Honeywell acquires majority stake in Fiplex

  • March 22, 2021
  • Steve Rogerson

Honeywell is buying a majority stake in Fiplex Communications, a Miami-based company that develops in-building communications systems.

Fiplex technology includes bi-directional amplifiers that provide continuous and critical in-building radio coverage in challenging environments to improve the safety of first responders and building occupants.

The acquisition will expand the in-building connectivity and communications that Honeywell provides to its customers. Fiplex’s products could become a platform of innovation for Honeywell wireless technologies.

The building communications industry is a fast-growing segment, largely driven by the adoption of enhanced fire codes. Its growth is expected to accelerate with the adoption of technologies that will continue to change how building data are exchanged with various stakeholders.

“We are looking to reshape how communications and connectivity within buildings work,” said Vimal Kapur, chief executive officer of Honeywell Building Technologies. “The addition of Fiplex’s products and software allows us to move towards creating the next generation of fire and life safety to keep both building occupants and first responders safer. The Fiplex team brings superior engineering talent and unique capabilities for wireless communications that will enable us to enhance our in-building communications offerings.”

According to a 2017 International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) survey by the Safer Buildings Coalition, 56% of fire departments have experienced a communications failure in a building during an emergency event, leaving fire fighters and other first responders virtually stranded in these situations after losing communications.

In-building communications systems, such as those from Fiplex, enable first responders to stay connected throughout a building that may have a poor cellular signal due to Low-E glass windows, energy-saving cladding or wall composition, and even in underground areas such as car parks. In-building communications can also support occupant safety with timely, clear and accurate notifications of emergencies and recommended responses.

“Honeywell has long demonstrated leadership in the fire and life safety industry, and we are pleased to join their team,” said Matias de Goycoechea, chief technology officer of Fiplex. “We look forward to working with Honeywell to expand our technological advancements and to support the creation of better-connected buildings.”

Fiplex’s Flex is a flexible and scalable in-building wireless platform that delivers performance, survivability and deployment efficiency to meet the requirements of public safety stakeholders. Flex addresses performance and complexity challenges inherent to complying with stringent critical communications code requirements mandated by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) as well as economic barriers that encumber providers from widescale penetration.

Flex products are UL2524 second edition listed with SGS, a nationally recognised testing laboratory approved by Osha for UL2524.

Terms of the investment were not disclosed, and there is no change to Honeywell’s financial outlook as a result of the acquisition. The acquisition is pending customary deal closing conditions.