Solotech named one of Montréal’s Top Employers for 2024 Leave a reply Montreal, Quebec, February 28, 2024 – Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is proud to announce its recognition as one of Montréal’s Top Employers for 2024 for the second year in a row. This prestigious acknowledgment reflects Solotech’s ongoing commitment to providing an exceptional workplace and supporting the professional growth and wellbeing of its employees. Claudine Ricard, Solotech’s Chief Human Resources Officer, expressed heartfelt pride in the company’s achievement: “We are thrilled to be recognized as one of Montréal’s Top Employers for 2024 again this year. This award reaffirms our unwavering commitment to create an environment where our employees can thrive both professionally and personally.” Solotech’s success is rooted in the dedication of passionate teams and a positive workplace built on collaboration and innovation. Solotech’s commitment to its employees involved is reflected in an 80% engagement score and unique perks, including ‘Solocial’ events, a jam room, ticket draws, a well-being tour, and more. Ricard notes: “We feel our employees’ passion for learning new things. Our Solotech Academy offers a dynamic learning environment for personal and professional growth. This award is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining a workplace where innovation and excellence flourish.” With over 2,000 employees across 20 locations worldwide who deliver over 10,000 projects annually, Solotech continues to grow successfully and is steadfast in its commitment to these values, ensuring that innovation, collaboration, and a positive workplace culture remain front and centre. Contact: media@solotech.com
A History with Newcastle Theatre Royal Leave a reply Continuing a long-standing relationship, Solotech has completed the latest audio upgrades at Newcastle Theatre Royal including a DiGiCo Quantum 225 digital console. Before Christmas we caught up with Stuart Middleton, Sound #1 at the Theatre Royal Newcastle. After starting out in TV, Stuart joined the theatre ‘by mistake’ twenty-four years ago. Since then, he’s loved every minute and most recently ran sound on the annual pantomime, Pinocchio, an amazing show with West End production values. The audio is a huge part of this and in his near quarter of a century in the theatre Stuart has been a key driver in how the system has evolved. In this video he breaks down how Solotech have worked with him over the last sixteen years, upgrading the PA while at the same time ensuring that the architecture and decor of the beautiful Victorian building has been sensitively retained.
Solotech Ensuring Safety at CERN Leave a reply Something a little different for our installation teams recently as Solotech, in partnership with Curload Consultants, started work 80m below ground at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) on the Swiss/French border. As long-term partners to CERN, Solotech has been tasked with providing a comprehensive design study to deliver Voice Alarm cover for the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The initial focus has been to test out loudspeaker types, models and spacings along the 27km LHC main tunnel. Project Manager, Ben Green, can be seen putting his back into two road cases of speakers, tools and testing equipment. Included in the survey is the 10+ storey escape stairs and a range of noisy service areas. The CERN site is extremely complex and spread out over a wide area, with a room count over 1400, over 8 main access sites, and 4 very large experiment halls. Solotech Business Development Manager, Paul Malpas, is leading the electroacoustic design services, bringing 30 years experience of developing strategies for critical speech amplification in extreme acoustic environments. The Solotech models have been developed in the latest EASE 5, using AURA 4 as an essential tool for acoustic propagation in tunnels. Sarah Radcliffe, Director of Curload Consultants, first brought the opportunity to Solotech and was pivotal in securing the framework appointment. Sarah is very much ‘hands on’ with the process and is pictured preparing and setting out the speaker candidates for experiments and demonstrations to safety strategists at CERN.
