Refocusing on reseller network that has sold Asahi Photoproducts since 2000

ATLANTA, GA (May 12, 2011) - Asahi Kasei E-materials Corp. (Asahi), a world-leading supplier of photopolymer printing plates to the flexographic printing industry focusing on providing high value added products and unique photopolymer technology for flexographic printing plates and systems, announces that it is reorganizing its photoproducts sales network in North America. Going forward, Asahi will discontinue its direct sales efforts, and will rely on its reseller network for all sales and technical support activities. In doing so, Asahi is in the process of closing the Atlanta Office of Asahi Kasei America Inc.(AKA).

Strength of Japanese yen and slow recovery of North American economy
In the view of the strength of the Japanese yen compared to the US and Canadian dollars, and the slow recovery of the North American economies, Asahi decided to provide technical and sales support through its strong network of distribution partners.

Resellers to provide sales and technical support in North America
While Asahi had overseen its North American sales efforts from the Atlanta Office of AKA since 2008, the company has provided its products and service through the North American distribution network it has utilized since 2000. These reseller partners include Correct-Touch Graphic Arts, Inc. (www.ctgraphicarts.com), RBCOR, LLC. (www.rbcor.com), All Printing Resources, Inc. (www.teamflexo.com) and Heidelberg Canada Graphic Equipment Limited (www.ca.heidelberg.com).

The office in Atlanta will conduct business until existing accounts are transitioned to the reseller network. Any questions can be directed to Joe Bauer, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the Photoproducts Division. He can be reached at 404-344-1223 X101 or via email at jbauer@asahi-photoproducts.com.

About Asahi Kasei
Asahi Kasei Corp., founded in Japan in 1931 and based in Tokyo with consolidated sales of over $19 billion, is one of the leading global chemical companies. Its 25,000 employees worldwide work in research, production, sales and application technology, providing innovative chemistry and materials science solutions to a diverse range of markets, including fibers, chemicals, consumer products, housing, construction, electronics, and health care.


Asahi Kasei E-materials is a leading global supplier of photopolymer printing plates, with facilities serving the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.asahi-photoproducts.com.

Source: Asahi Kasei