AFL to acquire Verrillon Inc.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2010 -- AFL has agreed to acquire Verrillon Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of specialty optical fibers in the oil and gas, avionics, and industrial markets. The acquisition enhances AFL’s portfolio of fiber-optic products, adding specialty optical fiber to its portfolio. In addition to reinforcing AFL’s leadership position in downhole fiber-optic cable, this acquisition provides AFL access to other specialty fiber markets, including industrial and sensing, says a company representative.

Sept. 22, 2010

SEPTEMBER 21, 2010 -- AFL has agreed to acquire Verrillon Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of specialty optical fibers in the oil and gas, avionics, and industrial markets. The acquisition enhances AFL’s portfolio of fiber-optic products, adding specialty optical fiber to its portfolio. In addition to reinforcing AFL’s position in downhole fiber-optic cable, this acquisition provides AFL access to other specialty fiber markets, including industrial and sensing, says a company representative.

With manufacturing operations in North Grafton, Mass., Verrillon specializes in designing and customizing specialized fibers for harsh environments, including hermetic, high-temperature, polarization-maintaining, and rare-earth doped fibers.

“Verrillon and AFL offer complementary products to various markets. By bringing the two teams together, we are well positioned to take full advantage of the growing markets we serve while reinforcing our commitment to the industry and to our customers,” says Dr. Abdel Soufiane, pesident and CEO of Verrillon.

With the close of the acquisition, Dr. Soufiane will remain with AFL as managing director and CTO.

AFL manufactures fiber-optic cables and components in Spartanburg, S.C., the United Kingdom, and Germany. Verrillon will continue to operate its current facility in Mass. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.