HUDSON, N.H., Dec. 10 -- Presstek says they have signed an agreement with Kodak Polychrome Graphics (KPG) -- Japan under which KPG will acquire exclusive rights to sell products using Presstek's chemical- free thermal plate technology in Japan. KPG-Japan will sell the products through its own dealer network and under its own brand name. The program is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2002. President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Hallman said, "Presstek's goal is to optimize the distribution of products we think are ideal for the Japanese market. We believe our Dimension platesetter and chemical-free thermal plates will fill Japan's demand for systems that are environmentally friendly, small and compact in design, and that provide efficient performance. We also believe that KPG-Japan has the customer access and the manufacturing capacity that will enable this objective to be met. Presstek is pleased to initiate what we hope will be a long and mutually beneficial relationship with KPG.'' Presstek, Inc. is a leading developer of digital laser imaging and chemistry-free plate technologies for the printing and graphic arts industries. Marketed to world-leading press manufacturers and directly to end users, Presstek's patented DI, CTP and plate products eliminate photographic darkrooms, film and toxic processing chemicals, reduce the printing turnaround time and lower the production costs. The company's Lasertel subsidiary supplies it with the valuable resources necessary for its next generation laser imaging devices.