Multicard: News

Identive Group Further Expands its Multicard Brand; Rockwest Changes its Name to Multicard

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 14:00:00 GMT

SANTA ANA, California, ISMANING, Germany and DENVER, Colorado, September 22, 2010

Identive Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: INVE; Frankfurt Stock Exchange: INV), a provider of products, services and solutions for the security, identification and RFID industries, today announced the expansion of its signature Multicard brand into the United States. Following its acquisition by Identive in April of this year, RockWest Technology Group today announced that it will adopt the name of Multicard, joining with sister companies in Europe and Australia.

The U.S. operations of Multicard provide integrated credentialing and identity management solutions for the education, government, healthcare and gaming markets. The Company's secure ID solutions include photo-identification, credential issuance, integrated emergency management and electronic security systems. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Multicard U.S. also has offices in Los Angeles, California; Phoenix, Arizona; and Albuquerque, New Mexico.

"We are proud to announce our name change to Multicard and to align ourselves more closely with the Multicard family of companies," said George Levy, president of Multicard U.S. "The Multicard brand stands for significant expertise in the advanced design, manufacturing and issuance of secure credentials, as evidenced by the division's recent selection to provide ID management technology and services both for the German government's electronic citizen ID program and Rabobank's employee cashless payment scheme. As a Multicard company, we will be able to offer our customers the benefit of a global view of state-of-the-art, integrated security and ID solutions while maintaining and expanding the local presence we have enjoyed for many years."

"RockWest has built a strong business and an impressive reputation in ID systems, making it the ideal platform for the launch of Multicard in the U.S. Like our other Multicard operations in Australia, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands, RockWest brings substantial expertise in providing secure ID management solutions and services, along with a unique understanding of the U.S. ID management and credentialing market. As a member of our Multicard division, they can support Multicard's expansion to additional regions and markets in the U.S. and help advance Multicard's global brand in identity management solutions," said Ayman S. Ashour, chairman and chief executive officer of Identive Group.

About Multicard
Multicard, a business unit of Identive Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: INVE; FSE: INV), is a worldwide supplier of card solutions for secure identification programs, with in-house capabilities for credential issuance, personalization and fulfillment services for the consumer, government, education, healthcare and corporate markets. Multicard offers ID systems management and engineering services as well as full implementation and program management. Multicard also is a provider of enrollment, emergency management and accreditation solutions using data capture equipment for ePassport and other government ID and corporate ID applications. For additional information, visit www.multicard.com.

About Identive Group
Identive Group (NASDAQ: INVE; Frankfurt Stock Exchange: INV) is an international technology group focused on building the world's signature company in secure identification-based technologies. Through its group of recognized brands, Identive provides leading-edge products and solutions in the areas of physical and logical access control, identity management and RFID systems to governments, commercial and industrial enterprises and consumers. The organization's growth model is based on a combination of disciplined acquisitive development and strong technology-driven organic growth from its member companies. For additional info visit: www.identive-group.com.

Contacts:
United States:
Jessica Haggerty, 303 477-3338 ext 118, jhaggerty@multicard.com
Darby Dye, +1 949 553-4251, ddye@identive-group.com

Europe:
Fabien B. Nestmann, +41 44 839 7007, fnestmann@identive-group.com

Multicard Manager launched in Australia: manage your ID online

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Multicard’s personalised ID management platform is easy; and uniquely yours

South Brisbane – 20 August, 2010 – Multicard, a globally recognised supplier of specialised card solutions for secure identification programs, announced today the Australian market launch of its unique solution for managing ID applications: “Multicard Manager”

At the core of Multicard Manager is the company’s exclusive online card management platform, upon which Multicard develops customised, self-managed solutions for consumer, government and corporate customers. Added to this are a flexible array of credential issuance and fulfilment services, together with expert knowledge and industry experience. The result is a structured and manageable solution for ID applications, customized for your environment. Additionally, Multicard Manager offers all the hallmarks of a premium service, including full implementation and program management assistance, coupled with strong technical and after sales support.

“Multicard is recognized as a global leader in web-based ID issuance and compliance management and is also one of the largest suppliers of contactless smart cards and readers, having been at the forefront of this technology since 2003. In Australia, we are an issuing body for the Maritime Security ID Card, and provide the ID management platform for the likes of Queensland Rail. As such, Multicard is the choice provider in Australia for online ID issuance,” said Scott Austin, Managing Director of Multicard Australia.

Launched in Australia in 2009, Multicard is helping organisations throughout the country to take secure access control and web-based card management to a new level, using online, purpose built, in-house solutions. From online application and card payment, through to contactless smart card management and reporting, Multicard’s solutions are designed to function in both fixed [corporate] and mobile environments. In particular, Multicard is well suited for situations where ID credentials are issued based on user-determined criteria. For example, Multicard can support government and corporate applications with full criminal history or financial background checking and document verification services.

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Multicard received first order for delivery of e-payment labels to Rabobank employees for contactless electronic payment

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Oud-Beijerland, the Netherlands - August 19, 2010

Multicard, a business unit of Identive Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: INVE, FSE: INV), today announced that it has been selected by Rabobank to provide personalization and fulfillment services for the Dutch bank's latest application of its MiniTix cashless e-payment solution. ulticard will manage product delivery, encoding and customer support for a program that allows Rabobank's employees to make cashless payments using the e-paymentlabels on their mobile phones.

Rabobank's MiniTix solution provides a more convenient alternative to the "chipknip" electronic cash system currently used throughout the Netherlands. Like chipknip, MiniTix is intended for small retail payments where credit card fees do not make economic sense. The MiniTix virtual wallet can be managed over the Internet rather than having to be loaded with value at special banking terminals, and payments can be made using a mobile phone or a contactless token such as a key fob or wristband.

Currently Rabobank is allowing its employees to use their MiniTix accounts to make purchases at canteens and cafeterias in the workplace. Over time the bank plans to sign up additional merchants and facilities such as football stadiums to participate in the program, at which time employees will be able to use their existing phone stickers or a more portable RFID token to pay for food, beverages, event programs and the like.

"Rabobank is taking the lead in introducing some of Europe's most innovative schemes for contactless and mobile payments. We are very pleased to once again work with Rabobank to bring the convenience and security of MiniTix to Rabobank employees," said Pieter Kooistra, chief executive officer of Multicard NL.

