Holland, MI, Sept. 16--Haworth, Inc. and Interface, Inc. announced that they have signed an agreement for Haworth to purchase the assets of Interface Architectural Resources (InterfaceAR), the Grand Rapids-based manufacturer of raised access flooring currently owned by Interface. The transaction, which includes certain inventory, real estate, fixed assets and intellectual property, is expected to close on September 26.
InterfaceAR manufactures raised access flooring used in new and existing commercial buildings. According to Haworth president and CEO Robert Krasa, this acquisition gives Haworth the most complete line of raised access flooring solutions in North America.
"The acquisition strengthens and complements our architectural product lines of LifeSpace movable walls, Nexus low-profile raised access flooring, DataThing data and Powerbase electrical modular cabling solutions," Krasa said. "Combined with our systems furniture, seating, storage products and case goods, Haworth offers the most complete line of modular workspace solutions available. This concept responds to the growing demand for work spaces that are flexible, easy to reconfigure and environmentally responsible. The environmental advantage offered by raised access flooring was a key driver in our decision to pursue this opportunity."
"Raised access flooring" refers to flooring systems that are installed in modules in either new construction or in buildings that are being refurbished. The raised access flooring creates an under floor space that can be used to run electrical wiring, data cabling, and heating and cooling utilities.
"InterfaceAR is an excellent fit for us," said Krasa. "We are excited about the talented employees and dealers that will be joining the Haworth family of companies."
InterfaceAR originally was founded in 1982 as C-Tec Corporation. In 1995, the company was acquired by Interface, changed its name to Interface Architectural Resources, Inc. and is today abbreviated to InterfaceAR. Its products include steel-reinforced concrete floor panels and steel floor panels along with associated power distribution and HVAC accessories and system components.
Haworth has a long history of environmental leadership in its industry. It has earned such honors as the Michigan Recycler of the Year Award and the federal government's Evergreen Award for environmental responsibility. Haworth is also an industry leader in the number of manufacturing plants registered to ISO 14001 environmental standards.
