Automotive supplier recognized by the nonprofit coalition for its commitment to workforce diversity

DETROIT (June 20, 2012) – Bridgewater Interiors, LLC – a joint venture between Johnson Controls, Inc and Detroit-based Epsilon Technologies, LLC – was presented with New Detroit’s “Closing the Gap” Corporate Award yesterday at the annual “Closing the Gap” Awards Dinner. Bridgewater Interiors is a certified minority business enterprise by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council.

The awards are presented by the nonprofit coalition each year to an individual, an organization and a corporation that have made a positive impact to improve race relations in metro Detroit.

“It’s an honor to be recognized for our commitment to a diverse workforce,” said Ron Hall, president and chief executive officer of Bridgewater Interiors. “Our success in the automotive industry is a testament to the talents and hard work of our employees and their dedication to producing quality products for our automaker customers.”

“Each year New Detroit selects “Closing the Gap” Award honorees to recognize those that have established a track record of working successfully to improve race relations in our region,” said Shirley Stancato, president and CEO of New Detroit. “Each of this year’s honorees has played a unique role toward that goal with years of effort and has demonstrated through their individual achievements what true commitment to change can achieve.”

New Detroit is a private, nonprofit organization. Its mission is to work as the coalition of Detroit area leadership addressing race relations by positively impacting issues and policies that ensure economic and social equity. For more information, please visit www.newdetroit.org.

About Johnson Controls:
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 162,000 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 2012, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #5 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.

About Bridgewater Interiors, LLC
Established in 1998, Bridgewater Interiors, LLC is a joint venture between Detroit-based Epsilon Technologies, LLC and Johnson Controls, Inc., a leading automotive seating, interiors and electronics supplier. Bridgewater Interiors employs more than 1,800 people at four locations in the United States, serving General Motors, Ford, Chrysler and Honda. Bridgewater Interiors is a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), certified by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council, under the auspices of the National Minority Supplier Development Council. As a premier Johnson Controls joint venture and certified MBE, Bridgewater Interiors is leading supplier diversity in the automotive industry with a focus on quality, service, technology and price. For additional information, please visit http://www.bridgewater-interiors.com

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CONTACT:

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