in influence. The AV Marketing Professional of the Year Award recognises excellence in marketing and marketing communications. The winner must be able to demonstrate effectiveness, creativity and success over a period of not less than two years and innovation in marketing communications.

Outstanding Achievement in AV

The Outstanding Achievement in AV Award recognises the product of a lifetime contribution to the development of the AV industry. The winner will hold, or will have held, a senior position within the industry for not less than five years, and will be a well-known figure at the manufacturer, distributor or reseller level.

AV News Technology, Solution and Project Awards AV Project of the Year (Education)

Education applications have seen a succession of technology paradigm shifts that have teaching and learning fundamentally. These transitions are still in progress with the move to collaborative and personalised learning. The Award for the Education Project of the Year recognises quality, service and innovation in designing and delivering education technology to education clients. The winning project will acknowledge advances in the method and practice of teaching and have regard to anticipated outcomes. The winner will be awarded to the reseller or integrator responsible for deploying the nominated learning solution in the last year.

AV Project of the Year (Commercial)

Commercial AV has assumed new levels of importance in environments as diverse as SMBs trough to enterprises and public-sector organisations. Whether through improving decision making and operational efficiency with collaborative technologies or developing customer communication with digital signage, AV technologies are fast becoming mission critical. The commercial Project of the Year rewards innovation, sustainability and effectiveness and will be awarded to the reseller or integrator responsible for deploying the nominated commercial solution in the last calendar year.

Digital Signage Innovation of the Year

As one of the hottest sectors in AV, the Digital Signage sector has seen continuous innovation in displays, interactivity, media players, audience monitoring and analysis. This category is open to developers, manufacturers and systems integrators involved in developing digital signage for clients in institutional and commercial markets including retail, transportation, stadia and other entertainment venues, museums and galleries.

Collaboration Technology of the Year

The importance of collaboration in in education and the workspace is acknowledged in this Award, which is open to manufacturers, software developers and others active in meeting room systems, video and audio solutions, networking and workspace facilities (including technology, design, environment and sustainability). Innovations must have been introduced to the market or demonstrated as a prototype in the year to ISE 2018 also qualify for inclusion.

AV News Special Awards

AV Reseller / Integrator of the Year

The AV Reseller / Integrator of the Year Award recognises excellence in the transaction of AV business — skilled specialists delivering the right product or solution for their customers’ needs, with purchase decisions based on appropriate advice, installed with a high degree of competence and supported with due consideration. The winner of this Award will be required to demonstrate effectiveness at each stage of the process, with evidence provided in the form of projects completed within the last 12 months.

AV Distributor of the Year

The AV Distributor of the Tear has been chosen for its role in taking AV technologies and solutions into new markets and applications. The Award judges will also have regard to the marketing and user adoption functions carried out by a distributor on behalf of manufacturer partners, together with the service infrastructure they provide to grow the market through finance, user education and support.

AV Manufacturer / Developer of the Year

The AV Manufacturer / Developer of the Year is chosen on the basis of innovation is R&D, commercial success in extending the market for AV solutions and progress for driving new applications of technology. Due diligence will be applied to financial data and employment policies. Official company documents (e.g., annual report) will usually be required in support of a nomination.

Award Nominations Deadline

Nominations for the AV News Awards 2024 should be submitted via the web form provided, which was activated on the 1st August 2023. Nominations in the Personal Award Categories (Technologist of the Year, Sales Professional of the Year, Support Professional of the Year, Marketing Professional of the Year and Outstanding Achievement in AV) are again free to enter. Nominations by AV News Award Sponsors in any category are also free.

All other nominations in the Technology, Project and Organisation Categories are this year subject to an Administration Fee of £120 plus VAT, per nomination for entry into the Awards only, or £195 plus VAT if you would like to support your nomination by attending the Awards Presentation at ISE 2024. The Nomination form and seats at the ceremony can be booked here: INSERT URL

Please complete a separate form for each Nomination and apply the Captcha code provided Submit when finished. You will receive an email as proof of receipt. The closing date for submission of entries is the 1st of December 2023.

Please complete the entry form as fully as possible. If you would like to supply supplementary materials, please submit the entry form and add details of additional materials in the space provided. The additional materials should be supplied by email or Dropbox to sue. pritchard@avnewsonline.com .

Maritime Kramer has announced its range of advanced AVoIP streaming and control solutions

Kramer has announced its range of advanced AVoIP streaming and control solutions have been used to deliver seamless, mission-critical, real-time data and 4K video navigation systems for the 50 x 12 meter ‘Carmona’ fishing vessel, ensuring safe and smooth fishing and communications through some of the world’s busiest waterways.

In partnership with Furuno – a globally renowned marine electronics company specialising in manufacturing fish finders, radar systems and navigation instruments – Kramer’s award-winning ‘Kramer Control’ and ‘KDS AVoIP’ streaming solu-

ing vessels, the ‘Smart Bridge’ provides the captain and crew members aboard the ‘Carmona’ (and other vessels), with the ability to seamlessly access and view pertinent data and video from a variety of sources, such as radars, ECDIS, chart plotters, echo sounders, sonars, CCTV camera systems, and alarm and control systems.

Harboured in Sweden, and with trips sometimes lasting days –sailing across the North Sea, the Norwegian Sea, Baltic Sea, Kattegatt and Skagerra – safety and visibility, both above and below sea levels – including in identifying suitable fishing areas –

locations on-ship and remotely, with no latency. In addition, it was essential that there are flexible viewing options and control, together with ease of use to ensure smooth operations. Highly versatile, Furuno Smart Bridge with Kramer allows for viewing and control via touchscreen panels, one or more monitors on the videowall, or remotely via a tablet or smartphone. Additionally, it can be used for the service technician to analyse possible problems onboard. With customisation required to meet the system and ship’s exact needs, the Kramer Nordic team, worked together with Furuno

While Kramer Control – the company’s award-winning cloud-based, enterprise-class AV control platform – is typically more strongly associated with conference room use, with the dedication of the Kramer Development and Tech teams, adjustments were made to meet the exacting demands of the Smart Bridge concept. For example, to allow multiple users to work on the same system from different screens. This allowed everyone on board to have the clear visibility needed for their jobs, and as many as five users can work separately from different stations, using the same system. Using

the crew can follow pertinent data from monitors throughout the ship, with flexible pre-defined layouts on the video wall notifying the crew for specific activities such as fishing, navigation, or docking. The Furuno Smart Bridge is now used every day, with the response from the crew being universally positive, according to Fredrik Gustafsson, Captain of Carmona: “In the beginning, me and my crew were a bit afraid that it would take a long time to learn,” says Fredrik. “But it’s a good and easy system. After just one fishing trip, everyone could handle it and we felt safe handling it. The Smart Bridge system makes it very fast and easy to change the ship’s screens from fishing to navigation, which makes a world of difference for operations and is a big benefit.”

Steen Bødker, Manager at Furuno Sweden, added: “Our Smart Bridge system is based on Kramer KDS encoders and decoders. We tried different systems before we went to the Kramer solution, and we also had worked with Kramer ma-

Project summary Goals

trixes before, but we found that the new KDS system was a more modern and more flexible system. So, we chose that.” Steen, based in Gothenburg and with the company since 1993, also notes the remote monitoring system has had huge added value, enabling the owner of the ship to hook onto the system online through the satellite communication and view all the videos on board the vessel.

This combination of the high level of support and out-of-thebox thinking is what he credits for the project’s ultimate success, making the Smart Bridge system fit for sea. He concludes: “We had a very good experience working with Kramer, both on the sales side and on the technical side. It’s important of course to get support from the sales side when configuring the system, but it’s equally important that our technician was able to get in touch with the Kramer technician to develop the system together. The Smart Bridge system with Kramer is smarter than other systems, which is actually why we call it Smart Bridge.”

tions have been selected as vital components for the ‘Furuno Smart Bridge’, a state-of-the-art bridge control and video presentation system. Designed for fish-

Hospitality

were essential to the project. To achieve its ambitions, the ‘Carmona’ required a cutting-edge, reliable, navigation system viewable in high quality from multiple

across the entire development and installation process of the Carmona, identifying the right solutions and overcoming a series of challenges.

Kramer KDS AVoIP encoders and

video is distributed with 4K quality throughout the internal TV network onboard, with near-zero latency, ensuring

•Display critical, real-time data and video from multiple systems in the bridge and other locations

•Ensure connectivity over long distances with no latency or noise interference

•Enable flexible viewing options and control over operations – onship and remote.

•Customize the system to the ship’s exacting needs

Project scope

•Equip an advanced ship bridge control and video presentation system with the right AVoIP and control solutions to connect and facilitate operations

Value

•Video and data can be viewed and controlled on monitors throughout the ship and remotely

•Excellent 4K quality, with no latency or noise disturbance

•Flexible pre-defined layouts make activities such as fishing, navigation, and docking easier

•The captain and crew were comfortable using the system from day one

•Strong collaboration with Kramer drove the project’s success Solution

•KDS AVoIP streaming solution

•Kramer Control

PPDS delivers freestyle in-room entertainment to mountain resort

PPDS has announced the installation of 286 Chromecast built-in, Netflix-ready, Philips MediaSuite TVs inside the new SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället – one of Sweden’s most popular and picturesque ski resort hotels –providing guests with complete and unrivalled control of their in-room digital entertainment experience. Located in the village of Salen, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the SkiStar Lodge – operated by SkiStar (the biggest ski resort operator in Scandinavia) – is a

leading destination for families, skiers and snowboarders from around the world, boasting more than 45 kilometres of slopes to suit all levels, from beginners to professionals. Just 10 minutes from the Scandinavian Mountains Airport, the SkiStar Lodge has been built with comfort and relaxation in mind, featuring two world class restaurants, a large lounge bar with fireplace seating, sauna, gymnasium, and conferencing facilities, all set within a warm, cosy, rustic, yet airy atmosphere.

With meticulous attention to detail across the entire lodge and its facilities, SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället wanted to complete it’s offering of excellence right down to their guest rooms, with the role of the TV playing a crucial role in its ambitions.