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Multicard to Supply Secure IT Kits under German Federal Government’s Electronic ID Program

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Total agreement valued at over 4.4 million EUR

Multicard GmbH, a business unit of Identive Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: INVE, FSE: INV), an identity management systems integrator and solutions provider, announced today that its proposal for the design and supply for 317,050 Secure IT kits, has been selected under the new electronic identification program managed by Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior (“Bundesministerium des Innern”).

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Multicard Australia supports the Web ID Management and Card Personalisation services for the Reunite Service programme.

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

Multicard Australia is proud to announce the involvement behind the Web ID Issuance and Card / Wrist Strap Management Solution deployed by Reunite Service in Australia. Apply for a uniquely numbered wrist strap for your child now and Reunite Service ID Card through www.reuniteservice.com.au. See the videos below covering the launch at Australia Zoo.

Rockwest Technology Group and ID Group Announce Partnership

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 14:00:00 GMT

DENVER, CO (FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE) - RockWest Technology Group (RTG), a leading sales and service integrator of photo identification and security systems has reached an agreement with ID Group of Jackson, Mississippi to sell and service ID Group’s BadgePass family of identity management systems in the Southwest.

Steve Benitez, Business Development Manager for RTG says, “The BadgePass products offer significant synergy between RTG’s credential management systems and ID Group’s tracking and identity management applications. BadgePass is more than just a Visitor management System, it’s an integrated Security Suite that will revolutionize the way our customers think of secure identity.” ID Group’s BadgePass identity management software; combined with RTG’s identity management integration solutions which include access/security, cameras, printers, visitors’ licenses or passports are captured and a personalized ID issued in seconds.

Phillip King, ID Group’s President said, “The ID Group team is excited to work with RTG and we have great confidence in the quality of integration and support that RTG will provide customers with our BadgePass Solutions. We feel the professionals who use BadgePass will see the value of our solution and experience positive results.”

About RockWest Technology Group

RockWest Technology Group is a full-service identification and security provider based in Denver, Colorado with offices in Los Angeles, Phoenix, Albuquerque and Denver. RockWest Technology Group supplies, photo-identification, credential issuance, emergency management solutions and electronic security systems to the education, government, casino and healthcare markets and is committed to serving end-users with exceptional customer service, an expansive product line, on-site service and unparalleled industry experience. RockWest Technology Group is part of a nationwide network of Identification Systems experts who provide a blanket of protection and service across the United States. For more information visit www.rockwesttech.com. RockWest Technology Group is a member of Identive Group (NASDAQ: INVE; Frankfurt Stock Exchange: INV), a leading provider of products, services and solutions for the security, identification and RFID industries. www.identive-group.com

About ID Group

Founded in 1976, ID Group has been a prominent figure in identification and security solutions in Mississippi and Louisiana for more than 30 years. In 2004, we started developing our own line of software to better serve the needs of our clients. As part of ID Group’s commitment to its customers, we are constantly looking ahead to offer and develop the latest in security and identification solutions. As a systems integrator and a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, our customers rely on us to help them find a solution that best meets their needs. From basic identification systems to high security access control and video surveillance, we help to build customized systems at a price that fits any budget.

Bluehill ID expands its Multicard brand into the Netherlands, Yoonison announces name change to Multicard

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

St. Gallen & Oud-Beijerland, 19 Oct 2009 – Bluehill ID today announced the expansion of its signature Multicard brand into the Netherlands. After Bluehill ID’s acquisition of Yoonison B.V. earlier in 2009, the Dutch company today announced that it will adopt the name of Multicard, aligning with sister companies in Europe and Australia.

Multicard’s operations in the Netherlands (www.multicard.nl) specializes in payment man-agement and identification solutions with a focus on the Benelux and German markets. The company pioneered the Mybility® system, offering payment systems used to manage public transport subsidies for disabled and elderly people in the Netherlands. Multicard in the Netherlands has been a leading advocate in promoting Near Field Communication (NFC) tech-nology for applications in payment systems. They have significant experience in the personali-zation of identification devices such as cards and NFC enabled mobile phones. Multicard has established market leadership in the Dutch subsidized public transport and fuel payment markets by managing the related data flows and organizing additional services required by users and operators. The company’s roots date back to 1989 and the company has focused on payment solutions and identity management since 1997.

“Yoonison is an excellent addition to the Multicard family. Their tremendous strength in payment systems and focus on understanding customer needs and delivering realistic reliable solutions for the management of transactions adds important expertise to Bluehill ID in general and to Multicard in particular. Our Multicard companies have separately been building leading edge web based ID management services for government and private clients and with the technological strength of our Dutch team, this will further help in establishing Multicard as a global brand in identity management web hosted solutions,” stated Ayman S. Ashour, CEO of Bluehill ID.

Pieter Kooistra, Founder and CEO of Multicard in the Netherlands commented, “Multicard is an established international brand and represents an excellent opportunity to further expand our business into new markets and leverage the combined strength of the group. We built the Yoonison brand name over many years to signify our focus on solutions, and it was very important for us to see that our sister companies at Multicard are also focused on integrating products and services to offer our customers complete solutions. We move forward even stronger and continue our commitment of delivering our customers leading edge solutions.”

All the main product and service brands of Yoonison including Mybilitliy, Mybility Fuel, Yoonidata and Cashless Payment shall continue under the Multicard brand. The official name change to Multicard goes into effect immediately.

About Multicard
Multicard is a worldwide supplier of card solutions for secure identification programs with in-house capabilities for credential issuance, personalization and fulfillment services for the consumer, government and corporate customers. Multicard offers ID systems management and engineering services as well as full implementation and program management. Multicard is also a provider of enrollment and ac-creditation solutions using data capture equipment for ePassport and other government ID and corporate ID applications.

About Bluehill ID
Bluehill ID AG (www.bluehill-id.com) is an international operating company with headquarters in Switzer-land and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ). Bluehill ID is dedi-cated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies. These technologies are used in the fields of security, identification, tracking and further growing applica-tions. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with sustainable organic growth from its Group of companies.

