PAI has delivered audio solutions for world-renowned toy retailer Hamleys at their newest store in the intu Trafford Centre, Manchester.
Hamleys is the oldest toy store in the world, with its origins dating back over 250 years to 1760 when William Hamley founded a toy shop called Noah’s Ark at No. 231, High Holborn in central London.
Purchased by French toy retailer Groupe Ludendo in September 2012, Hamleys now boasts nine stores across the UK, including its seven-floor Regent Street flagship, which has become a well-known tourist attraction. Multiple stores can also be found across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Following previous work across the rest of the estate, PAI was invited to devise a simple background music scheme for the new venue in one of Europe’s largest indoor shopping centres.
Split into two phases, consisting of the former JJB and Ann Summers units respectively, we were tasked with the provision of audio sources alongside amplifiers and loudspeakers.
Our initial work involved a site survey by arrangement to audit and assess the existing installation, carry out impedance measurements, monitor quality and coverage, log results and provide recommendations and advice to the client – re-using equipment where practical.
A background sound amplifier was coupled with a separate amp, allowing us to balance the volume in each zone. Ceiling pendants were specified to help keep costs and installation time to a minimum, with a paging microphone also fitted as part of the scheme.
Technical Director and Account Manager, Andy Bonehill, explained: “Simple installations such as this are the lifeblood of our small projects team.
“Key to our delivery of this is the expertise and attitude of our staff.
“As a result, planning is imperative and the team is organised to deliver a quick and cost-effective turnaround for our clients, while maintaining a high quality service.”
PAI provides ongoing maintenance support to Hamleys, through our dedicated service department, as part of the retailer’s package.