Plantronics Press Room » US/Corporate

Plantronics Announces Second Quarter 2012 Financial Results

inolan — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:00:08 +0000

Office and Contact Center Revenue Increase Driven by Strong Growth in Unified Communications; Company Achieves Record Operating Income; EPS Exceeds Guidance

SANTA CRUZ, CA - November 1, 2011 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced second quarter of fiscal year 2012 net revenues of $176.9 million compared with net revenues of $158.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2011. Net revenues were within our guidance range of $172 million to $177 million provided on August 1, 2011. Plantronics’ GAAP diluted earnings per share was $0.60 in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 compared with $0.52 in the same quarter of the prior year, exceeding our guidance range of $0.51 to $0.56 as a result of higher gross margins and lower average shares outstanding during the quarter. Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $0.67, up 16% compared with $0.58 in the same quarter of the prior year, also exceeding our previously provided guidance range of $0.58 to $0.63. The difference between GAAP and non-GAAP diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 includes stock-based compensation charges and purchase accounting amortization, both net of the associated tax impact.

“The continued adoption and deployment of Unified Communications (”UC”) by enterprise customers in all major geographies contributed to an increase in Office and Contact Center (”OCC”) revenues, higher gross margin and record operating income,” stated Ken Kannappan, President & CEO. ”Product revenues related to UC deployments grew by approximately 70% compared with the prior year quarter.”

The trend of UC adoption and growth in emerging markets contributed to a 16% increase in net revenues from OCC products in the second quarter of fiscal 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. OCC net revenues were $136.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2012 compared with $118.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2011. Revenues of UC products were $22.4 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 compared with $13.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2011.

Mobile net revenues were $28.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012, an increase of 3% from $27.6 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2011 as a result of growth in international revenues due to a more competitive product portfolio and market share gains, offset partially by a decline in the U.S. as a result of some market share loss and overall weakness in the product category.

GAAP operating income in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $36.9 million, resulting in an operating margin of 20.9% as compared to $34.0 million and an operating margin of 21.5% in the same period in the prior year. Operating income exceeded our previously provided guidance of $32 million to $35 million. Non-GAAP operating income in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $41.5 million, resulting in a non-GAAP operating margin of 23.5%, exceeding previously provided guidance of $37 million to $40 million.

“We finished the quarter with $349 million in cash, cash equivalents and short & long term investments after spending nearly $90 million on repurchases of our common stock, inclusive of $50 million paid under a new accelerated share repurchase program announced in August. We generated approximately $37 million in cash flows from operations in the second quarter of fiscal year 2012 and continue to have a strong financial position,” stated Barbara Scherer, SVP Finance and Administration & CFO.

Repurchase Activity

Plantronics’ diluted shares outstanding in the second quarter of fiscal 2012 declined sequentially by approximately 2.3 million shares from 48.1 million to 45.7 million as a result of its repurchase programs. As of today, there are approximately 1.5 million shares remaining to be repurchased under the Company’s authorized share repurchase programs, and the Company expects to complete the repurchase of these shares by the end of its current fiscal year.

Business Outlook

The following statements are based on our current expectations and many of these statements are forward-looking. Actual results are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and may differ materially from our expectations.

The December quarter has historically been a stronger quarter than the September quarter and the current bookings trend supports our belief that revenues will be in the ranges below. Plantronics’ business is inherently difficult to forecast, particularly with continuing uncertainty in global economic conditions, and there can be no assurance that the incoming orders it expects to receive over the balance of the current quarter will materialize.

Subject to the foregoing, we are currently expecting the following range of financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2012:

Net revenues of $175 million to $185 million;
GAAP operating income of $31 million to $37 million;
Non-GAAP operating income of $36 million to $41 million;
Assuming approximately 43.7 million diluted average weighted shares outstanding:
- GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.53 to $0.63;
- Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.60 to $0.70; and
- Diluted earnings per share cost of stock-based compensation to be approximately $0.07.

Plantronics does not intend to update these targets during the quarter or to report on its progress toward these targets. Plantronics will not comment on these targets to analysts or investors except by its press release announcing its third quarter fiscal year 2012 results or by other public disclosure. Any other statements speculating on the progress of the third quarter fiscal year 2012 will not be based on internal information and should be assessed accordingly by investors.

Dividend Announcement

Plantronics also announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share. The dividend will be payable on December 9, 2011 to stockholders of record at the close of business on November 18, 2011.

Conference Call Scheduled to Discuss Financial Results

Plantronics has scheduled a conference call to discuss second quarter fiscal year 2012 results. The conference call will take place today, November 1, 2011 at 2:00 PM (Pacific Time). All interested investors and potential investors in Plantronics stock are invited to participate. To listen to the call, please dial in five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and refer to the “Plantronics Conference Call.” Participants from North America should call (888) 301-8736 and other participants should call (706) 634-7260.

A replay of the call with the conference ID #92477516 will be available for 72 hours at (800) 642-1687 for callers from North America and at (706) 645-9291 for all other callers. The conference call will also be simultaneously webcast at www.plantronics.com under Investor Relations, and the webcast of the conference call will remain available on the Plantronics website for 30 days.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information

Plantronics has excluded non-cash expenses and charges including stock-based compensation expenses related to stock options, restricted stock and employee stock purchases and purchase accounting amortization from non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP operating margin, non-GAAP operating income, the non-GAAP effective tax rate, non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP earnings per diluted share. Plantronics excludes these expenses from its non-GAAP measures primarily because Plantronics management does not believe they are part of Plantronics’ target operating model. Plantronics believes that the use of non-GAAP financial measures provides meaningful supplemental information regarding its performance and liquidity, and helps investors compare actual results to its long-term target operating model goals. Plantronics believes that both management and investors benefit from referring to these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing its performance and when planning, forecasting and analyzing future periods, however non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, gross margin, operating margin, operating income, the effective tax rate, net income or earnings per share prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to (i) our outlook for the UC market; (ii) our estimates of GAAP and non-GAAP financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2012, including net revenues, operating income and diluted earnings per share; (iii) our estimated diluted earnings per share cost of stock-based compensation for the third quarter of fiscal 2012; (iv) our estimate of the diluted weighted average shares outstanding in the third quarter of fiscal 2012; (v) our expectation to complete the repurchase of approximately 1.5 million shares by the end of our current fiscal year; and, (vi) trends and our predictions regarding ordering patterns for the third quarter of fiscal 2012, as well as other matters discussed in this press release that are not purely historical data. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such statements. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated are:

economic conditions in both the domestic and international markets;
our ability to realize our UC plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC adoption could be adversely affected by the following factors: (i) as UC becomes more widely adopted, the risk that competitors will offer solutions that will effectively commoditize our headsets which, in turn, will reduce the sales prices for our headsets; (ii) UC solutions may not be adopted with the breadth and speed in the marketplace that we currently anticipate; (iii) the development of UC solutions is technically complex and this may delay or obstruct our ability to introduce solutions to the market on a timely basis and that are cost effective, feature rich, stable and attractive to our customers; (iv) as UC becomes more widely adopted we anticipate that competition for market share will increase, and some competitors may have superior technical and economic resources; and, (v) our plans are dependent upon adoption of our UC solution by major platform providers such as Microsoft Corporation, Cisco Systems, Inc., Avaya, Inc., Alcatel-Lucent, and IBM, and we have a limited ability to influence such providers with respect to the functionality of their platforms, their rate of deployment, and their willingness to integrate their platforms with our solutions, and our support expenditures may substantially increase over time due to the complex nature of the platforms developed by the major UC providers as these platforms continue to evolve and become more commonly adopted; failure to match production to demand given long lead times and the difficulty of forecasting unit volumes and acquiring the component parts and materials to meet demand without having excess inventory or incurring cancellation charges;
volatility in prices from our suppliers, including our manufacturers located in China, have and could negatively affect our profitability and/or market share;
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;
the bankruptcy or financial weakness of distributors or key customers, or the bankruptcy of or reduction in capacity of our key suppliers; and,
additional risk factors including: interruption in the supply of sole-sourced critical components, continuity of component supply at costs consistent with our plans, the inherent risks of our substantial foreign operations, and problems which might affect our manufacturing facilities in Mexico.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to Plantronics’ Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 31, 2011, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.

Financial Summaries

The following related charts are provided:

Summary Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Unaudited GAAP to Non-GAAP Consolidated Statements of Operations Reconciliations for the Three and Six Months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010
Summary Unaudited Statements of Operations and Related Data on a Non-GAAP Basis

View All

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a global leader in audio communications for businesses and consumers. We have pioneered new trends in audio technology for 50 years, creating innovative products that allow people to simply communicate. From Unified Communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, we deliver uncompromising quality, an ideal experience, and extraordinary service. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100, as well as 911 dispatch, air traffic control and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Plantronics, the logo design, Simply Smarter Communications and Clarity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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Plantronics Announces $50 Million Accelerated Share Repurchase and Completion of Earlier $100 Million Program

nportugal — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:49:18 +0000

Santa Cruz, CA–August 19, 2011

- Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it entered into an Accelerated Share Repurchase agreement (”ASR agreement”) with Goldman, Sachs & Co. (”Goldman”) to repurchase an aggregate of $50 million of Plantronics’ common stock under an accelerated share repurchase program (”ASR program”).

“In connection with the 7 million share repurchase authorization announced on May 3, 2011, we continue to pursue an accelerated pace of repurchases by entering into a follow-on ASR agreement upon completion of our prior ASR program announced in May 2011,” said Ken Kannappan, President & CEO.

Plantronics is scheduled to pay $50 million to Goldman on August 24, 2011 and will receive delivery of shares by Goldman pursuant to the ASR agreement. A majority of the shares are scheduled to be delivered by Goldman by August 24, 2011. The remaining shares to be repurchased will be based generally on the daily volume-weighted average price of Plantronics’ common stock during the term of the ASR agreement, and under certain circumstances Goldman will not deliver additional shares and Plantronics will be required to make an additional payment or deliver shares to Goldman.

The prior $100 million ASR program announced on May 9, 2011was completed on August 9, 2011. On August 12, 2011, Plantronics received an additional 648,505 shares for a total of 2,831,519 shares received.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements that the Company will repurchase $50 million of Plantronics’ common stock under an accelerated share repurchase program; that the Company will pay Goldman $50 million by August 24, 2011; that the Company will receive shares from Goldman pursuant to the ASR agreement; that the majority of shares to be repurchased will be delivered by Goldman by August 24, 2011 or that the remaining shares to be repurchased will be based generally on the daily volume-weighted average price of Plantronics’ common stock during the term of the ASR agreement. There are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any such statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: the ASR agreement is subject to terms and conditions that include adjustments upon the occurrence of certain events and certain circumstances under which the ASR Agreement may be terminated. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 31, 2011, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.

About Plantronics

Plantronics and the logo design are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license.All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Plantronics Announces First Quarter 2012 Financial Results

inolan — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:00:24 +0000

Continued Strong Growth in Unified Communications Revenues; Office and Contact Center Grows 11% Compared with Strong Prior Year Results

SANTA CRUZ, CA - August 1, 2011 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced first quarter fiscal year 2012 net revenues of $175.6 million compared with net revenues of $170.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011 and above the guidance range of $168 million - $173 million provided on May 3, 2011. Plantronics’ GAAP diluted earnings per share was $0.56 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 compared with $0.52 in the same quarter of the prior year and guidance of $0.46 to $0.50. Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share for the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $0.62, up 7% compared with $0.58 in the same quarter of the prior year and higher than previously provided guidance of $0.52 to $0.56. The difference between GAAP and non-GAAP diluted earnings per share for the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 includes stock-based compensation charges and purchase accounting amortization, both net of the associated tax impact.

“We started fiscal 2012 with strong year over year growth in our Office and Contact Center (‘OCC’) business in all geographies, in part driven by Unified Communications (‘UC’),” stated Ken Kannappan, President & CEO. ”Product revenues related to UC deployments grew by 91% compared with the prior year quarter and we remain very optimistic about the UC market and continue to invest accordingly.”

“We finished the quarter with $386.3 million in cash, cash equivalents and short & long term investments after spending $110 million on repurchases of our common stock, inclusive of $100 million paid under the accelerated share repurchase program we announced in May. We generated approximately $19 million in cash flow from operations in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 and continue to have a very strong financial position,” stated Barbara Scherer, SVP Finance and Administration & CFO.

Improved economic conditions and the market trend toward UC products drove an 11% increase in net revenues of OCC products in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 compared to the same period in the prior year. OCC net revenues were $131 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2012 compared with $117.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011. Revenues of UC products were $18.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 compared with $9.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011.

Mobile net revenues were $32.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012, a decrease of 17% from $38.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2011 as a result of some market share loss in the U.S. and overall weakness in the product category offset in part by international revenue growth.

GAAP operating income in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $35.0 million resulting in an operating margin of 20.0%. This compares to GAAP operating income of $35.9 million and an operating margin of 21.0% in the prior year quarter. Non-GAAP operating income in the first quarter of fiscal year 2012 was $39.4 million which resulted in a non-GAAP operating margin of 22.4% compared to previously provided guidance of non-GAAP operating income of $34 million to $37 million.

On May 9, 2011, Plantronics announced that it entered into two separate accelerated share repurchase agreements with Goldman, Sachs & Co. (”Goldman”) to repurchase an aggregate of $100 million of Plantronics’ common stock under an accelerated share repurchase program (”ASR”), as part of a 7 million share repurchase authorization announced on May 3, 2011. During the current quarter, Plantronics received approximately 2.1 million shares from Goldman and may receive additional shares or may be required to make an additional payment or deliver shares to Goldman at the completion of the program, which we expect to be in January 2012, but may be sooner. Plantronics’ diluted shares outstanding declined by 1.4 million shares sequentially, primarily as a result of the ASR, and actual diluted shares outstanding were 48.1 million compared with guidance of approximately 49 million. The guidance estimate for the first quarter of fiscal 2012 did not include the benefit of shares received under the ASR.

Business Outlook

The September quarter tends to be characterized by a slowdown in incoming purchase orders during July which intensifies in August, but historically, the level of incoming orders picks up strongly at the beginning of September. This pattern tends to be particularly true in our higher margin OCC business. This historical September quarter trend is included in our model for forecasting the second quarter net revenues.

Plantronics’ business is inherently difficult to forecast, particularly with continuing uncertainty in global economic conditions, and there can be no assurance that the incoming orders it expects to receive over the balance of the current quarter will materialize.

Subject to the foregoing, we are currently expecting the following range of financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2012:

Net revenues of $172 million - $177 million;
GAAP operating income of $32 million to $35 million;
Non-GAAP operating income of $37 million to $40 million;
Assuming approximately 47.4 million diluted average weighted shares outstanding:
- GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.51 to $0.56;
- Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.58 - $0.63; and
- Diluted earnings per share cost of stock-based compensation to be approximately $0.07.

Plantronics does not intend to update these targets during the quarter or to report on its progress toward these targets. Plantronics will not comment on these targets to analysts or investors except by its press release announcing its second quarter fiscal year 2012 results or by other public disclosure. Any other statements speculating on the progress of the second quarter fiscal year 2012 will not be based on internal information and should be assessed accordingly by investors.

Dividend Announcement

Plantronics also announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share. The dividend will be payable on September 9, 2011 to stockholders of record at the close of business on August 19, 2011.

Conference Call Scheduled to Discuss Financial Results

Plantronics has scheduled a conference call to discuss first quarter fiscal year 2012 results. The conference call will take place today, August 1, 2011 at 2:00 PM (PDT). All interested investors and potential investors in Plantronics stock are invited to participate. To listen to the call, please dial in five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and refer to the “Plantronics Conference Call.” Participants from North America should call (888) 301-8736 and other participants should call (706) 634-7260.

