ANN ARBOR, MI - 21 March 2003 - Flint Ink, the world's largest privately-owned ink manufacturer, has announced an alliance with CGM Security Solutions, a manufacturer of brand validation and security products, to develop products designed to improve protection capabilities for brand owners. CGM will consult with Flint Ink in the development of new security products for brand owners, shippers, distribution centers and warehouse facilities. "It is estimated that nearly US$300 billion is lost worldwide every year due to unauthorized copies of products such as auto parts, pharmaceuticals, software, cosmetics and designer clothing," says Leonard Walle, Director of New Business Development for Flint Ink.  "Working with brand owners to develop a brand protection strategy that makes full use of our highly advanced ink and coatings application technologies is a natural extension of our business." CGM holds numerous patents on security devices and products as well as proprietary technology in anti-counterfeiting measures. In addition, the company has the ability to audit a brand owner's entire product supply chain so that a complete set of security measures can be implemented effectively. "By combining our areas of expertise, we can assist customers in addressing their problems in brand protection in a way that will bring real value," notes Walle. Erik Hoffer, President of CGM Security Solutions, first gained experience in theft control countermeasures during his service in the military, and has been involved with solving cargo theft issues since 1966. Hoffer observes that the technology needed for brand protection varies dramatically with the particular threat, the environment and the product that needs protection.  "There is no silver bullet," he says. "Only systems that deal directly with the problem in a layered form can offer relief." Technologies include an extensive range of media and methods. "By having a wide variety of technical platforms, the expertise to select the proper solution and then implement it on a global basis, CGM and Flint Ink are uniquely positioned to assist brand owners by developing solutions in weeks, not years," adds Hoffer. For Flint Ink, the CGM agreement represents the second alliance with companies devoted to security applications. Last May, the company announced an agreement with Keymaster Technologies, Inc. to apply their X-ray fluorescent identification system for product verification.