Astro-Med, Inc. Directors Declare Quarterly Dividend; FY 2015 Financial Results Scheduled for March 18

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a leading manufacturer of data visualization technology products for the specialty printing and test & measurement markets, will announce its fourth-quarter fiscal 2015 financial results pre-market on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 and will host a conference call starting at 9:00 a.m. ET.

The call can be accessed at Astro-Med, Inc.’s web site, www.Astro-MedInc.com. You can participate in the conference call by dialing 888-539-3638 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-2693 (International) with passcode 435183.

Following the live broadcast, an audio webcast of the call will be available at www.Astro-MedInc.com. A telephone replay of the conference call will be available for seven days by dialing 888-203-1112 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-0820 (International) with passcode 6616267.

Directors Declare Quarterly Dividend

On February 27, 2015, the Directors of Astro-Med, Inc. declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share, payable on April 1, 2015, to shareholders of record March 13, 2015 for the fourth quarter, which ended on January 31, 2015.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a global leader in data visualization technology that delivers accuracy, efficiency, speed and performance across a range of end markets. The Company’s products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand, rugged printers for aerospace and defense applications as well as test & measurement products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Information included in this news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. These statements may include the use the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “likely,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014 and subsequent filings Astro-Med makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this news release.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc.
Joseph P. O’Connell, 800-343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

Astro-Med Further Establishes Presence in Asia with Donghai Flight Deck Printer Deal

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT) announced that it reached a deal with Donghai Airlines, in China, to provide Astro-Med Ruggedized flight deck printers for their fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft.

Astro-Med President and CEO Greg Woods said, “The agreement with Donghai Airlines is just the most recent step in Astro-Med’s on going expansion into the Asia market. With Donghai, we continue to build the reputation of Astro-Med as the preeminent manufacturer of ruggedized printers for airlines and aircraft around the globe.”

Astro-Med Ruggedized printers, including the ToughWriter 5 and the narrow format ToughWriter 640, offer the highest print quality available for text and graphics, industry-leading print speed, and are used globally in military, commercial, business and regional aircraft.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med has been designing and manufacturing ruggedized airborne printers based on its industry leading Data Visualization Technology for more than a decade. These ruggedized printers and related ruggedized Ethernet switches, which are part of our Test & Measurement Group, are used in the most demanding military and commercial environments, including airborne, shipboard, and ground vehicle applications. Astro-Med is currently furnishing airborne printers for the Airbus A380 and A400M, the Boeing C-17, B-787, B-777, B-747, and the Lockheed C-130. Astro-Med is certified to AS9100, the quality management system specifically designed for manufacturers of aerospace industry products. Astro-Med is proud to manufacture in Rhode Island, USA. Additional information about Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer products is available at http://www.astro-med.com/ruggedized_products.

About Donghai Airlines

Donghai Airlines Co., Ltd operates from its main base located at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in Shenzhen, China. The airline offers a number of domestic and international cargo flight routes to almost twenty-five destinations including Hong Kong, Osaka, Bangkok, and Manila. As Donghai expands, the airline will launch passenger service from Shenzhen to Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Chongqing and other domestic destinations.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc.
Gregory A. Woods, 877-867-9783
CEO
or
Thomas W. Carll, 877-867-9783
Vice President
www.Astro-Med.com

 

Astro-Med Announces Meeting Date Change for 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition products, announced today that the Company has rescheduled the date for its 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

The Annual Shareholders’ Meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at the offices of the Company, 600 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick, Rhode Island. The Company had originally scheduled the 2015 Annual Meeting to occur on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 as reported in the Company’s 2014 proxy statement. Shareholder proposals that are to be considered at the 2015 Annual Meeting but not requested to be included in the proxy statement must be submitted no later than March 21, 2015.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition systems. Products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand as well as ruggedized printers for aerospace, defense applications, and data acquisition products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc.
Joseph P. O’Connell, 800-343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

Astro-Med Announces Repurchase of 500,000 Shares of Common Stock

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition products, announced that it has repurchased 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock from the Estate of Albert W. Ondis for an aggregate purchase price of $6,250,000. The transaction was consummated on December 5, 2014 and was funded using existing cash on hand.