Meet Our Team: Fanny-Elena Lemyre Leave a reply Solotech showcases the talent that underpins its unmatched expertise. We spoke to Fanny-Elena Lemyre, Technician, Wireless microphones In this episode of Meet Our Team, we introduce you to a member of Solotech’s exceptional team: skilled wireless microphone technician, Fanny-Elena Lemyre. Fanny-Elena shares the fascinating journey that led her to Solotech. She discusses the intricacies of her role, shedding light on the aspects of being a wireless microphone technician and what she finds most rewarding about her work at Solotech. To add a touch of humor to the conversation, Fanny-Elena also shares her funniest work anecdote at the warehouse. Watch here:
Passion at Work Behind-the-Scenes Leave a reply The Globe and Mail profiled Solotech as a winner of the 22nd Annual Canada’s Top Employers for Young People Competition. The article focuses on the company’s workplace culture and outlines the dedication, teamwork and job satisfaction that drive the members of its behind-the-scenes teams. Describing Solotech’s appeal as an employer, Claudine Ricard states that “… joining Solotech is an opportunity to be a part of some of the biggest and greatest audiovisual projects in the world” – including events showcasing Taylor Swift, Adele, The Weeknd, Justin Timberlake, and Luke Bryan – and that the industry’s ‘coolness factor’ is undeniable. Marie-Claire Laplaine’s career path testifies to the fact that Solotech is teeming with employment growth opportunities. Laplaine also says she appreciates that Solotech provides training and wellness workshops that cover mental, physical, and financial health. Learn more about Solotech’s passionate behind-the-scenes teams and workplace culture – including a bona fide jam room in Montreal – here. Source: The Globe and Mail, January 23, 2024, Behind-the-scenes teams create magic at Solotech Contact: media@solotech.com
Solotech wins Lighting Company of the Year for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour at the 2023 Parnelli Awards Leave a reply Montreal, Quebec, January 31, 2024 – Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, has received the award for Lighting Company of the Year for our work on Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour at The 2023 Parnelli Awards. “What a great night for the Solotech family. Being recognized by our peers for all of the hard work that went into this record-breaking, electrifying tour during 2023 is an honor. This award goes out, not only to the hard working, passionate team at Solotech, but also to our partners: the designer, producer, production managers, and her whole management team that made this all possible”, said Mickey Curbishley, Solotech President, Live Productions Division, USA, UK. “We have some of the most creative, supremely passionate staff in the business, and this recognition is a testament to the quality of our team and the collaborative spirit we share with our partners”, added Curbishley. The Parnelli Awards, recognized as one of the live event industry’s highest honors, annually recognizes innovative companies and professionals for their influential contributions. Solotech congratulates all the 2023 nominees and winners for their impressive work in the live production industry and this incredible achievement. The award ceremony was held this past weekend in Anaheim, CA, coinciding with the 2024 NAMM Show. Contact: media@solotech.com
Solotech Named One of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People in 2024 Leave a reply Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, proudly joins for the first time the list of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People in 2024. This achievement underscores Solotech’s commitment to fostering an environment where young talent can thrive. Claudine Ricard, Chief Human Resources Officer at Solotech, mentions: “Being recognized as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People demonstrates our dedication to providing an environment where young professionals can contribute to groundbreaking projects and advance their career in a creative and innovative international company.” Solotech’s commitment to employee development is evident through its Academy, offering in-person and online training opportunities. Over 8,000 courses are completed annually by employees on Solotech’s training platform. A key factor that led to this nomination was the working environment where interns and young talent can explore new challenges and advance their career. In 2023, 63% of interns found a position at Solotech after graduating. Teams at Solotech collaborate to deliver over 10,000 projects annually. Ricard highlights the appeal of Solotech’s projects, stating, “One of the main reasons young people explore joining Solotech is the exciting opportunity to be part of some of the biggest audiovisual projects globally. This award is dedicated to our incredible diversified team, who play a vital role in bringing our events and projects to life.” As Solotech continues its successful journey, the company remains committed to providing a dynamic and supportive workplace for young professionals, fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth. Contact: media@solotech.com
