Industry Headlines

MAAX Posts Higher Earnings, Buys Aker Plastics

Quebec's MAAX Inc. reports a 35.9 percent increase in net income for the second quarter of fiscal year 2002, which ended Aug. 31. Its margin rose from 5.5 percent in 2001's second quarter to 6.7 percent, in part from a strong housing industry and a turnaround in the spa segment. Consolidated sales grew 11.5 percent. The first half of the fiscal year saw an income increase of 40.1 percent from last year and a 15.9 percent increase in sales.

The company also has signed an agreement in principle to acquire all the outstanding shares of Aker Plastics Inc., said to be the third largest U.S. manufacturer of fiberglass bathroom equipment with annual sales of around $75 million. Aker operates two plants in Plymouth, Ind., and one in Martinsburg, W.Va. Closing was scheduled for Oct. 25.

SPS To Open Plumbing And Heating Showroom

SPS Co.'s Mankato, Minn., branch -- Minnesota Standard Showplace -- has completed its 2,000-plus-sq. ft. PHC showroom. The plumbing section consists of seven bathrooms in different layouts and designs, with 100 faucets, 30 bath and kitchen sinks, and all bathroom accessories. The heating section has an operating in-floor radiant heating system, as well as two installed boiler systems.

Anvil Donates To MCAA Foundation

Anvil International recently donated $25,000 to the Mechanical Contractors Foundation, which supports programs, projects and studies dedicated to the advancement of the mechanical industry's knowledge and professional performance.

Symmons Redesigns Web Site

Symmons Industries redesigned its Web site, www.symmons.com, to include product information, specifications and installation instructions, catalogs, where-to-buy information, job postings and an archive of news releases. Features such as complete searching capabilities and separate sections for commercial and residential products remain on the site.

Uponor Wirsbo Names New Marketing Director

Uponor Wirsbo named Dale Stroud as its new director of marketing. Prior to this position he was the vice president of marketing at Able Manufacturing and Assembly.