The global financial crisis continues to have an impact on the broadcast equipment manufacturing sector with Quantel the latest company to announce that it will not be exhibiting at NAB this year.

Having already decided to reduce head count, the Newbury-based developer of finishing, colour correction, stereoscopic 3D post and news/sport production systems has now announced that it will not be exhibiting at the industry's biggest trade exhibition.

Quantel chief executive Ray Cross said: “It's not a decision that we've come to without a great deal of thought. However in the current general economic climate we quite simply can't justify the $1million plus investment. Not going will allow R&D to focus fully on delivering for our customers. This year delivery, not marketing, comes first.”

The company will continue to run roadshows and make regular visits to Quantel users.

It will also have a presence at Broadcast Video Expo (17-19 February, Earls Court 2) this month where it is sponsoring the bar and partnering with Megahertz to showcase desks and furniture for broadcasters.

Quantel is not the first company to announce non-attendance at NAB. Red Digital Cinema and Apple have both opted out this year.