Nikon Instruments Begins Direct Sales and Technical Support in Southern California and Rocky Mountain Territories

MELVILLE, N.Y., May. 07 /PRNewswire/ --

MELVILLE, N.Y., May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Nikon Instruments, Inc. (www.nikoninstruments.com) is pleased to announce that it has begun direct sales and technical support for Nikon's BioScience Microscopes, Confocal Systems and Digital Imaging products, along with Industrial products including Industrial Microscopes, Measuring and Vision Systems, in the Southern California and Rocky Mountain territories. These regions were previously served by A.G. Heinze, Inc.

"Nikon Instruments is extremely grateful for the superb service and support that Mr. Heinze and the entire A.G. Heinze team has provided over the years," said Lee C. Shuett, Executive Vice President, Nikon Instruments. "This change has been carefully coordinated with Mr. Heinze to facilitate a smooth and seamless transition for our loyal customer base. We look forward to continuing to provide the same quality of service directly from Nikon."

"Mr. Heinze has been a valued dealer for Nikon Instruments for over 50 years," said Hajime Kosowa, Division Manager, Nikon Instruments. "With this change, Nikon Instruments is excited to announce the establishment of a new industrial direct sales department, the AGH Industrial Department, named to honor A.G. Heinze's commitment to Nikon and our customers."

Nikon Instruments began distribution on April 1, 2008, following the retirement of Greg Heinze, President of A.G. Heinze. The former A.G. Heinze, Inc. territory now directly serviced by Nikon consists of Southern California, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada and Idaho. Additionally, Nikon Instruments will retain most of the A.G. Heinze, Inc. sales representatives to support customers' measuring, biomedical and imaging requirements. Nikon Instruments will also open a new Southwest Regional office in Orange County, California. This office will provide a base of operations for the new direct sales team, regional sales administration staff and customer service personnel.

About Nikon Instruments Inc.

Nikon Instruments Inc is a world leader in the development and manufacture of optical and digital imaging technology for biomedical and industrial applications. Now in its 90th year, Nikon provides complete optical systems that offer optimal versatility, performance and productivity. Cutting-edge instruments include microscopes, precision measuring equipment, digital imaging products and software. Nikon Instruments is the microscopy and instrumentation arm of Nikon Inc., the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology. For more information, visit www.nikoninstruments.com. Product-related inquiries may be directed to Nikon Instruments at 800-52-NIKON.