United Felts to acquire German manufacturer BKP

Martinsville-based United Felts, which makes materials used to repair underground pipes, announced last week it has acquired German manufacturer BKP Berolina Polyester, which develops advanced composite and ultraviolet-cured-in-place pipe-liner technology.

The financial terms were not disclosed, and United Felts did not immediately return a request for comment. United Felts said the acquisition will expand its global manufacturing platform and enhance its offerings in cured-in-place pipes and advanced composite liner systems.

Founded in 1959 and headquartered in Velten, Germany, BKP makes the Berolina-Liner System, which allows sewer pipes to be repaired from the inside without digging.

“For nearly 30 years, BKP has been focused on advancing UV CIPP liner technology and supporting customers with a reliable, high-quality solution,” BKP CEO Thomas Christiansen said in a statement. “Joining United Felts creates new opportunities for innovation, broader market reach and continued investment in the products and services our customers rely on.”

A news release did not specifically state what roles BKP’s leadership would play in the combined company or how many employees or locations would be obtained through the acquisition.

“This acquisition significantly expands our ability to serve the market with one of the most comprehensive liner portfolios in the industry,” United Felts President Matt Timberlake said in his statement. “By bringing together United Felts’ leadership and manufacturing expertise with BKP’s advanced composite and UV CIPP expertise, we are better positioned to support customers globally with proven solutions across a broader range of rehabilitation applications.”

A division of Houston-based Vortex, United Felts was formed in 2024 through the consolidation of several liner manufacturing businesses, including operations in Martinsville established in 1997. The company has more than 100,000 liners in service and has manufactured 200 million feet of tube. Vortex has 17 locations worldwide and more than 800 employees.