Two UK AV display companies merge to form “powerhouse”

CDS has purchased fellow UK AV display company, Displaylite, in what it labels as “the merging of two powerhouses” in the digital display sector

Jonathan Pert
April 25, 2025
[L to R] Anthony Large, technical director of CDS; Steve Legg and Simon Perry, founders of Displaylite; and Christopher Bartram, managing director of CDS

Crystal Display Systems (CDS), a designer and distributor in the display and digital signage sector, has announced the acquisition of Displaylite, a manufacturer of touchscreen and display solutions.

Displaylite has over 25 years of experience in the display industry, offering a wide range of products including touch screen tables, interactive multitouch software, and transparent displays to the professional AV sector.

This acquisition has been labelled by CDS as “the merging of two powerhouses”. CDS aims to use the merger to elevate offerings for both Displaylite’s and CDS's clients by amalgamating resources, knowledge, and services.

Displaylite’s suppliers and customers have been told to anticipate a smooth transition, with CDS focusing on maintaining existing client relationships and cultivating new, value-driven partnerships for the future.

Chris Bartram, chief executive officer and managing director of CDS, says: "We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter.

“By combining Displaylite's assets and expertise with CDS's strong infrastructure, we anticipate a powerful synergy that will set new benchmarks in the industry. More than just a business decision, it's about carrying forward a legacy and building upon it."

Displaylite was founded by Simon Perry and Steve Legg in 1999. Following the acquisition, Perry will continue working under the CDS banner, helping to oversee the transition alongside managing his own business consultancy firm – Electric Rocket.

Legg is reportedly using the purchase as an opportunity to step back from leadership roles in the display sector after 25 years in the industry.

Speaking of the purchase, Perry adds: "As a former director of Displaylite, I am truly excited about this new partnership with CDS.

“Over the years, Steve and I have built something exceptional, and now, uniting with such an innovative and forward-thinking organisation will only enhance our collective strengths. I am confident that we will achieve new milestones together, delivering even greater innovation, dedication, and an expanded range of products and services to our customers.”

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