Housing 153 rooms and apartments (over 780 beds), the SkiStar Lodge turned to Nonius and PPDS to create and deliver a tailored, all inclusive ‘state-of-theart’ AV solution to accommodate all current (and future) viewing needs and preferences – such

as streaming – for the ultimate home-away-from-home experience. In total, 286 next generation 4K Philips MediaSuite TVs were selected and installed throughout the Lodge’s full suite of apartments. A key factor in the decision making, Philips MediaSuite TVs remain the only dedicated hospitality TV solution to feature Chromecast built in. Providing significant cost savings to the hotel, Chromecast built-in allows guests to effortlessly cast their favourite content from their preferred streaming

services, directly onto the TV, from their own personal device –whatever their mobile operating system.

Philips MediaSuite TVs also come with Netflix ready, securely linking directly to a guest’s account, and they offer an extensive range of games and apps available via the Google Play store. Using the Nonius HUB connected to PPDS’ exclusive display management platform and the resort’s Effectsoft property management system, each guest can be welcomed with a

personalised message in their native language as soon as they turn on their TV. With security of paramount importance, a secure Wi-Fi connection is made between each guest’s personal device and the TV via an intuitive QR code. Upon checkout, the guest’s account credentials are automatically cleared from the room to ensure absolute data privacy.

continued on page20

Designed for fishing vessels, the ‘Smart Bridge’ provides the captain and crew members aboard the ‘Carmona’ (and other vessels), with the ability to seamlessly access and view pertinent data and video from a variety of sources, such as radars, ECDIS, chart plotters, echo sounders, sonars, CCTV camera systems, and alarm and control systems.

decoders,

PPDS delivers freestyle in-room entertainment to mountain resort

Filip Hector, Managing Director, Nonius Nordics commented:

“I’m pleased to start our partnership with SkiStar on this amazing property in Sälen, SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället, providing them with a seamless casting experience and next generation 4K TV sets from the leading brand Philips, adding information and streaming apps to please the guests at the hotel.” Nils Brovold, Nordic Sales Manager at PPDS, added: “For hotels, meeting the needs of your guests, from the reception, through the facilities, in the dining areas and in their rooms, is paramount for delivering a memorable experience, and achieving positive reviews, recommendations, and return business. A growing part of that is the in-room TV experience and providing the ability for guests to cast content from their own device – whether Ap-

ple, Android, or any other – is key. That’s something Philips MediaSuite offers above and beyond, with Chromecast built in. SkiStar wanted a solution that truly raises the bar for in-room entertainment and, after seeing

and experiencing the benefits for both the guests and for the hotel itself, Philips MediaSuite was the standout choice to meet and fulfil their high ambitions. We’re proud to have supported SkiStar on this exciting project.”

Benefits at a glance:

•Versatile connectivity: PPDS’ in-house management platform enables an effortless connection with the Nonius HUB and the Lodge’s PMS for quick deployment and easy upgrades of new features as they are needed.

•Chromecast built-in: Guests can stream their personal content to the big screen without extra hardware or software configurations, ensuring easy content streaming, device security, and cost-effective maintenance.

Tourism

Christie Inspire laser projectors illuminate Guangdong

•Dynamic information: Guests can be greeted with custom messaging in their native language and can use the displays to view lodge facility information.

•Netflix: Integrated Netflix enables secure, intuitive, wireless access to guests’ own accounts, allowing them to pick up their favourite movies and programs, exactly where they left them.

•Inherently secure: Guest login credentials are automatically cleared upon check out.

Christie has announced that its Inspire Series 1DLP laser projectors have been selected by visitor attractions in China’s southern Guangdong province as their preferred projection system, captivating audiences with vibrant visuals. Over 80 projectors, including the Christie DWU760-iS, DWU860-iS, and DWU960-iS models have been fitted in the China Qiaodu Museum of Overseas Chinese and Jiangmen Local Chronicles Hall in Jiangmen City, as well as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Talent Hub in Guangzhou. These projectors, supplied and installed by Christie’s partner Jianye Display, are equipped with a fixed motorised zoom lens and an IP5X dust-resistant optical engine. The projectors are highly re-

to two dozen Christie DWU760iS and DWU860-iS projectors are used to illuminate a range of digital exhibits throughout the museum. These include projections of the Maritime Silk Road map, enchanting silhouette displays of Chinese emigration, historical portrayals of migration, highlights of overseas Chinese contributions to railroad construction, and projections focusing on Chinese language education, among other engaging installations. At the Jiangmen Local Chronicles Hall, 40 Christie DWU760-iS and DWU860iS laser projectors have graced the exhibition areas offering a comprehensive and systematic showcase of Jiangmen’s history and ongoing development across various aspects, including nature, politics, economy,

for China, Enterprise, Christie, commented: “We are thrilled that visitor attractions in Guangdong province have chosen the Christie Inspire Series for various exhibition zones to enhance the visitor experience. These installations have mesmerized audiences and showcased the many capabilities of this high value and affordable projector series intended for small-tomid-size environments. The combination of stunning visuals and advanced features has created immersive experiences that leave a lasting impact.”

From the smallest meeting rooms to the biggest screens, there’s a Christie projector that fits every application and budget. Our line-up of 1DLP and 3DLP projectors come in a range of brightness and reso-

PPDS has announced the installation of 286 Chromecast built-in, Netflix-ready, Philips MediaSuite TVs inside the new SkiStar Lodge Hundfjället – one of Sweden’s most popular and picturesque ski resort hotels – providing guests with complete and unrivalled control of their in-room digital entertainment experience.

Art

Digital Projection projects immersive Mucha

The Eternal Mucha exhibition features nearly 30 Digital Projection laser projectors which are helping to breathe new life into the celebrated artist’s work over 80 years after his passing. Focusing on the iconic Art Nouveau designs of Alphonse

Mucha, Eternal Mucha is the fourth exhibition by Grand Palais Immersif, a subsidiary of the Réunion des musées nationaux - the state-owned body which manages the iconic Grand Palais in Paris. The body specialises in the production, operation and distribution of immersive, AV-led digital exhibitions. Eternal Mucha utilises state of the art AV technology, particularly large-scale projection mapping, to place the audience

inside the exhibition, which utilises a total projection area of 103,000 pixels, spatial sound mixing and olfactory technologies to create a true multi-sensory experience. “We’ve been testing this format for a while,” says Roei Amit, director of Grand Palais Immersif, who explains that 2020’s Pompeii exhibition - which also made use of Digital Projection technology, featuring 31E-Vision Laser 11000 4K-UHD projectors - served as proof of concept for the kind of immersive projection-mapped shows which have fast become the company’s trademark.

Eternal Mucha in Paris was type of project is a huge collaborative work between technical staff and creatives, so as well as teaming

up with the Mucha Foundation the co-producer of the exhibition: “We worked with various partners and providers including Artisans d’Idées, Lundi8 and Mardi8, who did formidable work on the visual storytelling, and our technical partner ETC Onlyview for the installation.”

The Eterna Mucha integrator was ETC Onlyview who sold the projectors to the Grand Palais Immersif and now acts as a technical service provider for the exhibitions. They deployed Digital Projection’s E-Vision Laser 11000 4K-UHD projectors, which offer class-leading solid-state illumination at an

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garded for their ability to create immersive and amazing experiences that delight guests. “AV technologies, including projections, have been increasingly embraced by visitor attractions in China to bring exhibits to life with dynamic visuals,” said Zhongliang Li, technical director at Jianye Display. “Projection systems offer a versatile and visually stunning way to tell stories, educate, entertain, and create unforgettable moments for visitors. With advanced features like laser illumination, 24/7 operation, quiet operation, and omnidirectional capabilities, the Christie Inspire Series delivers striking visuals to these prestigious venues in Guangdong province, making it the ideal choice for enhancing visitor engagement and enjoyment.”

Opened in early 2023, the China Qiaodu Museum vividly illustrates the struggles and significant contributions of overseas Chinese from Jiangmen. Close

society, and culture. Serving as the city’s premier exhibition hall, it provides visitors with a holistic and organized presentation of Jiangmen’s rich history and current progress.

The Guangdong-Hong

Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area

Talent Hub is a cutting-edge facility that serves as a leading talent centre, providing top-quality services and one-stop solutions for skilled individuals in the Greater Bay Area. The exhibition areas in the Talent Hub are powered by more than a dozen Christie DWU860-iS and DWU960-iS laser projectors, and a Christie 4K7-HS 1DLP laser projector. Colourful projections on a large, curved screen immerse visitors in a vast and lifelike environment, while a separate breathtaking 270-degree panoramic display transports guests to a world where they become an integral part of the projected content. April Qin, senior director of sales

lution options with laser-based illumination, and deliver exceptional image quality, brightness, versatility, and ease-of-use. In China, Christie projection solutions are widely used in several night tourism, theme parks, museums and science centres, education, art, and exhibition venues.

INSERT PIC with caption: Christie has announced that its Inspire Series 1DLP laser projectors have been selected by visitor attractions in China’s southern Guangdong province as their preferred projection system, captivating audiences with vibrant visuals.

Christie has announced that its Inspire Series 1DLP laser projectors have been selected by visitor attractions in China’s southern Guangdong province as their preferred projection system, captivating audiences with vibrant visuals.

Understanding your client's perspective: the art of winning with value

Author Patrick Alexander introduces his innovative guide that presents the art of winning, not as a game of luck, but as a skill that can be learned, improved, and utilized. ‘The Secret of Value Based Convincing Winning’ offers s step-by-step approach to winning using inherent value. The book explores how to leverage this value in every individual, team, or organization. As we have seen in previous AV News articles where we talked about the ‘What, How and Why’ as the most important elements of the ‘Belief System’.

One of the most critical dimensions this book highlights is the ability to empathize and understand your client's perspective. Winning is not about talking or sending proposals alone; it's about immersing oneself in the client's world, understanding their worries, challenges, aspirations, and needs. This dimension is at the heart of value-based winning. Knowing your client, even when they are not entirely sure about their own needs, is the key to crafting a winning proposal. This skill is particularly challenging for experts, those who have amassed significant knowledge in their respective fields. It's all too easy to get ahead, to offer solutions to problems the client isn't fully aware of yet. The challenge lies in striking a balance between demonstrating your expertise and remaining attuned to the client's current level of understanding and needs.

The methodology this book provides for developing this skill is encapsulated in four perspectives: outside thinking, outside-in thinking, inside thinking, and inside-out thinking:

1)Outside Thinking: This step requires you to fully inhabit the world of the client, to view their challenges and needs with an unbiased and empathetic lens. It involves listening more than speaking, observing more than demonstrating, and understanding more than advising.

