by KMB Communications | Mar 18, 2025 | Kordz
Systems integrators servicing South Korea’s high-end audio and home theatre clientele can now access Kordz’ globally renowned, award-winning connectivity solutions from one of the region’s premium distributors.
March 18, 2025 – Growing demand for Kordz’ award-winning, professional-grade connectivity solutions has attracted interest from leading distribution companies worldwide and has now opened the door to a new high calibre network in Asia. The latest addition to Kordz’ expanding network of distribution partners is HIENDAUDIO, which has provided premium AV solutions to leading residential integrators in South Korea for 20 years.
Led by CEO and renowned YouTuber, Chris Lee, HIENDAUDIO offers ISF, PVA (THX) and HAA-certified design and installation resources to AV specialists building high-end home theatre and hi-fi systems across the country. With the addition of Kordz’ extensive range of high-performance HDMI, speaker and other AV connectivity solutions to their portfolio of brands, which already includes Barco Residential, Wisdom Audio, Trinnov and StormAudio, HIENDAUDIO is reinforcing its mission to provide superior products and solutions while elevating the global prominence of South Korea’s audio culture.
The new distribution partnership not only strengthens HIENDAUDIO’s capabilities, but also provides Kordz with a valuable opportunity to showcase to South Korean integrators the difference professional-grade connectivity solutions can make. This will only be amplified by Lee’s 30 years of experience reviewing audio products on his popular YouTube channel with over 200,000 subscribers. Lee’s insights and expertise promise to benefit industry professionals and enthusiasts alike, as he shares the advantages of reliable, professional-grade connectivity solutions designed to make installation easier.
“South Korea is a new market for Kordz, so having such a well-respected distribution partner with deep knowledge, technological expertise and an established network of leading dealers is imperative to establishing a strong presence in this significant region,” says Kordz Managing Director, James Chen. “With increased industry understanding about the importance of quality to a long-lasting, reliable and future-ready infrastructure, residential and commercial AV solutions are in high demand throughout the region, and we are very excited to provide the products AV integrators need to simplify installation, improve reliability and increase project profitability.”
Adds Lee, “Kordz’ professional-grade connectivity solutions are exactly what South Korean integrators and AV specialists need to elevate the performance and reliability of their installations. With the expanding demand for high-end home theatre and audio systems, the ability to provide exceptional products like Kordz further reinforces our commitment to offering the best to our clients. We’re excited to share Kordz’ award-winning solutions with the market and demonstrate how these products can make a tangible difference in system reliability and ease of installation.”
For more information about Kordz and its extensive line of cabling and connectivity solutions, please visit www.kordz.com. For more about HIENDAUDIO and its leading range of professional AV products, please visit www.hiendaudio.co.kr.
About Kordz
Kordz is the connectivity brand for integrators, by integrators. A multi-award-winning global industry leader in professional-grade connectivity products, Kordz’ team of seasoned former integrators is on a mission to ‘Kordzify’ and optimise technology for professionals by designing, engineering and manufacturing products that deliver ease and profitability through a seamless installation experience with high performance results that today’s tech-savvy end-users expect. With a wide range of robust, fast and effective solutions backed by expert technical support, Kordz helps integrators around the world meet the evolving cabling requirements of a diverse range of residential and commercial environments. For more information about Kordz, please visit kordz.com and follow the company @kordzglobal on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
About HIENDAUDIO
HIENDAUDIO is a leading distribution company based in South Korea, specialising in providing high-quality audio, video and connectivity solutions to the professional systems integration market. With a commitment to delivering cutting-edge technologies and exceptional service, HIENDAUDIO partners with top global brands to offer advanced products that meet the demands of integrators, installers, and technology professionals. The company is dedicated to enhancing system performance and user experience across a wide range of commercial, residential, and entertainment applications. Through strategic partnerships and a customer-centric approach, HIENDAUDIO continues to be a trusted distributor in the South Korean AV industry. For more information about HIENDAUDIO, please visit HIENDAUDIO.co.kr or follow the company on YouTube.
Media Contact
For interviews, reviews, and more information please contact Katye (McGregor) Bennett of KMB Communications at (425) 328-8640 or [email protected].
by KMB Communications | Mar 13, 2025 | Daisy, News
New capital brings the rapidly growing one-year-old startup to $35 million in total funding
COSTA MESA, Calif. — Daisy, the first national home and small business technology installation and services company, is pleased to announce the successful completion of its $15 million Series C funding round. This new funding will reinforce its continued investments in acquisitions and propel further growth for its franchise operations. To date, Daisy has raised $35M, underscoring the company’s exceptional financial and operational performance in its first year in business.
