Mapei Group and Polyglass Group have joined forces in a partnership designed to strengthen both companies. The deal was announced at Italy’s Saie 2008 construction show and at the Las Vegas International Roofing Expo.

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. - Mapei Group and Polyglass Group have joined forces in a partnership designed to strengthen both companies. The deal was announced at Italy’s Saie 2008 construction show and at the Las Vegas International Roofing Expo.

Mapei Group, with $2.2 billion in annual sales and 53 manufacturing plants in 24 countries, produces adhesives for building applications. Polyglass is a leader in self-adhesive roofing membranes based on the company’s patented ADESO technology. Both companies are rooted in Italy, with more than half of all Polyglass’ $160 million global sales taking place through the company’s U.S. division based in Fernley, Nev.

“This is a marriage between two companies which, despite their difference in size, share many values,” said Polyglass USA CEO Andrew Hastings. “This merger will make Polyglass stronger and allow us to not only expand our services and product lines here in the U.S., but also grow in markets throughout the world that we might not have been able to thrive in previously.” Hastings added that despite the current economic downturn, Polyglass has positive expectations for the company’s growth in 2009 and beyond. In 2007, Polyglass opened a third U.S. manufacturing facility in Winter Haven, Fla. The plant is fully operational and joins other Polyglass facilities in Hazelton, Pa., and Fernley, Nevada.

“We pursue an organic growth in all markets, while considering interesting acquisitions whenever possible,” said Mapei Group CEO Giorgio Squinzi. “Through Polyglass we will be able to significantly complete our waterproofing line for the building industry.” For more information, visitwww.polyglass.com.