In her Year in Review, Michaela Hirsch from Peerless-AV explains the importance of flexibility in a constantly changing business world, and how sustainability will continue to shape the ProAV industry.
As we sail full steam out of 2024 into a new year, we take a brief look back.
It’s certainly been a busy one, with a lot of challenges from an economic, political and humanitarian perspective. As a company, and as individuals, we must think innovatively to find solutions to new, complex issues, adapting to customer requirements in an increasingly interconnected world.
But at the same time, it’s been a positive year with a lot of growth and development in the AV industry. Businesses are adapting according to changing new technology trends and customer requirements. As a manufacturer of more 80 years experience, there have been many transitions, acquisitions and innovations. Even in my seven years’ service at Peerless-AV, I’ve seen such changes, and our position right now is perhaps at its most momentous.
From manufacturer to service provider
Direct-View LED has become more accessible over recent years, but the planning, design, installation and handling of this technology is still far more complex than LCD. The projects we are implementing now not only require more time and expert LED knowledge, but they also require precision engineered mount infrastructure and specialist tools to ensure meticulous attention is taken for a safe and successful installation.
Times are changing. We aren’t simply a partner delivering a product anymore, we are also a start-to-finish support and service provider collaborating closely on increasingly unique or challenging projects with OEMs, integrators, architects, specifiers and consultants.
MicroLED to watch in 2025
Product choice is more important and higher up the customer agenda than ever, which means our role is more important than ever. With the right support structure behind the latest curved concave/convex, wrap around, corner installations, customers can achieve that seamless, creative wow factor that delivers on their expectations without hidden surprises that be costly in the long run.
LED and MicroLED are naturally technologies to watch in 2025 and growth in this area will continue to increase. For LED buyers, it’s important to do proper research since it’s a competitive market with a consistent flow of new entrants to filter through. We have strong relationships with A-brand OEMs with tested, compatible products and years of joint project experience.
Sustainability as a key factor
Workspace technology is also one to watch. There’s been a lot of transformation and growth in this sector, heightened by the pandemic, and next year and beyond is sure to have a bigger impact with the prevalence of Generative AI within AV applications such as collaboration platforms.
Looking at outdoor AV, the demand for hight bright, weather resistant displays and kiosks continues to grow, simply because there’s more acceptance of digital signage and its potential to generate revenue and cut costs, while delivering targeted, informative, entertaining information. We’re seeing that quality and longevity of products in the field is at the top of the buying criteria.
Not to forget sustainability, a topic of the highest priority with performance benchmarks becoming commonplace in the AV industry. Manufacturers are implementing long-term environmental monitoring practises to reduce carbon footprint across all possible aspects of the business, or they’ll lose out on projects to competitors that can demonstrate a stronger commitment. Here, Peerless-AV sets a very good example with its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions by largely reduced air travel, increasingly use of trains, and a rethinking of its packaging strategy. We will continue to make improvements helping to leave a positive impact on the environment.
More diversity for ProAV
A personal concern is diversity within the AV industry. We want to expand the Avixa Women’s Council network further and encourage more women to take on leadership positions. Our goal is to make the industry more attractive to women, so they can have a stronger influence not only as professionals but also as decision-makers and innovators. A diverse and inclusive industry is not only fairer but also more successful.
What’s certain is that 2025 will be an interesting year for us all. The AV industry never disappoints in this regard. ISE is around the corner and I for one can’t wait to see the next big innovation that will impress and get tongues wagging. See you there, and make sure to stop by our booth!
