The IBC show in Amsterdam is approaching. Between now and then Radio World will conduct several short Q&As with manufacturers about their plans and offerings, to help you get the most out of the big international trade show. Gary Luhrman is sales and marketing manager for Inovonics.
Gary Luhrman
Radio World: How has business been for the company since last year’s IBC Show?
Gary Luhrman: Last year was a very good year and it ended strong. Inovonics launched five new products including our new INOmini DAB+ Monitor-Receivers which have started to find a market in Europe. Since the IBC last year we have been seeing an increased interest in these and other products.
RW: What are you hearing from your customers about their business outlook this year?
Luhrman: Overall, there is some caution in the air, but it really depends on the market and we are encountering lots of interesting opportunities. I think DAB+ is becoming more prevalent in Europe so there are opportunities there and IP connectivity for remote monitoring and control. Most of our products now include remote access and control via a web interface. Radio engineers can even listen remotely via a live stream.
RW: How are your European and other international operations and efforts faring?
Luhrman: We have made a lot of effort to improve our coverage in international markets by increasing our presence through trade shows, working with our dealers and finding new dealers. These efforts are paying off.
RW: Is the IBC Show a good investment?
Luhrman: Yes, I think it is a good investment. It is one of the most important broadcasting shows in the world and it is important for Inovonics to be here.
RW: What new goodies will your company be showing?
Luhrman: We have our DAB+ Monitor Receivers, the new Novia family of audio processors, our popular Aaron FM Rebroadcast Receivers, an Internet Radio Monitor, and a number of our INOmini products.
RW: Why should attendees visit your booth?
Luhrman: Inovonics has a reputation in the radio broadcast industry for innovation and great value. If you are a dealer looking for a great brand, come visit Inovonics at stand 8.C95.
RW: Are there any products that sell particularly well in Europe that don’t in the U.S.?
Luhmran: The new 662 DAB+ SiteStreamer and the 660 DAB+ Monitor/Receiver are products that are doing well and don´t really have a place in the U.S. market.
RW: You’re a show veteran, what’s your favorite thing about the IBC show?
Luhrman: Seeing industry colleagues again, making new contacts, and enjoying Amsterdam, one of my favorite cities in Europe.
RW: Social media is the new marketing frontier these days. Is it affecting the way your company does marketing/business?
Luhrman: It is increasingly important to use social media such as Twitter and Facebook to engage broadcasters around the world. We are still on a learning curve and getting better at it. This year we have been especially focused on launching our new website at www.inovonicsbroadcast.com.
