Harbour Group Acquires Tech Lighting LLC

ST. LOUIS, May 4, 2004 -- Harbour Group has acquired Tech Lighting LLC, a leading designer and manufacturer of architectural lighting systems, Sam Fox, Harbour Group's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, announced today. The company was purchased from Dixon Midland LLC, a private investment group based in Chicago. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Based in Skokie, Ill., Tech Lighting was founded in 1983 and has approximately 230 employees. The company is a leading designer and manufacturer of branded, high quality architectural lighting systems for commercial and residential use. The company's extensive product line includes more than 6,000 items, marketed under such well known brands as Tech Lighting(TM), 2thousand degrees(TM) and tiella(TM). The products enjoy leading market shares and are sold nationally through more than 1,000 retail lighting showrooms and more than 1,000 commercial electrical distributors. Additional information about the company and its products can be found on its website at www.techlighting.com.

Tech Lighting represents Harbour Group's first entry into the residential and commercial lighting sectors. Mr. Fox commented, "Tech Lighting enjoys leading market shares, well recognized brand names, a reputation for outstanding customer service and an award-winning design team. This acquisition is another example of our commitment to companies with outstanding products and service. We believe there are significant opportunities for further penetration of its existing markets, for entry into new markets, and for the acquisition of complementary businesses."

Joe Higgins, Tech Lighting's President, said the acquisition by Harbour Group will allow the company to continue to pursue its growth strategy. He commented, "Harbour Group has recognized the value we've created through innovative product development, a focus on superior customer service and the development of an extensive distribution network. We believe this will be a valuable relationship for both companies and we look forward to working with them to continue to grow the business."

Harbour Group is a privately owned company based in St. Louis. Harbour Group and its operating companies are engaged in the manufacture and distribution of a wide variety of consumer and industrial products, including entertainment products, automotive enthusiast products, automotive aftermarket accessories, architectural lighting, hearth and chimney products, auxiliary plastic processing equipment, textile machinery, pre-engineered building components, and heat exchange equipment.