Echion Communication, a Germany-based retail signage and in-store radio specialist, has merged with Swiss digital signage company Screenfoodnet. Through this integration, Echion now has access to Screenfoodnet’s established digital signage software.
Effective September 1, 2024, the Lucerne-based digital signage specialist Screenfoodnet Digital Retail Services AG has become part of the Echion Mediagroup. As a result of the integration, Screenfoodnet has been rebranded as Echion Communication (Switzerland) AG.
Screenfoodnet is one of Switzerland’s oldest digital signage specialists. Initially, the company focused solely on its CMS software and was a regular exhibitor at ISE and other industry shows. Founder Pierre Farine later expanded the company into a national integrator, serving major Swiss retailers and luxury brands. With its integration into Echion, Screenfoodnet is now part of a larger retail signage and in-store radio group based in Southern Germany.
By renaming Screenfoodnet, Echion aims to make the integration clear to market participants. Additionally, the Swiss company will expand its offerings by leveraging the group’s resources. For Screenfoodnet, this could primarily mean entering the in-store radio market, where Echion is a leading player.
Echion strengthens presence in Switzerland
Screenfoodnet is contributing its own digital signage CMS platforms and Fast AXS, a software solution for unattended shopping, to the Echion Group. The integration will also enhance Echion’s presence in the Swiss market.
Florian König, CEO of Echion AG, commented: “I am very pleased about the integration of Echion Communication (Switzerland) AG into the Echion Mediagroup. All customers will benefit from even more innovative and comprehensive digital solution approaches.”
Pierre Farine remains on board
All existing contracts and terms and conditions will remain unchanged, and the ownership structure will stay the same. The management team will also remain intact, with Pierre Farine, the founder and owner of Screenfoodnet, continuing as CEO of Echion Communication (Switzerland).
The Kiel-based in-store radio and digital signage provider Radio P.O.S. plays a key role in the consolidation and integration of Screenfoodnet and Echion. As a leading integrator in the German market, Radio P.O.S. is the majority shareholder of Screenfoodnet and has a strong connection to Echion. Additionally, Echion and Radio P.O.S. have been linked for a long time through their joint in-store radio sales company, Magma Media. With the integration, Echion took over the majority share in Screenfoodnet from the Radio P.O.S. Group.
