2026 Blockbuster: Barco Moves to Acquire VerVent, Parent Company of Focal and Naim

Todd Anderson · 2026-03-10T09:11:57-0500

(March 10, 2026) In a move that could reshape the landscape of high-end audio and home cinema, Barco has reached an agreement in principle to acquire VerVent Audio Holding, the premium audio group behind the Focal and Naim brands. The transaction marks one of the most significant industry developments of the year so far, placing two of the most recognizable names in high fidelity audio under the umbrella of a global visualization technology company.

Barco, headquartered in Kortrijk, Belgium, is widely known for its work in professional visualization technologies across cinema, enterprise, and healthcare markets. The company reported sales of €964 million ($1.05 billion) in 2025 and has built a reputation for high-performance projection systems used in commercial cinemas, premium residential installations, and specialized professional environments. With the acquisition of VerVent Audio Holding, Barco is signaling a broader ambition. The company intends to move beyond visualization and establish itself as a provider of fully integrated audiovisual solutions where picture and sound are developed as a unified experience.

At the center of that strategy are Focal and Naim, two brands that have long held influential positions within the audiophile and home theater markets. VerVent, headquartered in Saint Étienne, France, is the parent company responsible for the global operations of both brands. Its portfolio spans high-end loudspeakers, electronics, headphones, studio monitors, automotive audio partnerships, and an expanding presence in the custom installation and home theater channel. The company also maintains a sizable global retail footprint, including more than 80 premium boutiques and thousands of additional sales points worldwide.

According to Barco, the enterprise value of the transaction is approximately €135 million ($147 million), and the deal is planned to be financed with Barco’s own funds. VerVent generates annual revenue of roughly €110 million ($120 million). Barco also says the premium audio segment targeted by this acquisition is estimated at more than €3 billion ($3.27 billion) globally, with growth being driven by demand for immersive sound formats, active speaker systems, connected audio platforms, and more direct consumer distribution models.

From a strategic perspective, the move positions Barco to expand its presence in markets where immersive experiences increasingly rely on tightly integrated audio and video technologies. The company already maintains a strong presence in cinema projection and premium residential display solutions. Adding premium audio to the fold creates an opportunity to develop more cohesive solutions across entertainment, home theater, and professional venues.

Following the close of the transaction, VerVent will be integrated into Barco’s Entertainment division, where it will continue operating with a focus on premium audio positioning and technology development. Barco says it intends to support VerVent’s ongoing strategy, which includes continued investment in digital and connected audio products, expanded active speaker technologies, and further development of its global retail and distribution network.

While there's currently no estimated closing date, we do know the process remains subject to customary regulatory conditions and consultation with employee representative bodies. Once those steps are completed, VerVent Audio Holding will officially join the Barco group.

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2026 Blockbuster: Barco Moves to Acquire VerVent, Parent Company of Focal and Naim

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