Thale, Germany, June 24, 2005 – Mertik Maxitrol, an international manufacturer of gas combination controls and safety products, today announced the opening of its new sales office in Abercynon, South Wales. The addition of the new facility and staff is intended to provide additional support for sales efforts in the U.K., and improve Mertik’s ability to expand current business in the British market.

“The strong growth of our gas valves and controls business was our incentive to invest in a new location”, says Larry C. Koskela, Managing Director, Mertik Maxitrol. Mertik’s GV Series combination control systems have been extremely well received by U.K. gas fire manufacturers. Other GV Series applications include: space heaters, ovens, griddle plates, agricultural gas fired heaters, and patio heaters.

“Mertik Maxitrol will introduce its SENTRY gas safety products and Plug1 gas outlet to the UK for 2005”, reports sales representative Mark Godden. “We hope the demand for these products will further grow our business, and strengthen our position as a leading supplier of controls to the UK gas industry.”

Thale, Germany-based Mertik Maxitrol and U.S. affiliate Maxitrol Company are international leaders in the manufacturing of gas combination controls, pressure governors, gas filters and gas safety devices. Mertik Maxitrol has branches in Senden, Germany and Abercynon, South Wales, UK.