2)Outside-In Thinking: With your insights from the outside thinking, now it's time to motivate yourself or your team to act on these insights. How can you or your organization grow with this opportunity?

3)Inside Thinking: This step involves understanding your own skills, knowledge, and capabilities in-depth. What unique value do you bring to the table? How can these skills and abilities be used most effectively in this specific situation?

4)Inside-Out Thinking: Finally, it's about demonstrating to the client how your unique skills and capabilities make you the best fit for addressing their needs. This involves conveying your understanding of their needs, showing how you're uniquely qualified to meet these needs, and motivating the client to choose you.

May the best (wo)man win!

During our lives and careers we WIN and LOOSE many times:

•Will I get the main part in the school musical?

•Will I be selected for university?

•Will I get the job out of 100 applicants?

•Will my organization win the 10-year contract of a hundred million? Winning is often associated with luck, but what if I told you that you can learn to win! Not by cheating or having the lowest price or demands? But winning by making use of your Value: Value Based Winning.

guide you step-by-step closer to winning.

Once you start to see how the value based winning process works, you will get better and more effective every time you are in the winning and convincing process.

To use this methodology effectively, start with outside-thinking. Know what is in it for you or your organisation to get yourself motivated. Winning is hard, no motivation is no win. This is done in Outside-In thinking. Then, reflect on your skills and pick the ones that are valuable in this opportunity. Finally, craft a compelling narrative that makes it clear why you are the best choice (Inside-Out). The power of this methodology lies in its emphasis on empathy, understanding, and alignment. It's not about overpowering the competition with flashy presentations or aggressive marketing. Instead, it's about demonstrating that you understand the client's needs better than anyone else and that you have the exact skills and capabilities to meet these needs.

So, the next time you find yourself aiming to win, whether it's a proposal, a project, or a contest, remember to apply these perspectives. See the world from your client's viewpoint, align their needs with your capabilities, and communicate your value effectively. This is the secret to winning with value, the secret to transforming from a participant to a champion.

People and experts are often not fully aware of their value and how it relates to the ‘world’ - to their environment. The book, ‘The secret of Value Based convincing Winning’ is a compact book of 74 pages, with a step-to-step approach. It explains simplified and codified winning, making use of the value that is inside of every person, team or organization. It gives guidance on how to first learn to think like the client and learn what value the client truly seeks. The book explains the use of the different dimensions of showing value: The WHAT, the HOW, the WHY and the BELIEF-SYSTEM. What differentiates this approach is the addition and insight of the different BELIEF-SYSTEMS. BELIEF-SYSTEMS are a very relevant part of the winning process, however often kept invisible during the winning process. The comparison to the roots of the tree highlights how the belief system plays an important role in winning a project. Everyone initially focusses on the fruits of the tree (the project tender), however, the roots of the tree are often the most relevant part to address (why a tender was issued, not just the specifications).

The book contains several industry and personal examples to grasp the idea of value based winning, whereby the book focusses on the discover-phase: Match and see the different (potential) values. The value-based-winning-matrix can be used as a fill-in exercise to

About the author

Patrick Alexander, the author of the book ‘The secret of Value Based convincing Winning’ is an expert in winning and shaping the winning process. During his career he won and lost multiple times. As an inventor, he participated in a national contest with 2000 others and tackled several stages before winning this contest. During the last 10 years as a proposal architect, he worked with dozens of teams in making complex and winning proposals and tenders, contributing millions of Euros per year to his company’s revenue. Patrick’s mission is: Let people, teams and organizations with the highest value win. Let those win, who most deserve it!

More information on http://www.valuebasedwinning.com. The book can be ordered via the website and https://www.amazon. co.uk

Photo by Daria Nepriakhina on Unsplash

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Digital Projection projects immersive Mucha

affordable price point. Powered by a single DLP chip, the E-Vision Laser 11000 4K-UHD delivers 10,500 lumens at either 4K-UHD (3840 × 2160) or WQXGA+ (2716 × 1528) resolution, offering installers and end users the performance and flexibility they need for their project “This exhibition is very sensory based, with beautiful images and sound, but there’s also a very profound narrative approach,” continues Amit. The narrative approach mentioned by Amit is, however, best exemplified by the projection content, which centres on a three-part film focusing on the life and work of Mucha, from his invention of Art Nouveau in Paris (act one) to his work on the Bosnia–Herzegovina pavilion at the International Exhibition of 1900 and his creation of his magnum opus, ‘The Slav Epic’ (respectively acts two and three). The film, along with high-resolution (50,000px× 70,000px at 300 DPI) images of Mucha’s work, is projected onto a triptych of projection surfaces. With the three screens designed to complement each other while the content plays simultaneously: “This required a lot of background work in terms of design, integration and synchronisation” commented Nicolas Lim of Mardi8, which produced the AV content over a period of four months.

The 29 Digital Projection projectors used for Eternal Mucha – 15 in the main room, ten in the triangular secondary room, and four in the corridors –were calibrated using ETC’s own Onlyview soft-

Science and technology

ST Engineering Antycip announce large-scale planetarium

The immersive simulation and VR solutions provider and its digital planetariums partner are helping Sherwood Observatory inspire STEM interest and opportunities, through extracurricular activities and a world-class visitor attraction, with RSA Cosmos’ astronomical software, SkyExplorer. Sherwood Observatory, located between the towns of Sutton-in-Ashfield, Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Mansfield has recently received Ashfield District Council’s unanimous approval for plansto build a £6.35 million planetarium and education centre to attract thousands of visitors. The planetarium, which will be 10 metres wide, will start building in late August, with the aim it to be finished during November 2024.

In a joint effort with its partner RSA Cosmos–Konica Minolta, ST Engineering Antycip, will provide Sherwood Planetarium with all the fitting of the planetarium, including software, dome, computers, seats, shows, audio and lighting. Moreover, a select group of construction compa-

nies, have been nominated for the architecture, design, and construction of the building.

On the importance of the new planetarium, Dr Steve Wallace, planetarium project manager, Sherwood Observatory, states: “Sherwood Observatory is dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap within our community by providing outreach using astronomy as a means of inspiring people of all ages to take an interest in STEM subjects and careers.”

Amir Khosh, commercial and project manager at ST Engineering Antycip says: “Our collaboration with Steve has been a remarkable journey right from the inception of their idea of building a planetarium. We have provided them with support during the initial stages and assisting them in generating interest through our mock ups.” “We are proud to undertake the project,” states Khosh. “This is the first large planetarium that we will deliver from scratch. We designed, will build and deliver a planetarium going from inception to fruition.”

Ms. Bahar Gumus, sales manager at RSA Cosmos–Konica Minolta says: “We are thrilled and proud to have been selected for this leading planetarium project in the UK. Our team works hand-in-hand with the Sherwood Observatory team, and this right from the very start, from the project definition, to offer the best planetarium solution”. The science centre, which will include the planetarium, will be a separate building to Sherwood Observatory, and will sit on the redundant underground Victorian reservoir, built in 1886. The science centre will aim to link the engineering achievements of the past to the engineering challenges of the future, by taking visitors on a journey from the Victorian reservoir to the state-of-the-art planetarium and space science.

“With a persistent regional disparity in educational outcomes and an alarming threat to future prosperity, our are at a critical crossroads,” states Wallace.

“Through creating a locally grown high-skills workforce,

we aim to unlock the untapped potential in our area, foster ed-

ware, explained Lim. Laurent Segelle, fixed installations lead for ETC Onlyview explains that the partnership includes installation, programming, operation and maintenance of the equipment, as well as on-site support and assistance with technical and feasibility studies. “Typically during the exhibition, we come over one day per month to do some preventive and corrective servicing,” he added. “We also provide GPI with a remote maintenance service if need be.” Segelle explained why the company opted for Digital Projection: “We originally specified the Digital Projection projectors as they had enough power for a maximum number of exhibitions, with minimum maintenance. We wanted equipment capable of creating large-format images with great resolution and, of course, within the allocated budget .The fact that the projectors have a five-year original warranty was also very reassuring and helped with the choice.”

“Thanks also to the animation of these paintings, you can see in a very detailed and inspiring manner, the way in which the movement in these drawings was achieved. And this is a real advantage of digital technology,” concluded Amit’

The Eternal Mucha exhibition features nearly 30 Digital Projection laser projectors which are helping to breathe new life into the celebrated artist’s work over 80 years after his passing.

{Photography: Maxime Chermat}

In a joint effort with its partner RSA Cosmos–Konica Minolta, ST Engineering Antycip, will provide Sherwood Planetarium with all the fitting of the planetarium, including software, dome, computers, seats, shows, audio and lighting.

ucational opportunities and drive economic activity propelled by the planetarium.”

Adding interactivity to outdoor signage just got easier!

Transform outdoor displays and kiosks into touch enabled digital wayfinding and information points with announced the new IR Touch Overlay (IRTO55-XHB4) from Peerless-AV.

Peerless-AV has announced the new IR Touch Overlay (IRTO55XHB4) for standalone install on the 55” Xtreme High Bright Outdoor Display (XHB554-EUK) and use with the Smart City Kiosks (KOP55XHB-EUK and KOP5555XHB2-EUK).

The new overlay is designed to effortlessly transform and enhance outdoor signage by incorporating customer interaction elements that attract, engage and inspire audiences in high traffic outdoor areas such as shopping centres, stadium concourses, campuses, industrial parks, zoos, amusement parks, bars, restaurants and transportation hubs.

“The new IR Touch Overlay for our Xtreme displays and Smart City Kiosks upholds the high standards of ingress protection and operating temperature renowned on these products with durable, lasting performance,” said Keith Dutch, Managing Director – EMEA, Peerless-AV. “The opportunity for outdoor is growing rapidly and by adding interactivity we are helping customers to see even more potential for this technology to attract and engage with their audiences as well as inform, entertain and, ultimately, drive revenue.”

Offering 10-points of simultaneous touch with a fast ≤15ms response time, the IR Touch Overlay can also detect input from a gloved finger, stylus or other devices. Not only does mean outstanding reliability but this allows for flexibility in content selection. The overlay is powered by a 10ft USB 5V DC adaptor cable, is HID-compliant so no custom driver software is required and works with multiple operating systems.

