News and Events

Los Angeles, CA. UBS is pleased to announce the appointment of Donogh Roche as General Manager. With a distinguished 20-year career in software leadership, Donogh brings a wealth of experience spanning engineering, executive management, and strategic M&A.

Donogh began his career at IBM as a software engineer before joining the VC-funded SaaS provider WebSell. There, he rose through the ranks from developer to CEO and ultimately led the company through a successful acquisition by Volaris Group. Following the acquisition, he took on an integration leadership role within the Bureau Portfolio, guiding new companies through the M&A transition process.

“We at UBS are excited to welcome Donogh to the team,” said Vic Khosla, Chief Operating Officer. “His blend of deep technical knowledge and sharp operational strategy is a perfect match for UBS. We’re confident that his leadership will drive customer delight and growth through scalable software solutions.”

Donogh holds a degree in Computer Science from University College Cork and carries certifications in data-protection practice and cybersecurity. He is also a recent alumnus of the executive finance program at London Business School. Based in Cork, Ireland, Donogh is a WSET-certified sommelier, is (slowly) mastering ballroom dancing with his wife, and is rediscovering his love for tennis after a long hiatus.

Please join us in welcoming Donogh to UBS.

Download the press release HERE

Media Contact
Haresh Makwana
Marketing Manager
310-396-3929
www.unibiz.com

A huge thank you to all our incredible guests and presenters for making the R2 Engage Seminar in Porto, Portugal an unforgettable success!

From May 28–29, we packed two powerful days with energy, innovation, and insight—featuring 8+ deep-dive sessions and over 16 hours of cutting-edge content. Attendees got the first look at brand-new modules, groundbreaking apps, and exciting feature upgrades—including the exclusive launches of R2 Forms and R2 Reports.

We also featuted a special RFID presentation that demonstrated real world insights into this technology.

Thanks for being part of this amazing event—we're just getting started!

Vic Khosla (Chief Operating Officer) and Shawn Pasco (Product Manager) were proud to represent UBS at the 2025 AV Alliance Meet in Osaka, Japan — an inspiring global gathering of AV industry leaders, innovators, and partners.

Throughout the event, they engaged in insightful conversations, shared new operational benefits in R2, explored emerging trends, and strengthened connections with clients and colleagues from across the AV Industry. Events like these reaffirm the power of collaboration and innovation to shape the future of our industry.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success. We look forward to building on the momentum, deepening our partnerships, and driving transformational progress together.

UBS remains committed to empowering our clients, advancing new solutions, and leading with purpose in an evolving global landscape.

Los Angeles, CA. UBS is proud to announce the promotion of Vikram Khosla to Chief Operating Officer (COO), a milestone that marks a new chapter in the company’s continued growth and commitment to excellence.

Vikram has been an integral part of the UBS team, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to delivering value to both clients and colleagues. In his new role, Vikram will oversee Sales and Marketing, Professional Services, and Customer Support, bringing these core functions into tighter alignment to better serve the company’s growing customer base.

“Vikram’s promotion to COO is a reflection of his tireless work ethic, strong leadership capabilities, and his ability to drive operational excellence,” said Patrick Stephens, General Manager of UBS. “As we look to the future, I am confident that his vision and experience will be instrumental in guiding us through our next phase of innovation and expansion.”

With a proven track record of success and a reputation for inspiring teams to reach their highest potential, Vikram is well-positioned to take on this critical leadership role. His promotion is not only a celebration of his achievements but also a sign of the exciting opportunities ahead for UBS.

Please join us in congratulating Vikram Khosla on his well-earned promotion and wishing him continued success as he steps into this important position.

About Vikram Khosla
Vikram “Vic” Khosla brings over 30 years of experience in Business Development, Marketing, and Enterprise Sales, with deep expertise in launching new products and entering new markets. He has successfully led UBS product launches across North and South America, the UK, Europe, Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. Vic has been instrumental in forming strategic alliances, localizing products for regional markets, and achieving preferred product status with major industry groups.

