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Category: Business News

  • WAVIT Expands 2026 Mary Cook Empowerment Scholarship to Support Women in AV/IT

    WAVIT Expands 2026 Mary Cook Empowerment Scholarship to Support Women in AV/IT

    WAVIT (Women in AV/IT) has announced the return of the Mary Cook Empowerment Award: Designing the Future for 2026, continuing its mission to support women starting careers in the AV/IT industry. Created in honor of Mary Cook, a respected advocate for women in audiovisual technology, the scholarship provides early-career professionals with access to education, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can help shape their future in AV system design and technology integration.

    This year, with support from Shure and AVIXA, WAVIT is expanding the program to award two recipients instead of one. Each winner will receive a full InfoComm 2026 experience in Las Vegas, including travel, lodging, show access, memberships, and mentorship support, giving emerging women professionals valuable exposure to the latest industry technologies and leaders.

    WAVIT (Women in AV/IT) proudly announces the return of the Mary Cook Empowerment Award: Designing the Future, an annual scholarship created to honor the legacy of the late Mary Cook, a trailblazer who championed the advancement of women in the AV/IT industry.

    Mary Cook’s AV career began in 1991, and she later co-founded local AVIXA Women’s Council groups in Atlanta and Grand Rapids. Her dedication to mentorship and advocacy helped pave the way for women pursuing careers in technology and AV system design. In recognition of her contributions, Mary was inducted into the SCN Hall of Fame at InfoComm in 2017.

    The Mary Cook Empowerment Award: Designing the Future scholarship continues her mission by supporting women in the early stages of their AV/IT careers and providing access to industry education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

    In 2026, Shure has made it possible for WAVIT to award two scholarship recipients, expanding the program’s impact and providing additional opportunities for women entering the professional audiovisual industry.

    To support the scholarship experience, AVIXA will once again provide a full InfoComm experience, bringing recipients to the largest professional audiovisual trade show in North America to explore emerging technologies, attend education sessions, and build meaningful industry connections.

    “Mary was devoted to making tangible and lasting contributions to the AV industry and supporting women as they developed their careers,” said Sarah Joyce, Chief Global Officer, AVIXA. “We’re honored to collaborate with WAVIT and Shure to continue this scholarship in Mary’s name and help empower women to thrive in the AV industry.”

    As a founding sponsor, Shure plays a vital role in supporting the scholarship and advancing opportunities for women entering the AV and audio technology fields.

    “Mary Cook’s legacy continues to inspire the industry,” said Althea Ricketts, VP Corporate Initiatives from Shure. “We are proud to support WAVIT in honoring her impact while helping develop the next generation of women leaders in AV/IT.”

    Scholarship Benefits

    The two selected recipients will receive invaluable opportunities designed to accelerate their careers in AV system design and audiovisual technology.

    Each recipient will receive:

    • Full InfoComm Experience – Including show passes, education access, travel, and lodging for InfoComm 2026 in Las Vegas (June 17–19)
      • Industry Memberships – WAVIT membership, AVIXA membership, and access to WAVIT’s mentorship program
      • Mentorship Opportunities – Direct access to industry leaders and guidance through WAVIT’s mentorship network

    Scholarship Selection Process

    WAVIT has formed a dedicated scholarship committee responsible for reviewing applications and selecting finalists. Qualified candidates must:

    • Be women in the early stages of their careers (approximately two years of experience or less)
      • Demonstrate interest in AV system design, technology integration, or AEC-related fields
      • Be based in the United States or Canada
      • Show passion for creating innovative audiovisual environments

    2026 Application Timeline

    • Applications Open: April 2026
      • Application Deadline: April 29, 2026
      • Final Candidate Review: May 25, 2026
      • Scholarship Recipients Announced: June 1, 2026
      • Scholarship Experience: InfoComm 2026, June 17–19 in Las Vegas

    Honoring Mary Cook’s Legacy

    To celebrate Mary Cook’s impact on the AV community, WAVIT will continue promotional efforts throughout the year, including industry outreach, social media campaigns, and partnerships with organizations that support diversity and inclusion in technology.

    “Mary Cook exemplified what it means to uplift and inspire others,” said Brandy Alvarado-Miranda, Founder of WAVIT. “Through this scholarship, we are continuing her mission, empowering women to enter the AV/IT industry, grow their careers, and shape the future of technology.”

  • Absen 2026 Spring Launch Brings Products as the Bridge and Culture as the Bond

    Absen 2026 Spring Launch Brings Products as the Bridge and Culture as the Bond

    Absen hosted its 2026 Spring Launch in China, bringing together global partners to showcase its latest LED innovations and reinforce its customer-first strategy. The company unveiled its updated ProAV product roadmap, featuring upgraded and new display series designed for diverse applications, from high-end indoor displays to energy-efficient outdoor solutions. With a strong emphasis on technology leadership and innovation, Absen aims to deliver greater value and performance across the AV and IT ecosystem.

