API ACQUIRES RELIANCE FIRE PROTECTION

Jan. 6, 2010 - At years end APi Group Inc. sealed the deal to acquire Reliance Fire Protection Inc., APi's third and final acquisition in 2009.

Reliance specializes in non-residential fire sprinkler design, fabrication, installation, repair, inspection testing and counter sales. It is believed to be the second largest union contractor and the second largest fire protection contractor in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, and surrounding areas.

“Reliance represents a nice complement to our geographic footprint,” said APi Group CEO and President, Russ Becker. “The company has great people and a solid reputation in the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore areas.”

Since its founding in 1987, the company's high performance and commitment to state-of-the-art design technology has enabled Reliance to grow into an industry leader within the Mid-Atlantic region. It has developed an active repeat client base with more than 30 clients.

Reliance has versatility and experience in new and retrofit of government, healthcare, commercial, institutional and industrial construction.

The company employs nearly 100 people and enjoys low employee turnover.

“The management of Reliance Fire Protection is excited about being associated with APi Group,” said Reliance President and intended CEO, Dave Shilling. Since his initial conversations with APi executives, it was obvious the two companies shared business values such as integrity and customer satisfaction.

“Reliance has strived to provide a quality product to our customers,” Shilling said. “As a part of APi Group, we expect to enhance this commitment and we look forward to business growth.”

Reliance occupies an 18,000-square-foot office and fabrication facility located in Baltimore, MD. The facility helps to serve operations in Delaware, MD, Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia.

The company has completed many rewarding projects including the Comcast Center Arena at the University of Maryland and the Main U.S. Treasury Building. Reliance is currently working on a Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) project at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland.

APi executives expect to add another four to five companies in 2010.

“We will be patient while searching for companies that add value to our existing operation by further complementing our footprint or provide a unique niche in the specialty contracting market,” Becker said.

To learn more about Reliance Fire Protection, please visit RELIANCEFIREPROTECTION.COM