Harris links with SCMS

As Harris sees signs that broadcasters are once again ready to consider spending money to improve their stations, the Florida-based company signs a deal making SCMS the exclusive sales broker for its studio and console business in the U.S.  Harris still has it’s own internal sales team and will continue to provide the majority of field service and technical support for its radio broadcast customers.

The deal extends Harris’ reach into small and medium-sized markets for single item sales.  Harris also expects SCMS to boost its ability to package complete studio systems in markets of all sizes.  Harris Broadcast director of strategic marketing Richard Redmond says, “The relationship gives Harris an exclusive, high-profile dealer that owns a large part of the radio broadcast resale market, improving our ability to reach more customers and deliver complete solutions.”

SCMS has been a tech seller to radio for 35 years and has nine field offices around the country, which Redmond says will help Harris expand its ability to sell studio equipment and transmission products.  The last year has been tough for Harris’ broadcast division, as radio groups stopped spending money on all but the bare necessities. But over the last several months, Harris has said it’s seen a “rebound” in stations interested in buying equipment.  SCMS president Bob Cauthen agrees. “Despite the tough economy, there are a large number of radio stations and broadcasters that are growing and in need of new facilities,” he says.