Danfoss – New chapter for Danfoss Appliance Controls: Frion Group to build on 70 years of expertise

Danfoss Climate Solutions has reached an agreement to divest its Appliance Controls business, a manufacturer of electromechanical thermostats and temperature control solutions for refrigeration and appliance applications. 

The business will be acquired by two Danfoss leaders, Andrej Debnar and Peter Haas, who will establish Frion Group to continue its long-standing activities. 

The agreement is intended to secure the long-term future of the Appliance Controls business, which will continue under the new company name Frion Group, while ensuring continuity for customers, employees, and suppliers and preserving decades of expertise in refrigeration and appliance control solutions. 

Appliance Controls is a well-established business with deep roots in the refrigeration and appliance industry. Building on more than 70 years of expertise in electromechanical thermostats and temperature control solutions, the business continues to serve customers worldwide with reliable, high-quality products.  

Andrej Debnar (right) and Peter Haas (left) – Establishing Frion Group

Appliance Controls has a strong foundation, loyal customers, and a highly capable team. Peter and I are committed to building on that legacy. Our priority is continuity. Customers can expect the same trusted products, the same commitment to quality, and the same dedicated people behind the business. At the same time, becoming an independent company gives us the opportunity to focus entirely on developing the business and creating long-term value for customers and employees.

Andrej Debnar

Future co-owner of Frion Group

As Controls and Thermal Management (CTM), a division of Danfoss Climate Solutions, continues to focus on its core portfolio and strategic priorities, Danfoss believes Appliance Controls, which has been part of the division as an independent business, is best positioned for future success under dedicated ownership with a clear focus on developing and growing the business.

Dennis Appel, Divisional President, Controls and Thermal Management, emphasized the confidence Danfoss has in the new owners and the rationale behind the decision. 

Once the transaction is completed in late October, all 64 employees currently working in Appliance Controls will transfer to Frion Group, along with the facilities, production equipment, and operations in Zlaté Moravce, Slovakia. This will help ensure a smooth transition and continued business continuity.

Danfoss Climate Solutions, Andrej Debnar, and Peter Haas share a common ambition: to ensure a seamless transition that preserves the strong relationships, quality standards, and trusted partnerships that have been built over decades. 

We expect the transaction to be completed by the end of November 2026, with Frion Group assuming operations from December 1, 2026. 

Appliance Controls is a strong and respected business with a proud history, talented employees, and trusted customer relationships.

While the business is no longer part of CTM’s core strategic focus, we firmly believe it has a strong future ahead. We have great trust in Andrej and Peter, who know the business, its customers, and its people exceptionally well. By placing Appliance Controls in their hands, we are creating the best possible conditions for continued growth, safeguarding jobs, and ensuring customers continue to receive the quality and service they expect.
 

Dennis Appel

Divisional President, Controls and Thermal Management