Contact
Thijs van Alebeek
Multicard Netherlands B.V. (formerly Yoonison)
Tel: +31 186 63 65 30
Email: t.van.alebeek@multicard.nl

Fabien Nestmann
Bluehill ID AG
Tel: +41 44 783 8043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Multicard launches innovative card solution in Augsburg's new Impuls Arena

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Augsburg - Multicard has successfully completed the installation of its advanced card technology in the newly built FC Augsburg Impuls Arena. Together with the two energy suppliers of Augsburg, Stadtwerke Augsburg and Lechwerke, Multicard made what started as a shared vision into a reality, with spectators now having the ability to use three different customer cards inside the arena.

Multicard General Manager Jurgen Muller stated, "This was a successful start to the 2009 season for 1. FC Augsburg and Multicard. Over 19,000 enthusiastic fans were pleased with the smooth entrance into the arena and the ease of payment within the stadium. Upwards of seventy payment points within the stadium are programmed to accept all cards, including the newly issued easyliving combination cards supplied by Multicard! We are delighted to see our card technology delivering such an improved customer experience."

As a specialist in card technology, Multicard seamlessly integrated Legic® and other technologies onto one card. This allows three different stadium systems to be used by a cardholder with the various technologies. "Multicard managed the acceptance of the different customer cards - the easyliving card, KAROCARD, and 1.FC A Card - in the Arena. It is the first time three different cards have been used in a closed payment system and the first time a stadium based its card system on Legic® technology", commented Jurgen Muller.

Since the payment applet had not yet been installed on the thousands of already distributed KAROCARDS, Multicard offered to update visitor's KAROCARDS right before the match. In order to do so, multiple info points were installed inside the stadium allowing the cards to be newly encoded within seconds.

Markus Albrecht, Head of Engineering at Multicard commented enthusiastically, "Our team has worked hard over the last months to ensure the integration of the different cards with the stadium's backend systems. While behind the scenes we managed a complex process that enabled the three independent systems to inter-operate, the fans enjoyed a convenient and user-friendly solution. Taking this from an original concept sketched on paper, to a reality in a world class stadium is something we are all very proud of!".

The KAROCARD and easyliving customer cards issued by the local energy suppliers in Augsburg are prepared to easily add further applications in and outside the Impuls Arena. New applications have already been added by some users and the opportunities for future ones are endless. This offers cardholders the very practical benefit that they only have one plastic card to carry with them, instead of needing a different card for each application.

About Multicard AG

Multicard AG (www.multicard.com) is a worldwide supplier of card solutions for secure identification programs with in-house capabilities for credential issuance, personalization and fulfillment services for the consumer, government and corporate customers. Multicard offers ID systems management and engineering services as well as full implementation and program management. Multicard is also a provider of enrollment and accreditation solutions using data capture equipment for enrollment of ePassport and other government ID and corporate ID applications.

About Bluehill ID AG

Bluehill ID AG (www.bluehill-id.com) is an international operating company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ). Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies. These technologies are used in the fields of security, identification, tracking and further growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with sustainable organic growth from its Group companies.

Contact
Hulya Damar
Multicard AG
Tel: +49 7720 9969 65
Email: h.damar@multicard.com
Fabien Nestmann
Bluehill ID
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Bluehill ID expands its Multicard brand into Australia. Fastcards Pty Ltd announces name change to Multicard

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

St. Gallen / Brisbane - Bluehill ID today announces the global expansion of its signature Multicard brand into the Asia-Pacific region. After Bluehill ID's recent announcement of the acquisition of Fastcards Pty Ltd, the Australian entity today announced that it will adopt the trading name of Multicard, aligning with sister companies Multicard in Switzerland and Germany.

Multicard Australia (www.multicard.com.au) is an identity and accreditation company deploying hardware and software solutions. It is an official issuing body of the Maritime Security ID Card of Australia and a provider of ID and RFID solutions to event organizers, government, mining and the industrial sector throughout Australia. Multicard Australia offers a unique patented web based credential management solution deployed in conjunction with RFID tagged credentials at events such as the World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney.

"We are extremely pleased that Fastcards is joining the Multicard family as we see strong demand for their capabilities on an international scale. The combined Multicard will offer even more services and expertise in ID management, especially in software and contactless card applications while also achieving greater operational synergies," stated John Rogers, Executive Vice President of Transition Management and Acquisition Integration at Bluehill ID.

Scott Austin, Founder and President of Multicard Australia commented, "Multicard has developed an excellent track record over the last 20 years. Being part of the Group will strengthen our ability to deliver our customers world class solutions and be very responsive to market needs in the Asia-Pacific region."

About Multicard
Multicard (www.multicard.com) is a worldwide supplier of card solutions for secure identification programs with in-house capabilities for credential issuance, personalization and fulfillment services for the consumer, government and corporate customers. Multicard offers ID systems management and engineering services as well as full implementation and program management. Multicard is also a provider of enrollment and accreditation solutions using data capture equipment for ePassport and other government ID and corporate ID applications.

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG (www.bluehill-id.com) is an international operating company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ). Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies. These technologies are used in the fields of security, identification, tracking and further growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with sustainable organic growth from its Group of companies.

Contact

Scott Austin
Multicard Australia (formerly Fastcards)
Tel: +61 73 01 36 294
Email: scott@fastcards.com.au

Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Multicard releases new Multiapplication Microcontroller Card

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Wallisellen and Villingen-Schwenningen, June 30, 2009 - Multicard AG today announced the successful launch of a new pioneering application of contactless and dual interface microcontroller technology. In a global first, Multicard has utilized combined different high frequency contactless technologies on a single IC.

The new card utilizes a single processor for both a LEGIC® applet and the MIFARE® technology to enable the use of a single identification credential in different environments that also accommodates legacy installations. The rollout of the new cards with access control, time and attendance, cashless payment and NFC has been successfully completed and first deliveries to customers of the dual interface contact / contactless cards have already been made. Significant orders for a contactless version have been received and will be implemented in the coming weeks.

The system architecture was pioneered by Cosmo.ID. New LEGIC® card-in-card solutions allow for the storage of standard LEGIC® applications, such as those for employee cards on a single dual interface smart card. LEGIC® card-in-card solutions also permit the integration of contactless multi-applications on virtual LEGIC transponders in contactless or dual interface smart cards, thus enabling the combination of secure physical and logical access systems on a single card.

