Boston, MA and Buffalo, NY – 10 May 2005 - Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services (BVCPS), a world leader in consumer product testing, inspection, and auditing services is pleased to announce the acquisition of US-based Curtis-Straus LLC, an industry leader providing testing services for a wide range of products. Curtis-Straus LLC, which is based in Littleton, Massachusetts, US, is the fourth acquisition made by Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services in the past twenty-four months.

Established in 1996, Curtis-Straus offers a wide range of testing services and certifications in the areas of EMC (electromagnetic compatibility), Product Safety (NRTL), Telecom/TCB (Telecommunications Certification Body), NEBS (Network Equipment Building Systems) and CE Marking. As part of BVCPS, Curtis-Straus will be able to provide their clients, which include many global telecommunications and consumer electronics manufacturers, with direct access to comprehensive testing, certification and inspection services located in close proximity to manufacturing and engineering centers.

Strategically, the acquisition of Curtis-Straus increases the presence and capabilities of BVCPS’ electrical and electronic services in North America, and complements its existing global capabilities in electrical and electronic testing, certification and inspection, which also includes facilities in Europe and Asia. As Kevin O’Brien, BVCPS President stated, "Expanding our services in the E & E marketplace demonstrates our commitment to offer global solutions to our manufacturing and retail clients through industry leadership, proven capability and a commitment to excellence. Bringing Curtis-Straus into the BVCPS network is an important step in making this vision a reality."

Curtis-Straus’ customers will gain enhanced access to worldwide conformity assessment and quality services, particularly in the Pacific Rim and Europe where BVCPS has a strong presence. Jim Lewis, a Curtis-Straus founder said, "Curtis-Straus is famous for its customer focus. By joining BVCPS, which shares our customer focused vision, we will be able to extend our offerings and bring our clients the services they need to compete in today’s global marketplace."

For more information contact Mary Lou Meddaugh, Tel. 716.505.3524, Email. mary-lou.meddaugh@us.bureauveritas.com
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