Perceptron® Announces Partnership with Bosch Power Tools
PLYMOUTH, MI, October 12, 2010 - Perceptron, Inc. (NASDAQ: PRCP), the global leader in non-contact measurement and inspection solutions, today announced Bosch Power Tools as its strategic partner for the Construction and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) markets. Perceptron previously announced it had signed a new partner in a press release dated April 6, 2010 but for confidentiality reasons was unable to indentify Bosch at that time.
Combining Perceptron's expertise in optical devices with Bosch's knowledge of the power tool market and expertise in battery powered technology has led to the development of a complete optical scope solution. Perceptron transformed the optical scope market when it launched its first optical inspection device providing leading edge optical design in an innovative hand-held solution. Both Perceptron and Bosch were founded on the belief that innovation and quality are the lifeblood of any company, a philosophy clearly evident in this strategic partnership.
Richard Price, Vice President of Perceptron's Commercial Products Business Unit, states, "We are excited to jointly announce our strategic partnership with Bosch. Bosch's global strength in the power tool market, coupled with Perceptron's visualization technology, makes us a formidable team."
"We are committed to providing the best possible solution to end users in everything we do," says Randall Coe, Vice President of Marketing for Bosch. "We were interested to work with Perceptron because it was an opportunity to partner with another market leader to bring forward products that excel in clarity, quality and versatility."
Bosch was the first to launch the 12V Max line of tools that has revolutionized the cordless tool market and has already launched its second generation of core products. Bosch has also led in the quality of its 18V lithium ion technology by introducing such key features as Flexible Power System (FPS), Electronic Cell Protection (ECP), and special Heat Conductive Housings (HCH) that ensure maximum performance and reliability for the user.
The products, details of which will be announced as they are launched into their various sales channels later in the calendar year, are protected by a number of patents. The initial product offerings will be augmented by other exciting new products and accessories incorporating new features, driven by cooperative research and capabilities that promise to keep the product line fresh and innovative for years to come.
Price added, "This strategic alliance, synthesizing leading edge technologies from both organizations, will allow us to provide the Construction and DIY markets with innovative quality solutions that ultimately make work easier for the professional and DIY enthusiast alike."
About Perceptron®
Perceptron develops, produces, and sells non-contact measurement and inspection solutions for industrial and commercial applications. The products from the Company's Industrial Business Unit (IBU) provide solutions for manufacturing process control as well as sensor and software technologies for non-contact measurement and inspection applications. Automotive and manufacturing companies throughout the world rely on Perceptron's metrology solutions to help them manage their complex manufacturing processes to improve quality, shorten product launch times and reduce overall manufacturing costs. IBU also offers Value Added Services such as training and customer support services. Perceptron's Commercial Products Business Unit (CBU) develops and manufactures a variety of handheld visual inspection devices and add-on accessories for professional trades-people that are sold to and marketed through strategic partners. Headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, Perceptron has approximately 230 employees worldwide, with operations in the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Brazil, Japan, Singapore, China and India. For more information about Perceptron, please visit www.perceptron.com.
About Bosch Power Tools
Bosch Power Tools and Accessories is one of the divisions within the $1 billion, 4,000 employee strong Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, which is the North American branch of the largest power tool and accessory manufacturer in the world, Robert Bosch GmbH. Bosch provides a complete line of corded and cordless power tools and accessories engineered to survive any jobsite and allow professionals to take control of their work. For more information, call toll free 877-BOSCH-99 (877-267-2499) or visit www.boschtools.com.
About Bosch Group
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 275,000 associates generated sales of $53 billion (38.2 billion euros) in fiscal 2009. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 300 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for growth. Each year, Bosch spends more than $5 billion (3.5 billion euros) for research and development, and applies for some 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.
In the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial drives and control technology, power tools, security and communication systems, packaging technology, thermotechnology, household appliances, solar energy and healthcare products. Having established a regional presence in 1906, Bosch employs over 20,000 associates in more than 70 locations, with reported sales of $7.3 billion in fiscal 2009. For more information, visit www.boschusa.com.
