Panagraph CEO Mark Astone Purchases Company

May 9, 2005 -- Panagraph Inc (www.panagraph.com), a Fresno-based strategic marketing and communications firm, announced that its chief executive officer, Mark Astone, has purchased the company from its partners to become the sole owner. The deal positions Astone to aggressively pursue the company’s continued growth and expansion into new markets.

“I’m very excited about the purchase of Panagraph and what it means for the future of the company,” said Astone. “Panagraph is a recognized leader in providing meaningful marketing and communications support for organizations across a variety of industries and interests. I look forward to building upon the success we have achieved for our clients as we expand our presence and expertise into new markets and renew our focus on growth in the Central Valley.”

Headquartered in Fresno since 1976, Panagraph’s client base extends worldwide and represents businesses across a wide variety of industries as well as nonprofits, municipalities and government agencies. Under his ownership, Astone plans to establish a physical presence for Panagraph in markets where the company has developed a strong clientele and demand for its services, including San Diego and Sacramento as well as other possible locations.

Astone joined Panagraph in 1997 as the vice president of business development and and rose to become CEO of the company 1999. Under his leadership Panagraph has achieved seven times growth and has won numerous awards including the Bee’s “Business in Excellence Award” in 2002. Additionally, Astone led Panagraph’s expansion into technology and retail sectors. He purchased Panagraph from its partners, John and Brooke Boogaert, Vern Crow, and Paula and Steve Farris. All of the partners will remain with the company as senior staff.

About Panagraph
Panagraph, Inc. continues to challenge traditional advertising and communication methods through their creative solutions, sound experience and professional leadership along with their innovative approach that delivers bottom-line results for its client base.

With over 29 years of experience in designing marketing and communications programs, strategies and material, Panagraph continues to grow, rapidly becoming one of the leading strategic marketing firms. Headquartered in Fresno, California, Panagraph employs a team of responsive, talented and dedicated professionals and has numerous in-house capabilities that bring added value to each client.