Jürgen Müller, Managing Director of Multicard GmbH, commented: "The new card has been developed to integrate various secure applications on one independent processor to enable customers to make full use of a true multi-application smart card solution, based on a high level of independence and security. The ingenuity of the Multicard system is the option of being able to run practically unlimited new and independent applications on one card". Müller added "our consulting arm at Cosmo.ID did a very impressive job on the system architecture which helped us enormously. The success of this launch was only possible with the tremendous cooperation of our sister companies within the Bluehill ID Group as well as our long standing partners including Legic and NXP"

The new card is available in conjunction with the complete personalization process delivered through service fulfillment.

About Multicard
Multicard is a leading supplier of multifunctional smart card solutions for secure identification programs with in-house capabilities for credential issuance, personalization and fulfillment services for the consumer, government and corporate customers. Multicard offers ID systems management and engineering services as well as full implementation and program management. Multicard is also a provider of online enrollment services and portable biometric data capture equipment for enrollment of ePassport and other government ID and corporate ID applications.

About Cosmo.ID
Cosmo ID was founded in 1997 focusing on smart card system architecture and data structuring. Cosmo ID provides consulting services for end users in government and industry as well as consulting services to companies across the value chain of the smart card industry.

Contact

Multicard GmbH
Hülya Damar
Tel: +49 7720 9969-65
Email: h.damar@multicard.com

Bluehill ID AG
Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Mybility published positive annual report Beltax

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

At the end of last year all Beltax users in Lansingerland received a survey, in which they could indicate how satisfied they were with the service. More than half of the users responded to the survey. The results were recently discussed by the city council. The report shows very positive results. The overall satisfaction is good, which shows in an average mark of 8.6.

Beltax users where involved with transport coordinator Mybility, who took responsibility for the daily execution of the Beltax system. In future, the system should be even more consumer friendly due to the many changes have taken place.

In spite of a turbulent year, the high response rate (50.4% of all users) shows that users are very involved with Beltax. The results of the survey are very promising. The overall satisfaction resulted in a 8.6 average. Points of interest for 2009 are information services to customers and customer complaints handling. 8 respondents said to be unhappy with the handling of their complaint. 7 of the complaints were filed with the driver/transporter, 4 with the city council, and 1 with Mybility. The transport coordinator has been responsible for complaint handling as of May of last year. We expect the complaint handling will be more structured this year.

Multicard successfully deploys RFID Credential Management for World Youth Day 2008

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Over 30,000 workers, volunteers, performers and clergy were accredited for World Youth Day enjoying an efficient and secure access to all events

Sydney, Australia October 08 – World Youth Day 2008 has been a successful event for young Catholic pilgrims of the world from age 16-35 which took place in and around greater Sydney from 15th July 2008 to 20th July 2008. The event culminated with a peak attendance of almost 500,000 people at the final mass in Randwick.

In what was a world first for the Sydney WYD Organisation, RFID technology was implemented at the event across multiple operating sites. Over 30,000 RFID embedded credentials were used during the event. The ID Solution from Multicard also catered for the production and management of Vehicle access passes and day passes. The solution included a mobility application running on Rugged PDA Style Computers with inbuilt RFID readers, enabling in field verification of credentials especially within high security access zones.

A customized web based solution, secured through the WYD08 Organisations VPN, operated at multiple sites during the event issuing credentials where demanded. Credential information was generated through the WYD08 Egeria 2 solution where background check information was stored. Credentials were only passed for production through the Fastcards solution once the background check elements had been accepted.

A pre-encoded and uniquely printed RFID smart label from Alien Technology, enabled people to check in easily and quickly as the crowd was going through the portals built with Alien antennas smoothly. It proved to be an excellent crowd management system, helping to regulate traffic volume and automating the credential verification process. Every person not allowed on site was identified on LCD Screens at the check-in points and WYD08 Staff had a clearly identifiable person to assist in checking their access rights.

Every person had on their pass, different access codes corresponding to a number of defined zones and events. They were organized in a way to also facilitate visual control. Special secured zones were created and visual control was reinforced with random control with handheld readers.

"This major event has path the way for use of RFID in the future for anti-counterfeiting, time management and workforce / contractor verification " says the solution provider Scott Austin, CEO of Multicard. "We had at one time 7 Remote Accreditation Centres and Work Force Portals operating across Sydney and the product worked extremely well despite the huge number of RFID credentials that needed to be produced on the spot."

"We were able to come on board the Accreditation team with a very competitive and efficient web database solution that complied to all WYD08 requirements thanks to our experience with Maritime Security Identification cards, BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance RFID deployment and other projects" says Scott Austin.

"Involving RFID in our process has proven its efficiency. Throughout the preparation of the event, both teams have worked closely to find the best way to create an access control pass common to all users but having different access rights. Different levels of access were created to accommodate different locations, special events and zones of restrictions. All information was introduced into the WYD data base and transferred to the Fastcards-WYD database developed according to WYD needs" comments Ian Steigrad, Director, Event Planning & Operations.

RFID was essential to fulfil WYD requirements and Multicard provided an efficient, cost effective, customized solution based on their previous internal development. Event organizers can rely on a well experienced team and a complete solution for complex events with multi-facets.

About Multicard
Multicard (www.multicard.com.au) is an identification technology company focusing on personalization, programming and issuance of ID cards and credentials based in Brisbane, Australia with sister companies located in Germany and Switzerland.

Mulitcard offers a panel of services from online express ID cards delivery to à la carte ID management solutions. Our products focus on secure credential management for corporations, Governments, events as well as for mobility verification using RFID, and contact smartcard solutions including loyalty and membership cards.

For further information please contact:

Multicard
Scott Austin
Phone: +61 (7) 38444 623
Cell: +61 (0)41 0633849
Fax: +61 (7) 3846 4591
Toll Free: +61 1300 666910
Email: saustin@multicard.com.au Visit: www.multicard.com.au

Bakers Delight chose Multicard RFID event solution for its global franchisee meeting

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Over 1,000 delegates enjoy efficient access to all events!

Bakers Delight and COBS BREAD recently staged their International Conference in Cairns, Australia. More than 1200 delegates from Australia, New Zealand and Canada attended the conference including franchisees, retail staff and corporate staff.

Bakers Delight turned to Multicard to assist manage the large traffic flow of the delegates in and out of the conference plenary sessions.

Multicard Events RFID solution was deployed across seven main entries into the Cairns Convention Centre. The Multicard Events RFID Solution provided the organisation with valuable feedback on who reported to which session which will also assist in future conference planning.