Before joining UBS, Vic served as a systems analyst at Union Carbide, where he helped design its global operations software solution. He has been honored twice with the Sterling Silver Tiffany Award for professional excellence. He also received the prestigious National Management Scholarship at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and is a lifetime member of the National Management Honor Society (Sigma Iota Epsilon).

Vic graduated with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Poona, India, and holds an MBA in Information Systems and International Business from the University of Houston. He is also a graduate of the prestigious “Leading Global Businesses” executive program at Harvard Business School.

A passionate travel and aviation enthusiast, Vic was ranked 6th nationwide in merit for fighter pilot selection in the Indian Air Force and flew gliders during college, completing his first solo flight at the age of 17. He currently resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife and two children.

About Unique Business Systems
UBS is a leading provider of innovative software technology solutions, purpose-built to empower AV rental businesses worldwide and drive measurable outcomes. With a focus on customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships, UBS is committed to helping clients thrive in an ever-changing marketplace.

Download the press release HERE

Media Contact
Haresh Makwana
Marketing Manager
310-396-3929
www.unibiz.com

We are excited to announce an important update to our support ticket submission process, effective April 15th. In our ongoing effort to enhance efficiency and deliver quicker resolutions, we are transitioning from email-based ticket submissions to a more streamlined system, featuring phone support and our dedicated online support portal.

New Support Ticket Submission via:

1. Online Portal
Submit and track all your tickets and access history, via our user-friendly Support Portal HERE

2. Phone Support
Speak directly with our Support Team at 1-(310) 396-3929 for immediate assistance.

This transition will enable us to more effectively prioritize and manage requests, resulting in faster response times and enhanced customer service.

Please Note: Effective April 15, the Unibiz support email inbox will no longer be monitored and will be deactivated. Please utilize one of the two methods outlined above for support.

The entertainment industry is always changing, driven by new technologies, shifting consumer preferences, and innovative storytelling methods. Staying updated with the latest trends is crucial for anyone involved in this dynamic sector, from creators to marketers and business leaders. In this article, we'll explore some of the key trends currently reshaping the landscape of entertainment.

Streaming Services Dominate the Market

Streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume entertainment. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video have become household names, offering vast libraries of content accessible at the touch of a button. This shift from traditional cable TV to on-demand streaming has not only changed viewing habits but also how content is produced and distributed.

• The Rise of Original Content
  One significant trend is the investment in original content by streaming platforms. Companies are pouring billions into creating exclusive series and films to attract and retain subscribers. This has led to a boom in diverse storytelling and the emergence of new voices in the industry.


• Fragmentation of the Market As more streaming services enter the market, consumers face a fragmented landscape. While this means more choices, it also leads to subscription fatigue as viewers have to manage multiple accounts to access all the content they want. This fragmentation is driving innovation in bundling and partnerships to simplify user experience.

Virtual and Augmented Reality Transform Experiences

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are no longer just futuristic concepts; they are becoming integral to entertainment. These technologies offer immersive experiences that traditional media cannot match, opening up new possibilities for storytelling and audience engagement.

• VR in Gaming and Beyond
  VR has found a strong foothold in the gaming industry, with major titles offering VR support. However, its application is expanding into other areas like virtual concerts, theme park attractions, and even cinema. This expansion is redefining what it means to be entertained, providing interactive experiences that blur the line between the virtual and real worlds.


• AR in Live Events
  AR is enhancing live events by adding digital layers to physical experiences. From interactive sports broadcasts to concerts with AR elements, this technology enriches the audience's experience and offers new ways to engage fans.

The Impact of Social Media on Content Creation

Social media platforms are playing an increasingly influential role in the entertainment industry. They are not only distribution channels but also spaces where trends are born and evolve.

• TikTok and Short-Form Content
  TikTok has popularized short-form video content, influencing how creators and brands approach content production. This format's success is prompting other platforms like Instagram and YouTube to invest in similar features, such as Reels and Shorts, to capture audience attention.


