Press Releases Latest Update: 3/11/04

To quickly return to the headlines, just click on one of the paintbrushes to the right.

Encore Adds Twin Line Extrusion Capabilities March 11, 2004 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Industries, Inc., an injection molder and thermoformer of plastic paint sundry items has entered the extrusion market with a newly formed operating division called Extrusion Specialties. The addition of extrusion technology will greatly expand the Company’s leading position as a diversified plastics manufacturer. This strategic move will enable Encore to offer its customers the benefit of improved quality and consistency of material in light of an increasingly volatile supply chain. The first extrusion line, which will be in production by the end of the month, will provide the flexibility to extrude various materials, including PET and HDPE. “Thermoformed paint trays and liners form the core of our customers’ paint sundry products. As with other commodities, their cost and quality impact the perceived value of our entire line of sundry products,” said D. Craig Rathbun, Encore’s President. “By vertically integrating the production of our PET and HDPE roll stock, the primary raw material used in our trays and liners, we are assured of receiving consistent material, thus providing our customer base access to the country’s highest quality finished trays and liners. In addition to the increased quality and expanded product listings that will become available, the new division will also enable Encore to grow its participation in the all-important OEM segment within the paint sundry market. “During the past several years, we had begun to feel the pressure of many foreign thermoformed sundry items entering the U.S. market. These imported items were priced competitively, but the quality was not very consistent. Instead of waiting for our foreign competitors to improve their quality we decided to take action” said Rathbun. “Our investment into extrusion, will now enable us to recapture any lost business and to begin offering our OEM customers assured and consistent quality, reliable deliveries at competitive prices. Our goal is to offer our customers product solutions that can help them make inroads into an ever more competitive marketplace” In terms of the company’s overall growth plans, Timothy J. Rathbun, Encore’s CEO, stated that “the introduction of our Extrusion Specialties division, located in Cambridge, Ohio is simply the next logical step in our previously announced capital expansion projects. In addition to extrusion, we have recently installed several new state of the art thermoforming lines for our Midstate Plastics operation. Additional plans to expand our injection molding capacity are now underway and will be completed later this year. We will be entering additional markets upon completion of this step in our expansion project.” Supporting Encore: The company has received approval for up to $5.5 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds for the project. The bonds will finance part of the costs of acquiring and renovating the manufacturing facility and for the acquisition of additional machinery and equipment. The project is expected to result in the addition of 90 employees over the next three years. Rathbun added, “our success is the result of much hard work, but it has been made possible in large part from a business environment created by the Bush and Taft administrations’ tax and economic development policies. We have no misconception that we could accomplish this without the support of State and Federal policies that provide support for our risk ventures. As a result of the Bush jobs and growth plan, including acceleration of the 2001 tax cuts, we have seen a significant increase in demand for our products and will be able to reinvest even more as one result of the increase in the expensing limits from $25,000 to $100,000 and the 50 percent bonus depreciation that further reduces the net cost of our investment. As a result we intend to increase our investment, grow our business and create new jobs.” ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of caulking guns, paint applicators and paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Announces Addition of American Express Card Sales May 22, 2003 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, one of the fastest growing paint, hardware and DIY manufacturers in the United States has teamed up with American Express to accept the American Express cards on its rapidly expanding sundries network. Now all American Express cardholders will be able to use their credit cards to purchase products from Encore. Encore also accepts cards issued by MasterCard and Visa across the country. "The addition of American Express now opens up our rapidly growing and well established credit card program to credit cards issued by American Express" said Jodi D. Conley, Vice President of Administration of Encore. "We are delighted that American Express is joining the Encore credit card acceptance program to provide its cardholders the convenience and benefits of access to Encore's complete catalog of products. We look forward to offering a wide range of quality payment products to our customers." she added. ### Established in 1987, Encore Plastics is a market leader in the distribution of caulking guns, paint applicators and paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Announces Addition of Sales Manager March 10, 2003 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, an injection molder of plastic paint sundries, today announced the addition of a product manager to its sales team, aimed at taking the Company to the next level of growth and profitability. Company steps up the pace