Prior to entering into the Stock Purchase Agreement with the selling shareholders, the Company obtained an opinion from an independent investment banking firm as to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the public shareholders of the Company other than the selling shareholders, of the consideration paid by the Company in the transaction.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of specialty high tech printing systems and data acquisition systems. Products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand as well as ruggedized printers for aerospace, defense applications, and data acquisition products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information included in this news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. These statements may include the use the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “likely,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014 and subsequent filings Astro-Med makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this news release.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

for Astro-Med, Inc.
Joseph P. O’Connell, 800-343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

Astro-Med Reports Strong Results for Third Quarter Fiscal 2015; Board of Directors Declares Regular Cash Dividend

  • Net Sales of $23.1 Million, Up 27.3% from Q3 FY 2014
  • Gross Margin of 43.9%, Up 340 Basis Points from Q3 FY 2014
  • Operating Margin of 11.1%, Up 460 Basis Points from Q3 FY 2014
  • Diluted EPS of $0.20, Up from $0.14 in Q3 FY 2014
  • Company Completes Integration of Miltope Acquisition

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition products, today reported net sales of $23.1 million for the three months ended November 1, 2014, an increase of 27.3% from the same period a year earlier. Net income for the fiscal third quarter of 2015 was $1.6 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, compared with net income of $1.1 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for the same period a year earlier.

“By concentrating on three key areas – product development, manufacturing efficiency and geographic expansion – we are achieving increasing levels of operational and financial success,” said Astro-Med President and Chief Executive Officer, Gregory A. Woods. “Our third-quarter performance reflected these efforts. Solid demand across all product lines generated record third-quarter net sales, as our QuickLabel Systems (QLS) and Test & Measurement (T&M) segments increased approximately 22% and 39%, respectively. Both our domestic and international sales channels contributed nicely to the Company’s top-line growth.”

“Higher revenue, combined with the success of our ongoing lean manufacturing initiatives, contributed to a 340 basis-point increase in our gross margin, which grew to 43.9% in the quarter,” Woods said. “Even as we stepped up investments in marketing and R&D, our operating profit increased to $2.6 million, or 11.1% of net sales, from $1.2 million, or 6.5% of net sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2014. This demonstrates continued improvement in our operating leverage.”

For the nine months ended November 1, 2014, Astro-Med reported net sales of $66.3 million, an increase of 30.3% over the prior year sales of $50.9 million for the same period. The Company reported net income of $4.1 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, for the first nine months of fiscal 2015 compared with $1.4 million, or $0.18 per diluted share, for the same period of fiscal 2014. The fiscal 2014 results included a reserve established to address a non-compliant component in a limited number of ToughWriter Printers. The after-tax cost of this reserve was equal to $0.06 per diluted share. Excluding the impact of this reserve, the Company’s net income on a non-GAAP basis for the nine months ended November 2, 2013 was $1.8 million, or $0.24 per diluted share.

At November 1, 2014, Astro-Med had cash and cash equivalents totaling $30.9 million, compared with $27.1 million at January 31, 2014.

Recent Highlights:

  • New QLS Products – Astro-Med launched the industry’s first full line of color digital label printers using pigment-based ink for ultra-durable labels. Three printer models – the Kiaro! D, Kiaro! 200D and Kiaro! 50D – were unveiled at PACK EXPO International 2014, the largest packaging and processing trade show in North America. The printers are designed for non-laminated industrial labels that will be exposed to sunlight, chemicals, moisture, dirt or other harsh conditions that would otherwise test their legibility and color fastness. The Company also introduced the Kiaro! 50, a narrow-format digital color label printer specifically designed for labels sized 1” to 2.16” wide.
  • Aircraft Printer – Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways selected Astro-Med’s NP4840 network printer for its eEnabled Aircraft program.
  • Miltope Integration Complete – Astro-Med completed the integration of the Miltope acquisition in the third quarter as planned. Manufacturing for Miltope’s aerospace printer line has been fully transitioned from Alabama to Astro-Med’s manufacturing facility in West Warwick, RI.
  • Expansion of Direct Sales in Asia – Tapping into what is considered a significant area for growth, Astro-Med achieved its goal of expanding into Southeast Asia with the opening of a Malaysia office in the third quarter. Further expansion in the Asia Pacific region is planned for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015.

