Leviton Grabs a Larger Stake in the Home Automation Market with Deal for HAI

Home automation systems didn’t take off the way they were projected to back in the early 1990s when Smart House and rival systems seemed poised to change the way everyone interacted with their homes. Nevertheless, the market has continued to develop alongside advances in energy management systems, lighting controls, home theaters, low-voltage security and smart building control systems generally.

Seeing further opportunities for growth in this market segment, Leviton Manufacturing, Melville, N.Y., announced the acquisition of Home Automation, Inc. (HAI), a leader in home automation controls for residential and light commercial applications. Leviton said the addition of HAI will enhance its current home automation offerings by providing homeowners with “solutions that combine security, energy management and entertainment controls, in user-friendly applications.”

Integrating HAI products with Leviton’s solutions will create a wide-ranging product offering, from systems that allow homeowners to control their automated video surveillance system and audio devices over the Internet to programmable thermostats and light switches accessible directly from a smart phone.

“Leviton’s acquisition of HAI represents a significant expansion of our offerings in the residential market, and furthers Leviton’s commitment to providing customers with the latest technologies as affordable, easy-to-use solutions,” said Daryoush Larizadeh, chief operating officer of Leviton. “Leviton and HAI are two established brands coming together to offer a complete whole home automation solution that customers can trust.”

HAI will operate as a new, standalone business unit, branded HAI by Leviton, and maintain operations in New Orleans. The new business unit will be managed by Jay McLellan, current CEO and president of HAI, who will report directly to Daryoush Larizadeh. HAI product lines will soon be available through Leviton’s U.S. and international channel partners and distributors. Leviton also plans to provide its builder and contractor network with the necessary training for installing HAI systems.

“We are proud to be part of the Leviton team, joining a company with a rich history and well-established brand,” said HAI’s McLellan. “Through the combined technologies from Leviton and HAI, we anticipate continued growth and innovation in the home automation space, providing homeowners with additional advancements for years to come.”

The acquisition of HAI continues Leviton’s commitment to strategic growth and innovation. Leviton has evolved into a global provider of electrical wiring devices, data connectivity solutions and lighting and energy management systems for a variety of end-use markets.