THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC, DEFS14A, 1998-07-24

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC
DEFS14A, 1998-07-24
ELECTRIC LIGHTING & WIRING EQUIPMENT

Previous: THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC, 8-K, 1998-07-24

Next: UNION PACIFIC CORP, 8-K, 1998-07-24

<PAGE>

SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION

PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(A) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
(AMENDMENT NO. )

Filed by the Registrant [X]

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [_]

Check the appropriate box:

[_] CONFIDENTIAL, FOR USE OF THE
[_] Preliminary Proxy Statement COMMISSION ONLY (AS PERMITTED BY
RULE 14A-6(E)(2))

[X] Definitive Proxy Statement

[_] Definitive Additional Materials

[_] Soliciting Material Pursuant to (S)240.14a-11(c) or (S)240.14a-12

JOINT FILING BY

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC.

THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

Payment of Filing Fee (check the appropriate box):

[_] No fee required.

[_] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.

(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: Not
applicable

(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: Not
applicable

(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which the
filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): $173,299,000
representing the pro forma Stockholders' Investment of the Joint
Venture as of March 31, 1998

(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: $173,299,000

(5) Total fee paid: $34,660

[X] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

[_] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act
Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was
paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

(1) Amount previously paid:

(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

(3) Filing Party:

(4) Date Filed:

Notes:

<PAGE>

LOGO

July 23, 1998

Dear Shareholder:

We are pleased to enclose information relating to a Special Meeting of
Shareholders of Thomas Industries Inc. ("Thomas") to be held at the Hyatt
Regency Hotel, 320 West Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky, at 10:00 a.m.,
local time on August 27, 1998.

On April 28, 1998, Thomas and The Genlyte Group Incorporated ("Genlyte")
entered into definitive agreements to combine the lighting business of Thomas
with the business of Genlyte through a joint venture in the form of a newly
organized limited liability company. The transaction has been unanimously
approved by the Boards of Directors of both Thomas and Genlyte.

Thomas will contribute to the joint venture substantially all of the assets
comprising its lighting business in exchange for a 32% interest in the joint
venture and the joint venture's assumption of certain liabilities. Genlyte
will contribute to the joint venture substantially all of its assets in
exchange for a 68% interest in the joint venture and the joint venture's
assumption of substantially all of Genlyte's liabilities. Thomas and Genlyte
will continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies.

The joint venture is extremely important for our company. Thomas and Genlyte
believe the joint venture represents a logical extension of each company's
strategic plans to enhance shareholder value. The joint venture will combine
the fourth and fifth largest companies, in terms of sales, in the North
American lighting fixture industry. The joint venture will have more than
5,000 employees and had pro forma combined lighting sales in 1997 of more than
$860 million. The transaction is expected to create annual synergies in excess
of $30 million, which synergies are expected to be fully realized by the end
of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of scale and revenue
enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an aggregate of $10.5
million of costs will be incurred by the joint venture during the period 1998
through 2000 related to achieving the synergies. The transaction is expected
to be accretive to both companies' earnings for the year ending December 31,
1999 and beyond.

YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS APPROVED THE TRANSACTION AND UNANIMOUSLY
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE TRANSACTION.

The Notice of Special Meeting and Joint Proxy Statement following this
letter provide you with detailed information about the meeting and proposed
transaction. In addition, you may obtain further information about Thomas and
Genlyte from documents that each company has filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. We encourage you to read all of this information
carefully.

Consummation of the transaction is subject to certain conditions, including,
but not limited to, approval of the transaction by the requisite vote of the
shareholders of both Thomas and Genlyte.

Approval of the matter to be voted on by Thomas shareholders requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of
Thomas Common Stock. In order to ensure that your vote is represented at the
meeting, please sign, date and mail your proxy card in the enclosed envelope.
You are, of course, welcome to attend the meeting and to vote your shares in
person.

/s/ Timothy C. Brown
Timothy C. Brown
Chairman, President and Chief
Executive Officer
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC.
4360 BROWNSBORO ROAD
SUITE 300
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY 40207
(502) 893-4600

----------------

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
AUGUST 27, 1998

----------------

July 23, 1998

A Special Meeting of Shareholders of Thomas Industries Inc. ("Thomas") will
be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 320 West Jefferson Street, Louisville,
Kentucky, at 10:00 a.m. local time on August 27, 1998, to consider and act
upon:

1. A proposal to approve the transfer of substantially all of the assets
of the lighting business of Thomas to the joint venture combining the
lighting business of Thomas with the business of The Genlyte Group
Incorporated; and

2. The transaction of such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on June 30, 1998 as
the record date for determining the shareholders entitled to notice of and to
vote at the Special Meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.
Approval of the matter to be voted on at the Special Meeting requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of
Thomas Common Stock.

By Order of the Board of Directors
/s/ Phillip J. Stuecker
Phillip J. Stuecker
Vice President of Finance,
Chief Financial Officer and
Secretary

WHETHER OR NOT YOU ATTEND THE MEETING, PLEASE DATE, SIGN AND MAIL THE
ENCLOSED PROXY IN THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED WHICH REQUIRES NO POSTAGE FOR MAILING
IN THE UNITED STATES. A PROMPT RESPONSE IS HELPFUL, AND YOUR COOPERATION WILL
BE APPRECIATED.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THOMAS UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS
VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE MATTER TO BE VOTED UPON AT THE SPECIAL MEETING.
<PAGE>

LOGO

THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED
2345 VAUXHALL ROAD
P.O. BOX 3148
UNION, NEW JERSEY 07083-1948
July 23, 1998
Dear Shareholder:

We are pleased to enclose information relating to a Special Meeting of
Shareholders of The Genlyte Group Incorporated ("Genlyte") to be held at the
offices of The Bank of New York, 1 Wall Street, 47th Floor, New York, New York
at 10:00 a.m., local time on August 27, 1998.

On April 28, 1998, Genlyte and Thomas Industries Inc. ("Thomas") entered
into definitive agreements to combine the business of Genlyte with the
lighting business of Thomas through a joint venture in the form of a newly-
organized limited liability company. The transaction has been unanimously
approved by the Boards of Directors of both Genlyte and Thomas.

Genlyte will contribute to the joint venture substantially all of its assets
in exchange for a 68% interest in the joint venture and the joint venture's
assumption of substantially all of Genlyte's liabilities. Thomas will
contribute to the joint venture substantially all of the assets comprising its
lighting business in exchange for a 32% interest in the joint venture and the
joint venture's assumption of certain liabilities. Genlyte and Thomas will
continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies.

The joint venture is extremely important for the future of Genlyte. Genlyte
and Thomas believe that the joint venture represents a logical extension of
each company's strategic plans to enhance shareholder value. The joint venture
will combine the fourth and fifth largest companies, in terms of sales, in the
North American lighting fixture industry. The joint venture will have more
than 5,000 employees and had pro forma combined lighting sales in 1997 of more
than $860 million. The transaction is expected to create annual synergies in
excess of $30 million, which synergies are expected to be fully realized by
the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of scale and
revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an aggregate of
$10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the joint venture during the period
1998 through 2000 related to achieving the synergies. The transaction is
expected to be accretive to both companies' earnings for the year ending
December 31, 1999 and beyond.

YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS APPROVED THE TRANSACTION AND UNANIMOUSLY
RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE TRANSACTION.

The Notice of Special Meeting and Joint Proxy Statement following this
letter provide you with detailed information about the meeting and proposed
transaction. In addition, you may obtain further information about Genlyte and
Thomas from documents that each company has filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. We encourage you to read all of this information
carefully.

Consummation of the transaction is subject to certain conditions, including,
but not limited to, approval of the transaction by the requisite vote of the
shareholders of both Genlyte and Thomas.

Approval of the matter to be voted on by Genlyte shareholders requires the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of
Genlyte Common Stock. In order to ensure that your vote is represented at the
meeting, please sign, date and mail your proxy card in the enclosed envelope.
You are, of course, welcome to attend the meeting and to vote your shares in
person.

/s/ Avrum I. Drazin /s/ Larry K. Powers
Avrum I. Drazin Larry K. Powers
Chairman of the Board President and Chief Executive
Officer
<PAGE>

THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED
2345 VAUXHALL ROAD
P.O. BOX 3148
UNION, NEW JERSEY 07083-1948
(908) 964-7000

----------------

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
AUGUST 27, 1998

----------------

July 23, 1998

A Special Meeting of Shareholders of The Genlyte Group Incorporated
("Genlyte") will be held at the offices of The Bank of New York, 1 Wall
Street, 47th Floor, New York, New York, at 10:00 a.m. local time on August 27,
1998, to consider and act upon:

1. A proposal to approve the transfer of substantially all of the assets
of Genlyte to the joint venture combining the business of Genlyte with the
lighting business of Thomas; and

2. The transaction of such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournments or postponements thereof.

By Order of the Board of Directors

/s/ Donna R. Ratliff
Donna R. Ratliff
Vice President-Administration and
Corporate Secretary

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GENLYTE UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT SHAREHOLDERS
VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE MATTER TO BE VOTED UPON AT THE SPECIAL MEETING.
<PAGE>

JOINT PROXY STATEMENT

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED

SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON AUGUST 27, 1998 TO BE HELD ON AUGUST 27, 1998

-----------------

This Joint Proxy Statement is being furnished to the shareholders of Thomas
Industries Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Thomas"), and The Genlyte Group
Incorporated, a Delaware corporation ("Genlyte"), on or about July 24, 1998 in
connection with the solicitations by the Boards of Directors of Thomas and
Genlyte of proxies for their respective Special Meetings of Shareholders to be
held on August 27, 1998 for the purpose of considering and acting upon the
matters specified in their respective Notices of Special Meeting of
Shareholders accompanying this Joint Proxy Statement.

If the form of proxy which accompanies this Joint Proxy Statement is
executed and returned, it will be voted. A proxy may be revoked at any time
prior to the voting thereof by executing and returning a proxy bearing a later
date, by giving written notice of revocation to the Secretary of Thomas or
Genlyte, as appropriate, or by attending the Special Meeting and voting in
person.

Expenses incurred in the solicitation of proxies will be borne by Thomas and
Genlyte. Thomas has retained Corporate Investor Communications, Inc. to assist
in the solicitation of proxies from Thomas shareholders for a fee of $5,500,
plus reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection
with the solicitation. Genlyte has retained Morrow & Co., Inc. to assist in
the solicitation of proxies from Genlyte shareholders for a fee of $5,500,
plus reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection
with the solicitation. In addition, officers of Thomas and Genlyte may make
additional solicitations in person or by telephone.

As of June 30, 1998, Thomas had outstanding 15,874,406 shares of Common
Stock and such shares are the only shares entitled to vote at the Special
Meeting. Each share is entitled to one vote on each matter to be voted upon at
the Special Meeting.

As of June 30, 1998, Genlyte had outstanding 13,485,483 shares of Common
Stock and such shares are the only shares entitled to vote at the Special
Meeting. Each share is entitled to one vote on each matter to be voted upon at
the Special Meeting.

-----------------

The date of this Joint Proxy Statement is July 23, 1998.

-----------------
<PAGE>

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

THOMAS AND GENLYTE HAVE EACH MADE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS IN THIS JOINT
PROXY STATEMENT THAT ARE SUBJECT TO RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES. FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS INCLUDE INFORMATION CONCERNING THE POSSIBLE OR ASSUMED FUTURE
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF THE BUSINESSES TO BE CONTRIBUTED BY THOMAS AND
GENLYTE. WHEN WORDS SUCH AS "BELIEVE," "EXPECT," "ANTICIPATE" OR SIMILAR
EXPRESSIONS ARE USED, FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS ARE BEING MADE. THE
STATEMENTS IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT WITH RESPECT TO FUTURE RESULTS,
FUTURE EXPECTATIONS AND PLANS FOR FUTURE ACTIVITIES, SYNERGIES AND COSTS MAY
BE REGARDED AS FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE PRIVATE
SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995 AND ACTUAL RESULTS MAY DIFFER
MATERIALLY FROM THOSE CURRENTLY EXPECTED. THE FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
CONTAINED IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT ARE SUBJECT TO VARIOUS RISKS, SUCH AS
THE ABILITY OF THE COMPANIES TO INTEGRATE THE CONTRIBUTED BUSINESSES AND TO
MEET NEW BUSINESS SALES GOALS, FLUCTUATIONS IN COMMODITY PRICES, SLOWING OF
THE OVERALL ECONOMY, INCREASED INTEREST COSTS ARISING FROM A CHANGE IN THE
PROPOSED JOINT VENTURE'S LEVERAGE OR CHANGE IN RATES, FAILURE OF THE
COMPANIES' PLANS TO PRODUCE ANTICIPATED SYNERGIES AND COST SAVINGS, AND THE
TIMING AND MAGNITUDE OF ANTICIPATED COSTS AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURES, AS WELL AS
OTHER RISKS DISCUSSED IN BOTH COMPANIES' FILINGS WITH THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION, INCLUDING ANNUAL REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS AND ANNUAL
REPORTS ON FORM 10-K FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997. THE COMPANIES MAKE
NO COMMITMENTS TO DISCLOSE ANY REVISIONS TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, OR ANY
CHANGES IN FACTS, EVENTS OR CIRCUMSTANCES AFTER THE DATE HEREOF THAT MAY BEAR
UPON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.
<PAGE>

TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
SUMMARY.................................................................... 1
General.................................................................... 1
Transaction................................................................ 1
The Parties................................................................ 1
The Joint Venture and the Capital Contributions............................ 2
Reasons for the Transaction................................................ 2
Consequences to Thomas and Genlyte......................................... 3
The Transaction Documents.................................................. 3
Governance................................................................. 4
Distributions.............................................................. 4
Conditions to the Transaction.............................................. 4
Termination of the Transaction............................................. 4
Recommendations to Shareholders............................................ 5
Opinions of Financial Advisors............................................. 5
The Shareholders' Meetings................................................. 6
Record Date; Voting Power.................................................. 6
Votes Required............................................................. 6
Share Ownership of Management and Certain Shareholders..................... 6
No Appraisal Rights........................................................ 6
Accounting Treatment....................................................... 6
Federal Income Tax Consequences............................................ 7
Who Can Help Answer Your Questions......................................... 7
THE SPECIAL MEETINGS....................................................... 8
General.................................................................... 8
Matters to be Considered at the Special Meetings........................... 8
Record Date; Quorum; Voting at the Meetings................................ 8
Proxies.................................................................... 10
THE PROPOSED JOINT VENTURE................................................. 12
Background................................................................. 12
Reasons for the Transaction................................................ 13
Structure of the Transaction............................................... 16
Recommendation of the Thomas Board of Directors............................ 16
Recommendation of the Genlyte Board of Directors........................... 16
Opinion of Financial Advisor to Thomas..................................... 17
Opinion of Financial Advisor to Genlyte.................................... 20
</TABLE>

-i-
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Certain Consequences of the Transaction.................................... 23
Accounting Treatment....................................................... 23
Federal Income Tax Consequences............................................ 23
No Appraisal Rights........................................................ 24
Closing Date............................................................... 24
Year 2000 Issues........................................................... 24
THE PARTIES................................................................ 24
Thomas..................................................................... 25
Genlyte.................................................................... 26
GENLYTE SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA............................... 27
THOMAS SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA................................ 29
FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE JOINT VENTURE............................... 31
SUMMARY OF TRANSACTION DOCUMENTS........................................... 31
THE MASTER TRANSACTION AGREEMENT........................................... 31
General.................................................................... 31
Closing Date............................................................... 31
Certain Covenants.......................................................... 31
Conditions to Closing...................................................... 33
Termination................................................................ 34
THE CAPITALIZATION AGREEMENTS.............................................. 36
Assets Contributed......................................................... 36
Excluded Assets............................................................ 36
Consideration.............................................................. 36
Assumed Liabilities........................................................ 36
Excluded Liabilities....................................................... 37
Litigation................................................................. 37
Representations and Warranties............................................. 38
Working Capital Adjustment................................................. 38
Employees and Employee Benefit Plans....................................... 38
Indemnification............................................................ 39
THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT.................................... 40
General.................................................................... 40
Members.................................................................... 40
Capitalization of the Joint Venture........................................ 40
Profit and Loss Allocations................................................ 41
Distributions.............................................................. 41
</TABLE>

-ii-
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Management................................................................ 41
Transfers, Withdrawals and Deadlock....................................... 43
Dissolution and Termination............................................... 45
Covenants Not to Compete.................................................. 46
Stock Options............................................................. 46
CERTAIN RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS........................................ 47
MARKET PRICE INFORMATION.................................................. 47
MANAGEMENT OF THE JOINT VENTURE........................................... 47
PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS OF THOMAS AND GENLYTE.............................. 48
FUTURE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS.............................................. 51
EXPERTS................................................................... 51
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION AND INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN
INFORMATION BY REFERENCE................................................. 52
OTHER MATTERS............................................................. 53
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS............................................. F-1
APPENDIX A--OPINION OF SALOMON SMITH BARNEY............................... A-1
APPENDIX B--OPINION OF DONALDSON, LUFKIN & JENRETTE SECURITIES
CORPORATION.............................................................. B-1
</TABLE>

-iii-
<PAGE>

SUMMARY

THE FOLLOWING IS A BRIEF SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INFORMATION SET FORTH ELSEWHERE
IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE COMPLETE. MORE DETAILED
INFORMATION IS CONTAINED ELSEWHERE IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT, THE
ACCOMPANYING APPENDICES AND THE DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE.

TO UNDERSTAND THE TRANSACTION FULLY AND FOR A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF
THE LEGAL TERMS OF THE TRANSACTION, YOU SHOULD READ CAREFULLY THIS ENTIRE
DOCUMENT AND THE DOCUMENTS TO WHICH WE HAVE REFERRED YOU.

GENERAL

This Joint Proxy Statement, Notice of the Thomas Special Meeting to be held
on August 27, 1998, Notice of the Genlyte Special Meeting to be held on August
27, 1998 and forms of proxy solicited in connection therewith are first being
mailed to holders of Thomas Common Stock (the "Thomas Shareholders") and
holders of Genlyte Common Stock (the "Genlyte Shareholders") on or about July
24, 1998. At the Special Meeting of Thomas Shareholders (the "Thomas Meeting"),
the Thomas Shareholders will consider and vote on a proposal to contribute
substantially all of the assets of Thomas' lighting business to the joint
venture and at the Special Meeting of Genlyte Shareholders (the "Genlyte
Meeting"), the Genlyte Shareholders will consider and vote on a proposal to
contribute substantially all of Genlyte's assets to the joint venture.

TRANSACTION

Thomas and Genlyte have agreed to form a joint venture by combining Thomas'
lighting business with Genlyte's business. The joint venture, to be called
Genlyte Thomas Group LLC, will be in the form of a Delaware limited liability
company (the "Joint Venture") and will be headquartered in Louisville,
Kentucky. The Joint Venture was formed using the name GT Lighting, LLC but will
be renamed Genlyte Thomas Group LLC prior to the Closing. Thomas will
contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of the assets comprising its
lighting business in exchange for a 32% interest in the Joint Venture and the
Joint Venture's assumption of certain related liabilities. Genlyte will
contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of its assets in exchange for
a 68% interest in the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of
substantially all of Genlyte's liabilities. The interests in the Joint Venture
to be issued to each of Thomas and Genlyte were based on arms-length
negotiations between the parties with the assistance of their financial
advisors. Larry K. Powers, President and Chief Executive Officer of Genlyte,
will be the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Joint Venture. Timothy
C. Brown, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomas, will be
Chairman of the Management Board of the Joint Venture.

The formation of the Joint Venture and the contribution of the assets of
Genlyte and the assets of the lighting business of Thomas to, and the
assumption of liabilities by, the Joint Venture, as described in this Joint
Proxy Statement, is referred to herein as the "Transaction."

THE PARTIES

THOMAS. Thomas operates two core businesses organized as a lighting segment,
which includes consumer, commercial, industrial, and outdoor lighting products,
and a compressor and vacuum pump segment, which includes applications for
industrial, medical, automotive, environmental and laboratory markets. Thomas
designs, manufactures, markets and sells these products. Thomas operates
numerous divisions and subsidiaries, with facilities throughout the U.S.,
Canada (lighting), Germany (compressor and vacuum pump) and Mexico (lighting
and compressor and vacuum pump). Thomas also maintains sales offices in Brazil,
England, Italy, Hong Kong and Japan for its compressor and vacuum pump segment
and has joint ventures in the U.S. and Canada with a Belgian company (lighting)
and a German company (compressor and vacuum pump). Thomas also maintains a
purchasing office in China (lighting). Thomas maintains corporate offices in
Louisville, Kentucky.

1
<PAGE>

GENLYTE. Genlyte designs, manufactures and sells lighting fixtures and
controls for a wide variety of applications in the commercial, industrial, and
residential markets. Genlyte operates in one industry segment (lighting
fixtures and controls) through the following divisions: Lightolier, Controls,
Wide-Lite, Hadco, Diamond F and Supply (Crescent, ExceLine and Stonco product
lines) in the United States and Mexico, and Canlyte in Canada. Genlyte's
products primarily utilize incandescent, fluorescent, and high-intensity
discharge (HID) light sources and are marketed primarily to distributors who
resell the products for use in new residential, commercial, and industrial
construction as well as in remodeling existing structures.

THE JOINT VENTURE AND THE CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS

The Joint Venture will be organized in the form of a Delaware limited
liability company. Limited liability companies are similar to corporations in
that all owners (Thomas and Genlyte in this case) have limited liability.
Unlike a corporation, however, limited liability companies are, if structured
properly, treated as a partnership for tax purposes, resulting in no federal
income tax being due at the limited liability company level.

Under separate Capitalization Agreements (the "Capitalization Agreements"),
Thomas and Genlyte will contribute certain assets to the Joint Venture. Thomas
will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of the assets comprising
Thomas' lighting business. Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture
substantially all of its assets. The Joint Venture will manufacture, sell,
market and distribute consumer, commercial, industrial and outdoor lighting
fixtures and controls.

In exchange for the assets to be transferred to the Joint Venture under the
Capitalization Agreements, Genlyte will receive a 68% interest in the Joint
Venture and Thomas will receive a 32% interest in the Joint Venture. In
addition, the Joint Venture will assume responsibility for certain liabilities
related to Thomas' and Genlyte's contributed businesses.

The Joint Venture will not assume any liability with respect to a pending
lawsuit against Genlyte and others arising out of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy
filing of Keene Corporation, a former affiliate of Genlyte. Genlyte will retain
that liability and will indemnify the Joint Venture for any and all costs,
expenses or losses associated therewith. See "Summary of Transaction Documents;
The Capitalization Agreements--Litigation" for a description of the pending
lawsuit.

The Joint Venture will also not assume any liability relating to Thomas'
compressor and vacuum pump business or any liability related to Thomas' Beaver
Dam manufacturing facility. Thomas will retain these liabilities and will
indemnify the Joint Venture for any and all costs, expenses or losses
associated therewith. See "Summary of Transaction Documents; The Capitalization
Agreements--Excluded Liabilities."

REASONS FOR THE TRANSACTION

Thomas and Genlyte believe the Joint Venture represents a logical extension
of each company's strategic plans to enhance shareholder value. The Joint
Venture will combine the fourth and fifth largest companies, in terms of sales,
in the North American lighting fixture industry and will have an estimated 13%
domestic market share. The Joint Venture will have more than 5,000 employees
and had pro forma combined lighting sales in 1997 of more than $860 million.
The transaction is expected to be accretive to both companies' earnings for the
year ending December 31, 1999 and beyond.

Thomas and Genlyte believe the Transaction will provide opportunities for
expanded business opportunities and significant cost savings that should lead
to improved earnings and cash flow from the contributed businesses and,
therefore, improved shareholder returns for both companies. The Transaction is
expected to create annual synergies for the combined lighting business in
excess of $30 million, which synergies are expected to be fully realized by the
end of the year 2000, as a result of costs savings, economies of scale and
revenue enhancement

2
<PAGE>

opportunities. It is anticipated that an aggregate of $10.5 million of costs
will be incurred by the Joint Venture during the period 1998 through 2000
related to achieving the synergies. The goal of the Joint Venture will be to
maximize long-term cash flow and economic value creation through the efficient
operation of its business and assets. See "The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons
for the Transaction."

CONSEQUENCES TO THOMAS AND GENLYTE

After the closing (the "Closing") of the Transaction, Thomas and Genlyte will
continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies and their certificates
of incorporation and by-laws will remain unchanged. Thomas' assets will
principally consist of its compressor and vacuum pump business and its 32%
interest in the Joint Venture. Genlyte's assets will principally consist of its
68% interest in the Joint Venture.

Thomas and Genlyte will participate in the lighting business, after the
Closing, only through their interests in the Joint Venture and their respective
Representatives on the Management Board of the Joint Venture.

After the Closing, Thomas and Genlyte and their subsidiaries will continue to
have various obligations to the Joint Venture and to each other. At the
Closing, Thomas and the Joint Venture will enter into a Services Agreement
under which Thomas will provide certain services to the Joint Venture,
including providing certain employee benefits on an interim basis. Thomas will
be reimbursed by the Joint Venture for providing such services on a cost basis.
Thomas and Genlyte believe that such costs to be paid by the Joint Venture will
be comparable to the costs historically incurred by Genlyte for such services
from unaffiliated third parties.

THE TRANSACTION DOCUMENTS

The Transaction is set forth in detail in four separate but interrelated
agreements consisting of a Master Transaction Agreement, a Capitalization
Agreement for each of Thomas and Genlyte, and a Limited Liability Company
Agreement, each of which is dated April 28, 1998 (collectively, the
"Transaction Documents").

The Master Transaction Agreement contains (i) covenants governing the interim
conduct of the lighting business of Thomas and the business of Genlyte prior to
consummation of the Transaction and prohibiting the solicitation of third party
offers for their respective businesses or companies, (ii) conditions precedent
to each of Thomas' and Genlyte's obligations to consummate the Transaction,
(iii) provisions for terminating the Transaction, and (iv) the termination fees
to be paid by the parties in certain instances. See "Summary of Transaction
Documents; The Master Transaction Agreement."

The Capitalization Agreements for each of Thomas and Genlyte set forth (i)
the assets being transferred to, and liabilities being assumed by, the Joint
Venture, (ii) the ownership interest being received by each of Thomas and
Genlyte in the Joint Venture, (iii) the amount of the long-term note being
issued to Thomas, if any, (iv) the working capital adjustment, (v) the
representations and warranties being made by each of Thomas and Genlyte and
(vi) the indemnification obligations of Thomas, Genlyte and the Joint Venture.
See "Summary of Transaction Documents; The Capitalization Agreements."

The Limited Liability Company Agreement ("LLC Agreement") sets forth (i) the
terms and conditions for the governance of the Joint Venture, including events
or actions requiring approval of one of the Representatives appointed by Thomas
to the Management Board of the Joint Venture, (ii) events requiring or
permitting Thomas and Genlyte to dispose of or transfer their interests in the
Joint Venture and (iii) Thomas' and Genlyte's respective obligations not to
compete with the Joint Venture. See "Summary of Transaction Documents; The
Limited Liability Company Agreement."

The Master Transaction Agreement, Capitalization Agreements and Limited
Liability Company Agreement have been filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "SEC"), are incorporated by reference herein and are publicly
available. Shareholders of Thomas and Genlyte are encouraged to read each of
these documents,

3
<PAGE>

which are the primary legal documents governing the Transaction. See "Where You
Can Find More Information and Incorporation of Certain Information by
Reference."

GOVERNANCE

The day-to-day operations of the Joint Venture will be managed by its
executive officers under the supervision of a Management Board that will act
much like a board of directors of a corporation (the "Management Board"). The
Management Board will have six representatives (the "Representatives"), four of
whom will be appointed by Genlyte and two of whom will be appointed by Thomas.

The approval of a majority of the Representatives will be required for all
actions of the Management Board except for certain matters which require the
approval of the majority of the Representatives, including, as to such matters,
approval by at least one Representative appointed by Thomas. The matters
requiring the approval of the majority of the Representatives including at
least one Representative appointed by Thomas include, but are not limited to,
(i) removal of Larry K. Powers as President of the Joint Venture or selection
of a President or Chief Executive Officer of the Joint Venture other than Larry
K. Powers, (ii) removal of Timothy C. Brown as Chairman of the Joint Venture,
(iii) any material change in the Joint Venture's business, (iv) acquisitions or
dispositions in excess of $25.0 million, (v) a sale of substantially all of the
Joint Venture's assets or a merger or consolidation of the Joint Venture, (vi)
any dissolution or liquidation of the Joint Venture (vii) distributions in
amounts less than the mandatory distributions or (viii) any related party
transactions. See "Summary of Transaction Documents; The Limited Liability
Company Agreement."

DISTRIBUTIONS

The Joint Venture will distribute to each of Thomas and Genlyte an amount,
based on each company's interest in the Joint Venture, for tax liabilities
attributable to its interest in the Joint Venture based upon the effective tax
rate of the company having the highest tax rate. In addition to the tax
distribution, the Joint Venture will distribute at least $3,000,000 and
$6,375,000 per year to Thomas and Genlyte, respectively.

CONDITIONS TO THE TRANSACTION

Completion of the Transaction is subject to satisfaction or (in some cases)
waiver of several conditions set forth in the Master Transaction Agreement,
including the following:

. the shareholders of Thomas and Genlyte have approved the Transaction;

. the representations and warranties of each of Thomas and Genlyte
contained in the Transaction Documents are true, correct and accurate
and Thomas and Genlyte have performed all of their respective
obligations and complied in all material respects with each and all of
the covenants, agreements and conditions applicable to each company
contained in the Transaction Documents;

. no court or governmental, regulatory or administrative agency or
commission shall have issued an order or ruling or taken any other
action which enjoins or prohibits the Transaction;

. receipt of all necessary third party consents;

. no material adverse change in the Contributed Businesses or assets
thereof has occurred;

. none of Thomas, Genlyte or the Joint Venture or any of the contributed
assets have been made a party or subject to any litigation related to
the other party which is reasonably expected to have a material adverse
effect; and

. the Joint Venture will have in place a credit facility, including a
working capital line of credit, in an amount which is appropriate for
the Joint Venture given the outstanding indebtedness, contemplated
growth, including acquisitions, and the nature and size of the Joint
Venture.

TERMINATION OF THE TRANSACTION

The Boards of Directors of Thomas and Genlyte can jointly agree to terminate
the Master Transaction Agreement (and, therefore, abandon the Transaction) at
any time prior to consummation of the Transaction. In

4
<PAGE>

addition, either Thomas or Genlyte, acting alone, can terminate the Master
Transaction Agreement (and, therefore, abandon the Transaction) if:

. the closing of the Transaction does not occur prior to December 31,
1998;

. prior to shareholder approval, without violation of the Master
Transaction Agreement, the other company accepts an unsolicited
alternative proposal from a third party to acquire or operate its
business or entire company (an "Alternative Proposal");

. the Board of Directors of the other company withdraws its recommendation
for the Transaction;

. a change of control of the other company occurs; or

. the shareholders of the other company do not approve the Transaction.

If either company terminates the Master Transaction Agreement because the
other company has accepted an Alternative Proposal from a third party or has
undergone a change in control, it will receive a termination fee from the other
company in the amount of $6.5 million (in the case of a termination fee payable
by Genlyte) or $4.5 million (in the case of a termination fee payable by
Thomas), plus expenses not to exceed $2.0 million in the aggregate. If Genlyte
is unable to obtain shareholder approval of the Transaction, Genlyte will be
required to pay a termination fee to Thomas in the amount of $3.25 million and
if Thomas is unable to obtain shareholder approval of the Transaction, Thomas
will be required to pay a termination fee to Genlyte in the amount of $2.25
million, plus, in each case, expenses of the other party not to exceed $2.0
million in the aggregate.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

To the Thomas Shareholders:

THE THOMAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS BELIEVES THAT THE TRANSACTION IS FAIR TO THOMAS
AND IN ITS BEST INTEREST AND UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" THE
TRANSACTION.

To the Genlyte Shareholders:

THE GENLYTE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BELIEVES THAT THE TRANSACTION IS FAIR TO
GENLYTE AND IN ITS BEST INTEREST AND UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR"
THE TRANSACTION.

OPINIONS OF FINANCIAL ADVISORS

The Boards of Directors of each company have received an opinion of such
company's financial advisor as to the fairness from a financial point of view
of the interest to be received by such company in the Joint Venture in exchange
for the assets being contributed by such company. The Thomas Board of Directors
received an opinion from Thomas' financial advisor, Salomon Smith Barney, and
the Genlyte Board of Directors received an opinion from its financial advisor,
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation ("DLJ"). The full texts of
these opinions, which set forth the assumptions made, matters considered and
limitations of the review undertaken, are attached as Appendices A and B,
respectively, to this Joint Proxy Statement. THOMAS AND GENLYTE ENCOURAGE YOU
TO READ THESE OPINIONS CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY.

THE OPINIONS OF SALOMON SMITH BARNEY AND DLJ ARE DIRECTED TO THE RESPECTIVE
BOARDS OF DIRECTORS OF THOMAS AND GENLYTE AND RELATE ONLY TO THE FAIRNESS, AS
OF THE DATES OF SUCH OPINIONS, OF THE INTERESTS IN THE JOINT VENTURE TO BE
RECEIVED BY THE RESPECTIVE COMPANIES FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW, DO NOT
ADDRESS ANY OTHER ASPECT OF THE TRANSACTION OR RELATED TRANSACTIONS OR THE
RELATIVE MERITS OF THE TRANSACTION AND THE BOARDS OF DIRECTORS' DECISIONS TO
PROCEED WITH THE TRANSACTION AND DO NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION TO ANY
SHAREHOLDER AS TO HOW SUCH SHAREHOLDER SHOULD VOTE ON THE TRANSACTION. See "The
Proposed Joint Venture--Opinion of Financial Advisor to Thomas" and "--Opinion
of Financial Advisor to Genlyte."

5
<PAGE>

THE SHAREHOLDERS' MEETINGS

The Thomas Meeting will be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 320 West
Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky, at 10:00 A.M. on August 27, 1998. At
the Thomas Meeting, Thomas shareholders will be asked to approve the
Transaction.

The Genlyte Meeting will be held at the offices of The Bank of New York,
1 Wall Street, 47th Floor, New York, New York, at 10:00 A.M. on August 27,
1998. At the Genlyte Meeting, Genlyte shareholders will be asked to approve the
Transaction.

RECORD DATE; VOTING POWER

You are entitled to vote at your company's meeting if you owned shares as of
the close of the relevant record date. The Thomas Record Date and the Genlyte
Record Date have been fixed for June 30, 1998.

On the Thomas Record Date, there were 15,874,406 shares of Thomas Common
Stock outstanding and allowed to vote at the Thomas Meeting. Thomas
shareholders will have one vote at the Thomas Meeting for each share of Thomas
Common Stock held of record on the Thomas Record Date.

On the Genlyte Record Date, there were 13,485,483 shares of Genlyte Common
Stock outstanding and allowed to vote at the Genlyte Meeting. Genlyte
shareholders will have one vote at the Genlyte Meeting for each share of
Genlyte Common Stock held of record on the Genlyte Record Date.

VOTES REQUIRED

Holders of a majority of the shares of Thomas Common Stock outstanding on the
Thomas Record Date must vote in favor of the Transaction in order to approve
it.

Holders of a majority of the shares of Genlyte Common Stock outstanding on
the Genlyte Record Date must vote in favor of the Transaction in order to
approve it.

SHARE OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT AND CERTAIN SHAREHOLDERS

On the Thomas Record Date, directors and executive officers of Thomas and
their affiliates beneficially owned 1,132,915 shares of Thomas Common Stock, or
approximately 7.14% of the shares of Thomas Common Stock outstanding on the
Thomas Record Date.

On the Genlyte Record Date, directors and executive officers of Genlyte and
their affiliates beneficially owned 2,177,114 shares of Genlyte Common Stock,
or approximately 16.1% of the shares of Genlyte Common Stock outstanding on the
Genlyte Record Date.

To the knowledge of Thomas, each of the directors and executive officers of
Thomas has indicated that he or she intends to vote his or her Thomas Common
Stock "FOR" approval of the Transaction.

To the knowledge of Genlyte, each of the directors and executive officers of
Genlyte has indicated that he or she intends to vote his or her Genlyte Common
Stock "FOR" approval of the Transaction.

NO APPRAISAL RIGHTS

Both Thomas and Genlyte are organized under Delaware law. Under Delaware law,
Thomas and Genlyte shareholders who do not vote in favor of the Transaction do
not have the right to receive the appraised value of their shares.

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

6
<PAGE>

FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

The consummation of the Transaction is not expected to have any material tax
consequences to either Thomas or Genlyte.

