Pye-Barker is proud to announce our expansion into the West Coast with the acquisition of Universal Fire Equipment, Inc. in Portland, Oregon. This family company with humble beginnings transformed into a fierce regional competitor through the heart, hard work, and determination of its founder and owner, Greg Heath and his wife, Liz. Below they share their remarkable story of risking it all and reaping the rewards: a true embodiment of the American dream.

“Universal Fire Equipment, Inc was started in 1990 by Greg Heath. Having 8 years of experience, $5,000 in his pocket and a pick-up truck, Greg decided to move back to his hometown in Oregon with his wife and his 4 month old son and start a new fire protection business.

Greg started by knocking on doors and talking to anyone that would listen. After about 2 years totally on his own, he was able to hire his first technician to start expanding and landing more accounts. The two of them worked closely over the next year and started to build a dedicated customer base. Greg’s early success was due in part to his dedication to quality work, keeping his promises and building relationships with customers so that their trust in him and Universal Fire was earned. More employees were hired over the years and growth followed.

Universal Fire Equipment built and maintains an excellent reputation in the Portland Metro and surrounding areas. Business expanded to include not only extinguisher service but also restaurant and industrial fire suppression system installs and service, local alarm, emergency lighting, and first aid.

Thirty years later, Universal Fire Equipment is a thriving and prosperous business and is proud to be a part of the Pye Barker Fire & Safety family.

Greg and Liz will remain to help with the company’s transition into a PBFS branch, then enjoy the retirement the fruit of their labor has provided. Pye-Barker is honored to acquire this business and have the pleasure not only of carrying on this family’s legacy, but also of expanding our own company footprint. With this acquisition, we are excited to offer coast-to-coast fire protection services, with 50 locations across 10 states.

Thank you, Greg and Liz, for entrusting us with your business and playing a major part in making Pye-Barker history.

Pye-Barker is a proud collection of small to moderate sized companies and has provided many owners with a satisfying exit strategy that provided peace of mind for themselves and their staff. If you would like to speak to someone confidentially about the opportunities available for you and your business, please reach out to our Director of Business Development, Chuck Reimel, at 910-612-6252 or send a private email to creimel@pyebarkerfire.com. We look forward to hearing from you!