Franchisee participants carried a UHF RFID Tag on their lanyard credentials which was read at entry portals made up of a reader and antennas.

Chris Caldwell, General Manager Marketing & Operational Support from Bakers Delight said "We used the RFID system to create a team based competition among the delegates to encourage participation in both plenary sessions and extra curricular activities. It was a great way of using the RFID technology to support both the event process and our marketing information system".

About Bakers Delight
Bakers Delight, the world’s most successful franchise bakery, was established in 1980 as a single bakery on Glenferrie Road in the Melbourne suburb of Hawthorn. An Australian owned company, Bakers Delight boasts over 700 bakeries employing more than 15,000 people, serving 2.5 million regular customers per week throughout Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

Bakers Delight has been a major corporate partner of the Breast Cancer Network Australia for eight years, raising almost $2.7 million within this time. Through its bakery network, the company donates approximately $143 million in bread to charities each year.

About Multicard
Multicard (www.multicard.com.au) is an identification technology company focusing on personalization, programming and issuance of ID cards and credentials based in Brisbane, Australia with sister companies located in Germany and Switzerland.

Multicard offers a panel of services from online express ID cards delivery to à la carte ID management solutions. Our products focus on secure credential management for corporations, Governments, events as well as for mobility verification using RFID, and contact smartcard solutions including loyalty and membership cards. For further information please contact:

Multicard
Scott Austin
Phone: +61 (7) 38444 623
Cell: +61 (0)41 0633849
Fax: +61 (7) 3846 4591
Toll Free: +61 1300 666910
Email: saustin@multicard.com.au Visit: www.multicard.com.au

Free Public Transport trial in Dordrecht

Tue, 19 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The city council of Dordrecht decided to start up a free public transport trial for the elderly. The council stresses the importance of mobility for the elderly and for them to be able to travel with as little barriers as possible. They can take part in this trial for the duration of one year.

All inhabitants of 65 years and over received an information letter, with instructions on applying and using the free 65+ Gemakspas. The trial runs from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010. The following conditions apply to this action:

Free travel on all Arriva busses in Dordrecht on weekdays

after 9 AM and all day on weekends;

Travel on the Arriva train (MerwedeLingeliijn between

Dordrecht and Geldermalsen) with a 40% discount. This

discount applies on weekdays after 9 AM and all day on

weekends.

Yoonison took care of the mailing to over 19,000 elderly people in Dordrecht, and will process all applications in the coming month. Yoonison provides the plastic card with personal data and a picture and sends them to the applicants on behalf of the city council.

Multicard launches successful Mybility Fuel

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

We have recently introduced Mybility Fuel, our new online ordering system. The ordering system enables faster and easier processing of new fuel and loyalty cards. Requests for plastic cards via fax, email, or mail will be a part of the past. Errors and unnecessary delays are greatly reduced.

Mybility Fuel offers many other functions in addition to ordering cards, such as;

Card management
Credit management
Insight in cards that will expire shortly
Blocking cards and requesting duplicates
Requesting reports
Tracing orders

Preferences for fuel and shop options, PIN code, and expiration date can be applied to an individual card or per set of cards, within the ordering process. Yoonison is satisfied with the successful transition to Mybility Fuel. Marketing manager Thijs van Alebeek, By automating orders from the beginning, our clients have a better insight in the complete personalization process. Until the last moment, users can apply changes to their order. Flexibility and simplicity are the two cornerstones of this new ordering system.

As of now, over 150 projects are migrated to Mybility Fuel. Soon, all fuel projects will be using the new system.

Bluehill ID reports full year results for 2008, EPS increases from EUR -0.21 in 2007 to EUR +0.025 in 2008. Bluehill ID to change structure from Investment Fund to RFID Industrial Group

Wed, 06 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Bluehill ID to Change Structure from Investment Fund to RFID Industrial Group.
St. Gallen - Bluehill ID AG (FSE: BUQ) today announced full year results for its fiscal year ending December 31, 2008. The Group consolidated revenues for the year were EUR 5.9M with a consolidated net profit of EUR 0.45M. Bluehill ID made its first acquisitions at the half year point with several others that followed at the end of the third and fourth quarters.

Bluehill ID Chief Executive Officer Ayman S. Ashour stated: "2008 was a successful starting year for us with a number of key acquisitions that enabled us to build an RFID platform with breadth in technology and geography. We will continue to execute our "Buy, Build and Grow" strategy through organic and acquisitive growth. We have demonstrated that there is a strong need for consolidation in the market and we see a good opportunity for Bluehill ID to become the signature company in the ID/RFID market. The outlook for 2009 remains positive and we will continue to raise and invest the necessary funds to pursue our ambitious growth objectives".

Financial Year 2008
Bluehill ID 2008 Key Financial Results (in accordance with IFRS):

Sales: EUR 5.9M
Consolidated net Profit: EUR 0.45M
EBITDA from operating Group companies: EUR 0.60M
Cash and short term deposits EUR 7.7M
Non-current financial assets EUR 3.4M
Earnings per share (undiluted): EUR 0.025
Earnings per share (diluted): EUR 0.024
Other income and net gain from operating investments: EUR 1.6m

With sales of EUR 5.9M, the EBIT for the Bluehill ID Group was EUR -0.1M. EBIT for the Group included consolidated EBIT from operating companies of EUR 0.4M. Other income and net gains from operating investments amounted to EUR 1.6M.

Total operating expenses in the 12 months to December 31 were EUR 4.3M. Operating expenses include acquisition related expenses, legal fees, research and development charges, salary and social security costs. Headcount increased as several key personnel additions and senior appointments were made to support Bluehill ID's continued growth plan. Fundraising related costs also contributed to operating expenses. In accordance with its structure as a fund, Bluehill ID paid to Bluehill Capital Management AG (a privately held management company that provides services to Bluehill ID, as described below) EUR 0.33M in capital raising fees. These costs were charged to equity in accordance with IFRS. In addition, Bluehill ID paid EUR 0.36M in management and success fees and issued 1.6M stock options. The options were calculated and charged to the P/L at a value of EUR 0,45M in accordance with IFRS based on the Cox-Ross-Rubinstein model. Total expenses charged to P/L related to Bluehill Capital Management were EUR 0.81M of which EUR 0.36M were in cash.

