It’s a profession where the stakes are high and results are immediate – either the event works perfectly or it doesn’t. That pressure and responsibility push us to be excellent every time.
Joaquín de Elías, Congress Rental
The AV Alliance is delighted to announce that NPi Audio Visual Solutions has become the latest Member in its global network of premium AV rental companies from Cleveland, Ohio, bringing the total number of locations covered in the US to 22 across 19 of the 50 states.
NPi Audio Visual Solutions, originally Northeast Projections Incorporated, was founded by Joe Thompson in 1992 in Cleveland, OH with the intention to form a company that held excellent customer service as the core principle of its operation For over 34 years, NPi Audio Visual Solutions has been recognized as a leader in the AV and event production industry.
With a passion for taking care of his customers, as well as a strong drive to identify and master the finest event technology solutions available, Joe Thompson positioned NPi AV as a leader in the AV industry, gaining an extensive roster of prime clients in the corporate, institutional and special events markets.
With a warehouse over 30,000 sqft, NPi AV’s headquarters house over 80 full-time employees across three company divisions. NPi’s Rental and Production inventory includes cutting-edge audio, video, lighting, and staging equipment from the finest manufacturers in the industry.
NPi Systems, their integration division, has completed projects for high-profile customers including Fortune 500 corporations, schools and universities, houses of worship and many others. In the meantime, the NPi Entertainment division offers club-style DJs, a wide variety of bands and musicians, dynamic MCs and other high-quality entertainers for high-end special event clients.
NPi Audio Visual Solutions is certified by the Small Business Administration as a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business.
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]]>The AV Alliance is pleased to announce that its global network of premium AV rental companies once again covers the State of Texas in the US after welcoming Vital Show Solutions as its new Member in Dallas, TX.
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Dallas – Fort Worth, Texas, Vital Show Solutions is a full-service AV production company supporting all kinds of events, from corporate conferences and hybrid events to unforgettable brand moments and large-scale live productions across the United States.
Vital Show Solutions supports its clients from the get-go with content development, creative design, storytelling, speech writing, speaker coaching, presentation design, and talent management. Their event production team brings it all together through event planning, staging and scenic design, lighting, video, LED displays, clear audio, broadcast, livestream, and full technical production support.
Since its inception, Vital Show Solutions has partnered with a wide range of organizations such as Topco, the American Trucking Associations, Athena Health, the Metals Service Center Institute, Leading Authorities, Inc. etc.
While their capabilities have expanded over the years, the company’s approach has stayed the same: taking care of people and doing whatever it takes to help clients and partners succeed by listening closely, understanding their goals, and helping bring their vision to life with the right mix of strategy, creativity, and technical expertise.
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]]>The AV Alliance is pleased to welcome Really AV to its global network of premium AV rental companies as its new Member representing Shanghai, China.
Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Shanghai, China, Really AV – part of Really Group – has established itself as a trusted provider of professional stage technology solutions, supporting some of the country’s largest and most prestigious live events. Renowned for its expertise in video, lighting, and audio, the company delivers integrated technical solutions for productions ranging from concerts and televised galas to luxury brand activations, esports competitions, automotive exhibitions, and government events.
Operating from its 20,000 sqm cultural technology park and 10,000 sqm warehouse facility in Shanghai’s Songjiang district, Really Group maintains an extensive inventory of industry-leading equipment. Backed by a team of more than 120 technical specialists and a nationwide network of 10 branch offices, the company delivers projects across China and internationally, with experience spanning Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, France, and Germany.
Beyond equipment rental, Really Group’s expertise extends to video equipment manufacturing, premium brand representation, technical consulting, and engineering system integration, enabling the company to provide complete, end-to-end production solutions tailored to the needs of each event.
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]]>We look back on the exciting projects, milestones, and company announcements that happened in our Members’ camps over the course of April and May!
In this first part we take you to the Americas – from Canada to Argentina and everything in between. Let’s dive in!
Riverview Systems Group | Milpitas, CA
Our Milpitas-based Member Riverview Systems Group is now the first and only AV company in Northern California to stock our Sponsor d&b audiotechnik‘s CCL Cardioid Loudspeaker System.
d&b audiotechnik unveiled the CCL System (Compact Cardioid Line Array) back in January 2025. The first product in its CL Series combines broadband directivity control with low-frequency cardioid performance in a passive design, and is the first compact line array to enable single-channel amplifier operation. Ideal for smaller venues and audiences closer to the stage, the system expands installation possibilities while making d&b’s premium line array technology accessible to more users.
Designed with versatility in mind, the CCL System is well suited for a wide range of applications, from corporate events and touring to festivals and larger productions. It can also serve as a side-fill or in-fill complement to d&b’s SL Series arrays. In fixed installations, the system shines in theatres, auditoriums and houses of worship, while its controlled directivity makes it particularly effective in acoustically challenging environments such as sports arenas and highly reverberant spaces.
MeyerPro | Seattle, WA
Congratulations to our Member company in Seattle, WA, MeyerPro Inc., for expanding its warehouse space by over 18,000 square feet to support its growing operations. The added space will not only house the company’s newly increased AV inventory – including a significant addition of Meyer Sound loudspeakers – but will also serve as a centralized hub to prepare, test, and ship equipment for shows across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
AV Concepts | Tempe, AZ
Our Tempe, AZ based Member AV Concepts was selected as the new in-house provider of the Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West in Mesa, Arizona. As part of the collaboration, AV Concepts has worked with the hotel to enhance its event capabilities, including the installation of a large-scale LED wall near the pool and food-and-beverage area. The custom technology solutions are designed to support a wide variety of corporate, association, and social gatherings.
The hotel, owned by HSL Properties and managed by Desert Hospitality, offers more than 20,000 square feet of meeting space spread across seven venues, including the Canyon Ballroom, which can host up to 1,250 guests.
Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the Sheraton Mesa team selected AV Concepts for its collaborative approach and ability to deliver flexible, budget-conscious event technology solutions. Congratulations to the AV Concepts team!
Read their press release here.
Stagevision LP | Mississauga & Vancouver, Canada
Our Canadian Member Stagevision recently provided AV support to an important 15th anniversary celebration, helping mark this major milestone for the Niagara Falls Convention Centre.
Since opening its doors in April 2011, the venue has hosted more than 1,600 events, welcomed close to two million attendees and generated an estimated $500 million in economic impact for the Niagara region. To commemorate the anniversary, the convention centre reflected on its achievements while looking ahead to the future, with a continued focus on service excellence, sustainability initiatives and strengthening partnerships across the region.
As the Niagara Falls Convention Centre’s in-house audiovisual partner, Stagevision is proud to play a role in the venue’s ongoing success and contribute not only to memorable events, but also to an organization that supports tourism, local businesses and the wider community. Over the past 15 years, the convention centre has established itself as one of Canada’s premier event destinations, and Stagevision is honoured to help deliver the technology and expertise that bring those experiences to life.
Our Mississauga – and Vancouver-based AV Alliance Member Stagevision LP was named the winner of Best Technical Production Support at the 2026 Canadian Event Awards, the most prestigious recognition in Canada’s event industry, for Pure Storage SKO 2025 (for its client Everpure).
For this event, Stagevision transformed a 40,000 sq ft ballroom at Walt Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin Resort into a sports broadcast center using a multi-tiered stage, dual 120-foot LED walls, 12 Christie 4K projectors mapping forced perspective onto custom set pieces, and 4 Barco E2 processors managing all content routing across the massive LED and projection surfaces. The audiovisual system supported a hybrid broadcast reaching three global regions. The AV design served the creative vision: every technical element reinforced the sports broadcast metaphor rather than simply displaying content.
WEBB | Salt Lake City, UT
Utah-based AV Alliance Member WEBB Production is a multi-year award winner at the Best of State Awards in Utah. Recognizing excellence in state businesses and individuals, the competition has awarded WEBB top honors in various event and service categories over the years.
In 2026 WEBB has been named the Best of State winner for Live Streaming, and they also finished first place for their work in the Convention and Meeting Services category.
No stragers to the Best of State Awards, in the past 14 years WEBB was selected as the Convention and Meeting Services winner – under the Hospitality, Travel, & Tourism division – 6 times. In the Live Streaming category – awarded under the Arts & Entertainment umbrella – they have won 3 times, while they took home the award for best Corporate Production Services for primary corporate event planning, staging, and execution five consecutive years, last in 2024.
Congratulations to the WEBB team!
Media Stage | Miami, FL and Puerto Rico
Our Miami-based Member Media Stage provided lighting and sound for the Racing Fan Fest in the Wynwood Arts District during the Miami Grand Prix weekend in May, where their team brought in AV support for a fan activation tent during race week.
The Atlassian Williams Racing Fan Zone was free to the public, featuring F1 show cars, the Williams STEM Education experience, and live Q&A sessions with drivers like Carlos Sainz.
Stage Right, Inc. | Chicago, IL
Our Chicago-based Member Stage Right, Inc. has just celebrated its 35th anniversary, marking more than three decades of delivering memorable corporate and association events. Since its founding in 1991, the company has adapted alongside an ever-changing industry, embracing new technologies, evolving event formats, and shifting audience expectations while maintaining a focus on meaningful live experiences.
Over the years, Stage Right has supported more than 6,700 meetings and events across 36 countries, 560 cities, and 625 venues. Behind those numbers lies a wealth of experience, from navigating last-minute changes to helping clients overcome complex production challenges. Its long-standing relationships have been a cornerstone of the company’s success. Many of their partnerships with event planners, producers, and industry collaborators span well over a decade, reflecting the trust and continuity that have helped Stage Right thrive.
Here’s to another 35 years, Stage Right!
Read more here.
Avera Audiovisual | Calgary & Montréal, Canada
Our AV Alliance MembersProshow (Calgary) and XPAV (Montréal), along with a third company, Bespoke Audio Visual, will officially became Avera Audiovisual on July 1, 2026 after a transitional period announced back in April.
Between May 3-6, CIM CONNECT 2026 welcomed nearly 7,500 professionals from across the global mining community to the Vancouver Convention Centre, of which Proshow is the in-house provider, for three days of discussions focused on the future of the industry, including sustainability, emerging technologies, and innovation.
Proshow and XPAV have long been partners in AV production, and Quebec-based CIM CONNECT’s move to British Columbia showcased Avera’s ability to deliver seamless support across regions. Building on a long-standing partnership with XPAV Expert’Ease in Eastern Canada and with support from Proshow Audiovisual in the West, the teams collaborated to provide integrated production services throughout the conference.
Together, they delivered full audio and video support for the main plenary and breakout spaces. The venue also underwent several transformations during the week, evolving from daytime presentations into a gala setting and later hosting a sponsored live music event.
SocialWest 2026 recently concluded its landmark 10th-anniversary conference, which took place from May 27–29, 2026, at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. As Canada’s largest digital marketing event, the conference gathered over 900 senior marketing professionals, content creators, and industry leaders in downtown Calgary.
From room flips and AV checks to catering, timing, and signage, it is the behind-the-scenes coordination that ensures everything runs smoothly on site. Every detail needs to align, often within tight turnaround windows, to keep the event experience seamless for attendees. On behalf of Avera, our local Member Proshow Audiovisual provided full AV support for the event.
ON Services | Atlanta, GA
In April, our Atlanta-based Member ON Services interviewed Dale Gustafson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Cobb Convention Center Atlanta and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, of which ON Services is a long-time audiovisual partner, about the major role AV plays in making an event successful.
