In a deal that would bring together the North American operations of two European groups, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics (Aurora, Ohio / USA; www.plastics.saint-gobain.com), a subsidiary of French building products manufacturer Saint-Gobain (Paris; www.saint-gobain.com), has signed an agreement to acquire the San Diego-based Bekaert Speciality Films (BSF, California / USA; http://solargard.com) – itself a business unit of Belgium’s Bekaert Group (Kortrijk; www.bekaert.com). Financial details of the deal, which still has to meet the approval of the relevant anti-trust authorities, were not disclosed. Both groups say they believe the transaction will be closed in 2011 still.

Known also by the name “Solar Gard”, BSF develops, manufactures and distributes coated films for the habitat and automotive markets as well as various industrial applications. Its “Solar Gard” solar control films reduce energy consumption and also protect windows against breakage.

The acquisition allows Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics to extend its range of solutions for energy-efficient building, while simultaneously reinforcing its sales network and leveraging synergies with the French group’s Glass Activity business.

Aside from its plant in San Diego, BFS also operates Solar Gard plants in Zulte / Belgium, Suzhou / China and is in the midst of establishing another Chinese facility. If approved, all relevant employees will transfer to Saint-Gobain.