Somerset, PA (January 16, 2001). J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers, a division of Somerset Welding and Steel, Inc., and a leading manufacturer of dump bodies and trailers, today announced the completion of an additional 120,000 square foot facility in Somerset, PA. The new plant contains 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space and 20,000 square feet for administrative offices and training classrooms. The addition of this plant gives the company a total capacity of over 260,000 square feet to manufacture dump truck bodies, trailers, and specialty equipment.

The new facility will allow J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers to increase production to meet expected market demand. Jerry Johnson, Vice President of Somerset Welding & Steel, commented, "We know the current downward trend in our industry is only temporary, and this plant positions us as a company that is ready to supply customers with the truck equipment they will need to move their businesses into profitability. The additional plant will let us better serve these customers with faster turnaround time, expand our market share, and build quality truck equipment with state-of-the-art manufacturing processes." S. William Riggs, President of Somerset Welding & Steel added, "It will also allow us to enter more international markets where potential business is very promising."

The new plant is fully operational and opened in December of 2000. It was designed and equipped with the most innovative technologies available on the market today. Computerized statistical control processes, new manufacturing equipment, and ISO 9001 quality procedures will guarantee customers quality built truck equipment and timely delivery schedules.

Somerset Welding and Steel, Inc. is a subsidiary of Riggs Industries and was founded in 1958. The company specializes in building aluminum and steel dump bodies for light, medium, and heavy chassis used in construction and other applications. They also build aluminum and heavy-duty steel trailers for rock hauling and demolition and excavation work. In addition, they manufacture walking floor refuse trailers, tippers, and push outs for the waste industry. J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers is an ISO 9001 certified company, serving clients worldwide.

For more information, please contact Shahira Hoffman, Marketing Manager, J&J Truck Bodies & Trailers, 422 Riggs Road, Somerset, PA, 15501, USA, 814.443.1691, ext. 355, 800.262.6578, email skh@lseci.com and/or visit www.jjbodies.com.