"Renkus-Heinz is in an excellent position to ride out the current economic challenges," Heinz said. "We still have a growing business, and as we're not burdened by debt, or by satisfying the stock market, we can focus on our business and those of our dealers and partners."
He added, "In product development terms, in the past three years we've created market leading technologies that, as well as generating strong sales to date, have further huge potential. ICONYX R is the most advanced solution available today for architectural and acoustical problems. IC Live brings new technology to the challenges of live events. Of course, we must remain cautious. We've planned for a difficult year, but we're ready to capitalise on growth opportunities as they emerge."
The day-long schedule was devised to bring Renkus-Heinz world-wide sales partners a close look at how the company's product development and sales channel support programmes will grow in 2009. Vice-president of operations Rik Kirby and national sales manager David Rahn, along with export sales manager Karl-Gustaf Kahlau and vice president of international sales Karl Brunvoll, reviewed 2008's sales achievements in detail.
Attendees were briefed on new technologies and products including EASERA SysTune live sound measurement software, ICONYX R Digitally Steerable Array Systems, IC Live Digitally Steerable Event Systems and the VLX3 line array by senior vice president Ralph Heinz, with assistance from applications engineer Jonas Domkus. After lunch, a series of hands-on workshops prepared attendees to effectively demonstrate the new products.
The factory event concluded with a presentation on Renkus-Heinz promotional plans by marketing manager Margie Ulm, followed by the presentation of US sales awards, including Rep of the Year honours, which were taken home by Audio Video Associates of St. Louis Missouri. Renkus-Heinz will present its international sales awards during ProLight&Sound.
"This was a very successful event, and a strong start to the New Year," said Karl Brunvoll. "We had good attendance from every continent, and the feedback I received in meetings during NAMM was enthusiastically positive."
(Jim Evans)