Canada: Controlled Environments (Conviron) acquires Argus Controls

Controlled Environments Ltd. (Conviron) announced the acquisition of Argus Control Systems Ltd. (Argus) of White Rock, British Columbia. The acquisition brings together Conviron - the world leader in controlled environments for agricultural research - with Argus - the North American leader in advanced automated control systems for greenhouses and other horticultural applications. The integration will provide researchers and growers with more flexibility and increasingly powerful tools, and in so doing drive growth for both organizations in the plant science and biotechnology sectors. “Argus is well-known in North America for its innovative and robust control systems,” said Steve Kroft, President and CEO at Conviron. “With the Argus platform, we have extended our capability to offer sophisticated pre-engineered and customized control solutions that meet the increasingly demanding research applications and facility management requirements of our clients.”

For decades, Conviron plant growth chambers and rooms have been chosen by many of the same leading agricultural research centers that have used Argus controls for their research greenhouses. “With our new relationship, we will be able to supply integrated control systems that will enable clients to manage their entire facility – from tissue culture and plant growth chambers to greenhouses and building systems – all on a single platform,” commented Bill Mukanik, Vice President Client Services at Conviron.

Not only does the acquisition of Argus provide Conviron with new technology for its controlled environments, it also provides the Winnipeg-based company with access to the commercial horticulture industry where the opportunity for growth is significant. The deal also enhances diversification opportunities into water treatment, aquaculture and energy data management where the Argus platform has already demonstrated its value to clients.

Under the new ownership structure, Argus will leverage Conviron’s sales and distribution network to extend its access to new clients, especially in international markets where Conviron has been long-established. In addition, both organizations will have the capacity to continue aggressive, coordinated product development programs that respond to specific client needs and anticipate market requirements.

Argus will function as an independent business unit maintaining its distinct brand and continuing operations at its current location. Alec and Marlene Mackenzie, founders of Argus, will continue in advisory roles to ensure a smooth transition for Argus employees and clients. “We’ve known Conviron for many years and we recognized long ago a similar passion and dedication to serving our clients,” said Mackenzie. “Our business values are similar and our clients overlap. Both Argus and Conviron clients will benefit from the synergies of this deal.”