GENERAL TOOLS ANNOUNCES PRODUCT LINE EXPANSION
Acquisitions Expand Markets for Specialty Tools

General Tools & Instruments Co. a leading supplier of specialty hand tools for the Hardware, Woodworking, Machining, Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC/R industries announces a major product line expansion through the acquisition of two synergistic product development companies; Simp'l Products, Inc. and Mannix Test & Measurement.

In a move to solidify its position in the woodworking tools market, General Tools acquired innovative tool manufacturer Simp'l Products. In Simp'l Products, General has acquired a line of patented woodworking tools and jigs for both professionals and do-it-yourselfers. These tools fit seamlessly alongside their already popular line of woodworking tools, which have been relied upon by craftsmen and carpenters for decades.

The acquisition of Mannix Test & Measurement greatly expands General's markets with the addition of over 650 test and measurement instruments. Mannix handheld test instruments are widely used by professionals in the HVAC/R, Plant Maintenance, Building Maintenance, Home Inspection, Electrical, Electronic, Occupational Health & Safety, Sports Medicine, Agriculture and Laboratory markets.

"We are excited about the expansion of the General Tools product line, said Joe Ennis, President and CEO of General. "Our recent acquisitions and supply of new products embodies General's commitment of providing new and unique product offerings on a continual basis."

About General Tools and Instruments Company:
Headquartered in New York City for more than 85 years, General Tools is a leader in specialty hand tools.  Its expanding product line of more than 2000 plumbing, woodworking, machinist, measuring and inspection specialty tools are used by industry professionals, technicians and do-it-yourselfers worldwide. All General Tools are distributed through leading representatives, distributors, retailers and OEMs. In light of recent corporate acquisitions and the expansion of the product line to include over 650 electronic test instruments, General Tools Mfg., Co. changed its name to General Tools and Instruments.