Thompson Group Acquires AIT

The Thompson Group announced Tuesday that it has acquired process analytical instruments maker Applied Instrument Technologies (AIT) of Pomona, Calif., for an undisclosed amount.

AIT, a Hamilton Sundstrand Corp. business, will be organized as a standalone company within The Thompson Group. AIT manufactures process analytical instruments, including Fourier transform infrared analyzers, near-infrared analyzers, mass spectrometers, process gas spectrographs and Raman analyzers used in the refining, petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical and steel industries to optimize their production processes.

Thompson said AIT will continue to be co-located within Hamilton Sundstrand's Pomona facility through the remainder of the year as it transitions to a nearby new facility; AIT expects to move into its new facility in early 2011.

"With a diverse array of engineering, scientific, manufacturing and test capabilities, AIT looks forward to expanding its ability to provide unique applications and products to our customers."said Joe LaConte, AIT president.

Based in Kalispell, the Thompson Group was founded by Raymon F. Thompson, an entrepreneur in the semiconductor industry and the recent controlling shareholder in a $375 million equipment manufacturer.

For more information, visit: www.hs-ait.com