Hearth & Home Technologies Continues Southern California Expansion

Acquires Fireplace Distributors

-- Casual Living, 12/12/2005 8:13:00 AM

Hearth & Home Technologies Inc., a leading fireplace manufacturer and a subsidiary of HNI Corporation, has acquired the assets of Fireplace Distributors Inc., located in Riverside, Calif.

The acquisition will position Hearth & Home Technologies as the premier provider of hearth products and services in the region.

"Southern California has historically been one of the strongest new construction markets in the country," said Brad Determan, president, Hearth & Home Technologies. "This acquisition reflects an ongoing commitment to enhance our ability to service the needs of builders and consumers. By incorporating Fireplace Distributors' specialized talent and resources into our fully integrated distribution network, we'll stand out as Southern California's hearth experts and single source solution for product selection, installation and service."

Hearth & Home Technologies will operate the newly acquired business under its Fireside Hearth & Home distribution brand. This Fireside Hearth & Home location will offer Heatilator and Heat & Glo brand products and retain the 45 employees as well as owners Don Bowker and Lisa Vidargar, who will continue to manage the location in the high-quality manner builders and consumers have come to expect.

The acquisition of Fireplace Distributors adds a third Fireside Hearth & Home location in the Southern California market.

Other Fireside Hearth & Home locations in Southern California include Gardena and Valencia.