To start construction on a 5,000 square-foot production studio inside the Detroit-based convention center it manages, Cobo Center, SMG contracted TVS Communications Solutions, a video production company.
Scheduled to be completed in December, the studio will include a soundstage and equipment to be used by TVS to record and develop video segments for Cobo events and related promotions.
“This studio has been in the planning stages for more than two years and is part of Cobo’s technology strategy being phased in during the renovation that will be completed in 2015,” said Thom Connors, regional vice president and general manager, SMG/Cobo Center. ”This gives us the technical capacity onsite that is unmatched, and by doing so, we have put ourselves ahead in the market, making us very much an industry leader in technology.”
Being inside Cobo Center establishes TVS as a preferred vendor for video production services for all events taking place at the convention center. Capabilities range from HD remote and studio video services, including creative graphics and animation, to international webcasting and complete live broadcasting and events support. TVS will also provide satellite uplink capability, state-of-the-art e-learning, employee education and on-boarding tools for Cobo Center customers.
“This is making Cobo an attractive one-stop shop for offerings needed to support larger tradeshows and conventions,” said Connors. “The move makes sense for TVS customers and ours, especially with Cobo’s multi-year North American International Auto Show agreement.”
“The Cobo Center team has been tremendous to work with on this initiative, and for us, the development directly aligns with our future goals in Detroit,” said Rick Ghersi, owner and CEO, TVS. “Being associated with one of North America’s most innovative convention centers provides endless opportunity for us to further serve our clients needs immediately and effectively during trade shows.”
On Sept. 7, the new Cobo Center Grand Riverview Ballroom and atrium opened for business, representing $115 million of the entire $279 million capital improvements project, which will be completed in 2015. The final phases of the Cobo Center transformation will include: giant exterior video walls for event information and advertising; a state-of-the-art Scala wayfinding system; open-air terrace overlooking the river for event; and community programming.