The consummation of the Transaction will have no federal income tax
consequences for the shareholders of either Thomas or Genlyte.

The Joint Venture will be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes and therefore, the Joint Venture will not pay any federal income
taxes.

WHO CAN HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

If you have more questions about the Transaction you should contact:

THOMAS SHAREHOLDERS: GENLYTE SHAREHOLDERS:
Thomas Industries Inc. The Genlyte Group Incorporated
4360 Brownsboro Road 2345 Vauxhall Road
Suite 300 P.O. Box 3148
Louisville, Kentucky 40207 Union, New Jersey 07083-1948
Attention: Phillip J. Stuecker Attention: Donna R. Ratliff
Vice President of Finance, Chief Vice President--Administration
Financial Officer and Secretary and Corporate Secretary

Phone Number: (502) 893-4600 Phone Number: (908) 810-4530

If you would like additional copies of the Joint Proxy Statement, or if you
have questions about how to vote your shares, you should contact:

THOMAS SHAREHOLDERS: GENLYTE SHAREHOLDERS:
Corporate Investor Communications, Morrow & Co., Inc.
Inc. 909 Third Avenue
111 Commerce Road New York, New York 10022-4799
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072-2586

Attention: William P. Fiske Phone Number (U.S. & Canada): 800-
566-9081

Phone Number (U.S. & Canada): 888- (Outside U.S. and Canada): 212-754-
214-7734 8000
(Outside U.S. and Canada): 888-214-
7734

7
<PAGE>

THE SPECIAL MEETINGS

GENERAL

This Joint Proxy Statement is being furnished to holders (the "Thomas
Shareholders") of shares of Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share, of Thomas
(the "Thomas Common Stock") as of the Thomas Record Date, in connection with
the solicitation of proxies by Thomas' Board of Directors for use at the
special meeting of Thomas' shareholders (the "Thomas Meeting") to be held at
the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 320 West Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky, on
August 27, 1998, convening at 10:00 a.m., and at any adjournments or
postponements thereof.

This Joint Proxy Statement is also being furnished to holders (the "Genlyte
Shareholders") of shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of
Genlyte (the "Genlyte Common Stock") as of the Genlyte Record Date, in
connection with the solicitation of proxies by Genlyte's Board of Directors
for use at the special meeting of Genlyte's shareholders (the "Genlyte
Meeting") to be held at the offices of The Bank of New York, 1 Wall Street,
47th Floor, New York, New York, on August 27, 1998, convening at 10:00 a.m.,
and at any adjournments or postponements thereof.

MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED AT THE SPECIAL MEETINGS

Thomas. At the Thomas Meeting, Thomas Shareholders will be asked to consider
and vote upon a proposal to approve the proposed contribution (the "Thomas
Asset Contribution") to the Joint Venture of substantially all of the assets
comprising Thomas' lighting business (the "Thomas Contributed Business") in
exchange for a 32% interest (the "Thomas Allocation") in the Joint Venture and
the Joint Venture's assumption of certain related liabilities. The audited
financial statements of Thomas' Contributed Business are included at the end
of this Joint Proxy Statement.

Representatives of Ernst & Young LLP, Thomas' independent auditors, will
attend the Thomas Meeting and will have an opportunity to make a statement and
to respond to appropriate questions from shareholders.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THOMAS HAS UNANIMOUSLY DETERMINED THAT THE THOMAS
ASSET CONTRIBUTION IS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THOMAS AND ITS SHAREHOLDERS AND
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE THOMAS ASSET
CONTRIBUTION.

Genlyte. At the Genlyte Meeting, Genlyte Shareholders will be asked to
consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the proposed contribution (the
"Genlyte Asset Contribution") to the Joint Venture of substantially all of the
assets of Genlyte (the "Genlyte Contributed Business" and, together with the
Thomas Contributed Business, the "Contributed Businesses") in exchange for a
68% interest (the "Genlyte Allocation") in the Joint Venture and the Joint
Venture's assumption of substantially all of Genlyte's liabilities.

Representatives of Arthur Andersen LLP, Genlyte's independent public
accountants, will attend the Genlyte Meeting and will have an opportunity to
make a statement and to respond to appropriate questions from shareholders.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GENLYTE HAS UNANIMOUSLY DETERMINED THAT THE
GENLYTE ASSET CONTRIBUTION IS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF GENLYTE AND ITS
SHAREHOLDERS AND UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL OF THE
GENLYTE ASSET CONTRIBUTION.

RECORD DATE; QUORUM; VOTING AT THE MEETINGS

Thomas. Thomas' Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on June
30, 1998 as the record date (the "Thomas Record Date") for the Thomas Meeting.
Accordingly, only holders of record of shares of Thomas Common Stock on the
Thomas Record Date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Thomas
Meeting. On the Thomas Record Date, there were 15,874,406 shares of Thomas
Common Stock outstanding, held by

8
<PAGE>

approximately 1,993 holders of record. Each share of Thomas Common Stock is
entitled to one vote on each matter to be acted upon at the Thomas Meeting.
The presence, either in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of
the outstanding shares of Thomas Common Stock entitled to vote at the Thomas
Meeting is necessary to constitute a quorum. Abstentions (including broker
non-votes) are included in the calculation of the number of votes represented
at the Thomas Meeting for purposes of determining whether a quorum has been
achieved.

Section 271 of the Delaware General Corporation Law requires that a "sale,
lease or exchange" of "all or substantially all" of the assets of a Delaware
corporation be approved by the shareholders of the corporation. Thomas is a
Delaware corporation. Although there is some uncertainty under the statute and
case law as to the applicability of Section 271 to the Thomas Asset
Contribution, the Thomas assets to be transferred to the Joint Venture may be
deemed to constitute "substantially all" of Thomas' assets and the transfer
may be deemed to constitute a "sale, lease or exchange" for such purpose.
Accordingly, and as a matter of good corporate governance, Thomas has
conditioned its obligation to consummate the Transaction upon approval by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Thomas Common Stock.

Because the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares of Thomas Common Stock entitled to vote thereon is necessary to approve
the Transaction, including the Thomas Asset Contribution, failures to vote
(including abstentions) and broker non-votes will have the practical effect of
voting "AGAINST" the Transaction. As more fully described under "Proxies"
below, shares of Thomas Common Stock represented by properly executed proxies
received at or prior to the Thomas Meeting that have not been revoked will be
voted at the Thomas Meeting in accordance with the instructions contained
therein or, if no instruction is provided, will be voted "FOR" the approval of
the Thomas Asset Contribution.

To the knowledge of Thomas, the directors and executive officers of Thomas,
who, as of the Thomas Record Date, beneficially held in the aggregate
approximately 7.14% of the outstanding shares of Thomas Common Stock, intend
to vote in favor of the approval of the Thomas Asset Contribution.

Genlyte. Genlyte's Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on
June 30, 1998 as the record date (the "Genlyte Record Date") for the Genlyte
Meeting. Accordingly, only holders of record of shares of Genlyte Common Stock
on the Genlyte Record Date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the
Genlyte Meeting. On the Genlyte Record Date, there were 13,485,483 shares of
Genlyte Common Stock outstanding, held by approximately 1,507 holders of
record. Each share of Genlyte Common Stock is entitled to one vote on each
matter to be acted upon at the Genlyte Meeting. The presence, either in person
or by proxy, of a majority of the outstanding shares of Genlyte Common Stock
entitled to be voted at the Genlyte Meeting is necessary to constitute a
quorum. Abstentions (including broker non-votes) are included in the
calculation of the number of votes represented at the Genlyte Meeting for
purposes of determining whether a quorum has been achieved.

Because the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding
shares of Genlyte Common Stock entitled to vote thereon is necessary to
approve the Transaction, including the Genlyte Asset Contribution, failures to
vote (including abstentions) and broker non-votes will have the practical
effect of voting "AGAINST" the Transaction. As more fully described under
"Proxies" below, shares of Genlyte Common Stock represented by properly
executed proxies received at or prior to the Genlyte Meeting that have not
been revoked will be voted at the Genlyte Meeting in accordance with the
instructions contained therein or, if no instruction is provided, will be
voted "FOR" the approval of the Genlyte Asset Contribution.

To the knowledge of Genlyte, the directors and executive officers of
Genlyte, who, as of the Genlyte Record Date, beneficially held approximately
16.1% of the outstanding shares of Genlyte Common Stock, intend to vote in
favor of the approval of the Genlyte Asset Contribution.

9
<PAGE>

PROXIES

This Joint Proxy Statement is being furnished to holders of Thomas Common
Stock and Genlyte Common Stock in connection with the solicitation of proxies
by and on behalf of the respective Boards of Directors of Thomas and Genlyte
for use at the Thomas Meeting and the Genlyte Meeting, as the case may be.

Thomas. Shares of Thomas Common Stock represented by properly executed
proxies received at or prior to the Thomas Meeting that have not been revoked
will be voted at the Thomas Meeting in accordance with the instructions
contained therein. Shares of Thomas Common Stock represented by properly
executed proxies for which no instruction is provided will be voted "FOR" the
approval of the Thomas Asset Contribution. Holders of Thomas Common Stock are
requested to complete, sign, date and return promptly the enclosed proxy card
in the postage-prepaid envelope provided for such purpose to ensure that their
shares are voted. Any holder of record of Thomas Common Stock who so desires
may revoke his, her or its proxy at any time prior to the time it is exercised
by (i) providing written notice to such effect to the Secretary of Thomas,
(ii) giving a duly executed proxy bearing a date subsequent to that of a
previously furnished proxy or (iii) attending the Thomas Meeting and voting in
person. Attendance at the Thomas Meeting will not in itself constitute a
revocation of a previously furnished proxy. Shareholders who attend the Thomas
Meeting in person need not revoke their proxy (if previously furnished) to
vote in person.

If the Thomas Meeting is postponed or adjourned for any reason, at any
subsequent reconvening of the Thomas Meeting, all proxies will be voted in the
same manner as such proxies would have been voted at the initial convening of
the Thomas Meeting (except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked
or withdrawn), notwithstanding that they may have been effectively voted on
the same or any other matter at a previous meeting.

If any matters other than the Transaction are properly presented at the
Thomas Meeting for consideration, including consideration of a motion to
adjourn the Thomas Meeting to another time and/or place (including for the
purpose of soliciting additional proxies), the persons named in the enclosed
form of proxy and acting thereunder will have discretion to vote on such
matters in accordance with their best judgment; provided, however, that any
proxy marked "AGAINST" the Transaction will not be voted in favor of any such
motion to adjourn.

If any beneficial owner of Thomas Common Stock holds such stock in "street
name" and wishes to vote such stock at the Thomas Meeting, such owner must
obtain from the relevant nominee holding such stock a properly executed "legal
proxy" which (i) identifies the beneficial owner as a holder of such stock,
(ii) authorizes the beneficial owner to act on behalf of the nominee-record
owner at the Thomas Meeting and (iii) identifies the number of shares (and
certificate numbers, if applicable) in respect of which the authorization is
granted.

Genlyte. Shares of Genlyte Common Stock represented by properly executed
proxies received at or prior to the Genlyte Meeting that have not been revoked
will be voted at the Genlyte Meeting in accordance with the instructions
contained therein. Shares of Genlyte Common Stock represented by properly
executed proxies for which no instructions are provided will be voted "FOR"
the approval of the Genlyte Asset Contribution. Holders of Genlyte Common
Stock are requested to complete, sign, date and return promptly the enclosed
proxy card in the postage-prepaid envelope provided for such purpose to ensure
that their shares are voted. Any holder of record of Genlyte Common Stock who
so desires may revoke his, her or its proxy at any time prior to the time it
is exercised by (i) providing written notice to such effect to the Secretary
of Genlyte, (ii) giving a duly executed proxy bearing a date subsequent to
that of a previously furnished proxy or (iii) attending the Genlyte Meeting
and voting in person. Attendance at the Genlyte Meeting will not in itself
constitute a revocation of a previously furnished proxy. Shareholders who
attend the Genlyte Meeting in person need not revoke their proxy (if
previously furnished) to vote in person.

10
<PAGE>

If the Genlyte Meeting is postponed or adjourned for any reason, at any
subsequent reconvening of the Genlyte Meeting all proxies will be voted in the
same manner as such proxies would have been voted at the initial convening of
the Genlyte Meeting (except for any proxies that have been effectively revoked
or withdrawn), notwithstanding that they may have been effectively voted on
the same or any other matter at a previous meeting.

If any matters other than the Transaction are properly presented at the
Genlyte Meeting for consideration, including consideration of a motion to
adjourn the Genlyte Meeting to another time and/or place (including for the
purpose of soliciting additional proxies), the persons named in the enclosed
form of proxy and acting thereunder will have discretion to vote on such
matters in accordance with their best judgment; provided, however, that any
proxy marked "AGAINST" the Transaction will not be voted in favor of any such
motion to adjourn.

If any beneficial owner of Genlyte Common Stock holds such stock in "street
name" and wishes to vote such stock at the Genlyte Meeting, such owner must
obtain from the relevant nominee holding such stock a properly executed "legal
proxy" which (i) identifies the beneficial owner as a holder of such stock,
(ii) authorizes the beneficial owner to act on behalf of the nominee-record
owner at the Genlyte Meeting and (iii) identifies the number of shares (and
certificate numbers, if applicable) in respect of which the authorization is
granted.

Solicitation Efforts. Thomas and Genlyte will share equally the cost of
printing and filing this Joint Proxy Statement with the SEC. In addition to
solicitation by mail, directors, officers and employees of Thomas and Genlyte
may solicit proxies by telephone, facsimile transmission or otherwise. Such
directors, officers and employees of Thomas and Genlyte will not be specially
compensated for such solicitation, but may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket
expenses incurred in connection therewith. Brokerage firms, fiduciaries and
other custodians who forward soliciting material to the beneficial owners of
Thomas Common Stock or Genlyte Common Stock will be reimbursed for their
reasonable expenses incurred in forwarding such material. Thomas has retained
Corporate Investor Communications, Inc., at a cost of $5,500, plus
reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, to assist in the solicitation of
proxies for the Thomas Meeting from brokers, nominees, institutions and
individuals. Genlyte has retained Morrow & Co., Inc., at a cost of $5,500,
plus reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, to assist in the solicitation of
proxies for the Genlyte Meeting from brokers, nominees, institutions and
individuals. Arrangements also will be made with custodians, nominees and
fiduciaries for the forwarding of proxy solicitation materials to beneficial
owners of shares of Thomas Common Stock and Genlyte Common Stock held of
record by such custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, and Thomas and Genlyte
will reimburse such custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection therewith.

11
<PAGE>

THE PROPOSED JOINT VENTURE

BACKGROUND

On September 4, 1997, Larry K. Powers, President and Chief Executive Officer
of Genlyte, and Timothy C. Brown, Chairman, President and Chief Executive
Officer of Thomas, met to discuss a possible business combination between
Genlyte and Thomas, including a merger of the two companies. On October 10,
1997, Messrs. Brown and Powers met again to discuss the potential advantages
and disadvantages of a possible business combination.

Mr. Brown met with Mr. Powers and Glenn Bailey, a director and one of the
principal shareholders of Genlyte, on November 25, 1997. At the meeting, a
possible combination of the lighting business of Thomas with the business of
Genlyte was discussed. Messrs. Brown, Powers and Bailey subsequently decided
to engage in further discussions regarding the possible combination of Thomas'
lighting business with Genlyte's business.

On December 10, 1997, at a meeting of the Board of Directors of Thomas, Mr.
Brown described to the Board the discussions that had taken place with Messrs.
Powers and Bailey regarding the possible combination of the lighting business
of Thomas with Genlyte's business. The Board authorized Mr. Brown to continue
such discussions.

On January 7, 1998, Messrs. Brown and Powers met to discuss in greater
detail the terms of a potential joint venture.

On January 22, 1998, at a meeting of Genlyte's Board of Directors, Mr.
Powers described the discussions which had previously taken place with Messrs.
Brown and Bailey regarding the potential joint venture. At that meeting, the
Board authorized Mr. Powers to continue discussions with Thomas'
representatives and to retain financial and legal advisors. DLJ was thereafter
retained.

On January 23, 1998, at a meeting of Thomas' Board of Directors, Mr. Brown
discussed the proposed business combination and the Board of Directors
authorized the retention of Salomon Smith Barney as Thomas' financial advisor.

On January 30, 1998, management teams of Thomas and Genlyte met to begin
initial due diligence investigations, including the review of the operations
of the two companies and to discuss the potential synergies, cost savings and
other benefits that would result from a joint venture of the lighting business
of Thomas and the business of Genlyte. During the period following such
meeting, Thomas and Genlyte each continued their respective due diligence
investigations.

On February 11, 1998, at a meeting of the Board of Directors of Thomas, Mr.
Brown described to the Board the further discussions with Mr. Powers and his
advisors that had occurred concerning the possible transaction.

On February 12, 1998, Thomas and Genlyte, along with their financial
advisors and outside counsel, met to discuss the terms of the proposed joint
venture. During the period following such meetings, each of the parties
continued its due diligence investigation.

During the period between February 12, 1998 and April 28, 1998, the parties
met on a number of occasions to complete their due diligence, to negotiate the
terms and conditions of the definitive agreements and to further negotiate the
interests in the Joint Venture to be issued to Thomas and Genlyte.

On March 19, 1998, at a meeting of the Board of Directors of Genlyte, Mr.
Powers further reported on the status and progress of discussions with Mr.
Brown and his advisors that had occurred since the Board's last meeting
concerning a possible business combination.

12
<PAGE>

On April 16, 1998, at a meeting of the Board of Directors of Thomas, Mr.
Brown described to the Board the further discussions and the proposed terms of
the possible transaction.

On April 23, 1998, at a meeting of the Board of Directors of Genlyte, the
proposed terms and conditions of the joint venture were further discussed.

On April 28, 1998, the Board of Directors of Thomas held a special meeting
at which (i) the Board members discussed the draft Transaction Documents for
the proposed Transaction previously furnished to the Board (ii) the Board
reviewed with Thomas management and its legal and financial advisors the
proposed terms of the Transaction and the anticipated effects of the
Transaction on Thomas and the Joint Venture, (iii) members of Thomas' senior
management and Thomas' legal and financial advisors made presentations
concerning the Transaction, and (iv) Salomon Smith Barney rendered its written
opinion to the effect that, as of such date and based upon and subject to
certain matters stated in such opinion, the 32% interest in the Joint Venture
to be received by Thomas in connection with the Transaction was fair to Thomas
from a financial point of view. At such meeting, the Thomas Board of Directors
unanimously approved the Transaction and recommended that the shareholders of
Thomas vote in favor of the Transaction.

On April 28, 1998, the Board of Directors of Genlyte held a special meeting
at which (i) the Board members discussed the draft Transaction Documents for
the proposed Transaction previously furnished to the Board, (ii) the Board
reviewed with Genlyte's management and legal and financial advisors the
proposed terms of the Transaction and the potential effects of the
Transaction, (iii) members of Genlyte's senior management and Genlyte's legal
and financial advisors made presentations concerning the Transaction, and (iv)
DLJ rendered its written opinion that, as of such date and based upon and
subject to certain matters stated in such opinion, the interest to be received
by Genlyte in the Joint Venture was fair to Genlyte from a financial point of
view. At such meeting, the Genlyte Board of Directors unanimously approved the
Transaction and recommended that the shareholders of Genlyte vote in favor of
the Transaction.

The Transaction Documents were executed on April 28, 1998. A joint public
announcement was made by the parties on the morning of April 29, 1998.

REASONS FOR THE TRANSACTION

General. Thomas and Genlyte believe the Transaction represents a logical
extension of each company's strategic plans to enhance shareholder value. The
Joint Venture is expected to provide expanded business opportunities and
significant cost savings that should lead to improved earnings and cash flow
from the Contributed Businesses and, therefore, improved shareholder returns
for both companies. Thomas and Genlyte expect that the Joint Venture, upon its
formation, will be the third largest lighting fixtures and controls
manufacturer, in terms of sales, in North America. Both companies believe that
the Joint Venture, by uniting the highly complementary product lines and
geographical strengths of Genlyte and Thomas, will be better positioned to
capitalize on growth opportunities than the Contributed Businesses operating
separately.

The Joint Venture will have more than 5,000 employees and had pro forma
combined lighting sales in 1997 of more than $860 million. The Joint Venture
will have an estimated 13% share of the U.S. lighting fixture market,
including estimated U.S. market shares of 14% of the residential market, 15%
of the commercial market, 10% of the industrial market and 11% of the outdoor
market. The Joint Venture will also be the leading lighting fixture
manufacturer, in terms of market share, in Canada.

Genlyte and Thomas have different product and geographic market strengths.
Genlyte's leading brands, Lightolier (recessed downlighting and track
lighting) and Hadco (landscape lighting) complement the leading brands of
Thomas' lighting business ("Thomas Lighting"), Day-Brite (fluorescent
specification) and Gardco and Lumec (outdoor specification). In addition,
Genlyte has a strong market presence in the Northeast and Canada, while Thomas
Lighting has significant market presence in the Midwest and South. Neither
Thomas nor Genlyte anticipates any material loss of revenues as a result of
product or market overlap.

13
<PAGE>

Thomas and Genlyte have identified a number of areas in which they expect
the Joint Venture to realize significant benefits and costs savings (the
"Synergies") compared to Thomas and Genlyte operating their Contributed
Businesses separately. The sources of the Synergies include purchasing
leverage, plant rationalizations, freight savings, consolidation of warehouses
and part/process standardization. Genlyte and Thomas have also identified a
number of anticipated costs associated with achieving the Synergies (the
"Synergy Costs"). The general categories of the Synergies and Synergy Costs
are set forth in the table below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SYNERGIES 1998 1999 2000
--------- ---- ----- -----
($ IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Purchasing.............................................. $2.0 $ 6.3 $ 6.3
Freight................................................. 0.8 2.0 2.0
Plant Rationalization................................... 0.0 2.2 12.8
Revenue Synergies....................................... 0.0 4.2 8.7
Corporate Office Consolidation.......................... 0.0 1.1 1.5
---- ----- -----
Total Synergies....................................... $2.8 $15.8 $31.3
==== ===== =====
<CAPTION>
SYNERGY COSTS
-------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Plant Rationalization................................... $2.0 $ 8.5 $ 0.0
==== ===== =====
</TABLE>

"Plant Rationalization" relates to initiatives to be undertaken to improve
capacity utilization, as each company has facilities with excess manufacturing
capacity or capacity which could be deemed excess after combining the Joint
Venture's manufacturing capabilities, and reduce total manufacturing costs.
The initiatives include, among other things, plant closures and sales, sales
or movement of manufacturing tooling and equipment, redesign of facilities and
other actions taken to improve productivity. "Revenue Synergies" means the
anticipated additional sales volume through the existing sales channels of
each company expected to result from the Transaction. It is believed that
these additional sales opportunities would not be available to Genlyte or
Thomas but for the Transaction. "Synergy Costs" consist of costs related to
employee severance and the costs of disposing of facilities and excess
equipment and relocating equipment.

Given the inherent risks and difficulties in combining businesses such as
the Contributed Businesses, there can be no assurance that the aggregate
amount of the Synergies will equal the amounts set forth above or that any or
all of the Synergies will be realized, if at all, in the anticipated
timeframe. In addition, there can be no assurance that the aggregate amount of
Synergy Costs will not exceed the estimates set forth above or that the
Synergy Costs will be incurred in the timeframe set forth above. The
Transaction involves the integration of entities that have previously operated
independently and, therefore, the integration of the Contributed Businesses
will require the dedication of significant management resources. The
difficulties of combining the entities' operations may be exacerbated by the
necessity of coordinating geographically separated organizations, integrating
personnel, rationalizing facilities and combining different financial
reporting systems, processes and corporate cultures. The process of
integrating operations could cause an interruption of, or loss of momentum in,
the activities of the Joint Venture's business, including any anticipated
growth and result in higher than anticipated Synergy Costs. Difficulties
encountered in connection with implementing the Transaction could have a
material adverse effect on the business, results of operations or financial
condition of the Joint Venture.

Moreover, the analyses employed to develop estimates of potential Synergies
were necessarily based upon various assumptions that involve judgments
regarding future economic and competitive conditions, inflation rates,
interest rates and financial market conditions, all of which are difficult to
predict and many of which are beyond the control of Thomas and Genlyte. In
view of historical cyclicality of the lighting fixture industry, there can be
no assurance that the positive effects of the Synergies will not be offset, in
whole or in part, by deteriorating industry conditions and other factors
outside of Thomas' and Genlyte's control. The Synergy Costs are based on
estimates and assumptions involving judgments related to future costs,
inflation rates and market conditions related to real estate and machinery and
equipment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond
the control of Thomas and Genlyte.

14
<PAGE>

Thomas' Reasons for the Transaction

In reaching its determination to approve the Transaction and to recommend
that the Thomas shareholders approve the Transaction pursuant to the terms of
the Transaction Documents, the Thomas Board of Directors considered a number
of factors, including, without limitation:

. the need of Thomas with respect to its lighting business to expand its
market share and to improve operational efficiencies to effectively
compete in the lighting industry and in that context the fact that the
Thomas Board and management considered Genlyte to be the best joint
venture candidate in terms of business fit and potential synergies;

. its knowledge and review of the financial condition, results of
operations and business prospects of Genlyte, including Thomas' belief
through due diligence that the Synergies described above are achievable;

. its evaluation of the Percentage Interests to be received by Thomas and
the structure of the Transaction, including the potential negative
consequences to Thomas including (a) loss of day-to-day operational
control of Thomas Lighting, (b) inability to transfer its Percentage
Interest until January 31, 2002, (c) the financial costs of integrating
the two companies' operations, (d) the potential of an adverse resolution
of the Litigation against Genlyte which could trigger a Change of Control
under the LLC Agreement and result in the sale of Thomas' Percentage
Interest, and (e) Thomas Board's acknowledgement that the Joint Venture's
ability to achieve anticipated financial results is dependent upon
various factors, including economic conditions, the ability to integrate
the cultures and operations of both companies, the realization of the
Synergies, and unanticipated changes in business conditions and, as a
result, there can be no assurances that the Joint Venture can attain such
financial results;

. (a) Thomas Board's view that the Transaction is consistent with Thomas'
long-term strategy to separate its lighting business and compressor and
vacuum pump business and to allow Thomas to focus on expanding its
compressor and vacuum pump business, (b) the Synergies, and (c) the
Transaction is expected to be accretive to earnings for the year ending
December 31, 1999. The Thomas Board also considered the potential impact
on the financial position of Thomas, including the Debt Equalization Note
and the working capital adjustment; and

. the opinion of Salomon Smith Barney dated April 28, 1998 to the effect
that, as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to
certain matters stated therein, the Percentage Interest to be received by
Thomas in the Transaction was fair from a financial point of view to
Thomas.

The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
Thomas Board is not intended to be exhaustive but is believed to include all
material factors considered by the Thomas Board. In reaching its determination
to approve the Transaction, the Thomas Board did not assign any relative or
specific weights to the foregoing factors, and individual directors may have
given differing weights to differing factors. After deliberating with respect
to the Transaction and considering, among other things, the factors set forth
above, the Thomas Board, by a unanimous vote, approved the Transaction as
being in the best interests of Thomas and its shareholders.

Genlyte's Reasons for the Transaction

In the course of its deliberations concerning the Transaction, Genlyte's
Board of Directors considered both the advantages and disadvantages of the
Transaction to Genlyte and its shareholders. Factors considered by the Board
to be advantageous to Genlyte and its shareholders included the following:

. the Synergies described above;

. Genlyte's Percentage Interest in the Joint Venture;

15
<PAGE>

. the opinion of DLJ dated April 28, 1998 to the effect that, as of the
date of such opinion and based upon and subject to certain matters stated
therein, the consideration to be received by Genlyte in the Transaction
was fair to Genlyte from a financial point of view; and

. Larry Powers' role as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Joint
Venture.

Factors considered by the Genlyte Board to be disadvantageous to Genlyte and
its shareholders included the following:

. ability to successfully integrate two significant lighting businesses and
the amount of management time and focus required to complete the
integration; and

. integrating differing employee benefit programs.

After considering the advantages and disadvantages of the Transaction,
including those set forth above, Genlyte's Board of Directors determined that
the Transaction was in the best interests of Genlyte and its shareholders. In
view of the various factors considered in connection with its evaluation of
the Transaction, Genlyte's Board of Directors did not find it practicable to,
and did not, quantify or otherwise attempt to assign relative weights to the
specific factors considered in reaching its decision.

STRUCTURE OF THE TRANSACTION

Thomas and Genlyte considered a number of alternative structures with
respect to combining Genlyte's business with the lighting business of Thomas.
A joint venture in the form of limited liability company was determined by the
parties to be the most advantageous structure to both Thomas and Genlyte. From
Thomas' perspective, the structure of the Transaction, in which Thomas retains
a significant ownership interest in the Joint Venture, provides Thomas with
the opportunity to realize the anticipated financial benefits resulting from
the Synergies discussed above. The joint venture structure also allows both
parties to benefit from being part of a much larger enterprise without
incurring the indebtedness or dilution typically associated with an
acquisition. The limited liability structure was primarily used for tax
purposes. Limited liability companies are treated as partnerships for tax
purposes and as a result, the Joint Venture will not be subject to federal
income tax. Furthermore, under the proposed Transaction structure, Genlyte
retains liability and responsibility for the Litigation. See "Summary of
Transaction Documents; The Capitalization Agreements--Litigation."

Genlyte and Thomas considered a stock for stock merger of the two companies
but decided against this structure because (i) the compressor and vacuum pump
business of Thomas would have been included in a merger transaction which
would have further complicated the proposed Transaction, (ii) no material
synergies would have been realized with respect to Thomas' compressor and
vacuum pump business in connection with a merger and (iii) the combined merged
entity would have had liability and responsibility for the Litigation. A sale
of either Genlyte or the Thomas lighting business was not considered because
neither Genlyte nor Thomas desired to sell and any sale transaction would have
resulted in a significant tax liability for the selling party.

RECOMMENDATION OF THE THOMAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

At a meeting of Thomas' Board of Directors held on April 28, 1998, the Board
of Directors of Thomas unanimously determined that the Transaction is in the
best interests of Thomas and its shareholders, unanimously approved the
Transaction and unanimously recommended that holders of Thomas Common Stock
vote "FOR" approval of the Thomas Asset Contribution.

RECOMMENDATION OF THE GENLYTE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

At a meeting of Genlyte's Board of Directors held on April 28, 1998, the
Board of Directors of Genlyte unanimously determined that the Transaction is
in the best interests of Genlyte and its shareholders, unanimously

16
<PAGE>

approved the Transaction and unanimously recommended that holders of Genlyte
Common Stock vote "FOR" approval of the Genlyte Asset Contribution.

OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISOR TO THOMAS

Salomon Smith Barney was retained by Thomas to act as its financial advisor
in connection with the proposed Transaction. In connection with such
engagement, Thomas requested that Salomon Smith Barney evaluate the fairness,
from a financial point of view, to Thomas of the 32% interest in the Joint
Venture to be received by Thomas (the "Thomas Allocation"). Salomon Smith
Barney delivered to the Thomas Board a written opinion dated April 28, 1998 to
the effect that, as of the date of such opinion and based upon and subject to
certain matters stated therein, the Thomas Allocation was fair, from a
financial point of view, to Thomas.

In arriving at its opinion, Salomon Smith Barney reviewed the Capitalization
Agreements and certain related documents, and held discussions with certain
senior officers, directors and other representatives and advisors of Thomas
and certain senior officers and other representatives of Genlyte concerning
the operations and prospects of the Contributed Businesses. Salomon Smith
Barney examined certain available business and financial information relating
to the Contributed Businesses as well as certain financial forecasts and other
information and data for the Contributed Businesses which were provided to or
otherwise discussed with Salomon Smith Barney by the respective managements of
Thomas and Genlyte, including information relating to certain strategic
implications and operational benefits anticipated to result from the
Transaction. Salomon Smith Barney reviewed the financial terms of the
Transaction as set forth in the Capitalization Agreements and certain related
documents in relation to, among other things, the historical and projected
earnings and other operating data of the Contributed Businesses and the
financial condition of the Contributed Businesses. Salomon Smith Barney
analyzed certain financial, stock market and other publicly available
information relating to the businesses of other companies whose operations
Salomon Smith Barney considered relevant in evaluating those of the
Contributed Businesses. Salomon Smith Barney also evaluated the potential pro
forma financial impact of the Transaction on Thomas. In addition to the
foregoing, Salomon Smith Barney conducted such other analyses and examinations
and considered such other financial, economic and market criteria as Salomon
Smith Barney deemed appropriate in arriving at its opinion. Salomon Smith
Barney noted that its opinion was necessarily based upon information
available, and financial, stock market and other conditions and circumstances
existing and disclosed, to Salomon Smith Barney as of the date of its opinion.

In rendering its opinion, Salomon Smith Barney assumed and relied, without
independent verification, upon the accuracy and completeness of all financial
and other information and data publicly available or furnished to or otherwise
reviewed by or discussed with Salomon Smith Barney. With respect to financial
forecasts and other information and data provided to or otherwise reviewed by
or discussed with Salomon Smith Barney, the managements of Thomas and Genlyte
advised Salomon Smith Barney that such forecasts and other information and
data were reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently available
estimates and judgments of the respective managements of Thomas and Genlyte as
to the expected future financial performance of the Contributed Businesses and
the strategic implications and operational benefits (including the amount,
timing and achievability thereof) anticipated to result from the Transaction.
Salomon Smith Barney assumed, with the consent of the Thomas Board, that the
Transaction will be treated as a tax-free exchange for federal income tax
purposes. Salomon Smith Barney's opinion, as set forth therein, relates to the
relative values of the Contributed Businesses. Salomon Smith Barney did not
express any opinion as to what the value of the interests in the Joint Venture
actually will be when issued pursuant to the Transaction or the prices at
which the interests in the Joint Venture will be transferable subsequent to
the Transaction. Salomon Smith Barney did not make and was not provided with
an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities
(contingent or otherwise) of the Contributed Businesses nor did Salomon Smith
Barney make any physical inspection of the properties or assets of the
Contributed Businesses. Representatives of Thomas and Genlyte advised Salomon
Smith Barney that the

17
<PAGE>

Joint Venture will not assume or otherwise be responsible for any Excluded
Liabilities (as defined in the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement) of Genlyte
and therefore Salomon Smith Barney assumed, with the consent of the Thomas
Board, that such Excluded Liabilities will not have a material adverse effect
on the financial condition or results of operations of the Joint Venture. In
connection with its engagement, Salomon Smith Barney was not requested to, and
did not, solicit third party indications of interest in all or a part of the
Thomas Contributed Business. Salomon Smith Barney was not requested to
consider, and Salomon Smith Barney's opinion does not address, the relative
merits of the Transaction as compared to any alternative business strategies
that might exist for Thomas or the effect of any other transaction in which
Thomas might engage. Although Salomon Smith Barney evaluated the Thomas
Allocation from a financial point of view to Thomas and provided financial
advice to Thomas during the course of negotiations, Salomon Smith Barney was
not asked to and did not recommend the specific Thomas Allocation, which was
determined through negotiation between Thomas and Genlyte. No other
limitations were imposed by Thomas on Salomon Smith Barney with respect to the
investigations made or procedures followed by Salomon Smith Barney in
rendering its opinion.

THE FULL TEXT OF THE WRITTEN OPINION OF SALOMON SMITH BARNEY DATED APRIL 28,
1998, WHICH SETS FORTH THE ASSUMPTIONS MADE, MATTERS CONSIDERED AND
LIMITATIONS ON THE REVIEW UNDERTAKEN, IS ATTACHED HERETO AS APPENDIX A AND
SHOULD BE READ CAREFULLY IN ITS ENTIRETY. SALOMON SMITH BARNEY HAS CONSENTED
TO THE INCLUSION OF ITS OPINION LETTER TO THE THOMAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS AS
APPENDIX A HERETO. IN GIVING SUCH CONSENT, SALOMON SMITH BARNEY DOES NOT ADMIT
THAT IT COMES WITHIN THE CATEGORY OF PERSONS WHOSE CONSENT IS REQUIRED UNDER
SECTION 7 OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE "SECURITIES ACT"), OR
THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE SEC THEREUNDER, NOR DOES IT THEREBY ADMIT
THAT IT IS AN EXPERT WITH RESPECT TO ANY PART OF THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT
WITHIN THE MEANING OF THE TERM "EXPERTS" AS USED IN THE SECURITIES ACT, OR THE
RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE SEC THEREUNDER. THE OPINION OF SALOMON SMITH
BARNEY IS DIRECTED TO THE THOMAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND RELATES ONLY TO THE
FAIRNESS OF THE THOMAS ALLOCATION FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW TO THOMAS,
DOES NOT ADDRESS ANY OTHER ASPECT OF THE TRANSACTION OR RELATED TRANSACTIONS
AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION TO ANY SHAREHOLDER AS TO HOW SUCH
SHAREHOLDER SHOULD VOTE AT THE THOMAS MEETING. THE SUMMARY OF THE OPINION OF
SALOMON SMITH BARNEY SET FORTH IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT IS QUALIFIED IN
ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE FULL TEXT OF SUCH OPINION.

