HUNTSVILLE, Ala., June 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ −−LINE−X Protective Coatings, the nation's leading developer and provider of high performance protective coatings and spray−on truck bedliners, along with Graham Partners, today announced that they have assumed controlling interest in one of Detroit's most well−known and leading Tier 1 automotive aftermarket suppliers, Ground Effects Ltd. (GFX). While the details of the new partnership will unfold over the coming months, the combination creates all−new opportunities for LINE−X and GFX to develop aftermarket services and establish support structures through the expansive LINE−X network. This will benefit LINE−X franchisees, automotive manufacturers and their customers. "This is a historic time for LINE−X and our entire family of franchises. The acquisition of GFX puts our company and products directly in front of the greater automotive industry, but more importantly, allows us to offer additional services to our end customer," said Kevin Heronimus, LINE−X CEO. "Our 425+ North American franchises and the automotive manufacturers will undoubtedly benefit from this new partnership, charting a new path for LINE−X for years to come." LINE−X Protective Coatings secured the acquisition of GFX with investment support from Graham Partners. LINE−X has been one of Graham Partners' portfolio companies for the past seven years. LINE−X has developed an incremental and phased program that is set to rollout over the next six months. GFX owns and operates multiple facilities and currently services General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Toyota Motor Sales, and the Chrysler Group.