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Solotech, Proud Audiovisual Provider of the 2024 Festival d’été de Québec

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The company provides 360-degree AV and a team of experts, including the largest panoramic LED screen in the festival’s history

Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is proud to have contributed to the 2024 edition of FEQ, a well-known festival showcasing musical excellence and live production innovation. 

For this edition, Solotech provided multiple audio, lighting, video, staging, and rigging solutions that delivered a memorable FEQ audience experience. As the festival recently unveiled its new panoramic LED screens at the main Bell Stage at the Plains of Abraham, Solotech is proud to highlight its role as the 360-audiovisual provider for multiple FEQ stages.

Elevating the Festival Experience

At the core of the festival’s visual presentation are the new main stage curved panoramic LED screens at main Bell Stage. These screens, over double the size of the previous ones, offer an enhanced visual experience with a total of over 41 million pixels surrounding the stage. Featuring a 4K screen behind the stage and two 6K screens on either side, they provide stunning clarity and detail for the performing artists. Covering a surface of 881 square meters, compared to last year’s 352 square meters, these screens were designed, prepared, and installed by Solotech in collaboration with Stageline’s screen support system.

Martin Carrier, President, Live Productions Division, Canada | Global Media and Entertainment Technologies at Solotech, mentions: ” We are excited to be a provider with FEQ again this year and to provide technologies and teams that are meeting their aspirations. Our team worked diligently to integrate these state-of-the-art screens, demonstrating our commitment to innovation and excellence in event production.”

Nicolas Racine, CEO of BLEUFEU, a partner of FEQ, also shared his thoughts: “For a long time, FEQ has been a pioneer festival. For the 2024 edition, we are pulling out all the stops to offer something unique in North America. This long-term project – the result of collaboration with several Quebec companies – illustrates our ability to push the limits of what is possible in the entertainment industry and once again strengthens our status as a major international festival.”

Technical Solutions

As a 360-provider, Solotech’s contributions extend beyond the new screens. The company’s involvement includes advanced audio systems, lighting setups, rigging solutions, and staging solutions across several of the festival’s stages. This year, Solotech deployed a daily video team of 35 employees for the installation of all Solotech video equipment for the festival. During the event, a team of nearly 30 Solotech employees per day will be on-site, ensuring seamless operation and management of all AV equipment.

Enhancing Artist Performances at Bell Stage

The new Bell Stage screens were designed to provide memorable visual experiences for audiences, enhancing the artists’ performances. With two major screens flanking the main stage and a third behind the artists, the setup ensures that every audience member has a great view, no matter where they are standing. Solotech’s audio, lighting, and staging solutions further elevate the quality of these performances.

Denys Deslauriers, Account Manager, Live Production, Solotech, emphasizes the impact that Solotech’s AV solutions provide: “Our goal was to deliver a seamless integration of video, audio, lighting, and more that enhances every performance. We’re proud to have played a role in making this year’s FEQ a success.” Artists benefit greatly from top-notch stage setups, and these screens enhance their performances beautifully,” Deslauriers explains. “We look forward to seeing how these innovations, along with our full production solutions, will enhance the festival experience for both performers and audiences.”

Looking Ahead

Solotech’s contributions to the 2024 FEQ highlight the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of live event production.

The successful integration of these advanced screens and other technical solutions is an example of how Solotech continues to lead the industry with innovative solutions and expertise.

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance our offerings and support our clients with the latest technology,” Carrier concludes. “This year’s FEQ is a significant milestone, and we look forward to many more years of groundbreaking collaborations.”

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Marina Di Pancrazio joins Solotech as Vice President, Business Development and Global Media and Entertainment Technologies

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Solotech, a world leader in audiovisual entertainment and technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of Marina Di Pancrazio as Vice President, Business Development and Global Media and Entertainment Technologies, starting May 21, 2024.

Marina Di Pancrazio is a Toronto-based media and entertainment leader with over 25 years of experience. She is an expert at developing successful business and sales strategies and has led several high-performance teams in sales partnerships and production. She has extensive experience working on both the creative and business side of the industry and is known for building new, profitable lines of businesses and optimizing existing ones.

“I have long admired Solotech and I’m excited to be joining this innovative world-class powerhouse,” says Marina. “Their commitment to excellence, quality, and service align brilliantly with my values, and I am honored to be a part of such a dynamic organization.”

