IBC2019 is almost here. 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 annual trade show. Todor Ivanov is CEO of DEVA Broadcast.
Radio World: How has business been for the company since IBC2018?
Todor Ivanov: Business has been really good. We have been working on multiple projects, developing new products and perfecting old ones, continuing successful business partnerships and establishing promising new contacts.
By far the most significant development is that we are currently in the process of setting up a new, high-tech manufacturing facility, due to be put into operation in 2020. We are really excited because it’s a massive project — the entire facility spans about 4000 square meters. It is also quite demanding, with so many things to consider and bring to fruition, but it’s also quite rewarding. This facility is sure to bring about great new opportunities and contribute toward an even smoother, slicker and more sophisticated manufacturing process, so we can deliver even higher quality solutions to our clients. At the moment, I am giving this project my full attention and pouring all my efforts into ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
Apart from that, sales have soared and our business keeps expanding to new territories and customers. Our commitment to quality is what drives this company and we keep searching for improvement.
We have also had the privilege of being a part of every important industry exhibition. It has been a busy agenda but our local dealers have helped us make the most of every event. We are happy to note that our products are well received regardless of the location, and it is our aim to continue to provide the best to our customers.
Radio World: What are you hearing from your customers about their business outlook this year? In what areas should we expect growth or the most interesting projects?
Ivanov: It is not easy to give a definitive answer here. What matters the most is that radio in general is on the rise, which gives us a great platform to build on. We know that trends vary depending on the local markets so we try to branch out in terms of the products we provide, rather than channeling our efforts into a specific area. Our product catalog is quite rich and that is how we ensure that no matter where a client is, they can get quality merchandise.
[IBC Sneak Peek: DEVA Broadcast Brings DB4005 to IBC]
Radio World: Stepping away from your particular segment, what is your feeling for the overall health of the radio industry?
Ivanov: It is developing fast and always introducing new technology. It is also quite competitive, which can only add to the motivation of companies who ply their trade in this field. It is very important that radio continues to be a part of people’s lives — it does not feel obsolete or forgotten. On the contrary, it is going strong and this encourages us to keep improving.
Radio World: You’ve been active in the radio monitoring, encoding and processing gear for 22 years. What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing users in this segment right now?
Ivanov: First of all, being in this market for so long is a challenge in itself, but it is definitely one that we relish. Staying in any business and establishing a well-reputed and respected name is not easy. We have faced a series of difficulties over the years but we now know that having a team of experienced and dedicated professionals is the key to making it work. We have a great group of engineers that make cutting-edge technology seem simple — and they are essential to the success of our company.
Radio World: What new goodies will your company be showing? Why should attendees visit your booth?
Ivanov: Taking the time to visit us at booth 8.D79 in hall 8 will definitely be worth it because our product display will once again impress attendees. We will bring to the expo both new releases and gear that has been part of our product range for a long time. The highlight will probably be our upcoming DB4005 model — a third-generation digital FM Radio modulation analyzer and receiver with an MPX input. I don’t want to give you too many details now — let’s leave that for the show. Suffice it to say that we will have the right product for every client, so be sure to drop by!
Radio World: What do you anticipate will be the most significant technology trend at IBC2019?
Ivanov: Each year brings great technological innovations in our field and I am certain that every manufacturer will bring to the expo their best and most advanced products, which is great for our industry. DEVA Broadcast will also use this important venue to showcase some superb solutions. You don’t want to miss this!
Radio World: How do your international sales and marketing efforts differ from your U.S. efforts?
Ivanov: It is true that every market has its own peculiarities and being aware of those is an important part of what we do. However, there is a common denominator to our strategy, no matter which part of the world is concerned — we have to be able to recommend the right product and also offer competent and efficient assistance. This, coupled with the high quality equipment we provide, is central to our sales efforts for any part of the world.
Radio World Will you be attending any sessions or looking forward to any events?
Ivanov: My guess is I will be quite busy on our own booth displaying our product range, as I want to personally ensure that clients receive all the information and demonstrations they need. However, the IBC always offers a great program and it would be wonderful if I could manage to make time for some of it.
Radio World: You’re a show veteran, how has the show changed since your first visit?
Ivanov: It has evolved spectacularly — it feels like every year the show is on a grander scale. It is superbly organized and plays host to a wealth of events, panels and workshops, a great number of exhibitors and an ever-growing number of attendees. It takes great professionalism and enthusiasm to set up such a show and the result is impressive. It really is one of the biggest exhibitions in our field.
Radio World: What’s your favorite thing about this show?
Ivanov: The fact that it showcases the best technology and makes it available for such a large number of people to evaluate. Another important aspect of it is that it gives us the opportunity to discuss products with our customers and get their feedback. The IBC is a huge event and we are really thrilled to participate.
