Masco Acquires O.C.’s Behr and 4 Other Firms

Behr Process Corp., one of Orange County’s largest private companies and a major manufacturer of paints, stains and varnishes, has been acquired by Masco Corp., the nation’s largest maker of kitchen cabinets and bathroom fixtures, both companies said Wednesday.

Masco officials would not disclose how much they paid for Santa Ana-based Behr, but said the company was one of five major Home Depot Inc. suppliers that Taylor, Mich.-based Masco acquired Wednesday. Behr, along with West Palm Beach, Fla.-based Mill’s Pride, are the two largest companies involved in the deal, with about $1 billion in combined revenue.

“Behr is one of the best-managed companies and is a leading company in terms of brand awareness with consumers,” said Masco spokesman Samuel Cypert. “This is exactly the kind of company that Masco likes to acquire.”

Behr, which has more than 1,000 employees, is a 52-year-old family- owned company that has grown dramatically since becoming a supplier for Home Depot two decades ago.

Behr will keep intact its name, headquarters, management team and employees, including about 500 in Santa Ana. Masco “will permit us to maintain our own culture and independence,” said Ron Lazof, Behr’s chief executive. He declined to disclose Behr’s annual sales, which are estimated to be as much as $350 million, or its profit.

Masco spent $3.5 billion in stock and cash for the five companies and assumed $300 million in debt.

Masco shares rose 75 cents to close at $29.06 on the New York Stock Exchange.