Johnson Controls joint venture recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency

PLYMOUTH, MICH. , Dec. 9, 2013 – Bridgewater Interiors, a joint venture of Johnson Controls, a global multi-industrial company with core businesses in the automotive and building industries, was honored recently by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) with its 2013 Minority Manufacturer of the Year Award.

The nationally recognized award was accepted by Ron Hall, Sr., Bridgewater Interiors president and CEO, during a ceremony this week in Washington, D.C.

 “It’s an honor to accept MBDA’s 2013 Minority Manufacturer of the Year Award,” said Hall.  “It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire Bridgewater team and their commitment to our customers and the community we serve.”

Each year, the Minority Manufacturer of the Year Award is presented to a minority-owned firm that has achieved significant success in employing new and innovative techniques that led to a significant increase in market share, job growth and customer satisfaction.

Bridgewater Interiors, a certified minority business enterprise, is a Detroit-based automotive interiors supplier created in 1998 as a joint venture between Johnson Controls and Epsilon Technologies. The company specializes in just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing and supplies interior products for General Motors, Ford Motor Co., Chrysler and Honda, including seating and overhead and center console systems.

The MBDA recognized Bridgewater for having the most progressive technologies, equipment and a highly skilled team, making it a leader in the manufacturing industry.

About Johnson Controls:

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2013, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #14 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience:

Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With 240 locations worldwide, we are where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of our products, from single components to complete interiors. With our global capability, we supply approximately 50 million cars per year.

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CONTACT:  
Mary Kay Dodero
734-254-7704
mary.kay.dodero@jci.com