ing to improve its product and processes. Their investment in multiple brands over the years has ensured that they continue to grow for the ever-changing markets they are involved with.” To the voter’s point, Eastman’s prod- uct lines have not only grown in quantity but have also shown a steady improve- ment in variety, reflecting the evolving music market. “Every time we debate whether or not we should take on a company or a new brand or a new product line, we al- ways look at how that’s going to affect everything else that we’ve got going on and the current products that we have,” said Ryan Richman, Eastman Music Company’s vice president. “We would love to grow and seek out opportunities in any of the areas of the MI industry. We look at all the areas that we don’t have representation and think about how we could potentially offer products in that area.” TUNING INTO SUCCESS One instance of these strategic acquisi- tions was the late-August 2024 purchase of Malletech, which allowed Eastman Mu- sic Company to extend its reach into the world of percussion. “We have had a pretty big hole in our product offering and that was per- cussion,” Richman explained. “We have been talking to Malletech for five years and what ultimately attracted us to them was the quality of the products and also the quality of the people mak- ing the products and their passion and commitment to what they are doing. If you look at Malletech’s list of artists, it’s really extensive, and there’s some of the finest players in their categories across the board.” As Eastman’s product portfolio ex- pands, so does the opportunities for its dealers to offer comprehensive solu- tions in their music stores, drawing in a wider range of musicians and poten- tial customers. “I think the secret is that you have to find the right people who are just as committed to the cause as you are,” Richman said. “Everyone on our team has the same mission in their head. I think that having that attitude and drive helps our sales managers speak really well to their dealers and their customers about our company.” MI
Eastman Music Company’s Ryan Richman
A DEALER’S BEST FRIEND With an ongoing commitment to quality, growth and an ever-growing catalog, Eastman Music Company is an example of the ultimate dealer partner. — By Kimberly Kapela
E astman Music Company has grown into a leading force in the music in- dustry, expanding its footprint with an impressive and ever-evolving portfolio of products. Central to this growth has been its commitment to innovation and quality, paired with an approach that val- ues dealer feedback as an essential part
of its mission. So much so, that retailers called out the company’s willingness to listen to its dealers while voting in this year’s Excellence Awards. “The evolution of this organization has been amazing to watch,” said one Ex- cellence voter. “[Eastman] believes that feedback is a gift and is continuously look-
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