    Beyond products, Absen highlighted its expanded global service system, AbsenCare, offering faster response times and wider support coverage. The event also emphasized collaboration, with partners sharing real-world use cases and participating in strategic discussions. Concluding with global partnership agreements, Absen reinforced its commitment to long-term growth, stronger international relationships, and continued advancement in display technology.

    Absen, a global leader in LED display technology and solutions, hosted its 2026 Spring Launch at its Dongjiang Intelligent Manufacturing Center. Led by Chairman Hansen Ding, the event gathered over 100 clients, partners, and industry experts from 25 countries. United by Absen’s innovative product line as the bridge and culture of service as the bond, the event brought together global partners to exchange views on industry trends, explore technological transformation, and foster cross-cultural dialogue. The event showcased Absen’s 25 years of deep expertise in LED display technology, while reinforcing its commitment to working hand in hand with partners worldwide for shared success and future growth.

    In his opening remarks, Chairman Hansen Ding stated, “Absen has always believed that products can serve as cultural ambassadors that transcend borders. Through high-quality solutions, we aim to build bridges that foster understanding and exchange between nations and communities.”

    Rooted in China, yet with a global presence, Absen’s growth is anchored in its core values of Honesty, Gratitude, and Responsibility; principles deeply aligned with thousands of years of Confucian and Taoist heritage. Chairman Ding extended a heartfelt invitation to global partners to visit China, experience its openness and vitality, and forge friendships that go beyond mere business transactions. “Let our screens be the bond that connects us as friends and partners across oceans,” he urged.

    Strategic Focus: Building Growth on Core Competencies

    Amidst a complex global landscape marked by intertwined economic and technological cycles, Absen remains committed to a long-term strategy. For 2026, the company’s strategy centers on “Creating Value for Customers.” Guided by this core, Absen is strengthening six key competencies: maintaining technological leadership, amplifying brand influence, building a service moat, optimizing cost advantages, expanding sales networks, and reinforcing organizational culture.

    By driving steady growth with blockbuster products, accelerating R&D breakthroughs, and deepening market insights, Absen aims to enhance its brand power globally. The company is committed to efficient collaboration with upstream and downstream supply chain partners, sharing benefits and achieving sustainable growth through customer success.

    Technology Leadership: Setting New Standards in Display

    Product Matrix: Flagship Leadership Across All Scenarios

    Absen officially released its 2026 ProAV Product Roadmap, upgrading three major series, including the KLCOB V2, NX, iCon X136 V2, and launching four new series, including the CL V3, KDS, AW Pro, ALT. This comprehensive matrix covers indoor COB/SMD, creative displays, and DOOH applications.

    Key highlights include:

    •  CL V3 Series: Featuring 9-layer HTB ultra-black packaging technology with a contrast ratio of 30,000:1, redefining standards for high-end professional displays.
    • A25 Series: A benchmark for green transformation in outdoor advertising, with daily energy consumption below 1kWh/m2 and a 10-year warranty.
    • ALT Series: Pioneering a new category of “Dual-Use Screens” that seamlessly integrate display functionality with interior decoration.
    • KDS & AW Pro Series: Showcasing excellence in ultra-thin form factors and outdoor ultra-high definition.

    Service Upgrade: The AbsenCare Global System

    Guided by a customer-centric philosophy, Absen introduced an upgrade to its AbsenCare global service system. Built around the concept of “Trusted,” the system delivers three core values, including Fast, Professional, and Global, setting a new industry benchmark.

    The global customer service center operates 24/7, with response times within 10 seconds online and on-site support reaching key regions within four hours. Backed by more than 170 experienced engineers, each with an average of over eight years in the field, and the ACE certification program that has empowered more than 5,400 engineers worldwide, Absen’s service capabilities continue to expand. Its network includes 15 primary service centers, 25 secondary centers, and over 1,000 authorized partners, covering 165 countries and regions.

    Ecosystem Resonance: From Dialogue to Action

    Customer success is the driving force behind Absen’s innovation. At the event, partners from France, Switzerland, and the United States shared real-world case studies demonstrating product value. Three roundtable forums focused on enterprise, retail, and supply chain topics, where global experts explored the future of digitalization and energized the broader ecosystem.

    From practical insights to strategic alignment, this cross-border exchange highlighted the vitality and potential of Absen’s global ecosystem.

    Consensus leads to action. The event culminated in a milestone moment – the global strategic partnership signing ceremony. Absen formalized its 2026 agreements with key partners from Europe, the Americas, and Africa. More than a business milestone, these agreements represent a strong endorsement of Absen’s strategic clarity and reliability. Partnerships have evolved from intent to long-term commitment, marking the beginning of a shared journey toward mutual success in 2026.

     A New Chapter Begins

    The successful conclusion of the launch event highlights Absen’s achievements over the past 25 years, while marking a new starting point for deeper cultural exchange and global collaboration.

