Distribution had previously been handled by Blackburn-based HSL. Simon Stuart, managing director of HSL, commented on the change: "Our core business is production, which has grown very rapidly over the past few years. With greater investment in people and equipment, and many more systems out on major shows and events than ever before, it has been difficult committing the resources to the distribution of Community that this diverse brand deserves. Our relationship with Community enabled us to discuss matters openly to find the best way forward for both parties."
Stuart continued: "I think the establishment of Community UK is the right decision for both of us. HSL will continue to be a major user and supplier of Community, without the distribution being a limitation on our resources for our core business. We wish them well and look forward to playing a strong part in Community's future success."
Community UK will be based in Glasgow and headed by Stuart Thomson, Community's EMEA market manager. On the change he said: "HSL has given us a really strong base on which to build, but establishing Community UK is still a major step and I am really pleased to be taking on the challenge. Although Community believe in independent distribution as a rule, a strong UK market is important to our growing European success and as a result Community were fully supportive of the investment."
He added: "Our thanks obviously go to Simon and the team at HSL for their past and future support and we look forward to giving our dealers and installers the very best products and service in the future."
Alan Lochhead, a familiar face in the UK pro audio industry since 1978, will continue to manage field sales. He will be supported by Stuart Cunningham, who joins from Linn. Cunningham will provide internal sales and service support for customers, many of who will already know him from his time at Tannoy. The new address and contact numbers for Community UK are: Community UK Limited, Unit 4, Davieland Court, Ibrox Business Park, Glasgow G51 2JR, Scotland. Telephone: 0141 440 5333. Fax: 0141 440 1119.
(Lee Baldock)
