Armstrong Acquires Simplex Ceilings

LANCASTER, Pa., Nov. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (NYSE: AWI) today announced it has acquired Intalite Inc., operating under the name Simplex ("Simplex") and based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.  The acquisition of Simplex strengthens Armstrong's capabilities in the North American specialty ceiling market and supports the company's overall growth strategy, which includes expanding its global leadership and manufacturing presence in targeted markets.  Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.  Simplex will become part of the Armstrong Building Products division.

Simplex designs, develops and manufactures specialty metal ceiling systems for a wide range of market segments and applications, with sales primarily in the United States and Canada.

"The acquisition of Simplex expands our technical capabilities, broadens our extensive specialty ceilings portfolio and improves our service and lead times for customers in North America.  Simplex is a respected company in specialty metal ceilings with a strong team that understands the importance of responsiveness and practical design solutions.  That's what our customers are telling us they need," said Mike Shirk, vice president, Armstrong Architectural Specialties Worldwide.  "Simply put, our strategy is to offer the broadest set of innovative ceiling solutions with market-leading service and quality.  Simplex is a great fit."

According to Gerald Morris, previous owner of Simplex, "The Armstrong acquisition of Simplex is a win-win for all involved.  The combination of complementary capabilities from each of the companies will result in better products and service for customers, continued growth in the industry and opportunities for Simplex's dedicated employees."

Armstrong World Industries, Inc. is a global leader in the design and manufacture of floors, ceilings and cabinets.  In 2010, Armstrong's consolidated net sales totaled approximately $2.8 billion.  Based in Lancaster, Pa., Armstrong operates 31 plants in seven countries and has approximately 9,300 employees worldwide.  For more information, visit http://www.armstrong.com/.

SOURCE Armstrong World Industries, Inc.