In preparing its opinion, Salomon Smith Barney performed a variety of
financial and comparative analyses, including those described below. The
summary of such analyses does not purport to be a complete description of the
analyses underlying Salomon Smith Barney's opinion. The preparation of a
fairness opinion is a complex analytic process involving various
determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial
analyses and the application of those methods to the particular circumstances
and, therefore, such an opinion is not readily susceptible to summary
description. Accordingly, Salomon Smith Barney believes that its analyses must
be considered as a whole and that selecting portions of its analyses and
factors, without considering all analyses and factors, could create a
misleading or incomplete view of the processes underlying such analyses and
opinion. In its analyses, Salomon Smith Barney made numerous assumptions with
respect to the Contributed Businesses, the Joint Venture, industry
performance, general business, economic, market and financial conditions and
other matters, many of which are beyond the control of Thomas and Genlyte. The
estimates contained in such analyses and the valuation ranges resulting from
any particular analysis are not necessarily indicative of actual values or
predictive of future results or values, which may be significantly more or
less favorable than those suggested by such analyses. In addition, analyses
relating to the value of businesses or securities do not purport to be
appraisals or to reflect the prices at which businesses or securities actually
may be sold. Accordingly, such analyses and estimates are inherently subject
to substantial uncertainty. Salomon Smith Barney's opinion and analyses were
only one of many factors considered by the Thomas Board of Directors in its
evaluation of the Transaction and should not be viewed as determinative of the
views of the Thomas Board of Directors or management with respect to the
Thomas Allocation or the proposed Transaction.

Contribution Analysis. Salomon Smith Barney analyzed the respective
contributions of Thomas and Genlyte to the estimated enterprise value of the
Joint Venture by comparing the respective earnings before interest, taxes,

18
<PAGE>

depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") and earnings before interest and
taxes ("EBIT") associated with the contributed assets and liabilities of
Thomas and Genlyte and certain adjustments to such estimates. Pursuant to the
Capitalization Agreements, Thomas will receive a long-term note proportionate
to the amount of long-term debt which Genlyte will be contributing to the
Joint Venture such that their respective equity ownership percentages and
enterprise ownership percentages will be equivalent. Salomon Smith Barney
compared the total range of contributions for Thomas and Genlyte resulting
from this analysis to the Thomas Allocation and Genlyte Allocation of 32% and
68%, respectively. Salomon Smith Barney also analyzed the respective
contributions of Thomas and Genlyte to the implied equity value of the Joint
Venture based on the implied equity reference ranges for the assets and
liabilities to be contributed to the Joint Venture by Thomas and Genlyte as
derived from the methodologies described below under the captions "Selected
Company Analysis" and "Discounted Cash Flow Analysis." This analysis indicated
that Thomas would be contributing approximately 29.2% to 30.8% of the equity
value of the Joint Venture and Genlyte would be contributing approximately
69.2% to 70.8% of the equity value of the Joint Venture, as compared to the
Thomas Allocation and Genlyte Allocation of 32% and 68%, respectively.

Selected Company Analysis. Using publicly available information, Salomon
Smith Barney analyzed, among other things, the market values and trading
multiples of Thomas and Genlyte and the following selected publicly traded
companies in the lighting industry: Juno Lighting Inc.; LSI Industries Inc.;
and Holophane Corporation (the "Selected Companies"). Salomon Smith Barney
compared market values as a multiple of, among other things, estimated
calendar 1998 and 1999 net income, and adjusted market values (equity market
value, plus debt, minority interests, preferred stock and out-of-the-money
convertible securities, less investments in unconsolidated affiliates and
cash) as multiples of, among other things, the latest 12 months and estimated
calendar 1998 EBITDA. All multiples for the Selected Companies were based on
closing stock prices as of April 24, 1998. Net income estimates for the
Selected Companies were based on estimates of selected investment banking
firms and net income estimates for Thomas and Genlyte were based on internal
estimates of the managements of Thomas and Genlyte. Salomon Smith Barney
derived implied equity reference ranges for the assets and liabilities of
Thomas and Genlyte to be contributed to the Joint Venture by applying a range
of selected multiples for the Selected Companies of estimated calendar 1998
and 1999 net income of 15.5x to 16.5x and 13.5x to 14.5x, respectively, and
latest 12 months and estimated calendar 1998 EBITDA of 7.5x to 8.5x and 7.0x
to 8.0x, respectively, to corresponding financial data for such contributed
assets and liabilities. Based on calculations derived from these implied
equity reference ranges, the relative contributions of Thomas and Genlyte to
the implied equity value of the Joint Venture was approximately 29.2% to 29.9%
and 70.1% to 70.8%, respectively (or approximately 29.2% to 30.0% and 70.0% to
70.8%, respectively, after applying for illustrative purposes a 30% control
premium to such equity reference ranges), as compared to the Thomas Allocation
and Genlyte Allocation of 32% and 68%, respectively.

No company or business used in the "Selected Company Analysis" as a
comparison is identical to Thomas, Genlyte or the Joint Venture. Accordingly,
an analysis of the results of the foregoing is not entirely mathematical;
rather, it involves complex considerations and judgments concerning
differences in financial and operating characteristics and other factors that
could affect the acquisition, public trading or other values of the Selected
Companies or the business segment or company to which they are being compared.

Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. Salomon Smith Barney performed separate
discounted cash flow analyses of the projected free cash flow of the Joint
Venture and the assets and liabilities of Thomas and Genlyte to be contributed
to the Joint Venture over the period 1998 through 2002, based on internal
estimates of the managements of Thomas and Genlyte. The stand-alone discounted
cash flow analysis of the Joint Venture and such contributed assets and
liabilities was determined by (i) adding (x) the present value at December 31,
1997 of the projected free cash flows of the Joint Venture and such
contributed assets and liabilities over the five-year period from 1998 to 2002
and (y) the present value at December 31, 1997 of the estimated terminal value
of the Joint Venture and such contributed assets and liabilities in year 2002
and (ii) subtracting the current net debt at December 31, 1997 of the Joint
Venture and such contributed assets and liabilities. The range of estimated
terminal values of the Joint Venture and such contributed assets and
liabilities at the end of the five-year period

19
<PAGE>

was calculated by applying terminal value multiples ranging from 7.5x to 8.5x
to the projected 2002 EBITDA of the Joint Venture and such contributed assets
and liabilities. The cash flows and terminal values were discounted to present
value using discount rates ranging from 10% to 12%. The mean equity reference
ranges derived from this analysis utilizing such terminal values and discount
rates indicated relative contributions by Thomas and Genlyte to the implied
equity value of the Joint Venture of approximately 30.2% to 30.8% and 69.2% to
69.8%, respectively, as compared to the Thomas Allocation and Genlyte
Allocation of 32% and 68%, respectively.

Pro Forma Transaction Analysis. Salomon Smith Barney analyzed, among other
things, the potential pro forma impact of the Transaction on the earnings per
share ("EPS") of Thomas, based on internal estimates of the managements of
Thomas and Genlyte for fiscal years 1998 through 2000, with particular focus
on fiscal years 1999 and 2000. This analysis indicated that the Transaction
would be accretive to the EPS of Thomas in fiscal years 1999 and 2000, after
taking into account certain synergies and other operational benefits
anticipated by the managements of Thomas and Genlyte to result from the
Transaction. The actual results achieved by the Joint Venture may vary from
projected results and the variations may be material.

Other Factors and Comparative Analyses. In rendering its opinion, Salomon
Smith Barney considered certain other factors and conducted certain other
comparative analyses, including, among other things, a review of (i) the
historical and projected financial results of Thomas and Genlyte and projected
financial results of the Joint Venture, (ii) the relationship between
movements in Thomas Common Stock, Genlyte Common Stock and the S&P 500 Index,
(iii) the relative implied values of the Thomas Allocation and the assets and
liabilities to be contributed by Thomas to the Joint Venture and (iv) the
relative market values and trading multiples of the Selected Companies and
selected companies in the flow control industry.

Pursuant to the terms of Salomon Smith Barney's engagement, Thomas has
agreed to pay Salomon Smith Barney for its services in connection with the
Transaction an aggregate financial advisory fee of $1,500,000, a substantial
portion of which will only be payable upon consummation of the Transaction.
Thomas also has agreed to reimburse Salomon Smith Barney for reasonable travel
and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Salomon Smith Barney in
performing its services, including the reasonable fees and expenses of its
legal counsel, and to indemnify Salomon Smith Barney and related persons
against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the federal
securities laws, arising out of Salomon Smith Barney's engagement.

Salomon Smith Barney has advised Thomas that, in the ordinary course of
business, Salomon Smith Barney and its affiliates may actively trade or hold
the securities of Thomas and Genlyte for their own account or for the account
of customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or short position
in such securities. Salomon Smith Barney has in the past provided investment
banking services to Thomas unrelated to the proposed Transaction, for which
services Salomon Smith Barney has received compensation. In addition, Salomon
Smith Barney and its affiliates (including Travelers Group Inc. and its
affiliates) may maintain relationships with Thomas, Genlyte and their
respective affiliates.

Salomon Smith Barney is an internationally recognized investment banking
firm and was selected by Thomas based on its experience, expertise and
familiarity with Thomas and its business. Salomon Smith Barney regularly
engages in the valuation of businesses and their securities in connection with
mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive bids,
secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private placements
and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes.

OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISOR TO GENLYTE

Genlyte engaged DLJ to act as Genlyte's financial advisor in connection with
the proposed Transaction and to evaluate the fairness to Genlyte, from a
financial point of view, of the consideration to be received by Genlyte in the
Transaction. On April 28, 1998, DLJ delivered to Genlyte's Board of Directors
its written opinion (the "DLJ Opinion") to the effect that, as of such date,
based on and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set
forth in such opinion, the consideration to be received by Genlyte in the
Transaction was fair to Genlyte from a financial point of view.

20
<PAGE>

THE FULL TEXT OF THE DLJ OPINION IS ATTACHED HERETO AS APPENDIX B. THE
SUMMARY OF THE DLJ OPINION SET FORTH IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE FULL TEXT OF THE DLJ OPINION.
GENLYTE SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE DLJ OPINION CAREFULLY AND IN ITS
ENTIRETY FOR THE PROCEDURES FOLLOWED, ASSUMPTIONS MADE, OTHER MATTERS
CONSIDERED AND LIMITS OF THE REVIEW BY DLJ IN CONNECTION WITH SUCH OPINION.
DLJ HAS CONSENTED TO THE INCLUSION OF ITS OPINION LETTER TO THE GENLYTE BOARD
OF DIRECTORS AS APPENDIX B.

The DLJ Opinion was prepared for the Genlyte Board of Directors and was
directed only to the fairness from a financial point of view, as of the date
thereof, of the consideration to be received by Genlyte in the Transaction.
The DLJ Opinion does not address the relative merits of the Transaction and
the other business strategies considered by the Genlyte Board of Directors nor
does it address the Genlyte Board of Director's decision to proceed with the
Transaction. The DLJ Opinion also does not constitute a recommendation to any
Genlyte shareholder as to how such shareholder should vote on the Transaction.

Genlyte selected DLJ as its financial advisor because it is an
internationally recognized investment banking firm that has substantial
experience in the lighting industry and is familiar with Genlyte and its
businesses. DLJ was not retained as an advisor or agent to the shareholders of
Genlyte or any other person. As part of its investment banking business, DLJ
is regularly engaged in the valuation of businesses and securities in
connection with mergers, acquisitions, underwritings, sales and distributions
of listed and unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for
corporate and other purposes. The type and amount of consideration was
determined in arm's length negotiations between Genlyte and Thomas. Genlyte
did not impose any restrictions or limitations upon DLJ with respect to the
investigations made or the procedures followed by DLJ in rendering the DLJ
Opinion.

In arriving at the DLJ Opinion, DLJ reviewed the drafts of the Transaction
Documents dated April 25, 1998 as well as financial and other information that
was publicly available or furnished to DLJ by Genlyte and Thomas, including
information provided during discussions with their respective managements. The
April 25 drafts of the Transaction Documents were the same documents presented
to the Board of Directors of Genlyte. DLJ was present at the meeting of April
28, 1998 at which counsel for Genlyte reviewed changes from the draft to
final, executed documents and advised that such changes did not materially
change or affect the Transaction. Included in the information provided during
discussions with their respective managements were certain financial
projections of Genlyte prepared by management of Genlyte for the period
beginning January 1, 1998 and ending December 31, 2000 and certain financial
projections of the Thomas lighting business prepared by management of Thomas
for the period beginning January 1, 1998 and ending December 31, 2000. Genlyte
and Thomas informed DLJ that they provided the same financial information and
projections to Salomon Smith Barney, Thomas' financial advisor. In addition,
DLJ conducted such other financial studies, analyses and investigations as DLJ
deemed appropriate for purposes of rendering the DLJ Opinion.

In rendering the DLJ Opinion, DLJ relied upon and assumed the accuracy and
completeness of all of the financial and other information that was available
to it from public sources, that was provided to it by Genlyte and Thomas,
their respective representatives, or that was otherwise reviewed by DLJ. In
particular, DLJ relied upon the estimates from the managements of Genlyte and
Thomas as to the amount of certain operating synergies estimated by their
respective managements to be achievable as a result of the Transaction and
upon DLJ's discussions of such operating synergies and the timing thereof with
the managements of Genlyte and Thomas. With respect to the financial
projections supplied to DLJ, DLJ assumed that they were reasonably prepared on
the basis reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of
the managements of Genlyte and Thomas as to the future operating and financial
performance of Genlyte and the Thomas Contributed Business. DLJ did not assume
responsibility for making any independent evaluation of the assets or
liabilities of Genlyte and the Thomas Contributed Business or for making any
independent verification of the information reviewed by DLJ. DLJ further
assumed that the Transaction will be accounted for as a purchase transaction
under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. DLJ relied as to certain
legal matters on advice of counsel to Genlyte.

21
<PAGE>

The DLJ Opinion was necessarily based on economic, market, financial and
other conditions as they existed on, and on the information made available to
it as of, the date of the DLJ Opinion. The DLJ Opinion states that, although
subsequent developments may affect the DLJ Opinion, DLJ does not have any
obligation to update, revise or reaffirm its opinion.

The following is a summary of the presentation made by DLJ to the Genlyte
Board of Directors at its April 28, 1998 meeting in connection with rendering
the DLJ Opinion.

Contribution Analysis. DLJ analyzed the relative contributions of Genlyte
and Thomas' Contributed Business to the pro forma combined entity based on
selected financial data, assuming no Synergies. DLJ compared the relative
contribution of Genlyte to EBITDA, EBIT and net income for 1997, projected
1998 and the yearly average for the period 1996 through projected 1998 for the
pro forma combined entity. In each case, the financial data for the pro forma
combined entity was determined by adding the financial data for Genlyte and
the Thomas Contributed Business. This analysis indicated an implied range of
Genlyte's ownership in the Joint Venture of 65.5% to 70.0%.

Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. DLJ performed a discounted cash flow ("DCF")
analysis of both Genlyte and Thomas' Contributed Business using projections
and assumptions provided by their respective managements. The DCFs for both
companies were estimated using discount rates ranging from 9.0% to 11.0% and
estimated terminal EBITDA multiples in 2002 ranging from 7.0x to 9.0x. DLJ
compared the ownership of Genlyte to the standalone DCF values of the assets
and liabilities contributed by each company to the Joint Venture. Based on the
relative DCF valuation, the implied Genlyte ownership ranged from 60.9% to
74.8%.

The summary set forth above does not purport to be a complete description of
the analyses performed by DLJ but describes, in summary form, the principal
elements of the presentation made by DLJ to the Genlyte Board of Directors on
April 28, 1998. The preparation of a fairness opinion involves various
determinations as to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial
analysis and the application of these methods to the particular circumstances
and, therefore, such an opinion is not readily susceptible to summary
description. Each of the analyses conducted by DLJ was carried out in order to
provide a different perspective on the Transaction and to add to the total mix
of information available. DLJ did not form a conclusion as to whether any
individual analysis, considered in isolation, supported or failed to support
an opinion as to fairness from a financial point of view. Rather, in reaching
its conclusion, DLJ considered the results of the analyses in light of each
other and ultimately reached its opinion based on the results of all analyses
taken as a whole. Accordingly, notwithstanding the separate factors summarized
above, DLJ has indicated to Genlyte that it believes that its analyses must be
considered as a whole and that selecting portions of its analyses and the
factors considered by it, without considering all analyses and factors, could
create an incomplete view of the evaluation process underlying the DLJ
Opinion. The analyses performed by DLJ are not necessarily indicative of
actual values or future results, which may be significantly more or less
favorable than suggested by such analyses.

Pursuant to the terms of an engagement agreement dated February 23, 1998,
Genlyte (i) has paid DLJ a fee of $400,000 and (ii) will pay an additional
$1,200,000, payable upon consummation of the Transaction. Genlyte has also
agreed that if the Transaction is not consummated and Genlyte receives a
"termination fee" or other compensation, Genlyte will pay to DLJ (in addition
to the $400,000 fee already paid) an amount equal to the lesser of (i) 25% of
such fee or other compensation or (ii) $1,200,000. In addition, Genlyte has
agreed to reimburse DLJ, upon request by DLJ from time to time, for all out-
of-pocket expenses (including the reasonable fees and expenses of counsel)
incurred by DLJ in connection with its engagement thereunder and to indemnify
DLJ and certain related persons against certain liabilities in connection with
its engagement, including liabilities under U.S. federal securities laws. DLJ
and Genlyte negotiated the terms of the fee arrangement, and the Genlyte Board
of Directors was aware of such arrangement, including the fact that a
significant portion of the aggregate fee payable to DLJ is contingent upon
consummation of the Transaction.

In the ordinary course of business, DLJ and its affiliates may own or
actively trade the securities of Genlyte and Thomas for their own accounts and
for the accounts of their customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a
long or short position in Genlyte's or Thomas' securities.

22
<PAGE>

CERTAIN CONSEQUENCES OF THE TRANSACTION

After the Closing of the Transaction, both Thomas and Genlyte will continue
to exist as separate publicly traded companies in accordance with the current
provisions of their respective certificates of incorporation and bylaws, which
will remain unchanged by the Transaction. Thomas' assets will consist of its
compressor and vacuum pump business and its 32% interest in the Joint Venture.
Genlyte's assets will consist principally of its 68% interest in the Joint
Venture. After the Closing, Thomas and Genlyte will be engaged in the
Contributed Businesses only through their respective interests in the Joint
Venture and their Representatives on the Management Board. The Joint Venture
is not assuming the Excluded Liabilities of each of Thomas and Genlyte. See
"Summary of Transaction Documents; Capitalization Agreements--Excluded
Liabilities" and "--Litigation."

After the Closing, holders of Thomas Common Stock and holders of Genlyte
Common Stock will continue to have their respective voting rights as to Thomas
and Genlyte with respect to their shares. After the Closing, shareholders will
not have the right to directly vote in favor of, or against, the
Representatives. The Representatives of the Management Board, who will
directly manage the business and affairs of the Joint Venture, will be
appointed by the respective Boards of Directors of Thomas and Genlyte. The
Management Board will have the ability, subject to the limitations related to
matters requiring Special Approval, to permit the transfer of membership
interests and admit new members to the Joint Venture and issue additional
interests in the Joint Venture, thereby potentially diluting Genlyte's and
Thomas' interests in the Joint Venture without the approval of the
shareholders of either Genlyte or Thomas. See "Summary of Transaction
Documents; The Limited Liability Company Agreement--Management."

After the Closing, Genlyte's assets will consist of its Percentage Interest
in the Joint Venture. Upon a liquidation or dissolution of Genlyte and a
distribution of its assets to shareholders, Genlyte's shareholders would
receive a pro rata share of Genlyte's interest in the Joint Venture, but would
not receive directly the assets of the Genlyte Contributed Business. Under
Delaware corporate law, the sale of substantially all of the assets of the
Joint Venture or a merger involving the Joint Venture in which Genlyte and
Thomas do not control the surviving entity would require the approval of a
majority of the outstanding shares of Genlyte Common Stock and Genlyte would
seek the approval of its shareholders.

After the Closing, Thomas' assets will consist of its compressor and vacuum
pump business and its Percentage Interest in the Joint Venture. Upon a
liquidation or dissolution of Thomas and a distribution of its assets to
shareholders, Thomas' shareholders would receive a pro rata share of (i)
Thomas' interest in the Joint Venture, but would not receive directly the
assets of the Thomas Contributed Business, and (ii) Thomas' compressor and
vacuum pump assets. If Thomas' interest in the Joint Venture constitutes
substantially all of Thomas' assets, the sale of substantially all of the
assets of the Joint Venture or a merger involving the Joint Venture in which
Genlyte and Thomas do not control the surviving entity would require the
approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of Thomas Common Stock and
Thomas would seek the approval of its shareholders.

ACCOUNTING TREATMENT

Thomas will account for its interest in the Joint Venture on an equity
basis. Genlyte will consolidate the results of the Joint Venture adjusted for
Thomas' minority interest in the Joint Venture. This accounting treatment is
reflected in the pro forma financial statements of Thomas and Genlyte that are
included in this Joint Proxy Statement. The Joint Venture will not be treated
as a joint venture for accounting purposes.

FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES

The consummation of the Transaction is not expected to have any material tax
consequences to either Thomas or Genlyte.

The Transaction will not have any federal income tax consequences for
shareholders of either Thomas or Genlyte.

23
<PAGE>

The Joint Venture will be treated as a partnership for federal income tax
purposes and therefore, the Joint Venture will not pay any federal income
taxes.

NO APPRAISAL RIGHTS

Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, neither holders of Thomas Common
Stock nor holders of Genlyte Common Stock are entitled to appraisal or
dissenters' rights in connection with the Transaction.

CLOSING DATE

The Closing is expected to take place promptly following the satisfaction of
all of the conditions set forth in the Master Transaction Agreement,
including, without limitation, receipt of the affirmative votes of the holders
of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock of each of Thomas and
Genlyte. See "Summary of Transaction Documents; The Master Transaction
Agreement--Conditions to Closing." Thomas and Genlyte anticipate that the
Closing will occur in the third quarter of 1998.

YEAR 2000 ISSUES

The Joint Venture will utilize the existing computer systems, programs and
software of Genlyte and Thomas' lighting business. Some of the computer
programs utilized by Thomas' lighting business were written using two digits
rather than four to define the applicable year. As a result, those computer
programs have time-sensitive software that recognize a date using "00" as the
year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could cause disruptions of
operations including, among other things, a temporary inability to process
transactions, send invoices or engage in similar normal business activities.
In 1996, Thomas initiated a program to address this issue so that computer
systems will function properly with respect to dates in the year 2000 and
thereafter. To date, Thomas has incurred and expensed approximately $2 million
for assessment and modification of software under this program. The program is
estimated to be completed not later than December 31, 1998, which is prior to
any anticipated impact on operating systems. Future expenditures to complete
the project are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the
financial position or results of operations of the Joint Venture. There can be
no guarantee regarding costs or completion date, and actual results could
differ materially from those anticipated. Specific factors that might cause
such material differences include, but are not limited to, the availability
and cost of personnel trained in this area, the ability to locate and correct
all relevant computer codes, and similar uncertainties.

Genlyte is in the process of conducting a comprehensive review of its
computer systems to identify those systems that may be unable to process data
accurately beyond the year 1999. A plan has been implemented whereby
identified systems will either be replaced or modified prior to June 30, 1999.
Management of Genlyte believes the execution of this plan will not cause
significant disruptions in its or the Joint Venture's operations and will
principally involve costs which would have been incurred for hardware and
software replacement in the ordinary course of business. The execution of this
plan will not have a material adverse effect on the Joint Venture's results of
operations.

Thomas and Genlyte have initiated formal communications with all significant
suppliers and large customers to determine the extent to which interface
systems are vulnerable to those third parties' failure to remediate their own
Year 2000 issues. There is no guarantee that the systems of other companies on
which the Joint Venture will rely will be timely converted so as to avoid
having a material adverse effect on the Joint Venture.

THE PARTIES

MORE DETAILED INFORMATION REGARDING THOMAS AND GENLYTE IS CONTAINED IN THE
DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN "WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION AND
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE," WHICH ARE INCORPORATED
HEREIN BY REFERENCE.

24
<PAGE>

THOMAS

Thomas operates two core businesses, organized as a lighting segment (the
"Lighting Segment") which includes consumer, commercial, industrial, and
outdoor lighting products, and a compressor and vacuum pump segment (the
"Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment") which includes applications for
industrial, medical, and laboratory markets. Thomas designs, manufactures,
markets, and sells these products. The assets of the Lighting Segment will be
contributed to the Joint Venture. Thomas operates numerous divisions and
subsidiaries, with facilities throughout the U.S. and operations in Canada
(Lighting Segment), Germany (Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment) and Mexico
(Lighting Segment and Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment). Thomas also
maintains sales offices in Brazil, England, Italy, Hong Kong, Japan, and
Taiwan for its Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment and has a joint venture in
the U.S. and Canada with a Belgian company (Lighting Segment) and a joint
venture in the U.S. with a German company (Compressor and Vaccum Pump
Segment). Thomas also maintains a purchasing office in China (Lighting
Segment). Thomas maintains corporate offices in Louisville, Kentucky.

Lighting Segment. Thomas' consumer lighting products are designed for a
broad range of applications. Thomas stresses product development to meet
changing needs and demands. Thomas typically targets the more upscale, single-
family market but also has a line for the do-it-yourself segment. Thomas also
is strongly involved in the replacement lighting market, which is a growing
component of the overall lighting industry.

Consumer lighting fixtures are manufactured and sold in the U.S., Canada and
Mexico under the Thomas, Starlight, Capri and Do-It-Yourself trade names;
those trade names are recognized as important to this segment's business.
Thomas' consumer lighting line includes high-style chandeliers and bathroom
fixtures, plus quality lighting products for foyers, dining rooms, living
rooms, entertainment areas, kitchens, bedrooms, and outdoors. These products
are distributed throughout the U.S. and Canada through a network of electrical
distributors, lighting showrooms, and home centers, which, in turn, sell to
electrical contractors, builders, and consumers.

Thomas is one of the leading manufacturers in North America of commercial
and industrial lighting products, including track, recessed, fluorescent,
high-intensity discharge ("HID"), and flexible wiring systems. These products
are manufactured in the U.S., Canada and Mexico under the trade names Thomas,
C&M, Capri, Day-Brite, Electro/Connect, Emco, Gardco, Lumec, Matrix,
McPhilben, and Omega; those trade names are recognized as important to this
segment's business. The product line includes a broad range of fixtures for
both indoor and outdoor applications including fluorescent, HID, track,
downlighting, flexible wiring systems, outdoor area flood, parking, and path
lighting, tunnel and street lighting, and micro processor controls. Thomas
stresses product development in order to provide innovative, efficient
solutions to lighting needs. Thomas' products are utilized in a variety of
applications, including those in office, education, retail, health care,
hospitality, industry, and municipal market segments.

The Lighting Segment accounted for 68% of Thomas' sales in 1997, compared to
67% in 1996 and 68% in 1995.

Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment. This segment, which is not part of
Thomas' Contributed Business, includes compressors and vacuum pumps
manufactured under the Thomas and Welch names in the U.S. and ASF/Thomas in
Europe. Thomas specializes in compressor applications below the 1.5 horsepower
range for use in the finished products of other domestic or foreign
manufacturers and in the manufacture of high vacuum systems for laboratory and
chemical markets. Such compressors and vacuum pumps are used in medical
equipment, vending machines, photocopiers, computer tape drives, automotive
and transportation equipment, liquid dispensing applications, gasoline vapor
and refrigerant recovery, waste disposal, and laboratory equipment. Thomas is
the major compressor and vacuum pump participant in the medical OEM industry
worldwide. Thomas offers a wide selection of standard air compressors and
vacuum pumps and will modify or design its products to meet exacting OEM
applications. Its products also are manufactured for private-label sale in the
construction, laboratory and chemical markets.

25
<PAGE>

In addition, Thomas manufactures and sells compressors and related
accessories for commercial and consumer use. Sales, both domestic and
international, traditionally are made through hardware stores, home centers
and building supply dealers.

The U.S. operations manufacture rotary vane, linear, piston and diaphragm
compressors, vacuum pumps and vacuum ejectors. These products are distributed
worldwide to original equipment manufacturers as well as through fluid power
and large compressor distributors. Primary markets served include medical,
environmental, instrumentation, mobile, construction, laboratory, chemical and
consumer.

The European operations manufacture a complementary line of miniature rotary
vane, piston, linear, and diaphragm compressors and vacuum pumps. These
products are currently distributed worldwide to original equipment
manufacturers. Primary applications for products manufactured in Europe
include medical, air and gas sampling, photography, and dish washing
equipment, as well as laboratory instruments and leak detection devices.

The Compressor and Vacuum Pump Segment accounted for 32% of Thomas' sales in
1997, compared to 33% in 1996 and 32% in 1995.

GENLYTE

Genlyte designs, manufactures and sells lighting fixtures and controls for a
wide variety of applications in the commercial, industrial and residential
markets. Genlyte operates in one industry segment (lighting fixtures and
controls) through the following divisions: Lightolier, Controls, Wide-Lite,
Hadco, Diamond F and Supply (Crescent, ExceLine, and Stonco product lines) in
the U.S. and Canlyte in Canada. Genlyte markets its products under the
following brand names:

In the U.S.
--Bronzelite, Crescent, Diamond F, ExceLine, Forecast, Hadco,
Lightolier Controls, Lightolier, Stonco and Wide-Lite; and

In Canada--Keene-Widelite, Lightolier, Prodel, Stonco, Uniglo and CFI
(Canadian Fluorescent Industries).

Genlyte's products primarily utilize incandescent, fluorescent, and HID
light sources and are marketed primarily to distributors who resell the
products for use in new residential, commercial, and industrial construction
as well as in remodeling existing structures. Because Genlyte does not
principally sell directly to the end-user of its products, Genlyte cannot
determine precisely the percentage of its revenues derived from the sale of
products installed in each type of building or the percentage of its products
sold for new construction versus remodeling. Genlyte's sales, like those of
the lighting fixture industry in general, are partly dependent on the level of
activity in new construction and remodeling.

Genlyte designs, manufactures and markets the following types of products:

Indoor Fixtures
--Incandescent, fluorescent, and HID lighting fixtures and
lighting controls for commercial, industrial, institutional,
medical, sports and residential markets and task lighting for
all markets.

Outdoor Fixtures
--HID and incandescent lighting fixtures and accessories for
commercial, industrial, institutional, sports, and residential
markets.

Genlyte's products are marketed by independent sales representatives and
direct sales personnel who sell to distributors, electrical wholesalers, mass
merchandisers, and national accounts. In addition, Genlyte's products are
promoted through architects, engineers, contractors and building owners. The
fixtures are principally sold throughout the U.S. and Canada.

26
<PAGE>

GENLYTE SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table presents selected financial data of Genlyte for each of
the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 1997. The historical
financial data for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994 and
1993 are derived from and should be read in conjunction with the audited
financial statements of Genlyte and the related notes thereto incorporated by
reference herein. The historical financial data for the quarters ended April
4, 1998 and March 29, 1997 are derived from and should be read in conjunction
with the unaudited financial statements of Genlyte and the related notes
thereto incorporated by reference herein.

The unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement data for the year
ended December 31, 1997 and for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 assume that
the Transaction occurred as of January 1, 1997. The unaudited pro forma
balance sheet data as of April 4, 1998 gives effect to the Transaction as if
it occurred on April 4, 1998. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
data do not purport to be indicative of what Genlyte's financial condition or
results of operations would have been had the Transaction in fact been
consummated as of the assumed dates and for the periods presented, nor are
they indicative of the results of operation or financial condition for any
future period or date.

27
<PAGE>

The financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the
historical financial statements and the related notes thereto, incorporated by
reference herein and "Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial
Statements," included elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

GENLYTE SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AS OF AND
FOR THE
QUARTER
AS OF AND FOR THE ENDED
QUARTER ENDED MARCH 29,
APRIL 4, 1998 1997 AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
-------------------- ---------- ------------------------------------------------------
UNAUDITED UNAUDITED
PRO UNAUDITED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
FORMA (A) HISTORICAL HISTORICAL 1997 (A) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
--------- ---------- ---------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA
Net Sales.............. $227,879 $130,124 $113,298 $878,599 $487,961 $456,860 $445,660 $432,690 $429,143
Gross Profit........... 74,355 44,478 38,239 289,912 169,405 154,722 138,120 128,720 127,735
Operating Profit....... 14,642 11,625 7,104 53,936 37,621 28,448 21,955 14,659 14,256
Interest Expense, net.. 1,103 844 971 6,668 4,085 5,649 7,986 7,505 8,086
Income Before Income
Taxes................. 9,091 10,781 6,133 32,321 33,536 22,799 13,969 7,154 6,170
Income Tax Provision... 3,909 4,635 2,639 13,898 14,423 9,802 6,060 2,937 2,697
Net Income............. 5,182 6,146 3,494 18,423 19,113 12,997 7,909 4,217 3,473
PER SHARE DATA:
Net Income:
Basic.................. $ 0.38 $ 0.45 $ 0.27 $ 1.40 $ 1.46 $ 1.01 $ 0.62 $ 0.33 $ 0.27
Diluted................ 0.38 0.45 0.26 1.37 1.42 1.00 0.62 0.33 0.27
Cash Dividends Declared
(b)................... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Stockholders'
Investment Per Average
Share Outstanding..... 12.69 8.08 6.50 -- 7.72 6.42 5.46 4.77 4.53
Market Range:
High................... -- 20 14 1/4 -- 21 3/8 14 8 5 1/2 7
Low.................... -- 14 7/8 8 7/8 -- 9 7/8 6 4 3 1/2 2 3/8
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working Capital........ $161,975 $ 97,101 $ 81,750 -- $ 81,961 $ 71,366 $ 75,719 $ 86,714 $ 83,039
Total Assets........... 487,629 267,015 246,470 -- 254,028 238,115 231,034 240,178 241,762
Total Long-Term
Debt.................. 60,115 40,771 47,830 -- 32,785 41,847 67,132 90,047 100,419
Stockholders'
Investment............ 173,299 110,375 87,309 -- 103,729 83,783 69,900 61,170 58,068
</TABLE>
- --------
(a) This pro forma financial data does not reflect the Synergies expected to
result from the Transaction or the related Synergy Costs. As discussed
elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the Synergies are expected to be
in excess of $30 million per annum and are expected to be fully realized
by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of
scale and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an
aggregate of $10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the Joint Venture
during the period 1998 through 2000 related to achieving the Synergies.
See "The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons for the Transaction."
(b)Genlyte has never declared or paid any dividends.

28
<PAGE>

THOMAS SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

The following table presents selected financial data of Thomas for each of
the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 1997. The historical
financial data for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, and
1993 are derived from and should be read in conjunction with the audited
financial statements of Thomas and the related notes thereto incorporated by
reference herein. The historical financial data for the quarters ended March
31, 1998, and March 31, 1997, are derived from and should be read in
conjunction with the unaudited financial statements of Thomas and the related
notes thereto incorporated by reference herein.

The unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement data for the year
ended December 31, 1997, and for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, assume that
the Transaction occurred as of January 1, 1997. The unaudited pro forma
balance sheet data as of March 31, 1998, gives effect to the Transaction as if
it occurred on that date. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial data
do not purport to be indicative of what Thomas' financial condition or results
of operations would have been had the Transaction, in fact, been consummated
as of the assumed dates and for the periods presented; nor are they indicative
of the results of operation or financial condition for any future period or
date.

