Vipo Company Profile

Background

Vipo is a global leader in providing high-performance polymer solutions, specializing in corrosion, fire protection, and thermal insulation for demanding environments. Established in 1896 in Norway, Vipo has a rich history of over 125 years in polymer material technology. The company's mission is to deliver reliable solutions that ensure safety for people, the environment, and future generations. Vipo's vision is to be a pioneer in engineered polymer solutions, offering advanced and efficient protective systems across various industries.

Key Strategic Focus

Vipo's strategic focus encompasses:

Core Objectives: To provide innovative and reliable polymer-based solutions that meet the complex needs of industries such as renewable energy, oil and gas, defense, and infrastructure.

Areas of Specialization:

Thermal Insulation: Developing materials that offer superior thermal protection in subsea and topside applications.

Fire Protection: Creating passive fire protection systems that enhance safety in critical environments.

Corrosion Protection: Providing coatings and materials that prevent corrosion in harsh conditions.

Key Technologies Utilized:

Vikotherm®: A subsea thermal insulation and coating range developed in 1980, continuously reinvented to meet modern standards.

Elastopipe™: A flexible piping system designed for various industrial applications, including defense and offshore sectors.

Firestop: Passive fire protection materials developed to withstand harsh fire requirements.

Primary Markets Targeted:

Renewable Energy: Supplying solutions for offshore wind, hydropower, and solar energy projects.

Oil and Gas: Providing subsea and topside solutions for exploration and production.

Defense: Delivering protective systems for naval vessels, aircraft, and land-based transport.

Infrastructure: Offering products for tunnels, buildings, and other critical structures.

Financials and Funding

Vipo is a privately held company with an estimated annual revenue of $11.5 million and approximately 161 employees. In February 2023, Vipo expanded its technological capabilities by acquiring the French R&D company Demeta S.A.S., enhancing its innovation processes and access to next-generation catalysts for high-performing materials.

Pipeline Development

Vipo's pipeline development includes:

Vikotherm® R3: A subsea thermal insulation material launched in 2019, designed for enhanced performance in deepwater applications.

Firestop Passive Fire Protection Material: The second generation of this material was developed and launched in 2018 to meet stringent fire safety standards.

Elastopipe™: A flexible piping system that has been installed on defense vessels since 1999, showcasing its reliability in critical applications.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Vipo's technological platform is distinguished by:

Proprietary Technologies:

Vikotherm®: A subsea thermal insulation and coating range developed in 1980, continuously reinvented to meet modern standards.

Elastopipe™: A flexible piping system designed for various industrial applications, including defense and offshore sectors.

Firestop: Passive fire protection materials developed to withstand harsh fire requirements.

Significant Scientific Methods:

Rubber Compounding: Utilizing advanced rubber compounding techniques to create materials with superior performance characteristics.

Material Science: Applying principles of material science to develop innovative solutions tailored to specific industry needs.

Leadership Team

Vipo's leadership team includes:

Thor Hegg Eriksen: Managing Director, leading the company's strategic direction and operations.

Carol Wedding: General Manager of the U.S. office, overseeing operations in the Americas.

Vicki Kurtz: Integral part of the U.S. team, directing day-to-day operations and holding over 50 U.S. patents.

Oliver Strbik: Engineering Manager in the U.S., responsible for engineering operations.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for polymer-based protective solutions is characterized by:

Market Size and Growth Potential: The demand for advanced insulation, fire protection, and corrosion-resistant materials is growing, driven by infrastructure development and the need for safety in critical industries.

Industry Trends: There is an increasing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, as well as innovations in material science to enhance performance.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in Vipo's market include:

CRC Evans: Specializes in subsea insulation and coating solutions.

Specialty Application Services (SAS): Provides thermal insulation and fireproofing services.

TechnipFMC: Offers a range of subsea technologies, including insulation and protection systems.

AIMS Composites: Focuses on composite materials for subsea applications.

Balmoral: Provides buoyancy and insulation solutions for offshore structures.

EXSTO: Specializes in subsea thermal insulation and buoyancy products.

Matrix Composites & Engineering: Offers composite solutions for subsea and offshore applications.

Tekmar Energy: Provides subsea protection and cable protection systems.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Vipo has engaged in several strategic collaborations to enhance its market position:

Acquisition of Demeta S.A.S.: In February 2023, Vipo acquired Demeta, a French R&D company, strengthening its technology platform and access to advanced catalysts for high-performing materials.

Partnership with Unique Group: In April 2025, Vipo partnered with Unique Group to enhance safety and fire protection solutions in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE and Qatar.

Operational Insights

Vipo differentiates itself through:

Innovative Product Development: Continuous investment in R&D to develop materials that meet evolving industry standards.

Global Presence: Operations in Europe, North America, and Asia, allowing for a broad market reach.

Expertise in Polymer Materials: Decades of experience in rubber compounding and material science, providing a competitive edge in developing tailored solutions.