Applied Tech Products Acquires Automotive WEK Industries
13 September 2000
Applied Tech Products Acquires Automotive OEM Manufacturer WEK Industries
RADNOR, Pa.--September 12, 2000--Applied Tech Products (formerly SKM Applied Technology Partners) announced today the acquisition of WEK Industries, Inc., a Jefferson, Ohio blow molder of plastic products and systems, engineered specially for the automotive market.
According to Raymond Langton Co-founder and CEO of Applied Tech Products, "the addition of WEK's blow molding technology, low-cost manufacturing and key customer relationships brings Applied Tech Products' Automotive Group significant strategic and manufacturing benefits."
WEK Industries joins Michigan Rubber Products ("MRP") of Cadillac, Michigan as a member of the Applied Tech Products Automotive Group. Effective with the acquisition, Anthony A. Martino will replace Walter E. Kalberer, former President and owner of WEK as President. Mr. Kalberer will remain with WEK through a transition period providing consultation in key areas including manufacturing and business development.
According to Dennis Brovont, President of MRP, "With MRP and WEK together, we now have the capability to design, test and manufacture complete rubber and blow molded plastic sub-systems, reinforcing our efforts to supply the automotive industry with more complete systems and a leaner supply base." He continued, "jointly we will expand our full-service capabilities to serve a global customer base."
MRP is based in Cadillac, Michigan and has earned an excellent reputation among the Big Three and Tier 1 auto suppliers for its complete design, development and manufacturing services for rubber and plastic products. MRP has excellent quality and delivery ratings and is QS-9000 and ISO-9001 registered. Ford Motor Company recognizes MRP as a "Full Service Supplier" (FSS).
With this acquisition of WEK, the Applied Tech Products Automotive Group manufactures and markets within five main areas: (1) air ducting (engine and HVAC); (2) static gaskets; (3) NVH - (noise vibration dampening products); (4) tubing for air, water and fuel; and (5) custom blow molding products.