Private Equity Takeover of AVI-SPL Discussed by CEO Zettel
AVI-SPL's Acquisition by 26North: John Zettel on What's Next for the AV Giant
It's not every day that AVI-SPL grabs the spotlight, but just hours after announcing its acquisition by private equity firm 26North, the AV industry's leading powerhouse has every reason to shine. AV Technology content director Cindy Davis sat down with CEO John Zettel to dish on the juiciest details and dispel the fears floating around. Read on for our exclusive interview!
Plunge into the interview's punchy parts below (watch the full video for the whole enchilada).
Cindy Davis (CD): AVI-SPL's new dance partner is 26North. So, let's cut to the chase: What's the lowdown on this tie-up for AVI-SPL?
John Zettel (JZ): With this deal, we're invigorated and raring to go! We've had three previous private equity sponsors, and each brought unique benefits to our table. 26North, after a thorough and extensive vetting process, stood out for several reasons. They get the industry, they're passionate about it, and they're all about what's good for AVI-SPL. Simply put, we'll keep doing what we do best—and 26North will give us the resources to take it to the next level. We're talking new markets, expanded resources, access to other portfolio companies, and more!
CD: Alrighty then, we all know acquisitions can cause a stir, especially among employees and partners. Is there any potential for shaking things up at AVI-SPL?
JZ: Only good stuff, in my book! This acquisition takes a different shape than our last one since we didn’t merge with another company. We're simply changing our financial sponsors. Rest assured, our everyday operations—from the 70 offices we've got worldwide to the 4,400 employees keeping it all running smoothly—remain untouched. We’re still the AV masters after all!
CD: Sounds like worries about layoffs or consolidations are off the table. Is the same true for our partners and customers—should they relax?
JZ: Relax, dear partners and customers! We feel you, and the sentiment goes double for y'all!
CD: In past ventures, AVI-SPL experienced synergies aplenty. What's 26North's game plan?
JZ: When I say synergies, let's be clear: We're talking growth synergies—not cost cuts or streamlining. 26North works to amplify our strategies, whether that means expanding into new territories, building on existing relationships, or enhancing our tech repertoire. Simply put, they're all about supporting our vision and helping us reach new heights.
CD: So, the AVI-SPL playbook is staying the same, right?
JZ: Absolutely! We're focusing on our winning strategies—not swapping plays. We're the biggest fish in the pond, and 26North believes in what we're doing. They're here to help us continue driving change in the AV space, not to rock the boat or change direction.
CD: Are there any specific markets you're eyeing as you set your sights on global domination?
JZ: We're keeping a few surprises up our sleeve, but know that our expansion into new territories is always based on what our customers want and need. We're in close communication with them to tailor our approach and meet their demands.
CD: Lastly, you're the man with the sparkling smile and dominance in the AV industry. What's the future looking like for you, AVI-SPL, and the fans rooting for you from their remote offices?
JZ: I'm optimistic and thrilled about the future. Our employees consistently deliver exceptional work, and we're looking to do more of the same with 26North's support. There's no shortage of opportunities in front of us, and we're excited to keep pushing boundaries in the AV realm and beyond.
Below is a brief summary of how AVI-SPL's synergies with 26North could play out:
Capitalizing on Secular Technology Trends- Embracing the rise of remote and hybrid work models by providing scalable, secure AV and digital systems.- Leveraging the shift in enterprise spending toward integrated digital workplace ecosystems.- Incorporating AI-driven efficiencies in service delivery for a more seamless user experience.
Strategic Growth Initiatives- Geographic expansion, especially focusing on Asian-Pacific and Eastern European markets.- Vertical integrations with cloud service providers for bundled solutions.- Data monetization through predictive analytics tools for optimized IT spending.
The AV world is most certainly in for an exciting ride with AVI-SPL's partnership with 26North! Stay tuned for more updates from your favorite AV powerhouse.
[Source: AV Technology, https://resourcecentral.com/videos/5dec2924a28a236ed64de60d/aviation-january-2022-avi-spl-ceo-john-zettel-discusses-26north-acquisition-to-10649b06e817451c8aec8bf3e9e1fa1a]
*In the interview, John Zettel discussing AVI-SPL's acquisition by 26North mentions that the partnership will provide resources for the business to take it to the next level, including expansion into new markets, access to other portfolio companies, and enhancing their tech repertoire.* John Zettel also emphasizes that AVI-SPL's everyday operations will remain untouched, and that they'll keep doing what they do best in the finance sector, thanks to the support of 26North.