Earnings per share were EUR 0.025 (undiluted), compared to prior year earnings per share of EUR -0.21 (undiluted). Diluted earnings per share were EUR 0.024 compared to EUR -0.21 in the prior year. The Group's total equity was EUR 17.6M compared to EUR 5.9M in the prior year.

Adjusted earnings per shares exclusive of the costs of Bluehill Capital Management but allowing for direct acquisition by Bluehill ID of critical services would be EUR 0.042 and on fully diluted basis EUR 0.040.

The Group finished the year in a strong position with cash and short term deposits amounting to EUR 7.7M (compared to EUR 6.4M in 2007). The Group has no long term debt. The Group has non-trading payables relating to acquisitions of EUR 0.7M and liabilities of EUR 1.1M relating to financial leases for plant and equipment. The tangible assets amounted to EUR 1.6M. Intangible assets amounted to EUR 6.9M, including goodwill arising from acquisitions of EUR 5.9M.

"Despite the challenging economic conditions, 2008 was a year that saw Bluehill ID achieve a number of important milestones. Key acquisitions were made starting at the midway point of the year which will significantly increase Bluehill ID's technology and product portfolio. A number of product and market development projects were initiated to drive the organic growth plan of the Group. We enter 2009 confident of our foundation and the health of our company", said COO/CFO Melvin Denton-Thompson.

As referenced above, the audited consolidated results for Bluehill ID reflect partial year results for Group companies. The unaudited revenues for the Group in 2008 (not including any of the 2009 acquisitions), had all of the group companies been under its ownership for the full year, are estimated at EUR 14.5M. This figure includes approximately EUR 0.3M (unaudited) in revenues that would normally be netted out as intercompany sales.

Operational Highlights 2008

Entry into new markets - geographically (Europe, USA, India, Brazil) and technology (transponders and readers, ID credential management, ePassport and National ID)
Minority and other investments - strategic investments at attractive valuations: SCM Microsystems, DEWB , exit from Primion Technology
Talent Additions - senior management team completed, key support functions added

Change Of Structure

The original statutory structure of Bluehill ID AG was that of an investment fund similar to other investment vehicles. Under the original structure, the Founders of Bluehill ID, Mountain Partners and Mr. Ayman S. Ashour, offered management services to Bluehill ID AG through a privately held management company, Bluehill Capital Management AG. Bluehill Capital Management has been compensated for its services through management and success fees and annual option grants. In addition, Bluehill Capital Management has had the right to name the majority of the Directors of the Board. The Founders received no Founders shares and remain the largest investors in the company.

With the clear success of Bluehill ID in developing into an industrial holding company employing a strategy of "buy, build and grow" rather than "buy and sell", the Board of Bluehill ID AG, based on strong recommendations from its management team, banking and legal advisors, concluded that terminating the management company structure would be in the best interest of all of the stakeholders of Bluehill ID AG.

Accordingly, Bluehill ID AG has reached an agreement to exercise its option to terminate the management agreement effective 30 June 2009, and Bluehill Capital Management has agreed to reinvest CHF 4.2M of the CHF 5m termination fee into a convertible loan to Bluehill ID. The loan will be convertible at the request of Bluehill Capital Management at CHF 2.5 per share and may be converted at the request of Bluehill ID at a CHF 1.00 per share or 33% below the average trading price 90 days prior to the conversion. Under the provisions of the termination agreements, Mr. Ayman S. Ashour and Mr. Fabien Nestmann will enter into direct agreements with Bluehill ID AG and Mountain Partners will provide Bluehill ID AG with certain support services for a further limited period until Bluehill ID AG is able to complete the building of its infrastructure.

This agreement between Bluehill ID AG and Bluehill Capital Management is subject to the approval of the Board of Mountain Partners and to the majority of the shareholders of Bluehill ID AG, excluding Mountain Partners, its affiliates and Mr. Ashour.

Business Outlook 2009
Bluehill ID expects to see significant growth in revenues from the effect of the timing of the 2008 acquisitions and the acquisitions completed during the early months of 2009 as well as organic growth from several of the companies within Bluehill ID.

The trading conditions during the first quarter have been better than expected. With the successful integration of Bluehill ID companies, significant improvement in profitability has occurred at the operating company level. Bluehill ID corporate costs, net of the management fees, have seen considerable increase as headcount grew from zero to ten employees. The central costs are expected to drop during the second half of the year with the change of structure from an investment fund to an industrial holding.

Bluehill ID expects to continue raising additional capital to fund its acquisition growth plans and has invested in a central team to successfully manage the process of acquiring, integrating and operating future acquisitions. Bluehill ID is strongly committed to protecting its investors from unnecessary dilution and is very focused on accretive acquisitions. A relatively small amount of total Bluehill ID funds can be used in start up operations or minority investments.

Annual General Meeting
The Bluehill ID Annual General Meeting will take place at 10:00am on May 25, 2009 at the Radisson SAS Hotel in Saint Gallen, Switzerland. The Bluehill ID 2008 Annual Report inclusive of the audit report from Ernst & Young is available for download.

Important Disclaimer
This press release does not represent investment, legal or taxation advice of any kind. The information contained herein is intended only as information and does not in any way constitute an offer or recommendation for the purchase of securities or any other financial instrument, or likewise the sale thereof.

To the extent that this press release contains forward-looking statements, such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to substantially differ from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond the control of Bluehill ID AG, such as but not limited to future market conditions, the behavior of other market participants, the ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses, achieve anticipated synergies and the actions of government regulators. Bluehill ID AG does not assume any responsibility relating to forward-looking statements contained in this press release Bluehill ID AG undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international operating company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ). Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies. These technologies are used in the fields of security, identification, tracking and further growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with sustainable organic growth from Group companies.

Contact

Bluehill ID AG
Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Multicard updates portfolio with Mobile ID MC 1100

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:00:00 GMT

VS- Schwenningen - Wallisellen März 2009

New MC1100 mobile enrolment system, for secure identification documents to be introduced in April

The new MC1100 is a portable image/biometric capture system designed to accommodate any laptop or PC. This durable military quality case can be set up in seconds to capture data, portraits, signatures and fingerprints.The capture devices can be to your specification. All devices are plate mounted for fast replacement in the field, even if the device model or brand has been changed.

