New Manufacturer Acquires Duct Systems Line

CROFTON, Md. — The UEP Group, a collection of HVAC manufacturing companies, has a new company in its portfolio, VaughanAir, which has acquired the DuraDuct line of advanced prefabricated duct systems from DuraSystems Barriers Inc.

The DuraDuct line includes the industry’s only patented rectangular two-, three-, and four-hour fire-rated ducts, kitchen exhaust ducts, high-performance dishwasher exhaust ducts, specialized laboratory exhaust ducts, and wall and ceiling panels for a wide range of applications.

With a unique and patented double-wall construction, this duct systems product line is lightweight and impact- and moisture-resistant. As a result, the system does not require additional wraps, is easier to install, and saves space due to its slim profile, a press release from The UEP Group said.

“We diligently pursued the acquisition of this business for the strategic opportunities it provides. Adding this unique manufacturing opportunity to our robust lineup of manufacturing rep firms and chimney installation businesses will help us expand our industry presence and provide opportunities for future growth,” said Frank Smollon, UEP Group CEO. “Our entire team is excited by this significant enhancement to our product offerings and the competitive edge this acquisition gives us.”

The DuraSystems representatives network in the US and Canada will remain in place, as will the sales presence that has been established in the Toronto area, the press release said. In the coming months, additional rep firms will be added to the network in the US and Canada. Product manufacturing will initially continue in the existing production facilities near Toronto, but will shift to a new, nearby updated facility later this year that is designed to increase capacity and improve production lead times, The UEP Group said.

“Now that this acquisition has been completed, our plan for growing this business begins with improving the customer experience throughout the customer purchasing cycle — from the initial estimate through product delivery. With this enhanced level of customer service, coupled with the quality product the industry has come to expect, we look forward to growing sales channels leading to deeper market penetration and greater success,” said John Davis, general manager at VaughanAir.