Board of Directors Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend

On November 24, 2014, the Directors of Astro-Med, Inc. declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share. The dividend, which represents a cash dividend of $0.28 per share on an annualized basis, is payable January 2, 2015 to shareholders of record on December 19, 2014.

Business Outlook

“We will continue to drive AMI’s strategy of global growth, expanded distribution, and productivity improvement in the final quarter of fiscal 2015 and beyond. However, given the uncertainty evident in certain European markets, coupled with the upcoming final stage of our Oracle ERP conversion, we are facing some additional headwinds in our fourth quarter,” Woods said. “Notwithstanding these issues, both of our segments are increasing their competitive positions in the market. In the QLS segment, our new pigment ink-based and narrow-format technologies continue to raise the bar for quality, performance and cost efficiency. Within the T&M segment, demand for our ruggedized aerospace printers is strong in both the airline-direct and OEM markets, and our established data acquisition technology continues on a growth path.”

Q3 Fiscal 2015 Conference Call

The third-quarter fiscal 2015 financial results conference call will be held today, Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. EST. It will be broadcast in real time on the Internet through the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at www.Astro-MedInc.com. You also may participate in the conference call by dialing 888-466-4440 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-2704 (International) with passcode 393116.

Following the live broadcast, an audio webcast of the call will be available at www.Astro-MedInc.com. A telephone replay of the conference call will be available for seven days by dialing 888-203-1112 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-0820 (International) with passcode 8012121.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of specialty high tech printing systems and data acquisition systems. Products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand as well as ruggedized printers for aerospace, defense applications, and data acquisition products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information included in this news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. These statements may include the use the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “likely,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including those concerning growth through acquisitions, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014 and subsequent filings Astro-Med makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this news release.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to financial measures prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), this press release also contains the Non-GAAP financial measures, Non-GAAP net income and diluted EPS. The Company believes that the inclusion of these non-GAAP financial measures in this press release helps investors to gain a meaningful understanding of changes in the Company’s core operating results, and also can help investors who wish to make comparisons between Astro-Med and other companies on both a GAAP and a non-GAAP basis. Astro-Med’s management uses these non-GAAP measures, in addition to GAAP financial measures, as the basis for measuring its core operating performance and comparing such performance to that of prior periods and to the performance of its competitors. These measures are also used by the Company’s management to assist with their financial and operating decision making.

ASTRO-MED, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations In Thousands Except for Per Share Data
(Unaudited)

Three-Months Ended Nine-Months Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013 November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013
Net Sales $ 23,137

$

18,179

$ 66,277 $ 50,858
Cost of Sales 12,985 10,816 37,901 30,796
Product Replacement Related Costs 672
Gross Profit 10,152 7,363 28,376 19,390
43.9 % 40.5 % 42.8 % 38.1 %
Operating Expenses:
Selling and Marketing 4,606 3,727 13,483 10,680
Research and Development 1,564 1,230 4,414 3,617
General and Administration 1,407 1,223 4,041 3,745
7,577 6,180 21,938 18,042
Operating Income 2,575 1,183 6,438 1,348
11.1 % 6.5 % 9.7 % 2.7 %
Other Expense, Net (46 ) (2 ) (85 ) (64 )
Income from Continuing Operations Before Taxes 2,529 1,181 6,353 1,284
Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations 974 436 2,235 446
Income from Continuing Operations 1,555 745 4,118 838
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes 363 517
Net Income $ 1,555 $ 1,108 $ 4,118 $ 1,355
Earnings Per Share – Basic:
Net Income per share from Continuing Operations $ 0.20 $ 0.10 $ 0.54 $ 0.11
Net Income per share from Discontinued Operations 0.05 0.07
Net Income per share – Basic $ 0.20 $ 0.15 $ 0.54 $ 0.18
Earnings Per Share – Diluted:
Net Income per share from Continuing Operations $ 0.20 $ 0.10 $ 0.52 $ 0.11
Net Income from Discontinued Operations 0.04 0.07
Net Income per share – Diluted $ 0.20 $ 0.14 $ 0.52 $ 0.18
Weighted Avg Number of Common Shares – Basic 7,730 7,490 7,678 7,449
Weighted Avg Number of Common Shares – Diluted 7,926 7,716 7,897 7,650
Dividends Declared Per Common Share $ 0.07 $ 0.07 $ 0.21 $ 0.21
Selected Balance Sheet Data
in Thousands
(Unaudited)
As of As of
November 1, 2014 January 31, 2014
Cash & Marketable Securities $30,903 $27,107
Current Assets $69,010 $65,034
Total Assets $81,753 $77,964
Current Liabilities $10,569 $9,892
Shareholders’ Equity $70,095 $66,614

