ETC stands for Electronic Theatre Controls – and for trend-setting LED lighting systems. The American company has been presenting fair attractions with its booth(s) at Prolight + Sound for years. This year, ETC is also responsible for the trade-fair appearance of the moving lights and control panel professionals from High End Systems, which ETC acquired last year. Furthermore the company hosts the Hog Factor for the first time, we recently wrote about the award in our blog.You can find ETC in Hall 3.0, Booth E47, E51 and F51; High End Systems in Hall 4.0, Booth D59; European Marketing Manager Rosi Marx told us what you can see there.
1. How does ETC design its trade-fair appearance this year?
Rosi Marx:This year’s ETC stand is the same size as last year. By taking over the distribution of High End Systems we are now also responsible for the trade-fair appearance of High End Systems. This means that we have another 132 square meter stand in Hall 4.0, Stand D59.
2. One often hears: Today trade-fairs are no longer highly important when it comes to presenting new products, but they are all the more important for networking. Do you agree?
Rosi Marx: Of course, there are many other channels and possibilities to inform yourself about new releases. But this is not a disadvantage: the questions of fair visitors have accordingly changed. They have become much more detailed because many of them have already found out about the products on the Internet and would like to see them live at the trade-fair. Virtual media do not offer the possibility to touch something and to try things out hands-on. And yes, networks and the exchange of ideas with colleagues and partners are undoubtedly central points of a trade-fair.
3. The newly acquired company High End Systems will also be at Prolight + Sound – is High End Systems going to present its own concept at the trade-fair? Or is it integrated into the ETC philosophy?
Rosi Marx: The appearances of the two brands is very different, as their products also operate in different market segments. ETC is rather theatre centred and positioned in the area of fixed installations, while High End Systems offers products and solutions for live events. The two companies have a motivated team in common, which is looking forward to exchanging ideas with visitors and customers, the hospitality and: the soft carpet, which makes the long standing at trade fairs much more bearable.
4. 6th trade fair days are strenuous – but also eventful. What are you particularly looking forward to when you are spending your days at the fair in Frankfurt?
Rosi Marx:I am looking forward to meeting the many international and national customers and colleagues who have become friends over the years. Additionally I enjoy making many new contacts. And: the hourly shows at the High End booth. There’s a lot to see.