29
<PAGE>

The financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the
historical financial statements and the related notes thereto, incorporated by
reference herein and "Unaudited Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial
Statements" included elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

THOMAS SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AS OF AND FOR THE QUARTERS
ENDED MARCH 31, AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------
UNAUDITED UNAUDITED
PRO FORMA UNAUDITED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
1998(A) 1998 1997 1997(A) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING DATA:
Net Sales.............. $ 48,209 $141,924 $126,356 $173,637 $547,702 $510,111 $490,573 $456,565 $450,149
Gross Profit........... 17,629 43,668 38,257 64,222 168,956 151,333 138,022 127,227 123,753
Operating Profit....... 6,494 9,896 7,894 23,600 41,456 34,158 29,738 23,136 21,313
Interest Expense, net.. 688 1,261 1,467 3,513 5,815 6,575 7,537 8,760 10,126
Income Before Income
Taxes................. 9,447 8,334 6,353 33,294 35,644 27,688 21,053 18,198 7,820
Income Tax Provision... 3,637 3,084 2,351 13,662 13,174 10,272 8,278 7,656 4,015
Net Income............. 5,810 5,250 4,002 19,632 22,470 17,416 12,775 10,542 3,805
PER SHARE DATA:
Net Income:
Basic.................. $ 0.37 $ 0.33 $ 0.25 $ 1.24 $ 1.42 $ 1.11 $ 0.84 $ 0.70 $ 0.25
Diluted................ 0.35 0.32 0.25 1.21 1.38 1.09 0.83 0.70 0.25
Cash Dividends
Declared.............. -- 0.075 0.067 -- 0.28 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.27
Stockholders'
Investment Per Average
Share Outstanding..... -- 10.81 9.87 -- 10.66 9.84 9.33 8.86 8.31
Market Range:
High................... -- 23.75 17.33 -- 22.33 15.92 16.08 10.92 9.33
Low.................... -- 18.69 13.67 -- 13.67 11.00 9.08 8.50 6.08
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Working Capital........ $ 30,788 $ 89,174 $ 80,379 -- $ 92,258 $ 85,838 $ 80,837 $ 77,558 $ 78,466
Total Assets........... 295,869 333,953 312,566 -- 327,639 319,650 313,533 305,071 302,760
Total Long-Term Debt... 47,088 47,246 54,822 -- 55,006 62,632 70,791 79,693 87,509
Stockholders' Equity... 177,346 177,346 159,514 -- 173,405 157,702 143,177 133,766 125,049
</TABLE>
- --------
(a) This pro forma financial data does not reflect the Synergies expected to
result from the Transaction or the related Synergy Costs. As discussed
elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the Synergies are expected to be
in excess of $30 million per annum and are expected to be fully realized
by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of
scale and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an
aggregate of $10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the Joint Venture
during the period 1998 through 2000 related to achieving the Synergies.
See "The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons for the Transaction."

30
<PAGE>

FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE JOINT VENTURE

Genlyte and Thomas, on behalf of the Joint Venture, have entered into a
syndication agreement for a credit facility for the Joint Venture. The Joint
Venture's credit facility is anticipated to be in the aggregate amount of $125
million (with, subject to certain conditions, the right of the Joint Venture
to increase the credit facility by $25 million), have a five year term and be
unsecured. The credit facility must be in place prior to consummation of the
Transaction.

SUMMARY OF TRANSACTION DOCUMENTS

The following is a summary of the Transaction Documents which have been
filed by both of Thomas and Genlyte with the SEC on July 24, 1998 as part of
their respective Current Reports on Form 8-K and are incorporated herein by
reference. All holders of Thomas Common Stock and Genlyte Common Stock are
encouraged to read each Transaction Document carefully. See "Where You Can
Find More Information and Incorporation of Certain Information by Reference."

THE MASTER TRANSACTION AGREEMENT

GENERAL

Pursuant to the Master Transaction Agreement, which was executed on April
28, 1998, Thomas and Genlyte agreed to form and capitalize the Joint Venture,
which is in the form of a Delaware limited liability company, to engage in the
business, operations and activities related to the manufacture, sale,
marketing and distribution of consumer, commercial, industrial and outdoor
lighting, pursuant to the LLC Agreement, dated April 28, 1998, by and among
Thomas, Genlyte and the Joint Venture. See "The Limited Liability Company
Agreement." In exchange for Thomas' contribution of the Thomas Contributed
Business in accordance with the Capitalization Agreement, dated April 28,
1998, by and between the Joint Venture and Thomas (the "Thomas Capitalization
Agreement"), Thomas will receive at Closing a 32% interest in the Joint
Venture and the Joint Venture will assume certain liabilities related to the
Thomas' Contributed Business. In exchange for Genlyte's contribution of the
Genlyte Contributed Business in accordance with the Capitalization Agreement,
dated April 28, 1998, by and between the Joint Venture and Genlyte (the
"Genlyte Capitalization Agreement"), Genlyte will receive a 68% interest in
the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture will assume substantially all of
Genlyte's liabilities.

CLOSING DATE

Thomas and Genlyte anticipate that the Closing will occur in the third
quarter of 1998. The date which the Closing occurs is referred to as the
"Closing Date."

CERTAIN COVENANTS

The Master Transaction Agreement contains certain covenants and agreements
between Thomas and Genlyte, including without limitation, the following:

Conduct of the Contributed Businesses Pending the Closing Date. Thomas and
Genlyte each have agreed that, except as expressly approved in writing by the
other party or as contemplated in the Master Transaction Agreement, during the
period commencing on April 28, 1998 and ending on the Closing Date, each party
will operate its Contributed Business in the ordinary course of business and
will:

(i) maintain inventories, except sales in the ordinary course of
business, at current levels and maintain the properties of its Contributed
Business in good repair, order and condition, reasonable wear and tear
excepted;

31
<PAGE>

(ii) maintain and keep in full force and effect all insurance on assets
and property or for the benefit of the employees of its Contributed
Business and all liability and other casualty insurance;

(iii) not merge or consolidate with or agree to merge or consolidate
with, nor purchase or agree to purchase all or substantially all of the
assets of, nor otherwise acquire, any third party;

(iv) not sell, lease or otherwise dispose of or agree to sell, lease or
otherwise dispose of, or grant an option with respect to, any of the
assets, properties, rights or claims of its Contributed Business, except
for inventory and other assets sold in the ordinary course of business;

(v) preserve intact the organization and reputation of its Contributed
Business and use its reasonable commercial efforts to keep available the
services of the present executives, employees and agents of the Contributed
Business and preserve the good will of suppliers, customers and others
having business relationships with the Contributed Business;

(vi) pay accounts payable and other obligations of its Contributed
Business when they become due and payable in the ordinary course of
business;

(vii) not grant any security interest, lien, charge, encumbrance or claim
on any assets of its Contributed Business, except in the ordinary course of
business;

(viii) maintain the books, accounts and records of its Contributed
Business in the usual, regular and ordinary manner on a basis consistent
with prior years;

(ix) not enter into, amend or terminate, or agree to enter into, amend or
terminate any material contract;

(x) not declare, set aside or pay any dividend or make any other
distribution with respect to its capital stock or the capital stock of its
respective affiliates, except dividends made in the ordinary course;

(xi) perform in all material respects all of its obligations under all
material contracts and other agreements and instruments relating to or
affecting its Contributed Business or assets thereof, and comply in all
material respects with all laws applicable to the assets of its Contributed
Business, except where non-performance or non-compliance would not have a
material adverse effect;

(xii) not enter into, amend or terminate any employment, bonus, severance
or retirement contract or arrangement, nor increase any salary or other
form of compensation payable or to become payable to any executives or
employees of the Contributed Business other than in the ordinary course of
business;

(xiii) not take any action or intentionally omit to take any action,
which action or omission would result in a breach of any of the
representations and warranties set forth under the Genlyte Capitalization
Agreement or the Thomas Capitalization Agreement, as the case may be, or in
the failure or inability of the parties to consummate the Transaction; or

(xiv) not incur or become subject to, nor agree to incur or become
subject to, any debt, obligation or liability, contingent or otherwise,
other than current liabilities and contractual obligations in the ordinary
course and except for borrowings under or refinancing of, the existing
credit facilities of Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, up to the
existing borrowing limit as of April 28, 1998.

Nothing contained in the Master Transaction Agreement gives either Thomas or
Genlyte, directly or indirectly, rights to control or direct the other party's
Contributed Business. Prior to the Closing Date, each party will exercise,
consistent with the terms and conditions of the Master Transaction Agreement,
complete control and supervision of its Contributed Business.

Alternative Proposals. Each of Thomas and Genlyte has agreed that, prior to
the Closing Date or earlier termination of the Master Transaction Agreement,
it will not, directly or indirectly, initiate, solicit or encourage, any
inquiries or the submission of any proposal or offer to acquire or operate all
or any material part of its Contributed Business or to acquire any person that
directly or indirectly owns all or any part of its Contributed Business, if
such transaction would be materially inconsistent with or preclude the
Transaction (an "Alternative Transaction").

32
<PAGE>

Notwithstanding the foregoing, in response to a proposal for an Alternative
Transaction (an "Alternative Proposal") that is unsolicited, (i) Thomas and
Genlyte may engage in discussions or negotiations regarding such Alternative
Proposal with the person who makes such Alternative Proposal (a "Potential
Acquiror"); and (ii) Thomas and Genlyte may furnish to any Potential Acquiror
confidential or non-public information concerning such party or its affiliates
only if Thomas' or Genlyte's Board of Directors, as the case may be, after
consulting with its outside legal counsel and receiving the written advice of
such counsel, determines in good faith that the failure to provide such
confidential or non-public information to or negotiate with, a Potential
Acquiror would be reasonably likely to constitute a breach of its fiduciary
duty to Thomas' or Genlyte's shareholders, as the case may be. Thomas and
Genlyte have agreed to immediately notify the other party of its receipt of
any Alternative Proposal.

Certain Other Covenants. In addition to the covenants and agreements
described above, Thomas and Genlyte have agreed, among other things, to:

(i) subject to each Board's fiduciary duties, call a meeting of their
shareholders to be held as promptly as practicable for the purpose of
voting upon the Transaction, through their Boards of Directors, recommend
to their shareholders approval and adoption of the Transaction, and use
reasonable best efforts to obtain approval of the Transaction by their
shareholders;

(ii) subject to each Board's fiduciary duties, use all reasonable efforts
to consummate the Transaction; and

(iii) notify the other party and keep it advised as to any litigation or
administrative proceeding which challenges the Transaction, any material
damage to or destruction of its Contributed Business, and any breach of its
own representations and warranties set forth in any of the Transaction
Documents.

CONDITIONS TO CLOSING

The respective obligations of Thomas and Genlyte to effect the Transaction
are subject to the following conditions, among others:

(i) approval by the shareholders of Thomas and Genlyte of the
Transaction;

(ii) the representations and warranties of the other party contained in
the Transaction Documents are true, correct and accurate as of the Closing
Date and the Joint Venture and the other party have performed all of the
obligations and complied in all material respects with each and all of the
covenants, agreements and conditions required to be performed or complied
with by them on or prior to the Closing pursuant to the Transaction
Documents;

(iii) no court or governmental, regulatory or administrative agency or
commission shall have issued an order, decree or ruling or taken any other
action (which order, decree or ruling Genlyte and Thomas will use their
commercially reasonable efforts to lift), in each case temporarily or
permanently restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the
Transaction;

(iv) receipt of all third party consents required for the consummation of
the Transaction;

(v) receipt of all regulatory approvals;

(vi) the Contributed Businesses and the contributed assets will not have
been materially adversely affected in any way;

(vii) neither Thomas nor Genlyte, as the case may be, nor the Joint
Venture nor any of the assets constituting the Contributed Businesses will
have been made a party or subject to, any litigation related to Genlyte or
Thomas, as the case may be, or any of their affiliates, which is reasonably
expected to have a material adverse effect;

(viii) the Joint Venture will have in place sufficient and adequate
insurance;

(ix) the Joint Venture will have in place on or prior to the Closing
Date, a credit facility, including a working capital line of credit, in an
amount which is appropriate given the outstanding indebtedness on the

33
<PAGE>

Closing Date, the contemplated growth, including acquisitions, and the
nature and size of the Joint Venture, on such terms as are reasonably
acceptable to Thomas and Genlyte; and

(x) all conditions precedent contained in any of the other Transaction
Documents will have been satisfied or waived and the closing or
effectiveness of the other Transaction Documents shall occur simultaneously
with the Closing.

The regulatory approvals required with respect to the Transaction involve
the approval of certain state environmental agencies with respect to the
transfer of real estate and post-closing notices in Mexico and Canada. Thomas
and Genlyte do not believe that these regulatory approvals or notices are
material or that they will delay the Closing.

TERMINATION

Termination. The Master Transaction Agreement and the other Transaction
Documents may be terminated at any time prior to the Closing:

(i) by mutual written consent of Thomas and Genlyte;

(ii) by either Thomas or Genlyte in the event that the Closing does not
occur for any reason on or before December 31, 1998; provided, however,
that if the Closing does not occur due to the act or omission of one of the
parties, that party may not terminate the Master Transaction Agreement
pursuant to the termination provisions of the Master Transaction Agreement;

(iii) by Thomas, if prior to shareholder approval and without violation
of the provisions regarding Alternative Proposals, the Thomas Board of
Directors shall have received an Alternative Proposal and shall have
determined, in the exercise of its good faith judgment and after
consultation with its legal counsel and receipt of a written opinion from
its financial advisors, that the Alternative Transaction contemplated by
such Alternative Proposal (if consummated pursuant to its terms) would be
more favorable from a financial point of view to Thomas or its
shareholders, as applicable, than the transactions contemplated by the
Transaction Documents;

(iv) by Genlyte, if prior to shareholder approval and without violation
of the provisions regarding Alternative Proposals, the Genlyte Board of
Directors shall have received an Alternative Proposal and shall have
determined, in the exercise of its good faith judgment and after
consultation with its legal counsel and receipt of a written opinion from
its financial advisors, that the Alternative Transaction contemplated by
such Alternative Proposal (if consummated pursuant to its terms) would be
more favorable from a financial point of view to Genlyte or its
shareholders, as applicable, than the transactions contemplated by the
Transaction Documents;

(v) by Thomas, if the Genlyte Board of Directors shall have resolved to
accept or recommended to the Genlyte shareholders an Alternative Proposal
or shall have withdrawn or adversely modified or taken a public position
materially inconsistent with its approval or recommendation to the
shareholders of Genlyte of the Transaction or shall not have submitted the
Transaction for the approval of its shareholders at a meeting of
shareholders or used its reasonable best efforts to obtain such shareholder
approval;

(vi) by Genlyte, if the Thomas Board of Directors shall have resolved to
accept or recommended to the Thomas shareholders an Alternative Proposal or
shall have withdrawn or adversely modified or taken a public position
materially inconsistent with its approval or recommendation to the
shareholders of Thomas of the Transaction or shall not have submitted the
Transaction for the approval of its shareholders at a meeting of
shareholders or used its reasonable best efforts to obtain such shareholder
approval;

(vii) by Thomas, if (a) a Change of Control (as defined below) of Genlyte
shall have occurred, (b) Genlyte shall have entered into a definitive
agreement providing for, or publicly announced its intention to effect, any
transaction involving a Change of Control of Genlyte or (c) a tender offer
or exchange offer shall have been commenced or publicly announced that, if
consummated, would have the effect of a Change of Control of Genlyte;

34
<PAGE>

(viii) by Genlyte, if (a) a Change of Control of Thomas shall have
occurred, (b) Thomas shall have entered into a definitive agreement
providing for, or publicly announced its intention to effect, any
transaction involving a Change of Control of Thomas or (c) a tender offer
or exchange offer shall have been commenced or publicly announced that, if
consummated, would have the effect of a Change of Control of Thomas; or

(ix) by either party, if the Transaction is not approved by the
shareholders of such party or the other party.

"Change of Control" as used in this Joint Proxy Statement means with respect
to a party the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) an acquisition
(whether directly from such party or otherwise) of any voting securities of
such party (the "Voting Securities") by any "Person" (as the term is used for
purposes of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the "Exchange Act")), immediately after which such Person has or
would have "Beneficial Ownership" (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3
promulgated under the Exchange Act) of twenty-five percent (25%) or more of
the combined voting power of such party's then outstanding Voting Securities;
(ii) the individuals who, as of the date hereof, are members of the Board of
Directors of such party (the "Incumbent Board"), cease for any reason to
constitute at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the Board of Directors;
provided, however, a "Change of Control" shall not be deemed to occur if any
of such individuals voluntarily fail to stand for re-election or resign or if
the aggregate number of Directors is reduced so long as, after giving effect
to such failure to stand for re-election, resignation or reduction, at least
seventy-five percent (75%) of the remaining Directors are members of the
Incumbent Board; provided, further however, that if the election, or
nomination for election, by such party's stockholders of any new director was
approved by a vote of at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the Incumbent
Board, such new director shall, for purposes of this Agreement, be considered
a member of the Incumbent Board; provided further, however, that an individual
shall not be considered a member of the Incumbent Board if such individual
initially assumed office as a result of either an actual or threatened
"Election Contest" (as described in Rule 14a-11 promulgated under the Exchange
Act) or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or
on behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors (a "Proxy Contest")
including by reason of any agreement intended to avoid or settle any Election
Contest or Proxy Contest; (iii) the consummation of, or agreement to
consummate: (A) a merger, consolidation, share exchange or reorganization of
such party in which the stockholders of such party, as a group, cease to hold
a majority equity interest in the surviving entity; (B) a liquidation or
dissolution of or appointment of a receiver, rehabilitator, conservator or
similar person for, such party; or (C) the sale or other disposition of all or
substantially all of the assets of such party to any Person (other than a
transfer to a subsidiary); or (iv) any other change in "control" of such
party. For purposes of the immediately preceding clause, the term "control"
shall have the meaning ascribed thereto pursuant to Rule 405 of the rules and
regulations of the SEC promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act.

Termination Fees. The Master Transaction Agreement requires that either
Thomas or Genlyte pay a termination fee to the other party in certain
circumstances. If the Master Transaction Agreement is terminated by Thomas
pursuant to clause (iii) or by Genlyte pursuant to clause (vi) or (viii) under
"Termination" described above, then Thomas will pay Genlyte a fee of $4.5
million plus documented expenses of Genlyte, which expenses will not exceed
$2.0 million in the aggregate.

If the Master Transaction Agreement is terminated by Genlyte pursuant to
clause (iv) or by Thomas pursuant to clause (v) or (vii) under "Termination"
described above, then Genlyte will pay Thomas a fee of $6.5 million plus
documented expenses of Thomas, which expenses will not exceed $2.0 million in
the aggregate.

If the Master Transaction Agreement is terminated by Thomas due to the
failure of Genlyte to obtain shareholder approval as set forth in clause (ix)
under "Termination" described above, then Genlyte will pay Thomas a fee of
$3.25 million plus documented expenses of Thomas, which expenses will not
exceed $2.0 million in the aggregate.

If the Master Transaction Agreement is terminated by Genlyte due to the
failure of Thomas to obtain shareholder approval as set forth in clause (ix)
under "Termination" described above, then Thomas will pay Genlyte a fee of
$2.25 million plus documented expenses of Genlyte, which expenses will not
exceed $2.0 million in the aggregate.

35
<PAGE>

If (i) the Master Transaction Agreement is terminated prior to the
occurrence of the Closing for any reason other than by mutual agreement, and
(ii) within 270 days from termination of the Master Transaction Agreement a
Change of Control of a party occurs or a party enters into a definitive
agreement providing for or shall publicly announce its intention to effect any
transaction involving a Change of Control of such party or involving the sale
or other disposition of all or substantially all of the Contributed Business
or assets of such party or a tender offer or exchange offer shall have been
commenced or publicly announced that, if consummated, would result in a Change
of Control of such party, the termination fees discussed above, to the extent
such fees have not already been paid, will be required to be paid.

In no event will either Thomas or Genlyte be entitled to receive more than
$6.5 million or $4.5 million, as the case may be, plus documented expenses, in
each case, of up to $2.0 million in the aggregate.

THE CAPITALIZATION AGREEMENTS

The Capitalization Agreements for each of Thomas and Genlyte are
substantially the same except as set forth below.

ASSETS CONTRIBUTED

Thomas. Thomas will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of the
assets, rights and properties used or held for use in its lighting business,
other than the Thomas Excluded Assets described below.

Genlyte. Genlyte will contribute substantially all of its assets, other than
the Genlyte Excluded Assets described below.

EXCLUDED ASSETS

Thomas. Thomas is not contributing to the Joint Venture tax refunds,
deferred tax assets, cash at the corporate level held in one of Thomas'
Canadian subsidiaries, the Beaver Dam, Kentucky plant, corporate assets,
corporate computer equipment and systems, assets related to the compressor and
vacuum pump business and certain employee benefit and pension assets. In
addition, Thomas will retain its headquarters and the names and marks "Thomas"
and "Thomas Industries Inc."

Genlyte. Genlyte is not contributing to the Joint Venture its tax refunds,
deferred tax assets, corporate books and records and cash in an amount not to
exceed $3,187,500.

CONSIDERATION

Thomas will be issued a 32% interest in the Joint Venture (the "Thomas
Percentage Interest") and the Joint Venture will assume the Assumed
Liabilities described below. In addition, on the Closing Date, the Joint
Venture will pay in cash or issue Thomas a note (the "Debt Equalization Note")
in the principal amount equal to 32/68ths of Genlyte's total long-term
indebtedness for borrowed money on the Closing Date to take account of the
fact that the Joint Venture is assuming all of the long-term indebtedness of
Genlyte. The terms of the Debt Equalization Note will be substantially similar
to the terms of the credit facility to be entered into by the Joint Venture
prior to Closing. As of March 31, 1998, the Debt Equalization Note would have
been in the principal amount of approximately $19.2 million.

Genlyte will be issued an aggregate interest in the Joint Venture
representing a 68% interest (the "Genlyte Percentage Interest") and the Joint
Venture will assume the Assumed Liabilities.

ASSUMED LIABILITIES

The Joint Venture will assume those liabilities primarily relating to the
assets being contributed or arising out of the Contributed Businesses of each
of Thomas or Genlyte (collectively, the "Assumed Liabilities"),

36
<PAGE>

except for (i) long-term indebtedness of Thomas or its Contributed Business
for borrowed money, (ii) taxes of each of Thomas or Genlyte for periods prior
to the Closing Date, whether or not relating to or arising out of their
Contributed Businesses, (iii) intercompany accounts payable that do not
represent trade accounts payable, (iv) certain liabilities in respect of
employees, employment agreements or plans except to the extent specifically
assumed by the Joint Venture, and (v) any Excluded Liabilities, described
below.

Notwithstanding the assumption of certain liabilities and obligations by the
Joint Venture, Thomas and Genlyte may continue as the primary obligor of
certain of these liabilities. Although the Joint Venture will indemnify each
of Thomas and Genlyte, and their respective affiliates, for the liabilities
assumed by the Joint Venture, Thomas or Genlyte could be liable with respect
to any such liabilities if the Joint Venture is unable to satisfy its
indemnification obligations.

EXCLUDED LIABILITIES

The Joint Venture is not assuming any of the following liabilities of
Thomas:

(i) the Thomas Industries Pension Floor Plan;

(ii) the Senior Notes;

(iii) liabilities related to the Beaver Dam, Kentucky plant (the "Beaver
Dam Liabilities"); and

(iv) environmental matters related to corporate and the compressor and
vacuum pump business.

The Joint Venture is also not assuming any liability related to the
Litigation.

LITIGATION

The Joint Venture is not assuming any liabilities related to the case
entitled Richard D. Lippe, et al., as Trustees of the Keene Creditors Trust v.
Bairnco Corporation, et al., 96 Civ. 7600 (DC) (S.D.N.Y.) (the "Litigation").
A description of the Litigation is set forth below:

Genlyte has been named as one of a number of corporate and individual
defendants in a complaint filed on June 8, 1995, arising out of the Chapter 11
bankruptcy proceedings of Keene Corporation ("Keene"). The complaint seeks
collective damages from all defendants in excess of $700 million, rescission
of certain asset sales including the Asset Sale (as defined below) and stock
transactions including the Spinoff (as defined below), and other relief. The
complaint also alleges a violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt
Organizations Act. With respect to Genlyte, the complaint principally alleges
that certain lighting assets of Keene were sold to a predecessor of Genlyte in
1984 at less than fair value (the "Asset Sale"), at a time when both Keene and
Genlyte were subsidiaries of Bairnco Corporation ("Bairnco"). Those assets
will be, among other assets, conveyed to the Joint Venture pursuant to the
Genlyte Capitalization Agreement in return for Genlyte's interest in the Joint
Venture. The purchase price for the assets in 1984 was $52.5 million. Genlyte
has not determined which assets remain, which assets have been replaced, the
value of the specific assets, or the percentage which those assets represent
as compared to the total assets to be transferred to the Joint Venture.
Genlyte does not separately report income by facility or operation, so no
estimates of income derived from each asset can be calculated. The complaint
also alleges that the spin-off of Genlyte by Bairnco to its shareholders in
1988 was a fraudulent conveyance (the "Spinoff"). The complaint also alleges
that Genlyte is liable to the creditors of Keene as a corporate successor to
Keene. The complaint does not specify the amount of damages sought against
Genlyte.

The case is currently pending before the federal district court in the
Southern District of New York. Motions to dismiss the complaint and a motion
for summary judgment based upon statute of limitations defenses were filed by
Genlyte and other defendants on September 15, 1997 and were fully briefed on
December 15, 1997. Those motions are currently pending before the Court, and
discovery in the case has been stayed. Genlyte intends to defend said action
vigorously.

37
<PAGE>

Genlyte believes that the rights and remedies of and the relief sought by
the plaintiff will not be materially altered by the Transaction. Following
consummation of the Transaction, plaintiff will retain its claim against
Genlyte and Genlyte will retain its interest in the Joint Venture. Genlyte has
agreed to indemnify the Joint Venture against any costs, expenses or liability
arising from the Litigation pursuant to the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement.
Genlyte believes that the disposition of the Litigation will not have a
material effect on Genlyte's financial condition and that the Litigation will
not adversely affect the Joint Venture or its operations. However, in the
extremely unlikely event that a judgment could be rendered against Genlyte
such that it would not be able to satisfy such judgment without a transfer of
its Percentage Interest to a third party, Thomas could deem such transfer a
Change of Control pursuant to the LLC Agreement and either put its Percentage
Interest or, in certain circumstances, cause the sale of the Joint Venture for
its Appraised Value. In such event, Thomas would still be entitled to the
Appraised Value for its Percentage Interest. All indemnification obligations
of Genlyte are to be funded from the distributions made to Genlyte by the
Joint Venture. To the extent the distributions Genlyte is entitled to receive
from the Joint Venture in any year are not sufficient to fund Genlyte's
indemnification obligations, Genlyte will issue a note to the Joint Venture in
the amount of such deficiency and future distributions to be paid by the Joint
Venture to Genlyte will be used to offset the amount outstanding under the
note. To the extent Genlyte is not entitled to any distributions or the
distributions are not sufficient to fund Genlyte's indemnification
obligations, the Joint Venture will be delayed in receiving any amounts owed
by Genlyte with respect to such indemnification obligations. See "--The
Limited Liability Company Agreement--Transfers, Withdrawals and Deadlock."

All other litigation against the Contributed Businesses will be assumed by
the Joint Venture, subject to the Joint Venture's right to indemnification.
See "--Indemnification."

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Each of Thomas and Genlyte have made representations and warranties
concerning the Contributed Business and the assets being transferred. The
representations and warranties include matters relating to due authorization
of the Transaction, financial statements, absence of undisclosed liabilities,
taxes, litigation, compliance with laws, title to assets, material contracts,
intellectual property, real property, environmental conditions, employee and
labor matters, employee benefits, receivables and Year 2000 compliance.

WORKING CAPITAL ADJUSTMENT

To the extent the actual net working capital of Thomas' Contributed Business
on the Closing Date exceeds the target net working capital, the Joint Venture
will pay Thomas the difference in either (i) a short-term interest bearing
note or (ii) allow Thomas to retain an undivided interest in accounts
receivable of Thomas' Contributed Business. In the event that the net working
capital of Thomas' Contributed Business is less than the target net working
capital, Thomas will pay the difference in cash to the Joint Venture. The
target net working capital is determined by a formula which takes into
consideration Genlyte's adjusted net working capital, Thomas' Contributed
Business net working capital and Genlyte's net working capital as a percentage
of net sales as of the Closing Date. As of March 31, 1998, the Joint Venture
would have issued Thomas a short-term note in the principal amount of
approximately $23.9 million, as the working capital adjustment or, at Thomas'
option, an undivided interest in the accounts receivable of Thomas'
Contributed Business in an amount equal to the working capital adjustment (the
"Working Capital Adjustment").

EMPLOYEES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Thomas and Genlyte will use all commercial efforts to cause the employees
employed by each of them in their respective Contributed Businesses to make
available their employment services to the Joint Venture. For a period of two
years from the Closing Date, neither Thomas nor Genlyte will solicit, offer to
employ, hire or retain the services of or otherwise interfere with the
relationship of the Joint Venture with any person employed by or otherwise
engaged to perform services for the Joint Venture in connection with the
operation of the Contributed Businesses.

Effective as of the Closing Date, the Joint Venture will offer employment to
all employees who are actively employed by each of Thomas and Genlyte
principally in the operation of their Contributed Businesses. The Joint
Venture will provide any employee who accepts such offer of employment and who
is terminated by the Joint Venture within 180 days after the Closing Date with
severance pay equal to the severance pay that such

38
<PAGE>

employee would have received under the severance plans of Thomas or Genlyte,
as the case may be, if such person's employment with Thomas or Genlyte were
terminated as of the Closing Date.

Thomas. For former salaried and clerical Thomas employees of Thomas'
Contributed Business, the Joint Venture will continue to participate in
Thomas' two applicable tax-qualified retirement plans for a six to eighteen
month transition period (primarily because these plans also cover employees
other than those of Thomas' Contributed Business). After the transition
period, those former salaried and clerical employees will participate in
retirement plans of the Joint Venture and their account balances under those
two Thomas plans will be transferred to the appropriate plan or plans of the
Joint Venture. In addition, such employees will be entitled to benefits
accrued through the Closing Date of the Transaction under the Thomas pension
floor plan (without the change in employers from Thomas to the Joint Venture
triggering distributions under the plan). With respect to hourly employees of
Thomas' Contributed Business, the Joint Venture will assume directly the
retirement plans covering those employees (because they cover only employees
of Thomas' Contributed Business). In addition, all former Thomas employees
will, at the Joint Venture's cost, participate in Thomas' applicable health,
life and disability plans for up to a six month transition period. The Joint
Venture generally will assume all other benefit liabilities relating to
employees of Thomas' Contributed Business, including post-retirement health
benefits (capped at $500,000 annually), and any withdrawal liability under
union-sponsored multiemployer plans that is incurred by Thomas as the result
of the transactions creating the Joint Venture.

Genlyte. The Joint Venture generally will assume directly all of Genlyte's
benefit plans and other benefit liabilities relating to Genlyte employees.

INDEMNIFICATION

Each of Thomas and Genlyte agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the
Joint Venture, its officers, directors, employees, agents, advisers,
representatives and affiliates (collectively, the "Joint Venture Indemnitees")
from and against any and all claims, liabilities, obligations, losses, costs
or damages (collectively, "Losses") incurred in the investigation or defense
or arising out of: (i) any inaccuracy of any representation or warranty made
by Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, in the Capitalization Agreements or
any Transaction Document; (ii) any failure of Thomas or Genlyte, as the case
may be, to perform any covenant or agreement under the Capitalization
Agreements or under any Transaction Document or to fulfill any other
obligation in respect thereof; (iii) any Excluded Liabilities or Excluded
Assets; (iv) any and all taxes of either Thomas or Genlyte; and (v) any and
all employee benefit liabilities not assumed by the Joint Venture.

Neither Thomas nor Genlyte shall be required to indemnify the Joint Venture
Indemnitees with respect to any claim for indemnification unless and until the
aggregate amount of all Losses (i) arising from inaccuracies in the
representations and warranties regarding environmental matters exceeds
$500,000 and then only for the amount of such excess or (ii) arising under all
other indemnification provisions exceeds $1,000,000 and then only for the
amount of such excess. Indemnification obligations arising from breaches of
representations and warranties regarding due authorization, corporate
existence, taxes and title to assets are not subject to the limitations set
forth above.

The Joint Venture agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless each of
Thomas and Genlyte and its officers, directors, employees, agents, advisers,
representatives and affiliates (collectively, the "Transferor Indemnitees")
from and against any and all Losses resulting from or arising out of: (i) any
inaccuracy of any representation or warranty made by the Joint Venture in any
Transaction Documents; (ii) any failure of the Joint Venture to perform any
covenant or agreement under the Capitalization Agreements or under any
Transaction Document or to fulfill any other obligation in respect thereof;
(iii) the Assumed Liabilities except to the extent that they constitute Losses
for which Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, is required to indemnify the
Joint Venture Indemnitees; (iv) the use by the Joint Venture of any trade
names or trademarks of Thomas or Genlyte after the Closing Date as
contemplated by the Capitalization Agreements; and (v) the operation of the
business by the Joint Venture or the Joint Venture's ownership, operation or
use of the Joint Venture's assets following the Closing Date, except to the
extent such Losses result from or arise out of Excluded Liabilities, Excluded
Assets or constitute Losses for which Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be,
is required to indemnify the Joint Venture Indemnitees under the
Capitalization Agreements.

In general, the representations and warranties survive until 60 days after
the delivery of the audited financial statements of the Joint Venture for
fiscal year 1999 except for environmental matters which survive for three
years from the Closing Date and tax matters which survive until the expiration
of the applicable statute of limitations. Representations and warranties
regarding due authorization, corporate existence, taxes and title to assets
survive indefinitely.

39
<PAGE>

Any payment made by Thomas or Genlyte pursuant to the indemnification
provisions in respect of any Losses will be net of any reserve maintained by
Thomas or Genlyte for such Loss or category of Losses. Any payment made by
Thomas or Genlyte to the Joint Venture Indemnitees, on the one hand, or by the
Joint Venture to the Transferor Indemnitees, on the other hand, pursuant to
the indemnification provisions in respect of any Losses (i) will be net of any
insurance proceeds realized by and paid to the indemnified party in respect of
such Losses and (ii) will be (A) reduced by the amount of any tax benefits
attributable to such Losses and (B) increased by any tax liabilities, realized
or paid, as the case may be, by the indemnified party as a result of paying or
receiving any indemnification payment.

Any payment required to be made by Thomas or Genlyte to the Joint Venture
pursuant to the indemnification provisions will be deducted from the next
distribution made to Thomas or Genlyte pursuant the LLC Agreement, unless the
Loss payable by Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, exceeds the amount of
such distribution, in which case Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, will
deliver to the Joint Venture a note in the amount of such excess, which will
bear interest at the rate of the Joint Venture's primary credit facility and
will be payable out of future distributions (other than tax distributions)
pursuant to the LLC Agreement.

THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT

GENERAL

Thomas and Genlyte are the only members (the "Members") of the Joint Venture
which was formed on April 24, 1998 as a limited liability company under the
Delaware Limited Liability Company Act (the "Act"). The Joint Venture will
continue in existence until dissolved in accordance with the LLC Agreement.
The LLC Agreement becomes effective upon the closing of the Transaction. For
purposes of this summary, Thomas and Genlyte are referred to as Members.

MEMBERS

As of the effective date of the LLC Agreement, which will be the Closing
Date (the "Effective Date"), the only Members will be Thomas and Genlyte.
Additional Members of the Joint Venture may only be added if the addition of
any such proposed additional Member is made pursuant to the provisions in the
LLC Agreement, or is approved in writing, prior to such admission, by all of
the then existing Members, and, in either case, such proposed additional
Member satisfies the requirements set forth in the LLC Agreement.

CAPITALIZATION OF THE JOINT VENTURE

On the Effective Date, Thomas will, pursuant to its Capitalization
Agreement, contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of the assets
constituting its lighting business subject to the Assumed Liabilities and
Genlyte will, pursuant to its Capitalization Agreement, contribute to the
Joint Venture substantially all of the assets of Genlyte subject to the
Assumed Liabilities. In exchange for their capital contributions, Thomas will
receive a 32% interest in the Joint Venture and Genlyte will receive a 68%
interest in the Joint Venture. Each of Thomas' and Genlyte's interest in the
Joint Venture is referred to as a "Percentage Interest."

Except as expressly provided in the LLC Agreement: (i) no Member will be
permitted to withdraw or reduce such Member's capital contribution or any
amount from its capital account or to receive any distributions from the Joint
Venture; (ii) no Member will be entitled to demand or receive property other
than cash in return for such Member's capital contribution; and (iii) no
Member will be entitled to receive or be credited with any interest on the
balance of such Member's capital contribution or capital account at any time.

If additional capital is required by the Joint Venture and all of the
Members agree that additional capital can be contributed by the Members, each
Member will have the right, but not the obligation, to advance as an
additional capital contribution its proportionate share, based on the
Percentage Interest of such Member as of the date of contribution, of the
total amount of capital required. If a Member does not contribute to the Joint
Venture the full amount of its share of the additional capital contribution
that the Member is entitled to contribute (the "Deficiency"), the other
Members shall have the right, but not the obligation, to advance, as an
additional capital contribution, their proportionate share, based on the
contributing Members' Percentage Interests, of the Deficiency. The making of
any additional capital contribution by a Member will not change the Member's
Percentage Interest.

