| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
PANOPTX EYEWEAR SEES RECORD SALES FOR FIRST HALF OF 2005 Panoptx Increasing Distribution in Snowsports and Marine Categories; National “Endless Eyewear Tour” Generating Higher Than Expected Sales at Consumer Motorcycle Rallies |
PLEASANTON, Calif. (June 7, 2005) – Panoptx Eyewear, known for its performance eyewear in the motorcycle and snowsports categories, today announced record sales in the first quarter of 2005, with the opening of 115 new accounts since January. This growth is the result of several successful initiatives, including the addition of products for the snowsports and marine categories, the hiring of new sales staff, successful retailer incentive programs and the Endless Eyewear Tour, the company’s first national grassroots initiative. The Endless Eyewear Tour, which began in March, is visiting dozens of consumer event venues and retailers, providing product demonstrations and on-site warranty services through December of this year. Panoptx has experienced significant growth in the snowsports category, with a 225% increase in sales compared to this time last year. Panoptx added sales staff with extensive experience in this category and unveiled a targeted early buy-in program for retailers at the Snowsports Industries America (SIA) show in January 2005. The motorsports category experienced a 30% increase in sales compared to the same period in 2004, due to a successful early sell-in sales program. Lastly, Panoptx “dry eye” products are holding steady reinforcing the company’s leadership in the medical category. “This year, we exceeded sales expectations due to expansion of sport-specific product lines, the addition of sales veterans and solid marketing programs,” said Bob Hall, president of Panoptx. “We are beginning to establish Panoptx in the snowsports arena, providing an alternative to traditional goggles by combining performance and fashion, while in marine, our product specifically addresses the needs of watersports enthusiasts who need to protect their eyes from sun, wind and spray. We continue to have a strong foothold in the motorsports category, which is at the heart and soul of this brand. We look forward to helping our retail partners grow their businesses as we expand the Panoptx consumer base,” Continued Hall. “Panoptx brings a refreshing point of view to wintersports eyewear,” said Erik Johnson, regional snowboard hardgoods buyer at Specialty Sports, the respected sporting goods chain in Colorado. “The company’s convertible technology provides consumers with a serious performance product that not only provides function on the slopes, but also provides fashion for après ski and street wear. Our customers appreciate this point of difference.” In the marine category, Panoptx is teaming with Scott Martin, a renowned tournament angler, who will be working on behalf of Panoptx at tournaments and retailer events throughout the country to support the marine product launch. Known for his skill and expertise in the bass fishing category, he will play a central role in product design. Established in 1997, Panoptx developed the technology that combines
the protection and performance benefits of goggles with the style of
sunglasses. Today, the company designs and manufactures superior eyewear
designed to offer the highest level of protection and comfort, especially
during outdoor and high-speed activities. Complete with filtered vents
and anti-fog lenses, Panoptx products are perfect for snow sports, motorcycle
cruising, and water sports. Panoptx full line of proprietary lenses provides
100% UV protection and most is available in prescription. Panoptx are
sold through sunglass stores, ski and sport shops, and authorized Harley
Davidson dealers. For more information, go to the Panoptx Web site at
www.panoptx.com. |
| Contacts: Ben Therrien 781-639-4924 ben@cgprpublicrelations.com |
| Jackson Hogen, Panoptx 775-323-9086 jackson@panoptx.com |