    Looking ahead, Absen will continue to uphold its core values of honesty, gratitude, and accountability. Through high-quality products, the company remains committed to fostering mutual understanding between East and West, working alongside global partners to bring the power of technology to every corner of the world.

  • TPV Technology strengthens its commitment to supporting workers’ human rights and the ethical sourcing of materials with new partnerships

    TPV Technology strengthens its commitment to supporting workers’ human rights and the ethical sourcing of materials with new partnerships

    TPV Technology has strengthened its commitment to ethical business practices by partnering with The Mekong Club and European Partnership for Responsible Minerals. These collaborations focus on protecting workers’ rights, eliminating forced labour, and ensuring responsible sourcing across its global supply chain. The move aligns with evolving regulations like the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and reinforces TPV’s long-standing sustainability philosophy across its brands and operations.

    Through these partnerships, TPV gains access to industry expertise, tools, and collaborative networks to tackle complex challenges like modern slavery and conflict minerals. The company continues to follow global standards such as UNGC, ILO, and RBA, while also actively supporting responsible mining initiatives. Overall, this step highlights TPV’s proactive approach to building transparent, ethical, and socially responsible supply chains within the AV and IT ecosystem.

    TPV Technology – the world’s leading supplier of displays and the tech giant behind TP Vision, MMD Monitors and Displays, and AOC, together with PPDS – has further strengthened its global commitment to social sustainability and the human rights of workers by partnering with leading not for profit organisations The Mekong Club and the EPRM.

    Continuing to meet the requirements of the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), these new memberships, focused on social sustainability and human rights, form part of TPV Technology’s unwavering, long held, and deeply ingrained commitment to people, communities, and the planet – a philosophy shared across all business units.

    Stefan van Sabben, Global Director of CSR and Sustainability at TPV Technology, commented: “We are a production oriented organisation with a worldwide network of locations and suppliers. Our responsibility focuses not only on our own sphere of influence but also on processes further down the supply chain. We believe in working both as a community and as a part of communities to amplify our efforts. That is certainly the case with our social responsibility.”

    Joining forces for good

    Founded in 2011 in Hong Kong, The Mekong Club is a leading not for profit organisation that works together with member companies to combat modern slavery, forced labour, and human trafficking.

    Recognised and respected globally, its members span multiple industries, including manufacturing, finance, and hospitality, reflecting a shared determination to drive meaningful change. Members include renowned global brands, including Mattel, Decathlon, Unilever, Amazon, and The Walt Disney Company.

    Membership provides access to expert guidance, practical tools, and a network of like minded organisations committed to addressing these complex challenges.

    Commenting on the new membership, Stefan commented: “We strictly prohibit all forms of forced labour and modern slavery in both our own operations and in our supply chains. Membership of the Mekong Club will help us ensure forced labour is never used in the scope of our business.”

    He continued: “To address modern slavery challenges across sectors and industries, collaboration with other organisations is key. We look forward to collaborating with The Mekong Club and fellow members to deepen our knowledge and to exchange ideas and learnings with other businesses that are serious about making a difference.”

    TP Vision, MMD Monitors and Displays, AOC, and PPDS rigorously follow the human rights and labour standards set by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA).

    Ethical sourcing of materials

    Meanwhile, the European Partnership for Responsible Minerals (EPRM) concentrates on human rights and environmental challenges linked to mineral extraction and processing, an area at the very start of TPV Technology’s supply chains.

    Set up in 2016, key areas of focus for the ERPM include artisanal and small scale mining (ASM) in conflict affected and high risk areas.

    By bringing together companies, governments, and civil society organisations, the EPRM works to improve working conditions and environmental practices. It also promotes responsible sourcing of key minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold. Through on the ground projects and collaborative support, the initiative helps supply chain participants strengthen their responsible sourcing practices.

    Members include blue chip organisations such as Royal Philips, NXP, Samsung, Intel, and Fairphone, as well as other supply chain actors, such as Valcambi (a refiner), Gold by Gold Colombia (a gold purchaser and trader), and the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI – of which TPV is also a member). Civil society members include Solidaridad, Terre des hommes, and Pact.

    TPV Technology publishes an annual Conflict Minerals report that outlines its commitment, policy and procedures regarding the responsible sourcing of minerals, with the company committed to not purchasing raw materials, subassemblies or supplies that are known to contain conflict minerals that directly or indirectly finance or benefit armed groups in the DRC or other CAHRAs (conflict affected and high risk areas).

    Furthermore, the company has been a member of the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) since 2015 and a member of the International Tin Supply Chain Initiative (ITSCI) since early 2023. Since December 2023 – and recently renewed for another three years – it has actively funded and supported ITSCI’s responsible and inclusive mining governance projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Marcella Klinker, Sustainability Specialist – Human Rights and Supply Chains at TPV Technology, said: “For us at TPV Technology, joining the EPRM reinforces our commitment to responsibly sourcing the minerals used in our products and continuously strengthening our mineral due diligence practices. We look forward to collaborating with the EPRM and other members on developing innovative partnerships and initiatives that enhance due diligence practices and support more responsible mineral supply chains.”

