Western’s diverse product portfolio and substantial market share strengthens Lastra’s position as a global supplier to the graphic arts market. Manerbio, Italy and Brookfield, CT (USA) -- Lastra SpA announced today that its USA subsidiary, Lastra America Corporation (LAC) has acquired Western Litho Plate and Supply Company, a leading supplier of litho plates, associated chemicals, and pre-press platemaking equipment. Lastra SpA President, Roberto Ziletti stated, "The acquisition of Western provides a strong platform for further expansion of our worldwide business. Western’s plate product line compliments our current offerings and the equipment business presents us with an opportunity to expand our analog prepress business into the area of CtP." Western Lithotech’s plate product line includes a full array of both analog and digital products. Of particular importance is the diverse CtP offering which includes plate products for thermal imaging at 830 and 1064 nm, visible at 488 and 532nm, and non-silver violet sensitive at 410nm. Western’s equipment lineup includes CtP platesetters specially designed for the global newspaper market coupled with an innovative line of integrated plate room equipment. Lastra America CEO, Tom Saggiomo stated, "Acquiring Western is the next logical step in building our business in the Americas. It provides all the elements to further Lastra’s goal of delivering substantial value to the graphic arts marketplace." About Western Lithotech Western Lithotech is a leading supplier of litho plates, chemicals, and equipment to the newspaper and commercial print markets. With headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri and manufacturing locations in Jacksonville, Texas and Springfield, Missouri, Western has an extensive network of sales and service professionals located around the world. For additional information visit the Western Lithotech web site at www.westernlithotech.com About Lastra Lastra SpA is the fourth largest supplier of litho plates in the world. The company was founded over 30 years ago in Manerbio, Italy by Mario Ziletti and today remains in the Ziletti family. With headquarters outside of Milan, the company currently has three plate manufacturing facilities in Italy and one in India. Lastra America is the USA subsidiary headquartered in Brookfield, Connecticut responsible for business activities in North America. For additional information visit the Lastra web site at www.lastragroup.com.