Underwriters Laboratories acquiring Springboard

Underwriters Laboratories is acquiring Springboard Engineering, an Iowa company founded by former Maytag engineers and designers.

The Des Moines Register is reporting that the deal for the Newton company is expected to close by the end of this month. Terms are not being disclosed. Both companies are privately held.

Underwriters Laboratories is a global safety company based in Northbrook. Springboard was founded after Whirlpool acquired Maytag and decided to close the Newton operation.

Springboard has about 50 employees now. Springboard President Jordan Bruntz says Springboard will remain in Newton. Springboard tests and helps design products for companies. Sajeev Jesudas is president of UL Verification Services. He says the acquisition will let Underwriters strengthen its ability to serve customers in the HVAC, appliances and components segments.