  • AtlasIED Launches New Experience Center in Germany

    AtlasIED Launches New Experience Center in Germany

    AtlasIED has expanded its global footprint with the opening of a new experience center and showroom in Warendorf, Germany. The facility strengthens the company’s presence in the European market while providing local customers, integrators, and partners with hands-on access to AtlasIED’s commercial audio technologies, training, and support.

    The new center will demonstrate a range of solutions including the Atlas+Fyne loudspeaker family with IsoFlare™ point-source technology, the Atmosphere digital audio and control platform, Aimline digitally steerable arrays, amplifiers, and Dante-enabled audio solutions. By creating a dedicated European hub, AtlasIED aims to strengthen customer engagement, showcase its technology portfolio, and support the growing AV integration community across the region.

    AtlasIED, a recognized leader in the commercial audio and security industries, has announced the expansion of its global presence with the opening of a new experience center and showroom in Warendorf, Germany. This initiative highlights AtlasIED’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional local customer service and training, and reinforces AtlasIED’s dedication to its European customers.

    The beautiful and historic town of Warendorf has long been a centre of innovation and is an ideal location for a centralized European office. As AtlasIED’s customer base continues to rapidly evolve in the European market, this local presence will prove to be profoundly beneficial.

    “The global expansion of AtlasIED is at the core of our mission,” said Matt Czyzewski, Executive Vice President, AtlasIED. “Germany plays a significant role in the European market, and being able to connect directly with potential customers will expand our efforts to a new level.”

    The experience center will showcase AtlasIED technology solutions that have been evolving and improving installations for over 90 years. Highlights include the impressive performance of the Atlas+Fyne family of loudspeakers. The IsoFlare™ point-source transducer technology delivers high output and premium performance for venues where guest experience is paramount. Additionally, the centre will feature a wide variety of AtlasIED solutions, showcasing versatility and breadth of application from the Atmosphere digital audio and control platform, to Aimline digitally steerable arrays and amplifiers, to diverse loudspeaker form factors and Dante™ enabled audio.

    “Our European customer base is rapidly growing, and I see it firsthand,” said Simon Godfrey, Director of Sales – EMEA at AtlasIED. “Being able to showcase our technology directly to all of our customers, the people I work closely with, is essential, and I look forward to witnessing the growth that this next step will propel us into.”

  • Arch Platform Technologies and Wacom Announce Strategic Integration of Wacom Bridge for High Performance Virtual Creative and Design Workflows

    Arch Platform Technologies and Wacom Announce Strategic Integration of Wacom Bridge for High Performance Virtual Creative and Design Workflows

    Arch Platform Technologies has announced a strategic integration with Wacom to bring Wacom Bridge support directly into the Arch Platform. This integration allows creative professionals to use Wacom pen displays and tablets with remote cloud workstations while maintaining full driver functionality, customized settings, and low-latency performance. The solution delivers a local-like experience, enabling seamless switching between local and remote desktops without compromising responsiveness or accuracy.

    The collaboration is designed to support distributed creative teams by simplifying remote workstation management, improving scalability, and optimizing compute costs. With support for Windows Server, Windows Client, and macOS clients via Amazon DCV, the integrated solution offers a flexible, high-performance environment for artists, designers, and studios working in remote or hybrid setups.

    Arch Platform Technologies, a leading platform for creating and managing cloud workstation infrastructure, and Wacom, the world’s leading manufacturer of interactive pen displays and pen tablets, today announced a strategic integration that will bring Wacom Bridge support directly into the Arch Platform.

    This collaboration provides creative and design professionals with a seamless and high-performance experience when using a Wacom device in conjunction with a remote workstation. It enables users to maintain full driver support for their Wacom devices, including customized settings, with reduced latency, seamless switching between local and remote desktops, and Wacom Inkline, allowing for a “local-like” feel even when connecting to a virtual workstation from a different location. This advancement allows artists, designers, and imaging professionals to work with their preferred Wacom pen displays and pen tablets from virtually anywhere, experiencing the same responsiveness and accuracy as if they were working locally.

    Benefits of the Arch Platform and Wacom Bridge Integration:

    • Unparalleled Creative Freedom: Artists and designers can now achieve native Wacom input performance when accessing their powerful Arch Platform-hosted workstations from any location, fostering greater flexibility and collaboration across distributed teams.
    • Enhanced Performance and Responsiveness: Wacom Bridge’s optimized remote driver protocol ensures minimal latency and maximum accuracy for pen input, delivering a natural and fluid experience even over long distances.
    • Streamlined Workflows: The seamless integration simplifies the setup and management of remote creative environments, including support for roaming profiles, allowing users to focus on their work rather than technical complexities.
    • Scalability and Flexibility: Users can leverage the inherent scalability and performance right-sizing features of the Arch Platform to manage workstation resources and to protect valuable assets, all while maintaining Wacom’s industry-leading user experience.
    • Cost Efficiency: Users can reduce the need to over provision compute power and pay only for what they need and use with the Arch Platform, accessible with just about any end-point computer attached to a Wacom device.