There is a single power cord and 4 additional USB connections for added equipment such as a scanner or card printer. An optional cover allows storage of a scanner as well as the laptop. Now capture data, portraits and all biometrics in the field that are compliant to international specifications for your secure ID program simply and at a very low cost.

About Multicard

Multicard is a most flexible supplier of multifunctional smart card solutions for secure identification programs, as well as for card issuance and fulfillment services. With expertise in the consumer, government and corporate markets, Multicard is a well recognized card supplier and ID systems architect. Multicard offers lD systems management and engineering services as well as full production, personalization and item-level card issuing to the holder. In addition, Multicard provides portable biometric data capture equipment for flexible and efficient enrollment solutions. In a rapidly changing world, Multicard stays focused on your objectives. ContactMulticard GmbHHülya DamarTel.: +49 7720 9969- 65

Email: h.damar@multicard.com

Bluehill ID completes acquisition of Fastcards Pty Ltd

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Brisbane / St. Gallen - Bluehill ID AG and Australian Fastcards Pty Ltd (www.fastcards.com.au) announced today that Bluehill ID has completed the acquisition of Fastcards.

Fastcards is an identity management services provider serving government and industry clients in addition to providing RFID tracking solutions for mining and industrial applications.

Ayman S. Ashour, CEO of Bluehill ID, commented today: "Fastcards has been a pioneer in serving the Australian market with innovative outsourced identity management solutions. Scott Austin and his team have developed tremendous expertise in this area that we expect would fit well with our other group companies.

Scott Austin, Founder and President of Fastcards acknowledged: "We are well acquainted with the Bluehill ID Team and already have strong working relationships with several Group companies. We are excited about joining the Bluehill Team and believe this will open up important opportunities for our solutions and will help solidify our technology and product base particularly in RFID."

About Fastcards Pty Ltd
Fastcards Pty Ltd (www.fastcards.com.au) is an identification technology company focusing on personalization, programming and issuance of ID credentials based in Brisbane, Australia. Fastcards offers a panel of services from online express ID cards delivery to customized ID management solutions. The products focus on secure credential management for corporations, governments, events as well as for mobility verification using RFID, and contact smartcard solutions including people ID and security cards.
About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ.F/BUQ.DE; www.bluehill-id.com) Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies in the security, national identification, tracking and other growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with strong organic growth from portfolio companies.

Contact

Fastcards Pty Ltd
Scott Austin
Tel: +61 73 84 44 62 3
Email: Bluehill ID AG Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Bluehill ID Acquires Dutch Identification company Yoonison B.V.

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Oud-Beijerland / St. Gallen - Bluehill ID AG and Yoonison B.V. announced today that Bluehill ID has completed the acquisition of Yoonison B.V.

Yoonison (www.yoonison.com) specializes in identification and payment management solutions with focus on the Dutch and German markets. The company pioneered the Mybility™ system, offering solutions for managing identification and transport payment subsidies for disabled and elderly people in the Netherlands and has been a pioneer in promoting Near Field Communication (NFC) solutions for vending applications. Yoonison's roots date back to 1989 and the company has focused on ID solutions since 1997.

Ayman S. Ashour, CEO of Bluehill ID, said: "Yoonison has been a partner of Multicard for over 10 years on card issuance and personalization and also with Arygon on NFC reader technology more recently. We are very pleased that Pieter Kooistra and his team are now part of Bluehill ID and we are excited about being able to use Yoonison's experience and products in other markets."

Pieter Kooistra, Founder and President of Yoonison said: "We believe that we can accelerate our growth being a part of Bluehill ID." Kooistra added: "We liked the fact that Bluehill ID managers really understand our business and ideas. We are aligned fully with regards to our strong commitment to our customers and the passion for new and innovative technology."

About Yoonison B.V.
Yoonsion B.V., located near Rotterdam, the Netherlands, has significant experience in the personalization of identification devices such as cards and NFC enabled mobile phones. Yoonison has established market leadership in the subsidized public transport and fuel payment markets by managing the related data flows and organizing additional services required by users and operators. Yoonison's fully web based software is used by numerous customers to manage critical transactions and data storage services. Yoonison have also been a pioneer in promoting the use of NFC in vending and other payment applications.

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ.F/BUQ.DE) Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies in the security, national identification, tracking and other growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with strong organic growth from portfolio companies.

Contact

Yoonison B.V.
Pieter Kooistra
Tel: +31 18 66 36 530
Email: p.kooistra@yoonison.com

Bluehill ID AG
Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Press release: Corporate News - Contactless Smart Cards

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 14:00:00 GMT

New multifunctional customer and credit card solutions thanks to the partnership between Multicard and LEGIC®

Multicard AG, renowned general contractor in the smart card project consultancy and implementation, is expanding its product portfolio. Multicard has closed on a licence partnership with LEGIC Identsystems Ltd, the leading producer of contactless smart card technology. Therefore, the company is now offering highly developed LEGIC technology-based multifunctional customer and credit card solutions.

With this partnership, the company is reacting to the growing demand for multifunctional smart card solutions. Multicard has already successfully introduced LEGIC based contactless smart cards as customer cards with an integrated ticket for local public transport services in the town of Augsburg/Germany. Besides applications in the field of electronic fare management, Multicard is planning to use LEGIC technology in such areas as ticketing and access control.

Sandro Avanzini, Sales Manager for Multicard AG, expects the partnership to further strengthen their market position: "With LEGIC we are gaining an internationally recognised partner that is a leading figure in the realm of multifunctional smart cards and NFC solutions. The introduction of the Karocard within Augsburg's public services is without doubt merely the start of a series of promising projects with LEGIC.

"Multicard AG marks a further enrichment of our international partner network," also states Dr. Otto Eggimann, Vice President Sales and Business Development of LEGIC. "The successful realisation of the first joint projects has proven that Multicard has convincing know-how to position our technology profitably in major projects on the market."

