FINAL
ClarkWestern and Dietrich
Metal Framing to Form Joint Venture
Worthington
to acquire service center assets of MISA Metals, Inc.
NEW YORK, Feb. 22, 2011 — Marubeni-Itochu Steel America Inc. (MISA) and
Worthington Industries, Inc. (NYSE: WOR) announced today that they have reached
an agreement in principle to combine ClarkWestern Building Systems and Dietrich
Metal Framing in a newly-formed joint venture.
In the transaction, MISA will acquire a 75 percent interest of the joint
venture, and Worthington will acquire a 25 percent interest. As part of the exchange, Worthington will
also acquire the assets of the non-automotive service center business of MISA Metals,
Inc. (MMI) consisting of three steel processing facilities located in Ohio and
Tennessee. Both parties anticipate the
deal will be signed by the end of the month.
“We
are making two businesses stronger by combining them in a joint venture,” John
McConnell, Chairman and CEO of Worthington Industries said. “The economic downturn has been particularly
difficult for the construction industry and by creating the joint venture, we
best position them to be profitable now, and for success when the market begins
to recover.” McConnell added, “We are
also pleased that a large number of our current employees will have an
opportunity to work for the joint venture.”
“The
joint venture will provide our customers access to a broad product line,
high-performing equipment and excellent customer service,” said Bill Courtney,
President of ClarkWestern Building Systems Inc.
“Our combined technical expertise has the potential to benefit our
customers through improved efficiency, innovative products and strong leadership. We are
excited about the opportunities we can offer by having a broad distribution
capability supported by our combined well-respected workforce.”
The
exchange of assets is being structured as a cashless transaction with the
exception of working capital adjustments and other transition payments.
About
Marubeni-Itochu Steel America Inc. (MISA)
MISA
is a fully integrated network of metal processing and manufacturing facilities
and sales and service offices strategically located in the United States,
Canada and Mexico. Founded in 2001, the company is a recognized industry
leader in all aspects of
supply chain management and processed metals for the automotive,
construction and other major industries.
MISA
is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marubeni-Itochu Steel Inc. and is the
subsidiary responsible for international trade, processing and manufacturing
operations in the Americas. Marubeni-Itochu Steel Inc. is a global leader in
metal trading, processing and manufacturing with revenue of $15.1 billion in
fiscal year 2009. Marubeni-Itochu Steel Inc. employs approximately 7,800 people
and operates 45 offices in 23 countries worldwide.
About Worthington
Industries
Worthington
Industries is a leading diversified metals manufacturing company with 2010
fiscal year sales of approximately $1.9 billion. The Columbus, Ohio based
company is North America’s premier value-added steel processor and a leader in
manufactured pressure cylinders, such as propane, oxygen and helium tanks, hand
torches, refrigerant and industrial tanks, camping cylinders, alternative fuel
storage, and scuba tanks; light gauge steel framing for commercial and
residential construction; framing systems and stairs for mid-rise buildings;
current and past model automotive service stampings; metal ceiling grid
systems; steel pallets and racks; and through joint ventures, suspension grid
systems for concealed and lay-in panel ceilings, and laser welded blanks.
Worthington employs approximately 6,500 people and operates 67 facilities in 11
countries.
Founded in 1955, the company operates under a long-standing corporate
philosophy rooted in the golden rule. Earning money for its shareholders is the
first corporate goal. This philosophy serves as an unwavering commitment to the
customer, supplier, and shareholder, and it serves as the company’s foundation
for one of the strongest employee-employer partnerships in American industry.
About ClarkWestern
Building Systems
ClarkWestern
Building Systems manufactures a full line of drywall studs and accessories,
structural studs and joists, metal lath and accessories, and shaft wall studs
and track. Quality manufacturing, a full-line inventory offering, engineering
services, and responsive customer service all combine to make ClarkWestern
Building Systems one of the largest and fastest growing manufacturers of light
gauge steel framing in the United States.
About Dietrich Metal
Framing
Dietrich Metal Framing is the leading manufacturer of light-gauge framing and
finishing products, systems and services for commercial and residential
construction. Dietrich’s employees use state-of-the-art equipment and in-house
metallurgic labs to ensure superior product performance and competitive prices.
Dietrich Metal Framing, founded in 1959, is a Worthington Industries Company.