Why we decided to specialise in retail AV
When you look at the audio visual companies out there, the majority of them are fairly large in size and covering a variety of both sectors and events. I, myself, have worked in AV companies like this, across events, exhibitions, conferences and more. However when I started VAST I knew I wanted to specialise in AV for the retail sector.
I’d always enjoyed the retail side, working with recognised brands and bringing their visions to life but I also knew that there was huge benefit for our clients in choosing to specialise in AV supply and production for the retail sector.
This specialism allows me to bring a few unique aspects to the retail clients and agencies we work with:
1. Knowledge of retail sites and stores
As a specialist for retail brands we often work across the same retail sites and stores which means our team has innate knowledge of the sites, their teams, any specific requirements and how best to manage a retail install. We regularly work across venues such as Selfridges, Harrods, Westfield London, Westfield Stratford, Bluewater, Trafford Centre and other key retail venues across the UK.
This is invaluable in the specialist support we can offer to our clients as they don’t have to initiate us into the sites, we’ve already worked there many times and know exactly how best to approach the installation.
2. A focus on longer-term AV hire
Most large AV companies prioritise getting short-term hires on projects or events that last a few days. The more times a piece of kit is rented out, the more money these types of companies are able to make. This lends itself well to events such as exhibitions and conferences, where the kit is often on hire for a few days, or a week at most.
However this can mean that when that same AV company is asked to work with a retail brand on a longer hire, say a few weeks or even a few months, they can be reluctant to support that project or unable to do it for a competitive price.
Specialising in retail means we have built our fleet and rental model around this concept of longer-term hires. This allows us to support our retail clients without worrying about trying to get the kit back out and onto the next project.
A recent investment we made in high-spec media players
This means owning high-res LED, multiple high-quality commercial screens, top-spec media players, iPads and so on within our fleet. This allows us to work across multiple retail sites simultaneously, and cater to longer term hires. Even during busy periods like Christmas where there are multiple retail activations happening at once, often spanning periods greater than a few weeks or even months.
3. Personal service
As a specialist AV company we’re also able to provide a more personal service and support structure than many of the larger companies out there. This is something you’ll really recognise if you’ve ever been passed between multiple account managers, or are struggling to get the support you need on an upcoming project!
Focusing on one sector means that we’re on-hand to answer client questions and really work with them on the details of a project, which often makes all of the difference.
4. Innovation of technology and new ideas
A recent iPad app we created for long-time client Parfums Christian Dior
One of the reasons I’ve always felt drawn to support the retail sector is that retail brands often have an interest in new technology ideas and ways of promoting their brands within physical shopfronts or stores.
At VAST we’re always looking to innovate, whether that’s with the latest LED, an interactive custom-app or motion sensor technology. Retail brands are usually open to exploring new technology, in order to stand out in the market, and specialising in this area allows us to meet them at the forefront.
If you’re a retail brand, or an agency that works with brands in the retail space, we’d love to discuss how VAST can support you on your next campaign. Get in touch to find out more.