Strand says that between now and the end of this year, certain dimming products presently manufactured in Scotland for the European market will be replaced by exciting new products made in Strand manufacturing sites, which are presently undergoing extensive modernization, in the US and elsewhere. The first of these new products, EC21, which features full-density sinewave dimming, will be launched at Showtech in Berlin, following its pre-launch adoption for the Toronto Opera, and the Dongguan Opera. More new dimming product launches are planned for PLASA time this year, say the company.
In order to best support Strand's growing European business, the new facility will include centralized project planning, customer services, sales and logistic support for customers in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Strand expects that the benefits to customers from these functions being under the same roof will be considerable. Detailed announcements will follow in due course.
Strand Lighting Group president Tim Burnham said: "Strand's business is increasing worldwide, with significant projects recently won by Strand Lighting Europe including the Moscow Stanislawski Theatre, Kuwait TV Studios, Kazan Opera, Republic of Tartarstan and Bayalsa State Theatre, Nigeria. Strand Lighting is focused on new product development and on improving its service levels wherever we operate. The consolidation of our UK facilities in 2005/6 will enable the company to continue that growth securely into the future."
(Lee Baldock)
