Astro Shapes Acquires Local Extruder Aerolite

STRUTHERS, Ohio – The staff representative for a United Steelworkers local says the acquisition of Boardman-based Aerolite Extrusion Co. by Astro Shapes LLC. stands to build business, plant capacity, and membership in the union.

“We could be one of the biggest bargaining units in northeastern Ohio,” said Jose Arroyo, staff representative for USW Local 9401, which represents 465 workers at Astro Shapes’ plant here.

Arroyo said he was informed of the purchase Tuesday, adding membership is excited about the prospects of the company expanding its footprint in the Mahoning Valley. Aerolite Extrusion has 65 bargaining unit members who are affiliated with USW Local 1131.

“We’ve had a great relationship with Astro Shapes,” Arroyo said. “Business has been outstanding, and our members are working more overtime than they can dream for.”

Arroyo said he understands that Astro Shapes intends to invest in the Aerolite plant, and meetings with the two unions and management are being scheduled. “We’re very early in the process, here,” he said.

The union representative could not divulge a purchase price, but noted the transaction was an asset sale that included some non-union operations as well. “That’s something we’ll be discussing in the future.”

Aerolite, founded in 1953, provides extrusion, fabrication and finishing services for aluminum products.

Astro Shapes was established in 1971 and operates a 300,000-square-foot plant here. The company’s core market is the building and construction industry. Its aluminum products are found in patio furniture, doors, windows, solariums and railings.

“There are some product lines that are unique to Aerolite, so Astro Shapes will pick up some new customers,” Arroyo said. “It helps Astro Shapes diversity and expands their market share, which is growing. This was a way to increase their product offering and volume.”

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.