Runco, arguably the high-end projection television
brand, has been acquired by Beaverton, Oregon-based Planar Systems in a cash
deal worth $36.7 million.
Sam and Laurie Runco founded Runco International in 1987 though the Runco brand
goes back to the 1970s. In 1972, Sam used a fresnel lens to magnify the picture
from a 15-inch television. Today the company is a favorite among videophiles
and custom installers.
Among the company's first products was the Runco International HT, which
stood for home theater, a term Sam is believed to have coined. He trademarked
the phrase home theater in 1990.
Runco made a name for itself in CRT-based front-projection systems and the
company's tube-based products are still regarded as the gold standard in video
projection. However, Runco also lent a hand in developing DLP projection
technology and has marketed LCD projectors, plasmas, video processors, and
other products.
Runco will become one of the parent company's three brands, in addition to
Planar and Vidikron.
"Sam Runco and his wife Laurie will remain attached to our hip as they
always have been as consultants for the business in multiple fashions, from
brand to channel management, media relations and technology," Planar VP
Scott Hix told TWICE.
