Orchid Ceramics Closing U.S. Operations

Tulsa, OK, May 25, 2011--Orchid Ceramics has announced that it will be closing its U.S. operations after nine years of business. The tentative closing date is around July 31, 2011.

Orchid Ceramics will halt commercialization of its products in the United States.

Orchid Ceramics is owned by Corona, based in Colombia, South America. Corona cites several reasons for its decision to close Orchid Ceramics: competitive challenges in the industry and opportunities available in developing countries, particularly in Colombia, coupled with the macroeconomic situation in the U.S.--including the adverse movement of the exchange rate and intense price sensitivity--has hindered consolidated profitability for Orchid Ceramics.

“We are disappointed and saddened to be making this announcement,” said Kurt Graves, CEO of Orchid Ceramics. “We understand with the current economic situation it is a difficult but strategic decision for Corona to make. We want to assure our employees, vendors and distributors that this process will be handled sensitively, respectfully, and with full consideration of their needs.”

Orchid Ceramics product offering includes quality, value-oriented ceramic, porcelain, glass and decorative tiles.