Eighteen Sound acquires Ciare brand, plans expansion
Published: WORLD
WORLD: Eighteen Sound has announced the acquisition of its fellow Italian brand Ciare in a move that will see the Reggio Emilia-based loudspeaker manufacturer expand into new global markets. The news follows the June 2015 declaration that the two brands had entered into a strategic partnership which was then described as ‘broadening the scope of Eighteen Sound’s product line’. The purchase takes effect immediately with the two brands expected to move into complementary roles, addressing different market sectors.
Founded in 1947 and based in Senigallia, Ciare has built an extensive worldwide client base and catalogue providing products for the professional and automotive audio markets. It is described by its new owner as ‘synonymous with quality’, and it will reportedly continue as a separate brand, focusing on areas of the market not addressed by Eighteen Sound.
‘This is a direct response to our assessment of our product line offerings and it will allow us to offer a broader pallet of products,’ notes Giacomo Previ, director of global sales. ‘Eighteen Sound will revitalise and strengthen the brand, while maintaining its focus on the professional audio marketplace. The Ciare brand will be maintained autonomously and continue its storied 75 year history while catering to its loyal client following and maintaining its solid performance standards.’
Eighteen Sound’s CEO, Pierpaolo Marziali, added, ‘The brand acquisition is strategically aimed at repositioning the Ciare name. It is a fundamental step of a broader Eighteen Sound initiative to widen our product offering and client base. With the Ciare brand we will be able to utilise our engineering expertise as we expand into the mid-level segment of the sound reinforcement marketplace, as well as providing to the hi-fi and automobile markets.’