    “Our partnership with Wacom and the integration of Wacom Bridge is a game-changer for the creative industries,” said Guy Botham, CEO of Arch Platform Technologies. “We are committed to providing the most advanced and accessible tools for content creation, and this collaboration ensures that artists can leverage the full power of their Wacom devices within the flexible and scalable environment of the Arch Platform, without compromise.”

    “Wacom Bridge was designed to remove the barriers of distance for creative professionals, ensuring their Wacom experience remains consistent and precise regardless of their physical location,” said Koji Yano, Head of Creative Experience Unit at Wacom Co., Ltd. “Integrating with Arch’s powerful workstation infrastructure platform creates an even more compelling solution for studios and individual artists looking to maximize efficiency and creative output in a remote-first world.”

    The integrated solution is available for free trial with an Arch Platform trial or subscription and a free Amazon DCV license. Wacom Bridge is officially available for purchase directly from Wacom and its sales affiliates. Wacom Bridge through Amazon DCV supports Windows Server and Windows Client setups as well as MacOS clients.

  • Dirac Enters Physical Retail Through HiFi Klubben Partnership Across Northern Europe

    Dirac Enters Physical Retail Through HiFi Klubben Partnership Across Northern Europe

    Dirac has partnered with HiFi Klubben to bring Dirac Live software licenses into physical retail stores across Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Netherlands. For the first time, customers can purchase Dirac Live licenses in-store alongside compatible home theatre and HiFi hardware, creating a more integrated buying experience. The move reflects growing demand for advanced room correction technology as Dirac Live is now supported by more than 120 devices across 30 major audio brands.

    The partnership simplifies access to Dirac’s room optimization software, including Dirac Live ART and Bass Control, while giving retailers a new high-value revenue stream. With strong year-on-year growth and high user satisfaction, Dirac is positioning retail as a scalable channel to expand adoption, improve system performance outcomes, and streamline post-purchase setup for customers.

    Swedish digital audio pioneer Dirac today announced a partnership with HiFi Klubben, the Danish high-end audio and home entertainment retailer, to offer the first in-person retail sales of Dirac Live licenses. Beginning this year, customers can purchase Dirac Live software licenses directly at HiFi Klubben locations across Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany and the Netherlands – alongside compatible home theatre and HiFi systems.

    Dirac Live is now available in 120+ home theatre devices across 30 leading brands, including Denon, Marantz, NAD, Arcam, Klipsch, Onkyo, and more. As adoption has expanded, consumer demand has grown rapidly – especially following the mass-market availability of Dirac Live Active Room Treatment (ART).

    By bringing Dirac Live licenses into the retail environment, HiFi Klubben unites software and hardware at the point of purchase – giving customers a simpler, more connected path from expert guidance to complete system performance.

    “Working with HiFi Klubben unlocks a new chapter for Dirac Live in the retail environment,” said Martin Thulin, Dirac Partner Manager. “Our technologies are developed to make any room sound its best by revealing greater clarity, detail, and balance and can now be purchased directly at the point of sale. That means when a customer leaves the store with a Dirac-enabled system, they also have the license in hand to unlock the system’s full potential in their listening room.”

    HiFi Klubben stores will offer five Dirac Live license products: Dirac Live ART; Dirac Live Bass Control; Dirac Live Upgrade (Limited to Full); Dirac Live Room Correction Full (for stereo devices); and Dirac Live Room Correction Full (for multichannel devices).

    Each license applies Dirac’s advanced room correction and sound optimization technology, which analyzes how sound behaves within a room and automatically adjusts the speakers to eliminate distortion, correct timing issues, and balance the overall sound. The result is greater clarity, tighter bass, reduced resonances, and a more immersive, natural listening experience throughout the space.

    Over the past five years, Dirac has seen Dirac Live license sales accelerate substantially across the home theatre and HiFi segments, with year-on-year growth of 77% from 2024 to 2025. Additionally, 94% of users reported better sound after applying room correction*.

    This surge reflects rising consumer expectations for high-performance systems – both for music and cinema – and the expanding integration of Dirac Live across device categories and brands.

    “With Dirac Live now available directly in our stores, we can give customers everything they need to achieve truly exceptional sound – from the right components to the software that perfects them,” said Andreas Härnlöv, HiFi Klubben Country Manager – Sweden. “It’s a natural extension of how we help our community get closer to the music and the movies they love – by ensuring every system delivers its full acoustic potential the moment it’s set up at home.”

    The Dirac-HiFi Klubben partnership aligns with how home theatre shoppers prefer to buy: they demo in-store, get expert guidance, and purchase the complete hardware-software system in a single visit. For retailers, offering Dirac Live licenses on the sales floor adds a high-value revenue opportunity that improves customer outcomes and simplifies post-purchase setup and calibration.

