Global electrical giant Legrand has signalled its intent to establish itself as a key player in the high end custom install and home automation market by actively promoting Vantage in the UK for the first time. The home automation system, which hails from the US, had previously been marketed on a Europe-wide scale from Vantage’s European headquarters in Belgium. Richard Hayward, marketing manager for Legrand’s wiring device division, said: “Until now the time had never quite been right to bring Vantage into the UK, but today, thanks to a growth in demand for single system home automation, greater emphasis on the need to save energy and the first real signs of an upturn in the housing market we have conditions in which Vantage can, and I’m sure will, flourish.” Legrand claims Vantage is the most powerful system on the market to deliver complete home automation as a result of its InFusion central processing unit. It provides fully integrated, intelligent control over both the dimming and switching of lighting, and other solutions such as AV, heating and security. The company says that Vantage’s software is quicker and easier to programme than any other system and the results allow a home to be shaped to specific tastes and expectations with the touch of a button. “Other systems at this top end of the residential and leisure market specialise in one particular area of home automation, whether it be lighting, AV or security, but Vantage is a true all-rounder with a hugely impressive track record,” said Hayward. Vantage is said to enjoy great popularity amongst the high net worth individuals in the sport, show business and business communities that make up its customer base. It has been used extensively in stunning residential properties, private yachts and exclusive hotels. Recent installations include five star hotels in Mayfair and Knightsbridge, a 6,000 sq ft penthouse apartment in Tribeca, New York, and the five deck 230 ft My Samar yacht. Additionally, Vantage is the home automation system of choice for the world’s leading private concierge service, Quintessentially. “Vantage really is home automation at the very top of the market,” continued Hayward. “It delivers stunning solutions across lighting, comfort and entertainment and when utilised to provide all three has no equal.” The appeal of Vantage is extended even further due to the fact it can be used in conjunction with Legrand’s Arteor range of wiring accessories, which provides a greater choice of user controls, the ability to match all accessories and the advantage for installers of dealing with just one company for every aspect of home automation and control. Legrand has appointed Asheridge Communications as its first UK distributor. The Buckinghamshire-based equipment supplier has an excellent reputation amongst custom installers and European cable operators for its service and technology and will be opening a Vantage showroom at its Chesham headquarters in October. This will be supported by a showroom at Legrand’s Birmingham HQ, with the company also offering free training and technical support for all new Vantage installers and end users. www.vantageemea.com
