Wienerberger (Vienna; www.wienerberger.com), the world’s largest brick producer, said it signed an agreement to acquire Croatian piping solutions provider Vargon (Kukuljanovo; www.vargon.hr) in a deal that would enhance the Austrian company’s expertise in in-house installation systems in Southeastern Europe. Financial details of the deal, expected to close in 2022, were not disclosed. Goran Brasnic, current Vargon CEO and shareholder, is to retain a 20% stake in the company.

Vargo provides in-house solutions for water applications and water discharge systems within Croatia. Operating from its production site near Rijeka, the family-owned company reported revenues of EUR 24.4 mn in 2021. With its plastic pipes and fittings for water supply, Vargo has also reported strong growth in the infrastructure segment.

The acquisition complements Wienerberger’s position in infrastructure, water, and waste-water systems in Southeastern Europe. It is also expected to further strengthen Wienerberger’s position as a partner for the entire building envelope business in Europe, the company said.

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