CHARLOTTE, NC – March 21, 2012 – SATO, a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and a leader in barcode printing, labeling, and EPC/RFID solutions, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Achernar of Argentina, a privately held corporation based in Buenos Aires, Argentina and one of the region’s most renowned providers of adhesive labeling solutions founded in 1971.

    By its industry diversification and abilities to quickly respond to changes in market demands, Achernar provides specialty labels for the food, fruit, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, electronic, lubricant, and postal service industries. As an industry leading supplier to the region’s most renowned brands in its market, Achernar manufactures a wide range of labels including prime, promotional, variable information, security, and high durability label solutions.

    “The acquisition of Achernar further illustrates our ongoing commitment to the South Cone region of South America with best in breed for labeling and identification solutions,” said Bob Linse, president of SATO America. “Our acquisition of NODOS in 2010 and now Achernar strengthens our business model of DCS and Labeling in the region. We are extremely pleased with this acquisition and welcome Achernar to the SATO team.”

    “Achernar will assuredly continue to thrive after its acquisition by SATO as both corporations share a cultural and strategic fit. With this action we heighten our abilities and growth opportunities across the region, and by harnessing the passion and dedication of our employees, we build upon the trust and confidence our customers have entrusted to us,” said Maria Olcese, General Manager of Achernar.

    Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

    About SATO
    SATO is a pioneer and leading global provider of integrated Automatic Identification and Data Collection solutions that leverage barcode and RFID technologies. SATO manufactures innovative, reliable auto-identification systems and offers complete solutions to businesses by integrating hardware, software, media supplies and maintenance services. Customers rely on SATO for accuracy, labor and resource savings helping to preserve the environment.

    Founded in 1940, SATO is publicly listed on the first section of Tokyo Stock Exchange in Japan. It has sales and support offices in over 20 countries and is represented globally through a world-class network of partners. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011, it reported revenues of JPY 78,368 million (US$ 914 million). More information about SATO can be found at www.sato.co.jp/english.

    * Conversion is based on an average exchange rate of 1 US Dollar = 85.73 Japanese Yen.

    For more information about SATO group companies, visit www.satoworldwide.com

    For more information about SATO America, visit www.satoamerica.com

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