FM transmitter manufacturer Elenos — an Italian-based company with a presence in Europe, North America and Asia — has acquired longtime U.S.-based radio equipment maker Broadcast Electronics. Terms were not reported in the announcement.
“This acquisition stands to provide both companies with an increased global presence, and furthers Elenos’ mission to build high-quality, reliable transmitters,” Elenos stated. “The transaction also provides Broadcast Engineering with access to Itelco analog and digital TV transmitter technology.”
Elenos owner Leonardo Busi, an engineer, started the firm in 1977, according to its website. Two years ago, it acquired Itelco and its analog and digital TV transmitter technology. The company line also includes the brands 22HBG and FM-world.
This is the latest ownership change for BE, which has seen several of them over the past decade or so. BE, headquartered in Quincy, Ill., was founded in 1959 in Silver Spring, Md., as a cart machine maker and began manufacturing transmitters in 1977. Other familiar BE brands include AudioVault, Marti and The Radio Experience. The accompanying photo was taken in Quincy.
Most recently, IIC Acquisitions has owned the company. It was headed by BE Vice President of RF Engineering Brian Lindemann, who joined BE in 2008 and later became part owner. IIC and Lindemann became sole owner in 2016, according to Radio World reporting then, acquiring the outstanding equity positions of the time including those owned by private equity firm First City Crestone.
Tom Beck has been president/CEO. The Elenos announcement did not describe their role, if any, in future.
Broadcast Electronics at the time had about 50 employees, according to Radio World reporting.
