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Advanced Accessory Systems Acquires Titan Industries

23 February 2000

Advanced Accessory Systems Acquires Titan Industries

    STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich., Feb. 23 -- Advanced Accessory
Systems (AAS) today announced the acquisition of Titan Industries.  Located in
Wyandotte, Michigan, Titan Industries designs and manufactures trailer balls
and related attachment accessories including bike racks, steps, and pintle
hooks.  These products are marketed under the brand name Adapt Hitch Ball(R).
    Titan will become a part of Valley Industries, the North American
automotive aftermarket business of AAS, which includes operations in Lodi, CA,
and Auburn Hills, MI.  Valley Industries is a leader in supplying the North
American aftermarket with complete towing systems and accessories including
trailer balls and ball mounts, tow hooks, grille guards, and brush guards.
    Roger Morgan, president of Valley Industries, states, "The addition of the
Titan product line, particularly the interchangeable trailer ball design,
provides opportunities to introduce new unique products to our existing
customers and allows for the continuing expansion of our strategic plan."
Titan will continue its operations under the direction of Chuck Thomas as
president and Bill Thomas as vice-president of sales.
    Financial details have not been released.
    Formed in 1995, AAS has become the global leader of roof rack systems,
towing systems, and related exterior accessories for the automotive OEM market
and Aftermarket.  Headquartered in Sterling Heights, Michigan, the company
employs nearly 2,200 people in 15 countries and has annual sales in excess of
$300 million.