Reporting to Martin Carrier, President, Live Productions Division, Canada, and Global Media and Entertainment Technologies, Marina will be leading the Greater Toronto Area’s business development operations and strategies across the division for relevant segments. Her goal is to leverage new opportunities to drive profitable growth with an important focus on establishing Solotech’s presence as a key player in the region.

“Marina is a strong addition to Solotech. I’m looking forward to working with her to continue driving growth in our division and to develop other sectors of activity,” says Martin Carrier. “Her solid experience and professionalism are tremendous assets that will greatly benefit our team.”

The entire Solotech team wishes her great success in her new role.

Contact: media@solotech.com

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Solotech Makes History with Record-Breaking LED Display Purchase

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Largest Single Batch LED Tile Acquisition Made as Part of Spectacular 2024 Schedule

Montreal, Canada, May 2, 2024 — Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is thrilled to announce a strategic collaboration with ROE Visual, with the purchase of over 5000 sq. meters of LED tiles, including 4,500 sq. meters of identical Carbon LED tiles, which is the largest single-batch of LED tiles ever recorded. This marks a monumental milestone for both companies: LED manufacturer, ROE Visual secures its most extensive ROE CB5 Mark II order to date, while Solotech becomes the industry’s leading LED video rental provider.  

“CB5 has become the industry standard for global touring over the last 5 years or so. With the addition of such a large quantity of ROE CB5 Mark II LED display to our already substantial offering, the team at Solotech will continue to deliver the most spectacular projects on the global stage”, stated Mickey Curbishley, Solotech President, Live Productions Division, USA, UK.  

With 4,500 sq. meters of identical Carbon LED tiles, a unique offering due to the quantity as well as the ability to offer true color consistency, Solotech not only significantly enlarges its equipment inventory for client touring needs, it secures a premium position in the market and can deliver greater visual entertainment services for global artists and indoor or outdoor events in stadiums, festivals, or other venues; including for the music industry, sports, corporate, and culture.    

Grace Kuo, Global Sales Director at ROE Visual, expressed excitement about the partnership, “We’ve enjoyed working closely together with Solotech, a company that shares our passion for innovation and commitment to client satisfaction. This is a testament to our mission of providing the best technology and service to customers.” 

Solotech is renowned for its 47-year expertise in AV and provides solutions for over 12,000 projects per year, including festivals and 40% of top worldwide music tours according to Pollstar. In addition to being ranked as one of the world’s top systems integrators, the company has expanded its new and used audiovisual equipment offerings in the ecommerce space. In live productions, among numerous awards and accolades, Solotech recently won Lighting Company of the Year for its work on Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour in 2024, having also received the award for Video Production Company of the Year for its work with The Weeknd in 2023 at the Parnelli Awards.  

Solotech is not slowing down after writing its name in history, focusing on growth and global expansion. It continues to push the boundaries of visual entertainment technology, delivering awe-inspiring experiences for audiences worldwide.  

Contact : media@solotech.com  

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Mickey Curbishley on the Geezers of Gear Podcast

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Mickey Curbishley, Solotech President, Live Productions Division, USA, UK, was a Guest on the Geezers of Gear Podcast.

He shared stories from the road, spoke about the spectacle of current global touring, and about a topic he is incredibly passionate about: sustainability in the live productions industry.

Mickey shared, “I think that we have a duty – there’s so much we are doing. I think one of the big points is that we’ve come so far, but we’ve got to keep going – we’ve got to keep working – we’ve got to work together.”

To listen click here: Podcast | Geezers Of Gear

Contact: media@solotech.com

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Solotech wins Lighting Company of the Year for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour at the 2023 Parnelli Awards

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Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, has received the award for Lighting Company of the Year for our work on Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour at The 2023 Parnelli Awards.

“What a great night for the Solotech family. Being recognized by our peers for all of the hard work that went into this record-breaking, electrifying tour during 2023 is an honor. This award goes out, not only to the hard working, passionate team at Solotech, but also to our partners: the designer, producer, production managers, and her whole management team that made this all possible”, said Mickey Curbishley, Solotech President, Live Productions Division, USA, UK.

“We have some of the most creative, supremely passionate staff in the business, and this recognition is a testament to the quality of our team and the collaborative spirit we share with our partners”, added Curbishley.

The Parnelli Awards, recognized as one of the live event industry’s highest honors, annually recognizes innovative companies and professionals for their influential contributions. Solotech congratulates all the 2023 nominees and winners for their impressive work in the live productions industry and this incredible achievement.

