By Harold Bearden
Thursday, April 16, 2015 | 2:04 AM
https://hbtv.us/news/?story_id=2601
The news last week about the acquisition of American Recreational Products (ARP) by Exxel Outdoors, LLC was good news for the Haleyville area. It will mean more jobs in the future. CEO and one of the founders Harry Kazazian explained. "As a result of the ARP acquisition, its going to mean a lot of success, its going to mean a lot of jobs for Haleyville. And the reason we say that is we looking at expanding this facility, doing a lot more investment in the plant, and looking at more opportunities. Because what ARP brings to Exxel Outdoors is iconic brands, that are sold to higher end retailers that we currently at Exxel don't have access to. So, having that ability opens up a whole other market to this facility, which up until now has not been available."
Everyone talked about the importance of Barbara Garrison, who was instrumental in keeping the company here in Haleyville and keeping the production at Exxel Outdoors ahead of expectations of the owners.