Armstrong World Industries, Inc. announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with McKinstry by making an equity investment in its Overcast Innovations venture. Overcast Innovations offers integrated building solutions, including prefabricated ceiling cloud systems, modular grid platforms and engineering design services, to reduce waste and inefficiencies in the built environment. The partnership and investment are expected to accelerate Overcast's growth through access to Armstrong's portfolio of ceiling solutions and go-to-market platform.

The innovative, integrated modular ceiling systems designed and manufactured by Overcast Innovations address some of the most significant challenges facing building owners, architects, designers and contractors. These challenges include skilled labor shortages, the need for energy-saving materials and design, as well as the increasing complexity of installing the systems, devices and components needed to meet today's tenant requirements. Overcast engages with architects to integrate mechanical HVAC, lighting, audiovisual components, sensors, smoke detectors and other above-ceiling equipment into these factory-manufactured architectural ceiling solutions.

In connection with the transaction, Armstrong has entered into a purchase agreement reflecting an initial equity investment in Overcast of approximately 20%, with future rights to increase its ownership interest. Additionally, Armstrong and McKinstry have both entered into strategic partnership agreements with Overcast to collaborate on supply arrangements, marketing and communications and sales for Overcast's integrated building solutions.