Kenall Lighting Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1963 in Chicago, Illinois, Kenall Lighting has established itself as a premier provider of durable and high-quality lighting solutions tailored for demanding environments. The company's mission is to deliver intelligent, durable, and sustainable lighting solutions that meet the stringent requirements of specialized applications. Kenall's vision emphasizes innovation and excellence in serving sectors such as healthcare, transportation, food processing, cleanrooms, and correctional facilities. In 2014, the company relocated its headquarters to a 354,000-square-foot, vertically integrated manufacturing facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin, enhancing its production capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing.

Key Strategic Focus

Kenall's strategic focus centers on developing lighting solutions for specialized applications that demand high performance and reliability. The company specializes in sectors including healthcare, transportation, high-abuse environments, food processing, cleanrooms, and correctional facilities. By leveraging advanced technologies such as Solid State Lighting (SSL) and integrated control systems, Kenall aims to provide energy-efficient and sustainable products. The primary markets targeted include commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings, with a particular emphasis on environments requiring durable and certified lighting solutions.

Financials and Funding

In December 2018, Kenall was acquired by Legrand North and Central America, a subsidiary of the French multinational Legrand. This acquisition aimed to expand Legrand's presence in the specialty and architectural lighting segments. Following the acquisition, Kenall continues to operate as an independently managed entity, maintaining its focus on specialized lighting solutions.

Pipeline Development

Kenall has a robust pipeline of innovative products designed to meet the evolving needs of its target markets. Recent developments include:

MedMaster and Millenium Saturn™ Series: Introduced in May 2025, these luminaires offer synchronous or dual light engines with a broad color palette, suitable for behavioral health and high-abuse settings.

SimpleSeal CSSGI and MedMaster BHRT: Selected for the IES 2024 Progress Report, these products cater to cleanroom and behavioral health environments, respectively.

M4 Indigo-Clean EX Surgical Suite Luminaire: Enhanced with KORE technology in July 2024, this product provides improved lens uniformity and glare control, crucial for surgical settings.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Kenall distinguishes itself through proprietary technologies and innovative methodologies:

Indigo-Clean Technology: A visible light disinfection system that continuously and safely eliminates harmful bacteria, including MRSA and C. diff, without the use of chemicals.

KORE Technology: The Kenall Optical Radiance Engine enhances lens uniformity and controls glare, essential for environments like surgical suites.

TekLink™ Lighting Control Systems: Offering a range of options designed to meet various applications, these systems provide advanced sensors and networked communications for efficient lighting management.

Leadership Team

Kenall's leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the company's mission:

Jim Hawkins: Chairman and CEO, instrumental in the company's growth and strategic direction.

Pat Marry: President, overseeing operations and reporting directly to the CEO of Legrand North and Central America.

Leadership Changes

Following the acquisition by Legrand in December 2018, Jim Hawkins transitioned to an advisory role, while Pat Marry continued as President, ensuring continuity in leadership and operations.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The lighting industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in LED technology and increasing demand for energy-efficient solutions. The specialty lighting segment, in particular, is expanding as industries seek tailored solutions for unique environments.

Competitor Analysis

Kenall faces competition from several companies in the lighting industry:

Revolution Lighting Technologies, Inc.: Specializes in LED lighting solutions for commercial, industrial, and government markets.

MaxLite: Offers energy-efficient lighting products, including LED fixtures and lamps, serving various sectors.

Neptun Light, Inc.: Provides a range of lighting solutions, focusing on LED and induction lighting technologies.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Kenall's acquisition by Legrand has facilitated strategic collaborations, enabling the integration of advanced IoT capabilities and expanding the company's reach in the lighting market. This partnership enhances Kenall's ability to deliver innovative and comprehensive lighting solutions.

Operational Insights

Kenall's vertically integrated manufacturing facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin, allows for efficient production and quality control. The company's commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing ensures compliance with the Buy American Act, appealing to clients seeking domestically produced products.