Essential Install May 2017 | Page 9

Essential Install | News Inside Lutron’s new experience centre First Lutron European Experience Centre Opens In London O U T D O O R Lutron Electronics has opened its first European experience centre in London. The 6,300-square-foot (585 m2) showroom and education space includes a mix of the company’s light and blind control solutions for commercial, hospitality and residential use such as its GRAFIK Eye, myRoom, Quantum and HomeWorks QS systems. Located in the heart of London, the centre also includes several meeting rooms and collaboration areas for system design and training. “Taking care of customers is Lutron’s first company principle,” commented senior vice president Ramin Merhganpour, noting that Europe is a strategic and growing market for the company. “In the US and Canada, Lutron Experience Centres provide our customers with both functional and personal resources that allow them easy access to Lutron products and technologies. In addition to serving the European market, the new Centre will also be an invaluable resource for our customers around the globe.” The Centre features state-of-the-art technologies designed to highlight the role of artificial and natural light control in creating atmosphere and fostering productivity in office environments. The Centre has windows on three sides with close to 100 blinds and curtains, most of which move throughout the day based on the time and the sun’s position, demonstrating the value of light harvesting and its role in energy efficiency in office environments. A live digital display shows off the Centre’s energy savings, including real-time variations as light levels are adjusted. Clients can also explore the company’s residential product offerings, like Palladiom keypads and thermostats, as well as an integrated hospitality guestroom and retail area. More information: Lutron +44 (0)207 7020657, www.lutron.com Hi-Fi Cinema is now distributing the Podspeakers brand to UK installers and retailers Hi-Fi Cinema Announced As Podspeakers UK Distributor Hi-Fi Cinema has been awarded the UK distribution rights for Danish loudspeaker manufacturer, Podspeakers. Based in Aldermaston, Berkshire, HiFi Cinema is an installer, retailer and since 2011, a distributor. “Having successfully distributed Podspeakers under the Scandyna brand, we expect to make a big impact in a short space of time in the UK,” said Alan Gornall from Hi-Fi Cinema. “The new Podspeakers have vastly improved build and sound quality, featuring updated drive units and cabinets. Demand is high for this iconic design and we are very excited to be working with this innovative brand.” Podspeakers was acquired by EET Group in 2016. In the short time since its acquisition, EET Group has developed a new product range, introducing technical improvements by modernising production and refining components. “Hi-Fi Cinema is the perfect distributor for Podspeakers in the UK,” commented Brian Larson from EET. “Its past knowledge of the brand combined with its insight of the UK market is ideal to hit the ground running. We are excited to work with them and look forward to seeing the new improved Podspeakers back in retailers throughout the UK.” More information: Hi-Fi Cinema +44 (0)118 982 0402, www.hificinema.co.uk May 2017 | 7