Speculation is mounting that Control4 is set to establish a subsidiary operation in Australia, or alternatively hand distribution to Adam Merlino a former senior executive at Advanced Audio the current distributor.
Sources in the USA and Asia, have confirmed that Merlino has been in discussions with Control4 since quitting Advanced Audio. Merlino who is still listed as a 50% shareholder of Audio Connection a Company also part owned by Josef Riediger the major shareholder in Advanced Audio.
During the past year Advanced Audio achieved double digit growth in Australia with the business believed to be achieving sales of between $5-$6million.
Merlino who recently established a new business called Hi Fi Technology wrote recently “Approximately 6 years ago I became heavily involved in Advance Audio Australia (which has been operating for approximately 25 years) as a contractor developing its custom integration division. I take great pride of what I achieved over this period of time with brands like Control4, Linn, TruAudio, Autonomic, Steinway Lyngdorf and various other supporting products”.
He said that his exit from the Company was a “difficult one”.
A hint of what may have been in store was when Merlino wrote “Whilst I have not decided my future direction, it is my intention to remain in this exciting and cutting edge industry. It’s a small world and I am sure our paths will cross again.
Robert Kidd Control4 Managing Director, Sales for Asia Pacific was not available to comment due to Chinese New Year. Kidd is based in China.
Recently Control4 released a new range of intelligent Square Wireless Lighting products, the range was set to be released in Australia.
The new line, which consists of a Wireless Dimmer, Wireless Switch, and Wireless Keypad, all offer intelligent wireless lighting automation in a compact square form-factor to fit a variety of wall boxes.
Martin Plaehn, CEO of Control4. “By combining our proven wireless smart lighting control technology with international design, we now offer an incredibly elegant solution to homeowners around the world, while also simplifying project design and installation for our dealers.”
He said that the new Square Wireless Lighting line opens up the opportunity for international Control4 dealers to offer smart lighting solutions in new construction and retrofit installations.