The interview highlights the success factors of Cobb’s partnership with ON Services over the years, such as the trust that existed from the start, the AV partner’s in-depth knowledge of their customers, and most importantly, the strong, close relationship that has been forged between them.
Consorcio Events | Asunción, Paraguay
Our Paraguayan Member Consorcio Events recently supported the Meeting of the Latin American Ozone Officers Network, held at Paseo La Galería. The international gathering, faciliated by the UNEP OzonAction with sound and technical lighting at the La Rural exhibition center, as well as with a high-impact audiovisual display at the Parque Centenario Amphitheater with mapping, HD multi-camera coverage and 4K aerial shots.
RLA | Santiago, Chile
Our Chilean Member RLA LATAM has recently welcomed Tomás Montero as CHRO (Chief Human Resources Officer) of the company, which is the largest AV solutions provider in Latin America. Mr. Montero said: “I believe in strategic, close, and business-connected people management, capable of strengthening teams, developing people, and supporting the organization’s growth.” His vision aligns with RLA’s wishes to continue promote a close, strategic culture connected to the company’s regional vision.
INSPIRE Solutions | Cancún, Mexico
Our Cancún-based Member INSPIRE Solutions recently took part in the 18th Annual Business Card Exchange (BCE), organized by Global Incentive Meetings at the Paradisus Cancún in May. The event once again provided a valuable platform for reconnecting with industry partners, meeting new hosted buyers, and strengthening relationships across the meetings and incentive community.
From networking sessions and social events to a catamaran excursion, golf tournament, and closing dinner, the program offered numerous opportunities for collaboration and new business connections. For INSPIRE, the event also served as a chance to demonstrate how production, technology, and creative execution can help transform meetings and events into immersive, high-impact experiences.
Congress Rental | Bariloche, Argentina
Expo EFI, one of the leading conventions for economics, finance, and investment in South America, concluded its 13th edition with more than 8,000 attendees on 28-29 April. The event featured seven simultaneous stages, 120 sessions, 150 participating companies and organizations, and more than 300 speakers, including economists, government officials, analysts, journalists, and business leaders.
The conference, held at the Centro de Convenciones de Buenos Aires (CEC) explored current economic trends and future outlooks, with discussions covering financial markets, investment strategies, and the challenges shaping the global economy. Our Member company Congress Rental handled the comprehensive AV and production setup—including Blackmagic Ursa cameras and vMix broadcasting—for the event’s multi-room infrastructure.
The post The Americas – AV Alliance News Roundup | April-May 2026 appeared first on AV Alliance.
]]>From getting his university degree in law and pursuing a career as a paralegal, to stepping into his father’s legacy of managing the family business from one day to the next at the age of only 25, Caco – as he is affectionately called in our network – is now a father of two and CEO of Argentina’s largest AV company, serving as Member of the Board of the AV Alliance for the second term in a row.
In our new blog series we shine the spotlight onto the People of the AV Alliance, those formidable men and women who, professionally speaking, are much more used to working behind the scenes, creating unforgettable events or managing organizations and businesses that they or their families brought to life. In this interview we shine the spotlight on Joaquín de Elías, CEO of Congress Rental.
Joaquín, tell us a bit about yourself!
J: I am the CEO of Congress Rental Argentina and Uruguay, the largest company in our market for audiovisual solutions and simultaneous interpretation. I represent the third generation of leadership in the company, which was founded by my grandfather over 50 years ago, and later run by my father and uncle. I am married and the proud dad of two daughters. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family and friends – having big asados (*traditional Argentinian barbecue) is my passion. I’m a big fan of sports, especially football (Boca & Argentina). I’m also a golf enthusiast, as well as a surfer.
Joaquin de Elias, AV Alliance AGM 2025, Osaka
What brought you into the AV industry?
J: I grew up around the family business, but I didn’t formally join until 2015, when my father passed away. That moment changed everything for me. Although I had always admired the company from a distance, his loss made me realize how important it was to continue the legacy and help the team move forward. I stepped in to honor that history and to bring a new stage of growth to Congress Rental.
Carlos de Elías, Joaquín’s father and founder of Congress Rental – as well as the visionary behind creating the Congress Rental Network – lost his life in a tragic plane crash in March 2015. He was a respected and well-renowned AV industry pioneer, who played a key role in introducing state-of-the-art conference and simultaneous interpretation technology to international events. He brought Congress Rental into the AV Alliance just two years prior to his passing.
You originally came from a very different professional background. What made you appreciate the event industry?
J: It is a business where the stakes are high and results are immediate: either the event works perfectly or it doesn’t. That pressure and responsibility push us to be excellent every time. It also allowed me to continue a family legacy and take it into a new stage of regional expansion.
Left: Carlos de Elías; right: Joaquín de Elías with his father
What qualities make great future leaders in this industry in your opinion?
J: Technical curiosity, problem-solving mindset, and the ability to lead teams in stressful environments. Just like with every profession, empathy and communication skills are equally important to have as a leader.
What are the three most important things you have learned so far as a leader yourself?
J: Number one, people and teams are the true asset – technology alone isn’t enough. Secondly, flexibility and problem-solving under pressure are key. And finally, trust with clients and partners is earned through consistent excellence and must be nurtured every day.
What would your advice be to anyone considering a career in the AV industry?
J: This industry is not 9 to 5. It requires passion, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. But it’s incredibly rewarding because you see the impact of your work instantly. For anyone who is looking to kickstart their own AV company, I would say that it takes a lot of courage, financial discipline, and the willingness to work very hard at the beginning. It’s not an easy business to scale, but once you build trust, opportunities multiply.
What keeps you passionate about your work today?
