ico. While houses of worship remain the company’s primary client base, its AVL services also extend into the educational sector, including K-12 schools, colleges and universities. The team of five service people tackles everything from auditori- ums and music halls to gymnasiums and full-scale sports stadiums. Its installation projects are “design- build,” meaning the team works directly with clients to understand their unique needs, conduct multiple site visits and col- laboratively develop a customized solution. “Once we understand their require- ments, we collaborate with them to develop a budget for the solution that we believe will best meet those needs,”
Tarpley explained. However, the company is also well- versed in working with outside consultants and architects on larger-scale projects. In those cases, Tarpley said the focus
and install the systems based on their recommendations, rather than the client’s direct needs or preferences.”
SUPPLIER INSIGHT
shifts from client-direct col- laboration to interpreting the technical vision of third- party designers. “Occasionally, we work with clients who have hired an outside consulting firm to de- termine their require- ments,” Tarpley said. “In these cases, we collaborate with the architect or consultant
As more MI retailers dive deep- er into the world of AV instal- lation, it’s no longer just about what gear you stock, it’s about who you know, what you’re offering and how you position your- self. According to Fred Poole , North American sales manager at Peavey, building a successful install business starts with building the right relationships. That means partnering with vendors who not only understand your goals but also offer products that set you apart, especially from the endless scroll of big-box and online listings. “Seek out vendors whose products aren’t sold widely online,” Poole said. “Offering exclusive or semi-exclusive gear means you can ensure consistent margins and not get undercut by Amazon or large ecommerce sites. Installers can confidently quote jobs, knowing the price won’t unexpectedly drop the next day, and customers get value from gear they won’t see at big-box shops.” Peavey has been supporting retailers through this approach with its CPL+ Series, a flexible hybrid loudspeaker line designed for both portable P.A. and per- manent installations. With models like the CPL 8+, 10+, and 12+—ideal for bars, schools, gyms, and houses of worship — and smaller coaxial models like the CPL 5C+ and 25C+, which are tailored for more discreet installations in restaurants and boutiques, the line serves a wide variety of modern install environments. Poole also encouraged retailers to think beyond the traditional market of churches and concert halls. Banquet halls, restau- rants, offices, gyms and retail shops all present untapped potential for AV upgrades. And when it comes to winning those jobs? Sometimes, it’s about making the first move. “Leave a card, introduce yourself and follow up,” Poole advised. “Even if a venue already has ‘something’ in place, mention, ‘We could make that sound a whole lot better.’ Subtle improvements in clarity, vol- ume coverage or aesthetics often unlock new installs, especially when you position them as value-adds, not replacements.” MI
42 I MUSIC INC. I SEPTEMBER 2025
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