40
<PAGE>

PROFIT AND LOSS ALLOCATIONS

Profits or losses of the Joint Venture will be allocated to the Members in
accordance with their Percentage Interests.

DISTRIBUTIONS

Subject to the provisions in the LLC Agreement regarding mandatory
distributions described below and the requirement of Special Approval in
certain instances (see "Management" below), distributions will be made at such
time and in such amounts as determined by the Management Board and shall be
made among the Members in cash or other property in proportion to their
respective Percentage Interests. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary
provided in the LLC Agreement, no distribution under the LLC Agreement shall
be permitted to the extent prohibited by the Act.

The LLC Agreement requires that the Joint Venture make the following
distributions ("Mandatory Distributions") to its Members:

(i) a distribution to each Member, based on their Percentage Interests,
for tax liabilities attributable to its participation as a Member of the
Joint Venture based upon the effective tax rate of the Member having the
highest tax rate; and

(ii) subject to the provisions of the Act and the terms of the primary
credit facility of the Joint Venture, distributions (exclusive of the tax
distributions set forth above) to each of its Members so that Thomas
receives at least an aggregate of $3,000,000 and Genlyte receives at least
an aggregate of $6,375,000 per fiscal year from the Joint Venture beginning
in fiscal year 1999.

MANAGEMENT

The LLC Agreement establishes a Management Board to manage and control the
business and affairs of the Joint Venture. The Management Board consists of
six (6) Representatives, two (2) of whom are appointed by Thomas and four (4)
of whom are appointed by Genlyte. Each Representative will have one vote in
Management Board decisions. In the event of the removal, resignation or death
of a Representative, the vacancy will be filled by the Member who appointed
the departing Representative. Each Representative will serve on the Management
Board at the pleasure of the Member appointing him or her, and may be removed
and replaced with a substitute at any time, with or without cause, by such
Member. Each Representative will be an officer, director or high-ranking
management employee of the appointing Member.

Larry K. Powers, President and Chief Executive Officer of Genlyte, will be
President and Chief Executive Officer of the Joint Venture. Timothy C. Brown,
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomas, will be Chairman of
the Management Board of the Joint Venture.

Except as otherwise expressly provided in the LLC Agreement and except for
situations in which the approval of the Members is expressly required by
provisions of the Act and cannot otherwise be delegated to the Management
Board, the Management Board is empowered to manage and conduct the business
and affairs of the Joint Venture and will have the exclusive authority
(without the need of separate approval of the Members) to make all decisions
regarding the management and affairs of the Joint Venture and to authorize all
things necessary, proper, or desirable to carry out the business of the Joint
Venture, including the right to make and enter into any contracts, enter into
any transactions, and make and obtain any commitments on behalf of the Joint
Venture to conduct or further the business of the Joint Venture.

The initial Representatives shall be Timothy C. Brown and Lawrence F. Gloyd
(appointed by Thomas) and Larry K. Powers, Avrum Drazin, Fred Heller and David
Engelman (appointed by Genlyte). Each of the initial Representatives currently
serves as a director of Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be.

Actions of the Management Board require the approval of a majority of the
Representatives, except that the following actions require the approval
("Special Approval") of at least a majority of the Representatives, including,
in all instances, approval by at least one Representative appointed by Thomas:

(i) removal of Larry K. Powers as President or Chief Executive Officer of
the Joint Venture or selection of a President or Chief Executive Officer of
the Joint Venture other than Larry K. Powers;

41
<PAGE>

(ii) removal of Timothy C. Brown as Chairman of the Management Board of
the Joint Venture;

(iii) a material change in the nature of the business of the Joint
Venture;

(iv) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or
Offer Right provisions discussed below, the acquisition of assets or of
equity interests by the Joint Venture and its subsidiaries individually or,
in the case of a series of related transactions, in the aggregate, in
excess of $25,000,000;

(v) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or
Offer Right provisions discussed below, the sale, exchange, assignment,
transfer, lease or other disposition of assets of the Joint Venture in
excess of $25,000,000;

(vi) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or
Offer Right provisions discussed below, the sale, pledge, lease,
encumbrance or granting of a security interest in all or substantially all
of the Joint Venture's assets unless pursuant to the incurrence of
indebtedness for money borrowed for which Special Approval is not required
under the LLC Agreement;

(vii) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or
Offer Right provisions discussed below, a consolidation or merger of the
Joint Venture;

(viii) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock
or Offer Right provisions discussed below, incurrence of indebtedness for
money borrowed (net of cash and cash equivalents) by the Joint Venture and
its subsidiaries in excess of three times EBITDA for the four (4) calendar
quarters immediately preceding the quarter in which the indebtedness is to
be incurred;

(ix) any amendment to (i) the LLC Agreement or (ii) the Joint Venture's
certificate of formation (unless a Member is required by the Act to file
such amendment to correct any false statement in the certificate of
formation or the LLC Agreement or in connection with any action permitted
to be taken under the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or Offer Right
provisions discussed below);

(x) any voluntary liquidation, dissolution or termination of the Joint
Venture pursuant to the LLC Agreement;

(xi) any split, combination, reclassification or, except as otherwise
contemplated by the LLC Agreement, redemption of any interests;

(xii) except as provided in the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock or
Offer Right provisions discussed below, the admission or removal of any
Member and the issuance by the Joint Venture of any additional interests or
other equity interests (including any interests convertible into equity
interests) of the Joint Venture;

(xiii) distributions in amounts less than the amounts required by the
"Mandatory Distributions" provisions discussed above; and

(xiv) any transactions between the Joint Venture and Genlyte or Thomas or
their affiliates, other than pursuant to the Services Agreement (see
"Certain Related Party Transactions") and other than loans by either Member
to the Joint Venture to the extent permitted by the Joint Venture's credit
facility and other agreements, the terms of which loans are at least as
favorable to the Joint Venture as the terms of the Joint Venture's then
current primary credit facility.

Subject to the responsibility of the Management Board to manage and conduct
the business and affairs of the Joint Venture, if, and only if, the Act
expressly requires the Members to act, an act of the Members consists of a
vote of the Members holding more than an aggregate of 50% of the Percentage
Interests in the Joint Venture; provided, however, that with respect to
additional capital contributions and the Special Approval matters, a majority
of the Members, each of which shall be entitled to one vote, will be required.

To the extent required by applicable law, the Special Approval matters and
the Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock, Offer Right and the financing to
fund the exercise of the foregoing may also be subject to approval by the
shareholders of Thomas and Genlyte. For example, if a sale of substantially
all of the assets of the Joint Venture or a merger in which Thomas and Genlyte
do not control the surviving entity was contemplated and the Percentage
Interest held by Genlyte or Thomas, as the case may be, constituted all or
substantially all of the assets of Genlyte or Thomas, the approval of a
majority of the outstanding shares of Genlyte or Thomas Common Stock would be
required and Genlyte or Thomas would seek shareholder approval. See "The
Proposed Joint Venture--Certain Consequences of the Transaction."

42
<PAGE>

TRANSFERS, WITHDRAWALS AND DEADLOCK

General Restrictions on Transfers and Withdrawals. Except as expressly set
forth in the LLC Agreement, no Member may transfer all or any part of such
Member's interest without the written approval of each Non-Transferring Member
(as hereinafter defined). Additionally, no Member may resign or withdraw from
the Joint Venture except as provided in the LLC Agreement, without the
approval of the Non-Transferring Member.

No transferee of all or part of a Member's interest ("Transferee") will
become a substitute Member unless and until: (i) such Transferee has executed
an instrument accepting and adopting the terms and provisions of the
certificate of formation of the Joint Venture, the LLC Agreement and any other
documents or agreements executed in connection therewith; and (ii) except in
respect of a transfer from a Member to a related party of such Member, each
Non-Transferring Member shall have consented in writing to such Transferee
becoming a substitute Member, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld
if the conditions set forth in the preceding clause (i) are satisfied.

Put Right. At any time on or after January 31, 2002, Thomas will have the
right (a "Put Right"), but not the obligation, to require the Joint Venture to
purchase all, but not less than all, of Thomas' interest at the applicable Put
Price (as defined below). Thomas will be required to exercise the Put Right,
if at all, by giving written notice of exercise (a "Put Exercise Notice") to
the Joint Venture and the other Members. The purchase price (the "Put Price")
applicable to any purchase of any Member's interest shall be equal to the
Appraised Value of such interest as summarized below (see "Appraised Value").

If the Joint Venture cannot secure the necessary financing or consents with
respect to Thomas' exercise of its rights pursuant to its Put Right, Thomas
will have the right, in its sole discretion and without the need of approval
of any other Member or Representative or of any further action, to cause the
entire Joint Venture or the business of the Joint Venture (the "Business") to
be sold by giving notice to the Management Board and the Management Board
shall proceed to sell the entire Joint Venture or Business as soon as
reasonably practicable; provided, however, that a fairness opinion as to such
transaction from a recognized investment banking firm is delivered to the
Management Board.

At any time after receipt of the Put Exercise Notice, Genlyte will have the
right, in its sole discretion and without the need of approval of any other
Member or Representative or of any further action, to cause the entire Joint
Venture or Business to be sold by giving notice to the Management Board and
the Management Board shall proceed to sell the entire Joint Venture or
Business as soon as reasonably practicable; provided, however, that a fairness
opinion as to such transaction from a recognized investment banking firm is
delivered to the Management Board.

Change of Control. In the event of a Change of Control (i) of Thomas, the
Joint Venture has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase Thomas'
interest at the Appraised Value or (ii) of Genlyte, Thomas has the right, but
not the obligation, to sell its interest to the Joint Venture at the Appraised
Value. Such right shall be exercised by giving notice within 90 days of the
effective date of the Change of Control. If the Joint Venture cannot secure
the necessary financing or consents or chooses not to exercise its rights
pursuant to item (i), Genlyte has the right, in its sole discretion and
without the need of approval of any other Member or Representative or of any
further action, to cause the entire Joint Venture or Business to be sold by
giving notice to the Management Board and the Management Board shall proceed
to sell the entire Joint Venture or Business as soon as reasonably
practicable; provided, however, that a fairness opinion as to such transaction
from a recognized investment banking firm is delivered to the Management
Board.

If the Joint Venture cannot secure the necessary financing pursuant to item
(ii), Thomas has the right, in its sole discretion and without the need of
approval of any other Member or Representative or of any further action, to
cause the entire Joint Venture or Business to be sold by giving notice to the
Management Board and the Management Board shall proceed to sell the entire
Joint Venture or Business as soon as reasonably practicable; provided,
however, that a fairness opinion as to such transaction from a recognized
investment banking firm is delivered to the Management Board.

Deadlock. In the event of a Deadlock (as defined below), Thomas may exercise
its Put Right in accordance with the LLC Agreement or Genlyte may, in its sole
discretion and without the need of approval of any other Member or
Representative or of any further action, cause the entire Joint Venture or
Business to be sold;

43
<PAGE>

provided, however, that a fairness opinion as to such transaction from a
recognized investment banking firm is delivered to the Management Board. A
"Deadlock" shall be deemed to exist if on or after January 31, 2002: (i) the
Management Board fails to agree on a matter for which Special Approval is
required in accordance with the LLC Agreement and (ii) such disagreement
continues for 90 days (the "Deadlock Date"); provided, however, that during
the 90-day period negotiations between senior executives are conducted to
resolve such disagreement. As a result, a Deadlock could occur after January
31, 2002 if at least one of the Representatives appointed by Thomas does not
approve a Special Approval matter and Genlyte could cause the entire Joint
Venture or Business to be sold.

Offer Right. On or after the later to occur of (i) the final settlement or
disposition of the Litigation or (ii) January 31, 2002, either Member will
have the right but not the obligation, to offer to buy the other Member's
interest (an "Offer Right"). A Member may exercise its Offer Right, if at all,
by giving written notice of exercise (an "Offer Exercise Notice") to the Joint
Venture and the other Members. Following receipt of an Offer Exercise Notice,
the Members are required to negotiate in good faith the terms of the
transaction for a period of 60 days following the date of the Offer Exercise
Notice. If the Members cannot agree on the terms within the 60 day period or
on extending the 60 day period, then the Management Board will cause the
entire Joint Venture or Business to be sold to the highest bidder; provided,
however, that a fairness opinion as to such transaction from a recognized
investment banking firm is delivered to the Management Board. Either Member
will be permitted to participate in the bidding for the purchase of the entire
Joint Venture or Business pursuant to this provision.

Closing. The closing of any purchase of a Member's interest or the sale of
the Joint Venture or the Business, as the case may be, pursuant to the LLC
Agreement, will take place on a date agreed upon by the Joint Venture or the
Non-Transferring Member, as the case may be, and the Transferring Member, but
in no event later than seven (7) months after the date of the Put Exercise
Notice, the date of a Change of Control (the "Change of Control Date"), the
Deadlock Date or the date of the Offer Exercise Notice (together with the 60
day negotiation period plus any extension thereof as described above), as the
case may be (the "Transfer Closing Date"); provided, however, that Genlyte
will have the one-time right to delay the closing for up to six (6) months
from the anticipated Transfer Closing Date. In addition, Thomas shall have the
one-time right to delay the closing with respect to the exercise of an Offer
Right for up to six (6) months from the Transfer Closing Date.

Appraised Value. "Appraised Value" means an amount equal to the "Fair Market
Value" of the Joint Venture multiplied by the Percentage Interest, or portion
thereof, that is being put or transferred, as the case may be. For purposes of
determining Appraised Value, "Fair Market Value" of the Joint Venture means
the value of the total interests in the Joint Venture computed as a going
concern, including the control premium. The amount of the Fair Market Value of
the Joint Venture finally determined in the manner described below will be
binding and conclusive on all Members and the Joint Venture.

The Member Transferring its interest (the "Transferring Member") and the
Member(s) not Transferring its (or their) interest (collectively, the "Non-
Transferring Member") will each designate an appraiser (which shall be a
recognized investment banking firm) for the purpose of determining the Fair
Market Value of the Joint Venture in accordance with the methodology set forth
in the preceding paragraph within ten (10) business days of the date of the
Put Exercise Notice, the Change of Control Date or the Deadlock Date, as the
case may be. Each such appraiser (an "Initial Appraiser") will, as of the date
of the Put Exercise Notice, the Change of Control Date or the Deadlock Date,
as the case may be, set forth its preliminary determination of the Fair Market
Value of the Joint Venture (the "Preliminary Fair Market Value") in writing
(together with reasonable detail showing the method of calculation thereof)
and will deliver a copy of such written determination (an "Appraiser's
Report") to each of the Joint Venture, the Transferring Member and the Non-
Transferring Member, not later than the 30th day following its retention.

The two Initial Appraisers, if they cannot agree on the Fair Market Value,
will mutually designate a third appraiser (the "Third Appraiser"), which will
be a recognized independent investment banking firm, to make its own
independent determination of the Preliminary Fair Market Value. The Third
Appraiser will use its best efforts to complete its determination as soon as
practicable, and in any event within thirty (30) days of its retention.

44
<PAGE>

In the event that the determination by the Third Appraiser of the
Preliminary Fair Market Value falls between the determinations by the two
Initial Appraisers, then the determination of the Third Appraiser will
constitute the Fair Market Value of the Joint Venture. In the event, however,
that the determination by the Third Appraiser is higher than the highest
determination of the two Initial Appraisers or is lower than the lowest of
such determinations, then the determination by the particular Initial
Appraiser that is closest in value to the determination by the Third Appraiser
will be deemed to constitute the Fair Market Value of the Joint Venture.

Promptly upon final determination of the Fair Market Value of the Joint
Venture, the Joint Venture will calculate the Appraised Value (of the
Transferring Member's interest) and give notice thereof to the Transferring
Member and the Non-Transferring Member. The Transferring Member will be
responsible for the costs and expenses of the Initial Appraiser selected by
it, and the Non-Transferring Member will be responsible for the costs and
expenses of the Initial Appraiser selected by the Non-Transferring Member. The
costs and expenses of the Third Appraiser, if any, will be paid by the Member
whose Initial Appraiser's Appraised Value is farthest from the Appraised Value
determined by the Third Appraiser.

Assignability and Financing. The Joint Venture's obligations under the Put
Right, Change of Control and Deadlock provisions are nonrecourse to the
Members and may be assigned by the Joint Venture to any third person approved
by the Representatives of the Non-Transferring Members, provided, that no such
assignment will be deemed to release the Joint Venture from any liability or
obligation under the LLC Agreement, and, provided, further, that the admission
of such third person as a Member is subject to the unanimous approval of all
Non-Transferring Members pursuant to the provisions regarding assignees and
substitute Members.

Genlyte will have the right, in its sole discretion and without the need of
approval of any other Member, Representative or of any further action, to
cause the Joint Venture to assign the rights to purchase Thomas' interest,
pursuant to the Put Right, Change of Control and Deadlock provisions to
Genlyte; provided, however, no such assignment will be deemed to release the
Joint Venture from any liability or obligation in connection therewith.

Notwithstanding the requirement of Special Approval relative to certain
actions taken by the Joint Venture, Genlyte will have the right, in its sole
discretion and without the need of approval of any other Member,
Representative or of any further action, to cause the Joint Venture to incur
indebtedness, to admit a new Member(s), to merge or consolidate the Joint
Venture, or to undertake an initial public offering (including taking
corporate action for the purpose of converting the Joint Venture to a
corporation), to finance or effect financing of the payment of the Appraised
Value and to satisfy any obligation or the exercise of any right of the Joint
Venture and/or Genlyte pursuant to the transfers, withdrawals and deadlock
provisions of the LLC Agreement. The incurrence of indebtedness, the admission
of a new Member(s) and the completion of an initial public offering will take
place simultaneously with the closing of any purchase of a Member's interest
or the sale of the Joint Venture or the Business, as the case may be, pursuant
to this provision to the extent practicable (without in any way limiting
Thomas' rights to be paid in accordance with this provision). In the event the
Joint Venture is converted to a corporation in contemplation of an initial
public offering pursuant to the transfers, withdrawals and deadlock provisions
of the LLC Agreement and such initial public offering is not completed, Thomas
will still be entitled to be paid in accordance with the terms of the
transfers, withdrawals and deadlock provisions of the LLC Agreement.

The Put Right, Change of Control, Deadlock and Offer Right provisions are
applicable only with respect to Thomas and Genlyte and are not exercisable by
any subsequent Transferee.

DISSOLUTION AND TERMINATION

The Joint Venture will continue in existence until it is dissolved upon the
occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the unanimous written consent
of the Members; (ii) the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or
substantially all of the assets of the Joint Venture; (iii) the termination of
the Master Transaction Agreement; (iv) without limiting Thomas' rights to be
paid under the LLC Agreement, a merger of the Joint Venture in which

45
<PAGE>

the Joint Venture is not the surviving entity or for the purpose of converting
the Joint Venture to a corporation in connection with an initial public
offering; or (v) the bankruptcy, assignment for the benefit of creditors or
the dissolution or liquidation of any Member.

Upon the dissolution of the Joint Venture as a result of the occurrence of
any of the events set forth in the LLC Agreement, the Management Board, or if
the Members so agree, a liquidating trustee, will wind up the affairs of the
Joint Venture and discharge all of its debts as follows: (i) first, to the
payment of debts and liabilities of the Joint Venture in the order of priority
as provided by law (including any loans or advances that may have been made by
any of the Members to the Joint Venture and any unpaid fees for services) and
the expenses of liquidation; (ii) second, to the establishment of any reserve
which the Management Board may deem reasonably necessary for any contingent,
conditional or unasserted claims or obligations of the Joint Venture; and
(iii) finally, the remaining balance of the liquidation proceeds, if any, to
the Members, in accordance with their respective positive capital account
balances.

A Member will not have any obligation to contribute any amount to the Joint
Venture in the event of a negative balance in its capital account. Any
distribution to a Member under dissolution or termination provisions will be
made by the end of the taxable year of the liquidation of the Joint Venture
or, if later, within 90 days of such liquidation. The distribution of cash or
property to a Member in accordance with the provisions herein will constitute
a complete return to the Member of its capital contributions and a complete
distribution to the Member of its interest and all the Joint Venture's
property.

To the extent the Joint Venture assets cannot be sold or in the event the
Members otherwise agree, such unsold assets will be distributed in kind to the
Members, in accordance with the distribution provisions of the LLC Agreement,
including any value attributed to goodwill. In determining whether the Joint
Venture assets should be sold or distributed in kind, the Members will each
act reasonably and in good faith with respect to any proposal from the other
Member.

COVENANTS NOT TO COMPETE

Thomas and Genlyte will each agree that during the Noncompete Period (as
described below), neither Thomas nor Genlyte will directly or indirectly, by
or for itself or as the agent of another, or through others as their agent:

(i) manufacture, promote, sell or distribute anywhere in the world (the
"Territory"), products or processes, which are similar to or in competition
with those of the Business;

(ii) own, manage, operate, be compensated by, participate in, have any
right to or interest in any other business directly or indirectly engaged
in the production, sale or distribution of products competitive with those
of the Business anywhere in the Territory; or

(iii) except as may be required by law, divulge, communicate, use or
disclose any confidential proprietary information concerning the Joint
Venture or the Business.

"Noncompete Period" means the period from the Effective Date until the earlier
to occur of the following: (i) the dissolution of the Joint Venture pursuant
to the LLC Agreement or (ii) the date a Member ceases to be a Member.

STOCK OPTIONS

The Management Board, on an annual basis, will recommend to Thomas and
Genlyte the aggregate amount of non-qualified stock options that the
Management Board would like Thomas and Genlyte to issue to the Joint Venture's
executive officers and employees. The Management Board will develop guidelines
for the recommendations which will take into account the value of the options
and the duties, responsibilities, compensation and salary range of the
employee. The determination of the value of the options could be based on a
number of factors and methodologies including the Black-Scholes method, the
market value of the underlying securities of either Thomas or Genlyte on the
date of grant, or other appropriate valuation methods. The

46
<PAGE>

aggregate amount of non-qualified stock options will be requested with the
intention that such amounts will be based upon the Percentage Interests or
such other arrangements as the parties may agree. In no event, however, are
Thomas or Genlyte obligated to grant the amount of non-qualified stock options
recommended by the Management Board. Each party's respective Percentage
Interest will not be affected by its refusal or agreement to grant stock
options. If either Thomas or Genlyte elects not to issue grants in a
particular year or issue a lesser amount of options than requested by the
Management Board in the aggregate, then the Management Board, with the consent
of the company granting the options in the amount requested, may issue the
options of only one company or may determine not to issue such grants or to
redistribute the option grants among any eligible employees. In such event,
the option grants may have a more dilutive effect on the company approving the
grants as compared to the company electing not to issue non-qualified stock
options.

CERTAIN RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Prior to Closing, Thomas and the Joint Venture will enter into a services
agreement whereby Thomas will provide certain services, including certain
employee benefits administration, MIS and accounting, as well as other
services, for an interim period between six to eighteen months from the
Closing Date (the "Services Agreement"). Thomas will be reimbursed by the
Joint Venture for providing such services on a cost basis. Thomas and Genlyte
believe such costs to be paid by the Joint Venture to Thomas will be
comparable to costs historically incurred by Genlyte for such services from
unaffiliated third parties.

MARKET PRICE INFORMATION

The Thomas Common Stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange
under the symbol "TII." On April 28, 1998, the day preceding the first public
announcement of the Transaction, the high and low sales prices of Thomas
Common Stock were $23.875 and $23.5625, respectively.

The Genlyte Common Stock is listed and traded on the Nasdaq National Market
under the symbol "GLYT." On April 28, 1998, the day preceding the first public
announcement of the Transaction, the high and low sales prices of Genlyte
Common Stock were $22 and $21.125, respectively.

MANAGEMENT OF THE JOINT VENTURE

Larry K. Powers will be President and Chief Executive Officer and Richard J.
Crossland will be Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the
Joint Venture.

Mr. Powers was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Genlyte in
January 1994 and has served as a Director since July 1993. He has held a
variety of sales, marketing and general management positions in the lighting
industry. From September 1979 until April 1989, Mr. Powers was President of
Hadco. Hadco was acquired by a predecessor of Genlyte in July 1983. Mr. Powers
then served as President of the HID/Outdoor Division of Genlyte from May 1989
until June 1993. From July 1993 to December 1993, he served as President of
Genlyte U.S. Operations and Executive Vice President of Genlyte. Mr. Powers is
56 years old.

Mr. Crossland has been Vice President, Lighting Group Manager of Thomas
since August 1994. Mr. Crossland spent the previous ten years with Philips
Lighting Company, Somerset, New Jersey, where he was Group Vice
President/General Manager of four divisions since 1990 and Vice President,
Operations, of seven manufacturing facilities from 1989 to 1990. Mr. Crossland
is 54 years old.

The remaining executive officers of the Joint Venture have not been
appointed as of the date of this Joint Proxy Statement. As of the date of this
Joint Proxy Statement, the Joint Venture has not entered into any agreements
with its executive officers.

47
<PAGE>

There are no family relationships among any of the executive officers of the
Joint Venture, on the one hand, and any directors or executive officers of
either Thomas or Genlyte, on the other hand.

PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS OF THOMAS AND GENLYTE

The following tables set forth information with respect to the beneficial
ownership of Thomas Common Stock and Genlyte Common Stock as of June 30, 1998
(except as otherwise indicated in the footnotes below), respectively by (i)
each owner of more than 5% of such Common Stock, (ii) each director of Thomas
and Genlyte, (iii) certain executive officers of Thomas and Genlyte consisting
of the chief executive officer and the four most highly compensated officers
other than the chief executive officer who were serving as officers at
December 31, 1997, and (iv) all executive officers and directors of Thomas and
Genlyte, as the case may be, as a group. Except as otherwise indicated below,
each of the entities and persons named in the tables has sole voting and
investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock beneficially
owned. For purposes of these tables, a person or group of persons is deemed to
have beneficial ownership of any shares as of a given date which such person
has the right to acquire within 60 days after such date. For purposes of
computing the percentage of outstanding shares held by each person or group of
persons named below on a given date, any security which such person or persons
has the right to acquire within 60 days after such date is deemed to be
outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of such
person or persons, but is not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of
computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Unless otherwise
indicated, the address for each of the individuals or entities named in the
tables below is the principal executive office of Thomas or Genlyte, as
applicable.

Under Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act, persons who have the power to vote or
dispose of Common Stock of Thomas or Genlyte, as the case may be, either alone
or jointly with others, are deemed to be beneficial owners of such Common
Stock. Because the voting or dispositive power of certain Common Stock listed
in the following table is shared, the same securities in such cases are listed
opposite more than one name in the table.

THOMAS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF SHARES AND
NATURE OF PERCENT
NAME BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF CLASS
---- -------------------- --------
<C> <S> <C> <C>
(i) Gabelli Group.................... 2,453,268(1) 15.45%
One Corporate Center
Rye, NY 10580
Neuberger & Berman, LLC.......... 1,038,225(2) 6.54
605 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10158-3698
(ii) Timothy C. Brown................. 141,923(3)(6) *
Wallace H. Dunbar................ 610,318(4)(8)(9) 3.84
H. Joseph Ferguson............... 391,638(4)(8) 2.47
Gene P. Gardner.................. 38,436(4) *
Lawrence E. Gloyd................ 19,598(4) *
William M. Jordan................ 383,775(5)(9) 2.42
Ralph D. Ketchum................. 24,420(4) *
Franklin J. Lunding, Jr.......... 390,672(4)(9) 2.46
Anthony A. Massaro............... 3,355(6) *
(iii) Richard J. Crossland............. 27,132(7) *
Clifford C. Moulton.............. 40,613(7) *
Phillip J. Stuecker.............. 79,343(7) *
Ronald D. Schneider.............. 24,784(7) *
All directors and executive
(iv) officers as a group (16 persons). 1,132,915(4)(5)(7)(10) 7.14
</TABLE>
- --------
* Less than 1%

48
<PAGE>

(1) Based on an amendment to Schedule 13D filed by certain reporting persons
(the "Gabelli Group") with the SEC in July 1997. One of the members of
the Gabelli Group, GAMCO Investors, Inc., beneficially owns 2,031,768
shares, representing 12.80% of the outstanding Common Stock. GAMCO
Investors, Inc. has sole voting power with respect to 1,968,768 of such
shares. The other reporting persons included in this group are Gabelli
Funds, Inc., Gabelli International Limited and Mario J. Gabelli.
(2) Based on an amended Schedule 13G filed by Neuberger & Berman, LLC
("Neuberger & Berman") with the SEC in February 1998. Neuberger & Berman
beneficially owns 1,038,225 shares, representing 6.54% of the outstanding
Common Stock of which Neuberger & Berman has sole voting power with
respect to 658,575 of such shares. Does not include an aggregate of
23,700 shares which are owned by principals of Neuberger & Berman.
Neuberger & Berman disclaims beneficial ownership of the 23,700 shares.
(3) Excludes shares owned separately by spouses or children in the households
of the following: Mr. Brown, 337 shares; and all executive officers and
directors as a group, 337 shares. Mr. Brown disclaims that he is the
beneficial owner of any shares of which, except for Rule 13d-3, he would
not be deemed the beneficial owner.
(4) Includes 15,000 shares which may be acquired pursuant to options
exercisable within sixty days under the Thomas Industries Inc.
Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan.
(5) Includes 9,000 shares which may be acquired pursuant to options
exercisable within sixty days under the Thomas Industries Inc.
Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan.
(6) Includes 3,000 shares which may be acquired pursuant to options
exercisable within 60 days under the Thomas Industries Inc. Nonemployee
Director Stock Option Plan.
(7) Includes shares which may be acquired pursuant to stock options
exercisable within 60 days as follows: Mr. Brown--110,250 shares; Mr.
Crossland--26,250 shares; Mr. Moulton--29,250 shares; Mr. Stuecker--
58,875 shares; Mr. Schneider--20,625 shares; and all executive officers
as a group--293,625 shares.
(8) Includes 3,048 shares owned by the Dunbar Foundation, for which Mr.
Dunbar serves as President. Mr. Dunbar disclaims beneficial ownership of
such shares.
(9) Includes 371,388 shares held by the Thomas Industries Master Trust, as
amended, of which Messrs. Ferguson, Jordan, Lunding and Dunbar comprise
the Investment Committee. The Investment Committee has the power to vote
and direct disposition of such shares, except for certain restrictions
placed upon the Investment Committee by the Trustee in the event of a
tender offer for the shares of Thomas. Messrs. Ferguson, Jordan, Lunding
and Dunbar disclaim beneficial ownership of such shares.
(10) The total number of shares of Common Stock of Thomas reported for
executive officers, directors and nominees as a group is shown after
eliminating duplication within the table.

49
<PAGE>

GENLYTE

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF SHARES AND
NATURE OF PERCENT
NAME BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF CLASS
---- -------------------- --------
<C> <S> <C> <C>
(i) FMR Corp................................. 1,533,900(1) 11.4%
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Marvin C. Schwartz....................... 1,200,890(2) 8.9
c/o Neuberger & Berman LLC
605 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10158-3698
Neuberger & Berman LLC................... 835,140(3) 6.2
605 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10158-3698
(ii) Glenn W. Bailey.......................... 1,430,000(4) 10.6
14 Bassett Creek Trail N., Hobe Sound, FL
33455
Robert B. Cadwallader.................... 5,300(5) *
Avrum I. Drazin.......................... 196,399(6) 1.5
David M. Engelman........................ 16,500(7) *
Fred Heller.............................. 114,000(8) *
Frank Metzger............................ 140,750(9) 1.0
Larry K. Powers.......................... 127,153(10) *
(iii) Neil M. Bardach.......................... 9,195(11) *
Zia Eftekhar............................. 67,373(12) *
Charles M. Havers........................ 23,644(13) *
(iv) All directors and executive officers as a
group (11 persons)....................... 2,177,114(14) 16.1
</TABLE>
- --------
* Less than 1%.
(1) According to the Schedule 13G furnished to Genlyte by FMR Corp., FMR
Corp. is a holding company and has sole power to vote and to dispose of
such shares through its control of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Fidelity
Management Research Company, the beneficial owner of such shares. The
Schedule 13G also reports that Edward C. Johnson 3rd, Chairman of FMR
Corp., and FMR Corp. each has sole power to dispose of the balance of the
1,533,900 shares reported through FMR's acting as investment advisor to
certain other funds, including Fidelity Capital Builder Fund, the owner
of 925,000 of such shares. The power to vote the shares held by such
funds resides with the funds' Boards of Trustees.
(2) According to Schedule 13D furnished to Genlyte by Marvin C. Schwartz, he
held sole power to vote and to dispose of 337,400 of such shares through
his personal account in which he holds 252,400 of such shares and through
his management of an individual account for the benefit of a partner of
Neuberger & Berman with respect to 85,000 of such shares. The Schedule
13D also reports 238,990 shares owned by the Neuberger & Berman Profit
Sharing Trust (the "Plan") of which Marvin C. Schwartz is co-trustee. The
power to vote and dispose of the shares held by such funds is shared with
the Plan's trustees. In addition, 624,500 shares are held in several
accounts for the benefit of Mr. Schwartz's family. Mr. Schwartz is the
beneficial owner of such shares based on his discretionary and shared
dispositive power over such accounts.
(3) According to the Schedule 13G furnished to Genlyte by Neuberger & Berman,
Neuberger & Berman has sole power to vote and to dispose of 675,540 of
such shares and shared power to dispose of 835,140 shares. Neuberger &
Berman disclaims beneficial ownership of 400,100 shares owned by
principals of Neuberger & Berman, including those reported by Marvin C.
Schwartz.
(4) Includes 210,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by Mr. Bailey's
spouse as to which Mr. Bailey disclaims beneficial ownership and 5,000
shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon the exercise of
options which are presently exercisable.

50
<PAGE>

(5) Includes 5,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon
the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.
(6) Includes 1,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by Mr. Drazin's
spouse as to which Mr. Drazin disclaims beneficial ownership and 7,500
shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon the exercise of
options which are presently exercisable.
(7) Includes 7,500 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by Mr. Engelman's
spouse as to which Mr. Engelman disclaims beneficial ownership.
(8) Includes 60,266 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by Mr. Heller's
spouse as to which Mr. Heller disclaims beneficial ownership.
(9) Includes 28,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by Dr. Metzger's
spouse as to which Dr. Metzger disclaims beneficial ownership.
(10) Includes 35,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon
the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.
(11) Includes 7,500 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon
the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.
(12) Includes 3,750 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon
the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.
(13) Includes 14,250 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired upon
the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.
(14) Includes an aggregate of 312,766 shares of Genlyte Common Stock owned by
the spouses of certain of Genlyte's executive officers and directors as
to which each such executive officer or director disclaims beneficial
ownership and 89,000 shares of Genlyte Common Stock which may be acquired
upon the exercise of options which are presently exercisable.

FUTURE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS

Thomas. A shareholder proposal to be presented at the 1999 Annual Meeting
must be received at Thomas' executive offices, 4360 Brownsboro Road, Suite
300, Louisville, Kentucky 40207 by no later than November 18, 1998, for
evaluation as to inclusion in the Proxy Statement in connection with the 1999
Annual Meeting.

Shareholders wishing to bring a proposal before the 1999 Annual Meeting (but
not include the proposal in Thomas' Proxy Statement), must cause written
notice of the proposal to be received by the Secretary of Thomas at Thomas'
executive office, 4360 Brownsboro Road, Suite 300, Louisville, Kentucky 40207
by no later than February 1, 1999.

Genlyte. Any proposal which a shareholder of Genlyte desires to have
included in the proxy statement relating to the 1999 Annual Meeting of
Shareholders must be received by Genlyte at its executive offices by no later
than November 19, 1998. The executive offices of Genlyte are located at 2345
Vauxhall Road, P.O. Box 3148, Union, New Jersey 07083-1948.

Shareholders wishing to bring a proposal before the 1999 Annual Meeting (but
not include the proposal in Genlyte's Proxy Statement), must cause written
notice of the proposal to be received by the Secretary of Genlyte at Genlyte's
executive office, 2345 Vauxhall Road, P.O. Box 3148, Union, New Jersey 07083-
1948 by no later than February 2, 1999.

