Established in 1985 and based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Pathway designs and manufactures electronics that enable lighting control systems to communicate with intelligent lighting fixtures and power devices, even when those products utilize different communications protocols. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed and the acquisition is not expected to materially impact Acuity Brands future consolidated financial results.
Pathway is strategically positioned at the intersection between architectural and entertainment lighting. Its established management team and product portfolio support a diverse customer base, and serve a broad range of applications from auditoriums and conference rooms to theatre and television, theme parks, cruise ships and concert tours. Pathway's product portfolio provides interoperability solutions for sophisticated lighting control systems. These real-time applications demand the highest degree of network reliability and performance in order to deliver spectacular visual experiences for live audiences as well as occupants in dynamic architectural environments.
"The technology and products of Pathway enable lighting solutions that are rapidly encompassing sophisticated lighting networks," said Vernon J. Nagel, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Acuity Brands. "The Pathway team brings advanced networking products and engineering capabilities to Acuity Brands that fits into our strategy of expanding the opportunities associated with integrating lighting and controls solutions. We welcome this talented team to the Acuity Brands family."
"For over 25 years, we have stretched the realm of the possible, integrating disparate lighting and controls systems for demanding theatrical and 'architainment' customers," said Dave Higgins, Pathway founder, president and CEO. "We are excited to join an industry leader and begin integrating our skills and intellectual property in order to expand the market opportunity as part of Acuity Brands."
Pathway will make its debut as part of Acuity Brands at the LDI2011 Trade Show and Conference at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando later this month.
(Jim Evans)
