GSI expects this acquisition to further strengthen its position in the poultry equipment market by offering customers the world class product lines of both its Cumberland and the Hired Hand brands. The newly combined organization will provide customers with the best of both companies, offering greater product breadth and increased service capabilities.

"GSI is excited to welcome Hired Hand to our world class team," said Al Deutsch, President of GSI's Protein Division. "Hired Hand has established itself as a leader in the poultry equipment market, and by combining this great company with our Cumberland business, we offer our customers and distributors access to the best products and service available. We also know that the combination of these two great teams creates a company that will continue to innovate and grow in a way that will bring even better products and solutions to our customers."

"We are very excited for our Ag business to become part of such a diversified and strong company," said Shawn Crider, President and CEO of Hired Hand. "This acquisition will give our products an even broader exposure to the worldwide market as well as align our business with a company that is committed to enhancing its leadership position in the poultry industry."

Founded in 1978, Hired Hand has become a market-leading company, offering a diverse product line including structures, ventilation, heating, cooling and electronic control systems to the livestock and horticulture industries. Its products also include portable evaporative cooling systems for outdoor events and gatherings. In addition, Hired Hand produces its patented RollSeal doors and sidewalls for use in multiple applications and industries.

With over 36 years of experience in the protein production and grain storage, conditioning and material handling industries, the GSI Group is a world-wide leader in the design and manufacture of agricultural equipment. GSI manufactures a full line of poultry and swine production equipment including feeding and watering systems, feed delivery and storage equipment, ventilation systems, heaters, and controllers that are sold around the world to leading protein production companies. In addition, GSI is the global leader in grain storage, conditioning and material handling equipment.