SSE Audio Group has announced the acquisition of BCS Audio Ltd, the rental and flightcase manufacturer based in Fareham near Southampton.

As part of the move, BCS Audio founder and MD Dave Shepherd joins the SSE Audio hire team, while continuing to run the BCS operation. ‘Joining SSE Audio Group, and at the same time its parent company, Solotech, is an incredibly positive development for us and our existing client base,’ Shepherd comments.

‘It means we can access the resources and expertise of the largest audio services company in the UK, who as part of Solotech are also a global player. We are planning to integrate our rental inventory with SSE, while making the transition as smooth and seamless as possible for our clients.’

SSE Audio Group has grown rapidly in recent years, offering pro audio services including rentals, sales and installations and the group has acquired other leading UK audio companies including Wigwam and Capital Sound. Last year, SSE Audio Group was acquired by the Canadian-based company Solotech, joining one of the world’s largest audiovisual and entertainment technology companies.

‘This latest acquisition of BCS Audio continues our policy of strengthening the UK group and what it offers by adding like-minded companies,’ says SSE Audio Group MD, John Penn. ‘Over the past 25 years Dave Shepherd has grown the BCS rental business substantially through considerable investment in rental stock of L Acoustics & d&b audiotechnik speaker systems. His diverse range of clients across the touring and events sector are a natural fit with us.

‘In addition, the BCS manufacturing business, which builds flightcases, goes from strength to strength and this is something we plan to develop further. Together, our manufacturing businesses can learn from each other and share resources. This will help us to better manage the last-minute deadlines that flight case clients demand.

‘I’d like to welcome the BCS staff to our operation. With the backing of our parent company Solotech we can all continue to deliver the exceptional standards of service that our clients have come to expect.’