A replay of the call with the conference ID #76926828 will be available for 72 hours at (800) 642-1687 for callers from North America and at (706) 645-9291 for all other callers. The conference call will also be simultaneously webcast at www.plantronics.com under Investor Relations, and the webcast of the conference call will remain available on the Plantronics website for 30 days.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information

Plantronics has excluded non-recurring transactions and non-cash expenses and charges including stock-based compensation expenses related to stock options, restricted stock and employee stock purchases and purchase accounting amortization from non-GAAP net income, non-GAAP earnings per diluted share, non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP gross profit, non-GAAP operating margin and the non-GAAP effective tax rate. Plantronics excludes these expenses from its non-GAAP measures primarily because Plantronics does not believe they are reflective of ongoing operating results and are not considered by management as part of Plantronics’ target operating model. Plantronics believes that the use of non-GAAP financial measures provides meaningful supplemental information regarding its performance and liquidity, and helps investors compare actual results to its long-term target operating model goals. Plantronics believes that both management and investors benefit from referring to these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing its performance and when planning, forecasting and analyzing future periods, but non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, operating income, net income or earnings per share prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to (i) our outlook for the UC market (ii) our estimates of GAAP and non-GAAP financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2012, including net revenues, operating income and diluted earnings per share; (iii) our estimated diluted earnings per share cost of stock-based compensation for the second quarter of fiscal 2012; (iv) our estimate of the diluted weighted average shares outstanding in the second quarter of fiscal 2012, (v) trends and our predictions regarding ordering patterns for the second quarter of fiscal 2012, as well as other matters discussed in this press release that are not purely historical data. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

economic conditions in both the domestic and international markets;
our ability to realize our UC plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC adoption could be adversely affected by the following factors: (i) as UC becomes more widely adopted, the risk that competitors will offer solutions that will effectively commoditize our headsets which, in turn, will reduce the sales prices for our headsets; (ii) UC solutions may not be adopted with the breadth and speed in the marketplace that we currently anticipate; (iii) the development of UC solutions is technically complex and this may delay or obstruct our ability to introduce solutions to the market on a timely basis and that are cost effective, feature rich, stable and attractive to our customers; (iv) as UC becomes more widely adopted we anticipate that competition for market share will increase, and some competitors may have superior technical and economic resources; (v) our plans are dependent upon adoption of our UC solution by major platform providers such as Microsoft Corporation, Cisco Systems, Inc., Avaya, Inc., Alcatel-Lucent, and IBM, and we have a limited ability to influence such providers with respect to the functionality of their platforms, their rate of deployment, and their willingness to integrate their platforms with our solutions, and our support expenditures may substantially increase over time due to the complex nature of the platforms developed by the major UC providers as these platforms continue to evolve and become more commonly adopted; and (vi) the results and timing of our accelerated share repurchase program;
failure to match production to demand given long lead times and the difficulty of forecasting unit volumes and acquiring the component parts and materials to meet demand without having excess inventory or incurring cancellation charges;
volatility in prices from our suppliers, including our manufacturers located in China, have and could negatively affect our profitability and/or market share;
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;
the bankruptcy or financial weakness of distributors or key customers, or the bankruptcy of or reduction in capacity of our key suppliers; and,
additional risk factors including: interruption in the supply of sole-sourced critical components, continuity of component supply at costs consistent with our plans, the inherent risks of our substantial foreign operations, and problems which might affect our manufacturing facilities in Mexico.

Financial Summaries

The following related charts are provided:

Summary Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Unaudited GAAP to Non-GAAP Consolidated Statements of Operations Reconciliations for the Three Months ended June 30, 2011 and June 30, 2010
Summary Unaudited Statements of Operations and Related Data on a Non-GAAP Basis

View all

About Plantronics

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Plantronics Celebrates National SolarDay

lmoore — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:00:16 +0000

June 18 is National SolarDay for 2011

SANTA CRUZ, CA, June 17, 2011 - Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its headquartered office has the largest solar and sun tube installation in the Santa Cruz County, to date. This new solar installment will save approximately 575,000 kilowatt hours of energy on an annual basis. To celebrate National SolarDay and the achievement of this major energy milestone, the company invites guests and media to tour the eco-friendly facility in the coming weeks and ask questions about Plantronics energy-saving initiatives.

The Plantronics Santa Cruz facility has more than 500 employees and continues to invest in environmental friendly initiatives such as installing over 340 solar tubes throughout the office cubicles to collect and redirect sun light and provide more natural light in the office, therefore reducing the power consumption throughout the building. This solar system was fully implemented in late May and is expected to offset upwards of 80 percent of its utility bill.

“On the heels of our 50^th company anniversary, we are thrilled to celebrate National SolarDay this year and share the details of our solar system initiative,” said Dolores Nelson, Director of Facilities for Plantronics. “With the backing of U.S. Congresswoman Doris Matsuai and California Senator Dianne Feinstein, SolarDay 2011 is a day meant to educate the public on the benefits of solar energy and cost savings. Plantronics is taking the necessary steps to become a more sustainable company for its employees and the citizens of Santa Cruz County and we thank those who have been supportive of our actions and future plans.”

In the Santa Cruz and Mexico facilities, Plantronics has implemented the following programs and results:

Santa Cruz - Solar System, Recycling and Water Usage:

The new solar system size is 608,090 W (i.e. 608 kW), resulting in a new combined system of 870,590 W (i.e. 871 kW)
The recycling program has reduced truck pickups from seven times per month down to just 1.5 times per month. The company recycles all cardboard, small batteries, fluorescent tubes and e-waste.
The company installed WeatherTRAK controls (smart irrigation based on local satellite data) for watering its landscape, including drought-tolerant plants, saving approximately 250,000 gallons of water per year. Additionally, the company saves about 300,000 gallons of water per year with the use of waterless urinals. In total, a savings of 550,000 gallons of water is saved on an annual basis.

Mexico - Recycling:

The Mexico facility recycles on average more than 2.5 million pounds of material (cardboard, plastics, cables and components) annually.
In total, between the Santa Cruz and Mexico facilities, the company has recycled more than three million pounds of material, annually.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a registered trademark of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license

# # #

Plantronics Contact:
Leslie Moore
leslie.moore@plantronics.com
831-458-7624

Plantronics To Hold Analyst Day on May 18, 2011

tcarbone — Mon, 16 May 2011 15:23:51 +0000

Santa Cruz, CA - May 16, 2011 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it will hold an Analyst Day on Wednesday, May 18, 2011, in New York at the New York Stock Exchange.

The event will begin at 10:00 A.M. ET and include presentations by members of senior management followed by a question and answer session that will conclude by 2:30 PM ET. A portion of the event will be live webcast and will be accessible on the home page of the Investor Relations section of Plantronics’ website at www.plantronics.com. The live webcast will include synchronized presentation slides. Following the event, the webcast will be archived for thirty days, with the presentations accessible for viewing and downloading.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a global leader in audio communications for businesses and consumers. We have pioneered new trends in audio technology for 50 years, creating innovative products that allow people to simply communicate. From Unified Communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, we deliver uncompromising quality, an ideal experience, and extraordinary service. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100, as well as 911 dispatch, air traffic control and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Plantronics, the logo design, and Clarity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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INVESTOR CONTACT:
Greg Klaben
Vice President of Investor Relations
(831) 458-7533

MEDIA CONTACT:
Russell Castronovo
Director of Global Communications
(831) 458-7598

Plantronics Celebrates Earth Day As Largest Solar Panel Installation in Santa Cruz County Nears Completion

tcarbone — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:59:39 +0000

Solar Installation to Provide 80% of Plantronics’ Energy Use

Santa Cruz, CA, April 22, 2011 - Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its solar panel installation is nearing completion and it is bringing in local vendors to raise environmental awareness among employees. These activities are part of Plantronics’ Earth Day celebration and will help the company and its associates reduce impact on the environment.

Pat Wadors, Senior Vice President, Human Resources at Plantronics said, “Plantronics is proud of its efforts at increasing environmental awareness and energy savings. The response from our employees to these efforts has been extremely positive.”

Solar Installation

This spring, Plantronics’ solar panel installation will be completed and it will be the largest solar installation in Santa Cruz County. Upwards of 80% of the company’s corporate site utility bill is expected to be offset by solar power. The existing solar system size consists of 262,550W, while the new combined system, installed by Sandbar Solar & Electric, will total over 870,000W - the largest of its kind in the county. In addition to the solar panels being installed at the corporate location, Plantronics has also incorporated sun tubes throughout their offices, installed by NuLight Solutions, which will collect and redirect sunlight to provide more natural light within the offices.

In recognition of Earth Day, Plantronics is hosting an Earth Day Fair for employees to utilize earth-friendly solutions. Services such as water saving tips, gardening and compost demonstrations, local adopt-a-beach information and organic produce will be available. The fair is supported by the company and produced entirely by internal employee volunteers.

The café at the corporate headquarters in Santa Cruz serves certified organic produce and follows the guidelines of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program and supports true family farms where the owners live on, or nearby, the land. By the end of 2012, 25% of all agribusiness products utilized by the café will be supplied by local farmers.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

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Plantronics Contact:
Leslie Moore
leslie.moore@plantronics.com
831-458-7624

Plantronics Announces One Million Share Repurchase Program

tcarbone — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:00:07 +0000

Santa Cruz, CA - March 2, 2011 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a new 1,000,000 share repurchase program to follow the program announced in August 2010. Under the repurchase program, Plantronics will, from time to time, purchase shares of its common stock, depending upon market conditions, in open market or privately negotiated transactions.

“We have a consistent record of share repurchases, with this being our 24th repurchase program since fiscal 1997. We believe that our cash on hand and future cash flows provide sufficient liquidity to support an additional 1,000,000 share repurchase program,” stated Barbara Scherer, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Plantronics. “We purchase shares when we believe it will be strongly accretive to earnings per share to do so in comparison to alternative investment choices. Our Board of Directors believes that Plantronics’ stock presents an attractive investment for the Company and its stockholders,” she continued.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements that the Company will generate future cash flow, repurchase of Company stock constitutes an opportunity to increase shareholder value, cash on hand and future cash flows should provide sufficient liquidity to support another share repurchase program, and the repurchase of our stock represents an attractive investment. There are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any such statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: (1) failure to achieve the anticipated levels of cash generation due to lower sales, increased costs, higher inventories, slow collection of accounts receivable or other factors; (2) increases in the yield which could be obtained from alternative investment of the funds used to repurchase stock; and (3) an increased need for cash reserves beyond the levels presently anticipated, as well as other matters discussed in this press release that are not purely historical data. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed June 1, 2010, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a global leader in audio communications for businesses and consumers. We have pioneered new trends in audio technology for 50 years, creating innovative products that allow people to simply communicate. From Unified Communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, we deliver uncompromising quality, an ideal experience, and extraordinary service. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100, as well as 911 dispatch, air traffic control and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

INVESTOR CONTACT:
Greg Klaben
Vice President of Investor Relations
(831) 458-7533

MEDIA CONTACT:
Russell Castronovo
Director of Global Communications
(831) 458-7598

Plantronics Honored with Six CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards

lmoore — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 22:00:28 +0000

Industry Accolades Continue for Plantronics’ Mobile and Gaming Personal Audio Communications Solutions

SANTA CRUZ, CA - November 9, 2010 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that six of its latest products have been named CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards winners in three categories. The award recipients include the new Plantronics Savor^TM M1100 Bluetooth® headset for mobile phones and the Plantronics Savi® 430, the first portable PC-based wireless headset system that incorporates DECT^TM technology for brilliant audio quality with Skype® and other services.

“Plantronics prides itself in developing products that exceed consumers’ expectations by combining great audio, and innovative features with exceptional usability and style,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “These awards reflect our deep understanding of customer needs and our unrelenting commitment to inventing new products and services that enable clear and quality communications.”

The following Plantronics products received CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards:

Plantronics BackBeat® 903+ (Headphones Category)

The Plantronics BackBeat 903+, an update to the popular BackBeat 903, is a stereo Bluetooth headset designed for users with active lifestyles. It provides rich wireless stereo music and the ability to answer/end a call with a single touch of a button. The BackBeat 903+ headset features ruggedized, sweat resistant-materials and a flexible design with three levels of earpiece adjustment for a secure and comfortable fit during long workouts.

Plantronics BackBeat 116 and 216 Stereo Headphones with Mic (Headphones Category)

The Plantronics BackBeat 216 is a certified headphone for iPod, iPhone and iPad. It enables users to get the most from their compatible devices by offering bold, rich audio for music, calls and multimedia applications. The BackBeat 116 features the popular earbud form factor with a simpler in-line controller and built-in mic. The standard 3.5mm stereo connector and interface makes it compatible not only with the iPhone, iPod and iPad, but also most Android based phones, BlackBerry® smartphones and other music phones. These corded stereo headphones provide plug-and-play simplicity and feature noise-isolating ear buds with neodymium micro-speakers that boost bass levels and deliver well-balanced high and mid ranges for an overall great audio experience.

Plantronics GameCom® 777 with Dolby® 7.1 Headphone Technology (Headphones Category)

The GameCom 777 Gaming Headset with virtual 7.1 surround sound enabled by Dolby Headphone and Dolby Pro Logic® IIx technologies combines immersive surround sound and Plantronics’ design excellence to deliver an unmatched sound and voice experience for PC gamers. This open-eared gaming headset with Dolby Headphone technology gives you an unparalleled audio advantage.

Plantronics Savi 430 (Personal Electronics Category)

The Plantronics Savi 430 is designed for professionals who travel frequently within a corporate campus. It is ideal for use with laptops or netbooks for voice, video and data communications. It features a lightweight, noise-canceling headset and DECT USB adapter to provide brilliant audio and up to 300 feet of range.

Plantronics Savor^TM M1100 (Wireless Handsets Accessories Category)

The Plantronics Savor features three microphones that work in harmony to ensure every word is heard clearly during conversations. Two of the three microphones precisely capture the user’s voice and simultaneously cancel background noise. The third microphone automatically activates when in extremely noisy situations, helping to overcome the most challenging environments while maximizing battery life.

To learn more about these winning products, please visit the Plantronics booth #31123 at CES 2011, January 6-9^th, 2011, or visit www.plantronics.com.

About the International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards

The Innovations Design and Engineering Awards program recognizes the most innovative consumer electronics (CE) products in the industry’s hottest product categories. Innovations has become a hallmark for the best designed products in consumer technology. The honorees are featured during the 2010 International CES in a special display.

Innovations honoree products are featured on www.CESweb.org/Innovations , where you can see a list of product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL. Honorees for the Innovations Design and Engineering Awards Showcase are selected by a preeminent panel of judges consisting of independent industry designers, engineers and journalists.

About Plantronics

Plantronics, BackBeat, GameCom, Savi, and Savor, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories. iPad is a trademark of Apple, Inc. iPhone and iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. BlackBerry is the property of Research In Motion Limited and is registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

# # #

Contact Information:

Leslie Moore
Plantronics, Inc.
leslie.moore@plantronics.com
831-426-5868

Plantronics Helps Maryland Drivers Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Talking and Driving

admin — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 12:00:13 +0000

New Voyager PRO+ and M100 Bluetooth Headsets and K100 In-Car Speakerphone Provide Compliance with the Law and Choice for Drivers

BALTIMORE, MD - September 28, 2010 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in personal audio communications for almost 50 years, encourages Maryland drivers to prepare for the hands-free driving law by educating themselves on the new headset and in-car speakerphone options available and following a set of simple safety tips. Effective Friday, October 1, Maryland will ban the use of handheld mobile electronic devices including phones while operating a motor vehicle unless a hands-free device is used.

Plantronics offers Maryland drivers a wide variety of products for hands-free driving, including the new Plantronics Voyager® PRO+ Bluetooth® headset, M100™ Bluetooth headset and K100™ in-car speakerphone.

The new law bans Maryland drivers from using handheld phones for anything other than emergency calls with violators receiving a $40 fine for a first offense and $100 fine for each subsequent offense. Hands-free devices, such as headsets and in-car speakerphones, minimize physical and visual distractions associated with talking on the phone and driving by enabling motorists to keep both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road.

“As more states enact hands-free legislation, Plantronics continues to develop a variety of hands-free products to fit a range of personal styles and budgets while still providing the first-rate audio quality consumers want,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Marketing at Plantronics. “Given that Maryland drivers have the second longest commute time in the country*, we think they’ll especially appreciate the award-winning performance, comfort and usability that our products deliver.”

Today’s busy commuters often make calls on the road using a mobile phone which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of a headset or in-car speakerphone, coupled with voice commands, drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking in the car while never having to look at their phones. Plantronics offers the following tips for staying safe on the road and complying with the hands-free law:

Try it out: Test your headset with your phone before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset’s controls and voice commands (if supported), and adjust the fit and volume. Make sure your headset and phone are connected and store your phone so it is out of your way but still accessible.
Get organized: Make sure frequently called numbers are programmed into your phone. Most phones have voice-dialing; be sure to use this feature so you can always keep both eyes on the road.
Set it up: Add headset preparation to your pre-driving checklist. Buckle your seatbelt, check your rearview mirror, and put on your headset and make sure it’s connected to your phone before you drive.
Focus on the road: Always remember that driving safely is your first priority. You should focus on the road and only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

Best-in-Class Bluetooth Solutions

The Plantronics Voyager PRO+ Bluetooth headset, a new version of the award-winning Voyager PRO, combines advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology to deliver rich, natural audio during conversations. Voyager PRO+ also features a new online voice service, Plantronics Vocalyst™, that helps drivers with convenient features and capabilities, including text-to-speech, reminders, audio streaming, and much more. Voyager PRO+ includes A2DP wireless streaming technology that enables drivers to stream GPS directions from a mobile phone.

The Plantronics K100 Bluetooth in-car speakerphone offers a robust combination of advanced audio technology, ease-of-use and enhanced features for convenient, hands-free conversations in the car. The slim K100 is designed to clip onto a car visor and allows users to broadcast calls through the built-in speaker or onboard stereo system. Dual microphones, noise reduction technology, voice alerts and large, easy-to-locate buttons all work to provide clear conversations and an easy calling experience. The Plantronics K100 delivers up to 17 hours of talk time and 15 days of standby time.

The Plantronics M100 Bluetooth Headset is an ultra-slim, lightweight headset that includes advanced technology to deliver clear and natural audio. One of the industry’s slimmest headsets — the device measures only 8mm thin — the M100 also delivers outstanding audio performance by incorporating dual microphones, wind-noise reduction and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology.

