Kawai Australia has recently announced the acquisition of the established piano retailer, PianoMax, marking a significant step in expanding its operations in the Australian market. Starting December 1, the store will operate under the name 'PianoMax by Kawai', led by Sam Blanchard-Jackson, the store manager, alongside prominent figures in the industry like Neville Oleo, the former owner of PianoMax, and Warwick Baker, the General Manager of Kawai Australia.
PianoMax, a beloved fixture in the Adelaide area since its founding in 1977, has been synonymous with quality piano sales and music education. With its reputation for offering not only pianos but also sheet music, it has played a crucial role in supporting the local music community. Following the decision of the previous owner to retire, Kawai Australia saw this as an opportunity to continue the legacy of PianoMax and reinforce its distribution network in the region.
Kawai Australia has a long-standing history of wholesaling musical instruments mainly to local retailers across the country. The acquisition of PianoMax is seen as a strategic move to maintain and enhance relationships with local musicians and music educators, which is essential for sustaining the cultural fabric of Adelaide's music scene. The decision to take over the store stems from a firm belief in the synergistic benefits it would bring to both companies as they work towards providing improved products and services.
According to Kawai Australia President Keisuke Shimizu, Adelaide is a vital market within the Australian landscape, with a rapidly growing metropolitan population nearing 1.5 million. Success in this area is viewed as a harbinger of potential success in other Australian states. Shimizu notes, "PianoMax has been a great partner for Kawai, engaging in piano sales and serving as a hub for music enthusiasts in Adelaide. We are thrilled to assist in sustaining the local music culture by continuing the legacy of this renowned store."
As part of the announcement, the newly rebranded PianoMax by Kawai will feature a spacious two-story layout at its location on 201 Magill Rd, Maylands, covering an area of approximately 580 square meters. The store will not only focus on piano retail but will also sell sheet music and offer comprehensive after-sales services, assuring customers that they will receive ongoing support long after their purchases.
Emphasizing the importance of the Adelaide market, Shimizu likens the new endeavor to the fine wines that the region is famous for, stating, "Just as these wines mature over time, we hope that PianoMax by Kawai will grow to be a beloved part of the community and enrich the local music culture with depth and flavor."
This acquisition marks an important chapter not only for Kawai Australia but also for the Adelaide music community, as it continues to foster a nurturing environment for music lovers and professionals alike. With a strong commitment to enhancing the local music scene, Kawai Australia looks forward to a fruitful future with PianoMax, ensuring that the spirit of music lives on in Adelaide and beyond.