The IRTO55-XHB4 has an IP65 rating, operates in temperatures from -10°C to 40°C and can be installed in either portrait or landscape orientation. The powder coated stainless steel frame of the overlay sits over the primary frame of the standalone Xtreme display. The product also comes with an external ambient light sensor extender accessory (ACCD-ALS) to automatically adjust the brightness of the Xtreme display according to lighting conditions. The ALS Extender overrides the built-in ambient light sensor, when it is connected, allowing flexibility for installations where the built-in ALS may have shadows being cast on it by surrounding structures or vegetation.

The new Xtreme IR Touch Overlay (ISTO55-XHB4) is now in stock and available from Peerless-AV’s authorised reseller and distribution network. For more information on the full range of Peerless-AV mounts and solutions visit www.peerless-av.com.

Peerless-AV’s new Xtreme IR Touch Overlay offers 10-points of simultaneous touch with a fast ≤15ms response time.

Hospitality - on the road to recovery

The hospitality industry in the United Kingdom has always been dynamic and ever-changing, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global trends. While the worst of the corona virus pandemic is hopefully over, 2023 continues to pose the industry faces both challenges and opportunities that will shape its trajectory in the coming years. This article explores some of the key trends that are expected to confront the UK hospitality sector in 2023, ranging from technological innovations to sustainable workplace practices and the evolving consumer demands.

Technology is revolutionising the way customers experience hospitality services today. In 2023, we can expect to see a greater integration of technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the hospitality sector along with the AV resources needed for display, interactivity and communication. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will streamline guest interactions and provide personalised recommendations, enhancing the customer experience and satisfaction. AR and VR applications will enable immersive experiences for tourists, allowing them to explore destinations virtually and assess attractions before booking. Additionally, IoT will play a significant role in enhancing hotel operations. Smart rooms equipped with IoT sensors will enable seamless automation of tasks like temperature control, lighting, and entertainment systems, leading to increased energy efficiency and cost savings

Data-driven strategies and sustainability

In the competitive hospitality landscape, personalisation will remain a key differentiator in 2023. Hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies will leverage customer data to offer tailored experiences and targeted marketing campaigns. Data-driven strategies will help businesses better understand their customers, anticipate their needs, and create memorable experiences that foster loyalty and repeat business. By analysing customer behaviour and preferences, hotels can customise room amenities, restaurant menus, and travel packages to cater to individual tastes. However, data privacy and security concerns will be critical as businesses seek to strike a balance between personalization and respecting customer privacy. Sustainability will continue to be a significant trend in the UK hospitality industry in 2023. As environmental consciousness grows among consumers, travellers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible accommodations and services. Hospitality businesses will be under pressure to adopt sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and implement environmentally friendly initiatives.

Hotels and restaurants will focus on eco-conscious design, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sourcing locally produced ingredients. By promoting their green initiatives, businesses can attract environmentally conscious guests and improve their brand image. Sustainable travel is no longer a niche. More travellers are sensitive to the ecological impact of their trips. The YouGov Travel and Tourism Practice Study found that 44% of US consumers try to make purchases (including travel) from socially and environmentally conscious companies. This trend is supported by Booking.com and Expedia.com studies. Furthermore, a new type of ecological travel is also on the rise - regenerative travel, aiming at offering trips that have net-positive impacts, bringing sustainability to another level.

Sustainability is the dominant trend in hospitality this year It will also be the main drive of major investment in the sector. Global hotel chains are introducing different programs and initiatives. Furthermore, they also are collecting data on their environmental impact to calculate their carbon footprint. When 4/5 of travellers choose sustainability as an important factor, it is not surprising that this impacts their purchasing choices. As a result, it has become vital for hotels to switch to environmentally-friendly processes and services – and ensure that these initiatives are visible to their customers.

Experience-driven tourism

Traditional sightseeing and tourist attractions will no longer suffice for modern travellers. In 2023, experience-driven tourism will take center stage, with tourists seeking unique and immersive experiences during their travels. This trend will influence the types of accommodations, tours, and activities offered by the UK hospitality industry. Glamping, immersive cultural experiences, adventure travel, and wellness retreats will gain in popularity as tourists seek authentic and memorable experiences. Travel agencies and tour operators will cater to these demands by curating packages that focus on local culture, nature, and personalized adventures.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for flexible spaces in the hospitality industry. In 2023, this trend has a continued, with hotels and restaurants adapting their layouts to cater to diverse purposes. Hybrid spaces that serve both business and leisure needs will become more prevalent. Hotels will incorporate co-working spaces, meeting rooms with advanced AV capabilities, and modular designs that can transform public areas to accommodate a variety ofs events. Similarly, restaurants will offer private dining spaces suitable for business meetings and gatherings.

Contactless technologies

The pandemic's impact will continue to be felt in 2023, with the ongoing support for contactless technologies and stringent health protocols in the hospitality industry. Contactless check-in and checkout, mobile payments, digital menus and virtual concierge services will remain in place to ensure guest safety and convenience. Hotels and restaurants will prioritise cleanliness and hygiene protocols to build trust among customers. Frequent sanitisation of public areas, guest rooms, and dining spaces will be standard practice, assuring guests of a safe and hygienic environment.

The UK's hospitality industry will continue to see culinary innovation in 2023, with a focus on diverse dietary preferences. Vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based options will become mainstream, catering to the growing number of individuals adopting these diets. Chefs and restaurateurs will experiment with local and global flavors, fusion cuisine and unique dining concepts to entice adventurous foodies. Moreover, there will be a rise in the use of alternative proteins, such as plant-based meat substitutes and lab-grown meats, to meet changing dietary demands.

Differentiated marketing

In the digital age, social media will remain a powerful tool for promoting hospitality businesses. Influencer marketing will continue to play a crucial role in reaching target audiences and building brand awareness. Hotels, restaurants and travel agencies will collaborate with influencers to showcase their offerings and provide authentic reviews and experiences. Businesses will invest in content creation to maintain an active and engaging social media presence, attracting potential customers and building brand loyalty.

Following the dramatic and negative impact of the pandemic, the willingness to pay for leisure products and services is expected to increase. A survey conducted by Booking.com stated that “close to half (49%) admit that they plan to be more indulgent in their spending habits while enjoying leisure to make up for the lack of travel during the last couple of years, while 43% plan to spend lavishly to ensure they maximize their trips, and every experience is worth it”.

In a study conducted by Expedia.com, a sizable minority (43%) said “their travel budget will be larger this year than last.”

One of the often-cited ways of maximising the return on leisure is to

Hotels are replacing their legacy systems with new solutions to improve operational efficiency, drive automation, allowing employees to focus on activities what add value instead of routine and time-consuming tasks.

blur the line between work and leisure travel. The number of digital nomads will increase, especially as some companies implement “working from anywhere in the world" policies. However, for some individuals, full-on digital nomadism is too extreme, and a more nuanced variation is emerging: “hush” trips. This solution is more temporary compared to the usual length of a digital nomad’s stay and typically lasts less than a month. However, travellers can still spend more time discovering a destination while working when required. The hospitality industry is also expected to witness more ‘bleisure’ trips, a mix of business and leisure travel where a typical employee travels for business reasons from Monday to Thursday, and then extends their trip for a weekend break, often with their spouse or family in tow.

Towards the digital normal

Hotels are replacing their legacy systems with new solutions to improve operational efficiency, drive automation, allowing employees to focus on activities what add value instead of routine and time-consuming tasks. Undoubtedly, this allows companies to move toward a paperless future and contribute to sustainability, the driving force behind global consumption. Furthermore, business leaders enthuse about the impact of digital transformation, expecting international transaction and consumer data to improve their operations. NFTs (non-fungible tokens – digital assets with a unique value) are also making their way into the hotel sector. Marriott International has been one of the first hotels to participate. Moreover, some hotels already offer the possibility to book a room using NFTs, the so called 'NFT room packages', and this service is expected to become more popular in the future.

Naturally, AI (artificial intelligence) technologies are involved in hospitality and are making a huge leap forward. We are already seeing significant breakthroughs, and there are more to come. In the global hospitality sector, these innovations can solve a range of problems, including staff shortages and the introduction of automation and self-service in customer service, which will be speedy, cost-efficient and accurate. Using robots in customer service is not ‘futuristic’ as its already here. Smart hotels with a combination of artificial intelligence, AR, VR and connectivity will personalise customer service and encourage them to become more loyal and returning guests. Leveraging digital twins and the power of the metaverse may be a more impactful move than one might assume.

Photo by Proxyclick Visitor Management Sy

Future prospects

The UK hospitality industry is poised to undergo significant changes driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer demands, and sustainability concerns. Businesses that embrace innovation, personalisation, and sustainable practices will thrive in this dynamic landscape. The shift towards immersive experiences, contactless technologies and flexible spaces will shape the future of

Peerless-AV at Lakewood Tavern Sports Bar

Lakewood Tavern, an American food and sports bar, has completed an all over TV installation at its new Lake Elmo, Minnesota location.

The Tavern opened in March 2023 and is attracting customers as a place to gather and watch live sports of all kinds. Working with Innovative Sales Solutions (iSell Solutions), a global sales agency and consulting brand, and Key Digital Systems, a leading designer

surface and the displays can be tilted at the same angle with ease. This is exactly what the project called for, enabling customers to see sporting action from anywhere in the venue.

“It was a complex project simply because of the number of TVs to be installed,” commented John Peterson, VP Technology Sales at Innovative Sales Solutions. “To get as close to back-to-back as possible at

The UK hospitality industry is poised to undergo significant changes driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer demands, and sustainability concerns. The UK hospitality industry is poised to undergo significant changes driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer demands, and sustainability concerns.

the industry and redefine the way tourists and guests interact with hospitality services in the years to come. By staying ahead of these trends, the UK hospitality sector can continue to meet the expectations of the modern traveller and drive growth and success in the years beyond 2023.

Forbes Magazine listed the 23 best leisure destinations this year. When it comes to cultural city gateway, as cities can gain or lose attraction overtime, Expedia.com named the top five cultural cities to visit for next year: Edinburgh, Lisbon, Tokyo, Dublin and New York. What travellers do when they get there is also subject to change: travellers are expected to move sway from the traditional pursuits of boozing and partying. They now are willing to drink more zero-proof cocktails: no alcohol but still with the look and taste of a regular cocktail. In addition, they also wish to have the opportunity to eat “zero-kilometre food“ “Guests are increasingly looking to have a connection to the land where produce is sourced, and the demand to visit farms or have a total experience whereby food is grown locally.

and manufacturer of control solutions for residential and commercial businesses, Peerless-AV was able to provide a custom support solution for this truly unique installation.

