The glass and glazing industry is beginning to process the recent news that C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. (CRL) has acquired United States Aluminum, formerly a part of the International Aluminum Group, which filed bankruptcy in May. The parent company’s assets had barely two weeks ago been purchased at auction by Universal Molding Extrusion Corp.
Mike Nicklas, product development manager for J.E. Berkowitz L.P., says it’s an interesting move for CRL.
“[CRL] probably saw the timing was right, it was a good buy and it adds another dimension to their product line,” says Nicklas. He says over the past few years CRL has continued to grow and expand with architectural products, such as sunshades, metal panels and door systems, so the acquisition of U.S. Aluminum seems to fit as another product addition.
“Plus, they already have an existing customer base that uses those products,” says Nicklas.
Nicklas adds, “It’s been interesting to watch over the past few years the company that CRL is becoming. They’ve had product extensions and geographic expansion and it’s still a privately held company.”
"This should not be a shock to anyone," says Lyle R. Hill, managing director of Keytech North America. "It is a solid business decision and another brilliant strategic move by the Friese team."
Lloyd Talbert, president of CRL, says, "We are very pleased to announce the acquisition of the assets and business of U.S. Aluminum, one of the most respected names in the storefront and curtainwall business. We are proud of this new association and are especially pleased that Tom Harris, executive vice president of the predecessor company, will join us as president of the new company. Tom has over 20 years experience leading major storefront and curtainwall suppliers, and is well respected in the industry. Tom will spend the next few weeks assembling a team to rebuild this iconic brand, and will be integral in the further development of a comprehensive architectural hardware program."
Talbert continues, "Our plan is to contact customers and vendors of U.S. Aluminum, as well as many of their former employees, to re-establish relationships. We wish to assure those U.S. Aluminum clients who have jobs in progress that we will immediately assess the status of their orders and expedite their completion and delivery. We're confident that we can restore the U.S. Aluminum brand to its former luster. We also appreciate the support and encouragement we have received from many C.R. Laurence customers during this process."
