03/06/2026
On this day in 1978, our founder Alan Black appeared on the front cover of the amusement industry's weekly bible, Coinslot International, announcing the launch of his new venture to provide a dedicated support service for German jukebox manufacturer N.S.M.
At the time, few could have imagined what Alan would achieve, or how quickly he would expand from offering a specialist support service to launching his own jukebox brand in 1980.
Forty-eight years later, our market has changed considerably. Today, we collaborate with some of the world's most iconic brands, and our handcrafted jukeboxes can be found in premier commercial venues and luxury private homes across the globe.
Most importantly, we still design and manufacture our jukeboxes in Leeds and continue to follow the same family values that started it all in 1978. At 80 years old, Alan remains actively involved in the day-to-day running of our third-generation family business, and his passion for quality and innovation continues to drive the company forward, with new product launches planned for later this month.
"Looking back through our archives reminds us just how remarkable this journey has been," said Chris Black, Joint Chairman of Sound Leisure. "We owe our longevity to our loyal customers, global distributors, trusted suppliers, and the innovation and dedication of our team members, past and present, who have shaped the Sound Leisure story."
