SCHOTEN, Belgium — Audioprof Group International has acquired a majority share in Community Professional Loudspeakers, the Chester, PA-based loudspeaker manufacturer with global sales activities.
Community, known mostly for its large and medium sized fixed install audio applications, was founded in 1968 by Bruce Howze. Innovations include the development of the M4, a dedicated mid-range compression driver, and the company’s lightweight fiberglass horns.
Howze will on board as a key shareholder, and remains president and R&D director, and Christine Howze also remains, as does CEO Steve Johnson, according to Audioprof, which also owns a majority stake in Apart Audio, a European loudspeaker and electronics manufacturer founded by Tom Gheysens in 1992.
“Both companies will be developed as standalone entities under the same umbrella respecting their market focus, customer base, culture and heritage,” said Hans Swinnen, Chairman of Audioprof Group International. “They will enjoy ‘best practice sharing’ from both sides. With a strong base in Europe and the USA we will strengthen our worldwide position in Installed Sound.”
“It has been a wonderful and enjoyable journey since the company’s beginning and I’m very glad to have found a shareholder and partner with the same entrepreneurial background and spirit that drives Community,” said Howze. “The relationship with Audioprof ensures continuity of the Community brand for our employees and customers, and I’m confident that we are positioning the company with the right partner for continued growth in the future.”
For more information please visit Audioprof Group (www.audioprof.com) and Community (www.communitypro.com).
