On February 11 2013, ConcertSound Clair officially changes its trading name to Clair UK and begins the latest chapter of its illustrious life as one of Britain’s first-generation live audio service companies.

Founded in 1977 as Concert Sound Limited, the firm evolved from the break-up of Welsh rock band, Man, whose team included manager Barrie Marshall, agent Tim Boyle from the Arthur Howes Agency, tour manager David ‘Tag’ Hall and road crew Jeff Hooper and Robert Collins.

At Boyle’s suggestion, Man’s PA system began to be rented out to other artists after they played their last show in December 1976, and Concert Sound was born in Watford with Hall initially at the business helm.

Within the first two years of operation, Concert Sound quickly earned a reputation for its excellent standard of service with artists ranging from Dire Straits, Tom Jones and Leo Sayer to a new breed of punk rockers including The Clash and The Ramones.

Later moving to Luton, the business thrived throughout the 1980s and 90s, and began working closely as the UK touring partner to US-based Clair Brothers. This partnership was solidified at the end of 2008 when Concert Sound joined forces with Switzerland’s AudioRent Clair, thus becoming the UK wing of the Clair Global family.

Aron Ross, Clair UK’s general manager, comments: “I see our name change as a logical move forward to reinforce our position as part of the Clair Global network. We are still the same individuals and this re-branding simply presents a united front, and underlines that we are delivering the same service that has been provided in the USA and Europe for many years. It’s a name and legacy that we are very proud to share.”

Coinciding with the re-branding, Clair UK has a new web page at www.clairglobal.co.uk.
The company will also be a sponsor at the TPi Awards 2013 in London on February 11.