Carris Hamelin Partnership

Press Release
REAL EXPERIENCE. REEL SOLUTIONS
Carris Reels & J. Hamelin Industries

November, 2008—Carris Reels of Rutland, Vermont and J. Hamelin Industries of Montreal, Canada are pleased to announce the conclusion of a partnership agreement.

Carris has purchased a 50% ownership of this 2nd generation family business from Mr. Guy Hamelin, who will retire after more than 50 years of service. Harold Stotland, who holds the other 50%, will continue as Hamelin’s president and CEO.

For over 70 years, Hamelin has been a leader in wire and cable packaging in Canada and is recognized as an innovator of reel return programs, reel repairs, and reel-tracking systems. Hamelin’s head office and manufacturing plant is located in Boisbriand, Quebec, approximately 20 miles from Montreal. Hamelin also operates repair and assembly facilities in Chambly, Quebec, Bowmanville, Ontario, and Worcester, Ma.

At 57 years, Carris Reels is another long-established company in the wire and cable industry, with manufacturing plants in six states and Mexico and a network of assembly/warehouse locations throughout the United States. Carris became a 100% employee-owned company in January, 2008. Carris boasts an extensive product line—as well as nailed wood and plywood, they offer plastic, stamped metal, hardboard, and wood-metal reels.

Mike Curran, president of Carris Reels commented that “…The combined experience of our two companies, the knowledge, systems and commitment to our customers will better position us to meet the demands of wire and cable packaging. The challenge to take cost out of the supply chain will be even better met with cross-border initiatives, including reel recovery, recycling, and raw material opportunities.”

Harold Stotland, president of Hamelin adds, “The increased product potential of Carris from existing Canadian facilities will deliver value to our supply chain management systems already in place. By combining our companies, we are better positioned to meet our customers’ growing global needs.”