Aliaxis - Experts & Thought Leaders

Aliaxis SA, a world pioneer in enabling access to water and energy through innovative fluid management solutions, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the manufacturing assets of the Johnson Controls CPVC pipe and fittings business for residential and light commercial sprinkler systems. This acquisition affirms the commitment to the North American growth strategy. Aliaxis is bolstering its product range with a more comprehensive portfolio of fire suppression systems for residential and light commercial applications. The acquisition will be part of IPEX, Aliaxis's renowned brand in the region. Expands Aliaxis’ presence This acquisition further expands Aliaxis’ presence in the Southern United States Located in Huntsville, Alabama, this acquisition further expands Aliaxis’ presence in the Southern United States. The 1985-established pipe and fittings business generates an annual revenue of approximately $100 m and employs over 100 people. Thierry Vanlancker, Manager Director of Aliaxis, says: "This acquisition makes great sense for us. It is another step in providing more complete customer solutions in our product portfolio across the United States and brings extra potential for Aliaxis." CPVC pipe and fittings team Alex Mestres, Aliaxis’ Divisional CEO Americas also comments: "We are thrilled to welcome the CPVC pipe and fittings team of Johnson Controls. This acquisition provides us with a unique opportunity to expand our offering and continue to be the partner of choice for our national customers." The deal is subject to customary closing conditions. Both parties anticipate the completion of the transaction over the coming weeks. The financial details of this acquisition will not be disclosed.

Steve Richmond, Head of Marketing and Technical at REHAU Building Solutions, has been appointed President of the British Plastics Federation’s (BPF) Pipes Group, taking over from Richard Hill of ACO Technologies. Steve had previously been the group’s Vice President for three years. In this role, he was responsible for chairing the organization’s Strategy group and its response to ongoing industry topics such as Brexit, supply chain strain, and COVID-19. Piping systems industry The BPF Pipes Group is a trade federation of the UK plastic piping systems industry and a member of the European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association (TEPPFA). It is dedicated to promoting the development, acceptance, and usage of manufactured plastic piping systems across the utilities, civil, building services, and construction industries. “I am thrilled to have been appointed the President of the British Plastic Federation’s Pipes Group at such a crucial time for multiple sectors,” comments Steve. “The use of plastic piping systems has skyrocketed in the past 50 years in all applications, and the BPF’s work as a prominent industry voice providing technical expertise and informing and influencing standards is more vital than ever before.” Driving further change Specifically, he is keen for the group to help drive further change around net-zero “It is my hope that as President and supported by our new Vice President, Rachel Smith of Aliaxis we can help the group play a key role in developing the high-quality products and solutions for future challenges.” One particular challenge Steve is focused on is emphasizing the sustainability credentials of plastic-based pipework systems and solutions. Specifically, he is keen for the group to help drive further change around net-zero, both in terms of the manufacturing footprint of plastic pipe manufacturers and their numerous applications in our journey to net-zero by 2050. Standards governing pipework “Continued innovation has established plastic as a viable material in improved performance over traditional materials whilst improving sustainability,” Steve concludes. “But more needs to be done to raise awareness of the benefits of plastic pipes and their applications.” “While change will not happen overnight, standards governing pipework will continue to evolve, and we as an industry need to look at how we can increase the use of recyclates in plastic pipe manufacturing. We are at the start of the journey here, and encouraging a circular economy of materials where possible will require buy-in from the many stakeholders in the industry. I hope my presidency can help in this ongoing shift.”