Pricing and Availability

The Plantronics Voyager PRO Bluetooth headset ($99.99 ESP), K100 in-car speakerphone ($79.99 ESP) and M100 Bluetooth headset ($79.99 ESP) are available today at www.plantronics.com and Best Buy stores in Maryland and surrounding areas. The Plantronics Voyager PRO+ with the Vocalyst service will be available online and in wireless carriers and retailers in October. To learn more about the headsets and see a complete listing of Plantronics’ hands-free products, please visit: www.plantronics.com.

Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone - handheld or hands-free - unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.

About Plantronics

*Census 2000, Maryland Department of Planning

Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, K100, M100 and Vocalyst are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Ingrid Van Den Hoogen Joins Plantronics as Chief Marketing Officer

admin — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:00:09 +0000

New Executive Team Member Brings Expertise in Global Brand and IT Marketing Leadership

SANTA CRUZ, CA – August 2, 2010 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Ingrid Van Den Hoogen has joined the company as chief marketing officer, responsible for leading Plantronics’ global brand, communication and marketing initiatives.

“Ingrid is an exceptional marketing professional with a successful track record of building compelling value propositions for new IT technology offerings,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO, Plantronics. “Her background is a great fit for Plantronics as we expand our presence in the unified communications market.”

“Plantronics is an exciting company with a dedication to product innovation and premier quality and customer service that both consumers and corporations trust,” said Van Den Hoogen. “I look forward to growing the company and the brand into the newly explosive unified communications market, and helping customers fully realize the benefits of what Plantronics can offer in this space with innovative, high quality solutions.”

Most recently, Ms. Van Den Hoogen was the senior vice president of corporate marketing at Sun Microsystems responsible for leading the global brand, advertising, communications, and marketing teams. With more than 20 years of marketing experience at Sun, Ms. Van Den Hoogen led branding for Sun and Java, drove eco-responsibility and open source marketing initiatives, and various product and strategic marketing roles throughout her tenure.

Prior to Sun, Ms. Van Den Hoogen held roles in software development at Megatek, United Technologies and GTE Government Systems.

She holds a BA in Math and Computer Science from San Jose State University.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth® headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Plantronics, the logo design, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.

# # #

Plantronics Announces First Quarter Fiscal 2011 Results

tcarbone — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:00:29 +0000

Revenue & Earnings Per Share Exceed Guidance

SANTA CRUZ, CA - July 26, 2010 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced first quarter fiscal 2011 net revenues of $170.7 million, a 21% increase compared with $141.2 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. Net revenues were above the guidance provided on May 4, 2010 of $160 - $165 million. Plantronics’ GAAP diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were $0.52 in the first quarter of fiscal 2011 compared with diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $0.27 in the same quarter of the prior year. Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share from continuing operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2011 were $0.58, an increase of 45% over the same quarter of the prior year. The difference between GAAP and non-GAAP earnings per share from continuing operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2011 includes stock-based compensation charges and purchase accounting amortization, both net of associated tax benefits.

“Revenues from Office & Contact Center (”OCC”) products grew in all geographies compared with the same period in the prior year. Contributions from Unified Communications (”UC”) product sales continue to grow and, at $9.8 million, we believe UC now represents over 10% of our office product net revenues,” stated Ken Kannappan, President & CEO.

“We generated approximately $32 million in cash flow from operations and maintained over $360 million in cash, cash equivalents, and short term investments while repurchasing approximately 1.5 million shares through our repurchase programs during the quarter,” stated Barbara Scherer, SVP Finance and Administration & CFO.

Improved economic conditions and the trend toward UC led to increases in net revenues in our OCC products. OCC net revenues were $117.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2011, an increase of 23% from $95.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2010.

GAAP operating income in the first quarter of fiscal 2011 was $35.9 million, resulting in an operating margin of 21.0%. This compares to GAAP operating income of $17.6 million and an operating margin of 12.4% in the prior year quarter. Non-GAAP operating income in the first quarter of fiscal 2011 was $40.0 million compared with previously provided guidance of $32.5 million to $35.5 million, resulting in an operating margin of 23.4%. This compares to Non-GAAP operating income of $25.2 million and an operating margin of 17.9% from continuing operations in the prior year quarter.

The Company completed the sale of Altec Lansing, its Audio Entertainment Group (”AEG”) segment, effective as of December 1, 2009. All results of operations related to AEG including the loss on the sale are classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Business Outlook

Plantronics has a “book and ship” business model whereby it ships most orders to customers within 48 hours of its receipt of those orders and, therefore, the level of backlog does not provide reliable visibility into potential future revenues. The September quarter tends to be characterized by a slowdown in incoming purchase orders during July which intensifies in August, but historically, the level of incoming orders pick up strongly at the beginning of September. This pattern tends to be particularly true in our higher margin OCC business. This pattern is repeating itself thus far in the quarter and was preceded by a slowdown in the second half of June. This historical September quarter trend is included in our model for forecasting the second quarter net revenues; however, if this trend does not reoccur in the current quarter, we are unlikely to achieve our forecasted net revenue levels.

The Company’s business is inherently difficult to forecast, particularly with continuing uncertainty in global economic conditions, and there can be no assurance that the incoming orders it expects to receive over the balance of the current quarter will materialize.

Subject to the foregoing, we are currently expecting the following range of financial results for continuing operations for the second quarter of fiscal 2011:

Net revenues of $158 million - $163 million;
Non-GAAP operating income of $32.5 million to $35.0 million;
Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.48 - $0.52;
Non-GAAP tax rate to be approximately 27%;
The EPS cost of stock-based compensation to be approximately $0.06; and
GAAP diluted earnings per share of $0.42 to $0.46.

Plantronics does not intend to update these targets during the quarter or to report on its progress toward these targets. Plantronics will not comment on these targets to analysts or investors except by its press release announcing its second quarter fiscal 2011 results or by other public disclosure. Any other statements speculating on the progress of the second quarter fiscal 2011 will not be based on internal Company information and should be assessed accordingly by investors.

Dividend Announcement

Plantronics also announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.05 per share. The dividend will be payable on September 10, 2010 to stockholders of record at the close of business on August 20, 2010.

Conference Call Scheduled to Discuss Actual Financial Results

Plantronics has scheduled a conference call to discuss first quarter fiscal 2011 results. The conference call will take place Monday, July 26, 2010 at 2:00 PM (PDT). All interested investors and potential investors in Plantronics stock are invited to participate. To listen to the call, please dial in five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and refer to the “Plantronics Conference Call.” Participants from North America should call (888) 301-8736 and other participants should call (706) 634-7260.

A replay of the call with the conference ID #78909591 will be available for 72 hours at (800) 642-1687 for callers from North America and at (706) 645-9291 for all other callers. The conference call will also be simultaneously web cast at www.plantronics.com under Investor Relations, and the web cast of the conference call will remain available at the Plantronics website for thirty days.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information

Plantronics excludes non-recurring transactions and non-cash expenses and charges such as restructuring and other related charges, the release of certain tax reserves, stock-based compensation expenses related to stock options, restricted stock and employee stock purchases, purchase accounting amortization and impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets from non-GAAP income from continuing operations, non-GAAP earnings per diluted share from continuing operations, non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP gross margin, non-GAAP operating margin and non-GAAP effective tax rate on continuing operations. Plantronics excludes these expenses from its non-GAAP measures primarily because Plantronics does not believe they are reflective of ongoing operating results and are not considered by management as part of Plantronics’ target operating model. Plantronics believes that the use of non-GAAP financial measures provides meaningful supplemental information regarding its performance and liquidity, and helps investors compare actual results to its long-term target operating model goals. Plantronics believes that both management and investors benefit from referring to these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing its performance and when planning, forecasting and analyzing future periods, but non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, income from operations, net income or earnings per share prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to (i) our estimates of GAAP and non-GAAP financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2011, including revenue, operating income and earnings per share; (ii) our estimated tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2011; (iii) our estimated stock-based compensation expense for the second quarter of fiscal 2011; (iv) trends and our predictions regarding ordering patterns for the second quarter of fiscal 2011, as well as other matters discussed in this press release that are not purely historical data. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

economic conditions in both the domestic and international markets;
our ability to realize our UC plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC adoption could be adversely affected by the following factors: (i) as UC becomes more widely adopted, the risk that competitors will offer solutions that will effectively commoditize our headsets which, in turn, will reduce the sales prices for our headsets; (ii) our plans are dependent upon adoption of our UC solution by major platform providers such as Microsoft, Avaya, IBM and Cisco, and we have a limited ability to influence such providers with respect to the functionality of their platforms, their rate of deployment, and their willingness to integrate their platforms with our solutions; (iii) the development of UC solutions is technically complex and this may delay or obstruct our ability to introduce solutions to the market on a timely basis and that are cost effective, feature rich, stable and attractive to our customers; (iv) as UC becomes more widely adopted we anticipate that competition for market share will increase, and some competitors may have superior technical and economic resources; (v) UC solutions may not be adopted with the breadth and speed in the marketplace that we currently anticipate, and (vi) our support expenditures may substantially increase over time due to the complex nature of the platforms developed by the major UC providers as these platforms continue to evolve and become more commonly adopted;
failure to match production to demand given long lead times and the difficulty of forecasting unit volumes and acquiring the component parts to meet demand without having excess inventory or incurring cancellation charges;
volatility in prices from our suppliers, including our manufacturers located in China, have and could negatively affect our profitability and/or market share;
fluctuations in foreign exchange rates;
the bankruptcy or financial weakness of distributors or key customers, or the bankruptcy of or reduction in capacity of our key suppliers; and
further impairment losses on the carrying value of our intangible assets and goodwill could be recognized if it is determined the value is not recoverable which would adversely affect our financial results;
additional risk factors including: interruption in the supply of sole-sourced critical components, continuity of component supply at costs consistent with our plans, the inherent risks of our substantial foreign operations, and problems which might affect our manufacturing facilities in Mexico, and unexpected delays and uncertainties affecting our ability to realize targeted expense reductions and annualized savings by outsourcing the manufacturing of our Bluetooth products in China to GoerTek, Inc.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 1, 2010, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html

Financial Summaries

The following related charts are provided:

View All

Summary Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Unaudited GAAP to Non-GAAP Statements of Operations Reconciliations for the Three Months ended June 30, 2010 and June 30, 2009
Summary Unaudited Statements of Operations and Related Data on a Non-GAAP Basis

About Plantronics

Plantronics and IBM Offer Tools for Businesses to Collaborate and Work Smarter

admin — Tue, 18 May 2010 12:00:13 +0000

Plantronics Delivers New Functionality for IBM Unified Communication and Collaboration (UC²) Solutions

SANTA CRUZ, C.A., – May 18, 2010 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced new audio functions and tools for the current IBM Lotus® Sametime® and Sametime Unified Telephony (SUT) products to help employees stay connected and be more productive — even when on the go. The Plantronics Plug-in for Sametime, new software that delivers intelligent call control between Plantronics’ full Unified Communications product portfolio and IBM Sametime, provides users with exceptional online meeting and telephony experiences with enhanced audio quality.

Epilio uses IBM Lotus Sametime to increase the effectiveness of its virtual workforce by integrating voice, data and video communications on the PC. ”As an organization with no single physical office location, we rely heavily on our Unified Communications infrastructure to provide customers with the high level of expertise and responsiveness they expect. With the new Plantronics software we’ve experienced immediate usability and productivity benefits,” said Carl Tyler, director at Epilio, “With its intuitive one-click call control functionality integration, the Plantronics endpoints have transformed our PCs into true audio platforms, allowing our employees to quickly switch between PC-based VoIP calls and customer telephone calls without missing a beat.”

The Plantronics Plug-in for Sametime enables users to place and take voice and video calls, as well as join a web conference, on the go — letting them work the way they want. The new plug-in provides integrated audio and video features by providing remote answer/end, mute and volume control so users can gain hands-free mobility and easily control calls directly from the audio device. The functionality extends to Plantronics’ wireless products, including the Voyager® PRO UC and the Savi® Office system, to enable users to switch conversations between multiple devices, including the PC, desk phone and mobile phone, from the audio device with a single button press.

Plantronics provides audio endpoint products that have been tested and have met the interoperability tests in IBM’s SUT Testing Center, assuring complete software and hardware interoperability.“IBM and Plantronics have been working closely together to deliver a very rich user experience that leverages Plantronics’ full portfolio of audio devices with Sametime’s extensive UC capabilities,” said Bruce Morse, vice president, Unified Communication and IBM Lotus at IBM. “The result is a UC solution that delivers an enhanced end-user experience, is extremely easy to deploy and accelerates customer adoption of UC.”

“Plantronics strives to assure that IBM customers realize the full value of their investment in Sametime,” said Jeffrey Siegel, vice president of Business Development at Plantronics. “We do that through intelligent audio devices that deliver great meeting experiences through unparalleled sound quality for all and comfort for the user. The agility that comes from being wirelessly connected to Sametime and controlling all audio functions through a single Plantronics device makes the experience, and the value, that much richer.”

IBM Sametime customers can download the software today at www.plantronics.com/ibmuc. For more information, please visit the Plantronics Voice of UC blog.

Plantronics – The Voice of Unified Communications™

Plantronics offers the industry’s most complete portfolio of corded and wireless Unified Communications audio endpoints. Widely recognized for their sound quality, reliability and simplicity, Plantronics’ audio solutions help companies broaden the benefits of IP communications throughout the extended enterprise, fostering better business communications and efficiency regardless of where professionals are working.

For more information about Plantronics’ UC-ready products, visit www.plantronics.com/uc.

About Plantronics

Plantronics, Savi, Sound Innovation, and The Voice of Unified Communications are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. IBM, Lotus, Sametime and Sametime Unified Telephony are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States, other countries or both. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.

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Plantronics Announces Completion of the Sale of Altec Lansing to Prophet Equity

admin — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:03:18 +0000

SANTA CRUZ, CA - December 2, 2009 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced its sale of Altec Lansing, the Audio Entertainment Group (”AEG”) segment, to an affiliate of Prophet Equity LP, a Southlake, Texas based private equity firm for consideration of approximately $16.2 million in cash, net of liabilities assumed, and subject to certain adjustments following the closing. The transaction was completed effective December 1, 2009. The change in the consideration from $18 million as previously announced to $16.2 million reflects the change in the estimated value of net assets being delivered at closing together with the negotiated after-tax value of income in November.

Under the terms of the sale, Plantronics will retain certain Altec Lansing assets and liabilities, including accounts receivable, accounts payable and certain other liabilities. As a result, Plantronics expects these net assets to result in additional operating cash flow once the retained working capital assets are monetized in fiscal 2010. Plantronics will also retain assets and/or the use of certain assets with strategic value, including the right to use the Altec Lansing brand for specific music applications for two years.

As a result of the sale of Altec Lansing, Plantronics expects all future and historical AEG segment results to be reported as discontinued operations in its financial statements beginning in the third quarter of fiscal 2010.

Safe Harbor

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements that the Company expects that the net assets realized from the sale of Altec Lansing will result in additional operating cash flow once the retained working capital assets are monetized in fiscal 2010.

There are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any such statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: (1) failure to achieve the anticipated levels of cash flow due to lower sales, increased costs, higher inventories, slow collection of accounts receivable or other factors; (2) economic conditions in the domestic and international markets; (3) our ability to realize our UC plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC adoption; and (4) volatility in prices from our suppliers, including our manufacturers located in China. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 26, 2009, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.

About Plantronics

Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

About Prophet Equity

Prophet Equity is a private equity firm that uses proven, data-driven analytical techniques coupled with over 100 years of investment and management experience to invest in, unlock and realize future value today. Partnering with owners and management teams, Prophet Equity’s team utilizes a toolkit that is Fortune 500 tested and private equity proven to diagnose and drive dramatic value creation. Portfolio company management teams are highly motivated with clear, uncapped incentives based on realized business performance.

Over the last decade alone, Prophet’s Principals have invested and managed approximately $300 million of control equity in entities with over $2.5 billion in revenue. Their control equity investments focus on lower and middle market companies with strategically strong businesses with significant value creation potential, such as those found in partnerships, corporate carve-outs, divestitures and non-strategic businesses of larger companies. Representative business situations include special situations, succession planning, recapitalizations, reorganizations, turnarounds, acquisitions, mergers and bankruptcies. For more information, please visit www.prophetequity.com or call us at +1.817.898.1500.

About Altec Lansing

For more than 70 years, Altec Lansing has been viewed among audiophiles as one of the world’s most valuable and innovative audio brands and boasts a unique history of innovation that includes the introduction of first talkie film speakers, the first iPod docking station and the first “Works with iPhone” speaker system. Altec Lansing makes a wide range of audio systems for the home and office; a line of headphones for personal listening; and the popular line of inMotion speaker systems for portable digital players. Altec Lansing LLC is headquartered in Milford, PA.

For more information on Altec Lansing or to purchase one of our award winning products, please visit www.alteclansing.com or call us at +1.866.570.5702.

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Award-Winning Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975 Bluetooth Headsets Now Available at Verizon Wireless Stores Nationwide

admin — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:00:45 +0000

SANTA CRUZ, CA - December 2, 2009 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, today announced the availability of the award-winning Plantronics Voyager(R) PRO and Discovery 975 Bluetooth(R) headsets at Verizon Wireless Communications stores across the United States.

