After 50 successful years of business, SGPS/ShowRig (SGPS) recently announced the company’s international expansion with the opening of its first European office. Located in Utrecht, Netherlands, the new office will enable SGPS to vastly increase its international service offerings – including enabling clients to utilise SGPS’s equipment more economically and quickly across mainland Europe and the UK. “The arrival of this brand-new European facility, in addition to SGPS’s seven offices across the United States, will allow us to continue to provide custom staging, automation and rigging solutions to the entertainment industry,” Benjamin Lampman, General Manager of SGPS/ShowRig Las Vegas and Lead Project Manager for Touring stated, proudly.
Established in 1974 as Showlites, Founder, Eric Pearce immediately began revolutionising theatre lighting. He set many of the industry standards such as the ‘Par-Bar’ and the use of multi-core cables with Socapex connectors and as concert touring expanded and became increasingly complex, Showlites became the go-to company for dependable touring gear. By the 1980s, a new office in Los Angeles began providing staging (ShowStaging) and custom fabrication (ShowFabrications) which allowed the firm to expand its presence in the field. Further innovations from Pearce included the use of modular aluminium truss and dedicated equipment packaging. The film industry also benefitted from Showlites’ custom products to improve efficiency in filming.
In 2004, a Las Vegas branch – ShowRig – was opened to supply truss and motors to the growing convention and tradeshow markets. In late 2023, SGPS announced the appointment of Ned Collett to the position of President. In this newly created position, Collett, based at the company’s Las Vegas headquarters, oversees, and directs all activities for the company’s worldwide operations. “We anticipate industry trends and adapt our offerings, accordingly, providing reliable and forward-thinking solutions,” Lampman informed TPi, citing one of the many ingredients to SGPS’s astronomic growth in recent years.
Today, SGPS prioritises speedy delivery and setup, understanding the often-tight timelines, which helps clients avoid delays and ensures smooth execution. “In addition to boasting a vast range of stock equipment, catering to diverse event needs, SGPS’ commitment to innovation is reflected in every product, meticulously designed for ease of use, safety, and durability, which are all crucial aspects in the demanding entertainment industry,” Lampman noted.
“SGPS products are designed for optimal usability and efficiency, including quick loading, setup, and performance, streamlining workflows, and maximising efficiency across different event setups,” Lampman explained. “Recognising the demanding nature of the industry, SGPS ensures all equipment is built with durability in mind. It can withstand the wear and tear of transportation and frequent use, minimising downtime, and replacement costs. We set ourselves apart by offering a combination of speed, diversity of inventory, innovation, usability, durability, and a rich history of experience in the live events/entertainment rental market.”
Over the past five decades, the company has built a reputation in the concert touring circuit for making the unimaginable a reality. Namely, creating a drum rollercoaster for Mötley Crüe’s Tommy Lee; providing staging and automation for Michael Jackson, KISS, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty Tour, Roger Waters’ The Wall Tour and Panic! at the Disco’s Pray for the Wicked Tour. The company has also facilitated several iconic blink-182 drum gags; curated a video gyroscope for ZEDD’s Orbit Tour; a custom lighting ring and automation for Tame Impala; rigging and LED support structures for Tom Petty; lifts and staging elements for Justin Bieber and staging, automation, and a custom-built throne for Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl, among many other career highlights.
However, as is also being felt across many areas of the live entertainment sector, SGPS’s challenges of today include the shortage of experienced personnel. “Recognising the crucial role a skilled team plays in the success of our operations, we’ve taken a proactive approach by initiating our own training programs and partnering with applicable organisations, including those for underserved communities,” Lampman said, explaining that by investing in these programmes, SGPS hopes not only to address its immediate staffing needs but also ensure the development of a pool of “qualified individuals capable of efficiently staffing and running shows.”
Lampman believes the biggest potential for business growth lies in scenic automation and movement. “With a scarcity of companies excelling in this specialised field, we aim to lead the industry by seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology and artistic vision,” he added.
“This strategic focus positions us to meet the rising demand for dynamic and captivating stage productions, ensuring we remain pioneers in shaping the future of live events.” The addition of a European office will help SGPS cut down on shipping costs for tours that extend overseas, offering a more cost-effective and streamlined approach to supporting clients’ global endeavours.
“This move not only enhances our overall client service but also positions us as a more accessible and reliable partner for international events and productions,” Lampman remarked.
Moving forward, SGPS has several new offerings product-wise, including Cybermotion – an intuitive and advanced computer-controlled hoist system that ensures safe, seamless, and spectacular effects. “In addition to a new European office opening, we have a new facility in Nashville, which is approximately two times the size of the previous building,” Lampman revealed.
“For the long term, we will strive to continue to develop new products and relationships, as well as working on staffing solutions. Here’s to the next 50 years!”
Words: Jacob Waite
Photos: SGPS/ShowRig