J: Leading Congress Rental into new markets and developing innovative projects keeps me excited every day. Seeing our team grow, exploring new technologies, and shaping the next chapter of our 50-year family legacy motivates me to continue building a stronger regional presence and creating opportunities for the future.
Congress Rental
Congress Rental is a technology-driven company with over 50 years of extensive experience in the world of events and services, continuously seeking innovative solutions to meet the challenges faced by its clients. Over the years, the company has established itself as a trendsetter within the audiovisual industry, leaving its mark on some of the most important events in the region.
Driven by innovation, originality, and a passion for overcoming challenges, Congress Rental stands out through its forward-thinking approach and commitment to delivering practical, client-focused solutions. With nationwide coverage across Argentina and throughout the Mercosur region, the company is recognized as one of the leading providers in the market, offering clients the confidence of first-class equipment and premium-level service.
Congress Rental has been a Member of the AV Alliance since 2013.
Left: Joaquín with his uncle, Diego de Elías; right: with his wife, Rocío, and daughters Paloma and Macarena
Following Carlos’s passing, stepping up as a father figure and mentor was Diego de Elías, his brother and business partner, who took Joaquín under his wings and, along with the support of their tight-knit family and the Congress Rental team, helped him grow into the leader that he is today. Today, Diego is the CEO of Congress Rental Punto Baires and Joaquín’s Partner within the company.
Let’s talk a bit about your company and its history.
J: It was founded in 1975 in Buenos Aires by my grandfather. What started as a family business in interpretation equipment has become a regional leader in full audiovisual solutions. Our biggest strengths over the years have been our consistency, reliability, and being early adopters of new technology. That, and also maintaining a strong company culture across generations.
What do you think makes your team and your services unique and stand out from the rest?
J: Our ability to adapt under pressure and execute flawlessly in highly demanding, protocol-driven events. Also, our culture of combining family-driven values with international professionalism.
When you look back now, what were the most rewarding moments you have experienced with Congress Rental in the past decade?
J: Working on presidential summits, the G20 conference in Argentina back in 2018, Mercosur summits, and many international organizations’ events. These were projects where our team had to operate at the highest possible standard.
Center: Joaquín with the AV Alliance in front of the Congress Rental headquarters, Buenos Aires 2019
At our AV Alliance AGM 2025 you were elected as Board Member for the second time in a row. What do you consider your biggest responsibility in this position?
J: First and foremost: representing Latin America within the network. In addition, ensuring that emerging markets have a voice, and supporting the next generation of leaders.
Why is it important for you to be a part of this network?
J: Because it connects us with like-minded professionals around the world. It gives us access to knowledge, benchmarks, and partnerships that would be impossible alone.
What are the greatest benefits for you personally and business-wise?
J: Personally, the friendships and shared learnings have been priceless. When my father passed away and I stepped into the business, I had little idea of how to be a leader or even how the AV industry really worked. The members of the AV Alliance welcomed me without hesitation – my age or background never mattered. They gave me their time, guidance, and honest advice.
Business-wise, the network provides the opportunity to collaborate on projects with the highest international standards and to continuously raise the bar for our team.
What have been your highlights as an AV Alliance Member since you have joined Congress Rental and became involved with the network?
J: Hosting fellow members in Argentina, for sure – just like in 2019 during our Get Together in Buenos Aires. Learning from colleagues in very different markets, and recently being a Member of the Board, which allows me to help shape the future of the network.
Where do you see the AV Alliance heading in the next decade?
J: I see AV Alliance becoming the strongest reference globally for quality standards in event technology, with a bigger presence in underrepresented regions like Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
The next generation: Joaquin visiting a Congress Rental warehouse with daughter Macarena
What has been the biggest change in the AV industry since you started out eleven years ago, technology aside?
J: Without a doubt, the pandemic was the turning point. It just reaffirmed that personal, face-to-face relationships are essential in life and business. Live events became the clearest proof of how much people value real human connection. Far from replacing in-person gatherings, the pandemic highlighted their irreplaceable role in bringing people together and strengthening communities.
In your opinion, what are the most significant challenges this profession is facing at the moment?
J: Attracting and retaining young talent is increasingly challenging. We work long period of hours, weekends and holidays, not everyone is prepared for that. Also, margins are under pressure. Clients expect more for less, and we need to balance cost efficiency with maintaining high standards.
What do you think the way forward is?
J: Collaboration across companies and countries, investment in people, and a strong focus on creativity, innovation, and sustainability to design events that leave a positive impact.
What new technologies are you most excited about at the moment?
J: AI-driven tools for event management, as well as more immersive display technologies. Also, translation and captioning tools powered by AI, which will complement (but not replace!) human interpretation.
The de Elías family now: Joaquin (second from the left) with his mother, brothers, and sisters.
For any family-owned business, and especially for the second and third generation of the de Elías family, keeping the legacy alive is one of the driving factors and the greatest motivator to succeed.
What do you consider your most important legacy personally, and the most important legacy of your company to future generations in AV?
J: Personally, I want to be remembered for professionalizing and expanding the company into a regional holding while keeping family values intact. As for the company, proving that a family business can lead with global standards, nurture talent, and create meaningful connections through events for generations to come.
So, will we see the fourth de Elías generation one day carry forward this legacy at Congress Rental? That question remains to be answered for at least two more decades.
¡Muchas gracias, Caco!
Next time we sit down to chat with fellow Argentinian Board Member and General Manager of 2MG.NET, Laura Güimil.
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]]>Sunshine, ocean views, and the unmistakable energy of Rio de Janeiro set the stage as more than a hundred AV Alliance Members and Sponsors gathered on February 25–28 for our global network’s Annual General Meeting.
