ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EMS Technologies, Inc. has announced that it is initiating share repurchases under its previously announced authorization to purchase shares costing up to an aggregate of $20 million, principally in transactions involving substantial blocks. Of this authorization, approximately $10 million has previously been expended. Specific repurchase decisions will be based on market prices and conditions at the time, and on continuing evaluation of alternative needs and opportunities for cash usage.
John B. Mowell, Chairman of the Board, stated, "In view of the sharp decline in the trading price of our shares following our November 5 announcement of lowered earnings expectations for the balance of this year, our Board believes purchases would benefit the remaining shareholders by reducing the number of outstanding shares at prices well below the Company's book value.
"We believe our business and its long-term position is at least as sound and valuable as it was earlier in the year, when market trading of our shares was at a much higher price. Since the beginning of the year, we have not achieved the earnings levels we had expected, but we have nonetheless operated profitably and generated cash in a very difficult economic environment. More important, we have significantly expanded our positions in key growth markets for mobile connectivity, we have introduced numerous promising new products, and we have streamlined our business operations in ways that we believe are appropriate for the current environment while preparing the Company to take advantage of improved economic conditions in future periods. In short, as a Board, while we regret that a number of our shareholders are reducing their holdings of our shares, we feel we would be remiss not to use a portion of our strong balance sheet to take advantage of current trading activity for the benefit of our remaining shareholders."
About EMS Technologies, Inc.
EMS Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ELMG - News) is a leading provider of wireless connectivity solutions over satellite and terrestrial networks. EMS keeps people and systems connected, wherever they are — on land, at sea, in the air or in space. Serving the aeronautical, asset tracking, defense, and mobile computing industries, EMS products and services enable universal mobility, visibility and intelligence. EMS has three operating segments:
Visit www.ems-t.com for more information.
EMS Technologies, Inc.
Gary B. Shell, 770-729-6512
Chief Financial Officer
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