June 2026 Vol. 81 No. 6
Rehab News
Rehab News: Azuria, Vortex expand trenchless operations through acquisitions
Aries Industries adds Utah-based dealer representative
Aries Industries, an industry leader in state-of-the-art equipment for inspection and maintenance of underground infrastructure, has further strengthened its western U.S. market presence with the addition of a dealer with locations in Utah and Idaho.
Preparing to mark its 90th anniversary in two years, Cate Equipment Co. joins the Aries Industries dealer network with a successful history serving the construction, mining and industrial sectors. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Cate Equipment Co. offers new, used and rental equipment, partnered with expert knowledge and service to keep customers’ projects moving.
Cate Equipment Co. will sell Aries Industries’ award-winning products in Utah, western Wyoming and northern Nevada. The company has a second office in Pocatello, Idaho.
In addition to equipment, Cate Equipment Co. provides field service repairs on a 24/7 basis, an expansive parts inventory, and training for customers’ equipment operators and technicians.
“We only partner with dealers who are as committed to an outstanding customer experience as we are,” said Wes Paul, vice president of Sales and Marketing at Aries Industries. “Cate Equipment Co. has a well-deserved reputation for top-line products and service. We are honored to have them representing Aries Industries’ products in the Intermountain area, knowing their legacy of strong customer relationships will enhance our brand and tradition of excellence.”
Founded in 1985, Aries Industries is the industry leader in manufacturing durable video pipeline inspection and rehabilitation systems, plus data management software, to meet the toughest challenges of underground infrastructure and environmental applications. Focused on “Raising the Bar Underground,” the company’s cameras, tractors and fully integrated systems are built upon a bedrock of continuous innovation, unmatched reliability and expert customer service. After the sale, Aries Industries’ Total Support program ensures that customers always have ready access to technical support, loaner equipment, parts, repair service and training programs.
Azuria Water Solutions acquires RSM Lining Supplies
Azuria Water Solutions, a leader in technology-enabled water solutions, acquired RSM Lining Supplies (RSM), a global leader in supplying advanced cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining materials, equipment, and services.
Founded in 2003 by Richard Davis, RSM is one of the world’s largest global suppliers of cured-in-place pipe. RSM will maintain its headquarters in the United Kingdom and its locations in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia. Serving municipal and residential contractors, RSM’s wastewater products are used in gravity and pressure pipe applications, ranging from 50 to 2,000 mm in diameter and utilizing a variety of cure methods, such as steam, UV, and LED.
“This is our first European acquisition since rebranding to Azuria in 2024, and we couldn’t be more excited about the RSM team,” said Rob Tullman, Azuria president & CEO. “Combined with Insituform’s 50+ years of manufacturing CIPP liners in the UK, we’re excited to further enable RSM’s growth.”
Vortex acquires trenchless contractor MPT
Vortex Companies has acquired Municipal Pipe Tool Company (MPT), an Iowa-based provider of sewer maintenance and trenchless rehabilitation services, expanding its presence across several key Midwest markets.
With headquarters in Hudson, Iowa, MPT serves municipal and industrial customers throughout Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. Founded in 1967, the company evolved from a sewer component supplier into a full-service trenchless rehabilitation contractor with expertise in cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) installation and sewer system maintenance.
The acquisition strengthens Vortex’s Midwest operations and expands its ability to deliver trenchless rehabilitation services to municipalities and industrial customers throughout the region.
Mike Vellano, CEO of Vortex Companies, said MPT's reputation and regional presence made it a strong fit for the company's growth strategy.
“MPT has a long track record of delivering dependable, high-quality work in the communities it serves,” Vellano said. “Bringing their team into Vortex allows us to build on that legacy while expanding service capabilities throughout the Midwest.”
Mark Kaler, who acquired MPT from its founders and currently leads the company, will remain with the business along with the existing operations team.
The acquisition continues Vortex's expansion strategy, as demand for trenchless sewer rehabilitation and infrastructure renewal projects grows across North America. The company said MPT's workforce, customer relationships and regional expertise will be integrated into its existing operations while maintaining local service capabilities.
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