Worthington Cylinders Acquires BernzOmatic

Worthington Industries Inc.’s Pressure Cylinders division purchased the BernzOmatic business from Irwin Industrial Tool Co. BernzOmatic manufacture and supplies hand-held torches, solder, accessories and related products, for retail and wholesale distribution to the professional plumbing and HVAC markets.

BernzOmatic has two manufacturing facilities, in Medina, N.Y. and Winston-Salem, N.C., and had revenues of approximately $100 million in the 2010 calendar year.

Worthington Cylinders manufactures pressure cylinders for storing liquefied petroleum, refrigerant, oxygen, and industrial gases. It also supplies related products and services.

“This acquisition accelerates our growth in the hand torch business with an established retail brand and gives us access to additional international distribution channels,” stated Worthington Industries Chairman and CEO John McConnell.

Worthington Industries said the acquisition would add to its product mix, with new offerings such as solder and accessories. It also will provide access to the plumbing wholesale channel, currently sold under the Lenox brand, as well as international markets.

Notably, it said the purchase directly supports Worthington Cylinders’ hand-held torch cylinder business.

“We can now offer customers the benefit and opportunity to purchase Worthington’s hand torch cylinder and the BernzOmatic hand torch and accessories from the same manufacturer,” stated Worthington Cylinders president Harry Goussetis. “In addition to its strong brand, BernzOmatic has a history of product innovation. We anticipate enhancing that legacy with our manufacturing capabilities and expertise to grow existing and new product categories.”