EXPERTS

The consolidated financial statements of Genlyte as of December 31, 1997 and
1996, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997,
incorporated by reference in this Joint Proxy Statement by reference to
Genlyte's Annual Report on Form 10-K, have been audited by Arthur Andersen
LLP, independent public accountants, as stated in their reports with respect
thereto. Such financial statements have been incorporated herein by reference
in reliance on the reports of Arthur Andersen LLP given the authority of such
firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

The consolidated financial statements of Thomas and its subsidiaries at
December 31, 1997 and 1996, and for each of the two years in the period ended
December 31, 1997, incorporated by reference in this Joint Proxy Statement and
the combined financial statements of Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group
("Thomas

51
<PAGE>

Lighting") at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and for each of the two years in the
period ended December 31, 1997, appearing in this Joint Proxy Statement, have
been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set forth in their
reports thereon incorporated by reference or appearing elsewhere herein, and
are included in reliance upon such reports given upon the authority of such
firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

The consolidated statements of income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows
of Thomas and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 1995 have been
incorporated by reference in this Joint Proxy Statement and the combined
statements of operations, equity, and cash flows of Thomas Lighting for the
year ended December 31, 1995 have been included in this Joint Proxy Statement,
in reliance upon the reports of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent certified
public accountants, incorporated by reference or appearing elsewhere herein,
and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION AND INCORPORATION OF
CERTAIN INFORMATION BY REFERENCE

Thomas and Genlyte file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any
reports, statements or other information either company has filed at the SEC's
public reference rooms in Washington, District of Columbia, New York, New York
and Chicago, Illinois. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further
information on the public reference rooms. Genlyte's and Thomas' SEC filings
are also available to the public from commercial document retrieval services
and at the web site maintained by the SEC at "http://www.sec.gov."

The SEC allows Genlyte and Thomas to "incorporate by reference" information
into this Joint Proxy Statement, which means that they can disclose important
information to you by referring you to another document filed separately with
the SEC. The information incorporated by reference is deemed to be part of
this Joint Proxy Statement, except for any information superseded by
information in this Joint Proxy Statement. This Joint Proxy Statement
incorporates by reference the documents set forth below that have previously
been filed with the SEC. These documents contain important information about
Genlyte and Thomas and their finances. The complete text of the Master
Transaction Agreement, the LLC Agreement and the Capitalization Agreements
were filed on July 24, 1998, as exhibits to Thomas' and Genlyte's respective
Current Reports on Form 8-K.

Thomas incorporates herein by reference the following documents filed by it
with the SEC (File No. 1-5426) pursuant to the Exchange Act: (i) its Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, as amended by Form
10-K/A; (ii) its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
1998; and (iii) its Current Reports on Form 8-K dated April 29, 1998, July 23,
1998 and July 24, 1998.

Genlyte incorporates herein by reference the following documents filed by it
with the SEC (File No. 0-16960) pursuant to the Exchange Act (i) its Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997; (ii) its Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 4, 1998, as amended; and (iii)
its Current Reports on Form 8-K dated April 29, 1998 and July 24, 1998.

All documents filed by Thomas and Genlyte pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c),
14, or 15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the date of this Joint Proxy
Statement and prior to the date of the Thomas Meeting or the Genlyte Meeting,
as the case may be, shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference in this
Joint Proxy Statement and to be part hereof from the date of filing of such
documents. Please refer to the information and financial statements (including
notes thereto) appearing in the documents incorporated by reference herein for
more detailed information.

If we incorporate a document by reference into this Joint Proxy Statement
and subsequently modify that document, the modified document, as filed with
the SEC, shall be deemed to supersede the earlier document and shall
constitute a part of this Joint Proxy Statement.

52
<PAGE>

This Joint Proxy Statement incorporates documents by reference that are not
presented herein or delivered herewith. THOMAS AND GENLYTE HEREBY UNDERTAKE TO
PROVIDE, BY FIRST CLASS MAIL OR OTHER EQUALLY PROMPT MEANS WITHIN ONE BUSINESS
DAY OF RECEIPT OF A REQUEST, WITHOUT CHARGE TO EACH PERSON, INCLUDING ANY
BENEFICIAL OWNER, TO WHOM A COPY OF THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT HAS BEEN
DELIVERED, ON WRITTEN OR ORAL REQUEST OF ANY SUCH PERSON, A COPY OF ANY AND
ALL OF THE DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO ABOVE THAT HAVE BEEN OR MAY BE INCORPORATED
INTO THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT BY REFERENCE, OTHER THAN EXHIBITS TO SUCH
DOCUMENTS (UNLESS SUCH EXHIBITS ARE SPECIFICALLY INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
INTO SUCH DOCUMENTS), INCLUDING THE MASTER TRANSACTION AGREEMENT, THE GENLYTE
CAPITALIZATION AGREEMENT, THE THOMAS CAPITALIZATION AGREEMENT AND THE LLC
AGREEMENT.

Shareholders may obtain documents incorporated by reference in this Joint
Proxy Statement, including all of the Transaction Documents, by requesting
them in writing or by telephone from the appropriate party at the following
addresses:

Thomas Industries Inc. The Genlyte Group Incorporated
4360 Brownsboro Road 2345 Vauxhall Road
Suite 300 P.O. Box 3148
Louisville, Kentucky 40207 Union, New Jersey 07083-1948
Attention: Phillip J. Stuecker Attention: Donna R. Ratliff
Vice President of Finance, Chief Vice President--Administration and
Financial Corporate Secretary
Officer and Secretary
Phone Number: (502) 893-4600 Phone Number: (908) 810-4530

YOU SHOULD RELY ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN
THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT TO VOTE ON THE TRANSACTION. WE HAVE NOT AUTHORIZED
ANYONE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION THAT IS DIFFERENT FROM WHAT IS
CONTAINED IN THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT. THIS JOINT PROXY STATEMENT IS DATED
JULY 23, 1998.

OTHER MATTERS

As of the date of this Joint Proxy Statement, neither the Board of Directors
of Thomas nor the Board of Directors of Genlyte intends to present, nor has
either Board been informed that any other person intends to present, any
matter for action at the Thomas Meeting or the Genlyte Meeting, as the case
may be, other than as specifically discussed herein.

By Order of the Thomas Board of Directors By Order of the Genlyte Board of
Directors

/s/ Phillip J. Stuecker
Phillip J. Stuecker /s/ Donna R. Ratliff
Vice President of Finance, Donna R. Ratliff
Chief Financial Officer and Secretary Vice President--Administration and
Corporate Secretary

Dated July 23, 1998

53
<PAGE>

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Audited Combined Financial Statements of Thomas Lighting
Report of Independent Auditors.......................................... F-2
Independent Auditors' Report............................................ F-3
Combined Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996, and 1995......................................................... F-4
Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997, and 1996............... F-5
Combined Statements of Equity for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996, and 1995......................................................... F-6
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996, and 1995......................................................... F-7
Notes to Combined Financial Statements.................................. F-8
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995.... F-18
Unaudited Condensed Interim Combined Financial Statements of Thomas
Lighting
Combined Statements of Operations for the quarters ended March 31, 1998,
and 1997............................................................... F-20
Combined Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997...... F-21
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the quarters ended March 31, 1998,
and 1997............................................................... F-22
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Interim Combined Financial Statements...... F-23
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations for the quarters ended March 31, 1998 and 1997........... F-24
Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements
Introduction............................................................ F-25
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the quarter ended April
4, 1998................................................................ F-26
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December
31, 1997............................................................... F-27
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income.......... F-28
Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet as of April 4, 1998................ F-30
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet................. F-31
Unaudited Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements
Introduction............................................................ F-33
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the quarter ended March
31, 1998............................................................... F-34
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December
31, 1997............................................................... F-35
Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 1998............... F-36
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income and
Balance Sheet.......................................................... F-37
Unaudited Genlyte Thomas Group LLC Pro Forma Consolidated Financial
Statements
Introduction............................................................ F-39
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the quarter ended April
4, 1998................................................................ F-40
Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended December
31, 1997............................................................... F-41
Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet as of April 4, 1998................ F-42
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements.......... F-43
</TABLE>

F-1
<PAGE>

[Ernst & Young LLP Letterhead]

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

Management
Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group

We have audited the combined balance sheets of the Thomas Industries Inc.
Lighting Group (Thomas Lighting) as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the
related combined statements of operations, equity, and cash flows for the
years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of Thomas
Lighting's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.

In our opinion, the 1997 and 1996 financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the combined financial position of
Thomas Lighting at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the combined results of its
operations and its cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Louisville, Kentucky
May 8, 1998

F-2
<PAGE>

[KPMG Peat Marwick LLP]

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

Management
Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group:

We have audited the accompanying combined statements of operations, equity,
and cash flows of the Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group (the "Company") for
the year ended December 31, 1995. These combined financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis
for our opinion.

In our opinion, the 1995 combined financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and the
cash flows of the Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group for the year ended
December 31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.

/s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP

Louisville, Kentucky
February 7, 1996

F-3
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
----------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- -------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net sales......................................... $374,065 $340,047 $332,842
Cost of products sold............................. 269,331 250,061 252,616
-------- -------- --------
Gross profit...................................... 104,734 89,986 80,226
-------- -------- --------
Selling, general and administrative expenses...... 89,328 79,804 74,995
Interest expense.................................. 5,851 6,611 7,323
Interest income and other......................... (733) (377) 914
-------- -------- --------
94,446 86,038 83,232
-------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before income taxes................. 10,288 3,948 (3,006)
Income tax expense (benefit)...................... 3,946 1,457 (564)
-------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)................................. $ 6,342 $ 2,491 $ (2,442)
======== ======== ========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-4
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 31,
------------------
1997 1996
-------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 5,792 $ 3,326
Accounts receivable, net.................................. 54,014 49,530
Inventories............................................... 52,532 48,064
Deferred income taxes..................................... 3,579 4,938
Other current assets...................................... 3,641 4,482
-------- --------
Total current assets........................................ 119,558 110,340
Property, plant and equipment, net.......................... 46,642 45,584
Intangible assets, net...................................... 48,435 49,260
Other assets................................................ 8,865 6,758
-------- --------
Total assets................................................ $223,500 $211,942
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable.......................................... $ 21,396 $ 19,155
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities............ 25,062 22,405
Current portion of long-term debt......................... 7,810 7,740
-------- --------
Total current liabilities................................... 54,268 49,300
Deferred income taxes....................................... 5,669 5,582
Long-term debt, less current portion........................ 54,256 61,820
Other long-term liabilities................................. 3,738 3,898
-------- --------
Total liabilities........................................... 117,931 120,600
Equity:
Thomas' investment........................................ 109,511 94,778
Foreign currency translation.............................. (3,574) (2,656)
Minimum pension liability................................. (368) (780)
-------- --------
Total equity................................................ 105,569 91,342
-------- --------
Total liabilities and equity................................ $223,500 $211,942
======== ========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-5
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
--------------------------
1997 1996 1995
-------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Thomas' investment:
Beginning of year................................. $ 94,778 $83,693 $89,669
Net income (loss)................................. 6,342 2,491 (2,442)
Net change in Thomas advances..................... 8,391 8,594 (2,428)
Dividend paid to Thomas........................... -- -- (1,106)
-------- ------- -------
End of year..................................... 109,511 94,778 83,693
Foreign currency translation:
Beginning of year................................. (2,656) (2,423) (3,558)
Adjustment........................................ (918) (233) 1,135
-------- ------- -------
End of year..................................... (3,574) (2,656) (2,423)
Minimum pension liability:
Beginning of year................................. (780) (1,654) (991)
Adjustment........................................ 412 874 (663)
-------- ------- -------
End of year..................................... (368) (780) (1,654)
-------- ------- -------
Total equity.................................... $105,569 $91,342 $79,616
======== ======= =======
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-6
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
--------------------------
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- --------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss)................................. $ 6,342 $ 2,491 $ (2,442)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization................... 9,345 8,934 8,784
Deferred income taxes........................... 1,313 (71) (1,020)
Provision for losses on accounts receivable..... 327 534 477
Loss (gain) on asset disposals, net............. (822) 101 121
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net
of effect of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable........................... (4,211) (5,908) 346
Inventories................................... (4,141) (718) 8,074
Other current assets.......................... 782 2,024 (1,028)
Accounts payable.............................. 1,954 (1,689) 2,942
Accrued expenses and other liabilities........ 2,250 2,515 5,163
Other......................................... (1,651) (673) (178)
------- ------- --------
Net cash provided by operating activities......... 11,488 7,540 21,239
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of property, plant and equipment......... (9,006) (7,675) (5,849)
Purchase of company (net of cash acquired)........ (1,371) -- --
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and
equipment........................................ 954 61 323
------- ------- --------
Net cash used in investing activities............. (9,423) (7,614) (5,526)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Payments on long-term debt........................ (7,608) (7,740) (7,740)
Net change in Thomas advances..................... 8,391 8,594 (2,428)
Dividend paid to Thomas........................... -- -- (1,106)
------- ------- --------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities....................................... 783 854 (11,274)
Effect of exchange rate changes................... (382) 83 (46)
------- ------- --------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents......... 2,466 863 4,393
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year.... 3,326 2,463 (1,930)
------- ------- --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year.......... $ 5,792 $ 3,326 $ 2,463
======= ======= ========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-7
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 1997

NOTE 1--DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

On April 28, 1998, Thomas Industries Inc. (Thomas) entered into definitive
agreements with The Genlyte Group Incorporated, providing for the formation of
a joint venture lighting company. Under the terms of the agreements, Thomas
will contribute substantially all of the assets comprising its lighting group
(Thomas Lighting) to the joint venture in exchange for a 32% interest in the
joint venture and the joint venture's assumption of certain liabilities. The
transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 1998.

The accompanying financial statements pertain to the business which will be
contributed to the joint venture before certain adjustments and represent a
carve-out financial statement presentation of Thomas' contributed operations.
The financial statements include allocations and estimates of direct and
indirect Thomas corporate administrative expenses attributable to the
contributed operations. The methods by which such amounts are attributed or
allocated are deemed reasonable by management.

Thomas Lighting designs, manufactures, markets, and sells lighting products
for a broad range of applications including commercial, industrial, outdoor,
consumer, and controls. Manufacturing, sales, and distribution facilities are
located throughout North America.

NOTE 2--ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Combination

The combined financial statements include the accounts of Thomas Lighting.
Affiliates included in the combined financial statements that are not majority
owned are accounted for using the equity method, under which Thomas Lighting's
share of earnings of these affiliates is included in income as earned.
Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated.

Use of Estimates

Management of Thomas Lighting has made a number of estimates and assumptions
relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these financial statements in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Actual results could
differ from these estimates.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Inventories valued
using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method represented approximately 90% and
92% of consolidated inventories at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
Inventories not on LIFO are valued using the first-in, first-out (FIFO)
method. Inventories at December 31 consisted of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Finished goods.................................................. $30,621 $28,665
Raw materials................................................... 13,454 10,449
Work in process................................................. 8,457 8,950
------- -------
Total inventories............................................... $52,532 $48,064
======= =======
</TABLE>

On a current cost basis, inventories would have been $6,466,000 and
$6,852,000 higher than reported at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.

F-8
<PAGE>

Property, Plant and Equipment

The cost of property, plant and equipment is depreciated principally by the
straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Property, plant and
equipment at December 31 consisted of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Land.................................................... $ 5,502 $ 5,580
Buildings............................................... 19,013 18,765
Leasehold improvements.................................. 7,954 8,298
Machinery and equipment................................. 53,495 51,142
------- -------
85,964 83,785
Accumulated depreciation and amortization............... (39,322) (38,201)
------- -------
Total property, plant and equipment, net................ $46,642 $45,584
======= =======
</TABLE>

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets represent the excess of cost over the fair value of net
assets of companies acquired and are stated net of accumulated amortization of
$16,326,000 and $14,751,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
Excess of cost over the fair value of net assets acquired (or goodwill)
generally is amortized on a straight-line basis over 40 years. The carrying
amount of goodwill is reviewed if facts and circumstances suggest that it may
be impaired. If this review indicates that goodwill will not be recoverable,
as determined based on the estimated undiscounted cash flows of the entity
acquired over the remaining amortization period, the carrying amount of the
goodwill is reduced by the estimated shortfall of cash flows. In addition,
Thomas assesses long-lived assets for impairment under Financial Accounting
Standards Board Statement No. 121, Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived
Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of. Under those rules,
goodwill associated with assets acquired in a purchase business combination is
included in impairment evaluations when events or circumstances exist that
indicate the carrying amount of those assets may not be recoverable.

Research and Development Costs

Research and development costs, which include costs of product improvements
and design, are expensed as incurred ($6,130,000 in 1997, $5,711,000 in 1996,
and $5,750,000 in 1995).

Financial Instruments

Various methods and assumptions are used by Thomas Lighting in estimating
its fair value disclosures for significant financial instruments. Fair values
of cash equivalents approximate their carrying amount because they are highly
liquid investments with a maturity of less than three months when purchased.
The fair value of long-term debt is based on the present value of the
underlying cash flows discounted at the current estimated borrowing rates
available to Thomas Lighting.

Foreign Currency Translation

The local currency is the functional currency for Thomas Lighting's foreign
subsidiaries. Results are translated into U.S. dollars using monthly average
exchange rates, while balance sheet accounts are translated using year-end
exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are included as a
foreign currency translation adjustment in equity.

F-9
<PAGE>

Income Taxes

Thomas Lighting is included in the consolidated federal income tax return of
Thomas. Under Thomas' tax sharing policy relative to companies included in the
consolidated return, the tax liability or refund shown on Thomas' consolidated
return is generally allocated to companies in the consolidated group on the
basis of separate return computations. Adjustments are generally made to
separate return computations when the consolidated group realizes tax benefits
(or incurs additional tax) which would not have been realized (or incurred) by
an individual company on a stand-alone basis. Such adjustments are allocated
to the companies giving rise to such benefits or additional tax.

Stock-Based Compensation

In 1996, Thomas adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123,
"Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" (SFAS 123). In accordance with SFAS
123, Thomas and Thomas Lighting have elected to follow Accounting Principles
Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" (APB 25) and
related interpretations, in accounting for its stock based compensation
because, as discussed below, the alternative fair value accounting provided
for under SFAS 123 requires use of option valuation models that were not
developed for use in valuing stock options. Under APB 25, because the exercise
price of Thomas' stock options equals the market price of the underlying stock
on the date of grant, no compensation expense is recognized.

Pro forma information regarding net income is required by SFAS 123, which
also requires that the information be determined if Thomas has accounted for
its employee stock options granted subsequent to December 31, 1994 under the
fair value method of SFAS 123. The fair value for these options was estimated
at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the
following weighted-average assumptions:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
----- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Risk-free interest rate................................. 5.5% 6.5% 6.5%
Expected life, in years................................. 6.5 8.0 8.0
Expected volatility..................................... 0.264 0.273 0.273
Expected dividend yield................................. 1.8% 2.0% 2.0%
</TABLE>

The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating
the fair value of traded options which have no vesting restriction and are
fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of
highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility.
Because Thomas' stock options have characteristics significantly different
from those of traded options, and because changes in the subjective input
assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in management's
opinion, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single
measure of the fair value of its stock options.

For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the
options is amortized to expense over the options' vesting period. Thomas' pro
forma information follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net income (loss)
As reported...................................... $6,342 $2,491 $(2,442)
Pro forma........................................ 6,032 2,276 (2,539)
</TABLE>

Because SFAS 123 is applicable only to options granted subsequent to
December 31, 1994, its pro forma effect will not be fully reflected until
1999.

F-10
<PAGE>

A summary of stock option activity for all plans follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
WEIGHTED WEIGHTED WEIGHTED
AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE
OPTIONS PRICE OPTIONS PRICE OPTIONS PRICE
------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --------
(OPTIONS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Beginning of year............ 359 $11.36 304 $10.31 238 $ 8.23
Granted...................... 86 21.75 86 14.00 100 14.31
Exercised.................... (17) 8.27 (19) 6.91 (21) 6.85
Forfeited or expired......... (2) 11.84 (12) 10.94 (13) 8.58
--- ------ --- ------ --- ------
End of year.................. 426 $13.59 359 $11.36 304 $10.31
--- ------ --- ------ --- ------
Exercisable at end of year... 139 $ 9.37 106 $ 8.15 86 $ 7.54
</TABLE>

The weighted average fair value of options granted was $6.48 in 1997, $5.04
in 1996 and $4.97 in 1995 using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Options
outstanding at December 31, 1997 had option prices ranging from $6.58 to
$21.75 and expire at various dates between October 18, 2000 and December 9,
2007 (with a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 7.9 years). There
are 274,646 shares reserved for future grant.

In addition to the options listed above, 3,999 performance share awards were
granted in December 1997 and 3,750 performance shares were granted in December
1996. Awards may be earned based on the total shareholder return of Thomas
during the three-year periods commencing January 1 following the grant date.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
Statement No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income (SFAS 130), which requires
disclosure of all items that are recognized under accounting standards as
components of comprehensive income. SFAS 130 requires companies to classify
items of other comprehensive income by their nature in a financial statement
and to display the accumulated balance of other comprehensive income
separately in the equity section of the balance sheet. SFAS 130 will be
adopted in the first quarter of 1998 and is not anticipated to affect
significantly the financial statements or disclosures therein.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized upon shipment of goods to customers.

Other

Accounts receivable at December 31, 1997 and 1996, were net of an allowance
for doubtful accounts of $1,515,000 and $1,733,000, respectively.

Long-lived assets and intangibles are evaluated regularly in accordance with
Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 121. Thomas is not aware of
an impairment of any asset employed in the business. There have been no events
or circumstances that have occurred that would indicate an impairment exists.

NOTE 3--INCOME TAXES

A summary of the provision for income tax expense (benefit) follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current:
Federal........................................ $2,315 $1,379 $ 481
State.......................................... 292 130 (44)
Foreign........................................ 26 19 19
------ ------ -------
2,633 1,528 456
Deferred--federal and state...................... 1,313 (71) (1,020)
------ ------ -------
Total income tax expense (benefit)........... $3,946 $1,457 $ (564)
====== ====== =======
</TABLE>

F-11
<PAGE>

Deferred income taxes are provided for significant income and expense items
recognized in different years for tax and financial reporting purposes.
Temporary differences which gave rise to significant deferred tax assets and
liabilities at December 31 follow:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------ ------
(IN
THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards............................... $1,339 $2,382
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable..................... 519 566
Inventory reserves............................................. 1,052 2,239
Accrued compensation expenses.................................. 1,529 1,562
Other.......................................................... 938 908
------ ------
5,377 7,657
Less valuation allowance......................................... 1,339 2,382
------ ------
Net deferred tax asset........................................... 4,038 5,275
Deferred tax liabilities:
Accelerated depreciation....................................... 4,285 4,193
Inventory valuation............................................ 1,190 1,205
Pension expense................................................ 1,026 930
Other.......................................................... 699 774
------ ------
7,200 7,102
------ ------
Net deferred tax liability................................... $3,162 $1,827
====== ======
Classification:
Current asset.................................................. $3,579 $4,938
Long-term asset................................................ 459 337
Current liability.............................................. 1,531 1,520
Long-term liability............................................ 5,669 5,582
------ ------
Net deferred tax liability................................... $3,162 $1,827
====== ======
</TABLE>

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified according to the related
asset and liability classification on the combined balance sheet.

The realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon Thomas Lighting
generating future taxable income when temporary differences become deductible.
Based upon historical and projected levels of taxable income, management
believes it is more likely than not Thomas Lighting will realize the benefits
of the deductible differences, net of a $1,339,000 valuation allowance,
provided for income tax loss carryforwards in U.S. and foreign jurisdictions,
the realization of which is not assured within the carryforward periods. The
net future tax benefit and date of expiration of such loss carryforwards are
as follows: $269,000, January 1, 2005; 108,000, January 1, 2006; and $962,000
between January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2010.

The U.S. and foreign components of income (loss) before income taxes follow:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------- ------ -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
United States.................................... $ 9,184 $2,544 $(3,120)
Foreign.......................................... 1,104 1,404 114
------- ------ -------
Income (loss) before income taxes................ $10,288 $3,948 $(3,006)
======= ====== =======
</TABLE>

F-12
<PAGE>

A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax to Thomas Lighting's
provision for income taxes follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------ ------ -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Income tax expense (benefit) computed at U.S.
statutory rate................................ $3,601 $1,382 $(1,052)
State income taxes, net of federal tax
benefits...................................... 190 85 (29)
Nondeductible amortization of intangible
assets........................................ 518 518 518
Foreign losses................................. (360) (467) 21
Other.......................................... (3) (61) (22)
------ ------ -------
Total provision for income taxes............. $3,946 $1,457 $ (564)
====== ====== =======
</TABLE>

Thomas Lighting's foreign subsidiaries have accumulated undistributed
earnings ($10,576,000 at December 31, 1997) on which U.S. taxes have not been
provided. Under current tax regulations and with the availability of certain
tax credits, it is management's belief that the likelihood of Thomas Lighting
incurring significant taxes on any distribution of such accumulated earnings
is remote. Dividends, if any, would be paid principally from current earnings.

Thomas Lighting was allocated from Thomas or made federal, state and foreign
income tax payments of $3,814,000 in 1997, $1,440,000 in 1996, and $19,000 in
1995.

NOTE 4--LONG-TERM DEBT AND CREDIT ARRANGEMENTS

Long-term debt consists principally of 9.36% senior notes with annual
maturities through 2005 ($54,080,000 and $61,810,000 at December 31, 1997 and
1996, respectively).

The fair value of Thomas Lighting's long-term debt at December 31, 1997 and
1996, was $59,201,000 and $65,883,000, respectively.

Maturities of long-term debt for the next five years are as follows: 1998--
$7,810,000, 1999--$7,835,000, 2000--$7,800,000, 2001--$7,800,000, and 2002--
$7,730,000.

Cash paid for interest was $6,158,000 in 1997, $6,877,000 in 1996, and
$7,611,000 in 1995.

NOTE 5--RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Thomas Lighting has operated as a segment of Thomas for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995. Thomas has provided Thomas Lighting with
certain services including data processing, financial services, and other
corporate functions. Charges for these services were allocated based on usage,
or other methods that management believed to be reasonable, and amounted to
$6,195,000, $5,646,000, and $5,609,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996, and 1995, respectively. Thomas uses a centralized cash management system
under which cash receipts of Thomas Lighting were remitted to Thomas and cash
disbursements of Thomas Lighting were funded by Thomas.

For purposes of these separate financial statements, payables and
receivables related to transactions between Thomas and Thomas Lighting are
included as a component of Thomas' investment. Thomas does not charge Thomas
Lighting with interest costs associated with the intercompany balance which
averaged $37,660,000 in 1997, $30,339,000 in 1996, and $35,394,000 in 1995.

NOTE 6--RETIREMENT PLANS

Thomas Lighting has noncontributory defined benefit pension plans and
contributory defined contribution plans covering its hourly union employees.
The defined benefit plans primarily provide flat benefits of stated amounts
for each year of service. Thomas Lighting's policy is to fund pension costs
deductible for income tax purposes.

F-13
<PAGE>

Thomas Lighting also has defined contribution pension plans covering
substantially all U.S. employees whose compensation is not determined by
collective bargaining. Annual contributions are determined by Thomas' Board of
Directors.

A summary of pension expense follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------- ------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Defined benefit plans:
Service cost-benefits earned during the period.... $ 342 $ 324 $ 264
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation..... 1,421 1,265 1,269
Actual return on plan assets...................... (4,014) (2,072) (3,623)
Net amortization and deferral..................... 2,590 731 2,647
------- ------- -------
Net pension cost of defined benefit plans........... 339 248 557
Defined contribution plans.......................... 2,133 1,852 1,634
Multi-employer plans for certain union employees and
other.............................................. 160 154 217
------- ------- -------
Total pension expense........................... $ 2,632 $ 2,254 $ 2,408
======= ======= =======
</TABLE>

The assumptions used in the accounting for the funded status of defined
benefit plans follow:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
----- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Weighted average discount rates......................... 7.15% 8.00% 7.15%
Expected long-term rates of return on assets............ 9.00% 9.00% 9.00%
</TABLE>

The following table sets forth the funded status and amounts recognized in
the combined balance sheets for Thomas Lighting's defined benefit pension
plans:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
----------------------------- -----------------------------
ASSETS EXCEED ACCUMULATED ASSETS EXCEED ACCUMULATED
ACCUMULATED BENEFITS EXCEED ACCUMULATED BENEFITS EXCEED
BENEFITS ASSETS BENEFITS ASSETS
------------- --------------- ------------- ---------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Actuarial present value
of benefit obligations:
Vested benefit
obligation........... $10,864 $ 9,021 $ 9,703 $ 8,067
------- ------- ------- -------
Accumulated benefit
obligation........... 11,304 9,490 10,009 8,266
Plan assets at fair
value.................. 13,130 8,900 11,500 7,062
------- ------- ------- -------
Accumulated benefit
obligation less than
(in excess of) plan
assets................. 1,826 (590) 1,491 (1,204)
Unrecognized net (gain)
loss................... (667) 567 (475) 780
Unrecognized net
obligation, net of
amortization........... 458 1,176 518 1,374
Additional minimum
liability.............. -- (1,743) -- (2,154)
------- ------- ------- -------
Prepaid pension
asset (liability).. $ 1,617 $ (590) $ 1,534 $(1,204)
======= ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>

The defined benefit plans' assets at December 31, 1997, consisted primarily
of listed stocks and bonds, including 51,072 shares of Thomas common stock
having a market value of $1,009,000 at that date.

NOTE 7--OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS

Thomas Lighting provides postretirement medical and life insurance benefits
for certain retirees and employees, and accrues the cost of such benefits
during the service lives of such employees.

F-14
<PAGE>

Net periodic postretirement benefit cost includes the following components:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ---- ----
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Service cost on benefits earned........................... $ 18 $ 40 $ 34
Interest cost on benefits obligation...................... 273 285 351
Net amortization and deferral............................. 192 186 275
---- ---- ----
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost.................. $483 $511 $660
==== ==== ====
</TABLE>

The following table sets forth the status and amounts recognized in the
combined balance sheets for Thomas Lighting's postretirement benefit plans:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Retiree participants.................................... $ 3,072 $ 2,914
Fully eligible active participants...................... 138 182
Other active participants............................... 512 533
------- -------
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation........... 3,722 3,629
Unrecognized prior service cost......................... (27) (29)
Unrecognized net gain................................... 416 551
Unrecognized transition obligation...................... (2,636) (2,811)
------- -------
Accrued postretirement benefit liability................ $ 1,475 $ 1,340
======= =======
</TABLE>

Assumptions used to measure expected health care costs follow:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Discount rate........................................... 7.15% 8.00% 7.15%
Initial health care cost trend rate..................... 8.00% 9.00% 9.00%
Ultimate health care cost trend rate.................... 4.50% 5.00% 5.50%
Year ultimate trend rate is achieved.................... 2006 2004 2004
</TABLE>

The health care cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the
amounts reported. For example, increasing the assumed health care cost trend
rates by one percentage point in each year would increase the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 1997, by $340,000 and the
aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic
postretirement benefit cost for the year ended December 31, 1997, by $28,000.

NOTE 8--LEASES, COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Total rental expense was $2,709,000 in 1997; $2,474,000 in 1996; and
$2,746,000 in 1995. Future minimum rentals for the five years ending December
31, 2002, and in the aggregate thereafter, are as follows: 1998--$1,595,000;
1999--$1,179,000; 2000--$702,000; 2001--$315,000; 2002--$3,000; and none
thereafter.

Thomas Lighting had letters of credit outstanding in the aggregate amount of
$1,862,000 at December 31, 1997.

Thomas Lighting, like other manufacturers, is subject to environmental rules
and regulations regarding the use, disposal and cleanup of substances
regulated under environmental protection laws. It is Thomas Lighting's policy
to comply with these rules and regulations, and Thomas Lighting believes that
its practices and procedures are designed to meet this compliance. Thomas
Lighting is involved in remedial efforts at certain of its present and former
locations; and when costs can be reasonably estimated, Thomas Lighting records
appropriate liabilities for such matters. Estimated liabilities are not
discounted to present value. Thomas does not believe that the ultimate
resolution of environmental matters will have a material adverse effect on its
financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

F-15
<PAGE>

In the normal course of business, Thomas Lighting is party to legal
proceedings and claims. When costs can be reasonably estimated, Thomas
Lighting records appropriate liabilities for such matters. While management
currently believes the amount of ultimate liability, if any, with respect to
these actions will not materially affect the financial position, results of
operations, or liquidity of Thomas Lighting, the ultimate outcome of any
litigation is uncertain. Were an unfavorable outcome to occur, the impact
could be material to Thomas Lighting.

NOTE 9--ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

A summary of accrued expenses and other current liabilities at December 31
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Accrued wages, taxes and withholdings.................... $ 7,328 $ 5,437
Accrued insurance........................................ 3,465 3,695
Accrued sales expense.................................... 4,987 4,492
Income taxes payable (receivable)........................ 921 (1,396)
Other current liabilities................................ 8,361 10,187
------- -------
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities. $25,062 $22,405
======= =======
</TABLE>

NOTE 10--YEAR 2000 ISSUE (UNAUDITED)

Some of Thomas Lighting's computer programs were written using two digits
rather than four to define the applicable year. As a result, those computer
programs have time-sensitive software that recognize a date using "00" as the
year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could cause disruptions of
operations including, among other things, a temporary inability to process
transactions, send invoices, or engage in similar normal business activities.
In 1996, Thomas Lighting initiated a program to address this issue so that
computer systems will function properly with respect to dates in the year 2000
and thereafter. To date, Thomas Lighting has incurred and expensed
approximately $1.4 million for assessment and modification of software under
this program. The program is estimated to be completed not later than December
31, 1998, which is prior to any anticipated impact on operating systems.
Future expenditures to complete the project are not expected to have a
material effect on financial position or results of operations. There can be
no guarantee regarding costs or completion date, and actual results could
differ materially from those anticipated. Specific factors that might cause
such material differences include, but are not limited to, the availability
and cost of personnel trained in this area, the ability to locate and correct
all relevant computer codes, and similar uncertainties.

F-16
<PAGE>

Thomas Lighting has initiated formal communications with all significant
suppliers and large customers to determine the extent to which Thomas
Lighting's interface systems are vulnerable to those third parties' failure to
remediate their own year 2000 issues. There is no guarantee that the systems
of the companies on which Thomas Lighting relies will be converted on a timely
basis and would not have an adverse effect on Thomas Lighting.

NOTE 11--GEOGRAPHIC DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNITED STATES CANADA ELIMINATIONS CONSOLIDATED
------------- ------- ------------ ------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1997
Sales-unaffiliated
Customers.............. $331,094 $42,971 $374,065
Inter-company Sales..... 8,048 489 $(8,537) 0
-------- ------- ------- --------
Total Sales............. 339,142 43,460 (8,537) 374,065
Operating Earnings...... 21,023 1,355 22,378
Identifiable Assets..... 191,663 31,837 223,500
1996
Sales-unaffiliated
Customers.............. $301,344 $38,703 $340,047
Inter-company Sales..... 6,560 674 $(7,234) 0
-------- ------- ------- --------
Total Sales............. 307,904 39,377 (7,234) 340,047
Operating Earnings...... 15,598 750 16,348
Identifiable Assets..... 185,270 26,672 211,942
1995
Sales-unaffiliated
Customers.............. $297,792 $35,050 $332,842
Inter-company Sales..... 5,074 541 $(5,615) 0
-------- ------- ------- --------
Total Sales............. 302,866 35,591 (5,615) 332,842
Operating Earnings...... 10,696 729 11,425
Identifiable Assets..... 182,408 24,398 206,806
</TABLE>

F-17
<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS OF THOMAS LIGHTING

Set forth below is Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations of Thomas Lighting for the three years
ended December 31, 1997.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net income for 1997 was $6.3 million, an increase of $3.8 million, or 152.0%
over 1996. Net sales increased 10.0% to $374.1 million in 1997 compared to
$340.0 million in 1996.

Net income for 1996 was $2.5 million, an increase of $4.9 million, over
1995. Net sales increased 2.2% to $340.0 million in 1996 from $332.8 million
in 1995.

The increase in sales in 1997 was attributable to the strength of
construction markets as all product divisions reported higher sales. The
increase in sales in 1996 resulted from increased shipment volume to lighting
showrooms in the Consumer Division and additional shipments in the Canadian
market. Operating income for Thomas Lighting improved to $15.4 million in
1997, up from $10.2 million in 1996 and $5.2 million in 1995. The 1997
operating income represents a 51.0% improvement over 1996, while the 1996
level was 96.2% greater than 1995. The improvements were due to the additional
sales volume, improved manufacturing efficiencies and continued implementation
of cost containment programs.

