Seven major brick companies from across the continent recently officially became part of the new Hanson Brick. The Charlotte-based company, which sells more than 1.6 billion brick per year, has 22 plants in Texas, Kentucky, Michigan, the Carolinas and Canada. "For Hanson Brick, it's not just about being bigger; it's about being better," said Richard Manning, president and CEO of Hanson Brick and Tile. "Under Hanson Brick's new North American brand, customers will get superb quality, variety and value -- no matter where they live or what product they choose." The integration of the seven companies was a huge undertaking that began in 1999, when Hanson Building Materials America, a subsidiary of London-based Hanson plc, acquired seven major brick companies. Hanson Brick integrates Boren Brick (North Carolina), Richtex Brick (South Carolina), Sipple Brick (Kentucky), Michigan Brick (Michigan), U.S. Brick (Texas), Canada Brick (Ontario) and Briqueterie St. Laurent (Quebec).

For additional information, visit the newly launched http://www.hansonbrick.com .