• Influencer-Driven Entertainment
  Influencers have become key players in entertainment, with their ability to reach and engage vast audiences. They are shaping trends and even crossing over into traditional media, starring in films, TV shows, and ad campaigns.

Diversity and Inclusion Take Center Stage

The call for diversity and inclusion in entertainment is louder than ever. Audiences are demanding content that reflects the complexity of the real world, leading to more diverse representation in front of and behind the camera.

• Representation in Media
  There is a growing emphasis on telling stories from underrepresented groups. This shift is not only a moral imperative but also a business opportunity, as diverse content often resonates with wider audiences and drives engagement.


• Industry Initiatives
  The industry is responding with initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity. Studios and networks are committing to diversity quotas, supporting minority-owned businesses, and investing in projects that promote varied perspectives.

Sustainability in Production

As environmental concerns grow, the entertainment industry is under pressure to adopt sustainable practices. From reducing carbon footprints on film sets to promoting eco-friendly messages through content, sustainability is becoming a priority.

• Green Filmmaking Practices
  Filmmakers are exploring ways to reduce waste and energy consumption during production. This includes using renewable energy sources, minimizing single-use plastics, and implementing recycling programs on set.


• Content with a Purpose
  Audiences are increasingly interested in content that addresses environmental issues. Documentaries and narratives that focus on sustainability topics are gaining popularity, encouraging viewers to reflect on their impact on the planet.

Conclusion

The entertainment industry is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, social changes, and a heightened awareness of global issues. By staying attuned to these emerging trends, industry professionals can better navigate this evolving landscape and continue to create compelling content that resonates with audiences worldwide. These trends highlight the exciting opportunities and challenges facing the entertainment sector. As we move forward, the ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial for success in this ever-changing industry.

The live event equipment rental industry operates in a complex and fast-paced environment, where precision, timing, and reliability are paramount. From concerts and corporate events to festivals and trade shows, the demand for high-quality audiovisual equipment and technical support has grown exponentially in recent years. However, the backbone of any successful rental operation lies not just in the quality of the equipment or the expertise of the staff, but in the efficiency of logistics and inventory management. In this dynamic landscape, the role of sophisticated software platforms and services is becoming increasingly essential for managing the multifaceted challenges that rental companies face.

Logistics and inventory management are the lifelines of the event equipment rental business. Companies in this sector must juggle multiple events, diverse equipment needs, fluctuating inventory levels, and tight delivery schedules—all while maintaining high standards of service and reducing costs. Traditional methods of managing inventory—often reliant on manual processes or outdated software—are proving inadequate in the face of growing demands and complexities. And therefore, the need for more advanced, integrative solutions has never been more apparent.

At its core, these software platforms and services must be adept in addressing the fundamental need for efficiency and accuracy in managing inventory, scheduling deliveries, and coordinating staff. And they’d be able to do so by leveraging the latest technologies, including real-time data analytics, mobile compatibility, and seamless integration with other business systems. The result would be a transformative tool that not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly impacts the bottom line by optimising resource allocation and reducing waste

One of the primary challenges faced by equipment rental companies is the optimisation of their inventory. Equipment must be available when needed, in the right condition, and at the right location, which requires meticulous planning and coordination. In such a scenario, real-time inventory tracking capabilities ensure that every piece of equipment is accounted for, from its current status and location to its future availability. This level of visibility is crucial in an industry where equipment downtime or unavailability can lead to lost business and damaged reputations.

Furthermore, seasonal fluctuations and unexpected changes in event schedules add another layer of complexity to inventory management. In this unpredictable environment, the ability to respond swiftly and effectively to changes is vital. Robust planning and forecasting tools allow companies to adapt to these shifts by providing accurate, up-to-date information on inventory status and availability. This not only helps in meeting client demands but also minimises unnecessary costs associated with last-minute sub-hires or emergency purchases.