    “Dirac Live’s growing availability across devices and brands has created clear pull from enthusiasts and first-time buyers alike,” concluded Anders Storm, CEO at Dirac. “Bringing licenses into the retail environment makes access simpler for customers and creates a scalable model for the broader retail channel.”

    In-store sales of Dirac Live license cards have begun rolling out at HiFi Klubben locations across Europe, with availability expanding throughout 2026.

  • Rise AV and Rise Broadcast unite for International Women’s Day 2026 event in London

    Rise AV and Rise Broadcast unite for International Women’s Day 2026 event in London

    Rise AV and Rise Broadcast are coming together to host a joint International Women’s Day 2026 event on March 12 at the Curzon Cinema in London. Supported by Vizrt and Diversified, the event will bring around 150 women and allies from AV, broadcast, media, and technology into one room for the first time. The evening will feature a keynote by Suzie Cox (Gladiator Vogue), who will share insights on confidence, resilience, and leadership drawn from her experience in sport and television.

    The programme also includes a panel discussion with participants from Rise’s Mentoring and Elevate initiatives, highlighting real career journeys and the impact of professional development. Built around this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” the event underscores how mentoring and community support strengthen individuals, organisations, and the wider tech industry. The evening will conclude with networking, encouraging collaboration and stronger cross-industry connections.

    Rise AV and Rise Broadcast, the global not-for-profit organisations dedicated to improving gender diversity across technical industries, have today announced a joint International Women’s Day event taking place on Thursday, 12 March 2026, at the Curzon Cinema, London. The event is proudly supported by Vizrt and Diversified.

    For the first time, the event will bring together both the Rise AV and Rise Broadcast communities, creating a unique opportunity to connect with the most diverse room of women and allies across AV, broadcast, media, and technology. Around 150 women are expected to attend.

    Taking place from 4:00–8:00 pm, the event will open with a keynote address from Suzie Cox, famously known as Gladiator Vogue, a motivational speaker, TV personality, and event host. Drawing on her experiences in competitive sport, television, and motherhood, Suzie inspires women to build confidence, embrace challenges, and pursue their ambitions with resilience and energy.

    This is followed by a panel discussion featuring women from the Mentoring and Elevate Programmes. Panellists will share their personal journeys, career insights, and advice gained through participation in Rise’s professional development initiatives.

    This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” sits at the heart of the event, highlighting how mentoring, sponsorship, and community support create long-term benefits not only for individuals but for organisations and the wider industry.

    Founded to empower women through professional development, representation, and community, this joint event marks a significant milestone for both organisations. Rise Broadcast, established just under a decade ago, delivers mentoring programmes across every global region. Rise AV, launched in 2025, builds on this legacy to support women working across the AV industry. Together, the organisations are accelerating progress towards a more inclusive future across technical sectors.

    The event ends with networking drinks, kindly supported by Vizrt and Diversified. Vizrt is a leading provider of real-time graphics and live production solutions for content creators, while Diversified is a leading global provider of audiovisual, broadcast AV and media technology solutions, specialising in designing and building environments of unmatched complexity and scale.

  • Riedel Opens Kuala Lumpur Office to Strengthen Global 24/7 Software and IT Support

    Riedel Opens Kuala Lumpur Office to Strengthen Global 24/7 Software and IT Support

    Riedel Communications has expanded its global support network by opening a new office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The move strengthens the company’s 24/7 Customer Success and IT software support capabilities as its solutions increasingly shift toward software-driven and service-based media workflows. The new facility is led by Mustapha Kamal and is staffed by a team of locally recruited software and IT engineers who provide continuous global support across shifts, including weekends.

    The Kuala Lumpur team will support the deployment and maintenance of key software solutions such as Virtual SmartPanel (VSP), the STAGE platform, and the SAME Smart Audio & Mixing Engine. With Malaysia’s strong IT talent pool and infrastructure, the expansion positions Riedel to better serve customers worldwide while reinforcing its long-term growth strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.

    Riedel Communications has officially opened a new office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, marking a strategic expansion of its global Customer Success and IT software support capabilities. The new facility reinforces Riedel’s commitment to providing round-the-clock expertise as its portfolio continues to evolve toward software-driven and service-based media workflows.

    The Kuala Lumpur office officially opened its doors on Jan. 28 and is led by Mustapha Kamal, Service and Support Manager, who has returned to his home city after four years in Wuppertal. To mark the opening, Riedel welcomed Malaysian partners and customers to the new facility for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, hands-on technology demonstrations, and networking sessions, offering guests insight into the role of the Kuala Lumpur team and how it supports Riedel customers locally and globally.

    “As our solutions increasingly move into software and IT-based environments, the need for continuous, specialist support has become more critical than ever,” said Kamal. “Our team in Kuala Lumpur works across shifts, including weekends, to deliver global expertise for deploying, supporting, and maintaining customer applications in complex IT infrastructures.”

