Tricon Announces Plans to Expand Manufacturing Operations Into Mexico

LISLE, Ill., March 8 -- Tricon Industries, Inc., a leader in insert and injection molding processes, as well as stampings and electrical contacts today announced plans to open a manufacturing facility in the city of Fresnillo, Mexico, located in the north central state of Zacatecas. The decision to secure a manufacturing facility in Mexico is a result of Tricon's continuing globalization efforts.

"We are excited about this new Mexican venture. Our operations will allow us to be closer to many of our current customers' Mexican facilities," said Ralph Grandle, president, Tricon Industries, Inc. "In addition, this expansion gives us the opportunity to serve new customers that require Mexican sourcing outlets."

Tricon's facility will be approximately 30,000 square feet and will contain all aspects of Tricon's manufacturing expertise. The company plans to begin manufacturing in Mexico by mid-2004.

"Our new Mexican facility will provide customers with the same superior level of manufacturing technology and quality care as our other manufacturing facilities throughout the world," said Grandle. "Our vertically integrated operations have always been a competitive advantage for us. This same type of vertical integration will occur in our plant in Fresnillo."

Tricon Industries, Inc. specializes in insert molding and specialized components for worldwide automotive, mobile communications and appliance markets. Tricon was one of the first in the industry to use insert-molding techniques for the manufacture of switch and relay components as well as other electrically oriented parts.

Some of Tricon's recent projects include complex insert-molded junction blocks and multifunction switch components, sealed bulb taillight sockets and circuit stampings, single-bulb light sockets, alternators and encapsulated components, and mobile antenna assemblies. Tricon is a QS-9000/ISO 9001- registered manufacturer both in the United States and Europe, with comprehensive design, project management and manufacturing capabilities that can be tailored to specific project requirements. In addition, Tricon will be TS 16949 compliant by May, 2004.

For more information, visit us on the Internet at www.triconinc.com .

NOTE TO EDITORS: Please visit Tricon at SAE World Congress, booth number 501.