Cost efficiency is another critical factor in the event equipment rental industry. With margins often tight and competition fierce, companies must find ways to maximise the use of their owned inventory while minimising expenditures on sub-hires and capital investments. An ideal management platform would be expected to address this need by providing comprehensive tools for managing equipment utilisation. By analysing data on equipment use, companies can identify patterns and trends, making informed decisions about purchases, rentals, and retirements. This data-driven approach helps reduce capital expenses and improves financial performance by ensuring that investments are aligned with actual demand.

In addition to inventory optimisation and cost management, rental companies would also benefit from platforms and services that enhance overall workflow efficiency through its integration capabilities. A platform designed to interface seamlessly with other software systems commonly used in the industry, such as accounting and customer relationship management (CRM) tools proves to be invaluable to rental companies in the current scenario; as this integration ensures a smooth flow of information across the organisation, reducing the need for manual data entry and minimising the risk of errors. The ability to barcode and RFID track equipment further enhances this efficiency, allowing for quick and accurate scanning and tracking of assets across multiple locations and events.

Similarly, equipment maintenance and condition tracking are equally important aspects of inventory management that can significantly impact a company’s operations. Regular wear and tear, damage during transport or use, and the need for timely repairs all necessitate a robust maintenance management system with proactive and reactive service and repair modules that provide rental companies with the tools needed to efficiently manage these processes. By keeping detailed records of equipment maintenance and repair history, companies can ensure that their inventory remains in optimal condition, reducing downtime and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Beyond these operational benefits, data analytics capabilities offer a powerful tool for strategic decision-making. By capturing and analysing a wealth of data on daily operations, users can gain deep insights into their business performance in terms of identifying areas of improvement, optimising resource allocation, and developing more effective inventory and logistics strategies. In an industry where margins are often thin and competition is intense, the ability to make data-driven decisions can provide a significant competitive advantage.

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in the live event industry, with companies looking for ways to reduce waste, optimise transport, and extend the lifecycle of their equipment. Rental software need to support these efforts by providing tools that enable companies to maximise the use of their owned equipment, track and manage repairs more effectively, and optimise logistics to reduce unnecessary transport and handling. This not only helps companies reduce their environmental footprint but also aligns with the growing demand from clients for more sustainable business practices.

However, to ensure that users can fully leverage the benefits of such platforms, it is essential that they have access to timely and comprehensive support, training, and resources. Offering not just technical support but also strategic guidance based on industry best practices culminates in a holistic approach that ensures users are well-equipped to maximise the value of their investment in such platforms, while driving operational improvements and business growth for themselves.

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With these critical aspects in mind, we spoke to Vikram Khosla, VP of Business Development & Strategic Alliances at Unique Business Systems, to gain deeper insights into the unique capabilities of their R2 platform, and how it is revolutionising logistics and inventory management for live event equipment rental service providers.

What are some of the most common challenges live event equipment rental companies face in logistics and inventory management, and how does R2 address these issues?

In a capital-intensive industry such as the live event equipment rental segment, the number one priority is optimizing and maximizing physical and financial utilization of equipment. With R2, companies use their owned inventory to the maximum while reducing unnecessary sub hire and capital expense costs. R2 also helps to minimize another high-cost area which is labour. R2’s Labour planning and scheduling enables quick and easy allocation of crew assignments to various jobs.

In your experience, does seasonal fluctuations or unexpected changes in event schedules affect inventory management, and can R2 help mitigate these challenges?

Yes, they do; and yes, R2 definitely can. Knowing the location, status and availability of each piece of equipment in your inventory is mission critical. With R2, you keep a finger on the pulse of your inventory and use that business intelligence to make better decisions on a daily basis.

Please tell us about some of R2’s key features that specifically cater to the needs of live event equipment rental service providers? What kind of impact does this have on operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness for users?

