ELLISON BOLSTERS ITS EUROPEAN PRESENCE

Industry Professionals Barry Short and Ian Ward Help Solidify Ireland Office

CLONAKILTY, CORK, Ireland (September 2, 2005) - Ellison, the world’s leading manufacturer of hand operated die-cutting equipment, recently negotiated a sales and distribution agreement to engage two experienced professionals in the development of Ellison’s European business.  Contracted to represent Ellison Europe exclusively, Barry Short serves as Customer Relations Manager, and Ian Ward assumes the role of Business Development Manager. Short will focus on the trade channel and Ward will head up sales support for Ellison’s business in the UK and Northern Europe.

 “Barry and Ian will both play important roles in Ellison’s continuing commitment to client service as we continue to expand within the European market,” said Lisa Corcoran, CEO of Ellison. “Ellison is excited to welcome Barry and Ian into the Ellison family.”

As Customer Relations Manager, Short will represent Ellison at industry and consumer trade shows where he will manage contacts and effectively showcase products through new and existing channels. 

Short’s previous experience includes managing The Scrapbook House Trade Division supplying Craft products to retail business. While there, he developed the department and helped orchestrate the company to an explosive 95 percent increase in customers in a span of less than two years.

As the new Business Development Manager, Ward will work with the Director of the Ireland office to implement a sales representative support system, as well as marketing plans and target sales for the European Markets with emphasis in the United Kingdom.

Ward’s experience includes Oasis Arts & Crafts where he was responsible for managing accounts such as Hobby Craft, Findel Education, WH Smith, Toys R Us, Woolworths, TK Maxx and The Works.

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 nearly 10,000 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.