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments in Thousands
(Unaudited)

Three-Months Ended Nine-Months Ended
November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013 November 1, 2014 November 2, 2013
GAAP based results as reported:
Net Income $ 1,555 $ 1,108 $ 4,118 $ 1,355
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Product Replacement Costs 423
Non-GAAP Net Income $ 1,555 $ 1,108 $ 4,118 $ 1,778
GAAP based results as reported:
EPS -diluted $ 0.20 $ 0.14 $ 0.52 $ 0.18
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Product Replacement Costs 0.06
Non-GAAP EPS – diluted $ 0.20 $ 0.14 $ 0.52 $ 0.24

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

for Astro-Med, Inc.
Joseph P. O’Connell, (800) 343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

Astro-Med, Inc. to Announce Third Quarter FY 2015 Financial Results on November 26

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALOT), a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition products, will announce its third-quarter fiscal 2015 financial results pre-market on Wednesday, November 26, 2014 and will host a conference call starting at 9:00 a.m. ET.

The call can be accessed at Astro-Med, Inc.’s web site, www.Astro-MedInc.com. You can participate in the conference call by dialing 888-466-4440 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-2704 (International) with passcode 393116.

Following the live broadcast, an audio webcast of the call will be available at www.Astro-MedInc.com. A telephone replay of the conference call will be available for seven days by dialing 888-203-1112 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-0820 (International) with passcode 8012121.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of specialty high tech printing systems and data acquisition systems. Products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand as well as rugged printers for aerospace and defense applications and data acquisition products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc.
Joseph P. O’Connell, 800-343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

 

QuickLabel Systems Launches First Color Label Printer Family with Pigment-Based Ink

Leading label printer brand launches durable family of color label printers, including the Kiaro! D, Kiaro! 200D and Kiaro! 50D

QuickLabel Systems, an Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALOT) business unit, has announced that at Pack Expo 2014 they will be releasing yet another industry first: a full line of pigment ink digital color label printers for printing ultra-durable labels: the Kiaro! D family. The D family represents the latest breakthrough from the company that launched the in-house color label printer revolution.

The “D” is for DURABLE. Available in three different models, the Kiaro! D family of label printers is designed to fit any labeling application where the labels are subjected to harsh environments in shipping, storage, or point of use. The Kiaro! D family will print color labels that can be exposed to sunlight, chemicals, scuffing as well as dirty or wet environments – all while maintaining legibility and color fastness without lamination. The Kiaro! D family will be ready for customer shipments in January 2015.

“Our new Kiaro! D family of color label printers provides exciting opportunities to businesses in need of durable, affordable, in-house label printing solutions,” said Vice President and General Manager Eric Pizzuti. “QuickLabel Systems continues to be a trailblazer as we consistently introduce breakthroughs in on-site digital label printing technologies.”

Combining the cutting-edge pigment ink formulation and QuickLabel’s carefully developed matching label stocks, the labels can be printed by any member of the Kiaro! D family. They comply with GHS hazard warning labeling regulations, one of the most stringent physical label standards in the world.

The Kiaro! D family printers form an essential part of a lean manufacturing best practice solution that enables manufacturers to print complete labels on-demand, replacing purchases of pre-printed labels and traditional barcode printers. Starting from blank stock, the Kiaro! D printers print full-color product labels directly from digital sources such as enterprise systems, barcode labeling software, or graphic design software.

