Signature Control Systems Acquires Turf Division of L.R. Nelson

Signature Control Systems Inc., a manufacturer of intelligent irrigation equipment, announced it has closed the acquisition of L.R. Nelson Corporation’s Turf Division based in Peoria, Ill.

"We are delighted to close the transaction and have begun transitioning the Nelson Turf employees and the assets in earnest," said Brian J. Smith, Signature’s CEO. “This acquisition fits perfectly with our strategy to continue building out our intellectual property portfolio and manufacturing capabilities. While much work lies ahead, we are especially encouraged by the positive response we've received from our customers, employees, distributors and strategic alliance partners. The Nelson Turf product line fits very well with how we've structured the Signature business and this acquisition is clearly complimentary to our already expanding global business."

“We are excited to join Signature, a dynamic company that shares our commitment to deliver innovative technology and compelling user experiences for our industry. With the complimentary effect of the combined product lines, Signature will be able to increase its presence in the residential and commercial irrigation market, globally,” said Roberto Izaguirre, previously Nelson Turf’s President who has been appointed Signature’s new Turf Division executive vice president.

Through this acquisition, Signature expects to strengthen its business within the following areas:

Employees - Signature believes the Nelson Turf employees offer a passion and dedication to its business that fits well with Signature’s mission to be the global leader in its field;

Products and Technologies - Signature acquires premier technology and intellectual property associated with these assets, which represents a strategic growth opportunity for Signature;

Manufacturing – Signature believes that a combined 100,000 sq. ft of manufacturing and operations in Irvine, Calif., and Peoria, Ill., will provide manufacturing capacity, efficiencies and enhanced quality solutions for all of Signature’s plastic, mechanical and electronic manufacturing requirements;

Distribution and Channels - Signature believes this transaction provides an opportunity to bring additional efficiencies to sales operations, broader product selection for all irrigation segments, extension of current relationships, strengthening and expanding the company's presence in foreign markets.

In the last few years, Signature has experienced considerable growth and with an office in France, covering operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa. With regional sales managers fully dedicated to the region, Signature will further strengthen its solid international presence with innovative products, sales and service.

About Signature Control Systems

Signature Control Systems is an industry leader in the design and manufacturing of intelligent equipment for turf-grass site management, including the Constellation and Galaxy line of controllers and eConstellation Online Management System. These products include irrigation controls, PC and web-based site management software.

Signature provides landscape managers, sports turf superintendents, as well as property managers, direct control of irrigation to “Do Anything … From Anywhere.” Signature Control Systems (formerly Union Tools and Thompson Co. and founded in 1907) has been dedicated to providing the highest-quality products and service in the industry, and is currently based in Irvine, Calif. Further information about Signature Control Systems may be obtained through the company's Web site at www.SignatureControlSystems.com.

 
About Nelson Turf

L.R. Nelson’s Turf Division is one of the leading manufacturers of branded professional irrigation products used for residential and commercial applications.  A key player in the commercial turf irrigation industry, the business has built a reputation for innovative, quality products and outstanding customer service. 

Nelson Turf offers a broad line of irrigation products. The product line categories include sprinklers, controllers, valves and accessories, and include the EZ Pro line. Its line of battery-powered programmable controllers, SoloRain, leads the industry in sales, reliability and durability. It is a division of L.R. Nelson Corporation, a watering products and irrigation systems company founded in 1911 and based in Peoria, Ill.