Lear Corporation, a leading supplier of automotive seating and electrical power management systems, announced today that it has signed an agreement to acquire automotive fabrics manufacturer Guilford Mills

Guilford, which is owned by Cerberus Capital Management, L.P, has been a supplier of fabrics to automotive and technical textile markets for over 40 years and has expertise in fabric design, development, warping, knitting, dyeing, finishing and lamination. The deal is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2012 and is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

"The acquisition of Guilford is another step in Lear's strategy to strengthen our core businesses by expanding our component capabilities," said Matt Simoncini, Lear's President and CEO.

"This acquisition adds global fabric design and development resources, as well as technical expertise to our existing seat trim capabilities in emerging markets and fabric production in Asia. By acquiring Guilford, we will enhance the value and quality that we are able to provide to our customers and increase opportunities for future business growth."

Guilford has annual sales of approximately $400 million, with 85% from automotive applications.  Guilford's Automotive Division produces fabrics for a number of automotive interior applications, including seat fabric.  The company is thought to have strong relationships with virtually all of the major global car manufacturers including BMW, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen.

Guilford's Specialty Products Division produces high-technology fabrics for diverse end markets including water filtration, window covering, performance apparel, medical and other industrial applications.

"We appreciate the efforts of the Cerberus team in restructuring and implementing operational improvements since purchasing Guilford in 2004.  Cerberus also has continued to deliver operational excellence and superior customer service while completing this transaction," added Simoncini.

"Lear is a world-class company, and this transaction ensures that Guilford will have excellent opportunities as part of one of the world's leading suppliers to the automotive industry," said Dev Kapadia, a Cerberus Managing Director.

"We are proud to have contributed to Guilford's significant accomplishments, from rationalizing its manufacturing footprint to introducing new industry leading products to developing a high performing and growth focused management team.  The sale to Lear fulfils one of our key objectives, which is to position this business with a leading entity which will take Guilford to an even higher level of performance and success."

Commenting on the acquisition Chad Brooks, Guilford's President said: "This transaction marks a significant positive development in Guilford's history.  Lear's global scale and strong market position will provide additional opportunities to increase our business globally.  We look forward to joining Lear and working together to further develop and grow our global fabric capabilities."