Viessmann and the VELUX Group initiate close cooperation

As a result, the VELUX Group will hand over the distribution of solar hot water cylinders and solar control units in some markets, and Viessmann will co-distribute VELUX in-roof collectors along with their own products.

Viessmann, one of the leading international manufacturers of heating systems, has entered a partnership agreement with the VELUX Group, market leader in roof windows and other building components for the roof. VELUX solar collectors will now be paired with Viessmann DHW cylinders and control units.

"The new partnership broadens our comprehensive product range for all fuel types and areas of application. In addition to our existing flat-plate and vacuum tube collectors, we can also offer VELUX in-roof collectors with their aesthetic integration into the roof. We believe that this will strengthen sales in both companies," says Dr Thomas Schweisfurth, Chief Sales Officer at Viessmann.

"The VELUX Group's strength is on the roof, not in the utility room. If we are to meet our customers' demand for a wide range of high-quality DHW cylinders, costs will be disproportionately high. In order to be able to maintain our ability to offer the customer the best solution in solar thermal systems, we have chosen to form a partnership with a leading international manufacturer. We strongly believe that the best solution, aesthetical as well as functional, consists of VELUX in-roof solar collectors paired with Viessmann DHW cylinders and control units," says Jacob Schambye, Market Director of the VELUX Group.

The partnership agreement enables the VELUX Group to sell its in-roof solar thermal collectors and accessories through Viessmann's distribution channels. Viessmann DHW cylinders, control units and components will continue to be supplied and supported by Viessmann through its well-established sales network.

The agreement covers Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the UK, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. As a result of the new partnership, the VELUX Group will no longer sell DHW cylinders in these markets.

The partnership formally takes effect on 1 January 2012. Practical implementation is expected to be finished during the first half of 2012.

About the VELUX Group
The VELUX Group creates better living environments with daylight and fresh air through the roof. The VELUX product programme contains a wide range of roof windows and skylights, along with solutions for flat roofs. The Group also supplies many types of decoration and sun screening, roller shutters, installation products, products for remote control and thermal solar panels for installation in roofs. The VELUX Group, which has manufacturing companies in 11 countries and sales companies in just under 40 countries, represents one of the strongest brands in the global building materials sector and its products are sold in most parts of the world. The VELUX Group has about 10,000 employees and is owned by VKR Holding A/S, a limited company wholly owned by foundations and family. For more details, visit www.velux.com.

About Viessmann
The Viessmann Group is one of the leading international manufacturers of heating systems. Founded in 1917, the family business maintains a staff of approximately 9.400 employees and generates roughly 1.7 billion Euro in annual group turnover. With 23 production and project management divisions in 11 countries, business activities in 74 countries, 32 subsidiaries and 120 sales offices around the world, Viessmann is an internationally orientated company. 56 Percent of sales are derived from export activities. For more details, visit www.viessmann.com.