CTA Acoustics Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting at Corbin Kentucky Facility

Innovative industrial design and state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment support commitment to be world leader in acoustical and thermal insulation products

CORBIN, Ky., May 7 -- CTA Acoustics today held the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new, premier 350,000-sq. ft. facility in Corbin, Kentucky, located approximately 90 miles south of Lexington. The creation of the state-of-the-art manufacturing plant producing acoustical and thermal insulation products underscores the company's long-standing commitment to the area as well as a confidence in its formula for success.

Speaking to a large crowd of well-wishers, CTA Chairman and CEO James J. Pike said, "We're here today to celebrate not only the grand opening of this world-class facility, but to celebrate the tenacity, ingenuity and support CTA received from local and state officials, our customers, employees, our supplier partners like Walbridge Aldinger and the community at large for making it possible." Pike added, "Teamwork built this facility and it is teamwork delivering world-class, award-winning products and customer service that will keep CTA the benchmark of the industry."

CTA's innovative design combines three facilities under one roof, with twin 125,000-sq. ft. manufacturing plants separated by the shipping and receiving area. The plant boasts eleven new presses, seven new water jet systems, two state-of-the-art mat-forming production lines and has the infrastructure in place (i.e. design, electrical, air handling and support systems) for additional presses, water jets and two more mat-forming lines as new business warrants. The facility replaces the company's previous 300,000- sq. ft. Corbin plant largely destroyed by fire last year.

"Our commitment to make CTA the world leader in acoustical and thermal insulation products has remained steadfast," said Pike. "In less than seven months and over 100,000 man hours, from concept to construction, the foundation for success is realized with this new facility."

At present, the new facility is producing or has firm commitments to produce products for a number of the world's leading automakers, including Ford, DaimlerChrysler, GM and Nissan. CTA also recently entered into the development and testing phase with two non-automotive, building-products clients, Johns Manville and Owens Corning.

"I'm not alone in my enthusiasm for the future," said Pike. "Our customers are telling us CTA stands at the head of the class. The investments we've made this past year are already garnering new business that down the road will result in additional growth and employment opportunities."

Pike added the long lead times inherent in each of these industries can extend a year or longer before production can commence.

"The combination of our manufacturing prowess and award-winning new products like QuietBlend(TM) make our mid- and long-term position for future business strong," said Pike.

Based in Madison Heights, Mich., CTA Acoustics is a privately held, full- service supplier of acoustical and thermal insulation products for the automotive industry and is the only company in its industry segment developing and producing its own materials for engine compartment, interior and industrial applications.