The Series C investment solidifies Daisy’s balance sheet, providing significant cash resources and ensuring continued stability. By funding its operations through long-term investment partners with no debt, Daisy is building a sustainable business that can fulfill the ongoing needs of its partners, teams, and clients — encompassing home technology services such as custom audio/visual, shades, control systems, home security and smart lighting design and installation, all backed by a comprehensive service offering.
“I am so grateful to our incredible team of owners, technicians, salespeople, team members and franchisees who have continued to exceed all expectations since our launch last year,” said Hagan Kappler, founder and CEO of Daisy. “We are excited to continue to invest in this space and to provide a truly forward-thinking approach to home and small business technology installation and services.”
Daisy has invested half of each dollar raised to acquire new businesses and half to build out systems to support the integration and success of its branch operations. This support system includes its recurring services business, recruiting and retention platforms, marketing and sales support, and a tech stack to enable day-to-day business operations.
“At Daisy, delighting our clients and partners is at the core of everything we do,” said Dion Persson, co-founder and chief growth officer of Daisy. “This additional funding enables us to further invest in innovative tools and resources that enhance the experience for our local branches, their teams, and through them, the clients we serve. It’s about building a company that prioritizes both exceptional service and enduring relationships.”
“Daisy’s execution has been impressive” said Andy Spellman, Fifth Down founder and lead investor in Daisy’s Series C. “Fifth Down’s top criterion for direct investment is backing compelling founders, and Hagan and Dion exceed our views of compelling. We are excited about Daisy for all involved; especially the customers.”
Daisy recently announced its 10th acquisition, opened its seventh franchise location, and now has leading market positions in California and Florida with other locations in Connecticut, Colorado, Virginia and Arizona. To learn more about Daisy’s services, visit daisyco.com. For information on joining Daisy’s growing team or becoming a franchise partner, visit daisyco.com/franchising. For interior design firms, architects, or builders looking to integrate cutting-edge technology into their clients’ homes, please contact [email protected].
About Daisy
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers, and homeowners to create, install, and service optimal audio visual, lighting, shades, and security designs that enhance their clients’ experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information, visit daisyco.com.
About Fifth Down
Fifth Down Capital is an investment firm that focuses on private companies and investment funds in the global internet, software, consumer and fintech industries. Fifth Down’s objective is to back extraordinary individuals leveraging technology/innovation to create, reimagine, or enhance the future of our society. Fifth Down invests in venture and growth-stage businesses/funds and currently have an active roster of 100 private investments. Fifth Down invests via a network approach, and does not evaluate inbound investment solicitations/opportunities. For more information, visit www.fifthdown.com.
Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could impact actual results.
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by KMB Communications | Jan 29, 2025 | Daisy, News
Celebrating the official launch of new Daisy branch, led by industry pioneer, Bert Herrero
Ocala, FL, January 27, 2025 — Daisy, the first national home and small business technology installation and services company, has officially opened its new location in Ocala, Florida, led by technology integration pioneer Bert Herrero. Daisy Ocala launched on January 25th at the Ocala Home & Garden Show.
From Left to Right: Bert Herrero, Ocala branch owner; Sean Williams, Jose Zapata (Daisy Ocala); Suzanne Keoghan, corporate partnerships marketing
Herrero, a decades-long leader in the home technology space, is best known for founding First Priority Audio in Pompano Beach, Florida, where he set the benchmark for innovation and service, paired with support of local communities. With First Priority Audio now part of the Daisy network (acquired in July 2024), Herrero has branched out to establish a new location, hired an initial team and is already bringing cutting-edge smart home solutions to Ocala, one of Florida’s most dynamic and fastest-growing markets.
“Opening in Ocala is an exciting milestone,” Herrero shared. “It’s the perfect time to bring our vision of seamlessly connected living to this vibrant community. We’re thrilled to be able to offer local homeowners and builders technology solutions and ongoing service for their homes.”
The Ocala branch marks a significant step in Daisy’s strategic expansion, showing how committed Daisy is to supporting the entrepreneurial goals of its new franchisees. In this case, the franchisee is an experienced CI professional who is excited about building a new business from the ground up, using the full suite of Daisy tools to build a business even better than the one he had before.
Hagan Kappler, Daisy’s co-founder and CEO, shared, “Our team worked closely with Bert to help him launch the Ocala branch on time. Bert is an incredible leader, not only driving his team to success but also within the Daisy organization. We’re really excited for Bert to bring his leadership to this team and our solutions to clients in The Villages and the surrounding area.”