“Consumers and critics have loved the Voyager PRO and newly released Discovery 975’s outstanding audio performance and superior comfort and usability,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “We are pleased to have Verizon Wireless stores carry two of Plantronics’ best Bluetooth headsets and bring them to a wider audience. We expect them to be strong sellers at Verizon Wireless stores.”

Best-in-Class Bluetooth Headsets

The Plantronics Voyager PRO provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of the coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and PC Magazine, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features a unique dual-microphone boom and AudioIQ2, next generation digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to precisely capture the user’s voice and simultaneously cancel background noise. It features three layers of WindSmart(R) technology to minimize wind noise and delivers rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for mobile professionals, the Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and the battery provides up to six hours of talk time before having to recharge.

The Plantronics Discovery 975 headset, also a CNET Editor’s Choice award winner, is the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technology. It provides ingeniously simple one-touch controls and is perfect for quick on/off wearing. The sleek, elegant design houses sophisticated technology, including AudioIQ2 DSP technology with dual-microphones to cancel background noise and three layers of WindSmart(R) technology to minimize wind noise. It comes with an innovative rechargeable carrying case with LCD screen that can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours.

The Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975 are the only two Bluetooth headsets to have received CNET’s Editors’ Choice award in 2009.

To learn more about Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975, please visit www.plantronics.com or www.verizonwireless.com.

About Plantronics

Plantronics, AudioIQ2, Engineered for Sound Quality, Plantronics Voyager, and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth(R) word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Award-Winning Plantronics Headsets Help Oregon and Big Island Drivers Comply with New Hands-Free Laws

admin — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:00:55 +0000

Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices

Salem, Oregon and Hilo, Hawaii - December 1, 2009 - Come January 1, the state of Oregon and the County of Hawaii (Big Island) will join states and cities across the United States and ban the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while driving a motor vehicle. Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages Oregon and Big Island drivers to get ready for the new law by familiarizing themselves with the available hands-free options and a few simple safety tips.

“Plantronics is pleased to see Oregon and the Big Island join the increasing number of municipalities, counties and states adopting hands-free legislation to help motorists keep both hands on the wheel,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “Complying with the law is easy because users have more options than ever before. Plantronics offers a broad portfolio of headsets that fit a wide range of personal styles and budgets while still providing the first-rate audio quality, comfort and style that consumers expect from Plantronics.”

Today’s busy commuters often make mobile phone calls on the road which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking in the car while keeping both hands on the wheel. Drivers in Oregon and the Big Island should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:

Try it out: Test your headset with your phone before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset’s controls and adjust the fit and volume. Make sure your headset and phone are connected and store your phone so it is out of your way but still accessible.
Get organized: Make sure frequently called numbers are programmed into your phone. Most phones have voice-dialing; be sure to use this feature so you aren’t fumbling with your phone while driving.
Set it up: Add headset preparation to your pre-driving checklist. Buckle your seatbelt, check your rearview mirror, and put on your headset and make sure it’s connected to your phone before you drive.
Focus on the road: Always remember that driving safely is your first priority. You should focus on the road and only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

Best-in-Class Bluetooth Headsets

Among the Bluetooth(R) headsets available to drivers in Oregon and the Big Island are the Plantronics Voyager(R) PRO and the Plantronics Discovery(R) 975 headsets.

The Plantronics Voyager PRO provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of the coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and PC Magazine, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features AudioIQ2, next generation digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to deliver superior noise and wind cancellation as well as rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for drivers, Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and the battery provides up to six hours of talk time before having to recharge.

The Plantronics Discovery 975 headset, also a CNET Editor’s Choice award winner, is the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technology. It provides ingeniously simple one-touch controls to keep drivers focused on the road, not the headset. The sleek, elegant design houses sophisticated technology, including AudioIQ2DSP technology with dual-microphones to cancel background noise and three layers of WindSmart(R) technology to minimize wind noise. It comes with an innovative rechargeable carrying case that can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours.

Both the Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975 headsets are available at leading retail and wireless carrier stores. To learn more about the headsets and see a complete listing of Plantronics’ hands-free products, please visit: www.plantronics.com.

Tweet to Win

Plantronics is giving US residents a chance to win the award winning Plantronics Discovery 975 and Voyager PRO headsets in December.

Just follow @Plantronics on Twitter and then visit www.plantronics.com/handsfree for information about how to enter. A drawing will be held every week. At the end of the month, one grand prize winner will receive both headsets and a $1,000 gas card.

About Plantronics

AudioIQ2, Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, Plantronics Voyager and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth(R) word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Plantronics Wins Prestigious Best of CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Award

kauby — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:00:25 +0000

Plantronics Savi Office Recognized for Unifying Voice Communications and Multimedia with Brilliant Audio Quality and One-Touch Simplicity

New York, New York – November 10, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, today announced that the Savi™ Office Wireless Headset System has been named a Best of International CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Awards Winner in the Headphones category. Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by an esteemed panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge products across 36 product categories.

Unified Communications Made Simple

Plantronics Savi Office is a multi-function wireless headset system for Unified Communications that enables calling from both desk phones and computer softphones (VoIP). Savi Office supports softphone applications from leading providers, including Avaya, Cisco, IBM, and Microsoft, and other popular services, such as Google Talk and Skype with high-end wideband audio

In addition to basic call switching, Savi Office delivers advanced call control that enables the audio from the desk phone and the computer to be put on hold, muted or mixed together for easy conferencing. The system supports leading multimedia players so users can also listen to music and videos without missing a call. Savi Office uses the DECT™ 6.0 voice-dedicated frequency, providing users 350-feet of range from the base. Savi Office features adaptive power, meaning the headset uses less battery power when it is closer to the base system.

“Nearly 50 years of design and engineering innovations have gone into creating Savi Office,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “The CES Innovations Award further establishes that the distinctions between consumer and enterprise products are becoming increasingly blurred. Today’s workers demand business-class audio quality and reliability combined with the ease-of-use and styling of consumer devices.”

CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. They are sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®, the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.

Plantronics Savi Office will be displayed at the 2010 International CES, which runs January 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase will feature honorees by product category in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center and will also be featured at CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES on Tuesday, January 5.

The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:

Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used

Aesthetic and design qualities, using photos provided

The product’s intended use/function and user value

Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive

How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace

Products chosen as an Innovations honoree reflect innovative design and engineering of the entries. Examples may include the first time various technologies are combined in a single product or dramatic enhancements to previous product designs.

Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering honoree products are featured on www.CESweb.org/Innovations, which lists product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL.

Award-Winning Plantronics Headsets Help Philadelphia Drivers Comply with New Hands-Free Law

admin — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:04 +0000

Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices

PHILADELPHIA, PA – October 26, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages Philadelphia drivers and visitors to prepare for the new hands-free law by educating themselves on the headset options available and following a few simple safety tips. Effective this Saturday, November 1, the city of Philadelphia will ban the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle unless a hands-free device is used.

“Plantronics is pleased to see Philadelphia join the increasing number of municipalities, counties, and states adopting hands-free legislation to help motorists keep both hands on the wheel,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “Complying with the law is easy because users have more options than ever before. Plantronics offers a broad portfolio of headsets that fit a wide range of usage patterns, budgets and personal styles while still providing the first-rate audio quality, comfort, and style that consumers expect from us.”

Today’s busy commuters often make calls on the road using a mobile phone which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking in the car while keeping both hands on the wheel. Drivers in Philadelphia should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:

Try it out: Test your headset with your phone before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset’s controls and adjust the fit and volume. Make sure your headset and phone are connected and store your phone so it is out of your way but still accessible.
Get organized: Make sure frequently called numbers are programmed into your phone. Most phones have voice-dialing; be sure to use this feature so you aren’t fumbling with your phone while driving.
Set it up: Add headset preparation to your pre-driving checklist. Buckle your seatbelt, check your rearview mirror, and put on your headset and make sure it’s connected to your phone before you drive.
Focus on the road: Always remember that driving safely is your first priority. You should focus on the road and only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

Best-in-Class Bluetooth Headsets

Among the Bluetooth® headsets available to drivers in Philadelphia are the Plantronics Voyager® PRO and the Plantronics Discovery® 975 headsets.

The Plantronics Voyager PRO provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of the coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and PC Magazine, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features AudioIQ², next generation digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to deliver superior noise and wind cancellation as well as rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for drivers, Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and the battery provides up to six hours of talk time before having to recharge.

The Plantronics Discovery 975 headset, also a CNET Editor’s Choice award winner, is the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technology. It provides ingeniously simple one-touch controls to keep drivers focused on the road, not the headset. The sleek, elegant design houses sophisticated technology, including AudioIQ²DSP technology with dual-microphones to cancel background noise and three layers of WindSmart® technology to minimize wind noise. It comes with an innovative rechargeable carrying case that can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours.

Both the Plantronics Voyager PRO and Discovery 975 headsets are available at leading retail and wireless carrier stores nationwide. To learn more about the headsets and see a complete listing of Plantronics’ hands-free products, please visit: www.plantronics.com.

Plantronics recognizes that there are occasions when driving circumstances make talking on a mobile phone – handheld or hands-free – unsafe. In these instances, motorists should pull over or hang up to protect the safety of themselves, their passengers and others on the road.

About Plantronics

AudioIQ2, Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, Plantronics Voyager and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Award-Winning Plantronics Headsets Are Ideal Choice for Ontario Residents to Comply with New Hands-free Law

admin — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:00:15 +0000

Use Your Head, Not Your Hands: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel While Using Mobile Devices

TORONTO – October 19, 2009 – Effective October 26, Ontario law mandates the use of hands-free devices when using mobile phones on the road. Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the world leader in communication headsets for over 48 years, encourages all Ontario drivers to prepare for the new law by educating themselves on the hands-free options available and following a few simple safety tips.

Today’s busy commuters often make calls on the road using a handheld phone which can cause physical impairments while driving. With the use of headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of talking on a cell phone in the car while keeping both hands on the wheel. Ontario’s more than eight million licensed drivers should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:

Practice Makes Perfect: Try using your phone and headset together before you drive. Get to know the controls and adjust the fit. Check the headset settings on your cell phone and store the phone in the car so it’s out of your way but still accessible.
Get Organized: Program all of your frequently called numbers into your phone. That includes your office, your kids’ school and your favorite takeout restaurant. Don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible to avoid becoming distracted by manual dialing while driving.
Set It Up: Just as you check your rearview mirror and buckle your seatbelt before driving, put on your headset and make sure it’s properly connected to your phone.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road: Always remember that your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

“Plantronics offers an array of headset models that fit a wide range of usage patterns, budgets and personal styles while still providing the first-rate audio quality, comfort, and style that consumers expect from us,” said Elizabeth Bastiaanse-Hamren, vice president of Product Marketing at Plantronics. “No matter the hands-free solution they choose, we are glad to know that the citizens of Ontario will now have both hands on the wheel when talking.”

Award-Winning Headset for Ontario Drivers: Plantronics Voyager PRO

Among the headsets available to Ontario drivers is the new Plantronics Voyager® PRO Bluetooth® headset, which provides the industry’s most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology. Winner of coveted Editors’ Choice awards from CNET and PC Magazine, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features AudioIQ², the next generation of its digital signal processing (DSP) technology, to deliver superior noise and wind cancellation as well as rich, natural inbound audio so you can hear and be heard clearly. Ideal for drivers, Plantronics Voyager PRO is extremely comfortable and provides six hours of continuous talk time before having to recharge.

The Plantronics Voyager PRO headset is available today at Best Buy Canada and Bell retail stores. The Voyager PRO is coming soon to Telus retail stores. Plantronics headsets are also available at Wal-Mart, Staples, Future Shop, and Rogers Retail stores throughout Ontario. For a complete listing of Plantronics’ products, please visit www.plantronics.com.

About Plantronics

Plantronics, AudioIQ², and Plantronics Voyager are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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Plantronics Organizes to Focus on Unified Communications Opportunity, Enters Definitive Agreement to Sell Altec Lansing

inolan — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:42:20 +0000

SANTA CRUZ, CA - October 2, 2009 - Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Altec Lansing, the Audio Entertainment Group of Plantronics, to Prophet Equity LP, a Southlake, Texas - based private equity firm, for consideration of approximately $18 million in cash, net of liabilities assumed, and subject to certain adjustments. The transaction, which was approved by Plantronics’ Board of Directors on October 1, 2009, is expected to close by the end of October.

In concert with the sale of Altec Lansing assets, Plantronics also announced a streamlined functional corporate structure, replacing the matrix it had operated with, to best target the Unified Communications opportunity.

“Unified Communications represents the greatest revenue and profit opportunity in the Company’s history. The reorganization and asset sale represent further steps to focus on our core market, improve the Company’s return on invested capital and enhance time to market and profitability through a simpler organizational structure,” stated Ken Kannappan, President & CEO.

Under the terms of the agreement, Plantronics will retain certain Altec Lansing assets and liabilities as of the closing date, including accounts receivable, accounts payable and certain other liabilities. As a result, the Company expects these net assets to result in additional operating cash flow once the retained working capital assets are monetized in fiscal 2010. Plantronics will also retain assets and/or use of certain assets with strategic value to Plantronics, including the right to use the Altec Lansing brand for specific music applications for three years. As a result of the sale of Altec Lansing, we expect all future and historical AEG segment results to be reported as discontinued operations in Plantronics financial statements beginning in the third quarter of fiscal 2009.

In the quarter ended September 26, 2009, Plantronics has determined that it will be required to record an impairment charge related to its AEG long-lived assets which includes the remaining intangible assets from the Altec Lansing acquisition in 2005 along with potential other long-lived assets within the AEG segment. The impairment analysis is being performed and we currently estimate the non-cash impairment charge, net of the tax benefit, to be in the range of $13 to $16 million.

“Capital freed up by the sale of Altec Lansing will be redeployed to its highest and best use. Our philosophy is to use excess cash to drive stockholder value and the primary vehicle we have used to accomplish this is through stock repurchase programs. Throughout our history, we have bought back over $425 million of stock and are currently executing on our 19^th stock repurchase program. We intend to continue to buy back stock on a regular basis with cash beyond domestic requirements,” stated Barbara Scherer, Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration & CFO.

“Altec Lansing contributed to our success in the consumer market, where we are today a Bluetooth headset market leader and we will work hard to ensure a smooth transition for Altec Lansing’s partners and customers. We are confident that Prophet Equity LP will continue to manage the business effectively,” Kannappan concluded.

“Prophet Equity is delighted to be partnering with Altec Lansing at this time in its history, as we believe it is an influential and dynamic company with a bright future in many portable digital audio platforms,” commented Ross Gatlin, CEO at Prophet Equity. “This transaction leverages our operational and strategic toolkit as well as underscores our internal capabilities to execute complex carve outs.” Gatlin added.

George Stelling, COO at Prophet Equity, commented further that “Our team sees Altec Lansing’s compelling audio technologies, its global customer and supply base, and its top notch management team as strengths that are unrivaled in the audio market today. We look forward to helping grow the company, to partnering with Plantronics in the future on new platforms, and to serving Altec’s enthusiastic and loyal customers for many years to come.”

Houlihan Lokey is serving as financial advisor, and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is serving as legal advisor to Plantronics in connection with the transaction.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to (i) the proposed sale of the Audio Entertainment Group to Prophet Equity, (ii) the opportunities provided by Unified Communications (”UC”); (iii) the effects of the reorganization of the Company’s corporate structure and the sale of the Audio Entertainment Group; (iv) the retained working capital assets and our ability to monetize them; (v) the estimated impairment charge; (vi) our use of the capital from the sale of Altec Lansing, including the stock repurchase program; and (vii) the effects of the sale of Altec Lansing on Altec Lansing, including its effects on Altec Lansing’s partners and customers. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements, whether as the result of new developments or otherwise.

uncertainty as to whether the sale of Altec Lansing to Prophet Equity will be completed;
the failure of either party to meet the closing conditions set forth in the asset purchase agreement pursuant to which Plantronics will sell Altec Lansing to Prophet Equity;
reaction of Altec Lansing’s customers, suppliers and partners to the sale of Altec Lansing;
economic conditions in both the domestic and international markets;
the bankruptcy or financial weakness of distributors or key customers, or the bankruptcy of or reduction in capacity of our key suppliers;
our ability to realize our UC plans and to achieve the financial results projected to arise from UC adoption could be adversely affected by the following factors: (i) as UC becomes more widely adopted, the risk that competitors will offer solutions that will effectively commoditize our headsets which, in turn, will reduce the sales prices for our headsets; (ii) our plans are dependent upon adoption of our UC solution by major platform providers such as Microsoft, Avaya, IBM and Cisco, and we have a limited ability to influence such providers with respect to the functionality of their platforms, their rate of deployment, and their willingness to integrate their platforms with our solutions; (iii) the development of UC solutions is technically complex and this may delay or obstruct our ability to introduce solutions to the market on a timely basis and that are cost effective, feature rich, stable and attractive to our customers; (iv) as UC becomes more widely adopted we anticipate that competition for market share will increase, and some competitors may have superior technical and economic resources, and (v) UC solutions may not be adopted with the breadth and speed in the marketplace that we currently anticipate;

further impairment losses on the carrying value of our intangible assets and goodwill could be recognized if it is determined the value is not recoverable which would adversely affect our financial results; and

additional risk factors including: interruption in the supply of sole-sourced critical components, continuity of component supply at costs consistent with our plans, the inherent risks of our substantial foreign operations, and problems which might affect our manufacturing facilities in Mexico, and unexpected delays and uncertainties affecting our ability to realize targeted expense reductions and annualized savings through implementation of our plan to outsource the manufacturing of our Bluetooth products in China to GoerTek, Inc.

