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Advanced Accessory Systems Acquires Transfo-Rakzs of Canada

18 February 1998

Advanced Accessory Systems Acquires Transfo-Rakzs of Canada

    STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., Feb. 18 -- SportRack International,
a wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Accessory Systems (AAS), announces the
acquisition of Transfo-Rakzs, a Canadian manufacturer of specialty rear-hitch
bicycle, ski and snowboard racks for the automotive aftermarket.
    According to AAS Chairman F. Alan Smith, "Our strategy for growth includes
the acquisition of leadership companies in the worldwide vehicle accessories
market.  The addition of Transfo-Rakzs further extends our product line and
position as the leading worldwide supplier of towing and roof rack systems and
accessories."
    The Transfo-Rakzs product line includes bicycle, ski and snowboard
carriers.  Compatible with nearly any vehicle, the racks can be attached to
either a trailer hitch or spare wheel.  Products include fold-down bike
carriers and racks that accommodate both skis and bikes.  Specialized products
include snowboard carriers and heavy-duty bike racks that hold up to eight
bicycles.
    Transfo-Rakzs' manufacturing operations will remain in Bromptonville,
Quebec, located 1 1/2 hours east of Montreal.  Administrative operations will
be moved to SportRack International headquarters, located in Granby, Quebec.
    Germain Depot, founder of Transfo-Rakzs, will remain with the company as
director of the hitch-rack manufacturing division.  He will also be
responsible for the development of future hitch-rack products.
    President of SportRack International, Jean Maynard, said, "We are pleased
to add the Transfo-Rakzs category to the SportRack International product line.
The popularity of minivans and SUVs has made rear-hitches the fastest-growing
style of hitch in North America, and Transfo-Rakzs' complete line of rear-
hitches are specifically designed for use with these types of vehicles."
    SportRack International is a leading designer and manufacturer of roof
rack systems and sports accessories, including bike racks, ski racks and
rooftop cargo boxes, sold under the brand names Mondial, SportRack, SnapRack
and Nomadic.
    Advanced Accessory Systems, LLC, is a leading worldwide supplier of towing
and roof rack systems and accessories.  Headquartered in Sterling Heights,
Mich., AAS has 21 locations throughout North America and Europe and is the
parent company for the following operations:
    -- SportRack Automotive, Sterling Heights, Mich.; OEM roof rack systems
       and accessories,
    -- SportRack International, Granby, Quebec, Canada; Aftermarket roof rack
       systems and accessories,
    -- Valley Industries, Madison Heights, Mich.; Towing systems - North
       America, and
    -- Brink, Staphorst, Holland; Towing systems - Europe.

SOURCE  Advanced Accessory Systems