The goal of this installation was to maximize the viewing experience for all customers by installing multiple TVs around the venue. The solution not only needed to be easy to install with a high-level of adjustability, but it had to provide easy access for servicing and maintenance. The large number of TVs presented a few challenges along the way and the restaurant had to address several building inspection considerations.

LG 65”, 75”, and 86” displays were chosen for the project and used throughout the dining areas and corner cubby holes, supported by a combination of 15 Peerless-AV SmartMount Universal Tilt Wall Mounts (ST650 and ST680) and Articulating Wall Mounts (SA771PU). Key to this installation was the large mounting plate and easy-glide display adaptors included with the tilt wall mount, which simplified the installation of the large flat panel displays. Another important feature was the mount’s horizontal display adjustment, which provided enough left to right movement to achieve the ideal viewing position – a must to avoid neck strain from long periods of watching live sports!

For the displays located above the central bar, Peerless-AV’s SmartMount Digital Menu Board Mounts (DS-MBZ647L) with Ceiling Menu Board Connectors (ACC-MBCR1) and Menu Board Wall Plate Accessory (ACC-MB0800) were used to create the perfect back-toback digital menu board. This section consists of 10" x 65" displays (in two 4x1 configurations with two at each end). The install team chose this combination of mounts and accessories because they allow for a wider, seamless, and more impactful digital menu board

the bar, we designed a customized solution that reduced the number of poles needed from the ceiling to make the digital menu board stable and give it a tighter looking finish. We also had to work with strict building inspection criteria. For example, the mount adaptor plate had to be raised all the way up to the building girder and be attached to Unistrut metal framing system for load bearing purposes.”

Innovative Sales Solutions and Peerless-AV have partnered for many years on multiple projects. “Every area of this project required high attention to detail, and we’re thrilled with how it looks. We couldn’t have completed such a flawless finish without the Peerless-AV mounting solutions,” added Peterson. Live sports channels stream to all the TVs thanks to Key Digital Systems who provided an AV over IP solution via Cat6 cabling. Eight streaming sources (including ComCast, Amazon, Apple, and MLB Channels on Hulu) are controlled using the KD-App on an iPad. The end result is a highly impressive sports bar that customers will enjoy for years to come. Every TV has been installed with a stunning finish, and the feedback from the Lakewood Tavern owners has been overwhelmingly positive. “As soon as you walk into the space, you get the feeling that you are in a unique sports bar,” says Lakewood Tavern owners Tom, Lou, and Chris. “Now that we’ve been open a few months, the response has been fantastic, and there is a definite sports vibe. Using the iPad, we’re in full control. Customers can let us know what sports they want to watch. And we can select an individual TV or all TVs to display by hitting a button, whether it’s local, on cable, or a streaming platform. We are offering the ultimate in sports bar entertainment!”

Photo by Ameer Basheer on Unsplash

Discover 2 Professional Displays - Collaborate for a brighter future

Legamaster presents new, more sustainable professional display series

Legamaster, the professional division for visual presentation solutions from the edding Group, is launching a new generation of professional displays on the market with the DISCOVER 2 series, in which, in addition to innovative functions, the sustainability aspect is given high priority throughout the entire production and life cycle. This is in line with the efforts of parent company edding to become a climate-neutral company.

Ahrensburg / Lochem, July 2023

Discover new possibilities for information presentation:

The new DISCOVER 2 Professional Displays

The Discover 2 Professional Display opens up new horizons: as a consistent further development of the first generation, the range of the Discover 2 series offers proven quality paired with new functions. Especially for the high demand and fast growing market of public information display screens, the devices offer some exciting possibilities. Plus the range has grown with the popular addition of a smaller 43” screen and for those who want bigger – a 98”.

Landscape and portrait support & automatic image rotation

Also new and - in terms of use as a digital signage display - very useful, is the ability to use the Discover 2 displays in both landscape and portrait formats. Not only is this feature fully integrated, but the orientation of the display is also automatically detected and the image rotated accordingly, so no service menu intervention or special service configurations are required. Just like using your smartphone or tablet. This option is activated by default in the settings menu, but can also be deactivated if required.

Intuitive operation - new user interface

The new Discover 2 displays offer a range of user-friendly functions in direct access via the start screen. With the Media Player you can access all media on the screen, add new media via QR code and even create a playlist as local digital signage content. The Input menu allows you to select different input sources, while Settings takes you directly to screen configuration customization. The All Apps menu allows you to access already installed apps and add new ones like Digital Signage Apps. The preset apps E-Share and LoopSign are already installed on the screen, but require separate licenses for activation - a trial version is available. You'll also find status indicators for active WiFi, Ethernet and USB connections at the bottom right, which are only

visible when activated.

With the new Discover 2 series, Legamaster is now launching a successor to its popular original Discover series, which, in addition to the usual simplicity and user-friendliness, focuses above all on sustainability.

Users simply connect the DISCOVER professional displays to an external source, using a Legamaster AirServer Connect for full casting and mirroring options or using the displays together with our video conferencing camera and OPS computer which will offer users a full, professional presentation solution.

New Legamaster Experience Vehicle Tour

UK customers will also have the special opportunity to see the new Discover 2 in the Legamaster experience vehicle in September but we also have a showroom in London and a new showroom being built in St.Albans. This mobile showroom has the most popular sizes of Legamaster display: the 65” Supreme interactive display, the new Evolve 75” interactive display and the 86” Discover 2 professional display. It also includes the new Loop room booking display – perfect for hybrid working. The tour will also include Visualization staff on hand to answer questions. Simply email info-uk@legamaster.com or call 07498419059 for more information.

Doing good with EVOLVE and 1% for the Planet

DISCOVER the possibilities of information presentation with the Legamaster Discover 2 Professional Display.

Legamaster DISCOVER range of professional displays offers a cost-efficient solution to upgrade presentations in both corporate and educational settings. Available from 43 to 98 inch, the DISCOVER displays are made especially for medium to big meeting-spaces or classrooms.

Legamaster are pleased to back up all their high quality professional display range with one of the best UK warranties – 5 years with an additional 3 years for education institutions once subscribed. Onboard, users can find a web-browser, media player and office document player that offer basic functionality without any connected devices needed. Furthermore a basic and local narrow casting app is pre-installed on the device providing a basic public information display functionality but it also a has a central management content display integration App using an external service solution providing a scalable control of the displayed content. The Discover 2 also has an integrated tiling tool which will provide support for up to a 3x3 videowall solution without the need of purchasing any additional hardware. This provides a cost effective alternative to an LED wall – effective as the Discover 2 has an ultra narrow bezel and no branding.

A very special feature of the Discover 2 displays is the 1% for the Planet certification. As part of this certification, Legamaster donates 1% of its Discover 2 sales to the 1% for the Planet Foundation to support sustainability and environmental projects worldwide. "As the successor to the first Discover series, the Discover 2 will be used for many vertical markets but also schools and educational institutions," says Maarten Meenks, who is responsible for the product portfolio at Legamaster. "Institutions where the aim is to prepare a future for our children. A future for which we all have a responsibility. That's why it was important for us to give back a part for a future worth living with the DISCOVER 2."

The new Discover 2 professional displays are now available in six sizes – 43”, 55", 65”, 75”, 86" and 98” inch screen diagonal. If you want something bigger remember Legamaster also has the 105” 5K Panorama touchscreen. The first units are now available from our specialist distributor Visualization .

Call Vizuk on : +44 (0)1628 673702 or Mail Us : hello@vizuk.com

Vivitek DU775Z-UST laser projector: scaling the heights? Review

Every now and again the opportunity to review something coincides with an ideal setting to see it in action. Last month’s Eurovision Song Contest was just such an opportunity. AV News was asked to supply a display for a social event at a ski centre when centre staff and customers wanted to enjoy the Song Contest in the best possible way, short of actually making the trip to Liverpool. There is no doubt that 4Kprojection to a large audience always has the potential to make something special, so how did we get on?

Medway Ski Centre is one of the largest in the UK, with the longest ski slope, a toboggan run and a very active ski training programme for juniors and older ski racers. Like many sports organisations, the Centre has a very social a young outlook and the nature of the sport attracts many participants from well-off backgrounds who are not short of a few bob and nearly all will have decent home entertainment systems. Putting on social event in the Centre therefore demanded something that went beyond a big telly and a stereo audio system.

The DU775Z-UST Ultra Short Throw laser projector

A month before the Eurovision Song Contest AV News was offered the chance to review Vivitek’s DU775Z-UST, described as an advanced Ultra Short Throw Laser Projector, for the needs to meet the needs of museums, galleries, educators, training spaces, immersive applications, hospitality and signage applications. OK, no specific mention of ski centres, but we felt that our application would sneak in under the training, education and hospitality categories.

What really appealed to us for our application was the compact footprint, large image size and 4K-UHD compatibility of the DU775Z-UST. The installation site was in the Centre bar / restaurant and so space was at a premium but a large, high quality, projected image was still required if we were to offer a value-added experience for the audience.

Technical features

So. what is it about the DU775Z-UST that enabled the Ski Centre to achieve its goal of impressing members and staff? The DU775ZUST is designed with a new Tele-centric lens system to achieve a very low defocus range and flare value at large image sizes, while its Concave Reflect Mirror reduces any image distortion. Offering native WUXGA resolution and a high brightness of 5000 ANSI lumens with 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, the V= DU775Z-UST-UST gave us almost complete flexibility on positioning with superb control over image size. Contributing to this flexibility was the choice of installation site from ceiling down to floor, if necessary. The ultra short throw capabilities of

the unit minimised the impact of shadow from the audience, even though the space as less than ideal. Furthermore, the running noise from the DU775Z-UST was minimal, making this projector ideal for our application but also other use cases where noise is an issue, like education.

Installation

We found the DU775Z-UST-UST very simple to set up and adjust. Image quality was the key issue for us, and we found that this was true to the colour of the content displayed with no distortion to flesh tones (of which there was quite a lot on display).

Connectivity options on the DU775Z-UST include HDMI, VGA, USB, but includes something of a token audio option. On the oethe hand, Built-in audio options might do for notifications but are incapable of filling a room. This isn’t all that surprising, given the intended applications of this model, and didn’t affect us because the venue had a PA system installed for other events. One thing that was more of an issue for us was the inclusion of a Micro HDMI port for Mac users.