About Plantronics
Plantronics is a world leader in personal audio communications for professionals and consumers. From unified communication solutions to Bluetooth headsets, Plantronics delivers unparalleled audio experiences and quality that reflect our nearly 50 years of innovation and customer commitment. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100 and is the headset of choice for air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

About Prophet Equity

Altec Lansing and Plantronics are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners

Ingeniously Simple Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth Earpiece Marries Innovative Design with AudioIQ2 and WindSmart Noise-Canceling Technologies

admin — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:00:32 +0000

One-of-a-Kind Charging Case Can Triple Talk Time from 5 to Up to 15 Hours

SANTA CRUZ, CA – August 20, 2009 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the leading manufacturer of premium headsets, today announced the new Plantronics Discovery® 975 Bluetooth® earpiece. The Plantronics Discovery 975 is the next generation of the Discovery 925, which was lauded for its superior audio quality and innovative lightweight design. Customers will enjoy an improved audio experience with advanced AudioIQ²and WindSmart® technologies, which deliver natural sounding voice in harsh noise environments, coupled with Plantronics’ legendary inbound audio quality, comfort, and durability.

“Consumers expect great outbound noise cancellation in a premium headset, but they are tired of sacrificing usability, comfort, and quality,” said Renee Niemi, vice president and general manager of the Plantronics Mobile and Entertainment Division. “At Plantronics we have spent nearly five decades perfecting all aspects of headset design from inbound audio quality to fit. For customers seeking the perfect blend of innovative design and advanced audio technologies, the Discovery 975 is the ingeniously simple solution.”

Industry-Leading Performance

The Discovery 975 features AudioIQ², the next generation of Plantronics’ AudioIQ digital signal processing (DSP) technology, and two microphones to precisely capture the user’s voice and simultaneously cancel background noise. Users don’t have to worry about pressing special buttons or having sensors touch their face to activate the noise-canceling capabilities — AudioIQ² works automatically wherever the user is having a conversation.

Plantronics Discovery 975 addresses wind noise with three layers of WindSmart technology. It features grooved vents on the boom and acoustic fabrics that surround the microphones to block wind. In addition, electronic filters within AudioIQ² remove wind noise during conversations and help deliver your clear, natural voice to the listener.

The Plantronics Discovery 975 also provides the great inbound audio quality for which Plantronics is known. The earpiece includes an adaptive 20-band equalizer that delivers rich, full voice and works with AudioIQ² to automatically adjust incoming calls to comfortable listening levels based on the noise level around you.

One-Of-A-Kind Charging Case

The Discovery 975 comes with an improved rechargeable carrying case that can triple talk time from 5 hours to up to 15 hours while protecting and storing the earpiece. The new case includes an LCD screen that displays the battery and earpiece charge levels, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. With the rechargeable case, users don’t have to worry about constantly finding a wall outlet and can finally see the charge level in their headset, so they won’t run out of battery life in the middle of a call.

Intuitive User Experience & Simple Design

At only 8 grams, the Plantronics Discovery 975 is a lightweight headset featuring Plantronics’ signature boom, which captures speech close to the mouth to ensure your voice sounds natural. Perfect for quick on/off wearing, the earpiece uses the same patented soft gel ear tips customers loved on the Discovery 925 for a stable, comfortable fit that doesn’t invade the ear canal. The Discovery 975 includes two buttons for ease of use: one button for powering on/off and call answer/end and another button for volume control and mute. The Discovery 975 features voice prompts for low battery warnings, mute status and Bluetooth connectivity.

Pricing and Availability

The Plantronics Discovery 975 has a retail price of $129.99 and is available at www.plantronics.com and for pre-order at BestBuy.com and Amazon.com today. The Discovery 975 will be available in Best Buy and Apple stores in late August. Availability in AT&T, Radio Shack and Sprint stores follows in September/October. For more information about the Plantronics Discovery 975, please visit: www.plantronics.com/discovery975.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

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Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, AudioIQ², Plantronics Discovery, and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics is under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Plantronics to Oahu Drivers: Keep Both Hands on the Wheel When Talking!

admin — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:00:34 +0000

Headsets Can Help Oahu Residents and Visitors
Comply with New Hands-free Law

Santa Cruz, CA – July 1, 2009 – Headset manufacturer Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) is encouraging all residents of and visitors to Oahu, Hawaii to keep both hands on the wheel by following Honolulu’s new hands-free law that bans the use of handheld mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. The new legislation, which goes into effect on Wednesday, July 1, 2009, is a Honolulu city law that will be enforced across Oahu.

Talking on a cell phone in the car is routine for many of today’s busy drivers. With the use of hands-free devices like wireless headsets, these drivers can continue to enjoy the convenience of making calls on the road while keeping both hands on the wheel. Residents and those planning to vacation in Oahu this summer should consider the following safety tips while using a headset and driving:

- Have a Trial Run: Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible.

- Be Prepared: Program all of your frequently called numbers into your phone. That includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible.

- Set Up for Success: Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone.

- Remember That Driving Comes First: Always keep in mind that your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

“Plantronics understands that different drivers have different needs, so we offer an array of headset models that fit various lifestyle requirements and personal preferences while consistently delivering excellent audio quality, comfort and convenience,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president of Mobile & Entertainment for Plantronics. “Regardless of the type of the headset they choose, we are happy to know that drivers across Oahu will be keeping both hands on the wheel with this new legislation.”

Among the headsets available to Oahu drivers is the new Plantronics Voyager® PRO Bluetooth® headset, which provides the most advanced noise-canceling and wind noise reduction technology on the market. Awarded coveted Editor’s Choice awards by CNET and PC Magazine, the Plantronics Voyager PRO features two noise-canceling mics, AudioIQ² technology with an adaptive 20-band equalizer, and three layers of WindSmart® technology to ensure that Oahu commuters and visitors hear every word on a call and little background noise. This extremely comfortable, behind-the-ear headset reflects Plantronics’ 40-plus years of commitment to headset engineering excellence.

The Voyager PRO is available at Best Buy and Sprint stores today in Hawaii. For a complete listing of Plantronics’ products, please visit www.plantronics.com.

About Plantronics

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, AudioIQ², Plantronics Voyager, and WindSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth trademark is owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license.

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Mike Perkins Joins Plantronics as Vice President of Product Development and Technology

admin — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 23:51:32 +0000

23-Year HP Veteran Brings Proven Leadership in Hardware and Software Solution Development

SANTA CRUZ, CA – December 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced that Mike Perkins has joined the company as vice president of Product Development and Technology, responsible for leading the company’s global product development and engineering teams and programs.

“Mike will play an instrumental role in bringing innovation to Plantronics’ product portfolio and aligning it with key growth opportunities, including Unified Communications in the enterprise and mobile and audio convergence for consumers,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “His expertise in developing differentiated solutions that integrate hardware and software will be most valuable as the role of digital audio expands for all audiences.”

Mr. Perkins spent 23 years at HP. He was most recently the general manager and vice president of HP’s Voodoo Business Unit, a luxury brand including Envy notebooks and Omen desktops, and the Blackbird family of PC gaming products. In this role, Mr. Perkins managed a global team and had end-to-end responsibility for product development, manufacturing, marcom, sales, and support. Prior to this position, Mr. Perkins was the vice president of Research and Development for HP’s Global Consumer PC Business Unit, responsible for all development of the HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario consumer desktop PCs, including the HP Touchsmart. Mr. Perkins held several other research and development titles at HP and managed the “integration office” that coordinated the HP-Compaq merger cost savings activities for the combined PC-client business.

Mr. Perkins also spent three years as senior vice president of Research and Development at LeapFrog Enterprises, an educational electronic toy company known for developing innovative consumer products. At LeapFrog, Mr. Perkins was responsible for leading global software and hardware teams towards developing, in parallel, a wide variety and large number of products across multiple price points and target audiences.

“Mike’s rich background of consumer and business product innovation combined with his skill in navigating competitive time-to-market and cost pressures matches well to our business needs,” added Kannappan.

Mr. Perkins holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, San Diego.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of the respective owners.

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Plantronics Expands Its Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator Headset Portfolio

chithra — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:06:45 +0000

New Wideband Headsets Provide Professional Grade Audio Clarity and Reliability for PC-Based Conversations

Santa Cruz, Calif.— September 23, 2008 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today expanded its growing portfolio of Unified Communications headsets Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator with the new wideband .Audio™ 630M USB binaural headset and the .Audio™ 615M USB monaural headset. The qualification process ensures business users will benefit from a superior end-user experience for calls initiated through Microsoft Office Communicator 2007.

Wideband utilizes more than twice the audio bandwidth of conventional telephony to greatly enhance intelligibility. The new .Audio wideband headsets provide users with the feeling of true “face-to-face” conversations, resulting in improved business communication during PC-based audio and video conference calls, and person-to-person calls.

“As unified communication voice applications become mainstream, business users and IT decision makers require the highest quality headsets to ensure a positive experience,” said Amy Huson, director of UC Product Marketing at Plantronics. “Developing products that are qualified by Microsoft adds value for our customers who want to experience improved communication and more effective collaboration.”

Both headsets are lightweight and comfortable with a flexible headband. Users connect to their PCs via USB, which provides enhanced digital audio for consistent sound quality. In addition to providing wideband audio, the .Audio 630M headset enables users to listen to music in stereo. The .Audio 615M is an easy-to-use wideband headset for users of Microsoft Office Communicator 2007.

“Office Communicator 2007 is transforming business communications by providing the most advanced and seamless unified communications experience,” said Moz Hussain, director of Product Management, Microsoft Corp. “Because Plantronics’ wideband .Audio 615M and .Audio 630M headsets are Optimized for Microsoft Office Communicator, businesses have confidence their employees may use these products for clear voice communications and optimal productivity.”

The products are now available and may be purchased through authorized Plantronics resellers. The .Audio 630M, a multi-purpose binaural headset featuring stereo, has an MSRP of $49.95. The .Audio 615M, a monaural headset, has an MSRP of $44.95.

Plantronics – The Voice of Unified Communications

Plantronics offers one of the industry’s most complete family of corded and wireless products for unified communications. Widely recognized for their sound quality, reliability and comfort, Plantronics’ audio solutions help companies extend the benefits of IP communications throughout the enterprise, fostering better business communication and efficiency.

For more information about Plantronics’ UC-ready products, visit: http://www.plantronics.com/uc

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of innovation is the basis for every audio product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, .Audio, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Plantronics Introduces New Dual-Mic Voyager 835 Bluetooth Headset

chithra — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:09:23 +0000

Plantronics Combines Dual-Mic AudioIQ with WindSmart for Unrivaled Headset Experience

New York – September 18, 2008 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today unveiled the new Voyager 835 Bluetooth^® Headset featuring three advanced noise cancelling technologies that together provide superior clarity and natural voice on both sides of a conversation.

The new Voyager 835 offers Plantronics Dual-Mic AudioIQ^®, a combination of its proprietary DSP algorithm which intelligently optimizes audio levels and fidelity on both sides of a conversation, with precisely configured dual microphones to significantly reduce background noise. The inclusion of dual-microphones allows the Voyager 835 to accurately isolate voice signals: one microphone captures voice as the second microphone identifies background noise and removes it.

Combined with Plantronics’ WindSmart^® technology, which filters and reduces wind distortion, the Voyager 835 delivers comprehensive noise-cancelation benefits without over-processing audio, so voices sound natural during conversations.

“The Voyager 835 is designed to defeat wind and other background noise in a variety of real-world environments, such as a busy city street, crowded restaurant or car with the air conditioning blowing,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president, Mobile & Entertainment for Plantronics, Inc. “By focusing on everyday call scenarios, Plantronics developed a headset that provides exactly what consumers want: brilliant, true-to-life audio on both sides of a conversation that doesn’t succumb to noisy environments and never sounds unnatural.”

Ultimate Comfort and Ease-of-Use

The new Voyager 835 weighs in at less than 12 grams and meets Plantronics’ strict acoustic fit criteria with contoured, universal-fit eartips that rest gently on the wearer and channel sound directly into the ear canal for improved receive clarity. A slim yet highly durable ear loop secures the headset without discomfort and does not interfere with eyewear.

The Voyager 835 headset is designed with simple-to-use volume and call answer / end controls. Another benefit of the Voyager 835 is the inclusion of multipoint technology, which permits users to take calls from any two Bluetooth phones – like a business and a personal phone – from a single headset. Talk time is up to five hours, stand-by time up to five days and multiple charging options are available, including an in-car kit.

“Plantronics has a 46-year history of innovation across all facets of sound performance – from noise-canceling microphones to DSP algorithms and wind technologies. The Voyager 835 is a reflection of our commitment to surpassing customer expectation with products the deliver superior sound, quality and comfort,” added Niemi.

Pricing and Availability
The new Plantronics Voyager 835 Bluetooth Headset will be available October 2008 at select CE retailers and www.plantronics.com for $119.95 (U.S. MSRP). For more information visit: http://www.plantronics.com/north_america/en_US/products/mobile/bluetooth-headsets/voyager-835.

About Plantronics

Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, AudioIQ^®, WindSmart^® and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Plantronics Teams with Dolby to Deliver Enhanced PC Game Play

admin — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:22:24 +0000

New GameCom 777 Surround Sound PC Headset Unleashes Surround Sound In Games

Santa Cruz, Calif.– August 29, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today announced the new GameCom 777^® Surround Sound Gaming Headset featuring Dolby^® Headphone technology, which allows users to play PC games, listen to music and watch movies with dramatic virtual 5.1 surround sound effects.

The Plantronics GameCom 777 features Dolby Headphone and Dolby Pro Logic^® II technologies in a plug-and-play USB sound card that digitally processes sound for immersive audio. Similar to its application in high-performance home theater systems, Dolby Pro Logic II, processes high-quality stereo (two-channel) (redundant with above) audio into five channels of full-bandwidth surround sound.

In addition to its surround sound capabilities, the GameCom 777 was engineered with numerous functional and ergonomic wearing benefits. Features include a unique ‘hide-away’ boom designed to tuck into the headband and turn the headset into a pair of high-quality headphones for music and multimedia use. A telescoping, noise-canceling microphone provides more accurate positioning for voice clarity. And in-line volume and microphone mute controls provide gamers fingertip audio and voice direction.

“Over the past 18 months, we have immersed ourselves in the gaming community to understand their unique headset needs,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president, Mobile & Entertainment for Plantronics. “We observed that they want a rugged, comfortable headset with the best sound available to improve competitive game play. The GameCom 777 delivers on these requirements by uniting Dolby digital surround sound with a durable, unique headset design that has been tuned for gamers.”

“Dolby surround sound is a great way to bring more excitement and realism to gaming sessions,” said Matt Tullis, Senior Manager, Games Market Segment, Dolby Laboratories. “And for gamers who play into the night, Dolby Headphone technology is designed to relieve the discomfort and fatigue that comes with extended headphone use.”

In additional to multi-directional Dolby virtual surround sound, the GameCom 777 delivers rich bass for a truly immersive gaming experience. A one-step USB 2.0/1.1 makes connection truly plug and play, versus competitive products requiring lengthy software downloads and bulky control boxes.

A Complete Lineup of PC Headsets

Alongside the GameCom 777, Plantronics is introducing two analog PC headsets – the GameCom 367® and GameCom 377® PC headsets. All three GameCom headsets are built of lightweight materials and feature specialized earpods to redistribute pressure for maximum comfort. Each headset offers the ‘hide-away’ boom, a telescoping, noise-canceling microphone and in-line volume and microphone mute controls. Cables are made of durable reinforced materials to withstand frequent wear and tear and abuse by gamers.

The complete line of new Plantronics’ PC gaming headsets includes the GameCom 777 Surround Sound Gaming Headset with Dolby technology (ESP $99.99), the GameCom 377 Open Ear Gaming Headset (ESP $49.99), and the GameCom 367 Closed-Ear Gaming Headset (ESP $39.99).

Each GameCom headset is compatible for VoIP internet programs such as Skype, Windows Live, and Yahoo! Messenger.

Gamers can check out the GameCom line of headsets at the Penny Arcade Expo in Seattle, WA on August 29 – 31. For more info on the Penny Arcade Expo visit www.pennyarcadeexpo.com

The GameCom 777, GameCom 367 and GameCom 377 headsets will be available in September at www.plantronics.com and at select retailers.

About Plantronics

Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. Dolby and Pro Logic are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

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Plantronics City: New Interactive Website Helps Drivers Prepare for Hands-free Laws

admin — Mon, 05 May 2008 23:39:06 +0000

California and Washington Drivers Can “Cruise” New Site to Gather Hands-free Information, Explore Headset Options and Win a New Bluetooth Headset

Santa Cruz, Calif. – May 5, 2008 – To help California and Washington drivers prepare for the upcoming hands-free laws in their states, Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today launched a new interactive Web site called Plantronics City. The Web site provides a one-stop resource for people who want to better understand the headset options available to them, and it includes resources for learning more about laws being adopted across the U.S. and tips for using hands-free devices while driving.

