Contact:
Lynn Carlisle
Carlisle Communications, Inc.
ljc@carlislecommunications.com

CARON® INTERNATIONAL ACQUIRES HAMPTON ART, LLC

Strategic diversification broadens Caron’s reach in craft market

OCTOBER 31, 2007, WASHINGTON, NC—Caron International announces the acquisition of substantially all assets of New York-based Hampton Art, LLC, a leading supplier of rubber stamps to the arts and crafts market. Bob Gallagher will remain with the company as Vice President of Sales; Kathy Gallagher will continue her work for the company as Director of Licensing and Design.

“We welcome the excellence, professionalism and creativity of Hampton Art and key team members into the growing family of Caron product offerings to the crafting public,” notes Ed Bolen, Vice President and General Manager of Caron International, a division of National Spinning Company. "As we aggressively manage our long-term goal to grow Caron International for all our stakeholders, we look for opportunities such as those offered by a terrific company like Hampton Art, as it leverages our strengths and broadens our reach in the highly diversified craft marketplace,” asserts Bolen.

Ron Gallagher, a founder of Hampton Art, adds, "We look forward to this exciting new era for Hampton Art.  In recent years, we have emerged as a leader in the rubber stamp industry and we are confident that the experienced team at Caron will continue to grow the Hampton Art brand in its tradition of excellence.”

Hampton Art products are currently sold at all of the leading craft chains and independent rubber stamp, scrapbooking and craft stores.

Since 1921, National Spinning Co., parent company of Caron International, has set the standard for spun yarns worldwide, providing leadership in quality, service, and innovation.