Conclusion

Overall, the. DU775Z-UST-ST WUXGA seemed entirely suited to the needs of galleries, museums, the education sector and commercial applications – and ski centres! The 5000 ANSI Lumens of high brightness, the 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio and up to 30,000 hours of laser light source life was more than adequate for delivering a value-added viewing experience toa discerning and knowledgeable audience.

The DU775Z-UST-ST brought the benefit of large projection screen sizes to a less than perfect venue, even with its limited installation space. With a 0.5 short-throw lens, the projector only needs a distance of two metres from the wall to achieve an impressive image size of 150 inches. At a distance of 3.23 metres, it can still deliver a razor-sharp projection with a diagonal image of 150% with 100%focus

Build

The DU775Z-UST-ST is far from big and bulky, featuring a lightweight design of 8.9 kg and 360-degree positioning options It eliminates previous limitations that hindered creative installation and immersive visual experiences. Image quality is enhanced with DLP DarkChip3 and BrilliantColor technologies to ensure a brilliant

bright and colour-uniform picture with a brightness of up to 5000 ANSI lumens thanks to the advanced laser phosphor light source.To facilitate installations where the image signal needs to be transmitted over long distance by cable, the HDBaseT interface and a standard CAT5e / 6-LAN interface have been integrated in the DU775Z-USTST.

With this projector being powered by a laser light source, it is perfectly suited for 24/7 operation where the need arises. The projector’s fan error auto protection will bring users peace of mind that the image will never fail – handy when working with a fee-paying audience. Even in the rare event of a fan failure during operation, the projector will still function stably without the need for immediate shut down.

Worth the price?

The DU775Z-UST-ST is available now from, what seems to us, a reasonable £2,670 excluding VAT. The Vivitek DU775Z-UST is about more than just a quality image. It can fully connected with Poower USB-A for signage players and wireless collaboration devices. It supports network control/Vivitek PJ-Control for easy communications and remote control over an IT network and has optional interactivity, although we did not test any of these features.

Peoplewatch

TD SYNNEX has announced the promotion of Andy Evans to the position of Vice President, Maverick, Europe. In his new role, Evans will lead the overall growth strategy for Maverick in Europe, with a focus on deepening the distributor’s extensive specialist capabilities, reinforcing vendor relationships and empowering the Maverick team to deliver best-in-class smart signage and collaboration offerings to partners across Europe.

With more than 30 years’ experience within the AV/IT industry, Evans previously served in commercial director roles at integration businesses including market leaders Electrosonic and Kinly, and also held senior positions at Viju and Cisco. Evans said: “Since joining the company earlier this year, I have learnt firsthand about the immense power, knowledge and experience of our team and the continued potential for growth in our business. In my new role, I am looking forward to enabling the whole Maverick team to realize the many opportunities in front of us in the smart signage and collaboration space.” Hugo Da Graça, senior vice president, Specialized Solutions, Europe, at TD SYNNEX, said: “Andy has made a huge impact on our business in the past few months thanks to his knowledge of collaboration technology, the channel and our industry verticals. He is a natural fit to lead the Maverick team to its next level of high performance and business success.”

well-executed customer success management can offer the most effective way to drive customer loyalty and retention.”

“Signagelive has built its reputation on forging productive reseller relationships that span over the course of many years. I see my new role, and the department I will set up, as a way to consolidate this success. To add further value to these reseller partnerships, we’ll be helping to generate more business by ensuring that we deliver dedicated and on-going support for end users at every stage of their digital signage journey.”

Harden is well-placed to take on the challenges of her new role.

Over the course of her twenty-two-year career, she has emerged as an industry leader in customer advocacy, growing, and heading up global customer success in corporate, scale-up and start-up companies all over the world. A multi-lingual, globe-trotting Customer Success Manager (CSM), she has gained her experience across multiple sectors, including the IT, pharmaceutical life science and clinical research industries. Serving as a bridge between Signagelive and end users, Harden and her team will identify the individual business needs of end users and keep them informed of relevant features and opportunities that will help realise their goals. Harden will also liaise closely with Signagelive sales and support departments on behalf of end users to optimise the customer experience.

Of the new appointment, Signagelive Chief Commercial Officer, Frank Larsen, said: “We’re excited to have Sylvie on board. A highly accomplished professional, she has the experience and strength of character we need to take our expansion plans to the next level. With Sylvie at the helm of our customer strategy, we can deliver an ever-higher standard of personalised support for end users, which, in turn, will help us boost reseller revenue opportunities.”

Dr. Marcos Simon, Audioscenic CTO and Co-Founder. “The diversity of background and thought gives us a rich tapestry of perspectives, ideas, and insights, which will allow us to continue to innovate and develop our approach to consumer spatial audio technology. As a united team our goal is the same, to bring an accessible and affordable spatial audio experience to customers around the world and elevate the experience of some of our most commonly used audio and viewing devices.”

As Audioscenic continues to evolve and expand its market presence, the company recognises the importance of strong business development efforts. To capitalise on commercial opportunities and foster strategic partnerships, Audioscenic has plans to onboard a dedicated business development professional. This individual will focus on driving commercial growth, identifying new markets, and establishing mutually beneficial relationships with key industry stakeholders.

Audioscenic, developers of the innovative 3D audio beamforming technology Amphi, have announced a substantial team expansion including 15 new staff members across their software engineering, DSP, computer vision and audio R&D teams.

TD SYNNEX has announced the promotion of Andy Evans to the position of Vice President, Maverick, Europe.

Signagelive has kick-started an ambitious customer-focused expansion strategy with the appointment of its first Head of Customer Success Management, Sylvie Harden. An integral part of the company’s global plans, the move will ultimately see Harden head up a

Audioscenic, developers of the innovative 3D audio beamforming technology Amphi, have announced a substantial team expansion including 15 new staff members across their software engineering, DSP, computer vision and audio R&D teams, along with a new CFO. The expansion comes as a result of rapid and successful growth. In the last six months Audioscenic has completed a successful Series A funding round as well as widespread industry accolades and awards for the first consumer implementation of its Amphi technology in the Razer Leviathan V2 Pro sound bar at the 2023 CES Show, Las Vegas. Audioscenic’s expanded teams see the brand poised to expand its technology to a global customer base.

“We’re very proud to grow the size, and skill, of our team to meet the rapidly expanding scope of Amphi within the consumer audio realm,” comments David Monteith, Audioscenic CEO. “The strategic focus of this expansion is on increasing our capabilities in key areas, so that we can continue to explore and implement our technology across the broadest possible range of consumer devices.”

The expansion of Audioscenic's team signifies the company's commitment to advancing spatial audio technology and strengthening its market position. With an increased talent pool, the company is wellequipped to improve existing products, develop innovative solutions, and explore new market opportunities, solidifying its position as a leading provider of immersive audio experiences. Additionally, the team's diverse composition, spanning over four continents and representing 14 nationalities, fosters a global perspective and enriches the company's ability to serve a diverse customer base worldwide.

Signagelive has kick-started an ambitious customer-focused expansion strategy with the appointment of its first Head of Customer Success Management, Sylvie Harden.

Customer Success Management Team, dedicated to continuously increasing customer engagement and satisfaction.

“It is”, Harden explains, “a necessary step to stay ahead of the competition. A company’s long-term growth depends on the success of its customers. If you don’t develop a strategy to maximise the end user experience, any money you spend on customer acquisition will be wasted. We believe that in today’s over-crowded CMS market,

The new team members include Balu Raj, Dimitris Zantalis, Robert Alcock and Kartik Prakash in Audioscenic’s Software Engineering Department, who will contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the Amphi software solutions. George Howell and Georgii Zagoruiko have joined the DSP Department and will be working to expand the firm’s capabilities for implementing Amphi within embedded devices at lower cost. Jose Cappelletto will be part of the Computer Vision Engineering Team, which focuses on Amphi’s head-tracking technology. Yury Ushakov, Jago Reed-Jones, Jacob Hollebon and Neil Crawshaw in the Audio R&D Team will be focused on improving software performance and new product development which includes integration in laptops, car stereo systems, and other commonly available consumer listening devices. Finally, the new Chief Financial Officer will optimise the company's financial operations and make informed decisions regarding financial planning and budgeting.

“We’ve assembled an incredible global team, hailing from countries around the world, to take us into the next phase of our journey,” said

ZeeVee, a leading global provider of AV distribution products, continues to expand its European sales team with the addition of Jason Rance as account manager, UK and Ireland. In his role, Rance will be responsible for expanding ZeeVee's presence in the regional mar-

ZeeVee continues to expand its European sales team with the addition of Jason Rance as account manager

Peoplewatch

ket with a focus on key distribution partners including Midwich and Polar. He will also oversee communications with integrators and resellers, identify potential projects and serve as part of the company's local customer satisfaction team.

Before joining ZeeVee, Rance enjoyed a 10-year career in professional cricket, with his most recent position being the head of player pathway for Buckinghamshire County Cricket Board. Prior to that, he served in several positions, including head coach, cricket development officer and performance coach, as well as a minor counties cricketer. Earlier in his career, he played for Mooroopna Cricket Club in Australia and was the junior head coach for his childhood club Chesham Cricket Club, England.

“Jason’s extensive experience in organisational management, coupled with his background in competitive sports, makes him a valuable addition to our team at ZeeVee,” said Rob Muddiman, VP, EMEAI, ZeeVee. “With his proven track record of cultivating strong professional relationships, we are confident that he will play a strong role in expanding our presence in the UK market. While my path to joining the AV industry is unconventional, I am motivated by the opportunity to work with ZeeVee's talented professionals and contribute to the company's vision of revolutionizing the AV industry,” said Rance. “There are a few commonalities between my life in sport and now at ZeeVee, most importantly, communication and being driven to help my team be successful.”

Rance graduated from the University of Winchester with a Bachelor of Arts in sport coaching and development. He lives in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, England, with his fiancée, Holly, and two daughters. In his free time, he spends time with his family and friends who keep him happily occupied, and follows a wide range of sports, such as football, golf and, of course, cricket.

Lightware Visual Engineering has announced the promotion of Siegfried Hermann to the role of President of Lightware EMEA. Under his leadership, Lightware will consolidate its position in the EMEA region with a greater focus on further growth after a hugely successful 2022 and a remarkable start in 2023. In August 2022, Lightware appointed

EMEA region at its best with short delivery times and with highest level support. We have short and direct ways to our customers and focus also more and more on the sustainability of our products and our complete supply chain.”

