ELLISON EXPANDS GLOBAL PRESENCE WITH OPENING OF EUROPEAN HEADQUARTERS IN IRELAND


CLONAKILTY, CORK, Ireland (May 9, 2005) - Ellison, the leading manufacturer of hand operated die-cutting equipment, is proud to announce the grand opening of its new European Headquarters in Ireland. The opening was marked by a ceremony at the facilities in Clonakilty, Ireland on May 9, 2005.

Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, joined Ellison’s President, Kent E. Chesley, at the ceremony. In Martin’s keynote speech, he recognized Ellison as a “dominant player in the industry.”

The expansion is part of Ellison’s global strategy to develop its European markets. The new strategy provides Ellison with the capabilities to operate directly in areas such as the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and France where Ellison has long had a presence only through third-party sales.

“With facilities already in China and Mexico, we at Ellison are excited by each step which continues to expand our global presence,” said Chesley. “Our new European headquarters is a great opportunity for us to further develop our foothold within the international craft and education markets.”

The European facility includes customer support, sales, marketing, administration and finance. It will subsequently expand to include other functions such as management of the supply chain and original research and development of additional products.

The headquarters will also support 34 high quality jobs for experienced professionals and is expected to provide an important economic contribution to the Clonakilty area.


About Ellison Corporate
Since 1977, Ellison has been the leader in die-cutting innovation and product development. Ellison manufacturers and distributes the Prestige™ line of professional die-cutting machines and over 8,000 dies. Ellison is also the manufacturer, distributor and retailer of Sizzix® consumer die-cutting equipment and ancillary products. Ellison empowers people to express their personal and professional creativity using its innovative products and is committed to continuing this tradition for generations to come. More information can be found at http://corp.ellison.com.