European Imaging Group, parent of Calumet Photographic, is acquiring a majority stake in Vocas, omnichannel retailer of professional video equipment in the Benelux. The merger creates a significant player in the photo and video sector.
The European Imaging Group (EIG), parent company of the German photo retailer Calumet Photographic, has acquired a majority stake in Vocas. Behind it is what it claims to be the leading omnichannel retailer for professional video equipment in the Benelux countries. Vocas’ owners and managers remain on board as minority shareholders.
The transaction is intended to strengthen EIG’s offering in the video sector and give Vocas the opportunity to grow through EIG’s pan-European dealer network. In addition to Calumet from Germany, the EIG portfolio also includes Wex Photo Video from the UK, CameraNU.nl from the Benelux countries and Cyfrowe.pl from Poland.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Next stage of growth
“Working with EIG provides the entire Vocas team with a unique opportunity to accelerate the next phase of growth. I look forward to continuing to play an active role in this journey,” says Erik Gils, CEO of Vocas. “As we grow, we remain true to our promise of providing the highest standards of service and the best customer experience in everything we do.”
Vocas was founded in 1989 in Hilversum, the Netherlands. Since 2011, Vocas has been owned by Erik Gils, Andre Kan and Vincent Blok. During this time, Vocas says it has become the market leader for professional video solutions in the film and broadcast market in the Benelux and a well-known player across Europe. As a full-service provider, Vocas offers on-site repair services as well as its own range of accessory products that are marketed worldwide. Just four months ago, Vocas expanded its offering by acquiring and integrating Fofic, a Dutch video editing solutions provider.
“I look forward to welcoming Vocas to the EIG family and working with management on the next phase of development. Vocas is the leading professional video player in the Benelux and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for Vocas and the other EIG companies through the shared know-how, network and reputation in their respective areas. Video is and remains a strong growth engine for EIG, and Vocas will further accelerate this growth in all regions,” says Richard Glatzel, Group CEO of European Imaging Group.