Cost of products sold for 1997 was $269.3 million, an increase of 7.7%, due
primarily to increased sales volume. In 1996, cost of products sold was $250.1
million, compared to $252.6 million in 1995, a decrease of 1.0%. Cost of
products sold as a percent of net sales was 72.0% in 1997, compared to 73.6%
and 75.9% in 1996 and 1995, respectively. Gross profit margins have improved
as a result of Thomas Lighting's ongoing commitment to cost reduction efforts
primarily in the form of price reductions on purchased components, improved
manufacturing efficiencies from increased production volume, and productivity
improvements in labor costs.

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $89.3 million,
$79.8 million and $75.0 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively As a
percent of net sales, SG&A expenses were 23.9% in 1997, compared to 23.5% and
22.5% in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increase in SG&A expenses as a
percent of net sales is primarily due to additional expenditures for
information technology systems, including costs associated with Year 2000
software conversion requirements.

Income tax expense (benefit) was $3.9 million, $1.5 million and ($.6)
million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The effective income tax rate
was 37.9% in 1997, compared to 38.5% in 1996 and (20.0%) in 1995.

Interest expense for 1997 declined $.8 million or 12.1% from 1996, while the
1996 interest expense declined $.7 million, or 9.6%, from 1995. The interest
expense reductions in both years were due principally to the lower levels of
long-term debt.

Thomas Lighting, like other similar manufacturers, is subject to
environmental rules and regulations regarding the use, disposal and cleanup of
substances regulated under environmental protection laws. It is Thomas
Lighting's policy to comply with these rules and regulations, and Thomas
Lighting believes that its practices and procedures are designed to meet these
requirements. Thomas Lighting is involved in remedial efforts at certain of
its present and former locations. When such costs can be reasonably estimated,
Thomas Lighting records appropriate liabilities for such matters. Thomas does
not believe that the ultimate resolution of environmental matters will have a
material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operation or
liquidity.

During 1997, Thomas Lighting employed an average of 2,300 people, compared
to 2,150 in 1996. The increase was due to the additional sales volume.

F-18
<PAGE>

Some of Thomas Lighting's computer programs were written using two digits
rather than four to define the applicable year. As a result, those computer
programs have time-sensitive software that recognize a date using "00" as the
year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could cause disruptions of
operations including, among other things, a temporary inability to process
transactions, send invoices, or engage in similar normal business activities.
In 1996, Thomas Lighting initiated a program to address this issue so that
their computer systems will function properly with respect to dates in the
year 2000 and thereafter. To date, Thomas Lighting has incurred and expensed
approximately $1.4 million for assessment and modification of software. This
project is estimated to be completed no later than December 31, 1998, which is
prior to any anticipated impact on operating systems. There can be no
guarantee regarding costs or completion date and actual results could differ
materially from those anticipated. Specific factors that might cause such
material differences include, but are not limited to, the availability and
cost of personnel trained in this area, the ability to locate and correct all
relevant computer codes, and similar uncertainties.

LIQUIDITY AND SOURCES OF CAPITAL

Cash and cash equivalents increased to $5.8 million at December 31, 1997,
compared to $3.3 million and $2.5 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Cash flows from operating activities in 1997 increased $4.0
million from 1996 primarily due to the increase in net income and improved
management of working capital by placing greater emphasis on utilization of
accounts payable as a source of financing. In 1996, cash flows from operating
activities decreased $13.7 million compared to 1995 primarily due to an
increase in accounts receivable caused by extending additional dating terms to
customers in an effort to increase sales, and a decrease in accounts payable
in order to take advantage of vendor discounts. Cash from operations has been
utilized in funding of capital expenditures over the three-year period, along
with the net reductions of long-term debt during 1997, 1996, and 1995 totaling
$23.1 million.

Working capital increased $4.3 million during 1997 from the December 31,
1996 level, which had increased $3.3 million from December 31, 1995. From 1996
to 1997, accounts receivable increased $4.5 million and inventory increased
$4.4 million due to the higher sales volume.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In June 1996, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
Statement No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." For a discussion of this
statement and its impact on Thomas Lighting, please refer to Note 2 of "Notes
to the Combined Financial Statements."

F-19
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

UNAUDITED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTERS ENDED
MARCH 31,
---------------
1998 1997
------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Net sales...................................................... $93,715 $83,154
Cost of products sold.......................................... 67,676 60,822
------- -------
Gross profit................................................... 26,039 22,332
------- -------
Selling, general and administrative expenses................... 23,280 20,668
Interest expense............................................... 1,286 1,487
Other.......................................................... 11 --
------- -------
24,577 22,155
------- -------
Income before income taxes..................................... 1,462 177
Income tax expense............................................. 561 68
------- -------
Net income..................................................... $ 901 $ 109
======= =======
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-20
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNAUDITED
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
--------- ------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents............................. $ 1,201 $ 5,792
Accounts receivable, net.............................. 58,602 54,014
Inventories........................................... 53,571 52,532
Deferred income taxes................................. 3,448 3,579
Other current assets.................................. 3,821 3,641
-------- --------
Total current assets.................................... 120,643 119,558
Property, plant and equipment, net...................... 46,823 46,642
Intangible assets, net.................................. 48,129 48,435
Other assets............................................ 9,416 8,865
-------- --------
Total assets............................................ $225,011 $223,500
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable...................................... $ 18,801 $ 21,396
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities........ 19,724 25,062
Current portion of long-term debt..................... 7,801 7,810
-------- --------
Total current liabilities............................... 46,326 54,268
Deferred income taxes................................... 5,670 5,669
Long-term debt, less current portion.................... 46,508 54,256
Other long-term liabilities............................. 3,762 3,738
-------- --------
Total liabilities....................................... 102,266 117,931
Equity:
Thomas' investment.................................... 126,584 109,511
Accumulated other comprehensive income................ (3,839) (3,942)
-------- --------
Total equity............................................ 122,745 105,569
-------- --------
Total liabilities and equity............................ $225,011 $223,500
======== ========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-21
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

UNAUDITED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTERS ENDED
MARCH 31,
-----------------
1998 1997
-------- -------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income................................................. $ 901 $ 109
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization............................ 2,551 2,484
Deferred income taxes.................................... 95 (284)
Provision for losses on accounts receivable.............. 102 53
Loss (gain) on asset disposals, net...................... (7) 6
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of
effect of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable.................................... (4,675) 810
Inventories............................................ (1,020) (3,659)
Other current assets................................... (182) 67
Accounts payable....................................... (2,598) (4,378)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities................. (5,279) (4,153)
Other.................................................. (660) 456
-------- -------
Net cash used in operating activities...................... (10,772) (8,489)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of property, plant and equipment.................. (2,275) (1,706)
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment....... 18 9
-------- -------
Net cash used in investing activities...................... (2,257) (1,697)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Payments on long-term debt................................. (7,757) (7,740)
Net change in Thomas advances.............................. 16,172 19,249
-------- -------
Net cash provided by financing activities.................. 8,415 11,509
Effect of exchange rate changes............................ 23 (70)
-------- -------
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents....... (4,591) 1,253
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of quarter.......... 5,792 3,326
-------- -------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of quarter................ $ 1,201 $ 4,579
======== =======
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes.

F-22
<PAGE>

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC. LIGHTING GROUP

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED INTERIM COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

MARCH 31, 1998

NOTE A--BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The accompanying unaudited condensed combined financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial reporting. Accordingly, they do not include all the
information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles
for complete financial statements.

The results of operations for the three-month period ended March 31, 1998,
are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the
year ending December 31, 1998. In the opinion of management, all adjustments
considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. For further
information, refer to the combined financial statements and footnotes included
in the Thomas Lighting audited combined financial statements for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995.

NOTE B--CONTINGENCIES

In the normal course of business, Thomas Lighting is a party to legal
proceedings and claims. When costs can be reasonably estimated, appropriate
liabilities for such matters are recorded. While management currently believes
the amount of ultimate liability, if any, with respect to these actions will
not materially affect the financial position, results of operations, or
liquidity of Thomas Lighting, the ultimate outcome of any litigation is
uncertain. Were an unfavorable outcome to occur, the impact could be material
to Thomas Lighting.

NOTE C--COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

As of January 1, 1998, Thomas Lighting adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 130, Reporting Comprehensive Income (SFAS 130). SFAS
130 establishes new rules for the reporting and display of comprehensive
income and its components; however, the adoption of this Statement had no
impact on Thomas Lighting's net income or shareholders' equity. SFAS 130
requires unrealized gains or losses on Thomas Lighting's foreign currency
translation and minimum pension liability adjustments, which, prior to
adoption, were reported separately in shareholders' equity to be included in
other comprehensive income.

During the first quarter of 1998 and 1997, total comprehensive income was
$1,004,000 and $(104,000), respectively. Disclosure of accumulated balances of
other comprehensive income (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ACCUMULATED
MINIMUM FOREIGN OTHER
PENSION CURRENCY COMPREHENSIVE
LIABILITY TRANSLATION INCOME
--------- ----------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Beginning balance........................... $(368) $(3,574) $(3,942)
Current-year other comprehensive income..... -- 103 103
----- ------- -------
Ending balance.............................. $(368) $(3,471) $(3,839)
===== ======= =======
</TABLE>

NOTE D--SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On April 28, 1998, Thomas Industries Inc. (Thomas) entered into definitive
agreements with The Genlyte Group Incorporated providing for the formation of
a joint venture lighting company. Under the terms of the Agreement, Thomas
will contribute substantially all of the assets comprising its lighting group
(Thomas Lighting) to the joint venture in exchange for a 32% interest in the
joint venture and the joint venture's assumption of certain liabilities. The
transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 1998.

F-23
<PAGE>

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS OF THOMAS LIGHTING

Set forth below is Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations of Thomas Lighting for the quarters ended
March 31, 1998 and March 31, 1997.

Net sales during the first quarter ended March 31, 1998 increased 12.7% over
the first quarter 1997 to $93.7 million due primarily to additional shipment
volume. All product groups within Thomas Lighting reported increases in net
sales.

Net income for the first quarter of 1998 is $.9 million compared to $.1
million for the first quarter of 1997. Operating income in 1998 improved to
$2.8 million in the first quarter due to strength in the Outdoor and Accent
Divisions. Lower interest expense also contributed to the increase in net
income as Thomas Lighting continued to pay down long-term debt.

Cost of products sold as a percent of sales decreased to 72.2% in the 1998
first quarter from 73.1% for the comparable 1997 period. Gross margins in 1998
have improved due to increased efficiencies and continued implementation of
cost containment programs.

Selling, general, and administrative expense in the first quarter of 1998
was $23.3 million compared to the prior-year first quarter of $20.7 million.
SG&A expense as a percent of net sales was 24.8% for the first quarter 1998
and 24.9% for the comparable period in 1997.

Interest expense for the first three months of 1998 was 13.3% lower than the
comparable 1997 period. A decrease in long-term debt was the primary cause for
the lower interest expense.

Working capital of $74.3 million at March 31, 1998 was 13.8% higher than the
$65.3 million at December 31, 1997. Accounts receivable at March 31, 1998 have
increased by 8.5% since December 31, 1997 due to seasonal factors associated
with scheduled plant shutdowns for normal maintenance and holidays in December
1997, and reduced shipment levels in December 1997 in the Outdoor market
segment. Inventory at March 31, 1998 was $53.6 million compared to $52.5
million at December 31, 1997. The current ratio at March 31, 1998 improved to
2.6 compared to 2.2 at December 31, 1997.

F-24
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INTRODUCTION

The following pro forma consolidated financial statements of Genlyte (the
"Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements"), include the unaudited
pro forma consolidated statements of income for the quarter ended April 4,
1998 and for the year ended December 31, 1997 (the "Genlyte Pro Forma
Consolidated Statements of Income"), and the unaudited pro forma consolidated
balance sheet as of April 4, 1998 (the "Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet").

The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income are based on the
unaudited consolidated statement of income of Genlyte for the quarter ended
April 4, 1998, the unaudited combined statement of income of Thomas Lighting
for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, the audited consolidated statement of
income of Genlyte for the year ended December 31, 1997, and the audited
combined statement of income of Thomas Lighting for the year ended December
31, 1997, and are adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as though it had
occurred as of January 1, 1997.

The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet is based on the unaudited
consolidated balance sheet of Genlyte as of April 4, 1998 and the unaudited
combined balance sheet of Thomas Lighting as of March 31, 1998, and is
adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as if it had occurred on April 4,
1998.

The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements reflect pro forma
adjustments to give effect to the transactions contemplated in the Transaction
Documents whereby (a) Genlyte will contribute to the joint venture ("Joint
Venture") substantially all of its assets in exchange for a 68% interest in
the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of substantially all of
its liabilities and (b) Thomas will contribute to the Joint Venture
substantially all of its assets comprising Thomas Lighting in exchange for a
32% interest in the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of
certain liabilities. For accounting purposes, Genlyte's majority ownership of
the Joint Venture requires the assets and liabilities contributed by Thomas to
the Joint Venture to be valued at their fair value in Genlyte's consolidated
financial statements. Certain pro forma adjustments result from management's
preliminary determination of purchase accounting adjustments and are based
upon available information and certain assumptions that management considers
reasonable under the circumstances. Consequently, the amounts reflected in the
Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements are subject to change.

The assets contributed by Genlyte to the Joint Venture will be reflected at
their historical cost. The contribution of Genlyte's business to the Joint
Venture will trigger the recognition of a one-time gain of approximately $62.9
million in the period in which the Transaction occurs. Such contribution
includes, for accounting purposes, a sale of 32% of Genlyte's contributed
business to Thomas and the resultant gain represents the excess of fair value
over book value for the 32% of Genlyte's contributed business. Due to its non-
recurring nature, such gain has not been reflected in the Genlyte Pro Forma
Consolidated Statements of Income.

The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying
notes should be read in conjunction with Genlyte's historical consolidated
financial statements and the notes thereto incorporated by reference herein,
and Thomas Lighting's historical combined financial statements and notes
thereto, appearing elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements do not purport to be
indicative of what Genlyte's financial condition or results of operations
would have been had the Transaction in fact been consummated as of the assumed
dates and for the periods presented, nor are they indicative of the results of
operation or financial condition for any future period or date. In addition,
The Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements do not reflect the
Synergies expected to result from the Transaction or the related Synergy
Costs. As discussed elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the Synergies are
expected to be in excess of $30 million per annum and are expected to be fully
realized by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of
scale and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an
aggregate of $10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the Joint Venture
during the period 1998 through 2000 related to achieving the Synergies. See
"The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons for the Transaction."

F-25
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED APRIL 4, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
GENLYTE PRO FORMA (A)
--------------------------------------------
THOMAS LIGHTING PRO FORMA (A)
-------------------------------------
PRO
HISTORICAL FORMA PRO
THOMAS CONTRIBUTION THOMAS HISTORICAL TRANSACTION FORMA
LIGHTING (B) ADJUSTMENTS (C) LIGHTING GENLYTE ADJUSTMENTS (H) GENLYTE
------------ --------------- -------- ---------- --------------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales............... $93,715 $4,040 (d) $97,755 $130,124 $ -- $227,879
Cost of Sales......... 67,676 -- 67,676 85,648 200 (i) 153,524
------- ------ ------- -------- ------- --------
Gross Profit............ 26,039 4,040 30,079 44,476 (200) 74,355
Selling &
Administrative
Expenses............. 23,280 4,040 (d) 26,677 32,851 135 (j) 59,713
(643)(e) 50 (i)
------- ------ ------- -------- ------- --------
Operating Profit........ 2,759 643 3,402 11,625 (385) 14,642
Interest Expense, net. 1,245 (986)(f) 259 844 -- 1,103
Other Non-Operating
Expenses............. 52 -- 52 -- -- 52
Minority Interest
Expense.............. -- -- -- -- 4,396 (k) 4,396
------- ------ ------- -------- ------- --------
Income Before Income
Taxes.................. 1,462 1,629 3,091 10,781 (4,781) 9,091
Income Tax Provision.. 561 (561)(g) -- 4,635 (726)(l) 3,909
------- ------ ------- -------- ------- --------
Net Income.............. $ 901 $2,190 $ 3,091 $ 6,146 $(4,055) $ 5,182
======= ====== ======= ======== ======= ========
Earnings Per Share:
Basic................. (m) (m) $ 0.45 $ 0.38
Diluted............... (m) (m) $ 0.45 $ 0.38
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES EXPECTED TO
RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income.

F-26
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
GENLYTE PRO FORMA(A)
----------------------------------------------
THOMAS LIGHTING PRO FORMA(A)
-----------------------------------
PRO
HISTORICAL FORMA
THOMAS CONTRIBUTION THOMAS HISTORICAL TRANSACTION PRO FORMA
LIGHTING ADJUSTMENTS(C) LIGHTING GENLYTE ADJUSTMENTS(H) GENLYTE
---------- -------------- -------- ---------- -------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales............... $374,065 $16,573 (d) $390,638 $487,961 $ -- $878,599
Cost of Sales......... 269,331 -- 269,331 318,556 800 (i) 588,687
-------- ------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Gross Profit............ 104,734 16,573 121,307 169,405 (800) 289,912
Selling &
Administrative
Expenses............. 89,328 16,573 (d) 103,451 131,784 541 (j) 235,976
(2,450)(e) 200 (i)
-------- ------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating Profit........ 15,406 2,450 17,856 37,621 (1,541) 53,936
Interest Expense, net. 5,851 (3,268)(f) 2,583 4,085 -- 6,668
Other Non-Operating
Expenses............. (733) -- (733) -- -- (733)
Minority Interest
Expense.............. -- -- -- -- 15,680 (k) 15,680
-------- ------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income Before Income
Taxes.................. 10,288 5,718 16,006 33,536 (17,221) 32,321
Income Tax Provision.. 3,946 (3,946)(g) -- 14,423 (525)(l) 13,898
-------- ------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net Income.............. $ 6,342 $ 9,664 $ 16,006 $ 19,113 $(16,696) $ 18,423
======== ======= ======== ======== ======== ========
Earnings Per Share:
Basic................. (m) (m) $ 1.46 $ 1.40
Diluted............... (m) (m) $ 1.42 $ 1.37
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES EXPECTED TO
RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income.

F-27
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF INCOME

NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION

On April 28, 1998, Genlyte and Thomas entered into definitive agreements to
combine the lighting business of Thomas with the business of Genlyte through
the Joint Venture. Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially
all of its assets in exchange for a 68% interest in the Joint Venture and the
Joint Venture's assumption of substantially all of its liabilities and Thomas
will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of its assets
comprising Thomas Lighting in exchange for a 32% interest in the Joint Venture
and the Joint Venture's assumption of certain liabilities. Genlyte and Thomas
will continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies.

Accounting Treatment

Genlyte will consolidate the results of the Joint Venture. Thomas' interest
in the Joint Venture will be reflected in Genlyte's consolidated balance sheet
as a minority interest liability.

Genlyte will account for the contribution of Thomas' lighting business to
the Joint Venture as a purchase in accordance with Accounting Principles Board
Opinion No. 16. Purchase accounting for a combination is similar to the
accounting treatment used in the acquisition of any asset group. Although
Thomas will retain a 32% interest in the Joint Venture, Thomas' contributed
business will be reflected at its aggregate fair value in the financial
statements of the Joint Venture. The fair value of Thomas's contributed
business was mutually determined by the parties and was the basis for
determining the ownership interests to be issued in the Joint Venture.

NOTE 2: PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS

(a) These pro forma financial statements do not reflect the Synergies
expected to result from the Transaction or the related Synergy Costs. As
discussed elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the Synergies are expected
to be in excess of $30 million per annum and are expected to be fully realized
by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of scale
and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an aggregate of
$10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the Joint Venture during the period
1998 through 2000 related to achieving the Synergies. See "The Proposed Joint
Venture--Reasons for the Transaction."

(b) The Genlyte pro forma statements of income for the quarter ended April
4, 1998 have been prepared using the unaudited historical combined statement
of income of Thomas Lighting for the quarter ended March 31, 1998.

(c) Includes the elimination of certain expenses included in Thomas
Lighting's historical financial statements that will not be borne by the Joint
Venture pursuant to the Transaction Documents.

(d) Represents the reclassification of freight expense of $4,040,000 and
$16,573,000 for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 and the year ended December
31, 1997, respectively, in Thomas Lighting's historical financial statements
to conform with the presentation in Genlyte's historical financial statements.

(e) Represents the elimination of corporate overhead expenses of $643,000
and $2,450,000, for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 and the year ended
December 31, 1997, respectively, included in Thomas Lighting's historical
financial statements that will be retained by Thomas pursuant to the
Transaction Documents.

F-28
<PAGE>

(f) The net adjustment to interest expense consists of the following (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED YEAR ENDED
APRIL 4, 1998 DECEMBER 31, 1997
------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Elimination of interest expense
associated with the Day-Brite Note..... $(1,283) $(5,833)
Interest expense on the Debt
Equalization Note at an assumed
weighted average interest rate of 6.25%
per annum.............................. 297 1,189
Interest expense on the Working Capital
Adjustment note, assuming a one year
maturity and a weighted average
interest rate of 5.75% per annum....... -- 1,376
------- -------
Net reduction in interest expense... $ (986) $(3,268)
======= =======
</TABLE>

(g) Represents the elimination of the income tax provision included in the
Thomas Lighting historical financial statements, because the income tax
attributes and liabilities generated by the Joint Venture shall accrue
directly to Genlyte and Thomas and be recorded in their respective financial
statements.

(h) Includes adjustments to Genlyte's historical financial statements
related to the contribution of Thomas' Contributed Business to the Joint
Venture.

(i) Represents the incremental depreciation expense for the quarter ended
April 4, 1998 and the year ended December 31, 1997 of $200,000 and $800,000,
respectively, charged to cost of sales and $50,000 and $200,000, respectively,
charged to selling and administrative expense, using an assumed weighted
average useful remaining life of 20 years, related to the incremental fair
value step-up of certain fixed assets of Thomas Lighting (see Note 2 (l) of
Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet). The allocation of
expense between cost of sales and selling and administrative expense is based
on Genlyte's historical depreciation mix.

(j) Represents incremental goodwill amortization of $135,000 and $541,000
for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 and the year ended December 31, 1997,
respectively, resulting from the excess of the fair market value over the
tangible book value of Thomas' Contributed Business (see Note 2 (l) to the
Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet). Such excess will be
amortized over 40 years.

(k) Represents minority interest expense related to Thomas' interest in the
Joint Venture, calculated as follows (in thousands).

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED YEAR ENDED
APRIL 4, 1998 DECEMBER 31, 1997
------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Genlyte pro forma operating profit....... $14,642 $53,936
Genlyte pro forma interest expense....... (1,103) (6,668)
Corporate expenses included in Genlyte's
historical financial statements that
will not be charged to the Joint
Venture................................. 250 1,000
Genlyte pro forma other non-operating
expenses................................ (52) 733
------- -------
13,737 49,001
Thomas' ownership interest............... 32% 32%
------- -------
Minority interest expense................ $ 4,396 $15,680
======= =======
</TABLE>

(l) Represents the adjustment to Genlyte's historical tax provision required
to reflect Genlyte's pro forma income tax provision at an assumed effective
tax rate of 43%.

(m) Such amounts are not applicable as Thomas' Contributed Business was a
division of Thomas prior to the Transaction.

F-29
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF APRIL 4, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
GENLYTE PRO FORMA
----------------------------------------------
THOMAS LIGHTING PRO FORMA
--------------------------------------
PRO
HISTORICAL FORMA
THOMAS CONTRIBUTION THOMAS HISTORICAL TRANSACTION PRO FORMA
LIGHTING (A) ADJUSTMENTS (B) LIGHTING GENLYTE ADJUSTMENTS (K) GENLYTE
------------ --------------- -------- ---------- --------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and Cash
Equivalents.......... $ 1,201 $ -- $ 1,201 $ 1,234 $ -- $ 2,435
Accounts Receivable,
net.................. 58,602 -- 58,602 81,233 -- 139,835
Inventories........... 53,571 -- 53,571 84,037 6,488 (l) 144,096
Other Current Assets.. 7,269 (3,448)(c) 3,821 20,972 -- 24,793
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total Current
Assets............. 120,643 (3,448) 117,195 187,476 6,488 311,159
Plant and Equipment,
net.................... 46,823 -- 46,823 59,091 20,000 (l) 125,914
Goodwill................ 48,129 -- 48,129 12,616 (48,129)(l) 34,257
21,641 (l)
Other Assets............ 9,416 (949)(d) 8,467 7,832 -- 16,299
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total Assets........ $225,011 $ (4,397) $220,614 $267,015 $ -- $487,629
======== ======== ======== ======== ========= ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' INVESTMENT
Current Liabilities:
Accounts Payable...... $ 18,801 $ -- $ 18,801 $ 50,547 $ -- $ 69,348
Notes Payable......... -- 23,912 (e) 23,912 -- -- 23,912
Short-Term Borrowings. -- -- -- 250 -- 250
Current Maturities of
Long-Term Debt....... 7,801 (7,730)(f) 71 58 -- 129
Accrued Expenses...... 19,724 (3,699)(g) 16,025 39,520 -- 55,545
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total Current
Liabilities........ 46,326 12,483 58,809 90,375 -- 149,184
Long-Term Debt.......... 46,508 (46,350)(f) 19,344 40,771 60,115
19,186 (h)
Deferred Income Taxes... 5,670 (5,670)(c) -- 6,831 -- 6,831
Other Liabilities....... 3,762 (733)(i) 3,029 18,663 -- 21,692
Minority Interest....... -- -- -- -- 76,508 (m) 76,508
Stockholders'
Investment.............
Common Stock.......... -- -- -- 136 -- 136
Additional Paid-In
Capital.............. -- -- -- 13,128 -- 13,128
Foreign Currency
Translation.......... -- -- -- (2,801) -- (2,801)
Retained Earnings..... 122,745 16,687 (j) 139,432 99,912 (139,432)(n) 162,836
62,924 (o)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total Stockholders'
Investment......... 122,745 16,687 139,432 110,375 (76,508) 173,299
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total Liabilities
and Stockholders'
Investment......... $225,011 $ (4,397) $220,614 $267,015 $ -- $487,629
======== ======== ======== ======== ========= ========
</TABLE>

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet.

F-30
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED GENLYTE PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Accounting Treatment

Genlyte will consolidate the results of the Joint Venture. Thomas' interest
in the Joint Venture will be reflected in Genlyte's consolidated balance sheet
as a minority interest liability.

The assets contributed by Genlyte to the Joint Venture will be reflected at
their historical cost. The contribution of Genlyte's business to the Joint
Venture will trigger the recognition of a one-time gain of approximately $62.9
million. Such contribution includes, for accounting purposes, a sale of 32% of
Genlyte's contributed business to Thomas and the resultant gain represents the
excess of fair value over book value for the 32% of Genlyte's contributed
business.

Genlyte will account for the contribution of Thomas' lighting business to
the Joint Venture as a purchase in accordance with Accounting Principles Board
Opinion No. 16. Purchase accounting for a combination is similar to the
accounting treatment used in the acquisition of any asset group. Although
Thomas will retain a 32% interest in the Joint Venture, Thomas' contributed
business will be reflected at its fair value in the financial statements of
the Joint Venture. The fair value of Thomas's contributed business was
mutually determined by the financial advisors of Genlyte and Thomas.

NOTE 2: PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS

(a) The Genlyte pro forma balance sheet has been prepared using the unaudited
historical combined balance sheet of Thomas Lighting as of March 31, 1998.

(b) Includes the elimination of certain assets and liabilities included in
Thomas Lighting's historical financial statements that Thomas will not
contribute to the Joint Venture pursuant to the Transaction Documents.

(c) Represents the elimination of current deferred income tax assets of
$3,448,000 and long-term deferred income tax liabilities of $5,670,000, as
the income tax attributes and liabilities generated by the Joint Venture
will accrue directly to Genlyte and Thomas and be recorded in their
respective financial statements.

(d) Represents the elimination of (i) the unamortized portion of the deferred
financing costs of $290,000 associated with the Day-Brite Note (see Note 2
(f)) and (ii) certain other assets, aggregating $659,000, retained by
Thomas pursuant to the Transaction Documents.

(e) Represents the estimated Working Capital Adjustment of $23,912,000,
payable to Thomas, assumed to be issued by the Joint Venture based upon
the working capital contributed to the Joint Venture by Thomas, exclusive
of the Working Capital Adjustment. The Working Capital Adjustment
liability would be settled approximately one year from the Closing.

(f) Represents the elimination of the current and long-term portions of the
Day-Brite Note of $7,730,000 and $46,350,000, respectively, included in
the historical financial statements that will be retained by Thomas.

(g) Represents the elimination of (i) income tax related liabilities of
$2,435,000, (ii) accrued interest of $837,000 associated with the Day-
Brite Note (see Note 2(f)), (iii) current Beaver Dam Liabilities
aggregating $225,000, and (iv) certain other liabilities aggregating
$202,000.

F-31
<PAGE>

(h) Represents the estimated Debt Equalization Note of $19,186,000, payable to
Thomas, to be issued by the Joint Venture. Such note reflects 32/68ths of
the long-term portion of $40,771,000 of indebtedness contributed to the
Joint Venture by Genlyte. The Debt Equalization Note is assumed to be a
long-term note.

(i) Represents the elimination of the long-term Beaver Dam Liabilities of
$733,000 retained by Thomas.

(j) The net adjustment to retained earnings consists of the net effect of the
following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Net elimination of deferred income tax assets
and liabilities (see Note 2 (c))............................... $ 2,222
Net adjustment to other assets (see Note 2 (d))................. (949)
Recognition of the Working Capital Adjustment................... (23,912)
Elimination of the Day-Brite Note (see Note 2 (f)).............. 54,080
Net adjustment to accrued expenses (see Note 2 (g))............. 3,699
Recognition of the Debt Equalization Note....................... (19,186)
Elimination of the long-term Beaver Dam Liabilities............. 733
--------
Net adjustment to retained earnings......................... $ 16,687
========
</TABLE>

(k) Includes adjustments to Genlyte's historical financial statements related
to the contribution of Thomas' Contributed Business to the Joint Venture.

(l) Represents the allocation of the excess of the fair market value over
tangible book value of Thomas' Contributed Business as follows (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Fair value of Thomas' Contributed Business as mutually
determined by Genlyte and Thomas, which was the basis for
determining the ownership interests to be issued in the Joint
Venture........................................................ $139,432
Tangible book value of Thomas' Contributed Business............. 91,303
--------
Excess of fair value over tangible book value................... 48,129
Less fair value allocations:
Inventory step-up............................................. 6,488
Property, plant and equipment step-up......................... 20,000
--------
Goodwill.................................................... $ 21,641
========
</TABLE>

The cost basis of properties and other assets were adjusted to fair market
value based on management's preliminary estimates which are subject to
change based upon the results of independent appraisals management intends
to have performed.

(m) Represents the minority interest liability related to Thomas' 32% interest
in the Joint Venture.

(n) Represents the elimination of the historical retained earnings of Thomas'
Contributed Business.

(o) Represents a one-time gain during the period in which the Transaction
occurs. Such amount reflects the excess of fair market value over book
value for Thomas' 32% interest in Genlyte's Contributed Business.

F-32
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED THOMAS PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INTRODUCTION

The following pro forma consolidated financial statements of Thomas (the
"Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements") include the unaudited
pro forma consolidated statements of income for the quarter ended March 31,
1998 and for the year ended December 31, 1997, (the "Thomas Pro Forma
Consolidated Statements of Income"), and the unaudited pro forma consolidated
balance sheet as of March 31, 1998 (the "Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Balance
Sheet").

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income have been derived
from the unaudited consolidated statement of income of Thomas for the quarter
ended March 31, 1998, and the unaudited combined statement of income of Thomas
Lighting for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, the audited consolidated
statement of income of Thomas for the year ended December 31, 1997, the
audited combined statement of operations of the Thomas Industries Inc.
Lighting Group ("Thomas Lighting") for the year ended December 31, 1997, and
are adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as if it had occurred on
January 1, 1997.

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet is based on the unaudited
consolidated balance sheet of Thomas as of March 31, 1998, and the unaudited
combined balance sheet of Thomas Lighting as of March 31, 1998, and is
adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as if it had occurred on March 31,
1998.

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements reflect pro forma
adjustments to give effect to the transactions contemplated in the Transaction
Documents whereby (a) Thomas will contribute to the Joint Venture
substantially all of Thomas Lighting's assets in exchange for a 32% interest
in the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of certain liabilities
and (b) Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of its
assets in exchange for a 68% interest in the Joint Venture and the Joint
Venture's assumption of substantially all of its liabilities. Thomas will
account for its investment in the Joint Venture under the equity method of
accounting.

The assets and liabilities contributed by Genlyte to the Joint Venture will
be reflected at historical costs. For accounting purposes, Genlyte's majority
ownership of the Joint Venture requires the assets and liabilities contributed
by Thomas to the Joint Venture to be valued at their fair value in the Joint
Venture's consolidated financial statements. Certain pro forma adjustments
result from a preliminary determination of purchase accounting adjustments and
are based upon available information and certain assumptions that management
considers reasonable under the circumstances. Consequently, the amounts
reflected in the Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements are
subject to change.

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying
notes should be read in conjunction with Thomas' historical consolidated
financial statements and the notes thereto incorporated by reference herein,
and Thomas Lighting's combined historical financial statements and notes
thereto appearing elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Statements do not purport to be indicative
of what Thomas' financial condition or results of operations would have been
had the Transaction, in fact, been consummated as of the assumed dates and for
the periods presented; nor are they indicative of the results of operations or
financial condition for any future period or date.

The Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Statements do not reflect any projected
cost savings from Synergies resulting from the Transaction and the related
Synergy Costs. As discussed elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the
Synergies are expected to be in excess of $30 million per annum and are
expected to be fully realized by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost
savings, economies of scale and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is
anticipated that an aggregate of $10.5 million of costs will be incurred by
the Joint Venture during the period 1998 through 2000 related to achieving the
Synergies. See "The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons for the Transaction."

F-33
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED THOMAS PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL PRO FORMA
THOMAS RESULTS OF THOMAS
INDUSTRIES THOMAS CONTRIBUTION INDUSTRIES
INC. LIGHTING ADJUSTMENTS INC.(A)
---------- ---------- ------------ ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales....................... $141,924 $(93,715) $ 0 $48,209
Costs of Sales................ 98,256 (67,676) 0 30,580
-------- -------- ------ -------
Gross Profit.................... 43,668 (26,039) 0 17,629
Selling & Administrative
Expenses..................... 33,772 (23,280) 643 (b) 11,135
-------- -------- ------ -------
Operating Profit................ 9,896 (2,759) (643) 6,494
Interest Expense, net......... 1,261 (1,245) 986 (c) 1,002
Other Non-Operating Expenses.. 3 (4) 0 (1)
Equity Earnings (Loss) from
Unconsolidated Affiliates.... (298) 48 3,890 (d) 3,640
-------- -------- ------ -------
Income Before Income Taxes...... 8,334 (1,462) 2,261 9,133
Income Tax Provision............ 3,084 (561) 978 (e) 3,501
-------- -------- ------ -------
Net Income...................... $ 5,250 $ (901) $1,283 $ 5,632
======== ======== ====== =======
Earnings Per Share:
Basic......................... $0.33 $0.36
Diluted....................... $0.32 $0.34
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES EXPECTED TO
RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income.

F-34
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED THOMAS PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL PRO FORMA
THOMAS RESULTS THOMAS
INDUSTRIES OF THOMAS CONTRIBUTION INDUSTRIES
INC. LIGHTING ADJUSTMENTS INC.(A)
---------- --------- ------------ ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales....................... $547,702 $(374,065) $ 0 $173,637
Costs of Sales................ 378,746 (269,331) 0 109,415
-------- --------- ------- --------
Gross Profit.................... 168,956 (104,734) 0 64,222
Selling & Administrative
Expenses..................... 127,500 (89,328) 2,450 (b) 40,622
-------- --------- ------- --------
Operating Profit................ 41,456 (15,406) (2,450) 23,600
Interest Expense, net......... 5,815 (5,570) 3,268 (c) 3,513
Other Non-Operating Expenses.. (472) 407 0 (65)
Equity Earnings (Loss) from
Unconsolidated Affiliates.... (469) (45) 13,656 (d) 13,142
-------- --------- ------- --------
Income Before Income Taxes...... 35,644 (10,288) 7,938 33,294
Income Tax Provision............ 13,174 (3,946) 4,434 (e) 13,662
-------- --------- ------- --------
Net Income...................... $ 22,470 $ (6,342) $ 3,504 $ 19,632
======== ========= ======= ========
Earnings Per Share:
Basic......................... $1.42 $1.24
Diluted....................... $1.38 $1.21
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES
EXPECTED TO RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income.