But this was not just another AGM. It marked a special milestone: 15 years of the AV Alliance. A moment to reflect on the journey of a network that has grown into one of the most respected global communities of independently owned AV production companies, originating from the vision of our founder, Simon Ackermann.
Over the course of four days, our Members and Sponsors exchanged ideas, shared experiences, explored new initiatives, and celebrated the spirit that has made the Alliance what it is today.
Artur Kovacs and Jose Augusto Martins, CEO of our local AV host, Maxi.
When in Rio de Janeiro, it is quite a challenge to host a two-day conference this size and stay away from the city’s – and arguably, one of the world’s – most famous stretch of sand. This is how our meeting took place at the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, a mid-century modern luxurious hotel practically at the junction of the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. As always, we set the tone of the AGM with our usual welcome dinner on February 25, however we did steer away from ballrooms and restaurants in favor of a casual night at the Fairmont’s lively oceanfront beach club, the Tropik.
The Annual General Meeting serves as the official evaluation of the previous year’s activities within the AV Alliance, as well as the presentation of the financial status and spendings of the organization, which is then formally approved by the Members in accordance with Swiss law. The two meeting days also include presentations by the AV Alliance, as well as updates from all the present Members and Sponsors on their current activities, and excellent networking opportunities for promoting business connections and personal relationships.
Introducing our new Members and locations (from left to right): Owners Steve and Gayle Meyer and CEO Doug Kamm (MeyerPro, Inc.), Artur Kovacs, Owners Chad Johnston, Rich Manu, Marvin Karawana, and Emma Johnston (Streamliner Productions).
The two-day conference began on February 26th with a packed agenda of presentations and networking opportunities. Our General Manager Artur Kovacs gave an overview of the current projects and initiatives of the AV Alliance, while Board Member Laura Güimil from 2MG.NET and Kevin Farrant from Novatech Creative Event Technology brought important updates regarding the progress of our AV Alliance Academy initiative, and David Woodcock from PSP AV presented a new and exciting mentoring initiative.
We were delighted to officially introduce two of our new AV Alliance Members who were present at the AGM: Owners Gayle and Steve Meyer and CEO Doug Kamm on behalf of MeyerPro in Seattle (WA), and Owners Chad and Emma Johnston, Rich Manu, and Marvin Karawana, who came all the way from New Zealand to represent the three locations of Streamliner Productions.
(from left to right) AV Alliance Board Member Martin Blanchard (XPAV Expert’ease) with AV Alliance Sponsors Maxime Duschinsky (Theatrixx Technologies), Richard Marples (Barco), Vikram Khosla (Unique Business Systems) and Jonas Stenvinkel (Elation Professional).
Our Board Members Martin Blanchard (XPAV Expert’ease) and Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental) led two fantastic panel discussions with our Sponsors, fostering insightful dialogue about industry trends, collaboration, and the evolving expectations of clients. These panel discussions were followed by our now customary Sponsor Networking Carousel, which gave our technology partners the opportunity for direct exchange with AV Alliance Members, allowing them to engage on a more personal level in smaller groups.
Finally, we closed the day off with a series of workshops to encourage open discussion about the challenges and opportunities the industry is facing. These workshops, led by our Board Members Joaquin de Elias, Chairman Peter Muller (Special Effects Ltd,), Martin Blanchard and Zaki Mustapa (Cantuman Wawasan), as well as Laura Güimil and our AV Alliance Academy team leader Kevin Farrant, explored topics such as family business dynamics, succession planning, quality management, and the AV Alliance’s own education initiatives.
(from left to right) AV Alliance Sponsors Andrew Ehler (IntelliEvent), Toni Martinez (AV-Drop), Martin Kuyper (Eurotruss) and Ryan Penny (d&b audiotechnik) with Board Member Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental)
The second meeting day, as usual, hosted the financial presentations of the AV Alliance, followed by the Board Election. We are delighted to share that Board Members Laura Güimil, Zaki Mustapa, and Peter Muller were all re-elected by the Members of the AV Alliance to continue their work on the Board, alongside Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental), Martin Blanchard (XPAV Expert’ease), Matt Emerson (AVFX/CEAVCO), and Simon Ackermann (Habegger AG). Peter Muller was also re-confirmed as our Chairman for the fourth consecutive term, ensuring continuity in leadership as the network moves into its next chapter.
Our program continued with our usual Leadership Meeting led by Board Member Martin Blanchard, which further explored strategic priorities and the role of leadership within the Alliance. Following this session, Members also shared a number of project showcases, demonstrating the creativity and technical excellence that define AV Alliance companies around the world. These presentations remain one of the most valuable elements of the AGM, allowing Members to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and celebrate the innovative work being delivered across the network.
Peter Muller (Special Effects Ltd.), Chairman of the AV Alliance
Chairman Peter Muller went on to host a lively panel discussion about succession, a topic that is becoming more important and more urgent for privately-owned – and especially family-owned – businesses. He talked to company Owners Steve DeVries (Showcore), Gayle Meyer (MeyerPro), Andrew Gardiner Jr. (Zamar Group), David Woodcock (PSP), Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental), Torben Pedersen (Nordic Rentals), and Martin Kuyper (Eurotruss) about challenges in owership and succession, identifying the next generation of leaders and managing continuity in leadership while maintaining growth.
This year’s meeting also coincided with celebrating our network’s 15th AGM. An anniversary is also a time to reflect, so we asked our Members to take a moment to revisit the AV Alliance’s origins, sharing memories of its founding vision and the milestones that have shaped its growth. The meeting concluded in true Brazilian style with laughter, conversations, and a few well-earned Caipirinhas to celebrate both the past and the exciting future .