    Currently comprising 12 locally recruited software and IT engineers, the Kuala Lumpur team supports initial deployments of Riedel solutions — such as Virtual SmartPanel (VSP), STAGE software platform, and SAME Smart Audio & Mixing Engine — and will provide technical support for future software-focused products that require advanced IT knowledge. Over the coming months, team members will complete structured corporate and technical training as part of their onboarding journey.

    “The talent pool in Malaysia is exceptional, supported by strong investments in education and IT infrastructure,” said Craig Thompson, Executive Director of Customer Success at Riedel Communications. “This makes Kuala Lumpur an ideal location to support Riedel’s global move towards software and IT-based solutions, while strengthening our long-term presence and capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.”

  • Nightscaping Launches in Custom Residential and Commercial AV Channels with Ingenious LED Low Voltage Modular Outdoor Lighting Product Line and Custom Accessories, Representation by Top Sales Firms, Participation at Lightapalooza 2026

    Nightscaping Launches in Custom Residential and Commercial AV Channels with Ingenious LED Low Voltage Modular Outdoor Lighting Product Line and Custom Accessories, Representation by Top Sales Firms, Participation at Lightapalooza 2026

    Nightscaping has officially entered the residential and commercial AV channel with its Locklin Outdoor LED Lighting Series, a modular low-voltage outdoor lighting system designed for custom integrators. Originally introduced at CEDIA Expo 2025 and recognized by Residential Systems Magazine as a Company to Watch in 2026, the brand is now shipping products and expanding through top sales firm representation and participation at Lightapalooza 2026. The Locklin system simplifies outdoor lighting design and installation by using interchangeable modules, power bases, optics, and mounting options that allow over 1,400 configuration possibilities from a single platform.

    Built for performance and durability, the Locklin LED module offers adjustable wattage, selectable color temperatures, multiple beam spreads, and high color accuracy. The fixtures are IP68 and coastal rated, UL/ETL listed, and tested against U.S. Military standards for reliability. With a Lifetime Warranty on fixtures, a 10-year warranty on the LED module, and a patented lightning protection device for outdoor systems, Nightscaping positions itself as a scalable, service-friendly outdoor lighting solution for integrators serving high-end residential and commercial environments.

    Nightscaping®, first introduced at CEDIA Expo 2025, was recognized as an innovative brand and featured in Residential Systems Magazine’s Companies to Watch 2026. Expanding from the green and luxury estate markets into the residential and commercial AV channels, Nightscaping launches with its Locklin Outdoor LED Lighting Series and a wide range of custom products. Shipping now, and supported by strong sales, marketing, and training programs, the brand is represented by top sales firms and will participate in Lightapalooza 2026 with both an exhibit (booth #530) and dealer training session.

    The Locklin Series The foundation of the Nightscaping launch is the Locklin Series. Designed for lighting designers, integrators, and installation teams alike, Locklin is a logical, repeatable outdoor lighting system that removes guesswork from specification, installation, and long-term service. Built from four intuitive elements — application-based power bases, precision aiming knuckles, a single adjustable LED light module with interchangeable optics and glare-control modifiers — the Series enable hundreds of custom lighting configurations from a streamlined, modular platform. The result is faster installs, simplified inventory, and a smarter, more efficient approach to professional landscape lighting for custom integrators.

    Light Module At the heart of the system is the versatile Locklin LED module. This innovative light engine boasts built-in controls to fine-tune brightness (3W, 5W, 7W delivering 175, 300, 425 lumens), switch color temperatures (2700K or 3000K), and easily swap optics for 5 different beam spreads (7°, 15°, 36°, 60°, 120°). The module delivers high-fidelity light (CRI 93.4+, IES TM-30 Rf 94, Rg 99) for accurate natural rendering of foliage and architecture. Each fixture includes a honeycomb louver for glare control. (CRI = Color Rendering Index)

    Modular Application-Based Power Base, Knuckle, and Shroud Options Driving the Locklin LED module are an assortment of Locklin power bases. They include ABS and Trident stake mount bases and tree light, surface, gutter, and can light mount bases. All employ Locklin’s proprietary tool-free Twist Lock assembly system and a patent-pending Through-Power™ transmission mechanism that makes use of corrosion-resistant gold-plated connections for long-term durability and optimum performance. Shroud options include tree, bullet/directional spot, can/recessed, lip/hardscape/under cap, and wash lights; knuckle options include both fixed and adjustable.

    1,400 Different Lighting Configuration Possibilities Locklin provides 30 different light source options that combined with the power bases, shrouds and other options, allows for the creation of over 1,400 configurations from one fixture, simplifying ordering, inventory, and installation. The CI can choose from ready-made configurations tailored to a specific application, create their own, and even modify, fine-tune, and evolve lighting design without replacing the entire fixture – for example returning to the property and adding a riser pole to accommodate for plant growth, etc.

