As one of the UK region's longest-running and independent audio shows, the UK Audio Show will be owned, managed and promoted by StereoNET from 2025. The upcoming October show in Staverton will proceed as planned.
In addition to the support and resources of the group that has delivered the hugely successful Melbourne International Hi-Fi Show in Australia since 2016, the UK and London Audio Shows will be managed by StereoNET's local UK-based team.
Roy Bird, founder of Chester Group, and son Justin have established a long-lasting legacy for audio shows worldwide. StereoNET has been working closely with Chester Group for the last few years to bolster their show's marketing and promotional efforts. StereoNET spoke with Roy in more detail about his career in "show business" back in 2022. You can read that story here.
(L) Justin Bird, (R) Roy Bird
Bird said:
There is for sure a right time for everything, and that can happen when there's a unique meeting of minds and objectives. In my eighth decade and having been an organiser of shows and events for most of my life, latterly 25 years in the audio industry, I've been lucky enough to preserve some valuable relationships amongst some show organisers.
Roy continued:
Yes, we can all have plans; some work out, others don't, but in this case and off the back of a similar deal recently struck with our New York Show, the opportunity was there for someone to continue with what we have pioneered and preserve a legacy. So this is not about money, far from it; it's about new energy, new ideas and longevity!
Both Roy and Justin will remain part of the local UK show team for the immediate future to ensure a smooth transition and continued show success.
StereoNET Founder and Show Director Marc Rushton added:
Over the past few years, I have come to know and respect Roy as a business person and a fellow show organiser. Countless hours have been spent discussing ways to improve the exposure of shows, discussing the intricacies and challenges of bringing show organisers together, and comparing notes on how to do a good job!
Marc continued:
It became clear that Roy's interest was solely in achieving the best outcome for the exhibitors and attendees, particularly in later years. Roy has created a legacy that we aspire to uphold and continue to deliver a high-quality show that is relevant to the customers of tomorrow and the brands, distributors and manufacturers of today.
As part of Roy's "passing of the baton", U.S.-based T.H.E Show has also acquired the long-established New York Show from 2025.
Jay Garrett, StereoNET UK Editor, added:
Since working closely with Roy and Justin over the past few years I am extremely enthusiastic to build upon what they've created. Our focus will be on building further awareness of the show's existence, while capitalising on our knowledge of consumer trends and next generations of the industry. I am confident that with our local and international team, we can deliver a high quality show that the UK market has been seeking for some time.
We at StereoNET are pleased to welcome the UK and London Audio Shows to our portfolio and will meet with key stakeholders in due course to discuss future plans. The shows will benefit from the global reach of StereoNET and will carry on the tradition of showcasing all aspects of the industry, from entry-level to high-end hi-fi, headphones, and the growing home cinema space.
The UK Audio Show will take place this weekend, October 5th-6th, at Staverton Park Hotel.