Heath E. Combs
Company says it likely will close Gusdorf plant but will service existing customers

MONTREAL — Techcraft Mfg., a ready-to-assemble furniture maker and OEM resource based here, has acquired bankrupt competitor Gusdorf Canada for an undisclosed amount.

The operations of Laval, Quebec-based Gusdorf will be integrated into Techcraft to “ensure seamless continuity of product shipments and product development for Gusdorf’s customers,” Techcraft said today in a release.

“We are currently working with Gusdorf’s customers to determine how best to proceed
on both existing orders and new business,” said Paul M. Sabbah vice president of business development for Techcraft.

The Gusdorf factory in Laval is expected to close, Sabbah said.

In 2004, Techcraft purchased Paramount Furniture Mfg., a producer of assembled bedroom and occasional furniture. Techcraft said its main U.S. customers are Sears, Circuit City, HH Gregg, Ultimate Electronics, R.C. Willey, Rex TV, BrandsMart and PC Richards. The company also designs and manufactures private-label TVs for the consumer electronics industry.

“We are extremely excited to add Gusdorf to our growing stable of brands, and look forward to servicing our new customers.” said Techcraft President Danny Berthelet in the release. “As we continue to grow our business and diversify our product mix, this acquisition fits in perfectly with our strategic plan.”

In April, Gusdorf filed for bankruptcy protection. The company owed about C$9 million to creditors, according to documents filed with the Ministère de la Justice Quebec. Martin P. Rosenthal of Ernst and Young was named interim receiver by the courts.

Rosenthal said last week that pricing pressures from Chinese imports had hurt Gusdorf.