Adds new categories and global scale in rapidly growing away-from-home washroom market, Newell Rubbermaid (NYSE:NWL) announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Technical Concepts Holdings, LLC in 2008, (“Technical Concepts”) a leading global provider of innovative restroom hygiene systems for several high-growth segments of the away-from-home (“AFH”) washroom category which was founded in 1987. Technical Concepts’ products include touch-free and automated health, wellness and odor control solutions, as well as proprietary refills, which are a key component of recurring revenue.

The acquisition of Technical Concepts will add substantial scale to Newell Rubbermaid’s Commercial Products global business unit, creating a leading position in the $2.5 billion worldwide AFH washroom category. “Our Rubbermaid Commercial Products brand is a key engine of growth for Newell Rubbermaid,” said Larry Mclsaac, president of Newell Rubbermaid’s commercial Products global business unit.” This acquisition fits our strategy to expend our core platform into product categories where brands matter and customers place a premium on innovation.”

Amid an increasing public concern for hygiene and the transmission of infectious diseases, facilities managers for airport, educational institutions, commercial building and other spaces are installing washroom solutions to provide end-user peace of mind and reduce resource costs. Today, people demand a clean washroom with high-quality soap systems and fresh clean fragrances. Facility managers demand washrooms that are easy to maintain, and provide reliable performance. And business owners know that people like to patronize business that provides a clean hygienic washroom. Whether you are a building owner, facility manager, building material distributor, or building or washroom service provider, Technical Concepts helps to deliver strong clean image washrooms with effective maintenance cost & improved environmental performance.