Atlas Copco strengthens focus on Chicago Pneumatic brand

Stockholm, Sweden, February 13, 2009: Atlas Copco’s Industrial Technique business area has decided to merge its Chicago Pneumatic Vehicle Service and Industrial divisions. Creating significant customer benefits, the reorganization follows other measures within the Group to leverage the strength of the Chicago Pneumatic brand on a global scale.

The manufacturing, logistics and purchasing resources of both divisions will be combined within the Tooltec division. The commercial resources will be combined within the new organization, dedicated to the success of Chicago Pneumatic in all its markets. The organizational change, in effect as of March 1, 2009, offers significant synergies, particularly in the areas of product development and administration.

“The creation of one focused organization will result in a stronger Chicago Pneumatic, serving customers in the vehicle service, light industrial and MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) market segments more efficiently,” says Mats Rahmström, Business Area President. “The change will strengthen our sales force and help us achieve a market leading position in Europe, the Americas and Asia.”

During 2008, Chicago Pneumatic became the second brand within the Group to be used globally in all business areas, complementing the Atlas Copco brand in selected market segments to reach a wider group of customers. Chicago Pneumatic tools for the construction industry were launched, as were compressors building on the characteristics of the brand; high performance and durability. Sales offices for Chicago Pneumatic were opened in Russia, Central Europe, Africa and Asia.