About Multicard AG
Multicard is a leading general contractor for consultancy services and the development of innovative solutions in the employee, customer and credit card solutions field. Multicard's full service encompasses not only the actual card production, but also data management, electronic and visual customisation of letter text, the (just-in-time processing) smart card and individual postal delivery. Customers receive their desired package from the Multicard Lettershop after the automatic allocation of cover letter and card. As part of the after-sales service, the Multicard card management system simplifies the company's procedures for the smart card and ensures that the processes run without disruption to the media safety and data flow

About LEGIC® Identsystems Ltd
LEGIC Identsystems Ltd, with headquarters in Switzerland, is the world leader in the design and manufacture of 13.56 MHz contactless smart card technology. The LEGIC product portfolio includes highly integrated LEGIC RF Standard, ISO 15693 and ISO 14443 compliant read/write chip sets, security modules and transponder chips. LEGIC Identsystems currently works with over 200 external co-operation partners world-wide who offer compatible LEGIC all-in-one-card applications including access control, e-payment, parking, e-ticketing and other multiapplications. More than 2 million readers and over 100 million credentials are successfully integrated in more than 60,000 work and leisure places worldwide.

DCS Europe ID to change name to Multicard

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

St. Gallen - Villingen-Schwenningen - DCS Europe ID Solutions GmbH announced today its plan to adopt fully the name Multicard and to change its legal name to Multicard GmbH. The Company officially launched its new identity at a reception for employees and customers from Germany and Switzerland.

Jürgen Müller, General Manager of Multicard GmbH in Germany commented: "We are very happy about the positive feedback from customers, partners and suppliers. Our decision to adopt the Multicard name will enable us and our new mother company in Switzerland to increase the market awareness of our activity across our various market segments from the consumer card market to our corporate and National ID customers." Müller further added: "With our strong international business track record in many world markets and with the tremendous reputation Multicard established in Switzerland we believe the Multicard name represents our future best and I am really pleased and proud that our employees and customers agree and support our approach."

Marco Avanzini, General Manager of Multicard AG in Switzerland commented on the launch of the new identity for Switzerland and Germany: "I am very happy with the coming together of the expanded Multicard under a new identity, and I am particularly pleased that the former DCS team took the lead in the process. Werner Vogt, member of the board of directors of Multicard, added: "Many combinations of business often promise too much and we are all working diligently to make the new Multicard a better company and broader based company for our customers and employees."

Multicard AG focuses on the printing, programming and issuance of identification cards with strong focus on the consumer sector. In addition it offers multifunctional smart card solutions for secure identification programs and will act as ID systems architect and offer management and engineering services.
Multicard in Switzerland and Germany are expected to join the Bluehill ID Group following approval of the shareholders of Bluehill ID in July 2008.

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ.F/BUQ.DE; www.bluehill-id.com) Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies in the security, national identification, tracking and other growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with strong organic growth from portfolio companies.

Contact

Multicard AG
Marco Avanzini
Tel.: +41 44 87 79 001
eMail: m.avanzini@multicard.com
Internet: www.multicard.com

DCS Europe ID Solutions GmbH
Jürgen Müller
Tel.: +49 77 20 99 69 75
eMail: jmueller@digitalcardsystems.com
Internet: www.dcs-europe.net

Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
eMail: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Multicard AG announces acquisition of DCS Europe ID Solutions GmbH

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

DCS Europe offers multifunctional smartcard solutions for secure identification programs but the company also acts as ID systems architect and offers management and engineering services.

Marco Avanzini, the Managing Director of Multicard noted "we are excited to have Jürgen Müller, Markus Albrecht and their Team join Multicard. Their unique understanding of real life applications in the national ID and the commercial markets add to our traditional strength in the consumer market."

Werner Vogt, chairman of Multicard added "in my many years in this industry I am most impressed with the deep understanding along the whole value chain of core system design as well as card programming and issuance skills of the DCS Team."

From the DCS Europe side, Jürgen Müller, Managing Director, said "Multicard is the perfect partner for us, they give us technical depth, back-up and more flexibility for our customers, and we are particularly pleased that through the Multicard acquisition we will soon also become a part of the Bluehill ID Group."

On May 13, Frankfurt Stock Exchange traded Bluehill ID AG had announced that it had reached agreement to acquire Multicard. The closing of this transaction was deferred now to allow for the completion of the DCS Europe acquisition and Multicard AG and Bluehill ID now expect the transaction to close within the next 60 days.

Multicard AG is an identification technology company focusing on the printing, programming and issuance of identification cards across multiple segments but with strong focus on the consumer sector. Founded in 1986 by its chairman Werner Vogt, Multicard has grown to be a highly respected leader in the ID card issuance and fulfilment market.

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ.F/BUQ.DE; www.bluehill-id.com) Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies in the security, national identification, tracking and other growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with strong organic growth from portfolio companies.

Contact

Multicard AG
Marco Avanzini
Tel.: +41 44 87 79 001
eMail: m.avanzini@multicard.com
Internet: www.multicard.com

DCS Europe ID Solutions GmbH
Jürgen Müller
Tel.: +49 77 20 99 69 75
eMail: jmueller@digitalcardsystems.com
Internet: www.dcs-europe.net
Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com

Bluehill ID AG to acquire Multicard AG

Mon, 12 May 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Bluehill ID AG (Symbol BUQ / www.bluehill-id.com) announced today that it entered into agreement to acquire 100% of Swiss based Multicard AG (www.multicard.com)

Multicard AG is headquartered in Wallisellen near Zurich and is a well established identification technology company focusing on the printing, programming and issuance of identification cards across multiple segments but with strong focus on the consumer sector. Founded in 1986 by its chairman Werner Vogt, Multicard has grown to be a highly respected leader in the ID card issuance & fulfilment market.

CEO Marco Avanzini said "we are really happy that we will be part of the Bluehill ID Group soon, we know the Bluehill team very well and we believe that being part of this organization will position us for continued growth"

Ayman S. Ashour, CEO of Bluehill ID, commented "Multicard has an excellent track record of growth and profitability and will be a very important part of our platform. We are expecting to complete the acquisition in the coming few weeks and I am really pleased to welcome Multicard to the Bluehill ID family"

About Bluehill ID AG
Bluehill ID AG is an international company with headquarters in Switzerland and listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ISIN CH0031958629; Symbol BUQ.F/BUQ.DE; www.bluehill-id.com) Bluehill ID is dedicated to the responsible use and development of RFID and other automatic identification technologies in the security, national identification, tracking and other growing applications. The business model of the company is based on combining disciplined acquisitive growth with strong organic growth from portfolio companies.

Contact
Fabien B Nestmann
Tel: +41 44 78 38 043
Email: fbn@bluehill-id.com