The assets of Bliss Clearing Niagara, Inc. ("Bliss"), an aftermarket provider of parts for metal forming presses, have been sold to Müller Weingarten AG, one of the world's leading suppliers of metal forming press equipment. Carl Marks Advisory Group LLC ("Carl Marks") advised Bliss in connection with the transaction and provided interim management services to the company.

At the time of the sale, Bliss was the leading supplier of aftermarket parts and service for the Bliss, Clearing and Niagara brands of metal forming presses and employed 67 full-time employees at its headquarters in Hastings, Michigan. Müller Weingarten expects to continue operating the company in Hastings. Bliss commenced operations in 2001 as part of the bankruptcy plan of reorganization of CNB International, Inc.

Dennis Floam, who managed the transaction for Carl Marks, stated, "This is a great day for Bliss employees and their community. With the operational improvements recently implemented, the Bliss business has a terrific future, and the sale to Müller Weingarten helps to ensure that operations will continue. This is a great example of how Carl Marks helps companies to improve their performance and attract qualified buyers." Anthony Accordino, who is a Carl Marks Managing Director, served as Interim President and CEO of Bliss from March 2005 to September 2006.

Contact Dennis J. Floam at (212) 909-8427 or dfloam@carlmarks.com.