The SIM Group announced that it has reached an agreement in principle to merge with Hollywood-based Chainsaw. SIM supplies production equipment and specialized postproduction services to the film and television industry, while Chainsaw is an L.A.-based postproduction facility that specializes in unscripted and live event television. Upon completion of the merger, which is expected to close next month, Chainsaw will continue to operate under its current name as a unit of The SIM Group.
Founded in 1996 by Bill DeRonde, Chainsaw provides creative editorial, editorial finishing, color grading, visual effects and other services from its Hollywood facility. It also features a digital intermediate theater for feature film finishing and a large satellite facility with editorial systems and space available on a rental basis. Along with The Academy Awards and American Idol, its credits include So You Think You Can Dance, The Kennedy Center Honors, Teen Wolf, Real Husbands of Hollywood, Blackish, America’s Got Talent and The 25th Anniversary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Concert.
“Chainsaw’s robust services and diverse client base are very complementary to the services and clientele of SIM,” said James Martin, chief strategy officer, The SIM Group. “Uniting these two great companies enhances our ability to offer true, end-to-end service packages to film and television producers.”
“As the newest member of The SIM Group, we see many opportunities to further our growth and better serve our clients,” said DeRonde. “We are very excited to embark on this new chapter that will continue to allow us to offer the best possible product to our clients. We gain access to more resources and talent, as well as additional markets for our services.”
The SIM Group, founded by Rob Sim in 1982, is comprised of three operating units – SIM Digital, Bling Digital and PS Production Services that, respectively, provide camera and production equipment, postproduction technology and services, and lighting and grip gear. With offices in Los Angeles, Toronto, Vancouver, Atlanta, Halifax and Beijing, it services such shows as Fargo, Suits, Pacific Rim, Hell on Wheels and The Vampire Diaries.
SIM Group chief technology officer Chris Parker explained that the expansion is a direct response to demands from studios and other producers for comprehensive postproduction offerings.
“This merger bolsters our postproduction offering, enabling us to keep pace with our growing demand,” said Parker. “At the same time, we are very excited about the opportunity to introduce Chainsaw clients to a broader and more complete range of services.”
