General Shale Announces Acquisition of Watsontown Brick Co.

General Shale announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire 110-year-old Watsontown Brick Co. at the end of this year.

The acquisition adds a brick line to General Shale’s masonry products, and expands its presence in the eastern U.S. and Canada.

Headquartered in Watsontown, Penn., Watsontown Brick Co. is a third-generation manufacturer that produces a variety of face, thin and molded bricks, along with pavers, in a range of colors, sizes and shapes. The company initially produced street pavers, which were used on city streets throughout the Northeast, and grew its product line to include residential, commercial and architectural brick products. Watsontown Brick employs approximately 50 individuals and operates three production plants that manufacture 92 million brick units annually.

“We are excited to bring this outstanding company into the General Shale group as this acquisition will only strengthen our position as a leader in the U.S. brick industry,” says Charles Smith, president and CEO of General Shale. “Watsontown Brick will expand General Shale’s presence throughout the Northeast and fortify our strong commercial and architectural platform, providing the opportunity for potential growth in new markets and for future consolidation. Both of our companies are dedicated to maintaining our solid customer and distributor relationships as this will only improve our ability to better serve our customers. We are pleased to welcome Watsontown Brick into the General Shale family.”

Going forward, Watsontown Brick Co. will retain its name as a subsidiary of General Shale. Mike Fisher, former owner of Watsontown Brick, will serve the company in an advisory capacity.