Winter Warm-up: NPi Audio Visual Saves Time and Labor by Ditching Ballast Blocks for Stageline Heated Pads

CLIENT : NPI Audio Visual Solutions

INDUSTRY : Event Production

LOCATION : Cleveland, Ohio, United States

PRODUCTS : SL100, Heated Stabilizer Pads

WEBSITE : https://www.npiav.com/

In the demanding world of live event production, extending the season into the often-brutal winter months is the ultimate test of preparation, equipment, and dedication. For NPi Audio Visual Solutions, a Cleveland, Ohio-based leader in event technology founded in 1992 by Joe Thompson, the cold weather is just another opportunity to serve their clients. Owning three latest-generation Stageline SL100 mobile stages, NPi’s commitment to a “whenever, wherever” service philosophy is the key to their success.

Conquering the Cold: The Stageline Advantage

NPi’s motivation is simple: client vision. While standard cold-weather concerns include safety, setup time, and equipment freezing, NPi found their solution in the reliability of Stageline. They’ve trusted Stageline for years, appreciating the simplicity and timeliness of setup in temperatures ranging from the coldest to the hottest across the country. The Hydraulic system is a standout feature, deemed their favorite for simplifying the setup process regardless of weather conditions.

The Game Changer: Heated Stabilizer Pads

Operating in the face of brutal Ohio winters, NPi needed more than just a sturdy stage—they needed efficiency and absolute peace of mind. The Stageline Heated Stabilizer Pads proved to be the essential solution.

NPi quickly noticed a major difference since using the pads, highlighting their role in ensuring the stage is set on a dry, solid surface. Crucially, the pads eliminate the need for large ballast blocks, which NPi said took so much time and energy. They noted the pads have made cold weather setup “quicker and less labor intensive”. This simple install saves significantly in labor and material costs compared to traditional solutions.

A Boost in Confidence and Business

The impact on NPi’s crew and business is undeniable. The Heated Stabilizer Pads have brought a higher confidence, eliminating those “are you sure?” questions from the team. NPi calls the pads “the quickest, safest and most efficient tool you can use”.

This ability to ensure safety and function has been a game-changer, extending their mobile stage availability tenfold and allowing them to accept new bookings. For NPi, offering year-round solutions has been a highlight for not only them, but their clients and their guests as well.

NPi Audio Visual Solutions firmly recommends Stageline stages with the Heated Stabilizer Pads to any company offering winter events, calling the combination an essential solution that makes frozen grounds a breeze to work with.

For more strategies on operating year-round, be sure to read our article on Don’t Let Winter Freeze Your Business: The Stage Owner’s Guide to Season Extension.