Zeledyne Purchases ACH

ALLEN PARK, Mich. – Zeledyne announced the purchase of Ford Motor Company Automotive Components Holdings (ACH) glass business and its plants in Nashville, Tenn., and Tulsa, Okla., its subsidiary Vidriocar in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Also included are the leases for a warehouse in Lebanon, Tenn., and engineering offices in Allen Park, Mich.

“Zeledyne has a tremendous opportunity for growth,” said Robert Price, Zeledyne chairman. “We plan to expand all three areas of the business: automotive glass as original equipment for vehicles, Carlite, the automotive aftermarket glass, and Versalux, high quality architectural glass. With an energetic new senior management team and our talented UAW workforce we expect to increase dramatically our market share both nationally and internationally. We are committed to the production of quality products with the highest levels of customer satisfaction.”

Mr. Price announced the appointment of Michael J. McCarney as the new chief executive officer for Zeledyne. Mr. McCarney comes to the newly formed and privately-held Zeledyne organization from an illustrious 30 year career with Ford Motor Company which included being President of Ford South East Asia, and Director of Manufacturing Operations North American Truck.

"I am honored to have been given the opportunity to lead Zeledyne, a company with enormous potential. With our skilled work force and dedicated management team we intend to expand all areas of the company through innovative technology and outstanding customer service,” said Mc Carney.

Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry commented, “This is great news for Tulsa and for the state of Oklahoma. For many years, the glass plant has provided good jobs and a positive economic boost to Oklahoma, and we appreciate the continuing commitment from Zeledyne.”

"I am excited that the glass plant and the workforce were able to remain in Tulsa," said Mayor Kathy Taylor. "We should all take pride in Tulsans who choose to invest here, live here and raise their families here, and support the companies that make it possible. Tulsa's growth depends on the strength of its businesses and their ability to retain and attract talented people. With this acquisition, Zeledyne is a strong force in the automobile manufacturing industry."

Nashville Mayor Karl Dean said, “The Ford Glass Plant, with over fifty years of history in Nashville, has been a uniquely significant element in the economic development of the city. I commend Ford, Mr. Price and the Zeledyne leadership team for their efforts to ensure that the plant’s operations will continue. I appreciate their commitment to our city and the promising future they offer for the facility and its employees.”

“Tennessee’s prominence as a leader of the southern automotive industry continues to grow and Zeledyne will be a great addition to our well-respected automotive supply base,” said Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen. “I am also pleased Zeledyne plans to expand its product offerings because of the potential for providing even more high quality, good paying-jobs for Tennesseans.”

Zeledyne products were installed in 2.7 million vehicles last year. Versalux architectural glass can be found on notable buildings around the world from Ford Field in Detroit to casinos in China and hotels in Dubai. About 1,600 employees in the U.S. and Mexico work at its various operations. Zeledyne is a new company formed by Robert Price, a Tulsa-based private investor and experienced business leader.

 

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