Transactions

the assets of Hoov-R-Line a division of Hoover Universal, Inc. a subsidiary of Johnson Controls, Inc. have been acquired by 20th Century Companies, Inc. an indirect subsidiary of American Brands, Inc. MERTZ ASSOCIATES served as advisor to 20th Century Companies, Inc. in developing a search strategy, identifying Hoov-R-Line, opening discussions with the parent firm, evaluating the business and negotiating the letter of intent.

• HOOV-R-LINE, Providence, Kentucky, is a manufacturer of plumbing fixtures distributed through hardware stores and home centers and sold to original equipment manufacturers and contractors.
   
• JOHNSON CONTROLS, INC. is a major NYSE listed manufacturer of industrial controls, process instrumentation, and automobile and industrial batteries and other components.
   
• 20th CENTURY COMPANIES, INC., manufactures and distributes a variety of plumbing supply and repair products in the United States and Canada.
   
• AMERICAN BRANDS, INC., Old Greenwich, Connecticut, is a NYSE-listed diversified manufacturer and distributor of consumer products. 20th Century Companies, Inc. is a subsidiary of American Brands’ E-II Holdings, Inc.