Lexmark Electronics opens manufacturing site in the Czech Republic; Contract manufacturer brings core competency closer to European customers

Business Wire, May 3, 1999

LEXINGTON, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 3, 1999--

Lexmark Electronics, a business unit of Lexmark International (NYSE:LXK), headquartered in Lexington, Ky., is now manufacturing printed circuit boards in the Czech Republic at its new facility in Brno, the country's second largest city. Located in the Czech Technology Park adjacent to Brno's Technical University the VUT, Lexmark Electronics utilizes the latest state-of-the-art technologies to produce electronic circuit assemblies. Already in production, an open house is planned for May 26 to celebrate the plant's opening.

Lexmark Electronics is a contract electronics manufacturer focusing on the high technology computer peripherals and networking industries. It offers design, manufacturing and distribution to a global customer base and is ranked among the 30 largest contract manufacturers in the world. With well over a decade of electronic manufacturing services (EMS) experience with external customers, Lexmark Electronics has been a key factor in the success of Lexmark's high quality, cost competitive printer business.

"Our new electronics facility in Brno will focus on serving our European markets with even greater efficiency by improving responsiveness and better supporting our customers' operations," stated Ben M. Streepey, vice president and general manager of Lexmark Electronics. "Brno is an excellent choice because it is centrally located in Europe and offers access to a work force with strong technical skills."

Commenting on the significance of this announcement, Streepey added, "As part of our globalization strategy, the Brno site deploys our core strengths where they are needed. With more than 50% of the company's revenue coming from outside the U.S., this electronics production facility will be key to reaching our valued European customers."

According to Phil Zarrow, a highly respected industry columnist and consultant, "Lexmark Electronics takes a refreshing approach to contract manufacturing that is innovative yet firmly based in a legacy of solid experience and competence. The cellular team-based manufacturing scheme is unique among contract assemblers and it is quite effective. Low cycle times across a broad range of board technologies and very high yields translate into high-efficiency manufacturing."

Lexmark Electronics is forming long-term partnerships with customers in the fast growing EMS industry. For more information, in Europe call 420 5 4119 2160 or in the US and Canada 800-993-3228, or visit the Lexmark Electronics home page at www.lexmark.com/cms.> Lexmark International, Inc. is a global developer, manufacturer and supplier of printing solutions and products, including laser, inkjet and dot matrix printers and associated consumable supplies for the office and home markets. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lexmark International Group, Inc. (NYSE:LXK). Lexmark is on the internet at www.lexmark.com.

Lexmark is a trademark of Lexmark International, Inc., registered in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.