R2 provides a user configurable software solution for optimizing and enhancing daily equipment management and rental operations. Companies are able to configure the software to meet their process needs while also using global best practices to learn new and better ways to increase profitability. And from an overall value perspective R2 users benefit greatly in terms of operational productivity and enhanced cost efficiency thanks to the host of industry leading features that the platform provides. For example, R2 users have access to comprehensive, real-time, multi-site, inventory control and management that affords effective shortage resolution with sub hires, transfers and capital expense purchases. At the same time, R2 provides a single platform for users to have complete control over key business components such purchase orders, billing and invoicing, labour planning, service and repair, CRM and more. And by offering real-time reports, alerts and notifications, along with a mobile-based app with features such as designated role-based usage – R2 ensures that users are always updated with accurate data to make better business decisions.

Does R2 integrate with other software or technologies commonly used by live event equipment rental companies? If yes, how does this enhance overall workflow efficiency?

R2 has a comprehensive set of APIs and has been interfaced with scores of 3rd party software for a seamless integration specific to a company’s business requirements. R2 is also barcode and RFID ready. Our technology stack enables us to integrate with any software or technology based on a customer’s needs.

How does R2 handle the maintenance and tracking of equipment condition over time, ensuring that rental companies can efficiently manage wear and tear or damage across their inventory?

R2 offers both, proactive and reactive, service and repair of equipment. Creation of service tickets, moving equipment in and out of availability and tracking costs and frequency of repairs is all part of the R2 benefit suite.

What role does data analytics play in R2, and how can users leverage this to make informed decisions regarding their logistics and inventory management strategies?

R2 captures a ton of data regarding all aspects of your daily operations. Managers analyse this data, understand it and apply corrective actions where needed. Enhancing business intelligence is one or R2’s “raison d'etre”(reason for being).

Does R2 support sustainability efforts within the live event industry, particularly in reducing waste, optimizing transport, or extending the lifecycle of equipment?

Yes, R2 enables companies to maximize use of owned equipment, better and pro-active service and repair tracking leading to longer life cycles and also optimizing containers and transportation needs for specific orders. All this helps sustainability across multiple areas.

In a nutshell; what according to you are the unique selling points (USPs) that sets R2 apart from competitors in the live event logistics and inventory management space?

If I have to be concise, I’d say R2 is a truly comprehensive equipment management business tool that has been built on over 40 years of industry and 5000+ users feedback and experience to now offer a flexible software tool that enables companies to use as per their “unique” needs. And R2’s continued commitment towards global best practices, today and for the future as technology and business needs evolve; is what will continue to fuel its growth and acceptance world-wide.

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In celebration of our 40th anniversary as the leading software solution partner for the rental industry, we're excited to introduce the enhancements made to our brand. Our company is evolving, introducing new products, and modules, and our new, modern brand reflects that change. Take a look at our enhanced image here at UBS.

To deepen our commitment to our customers success, UBS is pleased to announce the expansion of our global support with a new technical support office in Elland, UK. This expansion of UBS Support bolsters our team of highly skilled professionals, bringing additional talent to meet the mission-critical needs of our worldwide family of R2 Users.

We are excited to build even stronger partnerships with our customers. Our goal for 2024 and beyond is to have >90% of all incoming calls responded to by a live support technician. This direct communication leads to faster resolutions.

Additionally, you will be provided frequent status updates of open tickets reducing your need to follow-up. Your time is valuable, and it is our job to keep you informed helping you stay focused on your core business success. Let us take care of you!

Los Angeles, CA. Winston-Salem, NC. Unique Business Systems (UBS), a leading provider of enterprise rental operations management software for the Audio-Visual industry and Beam Dynamics (Beam), an enterprise asset management technology provider for the media industry, today announced a partnership that brings the Beam Asset Intelligence Platform to UBS customers utilizing the R2 Software. The platform provides R2 customers with enhanced product data and access to Beams dynamic product library.

The integration between Beam and R2 builds upon the solid foundation and customer partnerships that UBS has earned through 35+ years of successful inventory management software deployments. R2 runs rental operations in some of the largest and globally well-respected Pro-AV and production companies. This partnership will extend the benefit portfolio of R2 and bring a dynamic data solution to all existing R2 customers through an integration.

