SAS MOVES STATESIDE
The new year sees SAS putting energy and commitment behind developing its presence in the North American market. With Divisional Director Paul Aubrey relocating to run the Manhattan office, it is clear that the company sees significant growth opportunities there.
“SAS has a great track record of working in international markets,” observes Aubrey. “We are already delivering projects in the USA and, with several more opportunities in the pipeline, now is the perfect time to focus on growing our share of a vibrant architectural scene.”
As a specification-led solution, SAS naturally works closely with global architectural firms. Established relationships with firms such as Gensler and Nicholas Grimshaw provided initial opportunities within the US and the company has built on these to establish a growing presence in the region.
“We are seeing a shift in the US that mirrors what we see in our European and global markets,” Aubrey continues. “Designers are becoming much more open-minded about the potential for ceilings to make a positive design statement. Less monolithic white expanse and more varied, industrial and open plan designs. This is where our technical teams really excel – working closely with the architects to turn their vision into reality.”
Aubrey is confident that SAS will provide market-leading service, despite retaining its manufacturing in the UK. “Putting a technical team on the ground in New York enables us to provide fast agile service. This is supported by our flexible manufacturing provision which provides delivery lead times that compare well with established players in the US market.”
The first US office for SAS is in midtown Manhattan, located close to many of the leading architectural practices. A team of technical experts and specification support staff is now located in the heart of the New York design community, able to call on all the resources of the UK design team as required.
Moving to the US to develop the business, Paul Aubrey sees huge opportunity: “We are effectively the disrupter in a market dominated by large, long-established players. Being innovative, flexible and creative will be significant assets in a buoyant and forward-looking environment.”