QuickLabel Systems Pigment Based Inks for Durable Labels

The latest technology in pigment-based inks form the backbone of the Kiaro! D family of label printers. Using newly developed pigment, instead of traditional dye-based inks, QuickLabel Systems has achieved the combined level of durability and quality never before seen in an inkjet, short run label printer.

The Kiaro! D

Much the same as the groundbreaking Kiaro! label printer, the Kiaro! D prints labels from 1”- 4” wide and up to more than 15” in length. The Kiaro! D is most suited for a wide variety of applications including bottle, carton, case, and pack labels that require printed product pictures, logos, color codes, barcodes, and other variable data elements. The reliable operation of the Kiaro! D, its rapid print speed, and 1200 dpi print quality all remain consistent with the performance of the original Kiaro!.

The Kiaro! 200D

An extra-wide format label printer, the Kiaro! 200D is capable of making labels (including those for GHS) in large sizes for gallon jugs, shipping drums, pallets, and cases – all in full CMYK color and up to 8.3” in width. In developing a solution for wide format GHS label printing, QuickLabel Systems placed priority in giving chemical suppliers the capability to print the mandatory red and black GHS pictograms, along with printing in full color for branding material, product photos, and color codes.

The Kiaro! 50D

The Kiaro! 50D is small and tough. It prints small, durable labels that withstand big challenges from industrial environments. Using QuickLabel’s pigment ink formulation to produce printed labels that resist the insults of international shipping, scratches, scrapes, spills, and scuffs, the Kiaro! 50D is compatible with matte polypropylene and paper label materials.

About QuickLabel Systems and Astro-Med, Inc.

QuickLabel Systems is a leading manufacturer of digital color label printers used by manufacturers and processors who want to print their own labels in-house, as well as barcode label printers, thermal transfer ribbon, labels, and custom label printing services. QuickLabel Systems is a brand of Astro-Med, Inc., a manufacturer of high tech specialty printing systems and data acquisition systems for test and measurement. Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALOT) is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting http://www.QuickLabel.com. Keep up with QuickLabel Systems on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/QuickLabel and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/QuickLabel.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc.
Eric E. Pizzuti, 877-757-7978
Vice President & General Manager
www.QuickLabel.com

 

QuickLabel Systems Announces Launch of Miniature High Speed, High Quality Color Label Printer

QuickLabel Systems expands Kiaro! family of in-house color label printers with the Kiaro! 50, a narrow format label printer for various applications

QuickLabel Systems, an Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT) business unit, has launched a narrow format label printer specifically designed for customers with small labeling applications: the Kiaro! 50 digital color label printer. The Kiaro! 50 inkjet label printer is available now from QuickLabel Systems and is being featured in the U.S. at the Pack Expo International trade show, in Chicago, IL from November 2-5, 2014.

The Kiaro! 50 is a miniature color label printer designed for printing small, high quality labels in moderate volumes (1” – 2.16” in width). Highlighting its capacity for printing quickly while maintaining a small footprint, the Kiaro! 50 weighs under 10 pounds and stands just over 10” tall.

“The new Kiaro! 50 responds to our customers’ requests for a smaller color label printer,” said QuickLabel Systems Vice President and General Manager Eric Pizzuti. “This exciting new product fits easily in any workspace, while delivering the speed and print quality QuickLabel Systems is known for.”

The Kiaro! 50 is ideal for printing high quality, professional labels for many applications including: gourmet food labels, beverage labels, dietary supplement labels, personal care and cosmetics labels, and other primary display labeling applications that require printed labels to be glossy or matte, with color accuracy and long-lasting print.

The Kiaro! 50 stays true to its larger predecessor, the Kiaro! digital color label printer, by printing quickly and reliably, in high quality in 1200 dpi, and up to 4.8 ips, which is enough to print 68 labels per minute, based on a label that is 2” wide x 4” long. Like other Kiaro! label printers, the Kiaro! 50 does not waste labels when printing, and requires little user maintenance.

