The Italian company has its UK base in Redditch, and was established in the 1950s. it manufactures its own classic Ianiro product line as well as distributing leading lighting brands primarily in the film, video, TV and photographic markets. They were looking to reduce the lead-time and shipping costs involved in sourcing certain flightcases from Italy, and so initially asked 5 Star to produce three different designs - all in their traditional Ianiro red colour.
5 Star's Dave Harris recommended that their 'Light Industrial' specification would suit the application, made to house different combinations of the tungsten lights. Ianiro's Nick Allen-Mills says: "We're really pleased with them. The cases are extremely strong and well made, and 5 Star can turn them around very fast."
The 'Light Industrial' case spec combines light weight and durability with its 6mm ply construction. A 30mm aluminum extrusion is utilised for exposed edge protection, a feature more commonly found on the heavier 'Industrial' range. Externally, the trunks are finished in a striking smart red laminate, with Ianiro's logo screen-printed directly on to the case.
The cases also feature a 'trolley style' wheel arrangement: these ball-race fitted wheels are made of a robust black nylon moulding, which, being low profile, do not greatly increase the overall dimensions of the case. Recessed flip handles at each end enable the case can be either carried or wheeled. Internally, polyethylene foam lined compartments ensure the best equipment protection.
After the success of the first three Ianiro designs, Mills says he expects to have 5 Star working on up to five or six different designs within the next three months.
(Lee Baldock)