(from left to right) Chairman Peter Muller chats to Owners Steve DeVries (Showcore), Gayle Meyer (MeyerPro), Andrew Gardiner Jr. (Zamar Group), David Woodcock (PSP), Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental), Torben Pedersen (Nordic Rentals), and Martin Kuyper (Eurotruss)
While the Annual General Meeting’s main focus is business and networking, we cannot forget about building relationships under more casual circumstances, so just like at all of our previous meetings, the AV Alliance wasted no time in exploring Rio de Janeiro’s culture: its vibrant atmosphere, the excellent restaurants – the Assador and Casa Camolese in particular – and shows, its famous sandy beaches, the nightlife, and of course its world-famous attractions. From incredible steak houses to a one-of-a-kind theatre production at The Roxy, from the Carnival to Christ the Redeemer, from football games to hair-raising hikes, the AV Alliance family once again spent an unforgettable time together.
A glimpse into Brazilian culture and heritage at The Roxy Dinner Show in Copacabana
We would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to our local hosts, Jose Augusto Martins (Maxi) and Dylmar Souza (Hoffmann) for being the most generous, dedicated hosts and making us feel at home throughout our visit, their excellent technical crews working behind the scenes to make everything work seamlessly at the hotel and creating a fantastic AV setup for the meeting.
We also thank our Members and Sponsors for making the long trip to Rio de Janeiro to spend these inspiring, unforgettable days together, for your dedication to the AV Alliance, and helping shape our vision for the next 15 years ahead and beyond.
Until we meet again at our Get Together in Rwanda in October 2026… muito obrigado a todos!
The AV Alliance, 2026
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]]>The AV Alliance is delighted to welcome MeyerPro, Inc from Seattle, WA in the USA as a new Member of its global network of premium AV rental companies. With this new addition, our Members now cover 22 locations in 19 of the 50 states, and 26 altogether in North America.
MeyerPro is a premier AV and broadcast solutions provider in Seattle, WA, with its headquarters in Portland, OR. Serving clients across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, MeyerPro specializes in delivering innovative technology, expert production services, and a people first approach that ensures excellence from planning through execution.
Founded 41 years ago as a family business, MeyerPro has more than doubled its revenue throughout the last five years and increased its workforce by 150 percent following the height of the pandemic. Although the live production sector was among the most disrupted during 2020, the company retained all staff through widespread event shutdowns, pivoting with innovative live streaming solutions to support its clients, including Nike and Microsoft. This focus on adaptability and service fueled steady growth while reinforcing MeyerPro’s reputation for reliability and excellence.
MeyerPro has an extensive inventory of state-of-the-art LED, video and audio equipment, and their portfolio includes full audiovisual services and equipment rental for broadcast and live events, project management, engineering and technical planning, warehousing, equipment sales and installation. That commitment to excellence is also reflected in the caliber of its clients. In addition to Nike and Microsoft, MeyerPro’s many standout partnerships include Boeing, the Doernbecher Freestyle event, Oand the Portland Winter Light Festival.
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]]>The best origin stories of any organization will always be intertwined with the people who made them a reality. This is why we cannot talk about the AV Alliance without also talking about Simon Ackermann, the founder of our association.
In our new blog series we shine the spotlight onto the People of the AV Alliance, those formidable men and women who, professionally speaking, are much more used to working behind the scenes, creating unforgettable events or managing organizations and businesses that they or their families brought to life.
Habegger AG
Simon Ackermann is not only the founder of the AV Alliance, but also of Habegger AG, an international service provider in live communication that covers multiple disciples: events, scenography, exhibitions, film production and event venues around the world. Headquartered in Regensdorf, Switzerland, Habegger’s journey as a service provider in audiovisual technology started in 1982, and has since grown into a leading provider in the event industry with four offices in Europe (including our Vienna-based Member, Habegger Austria) and delivering over 2,000 local and international projects a year. In October 2017, Simon Ackernann and Nico Ubenauf, CEO of our German Member satis&fy established Live Matters GmbH, bringing their businesses under the new holding company.
The AV Alliance, our global network of the leading event technology suppliers, was founded in 2010. Representing Habegger AG, Simon served as Chairman of the Board for nine years, before handing over the baton to our current Chairman, Peter Muller (Special Effects Ltd.) in April 2017 while remaining an active Member of the Board to this day, continuing to lend his vast experience and knowledge of the AV industry to help guide the AV Alliance on its journey.
In this interview we asked Simon – among many other things – about his vision behind bringing together leading event technology suppliers around the world, and the values he wished Members to represent from the very start.
What was your initial idea and vision behind creating the AV Alliance?
My vision was to build a global network that brings together the very best companies in the AV and event technology sector. I wanted to ensure that clients, wherever they are in the world, could rely on the same high standards of quality, expertise, and reliability, delivered by trusted local partners.
Did you have an example of a similar network in mind when you decided to form our association?
No, there wasn’t a direct example or template for what I wanted to create. The idea came from my own experiences in the industry and the realization that there was a real need for a collaborative, international network that put quality and trust first.
From where did you know the original Members of the AVA?
I knew many of the founding members for years through industry projects, events, and personal connections. That mutual trust and understanding were crucial in getting the Alliance off the ground.
From the early days, Simon was determined to find the best privately owned AV rental companies around the world. Many of the first Members of the AV Alliance are still part of our network, a testament to their commitment to Simon’s vision and our core values, as well as to their industry peers. Since 2010 we have grown exponentially, currently being represented by 95 Members globally, without compromising on the original purpose and the mission of the AV Alliance.
What are the most important values that you have wished for the AV Alliance to represent in the event industry?
Quality, reliability, and fairness were always at the core. I also wanted the Alliance to stand for transparency, trust, and a genuine willingness to work together as partners rather than competitors.
What was the gap in the market that you wanted to fill with the AV Alliance?