Solotech’s Leadership in the Smart Infrastructure Space Leave a reply In a recent editorial featured on CIOReview, Sylvain Lemay, Technology Specialist Director at Solotech, provides insights into the world of smart infrastructure. As leaders in audiovisual and entertainment technology, Solotech is an important player in reshaping urban experiences through innovative AV solutions, which Sylvain delves into on CIOReview. Lemay’s editorial demystifies the complexities of smart infrastructure, emphasizing Solotech’s commitment to seamlessly integrating technology into the urban fabric. From conceptual design to installation, servicing, and upgrades, Solotech’s involvement in the smart infrastructure ecosystem goes beyond simply deploying technology. Click here to read Sylvain’s complete editorial on CIOReview and learn more about Solotech’s role in the smart infrastructure. Contact: media@solotech.com
Kurt Maddox Appointed National Business Development Manager, Sales and Systems Integration Division Leave a reply Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology, is proud to announce the appointment of Kurt Maddox as National Business Development Manager, Sales and Systems Integration Division. A consummate professional and a dynamic and an effective communicator, Kurt is always ready to tackle challenges and execute creative solutions. In his new role, he’ll be tasked with further developing Solotech’s presence in the US. Landon Lovett, Global Market Leader, Solotech, is excited to work alongside him. “It is my honor and pleasure to introduce Kurt Maddox to the Solotech team. Kurt’s track record of sales success in the Fortune 500 corporate arena, as well as the justice sector, particularly in US courts, is second-to-none.” Kurt’s focus will be on expanding sales and tailoring strategy to the U.S. market’s needs, specifically in Solotech’s corporate, education, and government verticals. “Kurt has held executive-level sales leadership positions at prestigious integration firms and is eager to bring that expertise to Solotech,” adds Landon. Over his 30-year career, Kurt has built a wealth of experience. Notably, he’s held strategic executive positions in the AV industry, where he managed and drove strategies and grew the sales of cutting-edge audiovisual and conferencing solutions for a broad range of industries. “I am thrilled to join forces with audiovisual industry professionals, several whom I have followed and admired for many years, to help grow Solotech’s US integration business,” says Kurt Maddox. “Solotech’s values of collaboration and respect for each other and our clients align perfectly with my own.” The entire Solotech team wishes Kurt great success in his new role. Contact: media@solotech.com
Solotech Elevates Andre Rieu’s Tour with State-of-the-Art Audio Leave a reply Solotech has reaffirmed its quarter-century partnership with Dutch violinist Andre Rieu, delivering unparalleled audio experiences on his global tour. Rieu’s unique blend of classical and waltz music, accompanied by the 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, is amplified by Solotech’s expertise. For the recent UBS Arena show in Elmont, New York, Solotech showcased its proficiency by deploying the L-Acoustics K2 PA system. With 16 boxes on the mains, 12 on the side, and complemented by KS28 subwoofers, Solotech ensured a flawless rendition of centuries-old classical compositions in a modern arena setting. Solotech’s crew chief/system engineer, Alexandre Dugas, emphasized the company’s integral role in Rieu’s tours, stating, “It’s always big shoes to fill.” The long-standing collaboration between Solotech and Rieu signifies the seamless integration of traditional musical artistry with cutting-edge audio technologies, making each concert a memorable performance. As Solotech continues to evolve its tour packages for adaptability and efficiency, the enduring partnership with Andre Rieu stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering top-notch audio solutions on a global stage. For further details, read the full article on Mix Online. Source: Mix Online (November 20), Around the World with Andre Rieu Contact: media@solotech.com
Solotech’s United Way Campaign Sets New Company Record Leave a reply Solotech is proud to announce that its 2023 United Way campaign raised $105,000, setting a new company record for charitable efforts. The amount represents a 5% increase over last year; a record that is especially significant, given that 2023 is United Way’s 50th anniversary. The campaign, which took place in all Solotech Canadian offices from October 30 to November 17, saw employees energetically organize and participate in various activities with the goal of raising donations. In 2022 alone, United Way’s efforts supported 7 million vulnerable Canadians from coast to coast, and Solotech takes pride in supporting their cause year after year. A sincere thank you goes to all employees who answered this important call to action. Contact: media@solotech.com
