Laguna Clay Co. recently completed its asset purchase of Thorley Refractories, Inc. "For nearly 60 years, Thorley has been a leading manufacturer of kiln furniture for schools, artists, potters and industry," said Jon Brooks, president of Laguna Clay. "Laguna feels fortunate to add the Thorley name and refractories to the broad selection of products we manufacture for the ceramic industry." David Pegg, president of Thorley Refractories, said, "While it is difficult to leave something that has been near and dear to me and my family for so many years, we couldn't have found a better fit than with Laguna Clay Co. Blending our reputation and our expertise in manufacturing refractories with Laguna's distribution network and their respected position in the industry makes this a natural fit." Jim Kassebaum, Laguna's general manager, said, "Although administrative activities have been moved to Laguna, Thorley shelves and posts will continue to be made in South Gate by the same people who have made them for years. We have some exciting plans for the future, but first and foremost we want to ensure that Thorley customers continue to receive quality products in a timely manner."

For additional information, e-mail thorleyrefractories@lagunaclay.com .