The Kiaro! 50 is best suited for applications in which on-demand label printing can lessen the costs of labeling multiple SKUs and buying and storing pre-printed labels, and in which it can increase opportunities to sell custom-labeled products. The Kiaro! 50 digitally prints on blank stock, from 4 individual CMYK dye ink cartridges, which allows long print jobs with minimal user intervention.

Consistent Color Label Printing

The original standard-width Kiaro! label printer has laid the groundwork for the narrow Kiaro! 50 to provide consistent operation, and repeatable, high-quality performance. The Kiaro! 50 automatically detects when cleaning is necessary and performs automatic cleanings without wasting a label.

The Kiaro! 50 prints on an impressive array of substrates, including gloss paper and polypropylene, yielding labels that are ready to use as they exit the label printer.

Designed for Ease of Use

The Kiaro! 50 is easy to use, operate and set up. The fully-integrated design is user-friendly, allowing operators to quickly load labels and inks and begin printing their labels in-house.

The print drivers of the Kiaro! 50 are compatible with all major labeling software including QuickLabel’s own included Custom QuickLabel®, as well as third-party software such as NiceLabel® and Bartender®.

About QuickLabel Systems and Astro-Med, Inc.

QuickLabel Systems is a leading manufacturer of digital color label printers used by manufacturers and processors who want to print their own labels in-house, as well as barcode label printers, thermal transfer ribbon, labels, and custom label printing services. QuickLabel Systems is a brand of Astro-Med, Inc., a manufacturer of high tech specialty printing systems and data acquisition systems for test and measurement. Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALOT) is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting http://www.QuickLabel.com. Keep up with QuickLabel Systems on Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/QuickLabel and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/QuickLabel.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

QuickLabel Systems
Eric E. Pizzuti, 877-757-7978
Vice President & General Manager
www.QuickLabel.com

 

Cathay Pacific Selects Astro-Med’s NP4840 Network Printer for eEnabled Aircraft Program

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a world leader in ruggedized printers for the commercial and military aviation markets, today announced that Cathay Pacific Airways has selected an Astro-Med airborne printer for its eEnabled Aircraft program. The NP4840 network printer will occupy a small footprint as the optional printer component in the airline’s eEnabled Aircraft system.

The eEnabled program is a breakthrough communications technology for the airline industry, as it streamlines and integrates communications management among flight operations, data communication services, cabin services, maintenance, diagnostics, and vital safety information.

“We are pleased to have been chosen as part of Cathay Pacific’s industry-leading eEnabled Aircraft system,” said Astro-Med Vice President and General Manager Thomas W. Carll. “Based on more than three decades of aviation printer experience, our proven NP4840 technology combines fast print speed and high-quality resolution to facilitate all of our customers’ airborne printing needs.”

About Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific Airways is a Hong Kong-based international airline offering scheduled passenger and cargo services to almost 190 destinations in Asia, North America, Australia, Europe and Africa, using a fleet of more than 140 wide-body aircraft. Cathay Pacific is a member of the Swire group and has made substantial investments to develop Hong Kong as one of the world’s leading global transportation hubs. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld® global alliance. Cathay Pacific was named the “World’s Best Airline” for the fourth time in the 2014 annual Skytrax World Airline Awards.

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med has been designing and manufacturing ruggedized airborne printers for decades. These ruggedized printers and related ruggedized Ethernet switches, which are part of our Test & Measurement Group, are used in the most demanding military and commercial environments, including airborne, shipboard, and ground vehicle applications. Astro-Med is currently furnishing airborne printers for aircraft including the Airbus A380 and A400M, the Boeing C-17, B-787, B-777, B-747, and the Lockheed C-130. Astro-Med is certified to AS9100, the quality management system specifically designed for manufacturers of aerospace industry products. Astro-Med is proud to manufacture in Rhode Island, USA. Additional information about Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer products is available at http://www.astro-med.com/ruggedized.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. These statements may include the use of the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “likely,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including those concerning Cathay Pacific’s eEnabled Aircraft program, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014 and subsequent filings Astro-Med makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this news release.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc
Thomas W. Carll, 877-867-9783
Vice President
tcarll@astromed.com

 

