PIP Global Inc. (“PIP”) announced the acquisition of California- based Hearos LLC (“Hearos”), along with its recognized brands of hearing protection. Proudly joining the PIP team will be Hearos’ founder, Doug Pick, who launched the Hearos® brand in 1992, as well as his entire leadership team.

“This is a very significant deal,” stated Joe Milot, President and CEO of PIP. “Together with the Hearos team, we are now a leading manufacturer of innovative ear plug technologies,” he adds, referring to

Hearos’ state-of-the art, high capacity manufacturing facility. The Hearos acquisition is an important step in realizing PIP’s mission of being the leader in the consumable safety products industry.

Doug Pick, who will now serve as the President of Business Development for Hearos, describes this new venture as a turning point for the company. “Joe Milot and the team at Audax Private Equity share our passion and can provide the necessary investments to drive exponential growth for the future.”

Hearos will continue to operate out of its California location, marketing and selling its brands of ear plugs to retail and specialty market channels that include hardware, grocery, food and drug as well as general merchandisers.

PIP will market the products to the industrial safety channels globally through its extensive distributor network.

About Pip Global

PIP Global Inc.’s mission of “Bringing the Best of the World to You®” is fulfilled everyday by way of its portfolio of companies and brands. Protective Industrial Products (PIP) is a leader in providing personal protective equipment to wholesalers and distributors in the industrial safety channels. Safety Works®, along with its leading brands: Brahma®; Mud®; and West County Gardener® provide consumers in the retail channel safety products and protective gloves for work and garden care. Additional information about PIP Global is available at www.pipglobal.com.

Since its founding in 1999 Audax Private Equity has been focused on building leading middle market companies. Audax has invested $5 billion in 117 platform and 709 add-on companies. Through its disciplined Buy & Build approach, Audax seeks to help platform companies execute add- on acquisitions that fuel revenue growth, optimize operations and significantly increase equity value. For more information visit the Audax website www.audaxgroup.com.

Hearos LLC is a California-based manufacturer of innovative foam ear plugs. Hearos’ ear plugs are recognized to provide optimal protection, fit and feel. Hearos® and its sister brand, Sleep Pretty in Pink®, are two of the most successfully marketed ear plug brands globally, having been featured on national TV, radio, print and throughout the internet. For more information visit www.hearos.com.