    Built to Last Locklin is IP68 and Coastal Rated to resist corrosion in extreme salt environments, UL/ETL listed to meet safety standards, and has been rigorously tested against 27 distinct US Military Environmental, Electrical, and Physical Standards, including flammability, thermal shock, and lifespan evaluations. The proprietary aerospace-grade gold-plated contacts deliver enduring, corrosion-resistant performance, maintaining optimal color and lumen levels over time. The fixture and its components carry a Lifetime Warranty; the LED module a 10-Year Warranty.

    Beauty by Day and Artistic Ambience by Night The Locklin components boast a discreet handcrafted dark, obsidian brass finish for enduring beauty. The Series is complemented by Nightscaping’s vast portfolio of customizable bollards (artistic pathway lights), bistro lights, mailboxes, audio bollards, transformers, and accessories, that together deliver creative, elegant solutions that enhance high-end residences or businesses.

    Nightscaping Lightning Protection Device Also available is Nightscaping’s patented Lightning Protection Device. The only of its kind, this is a Type 1 UL listed to UL1449 (80,000-volt rating) stake-mounted waterproof device designed for outdoor applications including but not limited to 12V systems like landscape lighting, irrigation, and outdoor audio.

    Locklin Sales Presentation Kit The innovation, functionality, and beauty of the Locklin components can be presented to homeowners from the Locklin Sales Presentation kit. A hard-shelled full-sized (16 x 24 x 7.5 inches) road-worthy suitcase that functions as a portable showroom, the kit is robustly equipped with the Locklin LED module, lens options, interchangeable Twist Lock power bases, knuckles, shrouds, stakes, risers, mounts and more. A built-in rechargeable battery powers the fixtures for demonstration.

    Drawing from Decades of Experience An homage to Nightscaping founder Bill Locklin, the Series draws from the brand’s vast experience in outdoor lighting (to date 67-years with over 3 million systems installed) and that of sister company Lighthouse Design Studio, a luxury estate national landscape and architectural design and installation firm that has amassed over thirty-five national awards from peer nominated, national outdoor lighting associations and organizations.

    As told by Lighthouse Executive Director and Principal Designer Tim Ryan, “The Locklin products receive most of their inspiration and direction from the lighting designers, professional installers and service teams that specify and work with multiple brands of products every day in the field. They know what works and what does not from a practical point of view. From amateur to novice, CI’s will find Locklin a very smart approach that along with the brand’s supportive sales, marketing, and training programs, will serve their businesses well.”

  • Granteq wins 2026 Inavation Award for GEMS School of Research and Innovation, Dubai, UAE

    Granteq wins 2026 Inavation Award for GEMS School of Research and Innovation, Dubai, UAE

    Granteq has won the 2026 Inavation Award in the Education category for its AV integration at GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) in Dubai. Announced during Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026 in Barcelona, the award recognizes Granteq’s work in building a future-ready, technology-driven campus designed to support research-led and collaborative learning environments.

    At SRI, Granteq deployed an integrated AV ecosystem that enables flexible classrooms, seamless content sharing, interactive learning spaces, and studio-grade environments. The project focused on making advanced technology intuitive and practical for educators and students, reinforcing the school’s vision of immersive, real-world learning experiences while positioning the UAE as a serious player in global AV innovation.

    Granteq has been named the winner in the Education category at the 2026 Inavation Awards for its work at GEMS School of Research and Innovation (SRI) in Dubai, UAE. The winners were announced in Barcelona during Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026.

    Organised by Inavate and staged alongside ISE, the Inavation Awards are widely regarded as one of the professional AV industry’s most respected programmes, spotlighting standout projects, people, and businesses on the global stage.

    GEMS SRI is a purpose-built, technology-rich campus created to support research-led learning. Conceived as a next-generation learning ecosystem, the school integrates advanced infrastructure to give students access to experimentation, creativity, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and real-world application of knowledge.

    Across the campus, Granteq delivered an integrated AV ecosystem designed to be powerful in capability while remaining practical and intuitive for educators and operational teams. The solution enables flexible teaching environments, seamless content sharing, interactive learning zones, and production-ready spaces that mirror professional studios and research labs.

    “Education projects demand a different standard of thinking because the people using the spaces every day are students and educators, not technicians,” said Girish Narayanan, Managing Director of Granteq. “This recognition reflects the trust GEMS placed in us, the strength of our vendor and partner ecosystem, and the discipline our teams brought to every stage of delivery. More than a trophy, it quietly puts the UAE on the global map for serious AV delivery.”

    “What makes this recognition meaningful for us is that it reinforces the learning experience we set out to create,” James Monaghan, Founding Principal and CEO of SRI. “The immersive spaces across SRI allow our students to move easily between collaboration, experimentation, and presentation, supported by technology that feels natural rather than complex. Granteq understood that our priority was always learning, and the technology had to serve that purpose.”

    This win builds on a longer journey for Granteq at the Inavation Awards, including being among the project finalists in four categories in 2021. In addition, Granteq’s Rishab Narayanan and Jatin Vasudeo featured in Inavate’s 40 Under 40, which spotlights the next generation of AV professionals.