CDPQ becomes a shareholder of Solotech to accelerate the company’s international growth Leave a reply Montréal, November 29, 2023 – CDPQ today announced it acquired a minority stake in Solotech, a global leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology. The goal of this transaction, which represents the largest investment in the company since 2013, is to support Solotech’s acquisition and organic growth strategy to expand its presence in various markets and create more value for its customers. Solotech highlights: Founded in Montréal in 1977, Solotech has recognized experience in event and technology solutions, as well as in selling and integrating audiovisual systems. The company has 2,000 employees in 20 strategic locations in North America, Europe and Asia. Since 2013, the company has been held by a group of Québec-based shareholders—Claridge, Investissement Québec and Desjardins Capital—that CDPQ now joins. 10 acquisitions completed since 2018. Over 12,000 projects delivered annually. “With this investment—the largest in the last decade for Solotech—CDPQ will support the company in its next growth stage. Aligned with CDPQ’s priorities, this means not only shifting activities into high gear, but also facilitating the company’s global expansion and promoting its audiovisual and technological know-how,” said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Québec at CDPQ. “CDPQ’s commitment is a gauge of confidence in our business model, and their financial investment will allow us to seize new business opportunities as a global audiovisual and technology consolidator,” noted Martin Tremblay, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solotech. “We enthusiastically welcome a new world-class partner like CDPQ. We firmly believe that we will benefit from an expansive additional network that will enhance our perspectives on the Board of Directors, notably in terms of growing Solotech,” added Pierre Boivin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Claridge and Chair of the Board of Directors of Solotech. With a solid network of partners, Solotech offers audio, video, lighting, rigging, staging and control and collaboration systems, as well as eSports and webcasting technology. The company leverages its unrivalled know-how to create unique experiences around the world. It has made a name in various markets, including music, sports, business, transportation, culture and education. It also has an e‑commerce platform offering new and used audiovisual equipment. From Las Vegas to London and Miami to Ottawa, Solotech’s experienced team has been involved in corporate events, nearly 280 festivals per year and musical tours, including by Taylor Swift, P!nk, Harry Styles, Adele and The Weeknd. A major share of its annual revenues is generated by complex and large-scale audiovisual installations, including Resorts World Las Vegas, Outernet and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, Disney World, Bell Centre, Caesars Palace, Hong Kong International Airport and many more. Solotech ranks 5th among the top 50 system integrators in the world, and among global leaders in event solutions. In 2023, the company won the Parnelli Award for Video Production Company of the Year for its The Weeknd project. In 2022, it won the AV Events and Entertainment Project of the Year Award from AV Magazine for ABBA Voyage in the United Kingdom. In 2019, the company supported six of the top 10 tours in Billboard Magazine’s 2019 Year-End Touring Chart. Martin Tremblay concludes: “We’re thrilled by the new possibilities for our teams that CDPQ’s arrival will provide to further promote their expertise and talent. Serving clients around the world is the genesis of our expansion, and even today it’s what motivates us to offer quality service and the best technology for their ambitious projects.” About Solotech Founded 45 years ago, Solotech is a world leader in audiovisual and entertainment technology with 20 strategic locations in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia. Solotech is the single source for audio, video, lighting, rigging, soft goods, control and collaboration solutions and services. The company is internationally recognized for its expertise in Live Productions and Systems Integration in various markets, namely music, sports, business, culture and education. Clients can also benefit from its Service Center, Online Store and virtual technology know-how. Solotech employs 2,000 professionals in its offices located in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Nashville, Miami, Orlando, Pensacola, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Frankfort, Calgary, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City, Saguenay, Halifax, Macau and Hong Kong. Learn more at www.solotech.com. About CDPQ At CDPQ, we invest constructively to generate sustainable returns over the long term. As a global investment group managing funds for public pension and insurance plans, we work alongside our partners to build enterprises that drive performance and progress. We are active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private debt. As at June 30, 2023, CDPQ’s net assets totalled CAD 424 billion. For more information, visit cdpq.com, consult our LinkedIn or Instagram pages, or follow us on X. CDPQ is a registered trademark owned by Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec and licensed for use by its subsidiaries. – 30 – For more information: Mélanie Jolin Director, Global Public Relations and Communications +1 514 649-1553 media@solotech.com Kate Monfette Director, Media Relations + 1 438 525-2520 kmonfette@cdpq.com
