Vanco International yesterday shared that owner Brad Corbin has died. Corbin studied engineering at Georgia Tech; he joined Vanco as president in 1999 and acquired the company in 2007, spearheading its transition from a regional distributor to a trusted global provider of professional audiovisual equipment. He was 78.
The company’s origins lie in delivering audio, video and electronic accessories directly by van to midwestern dealers and distributors. Corbin embraced this commitment to personal service, as well as a genuine passion for audiovisual technology and experiences.
Corbin was instrumental in the development of the Vanco global sales network. In 2000, when the company was still a relatively small regional company, he secured a place for Vanco as an Ace Hardware Vendor. Corbin deeply valued the relationships he built through Ace, leveraging them to grow the company and build a product portfolio that was responsive to global industry needs.
How Did Brad Corbin Grow and Change Vanco?
Corbin helped guide the company through decades of growth and industry change. Under his leadership, Vanco was one of the first companies to introduce HDMI cables into the U.S. market. He laid the foundation for the introduction of Evolution, Vanco’s curated line of professional AV distribution products, as well as PulseAudio, the company’s audio accessories line. In 2017, Corbin led Vanco’s acquisition of Beale Street, expanding Vanco’s offerings to include internationally recognized premium audio products. Thanks to Corbin’s stewardship, Vanco transformed into an award-winning AV distribution and audio solutions manufacturer serving customers around the world.
In 2018, Brad passed day-to-day leadership of Vanco to his son, Mark Corbin. He remained actively involved in the company as CEO until his death.
“My father’s commitment to the audiovisual industry was lifelong. He built the culture of service, innovation, and ambition that drives Vanco today,” said Mark Corbin, president of Vanco International. “He was a model leader at Vanco and an even better father and grandfather. I will always be grateful for the legacy he built.”
A Live Well Lived
Brad Corbin loved fishing and golfing near his home on Amelia Island, Fla., as well as spending time with his family. He reveled in being a grandfather and will be remembered for his sense of humor, his larger-than-life personality and his heart.
Brad Corbin is survived by his wife of 49 years, Susan Corbin; his son Matthew Corbin and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Corbin; and son Mark Corbin, daughter-in-law Lindsey Corbin, and grandchildren Chloe, Ava, and Hayden Corbin. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many partners and customers whose lives he touched throughout his career.