Hermann added, “I look forward to the challenge of further building upon the impressive success that Lightware has already created in the region. I will further develop and strengthen our sales and organisational operations. We will continue our exponential growth in the region while delivering an uncompromising level of service and support to an ever-increasing number of customers and partners.”

As Clear-Com continues to grow beyond its core markets of live events and broadcast, the company has announced the appointment of Anthony Wilkins to a new role as Business Development Manager for Industrial and Critical Communications in the EMEA region. Anthony will work with Clear-Com’s current partners and develop new channels for the company to expand in sectors where communication is critical to success and safety, such as marine/ offshore, medical, public safety, transportation, and more.

Anthony brings over 40 years of experience in professional audio systems, covering the gamut of field service engineering and test and measurement to sales, technical marketing, product management, and business development. He has expertise in distribution

As Clear-Com continues to grow its business in the federal aviation and space agency and national defence markets, the company has announced the appointment of Preston New to a new role as Business Development Director for Military, Aerospace, and Government. Preston will oversee the strategic growth of Clear-Com’s account sales and new partnerships within these important sectors, encompassing endeavours like space and aerospace missions, unmanned

Lightware Visual Engineering has announced the promotion of Siegfried Hermann to the role of President of Lightware EMEA.

Siegfried Hermann as Vice President of Business Development for the EMEA region. He developed and expanded Lightware’s presence in the region, developing new partnerships with global corporations. In his new position as President of Lightware EMEA, Hermann will be responsible for sales, operations and organisation development in the complete EMEA region, servicing customers across numerous vertical markets. He will work closely with the Regional Directors and Office Leaders around EMEA while simultaneously building and executing a plan for further growth of the Lightware brand in the complete territory.

Hermann has over 25 years of success in business development, sales, marketing, operations, and being CEO in the DACH region for a leading manufacturer in the professional AV industry. In his new role, Hermann will be responsible for ensuring the continued growth of Lightware in the entire EMEA region. As President of Lightware EMEA, Hermann will work directly with Lightware’s headquarters and management team. “It’s a very exciting and pivotal time for Lightware in the EMEA region,” said Hermann “As we develop and produce our products within the European Union, the EMEA region is one of our main markets to focus on. Our development department and our production are located in Budapest, in the centre of Europe. For that reason, we can support our customers in the

As Clear-Com continues to grow beyond its core markets of live events and broadcast, the company has announced the appointment of Anthony Wilkins to a new role as Business Development Manager for Industrial and Critical Communications in the EMEA region.

and partner management for companies including Sony, DTS, Linear Acoustic and Junger Audio, and directly prior to joining Clear-Com, he was responsible for managing EMEA distribution for Focusrite, where he oversaw the amalgamation of the ADAM Audio, Sequential, and Oberheim brands into Focusrite Group EMEA.

“Anthony’s wealth of experience in both the technical engineering and the sales and business development areas of the communications industry made him the perfect candidate for this key growth role based here in the EMEA region,” says Chris Willis, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales. “He will be invaluable to Clear-Com as we cultivate business in the Industrial and Critical Communications space in EMEA and we are excited to see those markets in this region grow with his leadership.”

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to join such a renowned and well-respected company,” Anthony says. “To me, the name ClearCom is practically synonymous with the word ‘intercom’. One of the main attractions was the great variety of applications that I will be working to develop outside of Clear-Com’s core focus on the live and broadcast markets. With markets as diverse as marine and offshore, motorsports operations, medical, transportation and theme parks, I’m really looking forward to addressing the unique challenges that each of them brings.”

A native of Northwest England, Anthony has also lived and worked in Switzerland, Germany and the Republic of Ireland. He now resides back in England a few minutes away from where he grew up. In his spare time, Anthony enjoys following motorcycle racing, “attempting to play guitar,” and has almost finished restoring a classic Suzuki 750 motorcycle.

Clear-Com continues to grow its business in the federal aviation and space agency and national defense markets, the company is pleased to announce the appointment of Preston New to a new role as Business Development Director for Military, Aerospace, and Government.

systems, test and evaluation, training and simulation, and research and development, for all of which communication is mission-critical. Preston is a 21-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force (USAF) in the communications and maintenance specialties, serving in the U.S., Europe, and the Pacific. His post-military career involves systems engineering and sales, including a role as USAF lead with the Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JTRS) offic and managing the Systems Engineer Department of Cornet Technologies. Preston joins Clear-Com after an eight-year tenure at L3Harris, where he was Air Force Major Account Manager for the Public Safety and Professional Communications (PSPC) Division and later, Major Account Manager of Federal Agencies and the USAF in the Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Division. “I was looking for a different challenge after my years as Major Account Manager,” Preston says. “Clear-Com was a good fit with my experience in matrix and intercom, and I am eager to expand its reach and meet the needs of our current and prospective partners in the MAG community.”

Preston’s unique combination of military experience and technical sales will offer invaluable benefits to Clear-Com, explains Chris Willis, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales: “As a USAF-retired veteran, Preston’s intrinsic understanding of military comms is already deep. His added systems engineering and sales experience within government-level communications made him the best choice for this important growth role.” Preston lives in Kingsport, Tennessee with his family and enjoys playing golf in his spare time.

PPDS has announced the appointment of experienced LED specialist, Marco Priebe, as the company’s new Key Account Manager and Business Development Manager LED for the DACH market. With more than 23 years of top-level LED sales experience, Marco is one of the industry’s most accomplished talents, having held a series of senior management positions, delivering success to some of the world’s most established and recognised brands during an illustrious career. This includes 16 years as Key Account Manager at Philips Lighting (2000-2016) and Philips CSS (1998-2000).

Based in Hamburg, and reporting to Rainer Bloch, Business Director DACH, Marco’s vast knowledge and experience will play a crucial role in further developing and advancing PPDS’ LED market strategy and growth ambitions in DACH, which remains one of the company’s faster growing adoptive markets. Equipped with an evolving range of high impact, high bright and highly flexible Philips dvLED solutions – including dedicated software – PPDS has become the ‘go-to’ provider for a growing number of customers in a widening range of markets, completing national and international projects in retail, corporate, education, public venues, transportation, and hospitality, among others.

With a primary focus on the German, Austrian and Swiss markets, Marco’s key responsibilities in the role include achieving sales and

Peoplewatch

margin targets, developing, implementing, and executing new sales and marketing strategies, driving brand and product awareness in the AV channel and to prospective customers, and educating the market on PPDS’ sustainability strategy. He will also seek to develop and identify new solutions and sales opportunities across all market verticals, supporting and expanding PPDS’ network of system integrators – including specialist dvLED training – and assisting local and global PPDS teams (International Key Account Directors) for regional and international projects and opportunities.

Discussing Marco’s appointment, Rainer Bloch, who has been with the company since 2007, explained that Marco’s past experience, and his in-depth technical knowledge of the LED and digital signage markets, made him the standout choice for this important role: “PPDS is an ambitious company and it’s essential we have the right

previously helped build and develop a number of SaaS companies.

“The MediaTech market was and remains highly fragmented”, comments Maarten Verwaest. “We knew that developing an end-to-end and more integrated solution would be a herculean task, but today Limecraft is recognised by many blue-chip customers for its powerful feature set, its reliability, and its rapid pace of development. Joris immediately felt like a great fit for our company and ambitions, and I feel that the next few years are going to be extremely exciting”.

“When we started the company back in 2010, the idea of outsourcing management of audio-visual assets to a cloud company was very controversial”, notes Nico Oors. “We worked in close partnership with our customers, developing a unique hybrid cloud strategy together. It essentially combines the best of both worlds: local storage and computing power and online collaboration. It took a pandemic to make people realise that remote collaboration is here to stay and actually improves the quality and volume of creative output. Our ambitious roadmap for Limecraft puts us in a great position to capitalise on this new approach to content”.

“Producers and broadcasters are being challenged by a paradigm shift swirling through the media industry. They need to balance production cost, accelerated delivery to multiple platforms, and operational flexibility, while complying with increasing standards of storytelling and image quality”, states Joris Claes. “Limecraft team truly understands the creation processes. They have managed to create a platform that streamlines technological complexity and simplifies the day-to-day work of thousands of video professionals”.

hospitality venues in the UK and across Europe.

Led by Hotensify owner and MD, Tony Tizzard – formerly Global Business Manager at Philips Professional Display Solutions, Airwave Europe Limited and Quadriga Worldwide – Grant hails from previous roles including Chief Technical Officer at Orbiss - a leader in Telephone, Interactive TV and Wi-Fi systems for the hospitality sector over the last 30 years. During his 19-year tenure at Orbiss, Grant was the technical and project lead for deployments such as The O2 (Millennium Dome Infrastructure), the Aviator Hotel at Farnborough, and the world-famous Stoke Park Hotel - the backdrop for many memorable films, such as Bridget Jones's Diary, Goldfinger, Tomorrow Never Dies and Layer Cake.

Systems Integration and Innovation have been cornerstones of Grant's experience in the industry thus far, coupled with his experience in Project Management, Network Design & Implementation, Guest UX creation, and passion for making technology relatable. Grant sees the future at Hotensify as a very exciting opportunity:

“Already, within my first month at Hotensify, I have been delighted to engage with a wide variety of global strategic partners and customers alike, many of whom I have had the pleasure of working with previously” he said, adding: “Facilitating closely with these partners on an array of different solutions and architectures, we help create, support and energise the delivered solution, ultimately ensuring customer satisfaction."

Tony Tizzard, nicknamed ‘Mr Hospitality’ by colleagues and peers during a successful 16-year career, spoke of his delight in Grant’s appointment: “We view the addition of Grant's experience and skills as a significant reinforcement to our already flourishing team, further broadening the depth of Engineering and Support Services we have available for our customers here at Hotensify. We are delighted to Lightware appoints Sven Pelters in key role as Global Training Manager s in the critical role of Global Training Manager.Working from his native Germany, Pelters’s first task is to manage the opening

PPDS appoints accomplished AV specialist Marco Priebe to spearhead Philips dvLED growth strategy and ambitions in the DACH market

people in place to ensure opportunities are seized, objectives met, and that our upward trajectory continues,” said Rainer. “Our innovative suite of Philips dvLED solutions have and continues to make a big impression in the DACH market, and demand for our solutions continues to grow. We are delighted to welcome Marco to the team and wish him every success in this exciting period of the company’s history.

Marco acknowledged that, having witnessed PPDS’ ability to deliver “highly innovative” and in many cases “world first solutions” to the market, and understanding the company’s ambitions, both in DACH and globally, made the opportunity to be part of the journey simply too good to miss: “PPDS is a company that leads from the front, and is making significant waves in the DACH market”, Marco explained. “The company’s commitment to delivering world-leading and sustainable solutions to customers, backed with dedicated software solutions such as the recently launched Wave ecosystem means PPDS has become a company that cannot be ignored. With the existing, new, and upcoming range dvLED displays, expanding product lifetimes and lowering energy consumption – such as the new Philips In Room 6395 LED –without impacting performance, PPDS is not only delivering incredible solutions, we’re also helping customers to save on costs and create more sustainable business

Ghent-based MediaTech pioneer Limecraft is gearing up for growth with the appointment of Joris Claes as the company’s new CEO. As of 1st June, Claes has assumed the role of CEO from co-founder Maarten Verwaest, who has now become Executive Chair and CRO and will focus on key growth drivers and new markets. Claes’ appointment represents the first stage of an ambitious growth plan for the business, with further strategic appointments expected in the near future.

Flashback to 2010, when VRT-alumni Maarten Verwaest and Nico Oorts, together with Dieter van Rijsselbergen from UGent/Medialab, founded Limecraft with the ambition of creating a complete operating ecosystem for the audio-visual industry. Today, Limecraft profitably serves over 115 customers and countless producers, and has delivered consistent growth in excess of 10% per quarter. To jumpstart the company from scale-up to the industry’s preferred choice for Media Asset Management solutions, Limecraft has decided to strengthen the management team with specific skills and experience: Joris Claes has a proven track record in C-suite roles and has

Leading ‘White Label' hospitality technology and commercial AV engineering company, Hotensify has appointed Grant Cullingford as its Technical Operations Director. Founded in 2019, Hotensify is one of Europe’s fastest-growing integration and consultancy specialists, delivering fully tailored solutions – including digital signage, LED, interactive displays, in-room TVs and dedicated software – to leading

of a Training Centre in the country that will provide state-of-the-art training in key strategic areas for the company including equipment demos, operation, and processes. Once successfully up and running, Pelters will then oversee the opening of further Training Centres around the world as Lightware continues to expand its global business.Pelters brings over 15 years of experience at Kramer Germany GmbH, most recently as EMEA Training Manager for the entire EMEA region, following several years working as Head of Technical Support, where he led the German support team and the European Repair Centre.

As well as establishing the new Training Centre at Lightware, Pelters will oversee the operation and development of Lightware’s team of trainers in the company’s expanding network of offices all around the world. He will also leverage his extensive experience to fulfil the role of Lightware’s main trainer in Germany.“Sven has a proven track record of establishing training programs at the very highest level in our industry, and his extensive knowledge of the training sector will help us to improve the services we offer our customers on a worldwide basis,” says Tibor Fejes, Head of Training at Lightware Visual Engineering.

“I am delighted to be joining Lightware at such an important time for the company as it looks to further build out its training capabilities worldwide,” comments Pelters. “Training is a vital part of success in the AV industry, and Lightware is investing in all the right areas to ensure the company’s continued growth trajectory both in Europe and in territories around the world.”

Ghent-based MediaTech pioneer Limecraft is gearing up for growth with the appointment of Joris Claes as the company’s new CEO.

Leading White Label Hospitality Technology and Commercial AV Engineering company, Hotensify has appointed Grant Cullingford as its Technical Operations Director.

School & Academies show Birmingham 2023

The School & Academies Show Birmingham will return to the NEC, Birmingham on 22nd November 2023, bringing together over 3,000 school leaders with 150 leading education suppliers to provide the perfect platform to network, connect and discuss the biggest challenges facing the education sector. As the UK’s leading education policy and best-practice event, the Schools & Academies Show provides a unique opportunity for education suppliers to showcase their products and services directly to senior buyers and influencers including Headteachers, School Business Managers, MAT CEOs, Procurement Managers and more.

Last year’s event took place on 17th November at the NEC, Birmingham for a day of learning, networking and supplier evaluation. For this year’s edition, the show’s return to Birmingham provides the perfect opportunity for the sector to continue moving from recovery to re-discovery. Last year. the event brought together over 3,000 attendees, 150 inspirational speakers and 200+ leading education suppliers to provide the perfect meet-

Last year. the event brought together over 3,000 attendees, 150 inspirational speakers and 200+ leading education suppliers to provide the perfect meeting and networking space for senior leaders from schools to meet and discuss how to overcome the biggest challenges facing schools in the UK

ing and networking space for senior leaders from schools to meet and discuss how to overcome the biggest challenges facing schools in the UK. To be part of the UK’s largest education discussion of this year, and to gain unmatched brand

Event report

Digital Signage Summit Europe 2023

exposure with a highly engaged audience, with the opportunity to generate high-quality leads and build lasting relationships check exhibitors and programme details at https://schoolsandacademiesshow.co.uk,

Immersive tech at ITW 2023

Immersive Tech Week is a new event from the team behind VR Days. Organisers of the event say that the countdown has begun for the most holistic tech event of the year - Immersive Tech Week 2023! “Get ready to be blown away from November 28th to December 1st, 2023, at de Doelen in the buzzing city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, where we're taking the tech world by storm! Embark on a journey of discovery into XR, AR, VR, AI, and more! Expand your knowledge, experience cutting-edge technology, and connect with pioneers in the industry.”

Early Bird tickets are available now:

Week Pass: Normal: €499 Early Bird: €299

Day Pass: Normal: €169 Early Bird: €99

*Prices including VAT and excluding service charges

Immersive Tech Week 2023, proudly organised by the VR-

Days Foundation team, is where the magic happens! Our mission? To celebrate and showcase the latest and greatest in immersive technology, bring together tech gurus, creative minds, new talents, and curious explorers like you!

Check out our preliminary pro-

DSS Europe returned to Munich on 5-6 July to take a deep dive into the state of the industry and the key trends that are shaping the future of digital signage. Widely regarded as one of the industry’s most important business events, Digital Signage Summit Europe (DSS Europe) celebrated its 50th edition at Hilton Munich Airport in Germany, last month. A joint venture between Integrated Systems Events and invidis consulting, the summit attracted digital signage leaders from across Europe to explore this year’s theme: ‘Engaging Experiences - Concepts, Creation & Content’. Sponsored by Google Chrome Enterprise, DSS Europe welcomed over 350 delegates, exhibitors and speakers to enjoy two days of thought-leadership, insightful panel discussions, industry overviews and the latest innovations from exhibiting brands. This year’s stellar line up of speakers, including experts from First Impression, Futuresource, Google, M-Cube, Trison, Visual Art and ZetaDisplay and spanning a wide range of sectors such as media, retail,

ed a comprehensive market overview in which he revealed that global advertising markets have increased by 6% year on year, driven by a DooH growth of 26%. Florian also revealed that the overall market forecast for 2024 is looking to be flat. Further insights revealed that market growth in Europe is tracking ahead of the US and Asia, thanks to a wider implementation of smart digital signage and experiences. The creation of unique, immersive experiences in a physical space is increasing with ‘Pop Up’ and concept stores growing in popularity.

Content, canvas, and location are key elements in creating a distinctive physical journey that differentiates from an online retail experience. Factors generating successful implementation include content being relevant and memorable. “There needs to be a balance between the things you want to present and the stories you want to tell.” Hubert van Doorne, Nexmosphere – on the ideal placement of screens and sensors in the retail space.

Other themes driving industry

consumption, light pollution, and installation failures such as visible cables. Plus, a plea to use standardised APIs only. Delegates were also the first to receive a copy of the new 2023 invidis Yearbook, widely regarded as the go-to industry reference point for exclusive insights and market trends. The latest issue features key topics, Engaging Experiences and Green Signage. invidis also hosted its annual Strategy Awards, celebrating excellence in the digital signage industry. Florian Rotberg and Stefan Schieker of invidis consulting GmbH presented the awards to companies that are leading the way in digital signage strategy.

The winners were:

• Engaging Experiences –TRISON

• Green Signage - PPDS - Professional Display Solutions

• Business Critical – Xovis

• Innovation - Google Chrome OS

• Rising Star - First Impression audiovisual

• Industry Leadership - PPDSProfessional Display Solutions Rotberg concludes, “This year’s

gramme here and start planning your visit by exploring which amazing talks, performances, and events are happening each day at Immersive Tech Week. Take a breath and explore the programme! For details contact: nfo@vrdays.co.

and corporate, addressed the current market outlook and the impact of major trends.

Highlights included Dave Haynes, editor of Sixteen: Nine, and Mark McDermott, CEO at ScreenCloud, discussing ‘How to get the message across to your employees’ and why agnostic software solutions that integrate with other systems are helping to streamline internal communications. While Daan Berends, Creative Director at First Impression Audiovisual, explored ‘Why digital solutions lack success without spot-on content’ with practical advice on how ordinary content can be just as engaging as digital spectaculars.

During day one of the summit, Florian Rotberg, Chair of DSS Europe and Managing Director of invidis consulting, present-

development include Generative AI such as Adobe Firefly, Sustainability, Carbon Credits and Cyber Security. These topics formed the basis for many of the conversations, both on the main stage and at the networking sessions, during the summit. “Digital signage must bring something new and deliver added value to companies. Not just videos that play on a loop.” commented Christophe Billaud, Telelogos.

On day two, the invidis team opened with a ‘Wake Up Call’ keynote, highlighting the best and worst practices in digital signage, with examples from their recent global tour. These included common pitfalls, including content that doesn’t inspire (blank and poorly calibrated screens should be avoided), poor visibility, 24-hour power

edition with over 500 visits was a resounding success with a wealth of market leaders and industry experts addressing the state of experiences and discussing trends and drivers for the year ahead. These valuable discussions pave the way for unlocking the potential of digital signage and DooH still to be explored. DSS Europe is a great opportunity for the industry to come together, explore and collaborate in a creative and effective way for a more sustainable future – see you next year!”

DSS Europe is a joint venture between Integrated Systems Events, producers of the Integrated Systems Europe exhibition, and invidis consulting, the leading German digital signage consultancy. DSS Europe 2024 takes place in Munich next July.