Specialty glazing contractor Harmon Inc., a subsidiary of Minneapolis-based Apogee Enterprises Inc., has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase the assets of Architectural Wall Solutions Inc. (AWallS). AWallS is the ninth largest commercial glass installation business in the United States, based in the Chicago suburb of Bolingbrook, Ill. This transaction, part of Apogee's strategy to strengthen and grow its architectural business segment, is expected to close by the end of December, subject to customary conditions. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

According to a Harmon news release, the acquisition is expected to add approximately $25 million in annual revenue to Harmon, which already ranks as the largest U.S. full-service building glass installation, maintenance and renovation company. The purchase will include AWallS' backlog of business, which is primarily in the Chicago and Seattle markets where the company has operations.

Harmon announced that it intends to hire the AWallS staff, including two AWallS executives, Dennis Pilkinton and Tom Niepokoj, as well as other operations, sales and project management personnel. Pilkinton will join Harmon's Jim Mroz as vice president of operations, while Niepokoj will fill the position of vice president for new construction sales.

"This acquisition will enable Harmon to reach more customers in more locations, further strengthen our management team and further enhance our operations," said Chuck Mowrey, president of Harmon. "It clearly demonstrates the value Apogee places on Harmon and reflects a continued commitment to our company, our people and our customers."

Russell Huffer, Apogee chairman and chief executive officer, agreed.

"The purchase of AWallS brings a strong organization that augments the strengths within Harmon," Huffer said. "We will fill some critical organization needs with key AWallS executives who will assist with our growth strategies and our ongoing efforts to improve the predictability and profitability of Harmon. In addition, we will gain glass installation market share as we add to our presence in the Midwest and enter the Northwest market."