Rohde & Schwarz to assume direct responsibility for North American sales and support

March 19, 2004 Columbia, MD -- As of June 1, 2004, test and measurement electronics manufacturer Rohde & Schwarz will assume direct responsibility for the sales and service of all its products in North America. Previously, Rohde & Schwarz test and measurement (T&M) products were distributed and serviced in the United States and Canada by Tektronix, Inc. in a relationship dating back to 1993.

North America is a key growth market for Rohde & Schwarz and this change reflects the company's intensified commitment to the American market, the company said in a press statement. By taking direct responsibility for its T&M products in the United States, Rohde & Schwarz aims to provide customers with direct, fast local support. This will improve responsiveness to complex market requirements including product development specific to the U.S. market.

The wholly owned subsidiary Rohde & Schwarz, Inc. will be responsible for sales, support, and distribution of all products in North America. The U.S. subsidiary has sold and supported Rohde & Schwarz broadcasting and communications products for the past 25 years. In addition, a team of development engineers has been based in Beaverton, OR, for the last 10 years. In 2003 Rohde & Schwarz took ownership from Tektronix of all service & calibration functions in the United States, including acquiring the Tektronix service equipment and personnel.

"Tektronix did an excellent job, and we've had a mutually beneficial relationship," according to Rohde & Schwarz America CEO Wolfgang Schmittseifer, "but as a manufacturer, we need the close customer contact in order to continue to stay ahead of the curve with needs-focused solutions."