SATO, a leader in barcode printing, labeling, and EPC/RFID solutions, has announced the acquisition of Argox Information Co., Ltd., a major manufacturer of barcode printers, barcode scanners, and portable terminals, making Argox a member of the SATO Group of Companies.

Founded in 1996, Argox became one of the world's leading design and manufacturers of low cost and entry level thermal printers that fulfill the application demands of emerging and industrial markets for cost effective, reliable products. Ever expanding its market influence Argox has focused on China, Brazil, Turkey, and is today tracking to become a main provider of auto-ID solutions in countries such as India, Russia and South Africa.

"SATO adopted a holding company structure on Oct.  3 of this year and as a result realized many benefits which include: strengthened profitability, growth potential, advancements in technology innovations, and to make investments into new and/or growing businesses," stated Kaz Matsuyama, president & CEO of SATO Holdings Corp.  "The acquisition of Argox exemplifies our mission and compliments the business models of both Argox and SATO alike."

"SATO will continue to escalate its expansion of business into emerging markets which includes the strengthening of a label production facility for printer consumables in Poland, and to complete simultaneous acquisitions of label production companies in China, Argentina, and Brazil. We believe we will be able to fully enjoy the strategic relationships between those investments in addition to this important Argox acquisition."

To ensure the continuity of business, Argox will continue its operations as an independent entity, reporting to SATO Holdings Corp. Going forward, SATO and Argox will leverage strategic benefits from each other such as cooperative relationships in product development and reduction in developmental costs. The current management of Argox will remain in place and as mentioned both companies plan to operate independently with a "strategically complimentary relationship" to ensure that both companies take full advantage of their strengths.

SATO is a pioneer and leading global provider of integrated Automatic Identification and Data Collection solutions that leverage barcode and RFID technologies.