Astro-Med Reports Record Revenue and Improved Margins in Second-Quarter FY15; Board of Directors Declares Regular Cash Dividend

  • Net Sales of $22.4 Million, Up 30.1% From Prior Year
  • Gross Margin Increases 260 Basis Points
  • Operating Margin Increases 450 Basis Points
  • Diluted EPS of $0.18, up from $0.09 in Prior Year

Astro-Med, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALOT), a leading manufacturer of specialty high-tech printing systems and data acquisition products, today reported net sales of $22.4 million for the three months ended August 2, 2014, an increase of 30.1% from the same period a year earlier. Net income for the three months ended August 2, 2014 was $1.4 million, or $0.18 per diluted share, compared with net income of $696,000, or $0.09 per diluted share, for the same period a year earlier.

For the six months ended August 2, 2014, Astro-Med reported net sales of $43.1 million, an increase of 32.0% over the prior year. The Company reported net income of $2.6 million equal to $0.33 per diluted share. During the Company’s six-month period of the prior year, net income on a GAAP basis was $247,000, equal to $0.03 per diluted share, which includes a reserve established to address a non-compliant component in a limited number of ToughWriter Printers. The after tax cost was equal to $0.06 per diluted share. Excluding the impact of the reserve, the Company’s net income on a non-GAAP basis was $670,000 equal to $0.09 per diluted share.

“We continued our strong growth momentum in fiscal 2015 with a solid second-quarter performance,” said Gregory A. Woods, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We reported record quarterly revenues of $22.4 million, with both of our segments reporting record sales. We grew orders by 16.2% in Q2 and exited the quarter with a backlog of $14.7 million, up 4.6% from year end. The success of our channel expansion program was evident in our top-line growth and in our further penetration of international markets.

“QLS product sales increased 25.1% in the second quarter to $15.3 million, aided by the continued strength of our Kiaro! Series of color label printers. Our new wide format Kiaro! 200 printer is also opening up new market opportunities for large format applications and has been very well received by customers, who are impressed by the quality and performance of the product.

“Our Test & Measurement product group of ruggedized products and data acquisition systems grew 42.2% to $7.1 million in the quarter with solid contributions from our ruggedized printers and high-speed data acquisition systems, as well as our line of Miltope ruggedized aerospace printers. The response to our expanding product line from Tier One aviation manufacturers and airline companies continues to be very positive.

“We are focusing on growing our top line both organically and through strategic add-on acquisitions,” added Woods. “At the same time we are also working diligently to continue to improve our profitability. Our Lean transformation is proceeding nicely, and we are beginning to see the results of our operational excellence efforts on our financial performance.”

Operating profit for the second quarter of fiscal 2015 increased to $2.2 million, or 9.7% of net sales, compared with $887,000, or 5.2% of net sales, for the same period of fiscal 2014. The 450 basis point increase in margin reflects higher revenue, improved product mix and the ongoing success of Astro-Med’s Lean manufacturing initiatives.

At August 2, 2014, Astro-Med had cash and cash equivalents of $28.0 million, compared with $27.1 million at January 31, 2014.

Board of Directors Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend

On August 18, 2014, the Directors of Astro-Med, Inc. declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.07 per share. The dividend, which represents a cash dividend of $0.28 per share on an annualized basis, is payable October 3, 2014 to shareholders of record on September 12, 2014.

Q2 Fiscal 2015 Conference Call

The second quarter fiscal 2015 financial results conference call will be held today, Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. EDT. It will be broadcast in real time on the Internet through the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at www.Astro-MedInc.com. You also may participate in the conference call by dialing 888-516-2438 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-2668 (International) with passcode 570873. Following the live broadcast, an audio webcast of the call will be available on the Company’s website. A conference call replay also will be available for seven days by dialing 888-203-1112 (U.S. and Canada) or 719-457-0820 (International) with passcode 8273326.

