Johnson Controls announced Wednesday that it has reached an agreement with a Canadian pension board to purchase Air Distribution Technologies for approximately $1.6 billion.

The company’s major HVAC market brands include Ruskin, Titus, Hart & Cooley, Krueger, PennBarry and Tuttle & Bailey. Products range from grilles, registers, and diffusers to terminal units; fire and smoke dampers and fans.

"This investment expands Johnson Controls' position in the buildings space with additional products that are complementary to our existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning offerings," said Alex Molinaroli, Johnson Controls chairman and chief executive officer. "It reflects our stated commitment to invest in the buildings business as a growth platform and further enhances our offerings and channels."

Customers will benefit from the merger, Molinaroli added.

"Air Distribution Technologies customers will have undisrupted access to the products and brands that they have come to expect,” he said. “This new channel will provide an important growth platform for Johnson Controls as we continue to pursue additional investments in new products and increase our market coverage worldwide.”

Air Distribution Products will be operated under Johnson Controls’ building efficiency division, and will have its own distributors and management team, officials said.

"Johnson Controls is a leader in the building technology industry that will complement our strong brands and valued relationships," said Air Distribution Technologies CEO Terry O'Halloran. "Our customers will now have access to an unmatched portfolio of products and offerings as well as backing and continued innovation from the best experts in the industry."  

The sale is expected to be completed by the end of July.