Samsung Electronics is setting its sights on significant growth in the global heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) market following its acquisition of Germany-based FlaktGroup. Completed in November of last year, the acquisition positions Samsung to leverage FlaktGroup’s longstanding expertise in HVAC solutions and expand its presence in this industry.
David Doheny, the newly appointed CEO of FlaktGroup, expressed ambitious plans for the company’s future under Samsung’s ownership. Speaking through Samsung Electronics Newsroom on Jan. 2, he stated, "Our clear vision is to become a global leader in the HVAC sector while continuing growth beyond 2026 together with Samsung Electronics." He highlighted the company’s long history, noting, "FlaktGroup’s origins date back to 1909", and emphasized its specialization in commercial and industrial building ventilation systems, cleanrooms, marine, and fire safety solutions.
FlaktGroup brings over 60 years of experience in data center cooling solutions, an area with growing global demand. "We have been providing related solutions for over 60 years and possess excellent solutions ranging from precision cooling to energy efficiency", said Doheny. He pointed out the company’s strengths, including its 14 global manufacturing facilities and a robust network of field-oriented after-sales (AS) engineer organizations, which enhance customer trust.
Looking ahead, Doheny identified several key trends driving growth in the HVAC market, including tightening energy efficiency regulations, rapid urbanization, increased demand for smart technology integration such as Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), and a growing focus on indoor air quality. He also noted rising demand for heat pumps as another contributor to market expansion, forecasting "meaningful market expansion will occur until 2035."
Doheny emphasized the potential synergies created through the partnership with Samsung, particularly in combining Samsung’s technology leadership with FlaktGroup’s HVAC expertise. For example, integrating FlaktGroup’s HVAC systems with Samsung’s SmartThings Pro platform and building integrated solutions could lead to advancements in energy management and smart building capabilities. "By combining FlaktGroup’s HVAC expertise with Samsung Electronics’ comprehensive technology leadership, we will be able to create smarter and more connected solutions", he said.
The company plans to focus on new product releases and enhancing smart connectivity, areas where Samsung’s technology is expected to play a pivotal role. Doheny cited expanded collaboration with Samsung, ongoing since 2025, as a key component of FlaktGroup’s future strategy.
FlaktGroup has outlined a multi-faceted investment strategy centered on technology, platform development, and production capabilities. Doheny highlighted plans to strengthen coolant distribution unit (CDU) technology, further develop the smart control platform ‘FlaktEdge,’ and increase research and development investments. One notable initiative is the establishment of a new production facility in Korea, scheduled for completion in 2026. "It will serve as a ‘standard model’ for future factories", said Doheny, adding that the factory will act as a stepping stone for expanding FlaktGroup’s presence throughout Asia.
Additional investments in production and field service capabilities are underway in India and the United States, where Doheny sees significant opportunities in the data center and building indoor environment sectors.
FlaktGroup has also committed to expanding the application of Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) to 95% of its product portfolio within this year. Other goals include the full launch of FlaktEdge and incorporating circular economy principles into product design and packaging processes.
With its integration into Samsung Electronics and a clear investment roadmap, FlaktGroup is positioning itself as a key player in the HVAC industry, aiming to capitalize on emerging trends and customer demand for smarter, more sustainable solutions. As Doheny noted, the combination of FlaktGroup’s expertise and Samsung’s innovations lays the foundation for a new era of growth in HVAC technologies.