ASTRO-MED, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations In Thousands Except for Per Share Data
(Unaudited)
Three-Months Ended Six-Months Ended
August 2, 2014 August 3, 2013 August 2, 2014 August 3, 2013
Net Sales $ 22,366 $ 17,194 $ 43,140 $ 32,679
Cost of Sales 12,777 10,271 24,915 19,980
Product Replacement Related Costs 672
Gross Profit 9,589 6,923 18,225 12,027
42.9 % 40.3 % 42.2 % 36.8 %
Operating Expenses:
Selling and Marketing 4,503 3,382 8,878 6,954
Research and Development 1,479 1,274 2,850 2,387
General and Administration 1,443 1,380 2,634 2,521
7,425 6,036 14,362 11,862
Operating Income 2,164 887 3,863 165
9.7 % 5.2 % 9.0 % 0.5 %
Other Income (Expense), Net 83 (25 ) (38 ) (62 )
Income from Continuing Operations Before Taxes 2,247 862 3,825 103
Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations 812 331 1,261 11
Income from Continuing Operations 1,435 531 2,564 92
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes 165 155
Net Income 1,435 696 2,564 247
Earnings Per Share – Basic:
Net Income per share from Continuing Operations $ 0.19 $ 0.07 $ 0.34 $ 0.01

Net Income per share from Discontinued Operations

0.02 0.02
Net Income per share – Basic $ 0.19 $ 0.09 $ 0.34 $ 0.03
Earnings Per Share – Diluted:
Net Income per share from Continuing Operations $ 0.18 $ 0.07 $ 0.33 $ 0.01

Net Income per share from Discontinued Operations

0.02 0.02
Net Income per share – Diluted $ 0.18 $ 0.09 $ 0.33 $ 0.03
Weighted Avg Number of Common Shares – Basic 7,704 7,458 7,652 7,429
Weighted Avg Number of Common Shares – Diluted 7,916 7,655 7,883 7,617
Dividends Declared Per Common Share $ 0.07 $ 0.07 $ 0.14 $ 0.14
Selected Balance Sheet Data
in Thousands
(Unaudited)

As of
August 2, 2014

As of
January 31, 2014

Cash & Marketable Securities $ 28,007 $ 27,107
Current Assets $ 66,557 $ 65,034
Total Assets $ 79,058 $ 77,964
Current Liabilities $ 8,617 $ 9,892
Shareholders’ Equity $ 69,221 $ 66,614
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjustments in Thousands
(Unaudited)
Three-Months Ended Six-Months Ended
August 2, 2014 August 3, 2013 August 2, 2014 August 3, 2013
GAAP based results as reported:
Net Income $ 1,435 $ 696 $ 2,564 $ 247
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Product Replacement Costs 423
Non-GAAP Net Income $ 1,435 $ 696 $ 2,564 $ 670
GAAP based results as reported:
EPS -diluted $ 0.18 $ 0.09 $ 0.33 $ 0.03
Non-GAAP adjustments:
Product Replacement Costs 0.06
Non-GAAP EPS – diluted $ 0.18 $ 0.09 $ 0.33 $ 0.09

About Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of specialty high tech printing systems and data acquisition systems. Products include color label printers and consumables sold under the QuickLabel Systems brand as well as rugged printers for aerospace and defense applications and data acquisition products sold under the Astro-Med brand. Astro-Med, Inc. is a member of the Russell Microcap® Index. Additional information is available by visiting www.Astro-MedInc.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Information included in this news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but rather reflect our current expectations concerning future events and results. These statements may include the use the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “likely,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including those concerning growth through acquisitions, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014 and subsequent filings Astro-Med makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The reader is cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this news release.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measure

In addition to financial measures prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), this press release also contains the Non-GAAP financial measures, Non-GAAP net income and diluted EPS. The Company believes that the inclusion of these non-GAAP financial measures in this press release helps investors to gain a meaningful understanding of changes in the Company’s core operating results, and also can help investors who wish to make comparisons between Astro-Med and other companies on both a GAAP and a non-GAAP basis. Astro-Med’s management uses these non-GAAP measures, in addition to GAAP financial measures, as the basis for measuring its core operating performance and comparing such performance to that of prior periods and to the performance of its competitors. These measures are also used by the Company’s management to assist with their financial and operating decision making.

Source: Astro-Med, Inc.

Astro-Med, Inc
Joseph P. O’Connell, 800-343-4039
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer