Ellman International acquires Sandstone Medical Technologies

Ellman International, Inc., a global leader in advanced radiofrequency (RF) technology for precision surgical and aesthetic procedures  today announced that it has acquired the assets of Sandstone Medical Technologies, LLC., a recognized leader in the aesthetic laser and IPL technology field. The transaction significantly enhances Ellman's presence in the aesthetic market with laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) technologies and merges Sandstone's line of affordable laser systems with Ellman's aesthetic and surgical RF product portfolio.

"Sandstone is an ideal fit to further the growth of our franchise. We have complementary businesses that focus on delivering physicians high quality, value based products and we believe we are well positioned to capitalize on this $1.8 billion and growing global market opportunity," commented Frank D'Amelio, CEO of Ellman International. He continued, "We have experienced double digit growth over the past several years due to the success of both Pelleve and our RF surgical generators.  We expect this acquisition to accelerate our growth and penetration of the aesthetic market."

Sandstone's high quality yet affordable laser and IPL portfolio fulfills a largely unmet market need for value based products at a price under $50,000 - the largest segment of the addressable market.  The Sandstone line consists of four multifunctional products:

• Cortex a laser combining CO2 and Erbium YAG,  the 2 industry standards for deep skin resurfacing and superficial rejuvenation
• Tri-Lase Q-Switched Nd:YAG & Erbium YAG Laser for treatment of tattoos and pigmented lesions as well as superficial skin rejuvenation
• Apex IPL & Erbium YAG Laser for hair reduction, acne, vascular and pigmented lesions and skin rejuvenation
• Cheveux Diode Laser for permanent hair reduction

Sandstone's founder and President, Mark Rohrer, has joined the Ellman management team as Executive Vice President, Aesthetics.  "The combination of Sandstone's products with Ellman's strong domestic sales and marketing team and extensive international distribution network will be great for the customers that Ellman is targeting," commented Rohrer.

"The Sandstone acquisition is an attractive investment opportunity as it positions Ellman to lead the value priced laser market segment and broadens the company's product offering across their global distribution network," said Gordon Pan, Partner and Chairman at Baird Capital Partners. "The addition of the Sandstone products supports Ellman's long term growth strategy."

D'Amelio further commented, "We are unique in our new position in the market with a product offering that no other company can rival - non-invasive skin tightening with the Pelleve Wrinkle Reduction System, the surgical capabilities of our RF Surgical Systems and now the multiple applications of the Sandstone line of lasers and IPL.  This is a very exciting time for Ellman and this is only the first of a multi-stage growth strategy."