Following hands-free laws in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and the District of Columbia, California and Washington will enact new legislation on July 1, 2008 that will make it mandatory to use hands-free devices such as headsets when using a cell phone while driving. According to results gathered from a 2008 survey conducted by Plantronics in California and Washington, awareness and the implications of not following the law are widely unknown.

“Plantronics City is a great resource for drivers in California and Washington, as well as drivers in other states across the nation who might soon be affected by hands-free laws,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of corporate marketing, Plantronics. “The goal of the site is to provide a fun, interactive destination where visitors can educate themselves about the laws, select a headset that fits their individual needs, and learn tips and tricks for using hands-free devices while driving.”

Web Site Features Information, Music and Store

Plantronics City has a simple, intuitive map topology to make it easy for visitors to access various resource centers.

More than an informational resource, Plantronics City includes interactive sound, “cruising” music and a retail store. Some of the features and resources visitors will find include:

Hands-free Info: Information and resource links focused on hands-free legislation.
Shop Plantronics: Plantronics’ hands-free driving product portfolio that accommodates a variety of lifestyles and individual preferences. The site also includes in-car charging adapters for convenient charging and stowage while driving. Some of the products showcased include:

- Plantronics Discovery^® 925 Bluetooth Headset

- Plantronics Voyager^® 520 Bluetooth Headset

- Plantronics Explorer^® 360 Bluetooth Headset

· Bluetooth 101: A “how-to” Bluetooth guide for those trying to find the perfect headset.

· Plantronics Radio: Jam out while exploring Plantronics City.

The site also includes a real-time countdown to the July 1 enactment date, a tour guide feature to help visitors navigate the site, and headset suggestions based on environments (e.g., click on a café to learn what headset works best in a noisy, crowded location).

Win a Bluetooth Headset When You Take a Driving Tour of Plantronics City*

Site visitors have a chance to win an award-winning Plantronics Discovery 925 Bluetooth headset. There are 20 “Easter egg” secret locations throughout the site that visitors can try to find as they tour different environments, structures and other elements within the city. The first 20 visitors who click on these hidden locations will each win a headset.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation^® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Plantronics Discovery, Plantronics Explorer, Plantronics Voyager, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth^® word mark is owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of the mark by Plantronics, Inc. is under license.

*Hands-free 925 “Easter Egg” Promotion Terms and Conditions:

Winner must provide their contact information, including shipping address, to receive the free product. Plantronics will ship to shipping addresses within the United States, most U.S. territories, and APO/FPO addresses. Plantronics will not ship to P.O. boxes. Neither resellers of Plantronics products nor Plantronics associates are eligible to participate in this promotion. Winners will be disqualified if the program has malfunctioned or the program has been altered by anyone other than Plantronics. Plantronics reserves the right to end this promotion at its discretion without notice.

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Plantronics Survey Reveals 44 Percent of Polled California Drivers Don’t Know When State’s Hands-free Legislation Goes Into Effect

admin — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:46:13 +0000

New Law Will Impact More Than 23 Million Licensed Drivers in California

Santa Cruz, Calif. – April 9, 2008 – Despite the imminent nature of California’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and the consequences for non-compliance. According to a new survey by TNS and Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the largest headset manufacturer in California, 44 percent of California drivers don’t know when the new law goes into effect and 72 percent don’t have a strong familiarity with what it encompasses.

California’s new hands-free legislation, which goes into effect July 1, 2008, will impact more than 23 million licensed drivers.¹ The Plantronics survey, which polled 400 California licensed drivers, also found that 47 percent of respondents aren’t familiar with the consequences for not complying with the law. Other findings include:

Sixty-five percent of California drivers admitted to regularly talking on their cell phones while driving; their primary reasons were:
- To keep in touch with family members (57 percent)
- To take care of work-related issues (22 percent)
- To catch up with friends (12 percent)
Sixty-two percent of California drivers believe that headsets help eliminate physical distractions when performing driving tasks
Eighty-four percent of California drivers would recommend that their friends and loved ones use a headset

Details of California’s Hands-free Legislation

Under the new law, drivers cannot hold cell phones to their head while on the road. Hands-free devices such as headsets and speakerphones are mandatory when using a cell phone while driving. Drivers under the age of 18 cannot use cell phones while driving at all, even if used in conjunction with a hands-free device.

Not abiding by the hands-free law is a primary offense. Drivers will be stopped and fined – there will be no grace period and no warning tickets issued. Fines will be $20 for the first offense (up to $70 after penalties are added); subsequent violations will be $50 (up to $175 after penalties are added).

Safety Tips for Hands-free Devices

Plantronics offers the following tips for keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road when using your cell phone and hands-free device while driving:

Trial Run: Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible.
Be Prepared: Program all your frequently called numbers into your phone. This includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible.
Set Up for Success: Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone.
Driving Comes First: Remember your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

“It’s important for California drivers to not only familiarize themselves with the hands-free law, but also the options available to them to ensure compliance before the law goes into effect,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics. “We recognize that California drivers have many different needs, so we offer a wide variety of headsets that fit individual preferences and style. Regardless of the model, all Plantronics headsets deliver the audio performance, ease-of-use and comfort that customers have come to expect for the past 47 years.”

Visit www.plantronics.com/driversafety to learn more about the law, find the hands-free solution that’s best for you, and read up on more driving safety tips.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

According to the Public Inquiry office at the Department of Motor Vehicles, the total number of licensed drivers in the state of California is 23,237,087 (December 31, 2007).

Plantronics Survey Reveals 60 Percent of Polled Washington Drivers Don’t Know When State’s Hands-free Legislation Goes Into Effect

admin — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 23:22:40 +0000

New Law Will Impact 4.6 Million Licensed Drivers in Washington

Santa Cruz, Calif. – April 9, 2008 – Despite the imminent nature of Washington’s new legislation requiring all drivers to use hands-free devices while talking on cell phones, many are unfamiliar with the details of the law, including when it goes into effect and the consequences for non-compliance. According to a new survey by TNS and Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT), the worldwide leader in communication headsets, 60 percent of Washington drivers don’t know when the new law goes into effect and 78 percent don’t have a strong familiarity with what it encompasses.

On July 1, 2008, Washington will introduce its new hands-free legislation affecting 4.6 million drivers.¹ The Plantronics survey, which polled 400 licensed drivers in Washington, also found that 40 percent of respondents weren’t familiar with the consequences for not complying with the law. Other findings include:

Sixty percent of Washington drivers admitted to regularly talking on their cell phones while driving; their primary reasons were:
- To keep in touch with family members (63 percent)
- To take care of work-related issues (19 percent)
- To catch up with friends (8 percent)
Sixty percent of Washington drivers believe that headsets help eliminate physical distractions when performing driving tasks
Seventy-five percent of Washington drivers would recommend that their friends and loved ones use a headset

Details of Washington’s Hands-free Legislation

Under the new law, drivers cannot hold cell phones to their head while on the road. Hands-free devices such as headsets and speakerphones are mandatory when using a cell phone while driving.

Not abiding by the hands-free law is a secondary offense. Drivers will be stopped if they are found to be driving unsafely or if they are in violation of other laws. There will be no grace period and no warning tickets issued. Fines will be $124 for the first and subsequent violations.

Safety Tips for Hands-free Devices

Plantronics offers the following tips for keeping both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road when using your cell phone and hands-free device while driving:

Trial Run: Practice using your phone and headset together before you drive. Familiarize yourself with the headset controls. Adjust the fit and the microphone on your headset, check the headset settings on your cell phone and stow the phone so it’s out of your way but still accessible.
Be Prepared: Program all your frequently called numbers into your phone. This includes your boss, your kids’ babysitter and your favorite neighborhood pizza place. And don’t forget about voice dialing; most phones have that option, so use it as much as possible.
Set Up for Success: Just as you check your rearview mirror and secure your seatbelt before driving, be sure to put your headset on and ensure it’s connected properly to your phone.
Driving Comes First: Remember your first priority is driving. You should only place and receive calls when it’s absolutely necessary.

“It’s important for Washington drivers to not only familiarize themselves with the hands-free law, but also the options available to them to ensure compliance before the law goes into effect,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics. “We recognize that Washington drivers have many different needs, so we offer a wide variety of headsets that fit individual preferences and style. Regardless of the model, all Plantronics headsets deliver the audio performance, ease-of-use and comfort that customers have come to expect for the past 47 years.”

Visit www.plantronics.com/driversafety to learn more about the law, find the hands-free solution that’s best for you, and read up on more driving safety tips.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

¹ Washington State Department of Transportation, 2005.

Brian Dexheimer Joins Plantronics Board of Directors

admin — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:51:15 +0000

Seagate Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Brings Mix of Enterprise and Consumer Expertise to Plantronics’ Board

SANTA CRUZ, CA – April 1, 2008 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today strengthened its Board of Directors with the addition of Brian Dexheimer, chief sales and marketing officer at Seagate.

“Brian has a strong balance of enterprise and consumer expertise and a proven track record in helping companies grow their customer bases by anticipating future needs,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “His guidance and judgment in these areas will be very valuable to Plantronics.”

Promoted to chief marketing and sales officer in 2006, Dexheimer is responsible for the direction and management of Seagate’s five market-facing business units: Enterprise Storage, Personal Storage, Consumer Electronics Storage, Branded Solutions and New Business Initiatives. Prior to his current role, Dexheimer was the executive vice president of Sales, Marketing and Customer Service, where he helped Seagate grow its business in core markets and also expand to new markets with significant revenue opportunities.

A 22-year veteran of Seagate, Dexheimer has held a variety of leadership positions, including vice president and general manager of Seagate Removable Storage Solutions; senior vice president, Marketing and Product Line Management for Desktop disk drives; and senior vice president, Worldwide Sales and Marketing.

“Plantronics is at a very exciting stage in its 47-year history as trends in both the enterprise and consumer markets are increasing the value of the company’s offerings for the customer,” said Dexheimer. “I’m very pleased to join the Board of Directors and look forward to helping the company achieve its long-term business goals.”

Dexheimer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The University of Portland and a Masters of Science degree in Business Administration from Pepperdine University.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity, For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

Plantronics Remembers Long-Time Board Member Trude Taylor

admin — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 23:52:29 +0000

Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 25, 2008 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today paid tribute to the life of Trude Taylor, a technology pioneer and member of Plantronics’ Board of Directors for 39 years, who died unexpectedly on Friday, February 22.

“We are deeply saddened by Trude’s passing and extend our sincere condolences to his family,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “Trude was a consummate professional who contributed heavily to Plantronics’ success over the past four decades. He was a great role model, a very trusted advisor with excellent judgment, and a friend to all that met him.”

Other members of the Plantronics Board of Directors remarked on Trude’s legacy:

“Trude always carried himself with great dignity and grace, and I’m very grateful that we became colleagues and friends,” said Marv Tseu, director and chairman of the Board of Plantronics. “His technology insights and financial acumen were instrumental in helping shape Plantronics and preparing the company for broad growth. We’ll miss his bigger-than-life presence and ageless spirit.”

“I remember meeting Trude when I first started work on the Plantronics account in 1987 and being impressed with his knowledge and wisdom,” said Marshall Mohr. “My respect for those traits only grew over time. His contributions were immense and he will be missed.”

“Trude has been a true role model, providing great judgment and a unique balance of directness and tactfulness,” remarked Roger Wery. “He was an inspiration for all of us.”

Mr. Taylor has been a member of the Board of Directors since 1969, helping guide the company from a small start-up to the worldwide leader in communication headsets. Earlier in his career, Mr. Taylor was chairman of the Board of Directors, president and CEO of Electronic Memories and Magnetics Corporation, a manufacturer of computer peripherals.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation^® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Plantronics, Sound Innovation, Altec Lansing and Clarity are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

Plantronics to Consolidate Manufacturing Operations

admin — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:20:20 +0000

Cost Structure to Improve in Audio Entertainment Group (Altec Lansing)

SANTA CRUZ, CA- November 28, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc., (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Board of Directors and executive management approved a plan to close and/or consolidate a number of facilities that perform functions for its Audio Entertainment Group (AEG) as part of a strategic initiative to lower costs. AEG designs, makes and sells computer and home entertainment sound systems, and a line of headphones and microphones for personal digital media under the Altec Lansing and inMotion brands.

Specifically, Plantronics plans to close AEG’s manufacturing facility in Dongguan, China; shut down a related Hong Kong research and development, sales and procurement office; and consolidate procurement, research and development activities for AEG in a new Shenzhen, China site. The selling, general and administrative functions of AEG will also be consolidated with those of Plantronics Audio Communication Group through-out the Asia-Pacific region. These steps are part of a strategic initiative designed to reduce fixed costs by outsourcing AEG manufacturing to the network of qualified contract manufacturers it already has in place.

These actions will eventually result in the elimination of all manufacturing operations positions in Dongguan, China and certain related support functions. The plan will proceed in phases and is expected to be complete by March 2008. As a result, we currently expect cost savings of approximately $3 million in FY09 and $4 million in FY10.

We currently estimate that we will incur total costs and charges of approximately $4 to $4.5 million in connection with this consolidation plan. Of this total, we currently estimate that approximately $3.7 million, or $0.07 per share, will be incurred over the balance of the current fiscal year which ends in March 2008. For the quarter ending December 31, 2007, we currently estimate that we will incur approximately $2.8 million. No tax benefit is currently expected to be associated with these charges and they are expected to reduce GAAP EPS by $0.06 per share in the third quarter in comparison to the previously provided guidance in our press release dated October 23, 2007.

The preliminary estimates of the total costs and charges of $4 to $4.5 million in connection with this consolidation plan consist of approximately $2.2 million in non-cash charges for accelerated depreciation and fixed asset write-offs, and the balance in cash charges for severance and other non-recurring costs associated with the plan.

We believe we will recover the costs associated with this plan through reduced future expenses within two calendar years, and that the net present value of the cash flows associated with the plan is positive in comparison to the alternative of continuing with the current cost structure.

SAFEHARBOR

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements include the Company’s expectations regarding the occurrence or timing and amount of completion of any of the restructuring and other actions and activities described in this press release and the financial impact that such actions may have. There is a risk that restructuring may cost more than we currently expect. There is also a risk that the savings that we currently predict may not materialize and that the timing of costs and benefits may be different than what we currently expect. If the cost of restructuring is more than we currently anticipate or the savings that we currently anticipate from these consolidation activities do not materialize, this may adversely affect our future financial results.

For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed May 29, 2007, quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation^® is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, inMotion, Plantronics, and Sound Innovation, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

Plantronics Honored with Five Innovation Awards from Consumer Electronics Association

admin — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 16:51:34 +0000

Winning Products will be Displayed in First Unified Plantronics and Altec Lansing Booth at CES 2008

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – November 14, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that it has won five 2008 Innovations Design and Engineering Honoree Awards from the Consumer Electronics Association. The awards highlight Plantronics’ leadership in developing innovative communication and entertainment solutions across numerous categories, including headsets, telephony and mobile and computer accessories.

The winning products will be showcased under the banner theme “The Fusion of Voice, Music and Life” at the first joint Plantronics and Altec Lansing booth (#20913) at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, January 7-10, 2008. Plantronics acquired Altec Lansing in 2005 to combine its expertise in voice communication with Altec Lansing’s in music entertainment to better meet the full audio needs of consumers.

“Consumers expect more from their devices today as the lines between voice and music, home and work continue to blur,” said Clay Hausmann, vice president of Corporate Marketing, Plantronics, Inc. “Breakthroughs like the Plantronics Voyager™ 855 and Calisto™ Pro demonstrate our ability to translate consumer need into inspirational products that combine brilliant sound, ease of use and elegant design.”

Sound Innovation® for all Lifestyles

The five Innovations awards demonstrate the relevance of Plantronics and Altec Lansing expertise across a range of consumer applications and locations, from immersive music listening at a coffee shop to hands-free communications in the home. Following is the list of award-winning Plantronics products and categories in which they were recognized.

Plantronics Voyager™ 855 Bluetooth® headset –Headphones
Plantronics Voyager™ 855 Bluetooth® headset – Wireless Handset Accessories

The Plantronics Voyager 855 is the industry’s first convertible stereo Bluetooth headset for use with music-enabled mobile phones: http://www.plantronics.com/Voyager855

Plantronics Calisto Pro Series – Telephones

The Plantronics Calisto Pro Series is a revolutionary home phone system with multi-function Bluetooth® headset that lets consumers stay connected hands-free on landline, VoIP or mobile calls: http://www.plantronics.com/CalistoProSeries

Plantronics .Audio™ 480 USB Virtual Phone Booth™ – Computer Accessories

The Plantronics .Audio 480 USB Virtual Phone Booth offers users a stylish, portable sound-isolating corded headset and microphone that provides excellent stereo sound and superb voice quality: http://www.plantronics.com/VirtualPhoneBooth

Plantronics MiX™ 20z corded headset – Portable Media Accessories

The Plantronics MiX 20z corded headset is great for road trips or just hanging out with friends, enabling users to share calls and songs through an intuitive dual-connector: http://www.plantronics.com/MiX20ZHeadphones

About the Innovations Design and Engineering Award

The Innovations Design and Engineering Awards is an annual competition which honors consumer technology manufacturers’ and developers’ outstanding design and engineering in CE products. It is sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy. A full list of the 2008 Innovation Design and Engineering Award winners can be seen here: www.CESweb.org/Innovations.

