Partnership offers next generation internet postage to the enterprise customer

Boston, Mass. - February 24, 2000 - Escher Group Ltd, the world's leading provider of advanced technologies for postal authorities and Ascom Mailing Systems (Switzerland), a leading provider of quality mailing systems and equipment, today announced a strategic partnership. Combining their respective technologies and industry expertise, Escher and Ascom will develop innovative and competitive PC-based postage solutions for large businesses and volume mailers. Escher will integrate its recently launched RiposteDispatch™ Internet postage solution with Ascom's SAFE™ (Secure Authenticating Funds Engine) technology to create a postage solution offering the highest degree of fraud and fund protection.

"As we extend our applications to the enterprise customer, we are very pleased to partner with Ascom Mailing Systems," commented a spokesperson for Escher. "Our expertise in providing advanced technologies and eCommerce solutions to the postal market combined with Ascom's experience in the enterprise market make this a winning partnership for customers worldwide."

Tailored to meet the requirements of the enterprise customer, Escher's RiposteDispatch for Ascom Mailing Systems allows employees to purchase and print postage directly from their PCs, choosing from a full selection of image-rich indicia. These indicia can incorporate logos or custom greetings, turning any mail piece into a powerful marketing tool. The solution's budgeting and charge-back accounting features provide detailed reporting for accurate tracking of postage use, enabling companies to monitor and control purchase activity.

"We are delighted to join forces with Escher Group, and together provide our customers an unparalleled combination of technology and service for easy-to-use, cost-effective PC-based postage solutions," commented Patrick Nangle, CEO of Ascom Mailing Systems. "With the combination of our technological strengths and our understanding of the needs of mailers and postal authorities, we look forward to continued success in the mailing industry."

Both companies will be showcasing the combined postal solution this week at CeBIT 2000, held February 24-March 1 in Hannover, Germany.

About Escher Group, Limited

Escher Group Limited is a leading provider of distributed transaction processing and data management solutions and services. The company offers a business-to-business XML-based transaction management environment, used in thousands of locations worldwide. Since its introduction in 1993, Riposte®, Escher's flagship messaging solution, has grown to become the market leader in post office counter automation.

Trademarks: WebRiposte and Riposte are trademarks or registered trademarks of Escher Group, Limited in the United States and/or other countries. All other product names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact Information:

Escher Group Limited
information@eschergroup.com