of caulking gun market development: * John M. Muir has been appointed as a Sales Manager of the Company, reporting directly to the National Sales Manager. He will be responsible for day-to-day marketing activities and the Durango brand caulking gun growth strategy. Mr. Muir, formerly a member of the management team at Newborn Brothers Company, Inc., brings a track record of growing a successful, profitable and expansive caulking gun business and is tasked with implementing Encore’s strategy for immediate growth of its Durango brand of caulking guns. "This is a significant addition that we expect will have a very positive effect on our sales growth," said D. Craig Rathbun, Encore’s President. "By making an addition of this magnitude, we are sending a clear signal that Encore is moving into a new era of strategic growth and improvement. The market opportunity before us is large and growing, and we believe that the addition of Mr. Muir to oversee the introduction of our Durango caulking guns and Pro-Paintr kits and accessories and Encore Marine Paint Applicators will enable us to exploit it." ### Established in 1987, Encore Plastics is a market leader in the distribution of caulking guns, paint applicators and paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Introduces Durango brand Caulking Guns March 4, 2003 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Paint Sundries, a national leader in the manufacture and sale of paint sundries, today announced the addition of a full line of Durango caulking guns, including Professional, DIY and EconoLine units. They are designed for use by a broad range of users from professional to the first timer. The new guns are available in both 9" (1/10 Gallon) and 13" (1 Quart) sizes and in both parallel frame and cradle frame styles. Features of many units include Drip Control technology, built in spout cutters and seal punches, ladder hooks, wrist straps, finger gaurds and thumb releases. Adding to breadth of line with caulking gun market development: "The addition of this quality line of caulking guns will be highlighted by an aggressive and innovative marketing program designed to aid our dealers' sales efforts with colorful packaging and POD information," said D. Craig Rathbun, Encore’s President. "The introduction of Durango brand caulking guns furthers our strategy of offering our customers the broadest line of high quality products available anywhere in the country. The willingness to commit the capital necessary to present our customer base with expanding product options at improved margins continues to set Encore apart from its competition and provides Encore customers a competitive advantage in an increasingly competitive market." Rob Lamoreaux stated "after many years in the caulking gun market, I am convinced that our Durango line of guns provides our customers with the opportunity to offer quality products with unmatched marketing support at margins previously unavailable and I am looking forward to demonstrating this as we move forward with the program." Durango, "The New Guns in Town," are available for immediate shipment nationwide. Contact Encore for details. ### Established in 1987, Encore Plastics is a market leader in the distribution of caulking guns, paint applicators and paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Introduces Encore Marine brand Paint Brushes and Applicators February 4, 2003 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Paint Sundries, a national leader in the manufacture and sale of paint sundries, today announced the addition of a high quality line of Encore Marine paint brushes, roller frames and covers. Combined with its unique line of paint accessories focused on the marine user, Encore Marine now offers the mariner everything from Multi-Measure containers with printed graduations for mixing epoxies to Touch n' Trim trays for use with paints and varnishes. Adding to breadth of line with Encore Marine Paint Applicators: "This is a natural addition that enables us to further solidify our position as the premier supplier of paint sundries to the marine market," said D. Craig Rathbun, Encore’s President. "The addition of a line of paint applicators specifically designed to accommodate the marine user further illustrates our commitment to this important segment of our customer base. Our marine customers have sought a product offering targeted at the boater and today we are pleased to say that we have heard the request and have responded with a top quality product with targeted marketing not available from any other source." ### Established in 1987, Encore Plastics is a market leader in the distribution of caulking guns, paint applicators and paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Acquires Manufacturing Facility October 7, 2002 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, an injection molder of plastic products, today announced the acquisition of a 192,000 square foot manufacturing facility, located on a thirty-two acre campus setting in Cambridge, Ohio. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. The facility, formerly occupied by AMETEK, Inc. will serve as Encore’s base of operations for the manufacturing, printing and distribution of its paint sundry operation. The Company expects the facility to be in operation in late 2002. The Company will continue to maintain its corporate offices in Bellevue, Ohio and additional manufacturing facilities in Byesville, Ohio and Remer, Minnesota. D. Craig Rathbun, President, commented that, “the acquisition of this facility represents another significant milestone in the development program for our paint sundry line of products. Very simply, we ran out of space at our present facilities. Our sales and staff have doubled over the past 24 months. Following an extensive search throughout Minnesota, Ohio and western Pennsylvania, we selected the Cambridge site because of its proximity to our primary manufacturing facility in Byesville, Ohio, its accessibility to major transportation arteries, and the availability of skilled labor in the area.” Timothy J. Rathbun, CEO added, “The facility is ideal for our needs. In the wake of our four acquisitions since 1998 our operations were in desperate need of substantial space. This facility provides much needed room for the continuing expansion of our manufacturing and distribution capabilities and is integral to support the planned introduction of several additional lines of product in 2003 and beyond.” Cambridge Mayor Samuel A. Salupo stated, “We are extremely pleased about another plastics company with such high growth potential locating in Cambridge, and bringing new tax dollars and jobs. Encore is exactly the kind of dynamic company that we seek to attract to our city. Encore’s decision is further recognition of the excellent location and valuable assets which Cambridge offers to quality businesses.” ### Established in 1987, Encore Plastics is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Completes 4th Acquisition Since 1998 with Acquisition of East Texas Custom Plastics, Inc. November 16, 2001 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, an injection molder and thermoformer of plastic paint sundry products, today announced the acquisition of East Texas Custom Plastics, Inc., an innovative manufacturer of plastic products for the paint, hardware and home improvement markets, located in Bullard, Texas. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "The acquisition of East Texas Custom Plastics is consistent with our goal to increase market share through organic growth and acquisitions," said D. Craig Rathbun, Encore's President. "This acquisition is a significant step forward in the execution of Encore's business strategy and gives us additional product lines that are complementary to our core business. The addition of the Turbo Mixer and Magnum Turbo Mixer products will certainly enhance Encore's Paintin' Pal family of painting accessories and strengthen our position in the retail paint sundries market." This is the fourth acquisition by Encore since 1998, and follows the April 2000 acquisition of Midstate Plastics Corporation, the February 1999 acquisition of Stylette Paint Sundries and the July 1998 acquisition of Jonathan Bye Industries, Inc. Encore plans to consolidate the East Texas operation into the company's Byesville, Ohio facility, pursuant to a reorganization that should be completed by the end of 2001. ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Announces Addition Of National Sales Manager July 1, 2001 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, an injection molder of plastic paint sundries, today announced the addition of a National Sales Manager to its sales team, aimed at taking the Company to the next level of growth and profitability. * Robert G. Lamoreaux has been appointed as the Company’s National Sales Manager, reporting directly to the President. He will be responsible for the Company’s paint sundry sales activities. Mr. Lamoreaux, formerly National Sales Manager at Newborn Brothers Company, Inc., brings a track record of generating dynamic growth through creative customer based marketing programs. He has extensive experience in sales and marketing, and has spent more than 20 years in the home improvement industry. "It's clear that to get to the next level, Encore needs this kind of sales management reinforcement," said D. Craig Rathbun, the President of Encore. "A broader, deeper management team will help us to unlock the remarkable growth prospects before us in the paint sundry and home improvement market. This is a natural evolution of our Company and one that should be greeted with enthusiasm by our growing customer base. We are moving forward aggressively with a gameplan I believe this market will find very appealing." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. It is also a national supplier of weatherization products, including indoor air conditioning covers, and a significant custom thermoformer through its Midstate Plastics Corporation subsidiary and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Enters Thermoforming with Acquisition of Midstate Plastics Corporation April 3, 2000 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics, an injection molder of plastic paint sundry products has once again expanded its market reach through acquisition. Encore Industries, Inc., the newly established parent of Encore Plastics Corporation, today announced the acquisition of Midstate Plastics Corporation, an injection molding and thermoforming manufacturer. Midstate Plastics manufactures and distributes a line of plastic pails, trays, liners and accessories to the paint, hardware and home improvement markets. Midstate also produces a proprietary line of energy saving weatherization products. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition will increase Encore's employment in the U.S. to 75. The combined companies include 14 injection molders and 12 thermoforming lines at three locations. The addition of a second distribution operation will enable Encore to aggressively pursue western relationships. Alan S. Rajdl, President of Midstate Plastics, has accepted the position of Vice President and General Manager for the newly established company and will assume an active role in guiding Encore's future growth plans. "This acquisition will bring significant synergy to the combined companies and continues our interest in growing our core business through the introduction of new product lines and through strategic acquisitions," said Timothy J. Rathbun, Vice President of Encore. "The addition of Midstate Plastics will enable Encore to offer a broader product assortment and will enhance our paint sundry distribution as well as strengthen our thermoforming capabilities." This is the third acquisition by Encore since 1998, and follows the February 1999 acquisition of Stylette Paint Sundries and the July 1998 acquisition of Jonathan Bye Industries, Inc. Midstate's Remer, Minesota facility will become the primary thermoforming location for Encore's expanding paint sundry business and provides the company with property for future expansion of the facility. The resulting operation enables Encore to significantly expand its product development and distribution capability and will strengthen its position as the premier full service paint sundry manufacturer in the U.S. Encore now has in-house mold production capability and the largest variety of industrial pails, mixing containers, paint and wallpaper trays, liners and accessories in the U.S. ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Corporation Receives Approval as Mid South Associates Member Supplier May 24, 1999 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation is pleased to announce that it has obtained approval as a supplier of Midsouth Associates, Inc., one of the premier sundry and decorating products buying groups consisting of distributors serving independent paint dealers and hardware stores in the United States and Canada. Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore Plastics Corporation, commented that "the acceptance of Encore's program by Mid South represents another significant step in our corporate plan to build upon our core of retail paint, hardware and home improvement customers. This affiliation Midsouth and its members will serve to solidify our national corporate presence for years to come. We look forward to working closely with Mid South and its members to assure a highly sucessful retail distribution program for ourselves and the group's many quality member's throughout the United States and Canada." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Corporation Receives Approval as Distribution America Member Supplier May 1, 1999 (Bellevue, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation is pleased to announce that it has obtained approval as a supplier of Distribution America, a Des Plaines, Illinois based marketing group comprised of full-line independent regional distributors- the largest independent distribution network for hardlines products in America. Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore Plastics Corporation, commented that "the approval of Encore by Distribution America represents a significant approval for Encore, which will enable us to continue our aggressive growth plans. We believe that this approval also represents another statement in support of our expanding service capabilities. In addition to our recent acquisitions of Jonathan Bye Industries, Inc., and the Stylette Paint Sundry Division, we will continue our efforts to assure that our customers and all affiliated groups receive dynamic support and first-class service. We look forward to developing long term relationships with each of the DA members that will build on, and allow us to grow, Encore's product and service capabilities." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers throughout the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Acquires Paint Sundry Division From Stylette Plastics February 18, 1999 (Byesville, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation today announced the acquisition of Stylette Paint Sundries, a pioneer in the expanding paint sundries market located in Oakdale, Pennsylvania (near Pittsburgh). Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition of Stylette's paint sundry division enables Encore to significantly expand its distribution capability in the United States and will strengthen its position as a major full service paint sundry manufacturer. Encore, one of the most diversified paint sundry suppliers in the U.S., designs, develops, manufactures and distributes paint sundry products, primarily for sale to national and regional home hardware, DIY and automotive paint sundry supply wholesalers and retailers. Encore's products include a full line of paint and wallpaper trays and liners, plastic, paper and metal pails and accessories, including its line of Clearvue paint mixing pails. Encore will be relocating its distribution operations from Sandusky, Ohio to its newly acquired 30,000 square foot distribution center in Cambridge, Ohio, effective February 22, 1999. A 12,000 square foot expansion to its Byesville, Ohio manufacturing facility is currently underway and is scheduled for completion in June 1999. Increased Purchasing Power and Market Presence As Encore continues its pattern of dramatic growth, it expects to lower its cost of capital while realizing greater purchasing power. In turn, the company expects to provide more attractive long- term price and service stability to its expanding customer base. Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore, stated that "strategic acquisitions such as this one are the surest and least risky way to grow because we are buying already well- established relationships. This particular acquisition furthers Encore's interest in expanding and enhancing its distribution network throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Stylette is a well respected name and this acquisition provides us with the opportunity to add complementary products with a rich heritage to our range of paint sundry products. Additionally, Stylette's long-established presence will provide Encore with immediate growth opportunities, and we are looking forward to capitalizing on these newly developing relationships." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Bellevue, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 800/336/2673; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Announces Reorganization and Introduction of Visa/Master Card Sales February 1, 1999 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary Encore Plastics Corporation, a Sandusky, Ohio based custom injection molder and manufacturer of paint sundry products and disposable medical supplies, today announced that they have merged together in a move designed to formalize the consolidation of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, Inc. with and into Encore Industries, Inc., which has occured since Encore's acquisition of JBI in July 1998. The new company, to be known as Encore Plastics Corporation will relocate into a newly acquired corporate office in Bellevue, Ohio later this month. Manufacturing activities will be conducted in the company's Byesville, Ohio manufacturing facility, which is scheduled for a major expansion to begin during the second quarter of the year. Distribution activites will be conducted in a newly-acquired 30,000 square foot warehouse located in Cambridge, Ohio. John Wilson, Vice President of Manufacturing stated that "this series of reorganization activities will better position Encore for the long-term continued growth which lies ahead. The expanding manufacturing facility and outstanding distribution center and corporate office will have a significant impact on the product and service quality that we provide." The company also announced the introduction of its Visa and Master Card acceptance program for payment of product and service invoices. Jodi D. Conley, Vice President of Administration of Encore stated that "the initiation of our credit card acceptance program, together with our recently enhanced internet web site is one more step in Encore's overall corporate plan of assuring its many customers the highest quality service available both today and tomorrow. Encore continues to lead the way in customer service- twenty-four hours every day with Encore @Work On-Line." In addition to credit card sales, the company will continue to accept orders on open account for customers with approved credit. ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers throughout the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Plastics Adds Vice Presidents January 4, 1999 (Byesville, Ohio) Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore Industries, today announced that John Wilson, a long-time industry professional with over 30 years of manufacturing and printing experience with Venture Packaging, Berry Plastics and Courtesy Corporation has joined the company as Vice President of Manufacturing. Mr. Wilson was most recently a Plant Manager with Courtesy Corporation in Anderson, South Carolina. Preceding his service with Courtesy Plastics, Mr. Wilson was a Plant Manager with Berry Plastics in Anderson, South Carolina following its acquisition of Venture Packaging in 1997. In making the announcement, Tim Rathbun indicated that "the addition of John Wilson to Encore's management team will add much needed depth and stability to Encore's manufacturing unit and will greatly facilitate Encore's aggressive growth plans for 1999 and beyond." In addressing the engagement, John Wilson added that "consistent quality, timely delivery and cost containment will be Encore's principal manufacturing objectives. I am looking forward to assuring that Encore continues to operate at the highest level of manufacturing efficiency." The company also announced that Jodi D. Conley, formerly Corporate Administrator of Encore Industries has been named Vice President of Administration with primary responsibility for corporate activities. Ms. Conley, formerly served with the Toledo, Ohio law firm of Eastman & Smith and the Monroeville, Ohio based Venture Packaging in similar capacities. Ms. Conley indicated that "increased customer contact and the introduction of more aggressive marketing programs will be immediate priorities. I am looking forward to overseeing several significant customer related programs scheduled to be announced during 1999." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With its July 1998 acquisition of the former Jonathan Bye Industries, it has also become a significant custom injection molder in the Midwest United States through its Encore Custom Molding division and a premier supplier of disposable medical supplies through its Encore Medical Products division. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products and services are available to customers throughout the U.S, Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Acquires Jonathan Bye Industries July 17, 1998 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Plastics Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Encore Industries, Inc. today announced the acquisition of Jonathan Bye Industries, Inc., a leading producer of medical and surgical disposables in Byesville, Ohio (near Marietta) and a custom molder of injection molded plastic products for 18 years. The activities purchased comprise the manufacturing of a line of surgical razors, other medical products and a strategic custom molding capability serving customers in the northeast, mid-atlantic and midwestern states, Canada and Central and South America. Encore will retain the existing 20 employees who are experienced in manufacturing and customer service in this field and expects to expand the operation through the introduction of several additional product lines. Cynthia Turner, the Executive Vice President of Medical Service Corporation International, will be retained in a sales and consulting capacity for this facility. Increased manufacturing capacity This acquisition will increase the total of the company’s staff in the US to 35, and will expand Encore’s available manufacturing capacity and offer excellent geographic access to its principal paint sundries and medical products markets nationwide. Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore, stated that "this strategic acquisition furthers Encore's interest in expanding and enhancing its manufacturing and distribution network throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Jonathan Bye's well-trained staff will provide Encore with immediate growth opportunities both here in the United States and in additional markets over-seas which were not previously available to the company." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Introduces Interactive Web Site January 10, 1998 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, a Sandusky, Ohio based distributor of paint sundries products to paint, hardware, home center and farm stores nationwide, today announced the inception of the Encore Industries @Work On-Line internet web page. The site will initially feature an on-line catalog and account maintenance and product ordering tools, as well as an on-line Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) section. Additional features are planned for the site, including the introduction of credit card sales and on-line customer surveys. Tim Rathbun, Vice President of Encore stated that "the initiation of our internet web site is one more step in Encore's overall corporate plan of assuring its many customers the highest quality service available both today and tomorrow. As our customers begin to experiment with, and to utilize the internet's potential benefits, Encore plans to be there to lead the way - twenty-four hours every day with Encore @Work On-Line." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Adds Vice President September 8, 1997 (Sandusky, Ohio) John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, today announced that Tim Rathbun, a corporate attorney has joined the company as Vice President. Mr. Rathbun, a graduate of Bowling Green State University and Case Western Reserve School of Law was most recently Vice President of Administrative and Legal Affairs of Venture Packaging, Inc., in Monroeville, Ohio. Preceding his service with Venture Packaging, Mr. Rathbun was an associate attorney with the Toledo, Ohio law firm of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, working in the firm's corporate and securities department. Speaking of todays announcement, John Rathbun indicated that "the addition of Tim Rathbun to Encore's full-time management team will add significant depth of management and will enable us to respond to our customers' demands with greater speed and efficiency." In addressing the engagement, Tim Rathbun added that "job one at Encore has always been customer service. After acting in an advisory role for several years, it has become obvious that my full-time engagement is vital to assuring that the needs of our growing customer base will continue to be met with the highest level of service." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Receives Approval of Reliable Distributors, Inc. May 1, 1997 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, a Sandusky, Ohio based distributor of paint sundries products to paint, hardware, home center, farm store and other retailers, today announced that it has obtained approval as a supplier of Reliable Distributors, Inc., a Libertyville, Illinois based buying group with members serving paint, hardware and building distributors and other wholoesalers and retailiers located throughout the United States. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, said "the addition of Reliable Distributors to Encore's growing list of paint, hardware and home center affiliates is another exciting step in our growth and development in this growing market. We are looking forward to working closely with Reliable and its many quality members to assure a highly successful partnership for years to come." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Receives Approval as Val-Test Member Supplier January 1, 1997 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries is pleased to announce that it has obtained approval as a supplier of Val-Test, a Schaumburg, Illinois based buying group consisting of distributors serving paint dealers and hardware stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Japan. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, commented that "the approval of Encore by Val-Test represents another in a string of recent approvals of Encore and our service capabilities. We continue to work diligently to assure that our customers and affiliated groups receive dynamic support and first-class service. We look forward to developing longterm relationships with each of the Val-Test members that will build on, and allow us to grow, Encore's product and service capabilities." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Receives Approval of National Paint Distributors (NPD)/Dezignrite October 1, 1996 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, today announced that it has obtained approval as a supplier of National Paint Distributors (NPD)/Dezignrite, an Englewood, Colorado based buying group consisting of distributors serving independent paint dealers and hardware stores in the United States and Canada. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, commented that "the acceptance of Encore's program by NPD, combined with the related approval of Encore by The Pro Group, Inc. represents a significant step in our corporate plan to build upon our core of retail paint, hardware and home improvement customers. This affiliation with a pair of national leaders will serve to solidify our national corporate presence for years to come. We look forward to working closely with NPD, the Pro Group and their respective members to assure a highly sucessful retail distribution program for ourselves and the groups' many quality customer's throughout the United States and Canada." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Receives Approval of The Pro Group October 1, 1996 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, today announced that it has obtained approval as a supplier of the Pro Group, an Englewood, Colorado based buying group consisting of distributors serving independent paint dealers and hardware stores in the United States and Canada. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, commented that "the acceptance of Encore's program by the Pro Group, combined with the related approval of Encore by National Paint Distributors (NPD) represents a significant step in our corporate plan to build upon our core of retail paint, hardware and home improvement customers. This affiliation with a pair of national leaders will serve to solidify our national corporate presence for years to come. We look forward to working closely with the Pro Group and NPD and their respective members to assure a highly sucessful retail distribution program for ourselves and the groups' many quality customer's throughout the United States and Canada." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Receives Approval as Associated Hardware Buyers Member Supplier July 13, 1995 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, a Sandusky, Ohio based distributor of paint sundries products, today announced that it has obtained approval as a supplier of Associated Hardware Buyers, a Gainsville, Georgia based buying group with members serving paint, hardware, home center, and farm stores throughout the southeast United States. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries, said "this approval is yet another step in the growth of Encore as a prime supplier of paint, hardware, home center and farm stores nationwide. We are very excited about this approval and look forward to working closely with the Associated Hardware Buyers and its members." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Co-Founder Retires - Will Provide Continuing Consulting Services June 21, 1994 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, a national distributor of paint sundries products, today announced that Donald D. Diecks, a former officer and director of the company, and its current national sales manager, has resigned. Mr. Diecks, who is based in Pennsylvania, is a co-founder of the company. He has decided to remain in Pennsylvania to pursue other interests and will leave the Sandusky, Ohio based company by the end of the year. Mr. Diecks will continue to aid Encore in a consulting capacity. Speaking about today's announcement, John Rathbun, President and CEO of Encore, said, "During his time with Encore, Mr. Diecks made a significant contribution to the company's current position as a national presence in the paint sundries market. We wish Don the very best in his new projects and look forward to his continued counsel in his continuing capacity as a valued consultant for Encore." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com Encore Industries Announces Reorganization - Expansion January 3, 1994 (Sandusky, Ohio) Encore Industries, a national distributor of paint sundries products, today announced that a group consisting of D. Craig Rathbun, Timothy J. Rathbun, Jodi D. Conley, John P. Wilson and Brett C. Bauer has acquired a majority interest in the paint sundries leader from co-founders Donald D. Diecks and W. John Rathbun. While the terms of the acquisition were not announced, the company indicated that Donald D. Diecks retained an ownership interest in the company and would continue his activities on behalf of the company as its national sales manager. John Rathbun has been named President of the Pennsylvania based company, which also will be relocated to expanded facilities in Sandusky, Ohio. The new ownership group results in an immediate influx of quality management support for Encore's growing business. Craig Rathbun brings ten years of marketing experience to the company. Tim Rathbun brings the services of a practicing corporate attorney to the management team. Jodi Conley will take over Encore's office administration and telemarketing operations. Brett Bauer is a certified public accountant with extensive experience in corporate finance and the priciples of cost accounting. John Wilson has over twenty years of experience in injection molding, the technology which drives Encore's main product line. John Rathbun, President of Encore Industries said, "This reorganization has added significant depth to our management resources and the expansion into an outstanding facility located just minutes from major interstates and our major manufacturing partner will enable Encore to immediately expand its business to better meet the needs of its growing customer base." ### Established in 1987, Encore is a market leader in the distribution of paint sundries to paint, hardware and home improvement retailers nationwide. With headquarters in Sandusky, Ohio, Encore's products are available to customers nationwide in the U.S, and in Canada and Mexico. Encore's internet homepage can be found at http://www.e-Encore.com. For additional information, contact Tim Rathbun at 419/626/3032; trathbun@e-Encore.com

Encore customers are subject to our Purchase Terms and Conditions.	Encore Credit Application | Submit PO