About Plantronics
Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) is a worldwide leader in audio communications and entertainment products. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing and Clarity. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

.Audio, Altec Lansing, Calisto Pro, Clarity, MiX, Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, Sound Innovation, and Virtual Phone Booth are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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Vicki Marion Joins Plantronics to Lead the Audio Entertainment Group

admin — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 18:01:08 +0000

SANTA CRUZ, CA– October 8, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Vicki Marion has joined the company as president of the Audio Entertainment Group. In that role, she will be responsible for driving sales and profitable growth for the Altec Lansing brand of products. Ms. Marion brings to Plantronics extensive management experience across a range of industries including telecommunications and consumer electronics. She has held CEO positions twice previously, most notably at Jabra Corporation. Ms. Marion was president and CEO of Jabra Corporation from 1996-2001, where she led the company through a dramatic turnaround resulting in its period of strongest growth and greatest profitability. During her tenure, Ms. Marion oversaw development of products for the US cellular marketplace, obtained product placement in retail and carrier stores, and established and scaled offshore manufacturing from 15,000 units per month to more than 1 million per month. Under Ms. Marion’s leadership, the company’s annual revenues grew from $200,000 to $42 million in four years. “Vicki’s deep understanding of the consumer electronics industry and strong senior management experience fit well with the needs of our Audio Entertainment Group,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO, Plantronics, Inc. “Throughout her career, she has proven her talent at building strong foundations that enable rapid growth. That skill set will be invaluable as we grow our presence within the ever-evolving audio entertainment market.” Also in her career, Ms. Marion served as president and CEO of Viadux, Inc., a developer of broadband access equipment, where she repositioned the company to focus on new growth opportunities in emerging cable and wireless enterprise markets. While at Viadux, Ms. Marion also oversaw the company’s equipment redesign to meet new customer and application requirements, and developed strategic partnerships with Motorola and Scientific Atlanta. Ms. Marion also held senior management positions at IRT Corporation, a publicly held manufacturer of automated x-ray equipment, during the period of its financial turnaround. Most recently, Ms. Marion was an angel investor, director and advisor for Rivet International, a developer of carrying solutions and headsets for mobile phones, music players and other digital devices. Ms. Marion holds a BA in Economics from Stanford University. About Plantronics In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660. Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. ###

Larry Wuerz Joins Plantronics as Senior Vice President of Worldwide Operations

admin — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:35:19 +0000

New Executive Team Member Brings 28 Years of Experience from HP

SANTA CRUZ, CA – June 11, 2007 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) today announced that Larry Wuerz has joined the company as senior vice president of Worldwide Operations, responsible for leading Plantronics’ global operations and supply chain.

“Larry’s 28 years of experience at HP include high volume, low cost businesses which are important to Plantronics’ growth in retail and mobile sectors,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.”His proven excellence in leading teams to manage rapid change at HP will help Plantronics achieve the necessary cost structures and responsiveness for these emerging markets, and help us complement our already outstanding commercial infrastructure.”

At HP, Mr. Wuerz was most recently the worldwide vice president of Operations and Supply Chain for the Desktop Personal Computer organization, including consumer, commercial and workstation PCs. Prior to this role, Mr. Wuerz held the same title for HP’s Consumer Desktop Personal Computer organization, where he helped grow the business from inception to the global market share leader. Mr. Wuerz was instrumental in dramatically simplifying HP’s supply chain to improve margins, customer satisfaction, quality, and overall operational excellence. His extensive supply chain experience within the retail sector helped HP speed product cycles, reduce operational costs, and adapt to competitive pressures. In addition to Mr. Wuerz’s operations roles at HP, he also held senior positions in other functional areas, including Research and Development, and Human Resources.

Mr. Wuerz holds an MSEE from Stanford University and a BSEE from the University of Missouri – Rolla.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

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Plantronics Hits the Road on”Sound Innovation” Tour

admin — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 21:06:52 +0000

New Sound Coach Vehicle Provides Channel Partner Education and Training Across the U.S.

ORLANDO, FL and SANTA CRUZ, CA — March 5, 2007 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE:PLT) today put the pedal to the metal with the launch of the Sound Coach, a 44-foot long mobile marketing unit designed to educate and train Plantronics’ valued channel partners and end-users on the benefits of wireless headset solutions in the office, at home and on the go.

“The Sound Coach is a unique educational resource designed to provide a myriad of benefits to our channel partners all over the U.S.,” said Kelly Myers-Santos, director of Business Solutions Channel Marketing at Plantronics. “It provides a truly immersive experience, where partners receive highly interactive, hands-on training and demonstrations with Plantronics’ latest products. When partners leave, they’ll have a much better understanding of how our solutions fit within all aspects of their customers’ lives, and be better equipped to capitalize on the rapidly growing wireless communications market.”

As part of Plantronics’ Connect Partner Program, the Sound Coach will travel across the U.S. and make stops at major industry events, channel partner sales offices and stores of select retail and carrier partners. Visitors of the Sound Coach take part in unique “Sound Innovation Experience” tours, comprised of several interactive modules that illustrate how Plantronics headsets can enhance communication and entertainment experiences. The Plantronics “Sound Innovation Experience” tour includes:

self-guided iPod audio tours that highlight Plantronics’ legacy of sound innovation, headset technology fundamentals and emerging trends driving headset usage for both businesses and consumers,
product demonstrations that feature Plantronics’ newest corded and wireless solutions for use with office, home and mobile phones, and for popular applications such as, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Unified Communications and PC and console gaming,
an immersive presentation focused on current headset market opportunities with tips on identifying the ideal Plantronics headset, and
a brief Q&A session with a Plantronics specialist to receive a certificate of completion confirming their education on Plantronics’ award-winning offerings.

Launched in November 2005, Plantronics Connect is a comprehensive partner program designed to energize channel partners’ business with training, certifications, sales, marketing, and technical support tailored to their specific needs. Connect provides partners with the framework needed to expand product knowledge, enhance technical capabilities, energize relationships with existing customers, and grow their overall customer base. Today, more than 3,000 partners are members of the Connect program.

The Plantronics Sound Coach’s first stop is at the VoiceCon Spring tradeshow, March 5–8, 2007 in Orlando, Florida. The Sound Coach will then visit numerous cities in Florida before driving across the U.S. For more information about The Plantronics Sound Coach, please e-mail: soundcoach@plantronics.com.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

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Plantronics Wireless Headset System Awarded Nortel Compatible Product Designation

admin — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 21:58:55 +0000

Plantronics Headsets and Nortel Desktop Portfolio Provide Advanced Communication Capabilities for Improved Business Efficiency

Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 5, 2007 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that the Plantronics Voyager™ 510 Bluetooth® Headset and Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset System (both S and SL models) were awarded Nortel Compatible Product designation through interoperability testing on various models of Nortel desktop digital or IP phones. The products are the first wireless headsets in the industry to gain such status.

The Plantronics SupraPlus® P251N and P261N corded headsets were also awarded Nortel Compatible Product designation. In addition, Plantronics is now recognized as a Nortel Developer Partner.

Combining Plantronics wireless and wired headsets with Nortel’s desktop portfolio provides professionals with a complete solution for smarter, more efficient business communications. Nortel and Plantronics customers can now use a single wireless headset to seamlessly switch between Nortel IP phones and mobile phones with Bluetooth technology — empowering professionals to multi-task, collaborate more effectively, and extend the virtual workplace whether they are in the office, at home or on the go.

“Nortel’s open interface strategy enables innovative companies like Plantronics to create compelling applications that complement Nortel systems,” said Steve Horowitz, Leader, IP Clients, Nortel. “Today’s highly mobile workforce can now easily utilize the same wireless headset for use with their mobile phone and their Nortel IP business phone, creating economic and productivity efficiencies.”

“Both Nortel and Plantronics share great legacies of developing advanced communication solutions that improve business efficiency and exceed the expectation of our customers,” said Chuck Yort, vice president and general manger of Business Solutions at Plantronics. “Together, Nortel and Plantronics help businesses redefine how they communicate and better service their customers, partners and other constituents.”

Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth Headset System

The Plantronics Voyager 510¹ is the first headset with Bluetooth wireless technology to include both a noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in windy environments. The headset features multipoint technology for easily switching between multiple devices, and can automatically detect which device a person is using, allowing them to take calls from either device with the touch of a button. The Plantronics Voyager 510 can connect directly to Nortel IP Phones that feature an integrated Bluetooth audio gateway, or the Plantronics Voyager 510 Headset System includes a Bluetooth desktop adapter for other Nortel phone models. Specific details about the Nortel phone models that are compatible with the Plantronics wireless or wired headsets can be found at http://www.nortel.com/developer. The Plantronics Voyager 510 headset features include:

Noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in indoor and outdoor environments,
Lightweight, foldable design for all-day wearing comfort and easy storage,
One-touch call answer/end, last number redial and voice activated dialing with mobile phones,
Boom swivels for use on either ear for optional wearing preference,
Up to six hours talk time and up to 100 hours standby time, and
Freedom to roam up to 33 feet away from voice-enabled devices with Bluetooth wireless technology.

Nortel Desktop Portfolio

Nortel has one of the most complete desktop portfolios in the industry, with both digital and IP client solutions available to customers. The award winning Nortel IP Phone 1100 Series portfolio offers a sleek and cutting-edge ergonomic design with selected models that feature fully-integrated USB, Gigabit Ethernet and Bluetooth wireless technology, helping to provide a superior user experience for both today’s and tomorrow’s communications needs.

The Plantronics headsets with the Nortel Compatible Product designation are immediately orderable through the Nortel Select Product Program. Nortel selects innovative products from its Developer Partners that strategically complement Nortel communication platforms and create significant value for Nortel customers.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Plantronics Voyager, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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1 Testing of the Plantronics Voyager 510 headset by the National Analysis Center, a leading independent testing lab for the wireless phone industry, found that “the Plantronics Voyager 510 Bluetooth headset supports an innovative boom microphone design to greatly minimize the effects of wind noise. A high level of customer satisfaction should be realized due to the exceptional audio quality along with the ability to use the headset in outdoor windy conditions.” For its superior wind noise performance, the National Analysis Center awarded Plantronics Voyager 510 with its “Innovation” award.

Quiksilver and Plantronics Announce Partnership and New Limited Edition Sports Collection

admin — Mon, 22 Jan 2007 22:19:34 +0000

Alliance Fuses Industry Trailblazers to Develop Premium Bluetooth Enabled Snow Wear and Accessories

(Huntington Beach, CA and Santa Cruz, CA) — January 22, 2007 — Quiksilver (NYSE:ZQK) and Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) today kicked off a new strategic partnership to outfit outdoor sports enthusiasts with a unique array of Bluetooth^® enabled sports apparel and accessories. Quiksilver and Plantronics also previewed a new collection of premium snow apparel and accessories providing wireless, high-performance stereo music and mobile phone communications today at the SIA conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The alliance represents an exciting fusion of industry trailblazers – Quiksilver, which includes the Quiksilver and Roxy brands, is known as a leader in the outdoor sports lifestyle industry. Plantronics is recognized as a leader of Bluetooth voice and stereo technology.

“We’re thrilled to be working with Plantronics, a brand that has long been recognized as an industry leader in communications and entertainment,” said Quiksilver CEO, Bob McKnight. “Our company has always sought new and innovative ways to enhance the outdoor lifestyle, and integrating Plantronics technology into our products is a great way to do that.”

“This new premium line of Bluetooth equipped apparel and accessories creates a pure and seamless experience for sports enthusiasts – they can go from one environment to the next while staying continuously connected to their music and friends,” said Renee Niemi, general manager and vice president of Mobile and Entertainment for Plantronics. “This new line also reflects Quiksilver and Plantronics’ commitment to combining style, comfort and technology with great ease of use.”

The new collection integrates Quiksilver’s high-quality outdoor sports apparel with Bluetooth equipped mobile phones, iPods and MP3 players, allowing users to effortlessly access their favorite tunes and mobile calls without the worry of snagging a cord while blazing the slopes. Plantronics’ technology, embedded within the Quiksilver apparel and accessories, enables stereo sound to stream wirelessly from compatible products so that users can play and control music as well as answer incoming calls – all at the touch of a button.

Designed for both men and women under the Quiksilver and Roxy brands, the inaugural collection of apparel and accessories will include:

Quiksilver Double Daffy Snow Jacket featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth^®: The jacket is part of Quiksilver’s Limited Edition Outerwear Collection and is both iPod and cell phone ready. The Double Daffy will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $370.00 at Quiksilver Stores and better retailers nationwide.

Quiksilver Pulse Helmet featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth^®: The lightweight helmet, constructed from injected ABS, has adjustable side vents and comes in a black camo print. The Pulse will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $249.95 at Quiksilver Stores and better retailers nationwide.

Roxy Teen Angel Snow Jacket featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth^®: iPod and cell phone ready, this jacket will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $340.00 at Quiksilver Stores and Roxy retailers nationwide.

Roxy Shiver Helmet featuring Plantronics stereo sound and voice technology with Bluetooth^®: The Shiver Roxy Women’s Ski/Snow Safety Helmet will be available in the 2007/2008 Outerwear season and will retail for $249.95 at Quiksilver Stores and Roxy retailers nationwide.

Quiksilver will provide a sneak peek of the first co-developed products at the SIA conference in Las Vegas, Nevada (January 22-25, 2007), booths #C700 and #C800.

About Quiksilver and Roxy :
Quiksilver and Roxy are brands of Quiksilver, Inc., the world’s leading outdoor sports lifestyle company, which designs, produces and distributes a diversified mix of branded apparel, wintersports and golf equipment, footwear, accessories and related products. The Company’s apparel and footwear brands represent a casual lifestyle for young-minded people that connect with its boardriding culture and heritage, while its wintersports and golf brands symbolize a long standing commitment to technical expertise and competitive success on the mountains and on the links.

The reputation of Quiksilver Inc.’s brands is based on different outdoor sports. The Company’s Quiksilver, Roxy, DC Shoes and Hawk brands are synonymous with the heritage and culture of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding, and its beach and water oriented swimwear brands include Raisins, Radio Fiji and Leilani. The Rossignol, Dynastar, Lange, Look and Kerma brands are leaders in the alpine ski market, and the Company makes snowboarding equipment under its Rossignol, Dynastar, DC Shoes, Roxy, Lib Technologies, Gnu and Bent Metal labels. The Company’s golf business includes Cleveland Golf, as well as Never Compromise putters and Fidra apparel. Gotcha is the Company’s surf-based European brand addressing street fashion. The Company’s products are sold in over 90 countries in a wide range of distribution, including surf shops, ski shops, skateboard shops, snowboard shops, proprietary Boardriders Club shops, other specialty stores and select department stores. Quiksilver’s corporate and Americas’ headquarters are in Huntington Beach, California, while its European headquarters are in St. Jean de Luz and St. Jean de Moirans, France, and its Asia/Pacific headquarters are in Torquay, Australia.

* * * * *

NOTE: For further information about Quiksilver, Inc., you are invited to take a look at our world at www.quiksilver.com,

www.roxy.com, www.dcshoecousa.com, www.quiksilveredition.com, www.hawkclothing.com,

www.rossignol.com, www.dynastar.com,

www.clevelandgolf.com, and www.fidragolf.com.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, emergency dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Plantronics, Inc. is under license.

# # #

Plantronics Honored with Five CES Innovation Awards

admin — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 22:37:44 +0000

Award-Winning Mobile, Office and Gaming Headsets Set Stage for Plantronics’ Product Showcase at CES 2007

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. –– December 12, 2006 –– Extending its leadership position in delivering award-winning Bluetooth, wireless and corded headset innovation, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) has been honored with five International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Showcase Awards.

All of Plantronics’ Innovations Awards-winning products will be on display during the 2007 International CES, January 8-11, in the PlantronicsBooth #30333 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Plantronics’ recognized products include a chic, inventive Bluetooth headset; a pioneering plug-and-play Bluetooth VoIP system; two corded multimedia headsets; and a wireless office headset system.

“This recognition shows the world that our headsets play an invaluable role in enhancing personal mobility and communication,” said Renee Niemi, vice president and general manager of Mobile and Entertainment for Plantronics. “These honored products represent our commitment to combining the highest quality sound with unmatched simplicity and remarkable design – and clearly differentiate us from the competition.”

Plantronics’ award-winning products for 2007 include:

Plantronics Discovery™ 655: Honored in the Wireless Peripherals category, the Plantronics Discovery 655 expands on the innovative design of previous Discovery headsets, featuring a modern sculpted look to complement the contours of the face, a snug ergonomic fit and cutting-edge technology. With Digital Signal Processing (DSP) the Plantronics Discovery 655 reduces noise levels to provide enhanced sound for clear conversations. It weighs only 9 grams and comes with an innovative charging system that provides up to 10 hours of talk time and includes a unique vibrate ring indicator.

