Press Release

As we know, in a quick-changing world of consumer needs and desires, technological advances have edged out lesser products and fast-moving trends have superceded now-tired standbys. Where consumers once looked to find the right product to fit their lifestyle, companies are now clamoring to meet the expectation that goods and services predict and fulfill consumer needs. Swingline has succeeded in doing just that, with what might appear to be an ordinary gadget - the standard stapler. Indeed, with product not yet to market, the company is already seeing a spike in demand, and is quickly working to stock orders and fill shelves by October of this year.

"The product platforms mark one of the most significant points in the history of Swingline," said Jeff Ackerberg vice president of marketing, sales and product development. "These new and enhanced staplers are designed to make everyday tasks easier, and will only further our already solid reputation as a reliable and sought after brand."

Swingline's new platforms of electric and handheld staplers - seven in total -offer superior performance, higher capacity, and feature new amenities such as low-staple indicators, precision alignment, staple storage and hidden staple removers. In addition, Swingline consulted known ergonomic expert Dr. Michael Minieka, who participated in the ideation and development process of the new 2004 line. As a result, the products are suited for comfortable, repetitive use among a wide range of ages.

We'd like to introduce you to Swingline's new 2004 product platform of electric and handheld staplers:

Handheld

Optima™ Desk Stapler

Experience next generation performance and consistency with this innovative desktop stapler. Breakthrough design delivers guaranteed jam-free performance for every staple, from the first staple in the strip to the last. Users see increased productivity, with 25% greater capacity than standard desktop staplers, when Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples are used. The Optima™ Desk Stapler not only staples up to 25 sheets of 20 lb. paper with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples, it is backed by the Swingline 100% performance guarantee. The stapler features die cast metal design for maximum durability, enhanced soft feel materials for stapling comfort, innovative streamlined design, and a positive tacking latch for secure stapling position. Patent pending. This stapler comes in an assortment of classy colors, including chrome silver, royal blue and black. The Optima™ Desk Stapler will be available for purchase nationwide at office product dealers and office product superstores and at www.swingline.com. Expected retail price is $16.99.

Optima™ Grip Stapler

Experience next generation handheld performance with this innovative contoured stapler, expertly designed to maximize handheld performance. Breakthrough design delivers guaranteed jam-free performance for every staple, from the first to the last on the strip. Users see increased productivity, with 25% greater capacity than standard desktop staplers, when Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples are used. The Optima™ Grip Stapler not only staples up 2-25 sheets of 20 lb. paper with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples, it is backed by the Swingline 100% performance guarantee. The stapler features die cast metal design for maximum durability, enhanced soft feel materials for stapling comfort, innovative streamlined design, and a positive tacking latch for secure stapling position. This stapler comes in an assortment of the latest color trends, including chrome silver, royal blue and black. The Optima™ Grip Stapler will be available for purchase nationwide at office product dealers and office product superstores and at www.swingline.com. Expected retail price is $16.49.

Companion™ Desk Stapler

The Companion™ Desk Stapler allows users to experience unprecedented convenience with this desktop wonder. A detachable, no-tear staple remover is built right in for clean, precise staple removal whenever and wherever you need it! A contemporary design delivers exceptional stapling comfort, performance and efficiency. The Companion™ Desk Stapler staples 2-20 sheets of 20 lb. paper with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples. This new stapler comes in an assortment of classic yet modern colors, including blue, burgundy and charcoal. Expected retail price is $9.99.

InVision™ Desk Stapler

The ultimate in stapling efficiency for your desktop, the InVision™ Desk Stapler has a patented staple indication feature that allows users to know when staples are running low. Staples are easily and conveniently replaced, with a built-in storage compartment for quick refills! With contemporary form and materials, the InVision™ Desk Stapler is designed for comfort, productivity and efficiency. The stapler staples 2-20 sheets of 20 lb. papers with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples. Expected retail price is $8.99.

Electric

Speed Grip™ Electric Stapler

In this sleek new compact stapler, electric speed and performance meet handheld convenience. With an innovative user control option, it provides users with total electric stapling control and precision - and it staples only when the user is ready! Soft-grip material delivers exceptional handheld comfort, and a battery or AC power option provides flexibility and go-anywhere portability. The Speed Grip™ Electric Stapler boasts a stylish hi-tech design and staples 2-20 sheets or 20 lb. paper with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples. Expected retail price is $29.99.

Speed Pro™ Desk Electric Stapler

The Speed Pro™ Desk Electric Stapler lets users take full advantage of the efficiency of electric stapling with this convenient desktop performer. A high power electric stapling mechanism ensures quiet and smooth operation - no unsettling sudden noises with this unit! Inviting design allows for easy paper insertion, and a user control option and integrated precision guides with total stapling control. The Speed Pro™ Desk Electric Stapler staples when and where you want to. A detachable staple remover fits right into the body, so users can use it whenever they need it! The Speed Grip™ Electric Stapler boasts a stylish hi-tech design and staples 2-20 sheets or 20 lb. paper with Swingline® S.F.® 4 Premium Staples. Expected retail price is $47.99.

Speed Pro™ High Capacity Electric Stapler

In this stapler, users discover professional high capacity electric stapling performance for desktops and workspaces. The Speed Pro™ High Capacity Electric Stapler staples 2-60 sheets with a single staple for maximum high capacity stapling flexibility. The quiet, high torque stapling mechanism provides jam-free reliability without the loud and sudden noise found traditional electric staplers! A flat clinch anvil ensures neat, low profile staple finish, regardless of sheet count. The unique platform design along with adjustable depth and side guides offer users the ultimate in stapling ease and precision. A control option and integrated precision guides give users stapling control. Metal accents provide exceptional durability, and a built-in staple storage and staple remover compartment are included for full-range stapling convenience. Additionally, a low staple and power LED indication provides intuitive user feedback. This product should be used with Swingline #35550 High Capacity Staples. Limited lifetime warranty. Suggested list price is $299.95.

Swingline, a business unit of ACCO Brands, Inc., is a leading brand in workspace tools for the business, home and mobile office. For more information, please visit www.swingline.com.

ACCO Brands is a subsidiary of ACCO World Corp., one of the world's leading office products manufacturers and the office products business of Fortune Brands Inc. (NYSE: FO), the consumer products company. Headquartered in Lincolnshire, Ill. with operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico, ACCO Brands manufactures and markets the category-leading brands of ACCO, Swingline, Day- Timer, Kensington, Wilson Jones, MACO, Perma, Apollo and Boone through office products superstores, mass retailers, mail order and business-to-business channels. For more information, visit www.accobrands.com.