R Retail Excellence Awards
PROAUDIOSTAR Brooklyn, New York
Founded: 2006 Principal: Ron Wolf Locations: 1 store with 2 warehouses locations in Virginia and Nevada. Employees: 60
plained. “We’re quick to accept change and try new things. We’re not stuck in a model that says this is how it has to hap- pen. Having an open mind and listening to staff members and being willing to take risks is important.” This flexibility has been critical in their approach to social media, where the dealer crafts dynamic content to showcase a wide range of products — from boutique effects pedals to high- end audio gear. ProAudioStar’s team is known for actively engaging with the community, creating videos, tutorials and product demos that are not only in- formative but also fun for followers. KEEPING IT FRESH The team listens closely to both new and long-time staff members, valuing fresh ideas and taking risks to maintain relevance and vibrancy in its content. “We have a lot of direct communica- tion with our customers between social media and emails that we’ve collected over almost 20 years,” Wolf said. “We have about close to 900,000 customers that we can reach. We have a great cul- ture in the office and a great team, and we keep it creative and give people the flexibility to do what they need to do.” ProAudioStar collaborates with most of the brands it sells. Its content is cre- ated in-house and manufacturers ap- preciate its fresh perspective, according to Wolf. “Our staff live and gig and work in New York City,” Wolf said. “We are constantly exposed to new ideas and adapting. We don’t look to stay ahead of trends or copy them. The musicians who work for ProAudioStar come from all over the world and bring unique per- spectives to the table every day. I would like to think we set our own agenda and not focus on trends.” MI
ProAudioStar’s Ron Wolf
SOCIAL MEDIA SUCCESS With a focus on authenticity and direct connection with its customers, ProAudioStar’s social media strategy has proven essential to the growth and relevance of the 19-year-old business. — By Kimberly Kapela
P roAudioStar, now in its 19th year, has emerged as a dynamic force in the pro-audio retail industry, adapting to ever-evolving market condi- tions and industry trends. Founded by Ron Wolf, the Brooklyn-based company was applauded by voting suppliers in our annual Excellence Awards for its
social media influence and its work to promote its brands and drive custom- er engagement. Wolf emphasized that ProAudioStar’s success comes from a strategy built on clear, focused decision- making and a willingness to adapt to new trends. “We’re very adaptable,” Wolf ex-
48 I MUSIC INC. I DECEMBER 2024
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