The award ceremony was held this past weekend in Anaheim, CA, coinciding with the 2024 NAMM Show.

Contact: media@solotech.com

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CDPQ becomes a shareholder of Solotech to accelerate the company’s international growth

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Montréal, November 29, 2023 – CDPQ today announced it acquired a minority stake in Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology. The goal of this transaction, which represents the largest investment in the company since 2013, is to support Solotech’s acquisition and organic growth strategy to expand its presence in various markets and create more value for its customers.

Solotech highlights

  • Founded in Montréal in 1977, Solotech has recognized experience in event and technology solutions, as well as in selling and integrating audiovisual systems.
  • The company has 2,000 employees in 20 strategic locations in North America, Europe and Asia.
  • Since 2013, the company has been held by a group of Québec-based shareholders—Claridge, Investissement Québec and Desjardins Capital—that CDPQ now joins.
  • 10 acquisitions completed since 2018.
  • Over 12,000 projects delivered annually.

 

“With this investment—the largest in the last decade for Solotech—CDPQ will support the company in its next growth stage. Aligned with CDPQ’s priorities, this means not only shifting activities into high gear, but also facilitating the company’s global expansion and promoting its audiovisual and technological know-how,” said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec at CDPQ.

“CDPQ’s commitment is a gauge of confidence in our business model, and their financial investment will allow us to seize new business opportunities as a global audiovisual and technology consolidator,” noted Martin Tremblay, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solotech.

“We enthusiastically welcome a new world-class partner like CDPQ. We firmly believe that we will benefit from an expansive additional network that will enhance our perspectives on the Board of Directors, notably in terms of growing Solotech,” added Pierre Boivin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Claridge and Chair of the Board of Directors of Solotech.

With a solid network of partners, Solotech offers audio, video, lighting, rigging, staging and control and collaboration systems, as well as eSports and webcasting technology. The company leverages its unrivalled know-how to create unique experiences around the world. It has made a name in various markets, including music, sports, business, transportation, culture and education. It also has an e‑commerce platform offering new and used audiovisual equipment.

From Las Vegas to London and Miami to Ottawa, Solotech’s experienced team has been involved in corporate events, nearly 280 festivals per year and musical tours, including by Taylor Swift, P!nk, Harry Styles, Adele and The Weeknd. A major share of its annual revenues is generated by complex and large-scale audiovisual installations, including Resorts World Las Vegas, Outernet and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, Disney World, Bell Centre, Caesars Palace, Hong Kong International Airport and many more.

Solotech ranks 5th among the top 50 system integrators in the world, and among global leaders in event solutions. In 2023, the company won the Parnelli Award for Video Production Company of the Year for its The Weeknd project. In 2022, it won the AV Events and Entertainment Project of the Year Award from AV Magazine for ABBA Voyage in the United Kingdom. In 2019, the company supported six of the top 10 tours in Billboard Magazine’s 2019 Year-End Touring Chart.

Martin Tremblay concludes: “We’re thrilled by the new possibilities for our teams that CDPQ’s arrival will provide to further promote their expertise and talent. Serving clients around the world is the genesis of our expansion, and even today it’s what motivates us to offer quality service and the best technology for their ambitious projects.”

About Solotech

Founded 45 years ago, Solotech is a world leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology with 20 strategic locations in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia. Solotech is the single source for audio, video, lighting, rigging, soft goods, control and collaboration solutions and services. The company is internationally recognized for its expertise in Live Productions and Systems Integration in various markets, namely music, sports, business, culture and education. Clients can also benefit from its Service Center, Online Store and virtual technology know-how. Solotech employs 2,000 professionals in its offices located in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Nashville, Miami, Orlando, Pensacola, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Frankfort, Calgary, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, Saguenay, Halifax, Macau and Hong Kong. Learn more at old.solotech.com.

About CDPQ

At CDPQ, we invest constructively to generate sustainable returns over the long term. As a global investment group managing funds for public pension and insurance plans, we work alongside our partners to build enterprises that drive performance and progress. We are active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private debt. As at June 30, 2023, CDPQ’s net assets totalled CAD 424 billion. For more information, visit cdpq.com, consult our LinkedIn or Instagram pages, or follow us on X.

CDPQ is a registered trademark owned by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec and licensed for use by its subsidiaries.

