Viega Acquires Vanguard

Viega (USA) acquired the piping systems businesses of Vanguard Piping Systems and Midtec Inc., effective Sept. 28.

Viega NA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Viega GmbH & Co. KG, has been active in North America since 1999, focusing on the commercial and residential plumbing and heating industries. Viega NA brands include ProPress® copper piping systems and ProRadiant™ and PureFlow™ PEX heating and plumbing systems, which are marketed and sold primarily through the plumbing wholesale channel to contractors and builders.

The Vanguard companies design and manufacture proprietary water distribution systems, hydronic radiant heating systems, and precision fittings in the United States. Vanguard and Midtec's branded product offerings are based on the patented MANABLOC water distribution systems, Vanex ULTRA cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing and CRIMPSERT fittings and accessories.

Left to right: John Fraser, president of Vanguard Piping Systems; Walter Viegener, owner of Viega; W. Keith Swinehart II, owner of Vanguard; Heinz-Bernd Viegener, owner of Viega; Dan Schmierer, chairman/CEO of Viega North American Cos.
This acquisition extends Viega's reach into specific product categories (i.e., PEX tubing) and will assist in solidifying its position in the U.S. radiant heating sector.

“Not only does Vanguard offer Viega an excellent distribution platform, Vanguard employees are viewed as a critical asset to Viega's future success,” said Dan Schmierer, Viega president.

Viega GmbH & Co. KG (Viega), based in Attendorn, Germany, has been in business more than 100 years. Viega is a family-owned business which employs more than 2,000 people, manufactures more than 12,000 products and operates four large factories in Germany. Viega is a market leader in Europe and is active in more than 70 countries worldwide, the company said.