Baxi S.p.A, Bassano Italy, announced it will transfer all North American Baxi business and support to its North American factory operation in Utica, New York. The move also will Baxi to deliver its products, service and support “factory direct” to all its North American customers.

“We will be better positioned to serve customers in the U.S. and Canada and expand our brand presence in these markets at a much faster rate,” Managing Director of Baxi S.p.A. Alberto Favero said.

Baxi product design and manufacturing will continue in Italy.

“This is an exciting opportunity for us and for the future of the Baxi brand in the North American market,” Baxi North America CEO Ron Passafaro said. “While our commitment to our current customers will not change, there is incredible potential to grow our worldwide leading brand. This new business positions us for those opportunities.”

In other Baxi North America news, the company appointed Roger McLaughlin to the role of director of sales. He will oversee the company’s channel management partners and lead the North American sales team.

McLaughlin comes to Baxi North America from Uponor, where he was the Northeast regional sales manager. He is a member of multiple industry associations, including ASPE, MCAA, the International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers and others.

“I’ve worked very closely with HVAC, plumbing and municipal customers for many years,” McLaughlin said. “I’m excited and humbled to take on this new challenge and to lead Baxi North America into a new era. I look forward to servicing and providing solutions to existing Baxi customers as well as expanding opportunities in new markets.”