Solotech Launches Webcasting Solution LiveSphere

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Montréal, Québec, November 3, 2023 – Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is proud to announce the North American launch of LiveSphere, an innovative white-label webcasting solution.

LiveSphere offers a versatile platform that adapts to a wide range of scenarios. Whether it’s corporate events, government meetings, live entertainment, or hybrid experiences, LiveSphere opens new possibilities for connecting with a global audience of tens of thousands per event.

Martin Carrier, President, Live Productions Division, Canada | Global Media and Entertainment Technologies at Solotech, underscores the significance of this launch, “LiveSphere introduces a new dimension to event hosting for Solotech clients. It transcends geographic boundaries, making our clients’ events accessible to a worldwide audience while minimizing the ecological footprint.”

LiveSphere offers a customizable and secure platform that caters to each client’s unique needs, prioritizing security and reliability to ensure a seamless experience. One of the most compelling and innovative features of LiveSphere is its accessibility from any device, eliminating the need for desktop applications. The platform comes equipped with an administrative dashboard for managing events, chat moderating, and user analytics. It supports multiple audio tracks and video streams with closed captioning, as well as third-party integration for polling, voting, and ticket sales.

“User engagement through LiveSphere can boost conversions, foster customer loyalty, enhance brand visibility, and drive growth. It’s a holistic approach tailored to each client,” emphasizes Michel Poirier, Business Development Director at Solotech.

In addition to LiveSphere, Solotech offers a suite of additional services to enhance event experiences. From post-production to streaming show operation and production services, Solotech provides support to make events unforgettable.

LiveSphere’s first version was launched in 2020 with select clients to ensure the platform’s features and functionality maintained the company’s standard of excellence before the full launch. With over 45 years of experience in the AV industry, Solotech is well-positioned to deliver outstanding event experiences via LiveSphere.

Contact

media@old.solotech.com

Solotech announces new business office in Frankfurt, Germany

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Frankfurt, Germany, June 8, 2023 – Solotech, a global leader in AV entertainment and technology, has announced the opening of a new business office in Frankfurt, Germany.

Located at 60314 Frankfurt, Hanauer Landstrasse 172, Solotech shares the space with Studio 301, the renowned recording studio, formerly known as Abbey Road Institute.

“Providing our clients with a local approach is absolutely key for Solotech,” said Bryce Jewell, Managing Director – UK & Germany. “We are delighted to be opening this new office. Demand for high-quality, innovative events continues to grow across the continent and these premises will provide a platform for us to manage the future growth in the region. We have some ambitious plans, across both Live Productions as well as our Systems Integrations business, and our presence in Frankfurt will enable us to really start realizing these.”

Industry veteran, Holger Schader, has been Senior Consultant Concert Touring and Special Events at Solotech since 2019. In the same year, he secured a global tour with Rammstein, which saw Solotech deliver the audio and video solutions. This year his team, which includes fellow industry veteran, Frank Simon as Project Manager, have gone one better and are currently delivering the 2023 arena tour for German artist, Helene Fischer. This tour sees Solotech delivering the full 360⁰ solution, providing lighting, video, and audio as she performs at venues across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Holger will work alongside John Probyn, the Head of Business Development in Europe for Live Productions Division at Solotech. John comments, “The team in Germany is highly experienced, having delivered some of Europe’s most technically challenging and spectacular events. Holger epitomizes that standard.”

This German presence is part of Solotech’s ongoing expansion strategy. With roots in audio dating back 45 years, the company continues to supply the biggest festivals, tours and live events across the UK, Europe and beyond, with a client list that includes Isle of Wight Festival, Reading & Leeds Festival, Hyde Park BST Summer Series, Download, Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, Rammstein, Helene Fischer, and many more. In recent times, Solotech has expanded its UK offering into video, lighting and full 360⁰ services, including the internationally heralded ABBA Voyage project.

Solotech has also been expanding, not only in its long-time role as a powerhouse in live production, but also as a Top 5 AV global systems integrator across the Corporate, Worship, and Transportation sectors. Its strong presence in the UK systems installation market is illuminated by inclusion on top tier projects like Outernet London, Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium, Ascot Racecourse, among countless others. This is augmented by a strong sales department that sees Solotech as one of the leading suppliers of new and used professional audio, lighting, and video suppliers in the UK.

