TROY, Mich. — Affinity Tool Works has reached an agreement with tool and accessory manufacturer HTC Products Inc.® to acquire HTC and Portamate®. As of Jan. 14, 2012, Affinity Tool Works will assume ownership of both HTC and Portamate. The move allows Affinity to broaden its already-extensive line of tools and accessories, specifically targeted to niche markets including building and construction, do-it-yourself, remodeling and woodworking.

HTC Sales Director Steve Kuhr, conveyed the news to the company’s dealer network this week saying, “Affinity Tool Works is a well-known and respected company that is fully capable of meeting all of the distribution requirements of our dealer network.”

Mike Ursell, president of Affinity Tool Works, highlighted the benefits to the customer base, stating, “This move benefits the HTC and Portamate customer bases as well as that of Affinity Tool Works by offering an expanded product line and enhanced opportunity for ordering efficiency at the dealer level. “

Adding to Affinity Tool Works’ established knowledge and familiarity with similar products and relevant industries is Ursell’s direct experience working with HTC. He spent ten years as HTC’s director of sales and marketing where his duties included building and maintaining relationships with dealers and other partners, strategic planning and management. While Ursell feels his experience gives Affinity an advantage in understanding the companies and products, his entire team is knowledgeable of the industry and markets, and poised to handle the challenges of the acquisition.

“The team at Affinity Tool Works is well-versed in the inner-workings of distribution channels for the markets served by HTC and Portamate,” Ursell said. “We’re confident in our ability to continue the legacy and uphold the reputation of quality products and outstanding service synonymous with HTC.”

Both Affinity and HTC are committed to making the transition seamless to ensure uninterrupted service to customers. In the beginning weeks, HTC will work closely with Affinity to transfer all key aspects of the dealers and customer service operations.

Since 1980, HTC Products Inc. has been providing quality products for both home and professional worksites in a variety of industries including building and construction, do-it-yourself and woodworking. The complete line is suitable for both novice and professional users, and features a full line of products from mobile bases and roller supports, to a full line of workshop accessories. HTC’s philosophy is based on the company’s mission of improving the way people, tools and work come together.

Portamate products were created specifically for do-it-yourself and home improvement enthusiasts. Hallmarked by the PM7000 Miter Saw Work Center, the full Portamate lineup features tool and miter saw work stands, saw horses, tables, rollers and mobile bases. The Portamate line was designed for functionality, productivity and ease of use, and to give every end-user the ability to have a professional, full-line workshop in even the smallest spaces.

Affinity Tool Works, LLC is a provider of professional tools serving a variety of markets including building and remodeling, do-it-yourself, industrial and woodworking. Product brands under the Affinity umbrella include BORA, FISH, Footprint, Lynx and Tormek. For more information, contact Affinity Tool Works, 1161 Rankin Drive, Troy, MI 48083, call 248-588-0395, or visit the website at www.affinitytool.com. For additional information on HTC and Portamate, visit the websites at www.htcproductsinc.com and www.portamate.com