F-35
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED THOMAS PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF MARCH 31, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL THOMAS PRO FORMA
THOMAS LIGHTING THOMAS
INDUSTRIES ASSETS AND CONTRIBUTION INDUSTRIES
INC. LIABILITIES ADJUSTMENTS INC.
ASSETS ---------- ----------- ------------ ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents.......... $ 14,304 $ (1,201) $ 0 $ 13,103
Accounts Receivable, net........... 80,374 (58,602) 0 21,772
Inventory.......................... 74,973 (53,571) 0 21,402
Other Current Assets............... 14,051 (7,269) 27,360(f) 34,142
-------- --------- -------- --------
183,702 (120,643) 27,360 90,419
Property and Equipment, net........ 79,737 (46,823) 0 32,914
Goodwill........................... 55,758 (48,129) 0 7,629
Other Assets....................... 14,693 (8,678) 20,135(g) 26,150
Investments In and Advances to
Unconsolidated Affiliates......... 63 (738) 139,432(h) 138,757
-------- --------- -------- --------
Total Assets................... $333,953 $(225,011) $186,927 $295,869
======== ========= ======== ========
<CAPTION>
LIABILITIES & SHAREHOLDERS'
INVESTMENT
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts Payable................... $ 27,042 $ (18,801) $ 0 $ 8,241
Short-term Borrowings.............. 21,201 0 0 21,201
Current Portion of Long-term Debt.. 7,850 (7,801) 7,730(i) 7,779
Other Current Liabilities.......... 38,435 (19,724) 3,699(j) 22,410
-------- --------- -------- --------
94,528 (46,326) 11,429 59,631
Long-term Debt..................... 47,246 (46,508) 46,350(k) 47,088
Deferred Tax....................... 8,760 (5,670) 5,670(l) 8,760
Other Liabilities.................. 6,073 (3,762) 733(m) 3,044
Shareholders' Investment
Common Stock..................... 17,400 0 0 17,400
Additional Paid-in Capital....... 109,814 0 0 109,814
Minimum Pension Liability
Adjustment...................... (473) 0 0 (473)
Treasury Shares.................. (17,200) 0 0 (17,200)
Foreign Currency Translation..... (4,788) 0 0 (4,788)
Retained Earnings................ 72,593 (122,745) 122,745(n) 72,593
-------- --------- -------- --------
Total Shareholders'
Investments................... 177,346 (122,745) 122,745 177,346
-------- --------- -------- --------
Total Liabilities &
Shareholders' Investment.... $333,953 $(225,011) $186,927 $295,869
======== ========= ======== ========
</TABLE>

See Notes to Unaudited Thomas Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet.

F-36
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED THOMAS PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
AND BALANCE SHEET

NOTE 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

On April 28, 1998, Genlyte and Thomas entered into definitive agreements to
combine the lighting business of Thomas with the business of Genlyte through
the Joint Venture. Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially
all of its assets in exchange for a 68% interest in the Joint Venture and the
Joint Venture's assumption of substantially all of its liabilities, and Thomas
will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of its assets
comprising Thomas Lighting in exchange for a 32% interest in the Joint Venture
and the Joint Venture's assumption of certain liabilities. Genlyte and Thomas
will continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies.

Accounting Treatment

Thomas will account for its investment in the Joint Venture under the equity
method of accounting.

The contribution of Thomas' lighting business to the Joint Venture will be
accounted for as a purchase in accordance with Accounting Principles Board
Opinion No. 16. Purchase accounting for a combination is similar to the
accounting treatment used in the acquisition of any asset group. Although
Thomas will retain a 32% interest in the Joint Venture, Thomas' contributed
business will be reflected at its aggregate fair value in the financial
statements of the Joint Venture. The fair value of Thomas' contributed
business was mutually determined by the parties and was the basis for
determining the ownership interests to be issued in the Joint Venture. The
assets contributed by Genlyte to the Joint Venture will be reflected at their
historical cost.

NOTE 2. PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS

(a) These pro forma financial statements do not reflect the Synergies expected
to result from the Transaction or the related Synergy Costs. As discussed
elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement, the Synergies are expected to be
in excess of $30 million per annum and are expected to be fully realized
by the end of the year 2000 as a result of cost savings, economies of
scale and revenue enhancement opportunities. It is anticipated that an
aggregate of $10.5 million of costs will be incurred by the Joint Venture
during 1998 through 2000 related to achieving the Synergies. See "The
Proposed Joint Venture-- Reasons for the Transaction."

(b) Represents administrative costs allocated to Thomas Lighting that will not
be transferred to the Joint Venture. Administrative costs not transferred
to the Joint Venture consist of costs incurred at the corporate office
that were not previously allocated to the Thomas Lighting group. For
purposes of the pro forma statements, the Thomas Lighting group was
allocated corporate expenses from the parent, Thomas, based on the ratio
of Thomas Lighting group sales to total sales of Thomas. This resulted in
an administrative charge of $6.8 million for the year ended December 31,
1997 allocated to the Thomas Lighting group. For purposes of computing the
administrative costs to be incurred by the Joint Venture, specific
calculations were performed based on estimated hours of Thomas' personnel
to be devoted to the Joint Venture. This resulted in an administrative
charge of $4.4 million, or the difference of $2.4 million noted on
adjustment 2(b). The reason for the difference is the different
methodologies used in the calculation as compared to the allocation based
on sales historically used by Thomas.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTER ENDED YEAR ENDED
MARCH 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Interest expense associated with the Day-Brite
Note retained by Thomas...................... $1,283 $ 5,833
Interest income on the Debt Equalization Note
at an assumed weighted average interest rate
of 6.25% per annum........................... (297) (1,189)
Interest income on the Working Capital
Adjustment at an assumed weighted average
interest rate of 5.75% per annum............. -- (1,376)
------ -------
$ 986 $ 3,268
====== =======
</TABLE>

F-37
<PAGE>

(d) Represents Thomas' 32% interest in the equity income of the Joint Venture
of $4,396,000 and $15,680,000 for the periods ended March 31, 1998 and
December 31, 1997, respectively. Also, includes amortization of Thomas'
excess investment in the Joint Venture of approximately $500,000 and
$2,000,000 for the periods ended March 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997,
respectively.

(e) Represents the adjustment to Thomas' historical tax provision required to
reflect Thomas's 32% share of the Joint Venture's pre-tax earnings at an
assumed effective tax rate. The pro forma Thomas effective tax rates were
38.5% and 41.0% for the periods ended March 31, 1998 and December 31,
1997, respectively, and were based on pre-tax book earnings adjusted for
certain nondeductible items.

(f) Represents $23,912,000 related to the Working Capital Adjustment due from
the Joint Venture. The estimated Working Capital Adjustment is based on
pro forma net working capital contributed to the Joint Venture by Thomas
in excess of the target net working capital, as defined in the Thomas
Capitalization Agreement. The target net working capital is intended to
represent the net working capital which should be contributed by Thomas in
proportion to the net working capital being contributed to the Joint
Venture by Genlyte. Also includes current deferred income tax assets of
$3,448,000 as the income tax attributes and liabilities generated by the
Joint Venture shall accrue directly to Genlyte and Thomas and be recorded
on their respective financial statements.

(g) Net adjustment to other assets consists of the following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Debt Equalization Note receivable from the Joint Venture (see
Note 2(h) on page F-32)........................................ $19,186
Deferred tax asset retained by Thomas........................... 459
Deferred loan costs associated with the Day-Brite Note retained
by Thomas...................................................... 290
Certain other assets retained by Thomas......................... 200
-------
Net increase to other assets.................................... $20,135
=======
</TABLE>

(h) Represents Thomas' investment in the Joint Venture, calculated as follows
(in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Thomas' historical investment in the contributed assets and
liabilities of Thomas Lighting............................... $122,745
Recognition of Working Capital Adjustment with Joint Venture
(see Note 2(f)).............................................. (23,912)
Current deferred tax asset retained by Thomas (see Note 2(f)). (3,448)
Net adjustment to other assets retained by Thomas (see Note
2(g))........................................................ (20,135)
Day-Brite Note retained by Thomas (see Note 2(k))............. 54,080
Net adjustment to other current liabilities retained by Thomas
(see Note 2(j)).............................................. 3,699
Long-term deferred tax liabilities retained by Thomas (see
Note 2(l))................................................... 5,670
Long-term Beaver Dam Liabilities retained by Thomas (see Note
2(m))........................................................ 733
--------
Thomas' investment in the Joint Venture....................... $139,432
========
</TABLE>

(i) Represents the current portion of the Day-Brite Note that will be retained
by Thomas.

(j) Net adjustment to other current liabilities consists of the following (in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Accrued interest on the Day-Brite Note retained by Thomas......... $ 837
Current Beaver Dam Liabilities retained by Thomas................. 225
Represents certain other liabilities retained by Thomas........... 202
Deferred tax liabilities retained by Thomas....................... 1,495
Income tax payable retained by Thomas............................. 940
------
Net adjustment to other current liabilities....................... $3,699
======
</TABLE>

(k) Represents the long-term portion of the Day-Brite Note retained by Thomas.

(l) Represents long-term deferred tax liabilities retained by Thomas.

(m) Represents long-term Beaver Dam Liabilities retained by Thomas.

(n) Represents Thomas' historical investment in the contributed assets and
liabilities of Thomas Lighting.

F-38
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

INTRODUCTION

The following pro forma consolidated financial statements of Genlyte Thomas
Group LLC (the "Joint Venture") (the "Unaudited Joint Venture Pro Forma
Consolidated Financial Statements"), include the unaudited pro forma
consolidated statements of income for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 and for
the year ended December 31, 1997 (the "Unaudited Joint Venture Pro Forma
Consolidated Statements of Income"), and the unaudited pro forma consolidated
balance sheet as of April 4, 1998 (the "Unaudited Joint Venture Pro Forma
Consolidated Balance Sheet").

The Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income are based on
the unaudited consolidated statement of income of Genlyte for the quarter
ended April 4, 1998, the unaudited combined statement of income of Thomas
Lighting for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, the audited consolidated
statement of income of Genlyte for the year ended December 31, 1997, and the
audited combined statement of income of Thomas Lighting for the year ended
December 31, 1997, and are adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as
though it had occurred as of January 1, 1997.

The Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet is based on the
unaudited consolidated balance sheet of Genlyte as of April 4, 1998 and the
unaudited combined balance sheet of Thomas Lighting as of March 31, 1998, and
is adjusted to give effect to the Transaction as if it had occurred on April
4, 1998.

The Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements reflect pro
forma adjustments to give effect to the transactions contemplated in the
Transaction Documents whereby (a) Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture
substantially all of its assets in exchange for a 68% interest in the Joint
Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of substantially all of its
liabilities and (b) Thomas will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially
all of its assets comprising Thomas Lighting in exchange for a 32% interest in
the Joint Venture and the Joint Venture's assumption of certain liabilities.
For accounting purposes, Genlyte's majority ownership of the Joint Venture
requires the assets and liabilities contributed by Thomas to the Joint Venture
to be valued at their fair value in the Joint Venture's consolidated financial
statements. Certain pro forma adjustments result from management's preliminary
determination of purchase accounting adjustments and are based upon available
information and certain assumptions that management considers reasonable under
the circumstances. Consequently, the amounts reflected in the Unaudited Joint
Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements are subject to change.

The Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements and the
accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with Genlyte's historical
consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto incorporated by
reference herein, and Thomas Lighting's historical combined financial
statements and notes thereto, appearing elsewhere in the Joint Proxy
Statement.

The Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements do not purport
to be indicative of what the Joint Venture's financial condition or results of
operations would have been had the Transaction in fact been consummated as of
the assumed dates and for the periods presented, nor are they indicative of
the results of operations or financial condition for any future period or
date. In addition, the Joint Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial
Statements do not reflect the Synergies expected to result from the
Transaction or the related Synergy Costs. As discussed elsewhere in this Joint
Proxy Statement, the Synergies are expected to be in excess of $30 million per
annum and are expected to be fully realized by the end of the year 2000 as a
result of cost savings, economies of scale and revenue enhancement
opportunities. It is anticipated that an aggregate of $10.5 million of costs
will be incurred by the Joint Venture during the period 1998 through 2000
related to achieving the Synergies. See "The Proposed Joint Venture--Reasons
for the Transaction."

F-39
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC
PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE QUARTER ENDED APRIL 4, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
PRO FORMA GENLYTE
HISTORICAL THOMAS TRANSACTION THOMAS
GENLYTE LIGHTING (A) ADJUSTMENTS GROUP LLC
---------- ------------ ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales...................... $130,124 $97,755 $ -- $227,879
Cost of Sales................ 85,648 67,676 200 (b) 153,524
-------- ------- ------- --------
Gross Profit................... 44,476 30,079 (200) 74,355
Selling & Administrative
Expenses.................... 32,851 26,677 135 (c) 59,463
(250)(d)
50 (b)
-------- ------- ------- --------
Operating Profit............... 11,625 3,402 (135) 14,892
Interest Expense, net........ 844 259 -- 1,103
Other Non-Operating Expenses. -- 52 -- 52
-------- ------- ------- --------
Income Before Income Taxes..... 10,781 3,091 (135) 13,737
Income Tax Provision......... 4,635 -- (4,635)(e) --
-------- ------- ------- --------
Net Income..................... $ 6,146 $ 3,091 $ 4,500 $ 13,737
======== ======= ======= ========
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES
EXPECTED TO RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Thomas Group LLC Pro Forma Consolidated
Financial Statements.

F-40
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENT OF INCOME

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
PRO FORMA GENLYTE
HISTORICAL THOMAS TRANSACTION THOMAS
GENLYTE LIGHTING(A) ADJUSTMENTS GROUP LLC
---------- ----------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Sales....................... $487,961 $390,638 $ -- $878,599
Cost of Sales................. 318,556 269,331 800 (b) 588,687
-------- -------- -------- --------
Gross Profit.................... 169,405 121,307 (800) 289,912
Selling & Administrative
Expenses..................... 131,784 103,451 541 (c) 234,976
(1,000)(d)
200 (b)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Operating Profit................ 37,621 17,856 (541) 54,936
Interest Expense, net......... 4,085 2,583 -- 6,668
Other Non-Operating Expenses.. -- (733) -- (733)
-------- -------- -------- --------
Income Before Income Taxes...... 33,536 16,006 (541) 49,001
Income Tax Provision.......... 14,423 -- (14,423)(e) --
-------- -------- -------- --------
Net Income...................... $ 19,113 $ 16,006 $ 13,882 $ 49,001
======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>

THESE PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DO NOT REFLECT THE SYNERGIES EXPECTED TO
RESULT FROM THE TRANSACTION OR THE RELATED SYNERGY COSTS.

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Thomas Group LLC Pro Forma Consolidated
Financial Statements.

F-41
<PAGE>

UNAUDITED GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS OF APRIL 4, 1998
(IN THOUSANDS)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
GENLYTE GENLYTE
---------------------------------- PRO FORMA THOMAS
CONTRIBUTION AS THOMAS TRANSACTION GROUP
HISTORICAL ADJUSTMENTS ADJUSTED LIGHTING(F) ADJUSTMENTS LLC
---------- ------------ -------- ----------- ----------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and Cash
Equivalents.......... $ 1,234 $ (1,234)(g) $ -- $ 1,201 $ -- $ 1,201
Accounts Receivable,
net.................. 81,233 -- 81,233 58,602 -- 139,835
Inventories........... 84,037 -- 84,037 53,571 6,488 (j) 144,096
Other Current Assets.. 20,972 (13,901)(h) 7,071 3,821 -- 10,892
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total Current
Assets............. 187,476 (15,135) 172,341 117,195 6,488 296,024
Plant and Equipment,
net.................... 59,091 -- 59,091 46,823 20,000 (j) 125,914
Goodwill................ 12,616 -- 12,616 48,129 (48,129)(j) 34,257
21,641 (j)
Other Assets............ 7,832 (6,200)(h) 1,632 8,467 -- 10,099
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total Assets........ $267,015 $(21,335) $245,680 $220,614 $ -- $466,294
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' INVESTMENT
Current Liabilities:
Accounts Payable...... $ 50,547 $ -- $ 50,547 $ 18,801 $ -- $ 69,348
Notes Payable......... -- -- -- 23,912 -- 23,912
Short-Term Borrowings. 250 -- 250 -- -- 250
Current Maturities of
Long-Term Debt....... 58 -- 58 71 -- 129
Accrued Expenses...... 39,520 (3,786)(h) 35,734 16,025 -- 51,759
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total Current
Liabilities........ 90,375 (3,786) 86,589 58,809 -- 145,398
Long-Term Debt.......... 40,771 -- 40,771 19,344 -- 60,115
Deferred Income Taxes... 6,831 (6,831)(h) -- -- -- --
Other Liabilities....... 18,663 -- 18,663 3,029 -- 21,692
Stockholders'
Investment............. 110,375 (10,718)(i) 99,657 139,432 -- 239,089
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total Liabilities
and Stockholders'
Investment......... $267,015 $(21,335) $245,680 $220,614 $ -- $466,294
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>

See Notes to Unaudited Genlyte Thomas Group LLC Pro Forma Consolidated
Financial Statements.

F-42
<PAGE>

NOTES TO UNAUDITED GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS

NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION

On April 28, 1998, Genlyte and Thomas entered into definitive agreements to
combine the lighting business of Thomas with the business of Genlyte through
the Joint Venture. Genlyte will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially
all of its assets in exchange for a 68% interest in the Joint Venture and the
Joint Venture's assumption of substantially all of its liabilities and Thomas
will contribute to the Joint Venture substantially all of it assets comprising
Thomas Lighting in exchange for a 32% interest in the Joint Venture and the
Joint Venture's assumption of certain liabilities. Genlyte and Thomas will
continue to exist as separate publicly traded companies.

Accounting Treatment

For accounting purposes, Genlyte's majority ownership of the Joint Venture
requires the assets and liabilities contributed by Thomas to the Joint Venture
to be valued at their fair value in the Joint Venture's consolidated financial
statements. Certain pro forma adjustments result from management's preliminary
determination of purchase accounting adjustments and are based upon available
information and certain assumptions that management considers reasonable under
the circumstances. Consequently, the amounts reflected in the Unaudited Joint
Venture Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Statements are subject to change.

NOTE 2: PRO FORMA ADJUSTMENTS

(a) Represents the Unaudited Thomas Lighting Pro Forma Statements of Income
as presented in the Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of
Income included elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

(b) Represents the incremental depreciation expense for the quarter ended
April 4, 1998 and the year ended December 31, 1997 of $200,000 and $800,000,
respectively, charged to cost of sales and $50,000 and $200,000, respectively,
charged to selling and administrative expense, using an assumed weighted
average useful remaining life of 20 years, related to the incremental fair
value step-up of certain fixed assets of Thomas Lighting (see Note 2 (j)). The
allocation of expense between cost of sales and selling and administrative
expense is based on Genlyte's historical depreciation mix.

(c) Represents incremental goodwill amortization of $135,000 and $541,000
for the quarter ended April 4, 1998 and the year ended December 31, 1997,
respectively, resulting from the excess of the fair market value over the
tangible book value of Thomas' Contributed Business (see Note 2 (j)). Such
excess will be amortized over 40 years, subject to further analysis subsequent
to the closing of the Transaction.

(d) Represents estimated costs to be charged to Genlyte by the Joint Venture
for certain shareholder-related services rendered by the Joint Venture on
behalf of Genlyte.

(e) Represents the elimination of the income tax provision included in
Genlyte's historical financial statements. The Joint Venture will be treated
as a partnership for federal income tax purposes and therefore, the income tax
attributes and liabilities generated by the Joint Venture shall accrue
directly to Genlyte and Thomas and be recorded in their respective financial
statements.

(f) Represents the Unaudited Thomas Lighting Pro Forma Balance Sheet as
presented in the Unaudited Genlyte Pro Forma Consolidated Balance Sheet
included elsewhere in this Joint Proxy Statement.

(g) Represents the elimination of cash and cash equivalents which will be
retained by Genlyte.

(h) Represents the elimination of accrued income taxes payable and deferred
income tax assets and liabilities which will be retained by Genlyte, as the
income tax attributes and liabilities generated by the Joint Venture will
accrue directly to Genlyte and Thomas and be recorded in their respective
financial statements.

F-43
<PAGE>

(i) The net adjustment to retained earnings consists of the net effect of
the adjustments described in Note 2(g) and Note 2(h).

(j) Represents the allocation of the excess of the fair market value over
tangible book value of Thomas' Contributed Business as follows (in thousands):

The cost basis of properties and other assets was adjusted to fair market
value based on management's preliminary estimates which are subject to change
based upon the results of valuations management intends to have performed.

F-44
<PAGE>

APPENDIX A

212-816-6000

LOGO

April 28, 1998

The Board of Directors
Thomas Industries Inc.
4360 Brownsboro Road
Louisville, Kentucky 40207

Members of the Board:

You have requested our opinion as to the fairness, from a financial point of
view, to Thomas Industries Inc. of the Thomas Allocation (as defined below)
set forth in the Capitalization Agreement dated April 28, 1998 (the "Thomas
Capitalization Agreement") by and among GT Lighting, LLC ("Newco") and Thomas
Industries Inc. and certain affiliates thereof (collectively, "Thomas"). As
more fully described in the Thomas Capitalization Agreement, Thomas will
contribute to Newco, and Newco will assume certain liabilities relating to,
substantially all of the assets, properties and capital stock constituting or
associated with the lighting products division of Thomas (the "Thomas Lighting
Business" and, such asset contribution, the "Thomas Contribution") in exchange
for a 32% (the "Thomas Allocation") membership interest in Newco (the "Thomas
Membership Interest"). As more fully described in the Capitalization Agreement
dated April 28, 1998 (the "Genlyte Capitalization Agreement" and, together
with the Thomas Capitalization Agreement, the "Capitalization Agreements") by
and between Newco and The Genlyte Group Incorporated ("Genlyte"), Genlyte will
contribute to Newco, and Newco will assume certain liabilities relating to,
substantially all of the assets and properties of Genlyte (the "Genlyte
Business" and, together with the Thomas Lighting Business, the "Contributed
Businesses") in exchange for a 68% membership interest in Newco (such
membership interest, together with the Thomas Membership Interest, being
collectively referred to herein as the "Membership Interests" and, such asset
contribution, together with the Thomas Contribution, being collectively
referred to herein as the "Transaction").

In arriving at our opinion, we reviewed the Capitalization Agreements and
certain related documents, and held discussions with certain senior officers,
directors and other representatives and advisors of Thomas and certain senior
officers and other representatives and advisors of Genlyte concerning the
operations and prospects of the Contributed Businesses. We examined certain
available business and financial information relating to the Contributed
Businesses as well as certain financial forecasts and other information and
data for the Contributed Businesses which were provided to or otherwise
discussed with us by the respective managements of Thomas and Genlyte,
including information relating to certain strategic implications and
operational benefits anticipated to result from the Transaction. We reviewed
the financial terms of the Transaction as set forth in the Capitalization
Agreements and certain related documents in relation to, among other things,
the historical and projected earnings and other operating data of the
Contributed Businesses and the financial condition of the Contributed
Businesses. We analyzed certain financial, stock market and other publicly
available information relating to the businesses of other companies whose
operations we considered relevant in evaluating those of the Contributed
Businesses. We also evaluated the potential pro forma financial impact of the
Transaction on Thomas. In addition to the foregoing, we conducted such other
analyses and examinations and considered such other financial, economic and
market criteria as we deemed appropriate in arriving at our opinion.

In rendering our opinion, we have assumed and relied, without independent
verification, upon the accuracy and completeness of all financial and other
information and data publicly available or furnished to or otherwise reviewed
by or discussed with us. With respect to financial forecasts and other
information and data provided to or otherwise reviewed by or discussed with
us, we have been advised by the managements of Thomas and Genlyte that such
forecasts and other information and data were reasonably prepared on bases
reflecting the best

A-1

SMITH BARNEY INC. 388 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10013
<PAGE>

The Board of Directors
Thomas Industries Inc.
April 28, 1998
Page 2

currently available estimates and judgments of the respective managements of
Thomas and Genlyte as to the future financial performance of the Contributed
Businesses and the strategic implications and operational benefits (including
the amount, timing and achievability thereof) anticipated to result from the
Transaction. We have assumed, with the consent of the Board of Directors of
Thomas, that the Transaction will be treated as a tax-free exchange for
federal income tax purposes. Our opinion, as set forth herein, relates to the
relative values of the Contributed Businesses. We express no opinion as to
what the value of the Membership Interests will be when issued pursuant to the
Transaction or the price at which the Membership Interests will be
transferable subsequent to the Transaction. We have not made or been provided
with an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets or liabilities
(contingent or otherwise) of the Contributed Businesses nor have we made any
physical inspection of the properties or assets of the Contributed Businesses.
We have been advised by representatives of Thomas and Genlyte that Newco will
not assume or otherwise be responsible for any Excluded Liabilities (as
defined in the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement) of Genlyte and therefore have
assumed, with your consent, that such Excluded Liabilities will not have a
material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of
Newco. In connection with our engagement, we were not requested to, and we did
not, solicit third party indications of interest in all or a part of the
Thomas Lighting Business. We were not requested to consider, and our opinion
does not address, the relative merits of the Transaction as compared to any
alternative business strategies that might exist for Thomas or the effect of
any other transaction in which Thomas might engage. Our opinion is necessarily
based upon information available to us, and financial, stock market and other
conditions and circumstances existing and disclosed to us, as of the date
hereof.

Salomon Brothers Inc and Smith Barney Inc. (collectively doing business as
Salomon Smith Barney) have acted as financial advisors to Thomas in connection
with the Transaction and will receive a fee for such services, a significant
portion of which is contingent upon the consummation of the Transaction. In
the ordinary course of our business, we and our affiliates may actively trade
or hold the securities of Thomas and Genlyte for our own account or for the
account of our customers and, accordingly, may at any time hold a long or
short position in such securities. Salomon Smith Barney has in the past
provided investment banking services to Thomas unrelated to the proposed
Transaction, for which services Salomon Smith Barney has received
compensation. In addition, we and our affiliates (including Travelers Group
Inc. and its affiliates) may maintain relationships with Thomas, Genlyte and
their respective affiliates.

Our advisory services and the opinion expressed herein are provided for the
information of the Board of Directors of Thomas in its evaluation of the
proposed Transaction, and our opinion is not intended to be and does not
constitute a recommendation to any stockholder as to how such stockholder
should vote on the proposed Transaction. Our opinion may not be published or
otherwise used or referred to, nor shall any public reference to Salomon Smith
Barney be made, without our prior written consent.

Based upon and subject to the foregoing, our experience as investment bankers,
our work as described above and other factors we deemed relevant, we are of
the opinion that, as of the date hereof, the Thomas Allocation is fair, from a
financial point of view, to Thomas.

Very truly yours,

/s/ SALOMON SMITH BARNEY

A-2
<PAGE>

APPENDIX B

LOGO

Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation
277 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10172 . (212) 892-3000

April 28, 1998

Board of Directors
The Genlyte Group Incorporated
2345 Vauxhall Road
Union, New Jersey 07083-1948

Dear Sirs:

You have requested our opinion as to the fairness from a financial point of
view to Genlyte Group Incorporated ("Genlyte" or the "Company") of the
consideration to be received by the Company pursuant to the terms of the
Capitalization Agreement, dated as of April 25, 1998 (the "Genlyte
Capitalization Agreement"), between GT Lighting, LLC ("GT Lighting") and the
Company, pursuant to which substantially all of Genlyte's assets and
liabilities other than certain contingent liabilities shall be contributed to
GT Lighting. Concurrently with such contribution, Thomas Industries Inc.
("Thomas") will contribute substantially all of the assets and liabilities
generally related to its consumer, commercial, industrial and outdoor lighting
business (the "Thomas Lighting Business") to GT Lighting pursuant to the terms
of the Capitalization Agreement, dated as of April 25, 1998 (the "Thomas
Capitalization Agreement") between GT Lighting and Thomas.

Pursuant to the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement, Genlyte will receive a 68%
ownership interest in GT Lighting and pursuant to the Thomas Capitalization
Agreement, Thomas will receive a 32% ownership interest in GT Lighting.

In arriving at our opinion, we have reviewed drafts dated April 25, 1998 of
the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement, the Thomas Capitalization Agreement, the
Master Transaction Agreement (the "Master Agreement") by and between Thomas
and the Company and the Limited Liability Company Agreement by and among GT
Lighting, Thomas and the Company. We also have reviewed financial and other
information that was publicly available or furnished to us by the Company and
Thomas, including information provided during discussions with their
respective managements. Included in the information provided during
discussions with the respective managements were certain financial projections
of the Company prepared by management of the Company for the period beginning
January 1, 1998 and ending December 31, 2000 and certain financial projections
of the Thomas Lighting Business prepared by management of Thomas for the
period beginning January 1, 1998 and ending December 31, 2000. In addition, we
have conducted such other financial studies, analyses and investigations as we
deemed appropriate for purposes of this opinion.

In rendering our opinion, we have relied upon and assumed the accuracy and
completeness of all of the financial and other information that was available
to us from public sources, that was provided to us by the Company and Thomas
or their respective representatives or that was otherwise reviewed by us. In
particular, we have relied upon estimates of the managements of the Company
and Thomas as to the amount and timing of certain operating synergies
achievable as a result of the creation of GT Lighting and our discussion of
such synergies and the timing thereof with the managements of Genlyte and
Thomas. With respect to the financial projections supplied to us, we have
assumed that they have been reasonably prepared on the basis reflecting the
best currently available estimates and judgments of the respective managements
of the Company and Thomas as to the future operating and financial performance
of the Company and the Thomas Lighting Business. We have not assumed any
responsibility for making an independent evaluation of the Company's assets or
liabilities or the Thomas Lighting Business assets or liabilities or for
making any independent verification of any of the information reviewed by us.
We have relied as to certain legal matters, including that the transaction
contemplated by the Master Agreement will be tax-free to Genlyte, Thomas and
GT Lighting, on advice of counsel to the Company.

B-1
<PAGE>

Our opinion is necessarily based on economic, market, financial and other
conditions as they exist on, and on the information made available to us as
of, the date of this letter. It should be understood that, although subsequent
developments may affect this opinion, we do not have any obligation to update,
revise or reaffirm this opinion. We are expressing no opinion herein as to the
price at which the Company's stock will trade at any time. Our opinion is
being provided for the information of the Company's Board of Directors in
their evaluation of the transactions contemplated by the Master Agreement.
However, our opinion does not address the relative merits of the transaction
contemplated by the Master Agreement, and the other business strategies being
considered by the Company's Board of Directors, nor does it address the
Board's decision to proceed with the transactions contemplated by the Master
Agreement. Our opinion also does not constitute a recommendation to any member
of the Board of Directors or any stockholder as to how such member or
stockholder should vote on the proposed transaction.

Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette Securities Corporation, as part of its
investment banking services, is regularly engaged in the valuation of
businesses and securities in connection with mergers, acquisitions,
underwritings, sales and distributions of listed and unlisted securities,
private placements and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes.

Based upon the foregoing and such other factors as we deem relevant, we are
of the opinion that the consideration to be received by the Company pursuant
to the Genlyte Capitalization Agreement is fair to the Company from a
financial point of view.

Very truly yours,

Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
Securities Corporation

/s/ Herald L. Ritch
By: _________________________________
Herald L. Ritch
Managing Director

B-2
<PAGE>

PROXY

THOMAS INDUSTRIES INC.
4360 BROWNSBORO ROAD, SUITE 300, LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY 40207

SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The undersigned hereby appoints Timothy C. Brown and Phillip J. Stuecker, or
either of them, with full power of substitution, to represent and vote all of
the shares of Thomas standing in the undersigned's name at the Special Meeting
of Shareholders of Thomas to be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 320 West
Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky, on August 27, 1998, at 10:00 a.m. local
time, and at any adjournment or postponement thereof (the "Meeting"). The
undersigned hereby revokes any and all proxies heretofore given with respect to
such Meeting.

THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS SPECIFIED BELOW. IF NO CHOICE IS SPECIFIED, THE
PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR APPROVAL OF THE TRANSFER OF SUBSTANTIALLY ALL OF THE
ASSETS OF THE LIGHTING BUSINESS OF THOMAS TO THE JOINT VENTURE COMBINING THE
LIGHTING BUSINESS OF THOMAS WITH THE BUSINESS OF THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED
(THE "TRANSACTION"). THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF
THE TRANSACTION.
1. Proposal to approve the transfer of substantially all of the assets of the
lighting business of Thomas to the joint venture combining the lighting
business of Thomas with the business of The Genlyte Group Incorporated.

[_] For[_] Against[_] Abstain

2. In their discretion on any other matter that may properly come before the
Meeting or any adjournment thereof.

Dated: , 1998
---------------------------------
Signature
---------------------------------
Signature

(Please sign exactly as your
name appears. When signing as an
executor, administrator,
guardian, trustee, custodian,
personal representative or
attorney, please give your title
as such. If signer is a
corporation, please sign the
full corporate name and then an
authorized officer should sign
his name and print his name and
title below his signature. If
the shares are held in the name
of more than one person, each
such person should sign the
proxy.

PLEASE DATE, SIGN AND RETURN
THIS PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED
RETURN ENVELOPE.
<PAGE>

THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED

PROXY

SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS, AUGUST 27, 1998

SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED

The undersigned hereby authorizes and appoints RICHARD J. BINDELGLASS and
DONNA R. RATLIFF and each of them, the proxies of the undersigned, with power
of substitution in each, to vote all shares of Common Stock, par value $.01 per
share, of The Genlyte Group Incorporated held of record on June 30, 1998 by the
undersigned at the Special Meeting of Shareholders to be held at the offices of
The Bank of New York, 1 Wall Street, 47th Floor, New York, New York 10286 on
August 27, 1998 at 10:00 a.m. local time, and at any adjournment thereof, on
all maters that may properly come before such meeting.

THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED
HEREIN BY THE UNDERSIGNED SHAREHOLDER. IF NO CONTRARY SPECIFICATION IS
INDICATED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR APPROVAL OF
THE TRANSFER OF SUBSTANTIALLY ALL OF THE ASSETS OF GENLYTE TO THE JOINT VENTURE
COMBINING THE BUSINESS OF GENLYTE WITH THE LIGHTING BUSINESS OF THOMAS (THE
"TRANSACTION").

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR APPROVAL OF THE TRANSACTION.
1. Proposal to approve the transfer of substantially all of the assets of
Genlyte to the joint venture combining the business of Genlyte with the
lighting business of Thomas Industries Inc.

[_] For[_] Against[_] Abstain

2. In their discretion, such other business as may properly come before the
meeting.

Dated: , 1998
---------------------------------
Signature
---------------------------------
Signature

(Please sign exactly as your
name appears. When signing as an
executor, administrator,
guardian, trustee or attorney,
please give your title as such.
If signer is a corporation,
please sign the full corporate
name and then an authorized
officer should sign his name and
print his name and title below
his signature. If the shares are
held in a joint name, all joint
owners should sign.)

PLEASE DATE, SIGN AND RETURN
THIS PROXY IN THE ENCLOSED
RETURN ENVELOPE.
<PAGE>

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

TO THE GENLYTE GROUP INCORPORATED:

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of (a)
our report dated January 21, 1998 on the consolidated financial statements
included in The Genlyte Group Incorporated's ("Genlyte's") Annual Report to
Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 1997 and (b) our reports dated
January 21, 1998 on the consolidated financial statements and schedule included
and incorporated by reference into Genlyte's Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1997 into the Joint Proxy Statement.

/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
New York, New York
July 17, 1998
<PAGE>

Ernst & Young LLP []Suite 2100 []Phone: 502 585-1400
400 West Madison Street Fax: 502 584-4221
Louisville, Kentucky 40202

Consent of Independent Auditors

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the Joint
Proxy Statement and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report
dated February 11, 1998, with respect to the consolidated financial statements
and schedule of Thomas Industries Inc. and subsidiaries included in its Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission and to the use of our report dated May 8,
1998, with respect to the combined financial statements of Thomas Industries
Inc. Lighting Group at December 31, 1997 and 1996, and for each of the two years
in the period ended December 31, 1997, included in the Joint Proxy Statement.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Louisville, Kentucky
July 15, 1998

Ernst & Young LLP is a member of Ernst & Young International, Ltd.

<PAGE>

Consent Of Independent Auditors

The Board of Directors
Thomas Industries Inc.:

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the Joint
Proxy Statement and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report
dated February 7, 1996, with respect to the consolidated statements of income,
shareholders' equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 1995 and the
related schedule of Thomas Industries Inc. and subsidiaries included in its
Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission and to the use of our report dated February
7, 1996, with respect to the combined statements of operations, equity, and cash
flows of Thomas Industries Inc. Lighting Group for the year ended December 31,
1995, included in the Joint Proxy Statement.

/s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP

Louisville, Kentucky
July 16, 1998