is to be merged into a single firm, named Bermuda Elevator Systems.

Mr. Anthony F. Smith, president of Bermuda Elevator Systems, said: "This merger will create a stronger company that will combine financial and human resources to better meet the requirements of customers in Bermuda.'' Previously, the two companies divided the tasks of installation and servicing.

"There are financial, as well as communications advantages to the merger,'' said Mr. Smith. "Customer communications is an important aspect of the operation as we will service every elevator that we install. They last for the life time of the building.'' The merger, which takes effect immediately, has been endorsed by Dover Elevator Systems Inc., a subsidiary of Dover Corporation -- the largest elevator company in North America.

Bermuda Elevator Systems has held the Dover Elevator Systems' sole distributorship in Bermuda since 1986.

Bermuda Elevator Systems estimates that it handles about 30 percent of the elevator service and installation market in Bermuda. The merged company will install new elevators and escalators, modernise older elevators, and maintain elevators and escalators.

Bermuda Elevator Company was founded in 1979, and installed its first elevator in Global House, Church Street.

Since then, an estimated 50 elevators have been installed by the company in prime locations, such as Jardine House, and Corner House in Hamilton.

ELEVATOR MERGER -- Mr. Leo Cole, international sales manager of Memphis-based Dover Elevator Systems, pictured at left with Mr. Anthony Smith, president of Bermuda Elevator Systems, this week endorsed the merger of A.F. Smith's two elevator companies while visiting the Island.