Where Did the Time Go?
DQ began as a design-focused service business, built on practical thinking and a desire to solve problems properly. Not long after, the direction of the company shifted in a way that would define its future. A chance meeting with Roland Sollner, a highly respected UK designer, introduced me to a concept that was not common at the time—display truss.
Roland had developed what became known as MEC Truss, and it proved to be a turning point. What started as an introduction quickly became the foundation for a new direction, as Design Quintessence moved into truss manufacturing and hire. That evolution wasn’t part of a grand plan – it grew from recognising something that worked, and committing to doing it well.
Roland is no longer with us, but his influence remains significant. His work and thinking helped shape not only the early direction of the business, but also a lasting interest in truss and staging systems that continues to this day.
A Philosophy of Classic Service
I’ve never been one to map out a career or follow a rigid plan. From the outset, the goal was straightforward – build a business that continually strives to do better and delivers the highest level of service possible. Three decades on, that remains unchanged. It’s still our focus. “Classic service”. We do what we say we’ll do. Solve problems. Make things happen. Stand behind what we do. We’re far from perfect, but we are always trying to be better.
Expanding Horizons: Global Truss and Beyond
Today, DQ is the second largest distributor globally, behind Europe, which was a springboard for expanding our distribution network. Since then, we’ve proudly taken on several other now well-established brands, including Encore cases, Curtain Call, and VMB, helping bring world-class products to Australia and supporting our customers with comprehensive solutions.
Another major step for Design Quintessence came in 2004, when we became the Australian distributor for a new truss brand called Global Truss.
Founded in the Netherlands by a team of international partners, Global Truss has grown to become one of the top five truss manufacturers in the world.
Highlights and Gratitude
There have been many highlights along the way. We’ve built strong, lasting relationships with our suppliers and continue to collaborate on new product developments every week. Staff come and go, but every single team member has contributed enormously to DQ, and I am especially grateful to those who have been with us for 10–20 years—you know who they are. And of course, to our customers—we’ve had the pleasure and privilege of supplying so many businesses around Australia. I am often in awe of the hard work you do and the dedication you show to your own customers. Your commitment inspires us to keep striving for the highest standards in everything we do.
Some of our most rewarding projects have included creative truss designs, innovative road case solutions, and developing new products that our suppliers have gone on to sell around the world. More recently, we’ve achieved our largest sales of truss and cases ever – extending well beyond the traditional production market and reaching industries that were previously untapped. These projects demonstrate the practical problem-solving and innovation that continue to drive Design Quintessence forward.
Consistency Across Decades
Over the past 30 years, Design Quintessence has grown alongside the industries we serve. While technologies, standards, and expectations have changed, our approach has remained consistent: practical, reliable solutions delivered with care.
Reaching 30 years is also a reflection of the relationships built along the way. Many of our clients and partners have worked with us over long periods, and that continuity is something we value highly. It speaks to a shared understanding of what matters – and I repeat – “classic service”.
Thank You
To everyone who has been part of the journey—clients, partners, and our team—thank you. Your support has made the past 30 years possible.
