News

January 6, 2004

Norwest Mezzanine Partners Invests $20.0 Million in Longwood Industries, Inc.

Norwest Mezzanine Partners invested $20.0 million of senior subordinated debt inLongwood Industries, Inc. (“Longwood”), a leading producer of a wide range of industrial rubber products that are sold into a diverse collection of end-user markets.  Longwood products include brake diaphragms, exhaust isolators, fuel system seals, shock seals, cementing plugs, hog paddles, pressure and faucet seals, and dock and boat fenders.  Longwood’s diversified product line is sold into various end-markets including the automotive, railroad, food processing, consumer and marine sectors.

Norwest Equity Partners served as the private equity sponsor on this transaction. Visit www.nep.com for more information.

NMP Contact: Neal Sette, 612-215-1689, nsette@nmp.com

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a leading middle market investment focused on partnering with business owners and building companies into industry leaders. With a reputation for quality investments and exceptional financial returns since 1961, NEP manages nearly $5 billion of capital through a series of equity and mezzanine funds. Offering creative and flexible transaction solutions through management buyouts, recapitalizations and growth financings, NEP seeks $30-$150 million equity investment opportunities for growing and profitable companies within the agriculture, applied technology, business services, consumer products and services, distribution, healthcare and industrial industry sectors. NEP is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota; please visit nep.com for more information.