To learn more about Daisy’s services, visit daisyco.com. For information on joining Daisy’s growing team or becoming a franchise partner, visit daisyco.com/franchising. For interior design firms, architect or builders looking to integrate cutting-edge technology into their clients’ homes, please contact [email protected].
About Daisy
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers, and homeowners to create, install, and service optimal audio visual, lighting, shades, and security designs that enhance their clients’ experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information, visit daisyco.com.
Daisy Media Contact
For interviews or more information please contact Katye McGregor Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (425) 328-8640 or emailing [email protected].
All brands, products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved
by KMB Communications | Jan 23, 2025 | D-Tools, News
At ISE 2025, D-Tools will demonstrate D-Tools Cloud with its new Inventory Management and Job Costing modules and the recently released D-Tools System Integrator (SI) v22 software platforms. Both solutions now with international distributor pricing.
23 January 2025 – D-Tools, the worldwide leading provider of core business management software catering to the needs of the systems integration market for over 25 years, will be showcasing its latest software innovations and broader international presence at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 at the Fire de Barcelona, Gran Via from 4-7 February 2025.
On the exhibit floor, D-Tools will showcase on Stand 2L500 both of its award-winning business management solutions: the latest Version 22 (v22) of its flagship System Integrator (SI) on-premises software with a slew of new innovations, and the next-generation D-Tools Cloud with its just-released Inventory Management and Job Costing modules.
D-Tools’ Expanded International Distribution Partnerships
Both D-Tools System Integrator (SI) and D-Tools Cloud software solutions support more than 300 suppliers representing 1,200 product brands and more than 1.5 million products with integrator-level pricing in the vast D-Tools Integrated Product Library. D-Tools has completed or will soon complete unique-pricing integrations with numerous international distributors, including Habitech, Invision, Pulse Cinemas, Avoke, DbM, ADI-UK, Exertis, AWE, Northamber, Indigo and Ivory Egg. The company is working to bring the other key international distributors on board as well soon.
Moreover, the international distributor pricing integration enables integrators to create proposals and order products in local UK Sterling Pound, as well as in Canadian dollars and Australia/New Zealand dollars. This ensures that pricing is automatically adjusted for these regions, reducing the risk of errors and making your proposals more competitive and relevant in international markets.
International Debut of SI v22
ISE 2025 will also mark the international debut of D-Tools System Integrator (SI) v22, which launched in October 2024 with several additional productivity features designed to improve workflow efficiency, reduce manual tasks, and enhance the overall user experience. D-Tools SI is the most respected end-to-end business management software for the integration industry with more than 8,000 integration company users over its 26-year history.
In addition to the aforementioned international pricing update, other enhancements to SI v22 are:
Customer Portal Enhancements, including multiple signatures & counter-sign, and expanded notifications. This ensures all relevant parties can sign off, streamlining the approval process and reducing delays. The ability to counter-sign enhances trust and legal compliance, providing a robust framework for documentation.
Gantt Chart Enhancements that include a new Successors Column to better manage task dependencies, and the ability to add lag times to tasks for more realistic scheduling and resource planning.
Reports Improvements such as custom cover pages and more detailed scopes of work in proposals.
Automated Resource Assignment that enables users to automatically assign resources to projects, tasks, and service orders.
Change Order Improvements allow users to gain greater control over project costs with the ability to lock or unlock individual model/unit costs within change orders.
QuickBooks Improvements include the ability to export purchase order receipts directly to QuickBooks Online as bills.
Mobile Install Enhancements allow users to view previous versions of documents and have the option to delete or replace them with current versions, ensuring that everyone has access to the most up-to-date information.
SI Homepage Customization for setting a custom URL for quicker access to key resources.
D-Tools Cloud Debuts Inventory Management Module
The newest feature for D-Tools Cloud is the just-released Inventory Management functionality that provides integrators with a seamless solution for tracking and managing inventory. Effective inventory management leads to on-time and on-budget project completion, the efficient use of labor resources, and improved cash flow.
Among the features of this new module are streamlined purchasing workflows, enhanced receiving processes, real-time inventory tracking, efficient re-ordering and precise location management. The new Inventory Management capabilities offer benefits for every team member, including the business owner, project manager, purchasing manager, field technician and accounting manager.
