W.H. Smith acquires LaBarge product lines

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PARKERSBURG, W.Va., March 11 (UPI) -- W.H. Smith Co. reports it has completed acquisition of intellectual property rights and related assets made for the U.S. military by LaBarge Products Inc.

Among the systems acquired by W.H. Smith are Labarge's U.S. Marine Corps hose reel system; Army assault hoseline system; rapidly installed fuel transfer system; 350 GPM trailer-mounted pump system; 600 GPM trailer mounted pump system; Army combat ballistic shield kits; and the Camel 800 gallon water trailer.

"This acquisition is important as it significantly increases the capabilities of W.H. Smith and further expands our efforts to provide full systems to the U.S. armed forces and allied nations," said Eric Jenkusky, director of business development for W.H. Smith.

"Furthermore, the acquisition provides us with valuable intellectual property that can be modified for use in commercial industries, particularly the Utica and Marcellus Shale oil and gas exploration marketplace."

As part of the deal, W.H. Smith acquired the use of the LaBarge Products trade name, phone and fax numbers and website.

W.H. Smith is a manufacturer and supplier of hose assemblies, hose systems, load securing and material handling products for the U.S. military and commercial sector.

LaBarge announced recently that it was closing due to lack of new business.