Viking Group will not retain ownership of any portion of the VES business. Kentec will do business under its own name and the "VES" acronym going forward. With Viking Group's exit from the alarm and detection market, the company will focus on its core competencies in the fire
sprinkler industry.

Through this asset purchase, Kentec has significantly broadened its range of products and services for the fire alarm and detection market. "The synergy between Kentec's core strength as a component manufacturer and VES' system and software technology will significantly enhance our value proposition globally with customers," said Kentec president Ray King.

"Kentec and Viking have similar reputations for quality and service. This is an excellent combination, and we are confident that both Kentec and former VES customers will be well served in the future," added Tom Groos, Viking Group chairman.