I saw a clear gap: clients needed access to top-tier AV services globally, but with the consistency and personal touch that only local experts can provide. There was no network that guaranteed the same high standards everywhere, so that’s the gap we set out to fill.
Simon Ackermann | Photo credit: Habegger AG
I wanted to ensure that clients, wherever they are in the world, could rely on the same high standards of quality, expertise, and reliability, delivered by trusted local partners.
Simon Ackermann
As the Founder and former Chairman, what were the biggest challenges that you had to face in the early years of the AV Alliance, uniting companies across different markets in different countries?
The biggest challenge was bringing together companies from different markets and cultures and uniting them around common standards and values. Building trust and a spirit of partnership among businesses that were sometimes competitors required a lot of openness, patience, and communication.
What are your favorite memories of those initial years?
My favorite memories are definitely the first meetings, where we turned an idea into a real network—and the friendships that developed from those early days. There was a real sense of excitement and shared purpose.
What are your thoughts on the evolution of the AV Alliance and what it has become over the years?
I’m incredibly proud of how the AV Alliance has grown. What started as a small group has become a global benchmark for quality and innovation in our industry, with more than 90 members worldwide.
Where do you see the association in the next decade?
I see the AV Alliance continuing to grow, expanding into new markets, embracing new technologies, and leading the way in sustainability and professional development within our industry.
The first AV Alliance meeting on June 9th, 2011. Photo credit: Mark Vella
If you could give one piece of advice to your past self on the brink of creating this global network, what would it be?
Be patient, stay open to new ideas, and focus on building strong relationships—because creating a global network takes time and trust.
Where do you see future potential for the AV Alliance to expand and strengthen its own position within the AV industry?
I see huge potential in further international expansion, adopting innovative technologies, and driving the industry forward with sustainable solutions and ongoing training and education.
Thank you, Simon!
Next time we sit down to chat with fellow Board Member and CEO of Congress Rental, Joaquin de Elias.
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]]>As long as the AV Alliance family finds good company, plenty of delicious food, and some adventure, it is already a recipe for a memorable Get Together. Iceland has given us all of this in abundance, and then some: our most recent event was not only our most attended Get Together, but also one our most thought-provoking business meetings to date. Let’s see what we were up to!
Iceland is famous for its dramatic natural landscapes, torn and shaped by volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls that make it feel almost otherworldly. It has long been known as the “Land of Fire and Ice” because of the striking contrast between its icy glaciers and geothermal activity. The country is also celebrated for its spectacular Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun in summer.
Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital, is known for its cluinary excellence, vibrant arts scene, modern design, and strong sense of community – and its infamously high prices, quite understandable for a country that must rely heavily on import. On the other hand, Iceland’s commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and eco-tourism has made it a global example of environmental consciousness. And of course, its Viking heritage and folklore of elves and hidden people (yes, they are real, as we have seen it for ourselves… or did we?) adds a touch of charming mysticism to it all.
The AV Alliance, October 2025
Twice a year, the AV Alliance family meets in person: once for our Annual General Meeting in the first few months of the year, and once for a more relaxed Get Together in the fall/winter. Every time, a different AV Alliance Member company hosts us in their home city somewhere around the globe. These events are all about connecting face-to-face, deepening relationships, and strengthening the bonds that make our global network so unique.
This event was in the works for a long time, since the AV Alliance AGM 2023 in Bangkok to be precise, and we were beyond excited to make it happen together with our Icelandic Member, Luxor. Finally, the stars aligned for us and the Get Together in Reykjavík took place on October 1-4 (perfectly timed for the Northern Lights season!).
CEO Karl Sigurðsson′s introduction of Luxor
On October 1st we hosted an exquisite welcome dinner at our hotel, the Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, where we also introduced some of our new AV Alliance Members – Hurricane, Consorcio Events, Melvi, and AUCOP – in person for the first time. Then, just like we did in Vancouver last year, instead of going straight to the meeting, we kicked off the Get Together with our social day on October 2nd.
There are plently of adventures to be had in Iceland, and we made sure to experience as much of it as possible within our limited time there. Part of our group headed to explore the ice tunnels of Langjökull, the second largest glacier in Iceland to the North of Reykjavík, and spent the day in, quite literally, the land of snow and ice.
The rest of the group, on the other hand, experienced the more fiery side of the country by touring the famous Golden Circle, a round trip of some of Iceland’s most famous attractions. After a visit to Þingvellir National Park (home to the world’s oldest parliament, the Althing, founded in 930 AD) and battling the elements between the Atlantic and Eurasian tectonic plates, part of the group enjoyed a dip in the Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest geothermal swimming pool dating back to 1891, while the other part headed to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall on the Hvítá River, which originates from the Langjökull glacier.
Into the Glacier adventure, photo credit: Zaki Mustapa
Enjoying a refreshing lunch at Vínstofa Friðheimar
Just ten minutes away is the Haukadalur geothermal area, which is home to a number of hot springs, mud pots, fumaroles, and geysers, including the Great Geysir and the active Strokkur, which we got to see erupt a handful of times. After a stop at the breathtaking Kerið, a 6,500-year old volcanic crater lake in the south, we ended the trip in Raufarhóshellir, where we walked the path of lava in one of Iceland’s longest and best-known lava tubes in Iceland, formed around 5,600 years ago.
We also had the pleasure to lunch at Friðheimar Tomato Farm, a truly special experience for anyone visiting Iceland. Friðheimar is a unique, sustainable family-run tomato farm and restaurant that operates year-round, offering a dining experience unlike any other in its greenhouse and wine bar. It is famous for its eco-friendly farming methods, harnessing geothermal energy to heat the greenhouses and produce tomatoes throughout the year, as well as its breeding and showing the special Icelandic horse breed. To crown the day, our whole group met up at Fjörukráin restaurant in the Viking Village near Reykjavík for a traditional viking feast after a long day spent in ice and rain, where we had the dubitable pleasure of tasting fermented shark, and even had one lucky lass and lad crowned honorary vikings during dinner.
