- Acquisition Broadens 3M’s Cable Marking Systems in Italy and Europe -

3M announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Grafoplast S.p.A., a manufacturer of wire identification systems for the wire and cable market. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“Grafoplast’s range of electrical permanent marking products complements 3M’s existing range of tape marking system products and will help us to better serve the wire and cable markets,” said Paul D. Steece, vice president and general manager, 3M Electrical Markets Division. “Together, 3M and Grafoplast will offer a complete marking system solution for our customers globally,” said Paul Kim, marketing director, 3M Electrical Markets Division.

Grafoplast’s innovative products—from thermal printers and software to identification systems for special applications, cable holders and insulated end sleeves—serve installers, contractors and automation industries across Italy and Europe. 3M Wire Marking and Identification systems are used for marking wire and cable of all diameters, distribution panels, repair and replacement parts, wires and hoses in motorized vehicles, terminal strips, motor leads, sub-motor leads, sub-assembly leads, and control panels. Complementary acquisitions such as this support both 3M’s core electrical supplies business and its strategy to expand into adjacent markets and accelerate geographical growth.

“Combining with 3M will help to grow Grafoplast faster through 3M’s global reach, technology platforms and extensive electrical distribution,” said Silvano Piana, CEO, Grafoplast.

The 3M Electrical Markets Division designs, manufactures and markets products for electrical construction, industrial maintenance, utility and industrial power businesses, and electrical/electronic devices produced by original equipment manufacturers. Products include electrical and electronic specialty insulating tapes; power cable splices and terminations (featuring cold- and heat-shrink technologies); connectors; electrical wire connectors, terminals and tools; wire marking products, underground/underwater electrical system products, and electrical diagnostic and detection products.

About Grafoplast S.p.A.

Founded in 1963, Grafoplast is an Italian leading company that develops and markets innovative identification systems for the industrial and building automation. Grafoplast marking systems are available for all kinds of cables, wires, and for electrical components and available in all major European countries. Grafoplast is headquartered in Predosa, Italy and employs approximately 90 people.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 79,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

3MMedia Contact:Donna Fleming Runyon, 651-736-7646orInvestor Contacts:Matt Ginter, 651-733-8206orBruce Jermeland, 651-733-1807