Audio Rent Clair, Europe’s leading touring audio supplier, and UK-based Concert Sound have joined forces in a move announced in late 2008, and with the Clair presence in the UK becoming operational in early 2009, both companies are jointly pursuing new prospects and opportunities starting in January 2009,
Both Audio Rent Clair and Concert Sound have long histories in the tour sound and contracting segments of the professional audio market and have co-operated on many events in the past, most notably on tours and one-off events with Sir Paul McCartney, Mark Knopfler and Tina Turner.
Jürg Hügin, Chairman of the Audio Rent Clair board, comments, “The opportunities for both companies that became apparent when we started talking have made this such an obvious move for us. Our clients have asked us for increased flexibility and we have been able to answer in a way that extends our in-house skills base even further, as well as adding logistical benefits. It’s a great situation for everyone.”
As part of the Audio Rent Clair group, Concert Sound Clair will maintain its own identity and commercial operation. Both companies expect to use the synergies of the newly expanded group, which includes lighting and video rental, to further their ability to deliver high-quality service for their clients.
Concert Sound’s current management team and staff will remain in place, working in partnership with their Swiss based colleagues.
Concert Sound Clair’s Managing Director Tim Boyle stated, “I am excited about the new products and services we can bring to our clients and also for the new opportunities that will arise for every member of the team, both here and in Switzerland.”
Audio Rent Clair’s 90,000 square foot warehouse in Aesch, located in the heart of Europe, will remain the main hub for the European Clair touring inventory. Meanwhile, Concert Sound Clair’s presence
close to London gives access to proprietary Clair products and services for UK-based clients.
The addition of Concert Sound Clair as part of the worldwide group allows for an even higher level of support and service for Clair clients and underlines the group’s continued commitment to meeting the
needs of the modern touring market.
With nine locations spanning four continents, the Clair group aims to truly deliver consistency and backup while remaining at the forefront of technology, clearly demonstrated by the recent introduction of new PA systems and significant investment in control and amplification packages.
Troy Clair, President and CEO of Clair, stated, “Having Concert Sound as part of the Clair group is much more than a logistical move. It is the culmination of a close working relationship and friendships that stretch back many years. Time and again the UK team has demonstrated its commitment to service and pushing the industry forward. As such, it is a natural fit into our organization and we are excited by what it can add.”
Barrie Marshall, Chairman of Concert Sound, added, “I have been extremely proud of the remarkable team and achievements at Concert Sound over the years. I am delighted that we are able to join forces with Troy Clair and his team, whom we have admired for many years – it is a perfect fit. I will step back as Chairman from the end of the year, but remain a Director of the Board”.
For more information:
Audio Rent Clair Website
Concert Sound Website