Before descending into the lava tunnel of Raufarhólshellir
The AV Alliance Get Together place a strong emphasis on building not only business connections but also interpersonal relationships. This goal had already been met even before our event officially kicked off, as our AV Alliance Board convened for an intense two-day in-person meeting on September 30th and October 1st at the spectacular Harpa convention center to discuss the most important topics regarding the internal and external affairs of the AV Alliance. The actual meeting day of the Get Together, however, took place on Friday, October 3rd at the Iceland Parliament Hotel, where our AV support and staging was provided by Luxor, with the support of many of some of our esteemed sponsoring partners, such as Elation, d&b audiotechnik, and AV-Drop. For this meeting we were joined by 78 of our Members and Partners, which made it the largest AV Alliance Get Together to date.
Apart from exciting updates and news from our sponsoring partners d&b audiotechnik, Elation Lighting, AV-Drop, ROE Visual, Barco, IntelliEvent, Panasonic, Theatrixx Technologies, and Unique Business Systems, we also featured two panel discussions as an old/new feature of our meetings.
The first one tackled a topic that is set to transform audiovisual technology in the not-so-distant future: How AI Is Shaping the Industry, and How It Can Be Used as a Tool to Improve Business? Our panelists Zsolt Kassai (Special Effects Ltd.), Laura Güimil (2MG.NET), Martin Zirkel (satis&fy USA), and Dru Whitacre (Drape Kings / AV-Drop), masterfully led by Patrick Phaneuf (XPAV Expert’ease) discussed their experiences on how AI has changed the way they go about their everyday lives and how it is helping them in their jobs, both on a personal level and on a much larger scale, impacting the company’s business.
″How AI Is Shaping the Industry, and How It Can Be Used as a Tool to Improve Business?″ - Left to right: Patrick Phaneuf, Zsolt Kassai, Laura Güimil, Martin Zirkel, Dru Whitacre
The second panel discussion brought back a topic that is becoming more important and more urgent with each meeting, especially when it comes to privately, mostly family-owned businesses: Growth, Leadership and Succession. The panel was led by Matt Emerson (AVFX), whosold his family business CEAVCO to AVFX a few years ago . All of the panelists shared their own “origin stories” of how they had found themselves in the AV industry, and at the helm of their own companies.
Joaquin de Elias (Congress Rental), Peter Muller (Special Effects Ltd.), Martin Blanchard (XPAV Expert’ease), Zaki Mustapa (Cantuman Wawasan), and our Honorary Member and friend Munir Samji (former owner of Blitz Communications, once an AV Alliance Member) spoke with charming honesty about family tragedies, difficult learning curves in leadership, accepting their own shortcomings and turning them into advantages, as well as lessons to be passed on to the next generation, and ultimately plans for succession.
″Growth, Leadership, and Succession″ - Left to right: Matt Emerson, Joaquin de Elias, Peter Muller, Martin Blanchard, Zaki Mustapa, Munir Samji
In addition to the above, we heard the latest updates on the development of our network’s global training program, the AV Alliance Academy by project leader Dave John (ETP/LMG) and Laura Güimil (2MG.NET). We also had the pleasure of listening to some great presentations from Matt Hussack from Proshow Audiovisual, Zsolt Kassai from Special Effects Ltd, and Matt Emerson from AVFX, as part of the Showcase Forum, where AV Alliance members are given the opportunity to showcase their own products or services, innovative business ideas, and unique solutions they believe may be of interest and value to their peers within our global network.
As a closing to our meeting day, we had invited coach and mentor Rúna Magnúsdottir to speak about breaking unconscious biases in leadership in her interactive and inspiring keynote From Boxed-In to Breakthrough: Leadership for a New Era of Conscious Business.
Waving goodbye to the Get Together 2025 from the Blue Lagoon
There was only one thing left to do after this incredible few days: to end our Get Together with a relaxing and much-needed dip and one final gourmet lunch at the world-famous Blue Lagoon, before heading home (or on to further adventures). We wish to extend out deepest gratitude to our incredible host, Karl Sigurðsson for his generosity and dedication, and his whole technical team at Luxor for their outstanding AV support throughout our meeting, as well as our heartfelt thanks to Pétur Óli Gislason for being indispensable to us in briging this event to life.
After this epic trip to Iceland, the AV Alliance will be heading to a location that is quite the opposite extreme in every possible sense: our Annual General Meeting will take place in February 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and we will be hosted by our local Members MAXI and Hoffmann.
Takk fyrir allt, Ísland!
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]]>The AV Alliance is delighted to officially announce that Consorcio Events has joined our global network of premium AV rental companies, representing Asunción, Paraguay. With this new addition our Members now cover 16 locations across 11 countries in the LATAM region.
Founded in 2012, Consorcio Events is Paraguay’s leading provider of audiovisual and event technology solutions, known for transforming meetings, conferences, and celebrations into memorable, immersive experiences. Based in Luque, near Asunción, the company offers full-service AV production, hybrid event support, and creative staging across corporate, institutional, and entertainment sectors.
With over a decade of experience, Consorcio Events has built a reputation for precision, innovation, and client-focused service. Their multidisciplinary team combines technical expertise and creative vision to ensure every project runs seamlessly, from concept and design to live execution.
Their clients include CONMEBOL (South American Football Confederation), FIFA, the OAS (Organization of American States), Paraguayan retail giant Grupo A.J. Vierci, various medical and banking associations (including FELABAN), etc. Consorcio Events is also the in-house AV provider of several hotels in Paraguay, including the Gran Bourbon Hotel Asunción and the Sheraton Asunción.
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