Rite-Hite is getting considerably bigger in fabric HVAC ventilation.

The Milwaukee-based company has acquired KE Fibertec Group, a Danish manufacturer specializing in textile-based ventilation systems.

The acquisition was originally announced by Rite-Hite on August 13 and received renewed U.S. coverage over the weekend. Financial terms have not been disclosed. 

Rite-Hite Already Owns DuctSox

That is what makes this transaction particularly relevant to HVAC.

Rite-Hite already operates the DuctSox fabric-air-distribution business.

KE Fibertec is another major manufacturer of textile-based ventilation systems.

Rite-Hite says the combination strengthens its position in fabric HVAC ductwork while expanding its presence in Europe. 

KE Fibertec Is Already International

The company employs roughly 160 people across eight subsidiaries, including operations in:

  • Denmark
  • Czech Republic
  • United States

Four of those subsidiaries include production facilities. 

KE Fibertec will continue operating from its existing facilities under local management.

Why Fabric Duct Is Important

Traditional sheet-metal ductwork still dominates HVAC.

But textile systems have found growing applications where contractors and engineers value:

Low weight.

Air-distribution flexibility.

Large-space coverage.

Reduced condensation issues.

Architectural appearance.

Ease of installation.

They are particularly visible in commercial, industrial, food, sports and manufacturing environments.

A More Concentrated HVAC Category

Rite-Hite described itself as already being a dominant participant in textile-based HVAC solutions through DuctSox.

Buying another established manufacturer gives it additional technology, customers and geographic reach. 

That makes the deal more important than a generic diversification acquisition.

It is consolidation directly inside an HVAC air-distribution category.

Contractor Takeaway

Contractors specifying fabric air distribution may increasingly encounter a broader Rite-Hite portfolio and shared expertise across the two businesses.

No specific pricing or distribution changes have been announced.

But when an owner of one major fabric-duct brand acquires another established textile-ventilation manufacturer, the competitive landscape of that HVAC niche changes immediately.