Martin Carrier joins Solotech as President of the Live Productions Division in Canada

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Martin Carrier joins Solotech as President of the Live Productions Division in Canada

Montreal, Quebec, March 30, 2023 – Martin Tremblay, President and CEO of Solotech, announced today the appointment of Martin Carrier as President of the Live Productions Division in Canada.

“I’m pleased to welcome an exceptional leader who will play a key role on our management team thanks to his extensive experience in the entertainment industry. Martin Carrier is a visionary who, along with his team, will drive the Live Productions business in Canada within a large-scale market,” said Martin Tremblay.

Martin Carrier has over 25 years’ experience in senior management roles in a variety of industries, including video games, television and film production, and technology. He joins Solotech from MELS Studios & Postproduction, where he served as President. Previously, he held executive positions at renowned companies such as Frima Studio, Warner Bros. Games and Ubisoft.

“I’m honoured to join a leading Canadian company in audiovisual and entertainment technology. I’m looking forward to taking the helm of a renowned team in Canada that rolls out over 5,000 live production projects each year,” says Martin Carrier.

Martin Carrier is known for his visionary leadership as well as his focus on business growth, technological innovation, and customer service excellence. Effective April 24, 2023, he will take leadership of overall activities related to tours, festivals and local live productions events in Canada. His mission will be to spearhead the Canadian operations and business development activities, and to ensure that Solotech remains an industry leader. Martin holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and an Executive MBA from McGill-HEC Montréal. He is also involved in the industry as a board member, notably as President of the Digital Alliance.

Martin Chouinard, who previously held this position, will continue with Solotech in a new strategic role of Chief Global Operations and Asset Officer.

This new appointment is in line with Solotech’s strategic plan for accelerated growth as it expands across Canada and around the world.

 

Contact

media@solotech.com

New UK headquarters to continue expansion in Europe

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Solotech announces new UK headquarters to continue its live productions and systems integration expansion in Europe

Birmingham, United Kingdom, January 26, 2023 – Solotech, a global leader in AV entertainment and technology, is delighted to announce the opening of a new UK headquarters. Located in Birmingham, the new modern facility will serve as a hub for audio, video and lighting rental stock and corporate offices, as well as a central location for its booming sales and systems integration activities. From this strategic location, the company is well positioned to efficiently serve the UK market and deliver its future projects in Europe. The install process is underway, and operations will begin in the upcoming months. Other Solotech locations in the UK continue to operate to serve client audiovisual needs.

Solotech strives to stay on top of the latest technologies in the marketplace, making it a preferred choice for high-profile clients. With roots in audio dating back 45 years, the company continues to supply the biggest festivals, tours and live events across the UK, Europe and beyond, with a client list that includes Isle of Wight Festival, Reading & Leeds Festival, Hyde Park BST Summer Series, Download, Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, Rammstein, and many more. In recent times,

Solotech has expanded its UK offering into video, lighting and full 360o services, including the internationally heralded ABBA Voyage project.

John Probyn, Head of Business Development in Europe for the Live Productions Division, Solotech, comments:

‘This new facility gives us an operational advantage by providing efficient workflows that help us deliver the high-quality projects that our customers have come to expect. This great workplace also ensures our staff have modern facilities with the highest health, safety and welfare standards.’

Solotech has also been expanding, not only in its long-time role as a powerhouse in live production, but also as a Top 5 AV global systems integrator across the Corporate, Worship, and Transportation sectors. Its strong presence in the UK systems installation market is illuminated by inclusion on top tier projects like Outernet London, Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium, Ascot Racecourse, among countless others. This is augmented by a strong sales department that sees Solotech as one of the leading suppliers of new and used professional audio, lighting and video suppliers in the UK.

Solotech UK Managing Director Bryce Jewell: ‘We’re delighted to have cut the ribbon on our new UK headquarters with our team this week. We have seen unprecedented growth in recent years, and this gives us the space and environment to keep us on that trajectory. Our team is very inspired for what’s ahead with our partners and clients.’

Always looking at ways to implement Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) best practices and to reduce its environmental footprint, Solotech chose this location to be the new UK headquarters because it is a Net Zero Carbon building. Construction has been completed to a high-quality sustainable specification, with a BREEAM Excellent accreditation and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) target rating of Band A*. This is in addition to a solar array on the roof which will helps to reduce power consumption.

Bryce Jewell adds: ‘The impressive facilities will allow us to provide an environment that will make us an employer of choice for our staff–our most precious resource, and to give our employees access to exceptional production standards and capabilities within Solotech to serve our clients.’