Although 2022 was a bit more predictable than 2020 or 2021, it wasn’t any less stressful or stable. Segments of our markets are exploding while others are still stagnating. Some of the biggest manufacturers in our industry still can’t ship product consistently, and some of the smallest are turning to distributors and manufacturer rep firms to grow. In fact, 2022 was likely one of the biggest if you were a distributor. Companies like Exertis, Synnex and ADI had fantastic years. In fact, I heard over and over they were invaluable at solving supply chain issues for ProAV — helping to identify “like-products” when something you originally spec’d wasn’t available.
But, what about 2023? Will there be more stability? More predictability? Less? Only time is the true answer to that question, but I will take a stab at answering it when, later this month, I will debut my 2023 Kayye’s Krystal Ball — predictions for 2023 in AV, digital signage, UCC, live events, HomeAV and a whole new growth category for integrators — services.
Speaking of services, if you’re an integrator and you’re reading this, find out what part of your total revenue services accounts for, annually. If it isn’t above 25% — make it! Make 2023 the year you accomplish that goal, as new tech like AV-over-IP, XR, AR and AI will open the door for all sorts of new services and you need to have an infrastructure to support it!
I look forward to your feedback, and am always open to any and all suggestions for content and other ways we, at rAVe, can support the industry. My email is [email protected], and my number is +1.919.868.3358.