With the addition to the new Inventory Management feature, D-Tools Cloud, which has now been available in the UK for more than one year, continues to build on its robust, end-to-end platform which already includes:
- Sales pipeline management and CRM administration
- Intelligent visual quoting and system design
- Multimedia proposals with e-sign and payment collection
- Project management
- Service management
- Project procurement using supplier-authorized integrator-specific pricing
- Scheduling, time tracking, and task management for field technicians
- Back-office management, accounting integrations, and reporting
Accurate Business Reporting Starts with Job Costing
Business management reporting enables business owners to build and operate more effective and profitable businesses. In particular, accurate job costing leads to more precise labor estimation, a reduction in design oversights, and more profitable projects over time. By accurately allocating burdened labor and landed material costs and comparing these actual costs against budget estimates in proposals, D-Tools Cloud faithfully exposes whether projects, even individual phases of projects, are under or over budget and by how much.
Further, D-Tools Cloud now allows system integrators to look at financial performance across projects to uncover and correct estimating deficiencies. The first in a series of business reporting tools, Job Costing offers business owners the ability to see the business more clearly and make better business decisions.
Where to See D-Tools at ISE 2025
To request a live demo of SI v22 and Cloud on the show floor, email D-Tools at [email protected] and stop by ISE Stand 2L500. To learn more about D-Tools software and sign up for free trials, visit www.d-tools.com
About D-Tools
D-Tools, Inc. is a leading provider of business management software for electronics systems contractors worldwide. For more than 25 years, D-Tools’ award-winning solutions have empowered thousands of low-voltage systems integrators to streamline their business operations for greater efficiency and improved profitability. Boasting an integrated product library complete with up-to-date specifications and unique dealer-specific pricing, the D-Tools Cloud and System Integrator™ (SI) platforms enable end-to-end management of the systems integration project lifecycle. From sales and system design through installation and ongoing service, D-Tools’ purpose-built software products ensure accurate detail that directly benefits the bottom line. For more information, visit www.d-tools.com.
Find product updates and related information by following D-Tools on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Media Contacts
Tim Bigoness, D-Tools, (925) 270-4102, [email protected]
Katye (McGregor) Bennett, KMB Communications, (425) 328-8640, [email protected]
All products, product names, trademarks and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved.
by KMB Communications | Jan 23, 2025 | Daisy, News
Newest franchise location taps into Scottsdale’s booming luxury home market
Costa Mesa, Calif., January 22, 2025 – Daisy, the first national home and small business technology installation and services company, continues its rapid expansion with the launch of its first branch in Arizona. Opening in March, the new Scottsdale franchise is well-positioned to deliver professional integration services to the region’s thriving luxury home market. With this latest addition, Daisy continues to redefine the smart home industry, bringing cutting-edge technology and recurring services to tens of thousands of clients through its network of company-owned and franchise branches.
Daisy_L to R_Steve Stary,Sales Leader Daisy, Gavin Lantzy, Franchise Development at Daisy, Jessica Thumati, Controller, Jim Schoene, Owner Daisy Scottsdale, Brian Wiersma, Operations Leader Daisy
Spearheading the Scottsdale branch is seasoned leader Jim Schoene, whose extensive experience spans 20+ years at multiple successful companies with oversight across operations, logistics, sales, program implementation, and IT. Schoene’s passion for technology paired with his strategic business acumen make him a natural fit for the Daisy network. “I’m excited for our upcoming opening — I see such a big opportunity for Daisy to service my community,” says Schoene. “With the support of a national network and Daisy’s team of smart home and franchise experts, we are well-positioned for success. Their experience in finance, sales, marketing, client services, recruiting and training will be invaluable”
“Jim’s entrepreneurial vision and operational expertise make him a great addition to our, network,” says Daisy CEO Hagan Kappler. “We’re thrilled to welcome Jim to the team and are confident in his ability to bring Daisy’s exceptional client services to this dynamic region.”
Scottsdale represents Daisy’s 15th location in its sixth state, with all locations launched in under a year.
To learn more about becoming part of Daisy’s team visit daisyco.com. To learn more about converting your existing custom integration company to a Daisy franchise, visit daisyco.com/for-integrators/, or to start a new business, visit daisyco.com/franchising/. For interior design firms looking to expand their presence in cutting-edge technology as part of their design solution, contact us at [email protected]
Download image here
About Daisy
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers, and homeowners to create, install, and service optimal audio-visual, lighting, shades, and security designs to enhance their clients’ experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information visit daisyco.com.
Daisy Media Contact
For interviews or more information please contact Katye McGregor Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (406) 446-1283 or emailing [email protected].
All brands, products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved
