Lewis CaliburnThe dnp Supernova range of ALR (ambient light rejecting) screens will now transition to Visual Displays Ltd (VDL), ensuring the brand continues its legacy as VDL Supernova ALR.
Originating in Denmark, the Supernova screens have been manufactured by dnp denmark A/S for many years under the umbrella of Dai Nippon Printing of Japan. However, with the recent surge in the electric vehicle market, strategies are shifting. As a result, dnp announced that the Supernova range would cease shipment by the end of June 2024.
VDL and its founder, Greg Jeffreys, have long-standing ties with dnp, tracing back to the 1990s. Greg initially offered consultancy to dnp as they forayed into the pro AV rear projection screen market. This partnership later evolved, with Greg’s company, Paradigm, becoming dnp’s exclusive UK distributor, before ultimately transitioning into VDL in 2016.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the potential of ALR screen technologies, with VDL pioneering its use in the higher education and corporate sectors. Microsoft’s ascent in the hybrid meeting and teaching arena further bolstered the demand for ALR projection, given its ability to cater to larger display sizes, making it ideal for showcasing multiple content windows.
In support of partners within Microsoft and Epson, VDL introduced the VDL Digital Canvas – a display solution that amalgamates ALR screen, 3LCD laser projectors and mounting accessories tailored for the global Microsoft Teams Room and education markets.
Adding to this synergy, Karsten Solaas, who onboarded Greg with dnp in the 1990s, has now joined the leadership team at VDL. He will spearhead the VDL Digital Canvas product line and fortify partnerships with Microsoft and Epson.
Commenting on the acquisition, Greg says: “It’s an end of an era with dnp, where I’ve gained invaluable insights and built lasting friendships. However, as VDL accelerates its growth in the hybrid space, acquiring the Supernova brand is a golden opportunity to elevate it even further.”
Echoing these sentiments, Niels Hermansen, COO of dnp Visiosign, shares: “While it’s a poignant moment bidding adieu to our screen business, we’re invigorated by the new horizons in next-gen battery technologies. Having known and collaborated with Greg from the outset, we’re confident that under VDL, the Supernova brand will not only survive but thrive. We are committed to ensuring a seamless transition by summer 2024.”