Groupe Novelty, the leading European provider of technical solutions for the events and rental-staging market, has signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire EMC, the renowned educational institution for emerging AV professionals based in Malakoff, northern France.
Founded in 1989, EMC has established itself as a key player in the French AV training sector. It provides work-study training in the disciplines of image, audio, and 2D and 3D design, offering state-certified qualifications in sound engineering, AV editing, video production, VFX design, music production and more.
Groupe Novelty has collaborated with the school for a number of years, providing EMC students with internships and work-study contracts. It also partnered with
EMC on a training programme for job seekers in partnership with France Travail, the French employment agency, and AFDAS, a training body for the creative
sector. Since its inception, this programme has helped nearly 80% of participants secure jobs as stagehands.
“This success, driven by shared values and a common vision, has led us to propose EMC's integration into our group," explains Jacques de La Guillonnière, president and founder of Groupe Novelty. "This partnership represents a decisive step in our commitment to training and fostering the talents of tomorrow.”
Commenting on the important role schools like EMC play in the wider AV industry, de La Guillonnière adds: “With 1,500 permanent employees and up to 6,000 freelancers, our group is home to all technical professions, including specialists in sound, lighting, video, staging and power distribution. In the face of growing challenges, such as recruitment and the evolution of required skills in our industry – whether for permanent or freelance staff – partnerships with vocational schools play a crucial role.”
“Since its creation in 1989, EMC has consistently worked to combine academic training with real-world industry demands. Our diplomas and certifications are closely aligned with the needs of sector businesses, and our students benefit from an educational framework combining classroom learning with professional immersion,” says EMC president Guillaume Couderette. “Over the years, Groupe Novelty has become an essential partner, particularly due to its commitment to
providing strong career prospects for young talent.”
The integration of EMC into Groupe Novelty enhances this collaboration, paving the way for new projects and strengthening the school’s mission to prepare the
professionals of tomorrow for an ever-evolving industry.
Both EMC and Groupe Novelty are fully committed to their shared goal of bringing new people into the industry while supporting the continued professional development of experienced AV specialists, Couderette adds.
“We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter of our history in collaboration with a major player in the audiovisual sector” he concludes.
Further information from:
Jessica Chailloux
Groupe Novelty
+33 1 65 54 26 54
[email protected]
Alexis Lipoff (media contact)
3WM Comms
+44 (0)79 49 599 002
[email protected]
