Canada-based Q1 Production Technologies Inc. introduced its new banner, new image, and a new approach to its business at its open house and product showcase at its Vancouver facility on February 28th and March 1st. With over 35 years of combined industry experience, Q1 partners Brian Konechny, Phil Bernard, and Marc Raymond were on hand to introduce the company to over 500 industry representatives.
“Q1 combines our international experience and expertise with the impressive service reputation of Showtime Lighting in Vancouver and our expanded asset inventory in our 20,000 sq. ft. facility here in Vancouver,” said Raymond.
Showcasing its expansive inventory at the open house, Q1 introduced its team and product line to its regional clients. Representatives from Vari-Lite, High End, Strand Lighting, Rosco, Smart Stage, and Leviton/Colortran demonstrated the new products now available through Q1.
The open house also provided Q1 with the opportunity to unveil its strategic relationship with Vari-Lite Inc. Having made a substantial commitment to feature Vari-Lite as the premiere automated luminaire of its rental fleet, Q1 was able to demonstrate the complete line of Vari-Lite products including the prototype of the yet-to-be released VL3000. Vari-Lite sales and marketing vice president Bob Schacherl, along with senior product manager George Masek, gave the packed house a run-through of the features of the entire product line. John Bilyk, Vari-Lite’s Canadian regional sales manager, was also in attendance.
High End Systems representatives Randy Mayer, regional account representative, and technician Mike Hanson were also on hand to demonstrate the Catalyst video imaging system and the new Wholehog III Console. Industry representatives and guests also had the opportunity to attend a lighting workshop conducted by Tony Award-winning LD Don Holder.
Q1 Production Technologies Inc. was originally established by Raymond in March 2001 in Winnipeg where he was joined by David Budzak and Jason Wagner, formerly of Westsun Winnipeg. In February 2002, Raymond and longstanding business associate Bernard became partners in Showtime Lighting Inc. in Vancouver. In August 2002, Q1 acquired all the rental inventory assets of Westsun Winnipeg and Vancouver. The re-branding of Showtime under the Q1 banner completes the reorganization of the partnership into one company with two locations.
Konechny, founder of Showtime Lighting stated, “With the expertise of the original founders of Westsun combined with a new energy and approach to the business, we expect to propel Q1 into a leadership position in the industry.”
Raymond said, “We are thrilled about this exciting new venture. With the many changes occurring in our industry, we believe this opportunity offers significant potential for us to combine our assets and our experience into an international boutique shop which focuses on creating unique solutions for with a wide variety of clients including large theatrical and concert producers, corporate and event clients, and regional and community groups. Through Q1 we look forward to the opportunity to re-establish and create relationships with clients world-wide to continue to deliver innovative and inspired technical solutions to the industry.”