New world market leader:
Minimax and Viking Merger
The new company has an integrated business model with complementary products and services offers for international customers from diverse sectors. Minimax is known for competency in installations, services and engineering as well as the complete range of fire protection systems – including gas-based and fire detection systems. The Viking Group is considered a market leader in the technology, production and distribution of sprinklers and related products. In total Viking is represented at more than 35 locations, approximately half of which of located in the USA. Important Viking products are sprinklers, valve stations, couplings and other mechanical components. In addition, the company operates twelve pipe pre-fabrication facilities, ten of which are also in North America.
Both companies complement each other geographically as well, thus providing the new group with greater market coverage.
According to Klaus Hofmann, CEO of Minimax, the merger creates a real global player with strong product, service and distribution skills. The basis is shaped by Minimax’s focus on installation and service as well as sophisticated non-water products. In contrast, the Viking Group’s emphasis is on the production and distribution of top quality water sprinklers and sprinkler systems. The new company with its expanded capacities will be even better positioned to use opportunities for growth not only in existing markets but also worldwide.
Klaus Hofmann will also head up management of the merged company, while Tom Groos, Chairman of the Viking Group, will head the advisory board. Existing shareholders will also be shareholders of the new company; IK Investment Partners thereby remains the largest shareholder. The new company will have its head office in Bad Oldesloe and employ a staff of around 6,000 worldwide.