RCF Group Acquires EAW
RCF Group announced that it is acquiring Eastern Acoustics Works (EAW), headquartered in Whitinsville, MA, from LOUD Audio LLC, owned by Transom Capital Group. RCF noted that EAW will operate as an independent entity under its ownership, led by current EAW president TJ Smith, who welcomed the move.
RCF Group, based in Reggio Emilia and Bologna, Italy, with subsidiaries in the U.S. and Europe, operates under the companies RCF and AEB Industriale (dB Technologies). The acquisition of EAW is expected to further the company’s prominence in designing, producing and selling products and systems for professional audio and public address installations.
“Since their early days, the two companies have been very close with RCF, supplying professional drivers to EAW,” noted Arturo Vicari, CEO of RCF Group. “Both brands successfully expanded around the world, and their histories were often linked. Finally, we can look at a bright future together. Even though EAW will remain a totally independent company, being part of our group will provide EAW with the necessary investments and focus for a fast and solid growth. We are very proud to have EAW with us.”
TJ Smith, EAW president said, “For those who love EAW, it is difficult to imagine a better scenario.” He further continues, “From the first moment this possibility started to materialize, it has been clear that joining forces with RCF Group is a great opportunity for EAW. This transaction is a true recognition of what the brand represents, its potential, as well as the team we have built over recent years. With gratitude to the long list of those that built EAW over its 40-year history, we look forward to the exciting time in front of us.”
Ty Schultz, managing partner at Transom Capital Group, commented that, ‘We are very happy to have found a great new owner for the EAW brand and wish everyone involved much success going forward.’
‘While I have truly enjoyed working with all of the brands in the Loud legacy, it's now time for us to turn the page and to be entirely focused on building the Mackie brand,’ said Mackie president Alex Nelson, reinforcing Transom’s intentions. ‘Our companies have long lived in a conglomeration of brands and I believe going forward all the brands are going to benefit from new found focus, alignment and investment. This last divestiture marks a particularly exciting time for Mackie employees worldwide who are now about to embark on a journey of re-invention.’
‘Having grown up with the EAW and Mackie brands, I can truly say that this is an exciting moment. Both brands are now in a significantly stronger position to support their unique partners and customers. I look forward to the continued development of Mackie and EAW under new and more focused ownership.’ Mr Smith added.
LOUD Audio has sold the EAW business from its portfolio of pro audio and MI businesses to Italian company RCF Group.