FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Teresa De Mers
Advertising & Promotions Manager
Oregon Cutting Systems Group
4909 SE International Way Portland, OR 97222
Tel: (503) 653-4408 Fax: (503) 353-6430
Web: www.oregonchain.com
 
Oregon® Hosts US Distributor Strategic Planning Meeting
Portland, Oregon: April 16, 2007 – Oregon Cutting Systems Group (OCSG), a division of Blount, Inc., recently hosted a U.S. Distributor meeting at its worldwide headquarters in Portland, Oregon. The attendees represented distribution from all regions of the United States. The group discussed marketing ideas for the future as well as industry trends and strategic plans. OCSG President Mr. Kenneth Saito led the strategy session and acknowledged the group as business partners with modern facilities and systems in the right locations to service independent dealers. Ken shared the strategy of OCSG and distributors provided feedback from each of their current markets.

The event was capped off by an elegant reception, dinner and an address by Mr. James Osterman, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Blount Inc. Mr. Osterman reviewed the company's 60 year heritage from its founding days of Joseph Cox to its current worldwide operations. He emphasized the company's commitment to developing innovative products, increasing the use of technology, growing Oregon® market share, and aggressive advertising. The company continues to invest in each of these areas for long-term growth.
Oregon Cutting Systems Group: Founded in 1947, the Oregon Cutting Systems Group of Blount, Inc. is a world leader in providing high quality original equipment and replacement parts to the outdoor power equipment industry. Replacement products sold under the Oregon® brand name provide the industry with one of its most complete lines of parts, including saw chain, guide bars, sprockets and maintenance accessories for chainsaws; lawnmower blades, engine parts, belts, tires and service tools for mowers and other outdoor power equipment; and trimmer line, heads, and blades for trimmers and brushcutters. Oregon® replacement products are sold in more than 130 countries, and many leading manufacturers of outdoor power tools use parts made by Oregon Cutting Systems as original equipment. More information about the Oregon Cutting Systems Group and the Oregon® brand of quality replacement parts can be found at www.oregonchain.com.