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In your opinion, what's been the most significant development in the lighting industry in the past five years?
The most significant change has been the growing up of the whole industry. When I joined Martin, this was a very immature industry, both on the manufacturers' side but also with the big production houses and production companies. I really see that the whole industry has matured. I'm not saying this is good or bad, but it's just a normal development. As time passes, it grows up and gets more corporate, so to speak. The big are getting bigger, the small stay small, and those in between fight for their lives
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What do you think of the trend of convergence of lighting and video?
It's an ongoing process, and I think we've just seen the start of it. I don't know where it will end, but it will merge completely. And when I say completely, it's not just technology; the companies servicing light and visuals will have to get into both. That's the way it goes, and that trend will continue.
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Where do you think this industry will be in another 10 years?
Only imagination puts a limit [on the future]. The industry will be even stronger. All the technologies will be melding together with technologies we haven't even heard about yet. It's going to be very exciting. There's going to be a lot of business opportunities.
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What is your best advice for running a successful business?
Look after your customers. They pay your salary. That's what it's all about. It's so simple, and we all tend to forget it now and again. I tell my staff over and over again that the customer pays your salary. If he's not satisfied, he will stop paying it.
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What has been your proudest moment in your career?
The launch of the MAC 2000. That really was the product that visualized the change in Martin from the disco period days to a highly professional company.