Kansas City, MO — On December 22, 2004, ROM Acquisition Corporation, a newly-formed entity controlled by Hampshire Equity Partners ("Hampshire"), acquired ROM Corporation ("ROM") in an asset purchase transaction. Based in Kansas City, Missouri, ROM is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of innovative niche products used in the transportation and trucking industries.

ROM's current portfolio of products serves several key end markets, such as the fire truck, food distribution and military vehicle markets. Products include: shutter door mechanisms that provide quick access to equipment; ramps that are used to load and unload goods; and insulated bulkhead dividers that are used to maintain different temperatures on refrigerated foodservice trailers. The Company has leading market positions within each of its core markets, and the ROM products have strong brand recognition.

A Kansas City businessman, Jim Pace, had been the sole owner of the Company since 1973. Looking to retire, Mr. Pace wanted to sell ROM to an investor group that was committed to furthering his growth initiatives while maintaining the Company's strategic independence. Hampshire has worked closely with Mr. Pace to transition the business to new ownership.

Hampshire expects to grow ROM organically by continuing the Company's tradition of product innovation and focus on excellence in customer service, and will explore acquisitions of additional product lines that would benefit ROM's customer base.