Beams Asset Intelligence Platform™ is an enterprise asset management solution with built-in data. Companies upload a list of their hardware and software inventory, and Beam provides dynamic up-to-date information on firmware updates, documentation, and detailed asset history in a common user interface. The platform boasts data from over 5,000 manufacturers, covering a majority of broadcast and production vendors.

This partnership enhances the R2 customer experience by ensuring that A/V companies have access to the latest information about their assets, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding upgrades, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

“We are thrilled to take yet another huge step forward in inventory management and optimization through our partnership with Beam Dynamics” states Vic Khosla, Vice President, Business Development at UBS. “We partner with hundreds of the most progressive production organizations in the world and know that this will make a positive impact to their inventory operations”.

“UBS has gained the respect as the premiere inventory management platform in our industry, and we are thrilled to solidify this partnership” states David Kaszycki, Beam Dynamics CEO. “The partnership is a clear win-win and will bring Beam Asset Intelligence into the hands of thousands of users of R2.

About Unique Business Systems
In 1984 UBS launched a software suite to revolutionize the audio-visual rental market. Our vision was simple: provide leading software solutions to meet our customers unique rental needs. Today we are a global leader in the rental software industry. Our R2 software provides comprehensive benefits to help you control and manage all aspects of your daily rental operations. It is built on a solid foundation of over 35+ years of experience and feedback from the global audio visual rental industry. More information about Unique Business Systems is available at unibiz.com

About Beam Dynamics
Beam Dynamics is an enterprise asset management platform with built-in data. Beams Asset Intelligence Platform™ is the industrys first solution to dynamically manage all aspects of an assets lifecycle from purchase to management to the end of life. Beam has been deployed at some of the largest broadcast and production environments in the world, providing engineers a purpose-built tool to effectively manage their critical technology infrastructure. More information about Beam Dynamics is available at beamdynamics.io

Download the Press Release

Unique Business Systems (UBS), a Volaris Group company, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Patrick Stephens as the company’s General Manager, effective immediately. With his impressive track record in the rental and construction industries, Patrick brings a wealth of experience and expertise to drive technological innovation and further enhance UBS’s position as a leader in the market.

Prior to joining Unique Business Systems, Patrick served as the Vice President of Product at Wynne Systems, a renowned global provider of Rental Software solutions. Throughout his career, Patrick has demonstrated an unparalleled understanding of the rental industry, encompassing various segments such as small tools, major construction equipment, aerial pump, power, general rental and specialty rental. Notability, during his tenure as the Chief Technology Officer of United Rentals, Patrick played a role in the company’s growth from 1 location to 750 locations in the space of a little over three years.

Following his successful stint at united Rentals, Patrick embarked on a consulting journey, assisting numerous organizations in the rental industry to leverage technology effectively. He then assumed the role of Chief Information Officer at Rain for Rent, where he spearheaded strategic technological initiatives for several years. Subsequently, Patrick joined Kennards Hire as their General Manager of IT, further solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader in the industry.

In his new role as General Manager of Unique Business Systems, Patrick will leverage his profound understanding of technology and its application to the rental and construction sectors. He aims to drive UBS’s growth by spearheading ground-breaking technological advancements, enhancing the customer experience, and optimizing operation efficiency.

Download the Press Release

Labor planning and scheduling is a critical operational need for any organization. As labor costs rise and resource availability becomes scarce, it is imperative to manage labor resources in the most time and cost efficient manner. This is where the labor planning module for R2 helps you maximize both, physical and financial utilization of your labor resources. Announcing the upcoming release of Labor Planning with an enhanced UI/UX designed for an easier, smoother user experience - coming May month end release.

Some of the Highlights include:

Balance of elements for easier interaction

White space for visual equilibrium

Optimal web font and sizes for maximum readability

Conscientious use of colors for hierarchy and attention

Less lines for an inviting clutter-free UI

Flyover grid on booking lines has been replaced with an on-demand alphabetical menu