MSA Affiliate Is the Largest Safety Equipment Supplier in Africa

Mine Safety Appliances Co. (Pittsburgh) announced this week that its MSA Africa affiliate has purchased the Campbell Gardwel division of Klipton Ltd. The purchase of Campbell Gardwel, a South African maker of personal protective equipment, makes MSA Africa the largest supplier of safety equipment in Africa, with product lines ranging from mine lighting to portable instruments, breathing apparatus, and personal protective equipment.

Campbell Gardwel projects 1999 sales of 74 million South African Rand, or about $11.84 million a year in US dollars. When the purchase is complete, the combined organization will employ 350 people.

"This acquisition is an important step in continuing to fulfill MSA's vision of providing a safer tomorrow, and positions MSA to expand further in the international arena," said John T. Ryan III, MSA chairman and CEO. "We welcome the Campbell Gardwel employees to the MSA family."

"The Campbell Gardwel acquisition provides a critical link in realizing our overall growth strategy for Africa by providing excellent new staff and complementary product lines," added George W. Steggles, Senior Vice President of MSA. "We're confident of a successful integration because of the cultural alignment between Campbell Gardwel and MSA."

MSA has sales and manufacturing operations throughout the US and has 28 international affiliates.