Plantronics .Audio™ 910: Honored in the Computer Accessories category, the Plantronics .Audio 910 Bluetooth headset system is the first of its kind to offer true plug-and-play connectivity for Internet and mobile phone calls. The .Audio 910 includes a Bluetooth USB adapter that eliminates cumbersome software setup processes and enables users to instantly place hands-free softphone calls. Additionally, the .Audio 910 features Plantronics’ unique multipoint technology that allows users to pair with multiple Bluetooth enabled devices and seamlessly switch between softphone and mobile conversations with the touch of a button.

Plantronics .Audio™ 550 DSP: Honored in the Electronic Gaming category, the Plantronics .Audio™ 550 DSP features a comfortable, lightweight design and 40mm speakers for dynamic base response. A noise-canceling microphone cuts out background distractions and enhances speech recognition accuracy for chatting and recordings. The .Audio 550 DSP includes a digital signal processing chip for optimizing audio levels, and PerSono® Audio Control Center Software, which provides music lovers with full control over microphone and audio characteristics like volume, bass and treble for balancing between hip hop, rock and classical.

Plantronics GameCom™ X30: Honored in the Electronic Gaming category, Plantronics’ GameCom X30 reflects the colors of Microsoft’s Xbox 360 system and incorporates a single-ear design to deliver total precision sound. The GameCom X30 headset is lightweight and discreet, and boasts a flexible, ear-melding design to provide all-day gaming comfort. The GameCom X30 also features a noise-canceling mic to reduce background noise as well as inline volume and mute controls for easy audio control.

Plantronics CS70 Wireless Office System: Honored in the Mobile/Home Office category, the wireless Plantronics CS70 combines lightweight, all-day comfort and discreet, executive style – without compromising sound quality. The headset is built on digitally encrypted, voice-dedicated DECT™ 6.0 technology to provide exceptional audio quality and lower interference with other wireless devices, and offers up to 300 feet of range for multi-tasking around the office.

To learn more about Plantronics headsets, please visit: www.plantronics.com.

About the International CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards recognize achievements in product design and engineering. It is sponsored by CEA, the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, emergency dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Clearline, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, SupraPlus, Vista, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

All product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Plantronics Manufacturing Complex in Suzhou Becomes First-Ever to Earn Prestigious Environmental Certification in China

admin — Mon, 24 Apr 2006 23:47:05 +0000

Achievement Underscores Plantronics’ Long-Term Commitment in China

Suzhou, China – April 25, 2006 – At a grand opening ceremony today, Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) announced that its new manufacturing and design center in Suzhou, China, has earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold certification for environmental sustainability. Plantronics Suzhou is now the only manufacturing facility in all of China to achieve LEED certification.

The United States Green Building Council (USGBC), which has developed the world’s only common standard of measurement for a “green” building and is recognized as the leading accrediting body for the industry, certified the Plantronics Suzhou manufacturing facility at gold status under its rigorous LEED rating system. The USGBC recognized Plantronics Suzhou’s best practices for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

“It is of great importance to us that Plantronics Suzhou feel like a world-class Chinese operation and not an American company operating in China,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “One of the best ways we know how to accomplish that is to combine respect for the local community and its culture with our vigorous commitment to environmentally sound practices.”

Plantronics partnered with Bechtel on the construction of the new Suzhou facility. Together, the companies developed innovative building and landscape designs aimed towards energy conservation, environmental sustainability and employee wellness. Plantronics Suzhou environmental benefits include:

Increased Energy Efficiency: All buildings feature insulated roof systems, natural light, energy-rated roof coating, and insulated block walls. The main office building is designed with a slight angle to take advantage of sunlight, without causing over-consumption of energy for heating during the winter and cooling during the summer.
Reduced Water Consumption: Plantronics Suzhou uses rain water collection ponds, storm water irrigation, recycled condensation water from air conditioning units, and an innovative reverse-osmosis system to make city water drinkable.
Reduced Air Pollution: The Suzhou manufacturing complex promotes alternative transportation by providing covered ports with battery chargers for electric scooters, coordinated bus transportation, and bike air pumps and storage. Plantronics estimates that more than 90 percent of employees will use alternative transportation.
Indoor Air Quality: Non-toxic interior finishes, a fume extraction system, and natural lighting are used throughout the Suzhou facility to ensure a quality work environment.

“The opening of the first LEED-certified manufacturing facility in China marks a significant milestone in the global shift to green buildings,” said S. Richard Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chairman of the U.S. Green Building Council. “Committing to building green, as Plantronics has done, as China has done, is the hallmark of a resource-saving, environment-friendly society, and we applaud their vision and leadership in this important area.”

Supply Chain Agility and Cost Efficiencies

The Suzhou facility enables Plantronics to develop and produce product in the same facility, expedite part delivery from neighboring regions and improve quality control. Suzhou also allows Plantronics to optimize product builds for the local supply chain to speed time to market, while reducing development and product costs. In conjunction with Plantronics’ world-class manufacturing facility in Mexico (Plamex), the Suzhou facility will improve global supply chain efficiencies and maximize cost efficiencies through local materials procurement.

In addition to manufacturing, the Plantronics Suzhou facility houses other core business functions, including product development and industrial design. By expanding Suzhou’s capabilities beyond manufacturing, Plantronics will react faster to global customer needs and market fluctuations. Suzhou plant production will initially focus on Plantronics’ growing mobile Bluetooth and wireless office product portfolios.

Plantronics’ presence in Asia Pacific continues to grow. The company now has offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Manila, Singapore, Taiwan and Melbourne.

A Legacy of Manufacturing Excellence

Plantronics has a long history of manufacturing excellence. Plantronics opened Plamex in Tijuana, Mexico, 34 years ago and since then the facility has been recognized worldwide for its commitment to quality and progressive employee programs. Plamex has won nine international manufacturing awards over the past two years, and last month was recognized twice by Mexico president Vicente Fox Quesada for its technology and quality leadership. Plamex is also the only manufacturing facility in the world to win both the Ibero American Quality Award and Asia-Pacific Quality Award for large manufacturing organizations.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

###

John Hart Joins Plantronics Board of Directors

chithra — Fri, 10 Mar 2006 04:59:47 +0000

Wireless Pioneer and Former Chief Technology Officer of 3Com to Strengthen Plantronics’ Board Technical Expertise

SANTA CRUZ, CA – March 9, 2006 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of John Hart, wireless technology pioneer and former senior vice president and Chief Technology Officer of 3Com.

“John’s expertise in networking and advanced wireless technologies will be extremely useful as Plantronics expands its offerings to help people realize the benefits of mobile, hands-free communications,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics.

At 3Com, Hart was responsible for the overall strategic direction of the company during the 10 year period (September 1990-September 2000) in which it grew annual revenue from $400 million to almost $6 billion. Hart architected and led 3Com’s “Fast, Cheap and Simple” (FCS) first/last mile networking strategy at a time when networking was anything but fast, cheap or simple. Hart was also responsible for 3Com’s Advanced Development Lab which pioneered Ethernet adapter and switch solutions, 802.11 solutions, and cable model/low cost routers. Prior to 3Com, Hart was vice president of engineering at Vitalink Communications Corporation where he led the group that invented, patented and shipped the industry’s first Ethernet switching products. Mr. Hart holds a BS in Mathematics from the University of Georgia.

“Plantronics’ communication and entertainment products are at the epicenter of wireless technologies for consumers and business users,” said Hart. “I’m honored to join the Plantronics Board of Directors, and look forward to helping the company further its commitment to sound innovation through new wireless products that enable true mobile freedom.”

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation, and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc.

###

President Vicente Fox Quesada Presents Mexico National Technology Award to Plantronics

chithra — Fri, 10 Feb 2006 05:03:02 +0000

Plantronics Mexico Becomes First Organization Ever to Win Prestigious Mexico National Technology and Quality Awards

Santa Cruz, Calif. – February 9, 2006 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant won Mexico’s National Technology award for Big Industrial Organizations. After receiving Mexico’s National Quality award in 2004, PLAMEX is now the only organization ever to win both esteemed awards.

Presented to Plantronics yesterday by Mexico President Vicente Fox Quesada, Mexico’s National Technology award honors companies that exemplify outstanding technology development and management, and continually develop new process innovations.

“When PLAMEX opened in 1972, Plantronics understood the importance of embracing the Mexican culture, giving back to local communities and, creating a work environment that fosters the highest levels of employee involvement, innovation and creativity,” said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. “PLAMEX is truly honored to be the first organization to win both of these prestigious awards and we look forward to achieving new levels of success in the future.”

Following an extensive evaluation and site visit, PLAMEX was awarded Mexico’s National Technology award after receiving high scores in each of the categories in which companies are judged: strategic knowledge and market and customer integration; product, process and service competitiveness; technology and strategic planning; legacy and technology capacity; and value created through technology management.

PLAMEX has now received seven prestigious awards for manufacturing and quality excellence in the last 12 months. Other awards received include the International Asia Pacific Quality Award, the 2005 Ibero American Quality Award and International Gold Crown.

PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality

Plantronics Mexico associates enjoy an environment that promotes process innovation and are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify. Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence. PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX’s 3,700 associates contribute to Plantronics’ worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.

The facility is ISO 9002-2000 certified and has received numerous awards and commendations for its excellence in environmental matters, community work, customer satisfaction and work safety. Previous awards include the Federal Ministry of Labor’s Safe Industry Certificate, Baja California Quality Award 2001 (”Best Maquiladora Company”) and the PROFEPA/CNIME Environmental Award (EPA/National Maquiladora Council).

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, Plantronics has become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, Plantronics, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Plantronics Discovery 640 wins International Industry Forum Design Award

admin — Tue, 31 Jan 2006 22:43:53 +0000

Recognition is a Testament to Plantronics Investment in Style and Design

Santa Cruz, Calif. – January 31, 2006 –Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that the Plantronics Discovery™ 640 Bluetooth® headset won the prestigious Industry Forum (iF) Product Design Award in the Consumer Electronics/Telecommunication category.

iF jury members judged nearly 2,000 products from 37 countries to select the winners. With ‘Back to Design’ the theme for the 2006 iF Design Award, Plantronics Discovery 640 won by combining elegant design with sound quality to provide style-conscious users with the ultimate headset for their needs.

“The iF design competition is one of the most prestigious and well-regarded in the world,” said Darrin Caddes, vice president of Corporate Design at Plantronics. “This recognition reinforces our commitment to innovation and confirms we’re on the right path with our design initiative.”

The Plantronics Discovery 640 headset is extremely discreet and lightweight — about the weight of two nickels — and designed with high-end materials and finishes. The Discovery 640 employs an innovative AAA battery charging system that continuously recharges the headset while not in use, providing 15 hours of talk time. In addition to the iF Design award, the Discovery 640 is highlighted in the BusinessWeek “Best Products of 2005” and GQ “Best Stuff of the Year” lists, and received editors’ choice awards from Cnet and Wired magazine.

Plantronics’ new strategic design initiative began in 2004 with the hiring of Caddes. Previously having worked for companies including BMW/Designworks USA, Fiat Automotive and Indian Motorcycle, Caddes is reinforcing Plantronics’ commitment to sound innovation through headset designs that blend fashion, comfort and cutting-edge technology. Plantronics’ new industrial design center in Santa Cruz, Calif., will be completed in 2006.

About the iF Design Awards
Since the introduction of the iF product design award in 1953, iF design awards have developed into prestigious trademarks for outstanding achievements in the field of design. Enterprises and design studios use the award to make their customers and additional target groups aware of the potentially decisive difference in product and service quality expressed by this distinction.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, the logo design, Plantronics Discovery, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Smith Optics and Plantronics Team on Action Sports Gear

chithra — Sat, 21 Jan 2006 05:08:09 +0000

New Products to Pioneer Integration of Style, Comfort and Sound Innovation

Santa Cruz, Calif. and Ketchum, Idaho — January 20, 2006 — Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) and Smith Optics today announced that they will collaborate to develop new Smith-branded action sports gear that incorporate wireless audio communication and entertainment technology. The new venture combines over 80 years of product excellence and leadership in the action sports, mobile and communications markets.

“We have created an ideal collaboration between Smith and Plantronics”, said Blair Clark, Smith Optics senior vice president of Marketing and Sales. “The product development teams dedicated to this effort have tremendous experience and ideas in marrying fashion and technology. Our plan is to combine the same performance, style and innovation for this program that we provide in the goggle and sunglass businesses, while revolutionizing the integration of fashion and technology,” Clark said.

“Plantronics is an established leader in Bluetooth® communication devices and has proven that audio technology can easily fit into active lifestyles, and can do so with a sense of fashion,” said Renee Niemi, vice president of Mobile and Entertainment at Plantronics. “Collaborating with Smith will accelerate this evolution and deliver action sports gear that combine style, comfort and great wireless sound.”

Smith and Plantronics will jointly develop helmets, goggles, eyewear and other products that incorporate wireless technology. The helmets will include audio systems compatible with MP3 players, such as Apple iPods, and MP3-enabled cell phones, advanced ventilation systems, a crash replacement program, and an unprecedented lifetime warranty.

“We are the market leader in goggles in the snow sports business and we have been innovating the product category for over 40 years,” said Eric Carlson, director of Product and Merchandising. “The resources, focus, and market knowledge that Plantronics has will allow us to evolve that heritage into the expanding wearable technology market. What we’re seeing now is that wearable technology is advanced enough to provide unrestricted design opportunities while being cost-effective. We can provide hands-free connection for all of our athletes and weekend warriors alike,” Carlson continued.

About Smith Optics
Based in Sun Valley, Idaho, with a Southern California office located in San Clemente, Smith Optics, Inc. was founded in 1965 with the creation of the first goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. Today, Smith is as well known for its diverse line of fashion and performance sunglasses as it is for its goggles. From Smith’s distortion-free Tapered Lens Technology to the versatility of the Slider Series, with its patented, interchangeable lens system, the devotion to excellence, innovation and style is what has made Smith goggles and sunglasses the choice of action-sport athletes worldwide. Smith products are sold in more than 50 countries through sporting goods and specialty stores. For more information visit www.smithoptics.com.

Altec Lansing, Clarity, GameCom, Plantronics, the logo design, Sound Innovation and Volume Logic are trademarks or registered trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. The Bluetooth name and the Bluetooth trademarks are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and are used by Plantronics, Inc. under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Plantronics Manufacturing Facility Achieves Unprecedented Worldwide Recognition

chithra — Tue, 25 Oct 2005 05:18:59 +0000

PLAMEX Becomes the Only Facility Ever to Win Both the Ibero American and Asia Pacific Quality Awards

Santa Cruz, Calif. – October 24, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its manufacturing facility in Mexico, PLAMEX, has won the 2005 Ibero American Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations. After receiving top honors at the Asia-Pacific Quality Award last month, PLAMEX is now the only manufacturing facility in the world to win both of the prestigious international awards for Big Organizations. PLAMEX also won Mexico’s National Quality Award in December 2004.

“Quality has been a driving force within Plantronics’ culture since the company was founded more than 40 years ago,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “Regardless of the application, whether it be products, customer service or employee development, Plantronics will continue to lead total quality management innovation because it translates into delighted customers, partners and employees and business success.”

Following an extensive evaluation process and site visit by several international experts, PLAMEX was awarded the Ibero American Quality Award for receiving high marks in leadership, strategic planning, personnel development, resource management (financials, information and knowledge, technology, and procurement), customer and market focus, environmental impact, and business results. PLAMEX was also recognized for creating value for its customers, personnel and the community.

PLAMEX was considered among various types of manufacturing companies in countries around the world, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, México, Nicaragua, Panamá, Paraguay, Perú, Portugal, Spain, Uruguay and Venezuela. Together with the Asia-Pacific Quality Award, PLAMEX was evaluated with companies from more than 40 countries.

“PLAMEX is very proud to receive the honor of the Ibero American Quality Award on behalf of its associates, who have joined together to create and nurture a culture of excellence and empowerment that sets us apart,” said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. “This award truly reinforces the outstanding accomplishments and commitment to total quality management of our 3,600 team members.”

The Ibero American Quality Award is given by FUNDIBEQ (Ibero American Foundation for Quality Management), a non-profit organization whose mission is “to promote the overall management of quality as a safe path towards sustainable progress and social welfare and as an instrument which generates the necessary trust that allows the mutual acknowledgement and free movement of products and services.”

PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality
Plantronics’ associates in Mexico are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify. Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence. PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX’s 3,600 associates contribute to Plantronics’ worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.

Plantronics Reminds Connecticut Drivers to Keep Both Hands on the Wheel

chithra — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 05:25:24 +0000

Headsets Help Connecticut Residents Comply with New State Law

Connecticut - September 26, 2005 - On October 1, Connecticut police will begin ticketing motorists who use hand-held mobile phones without headsets while driving. For many, cell phone conversations while driving have become very common, but safety should always remain top priority. Plantronics (NYSE:PLT), maker of mobile headset devices, wants to help ensure that motorists who drive in Connecticut and the tri-state area are correctly and safely using headsets as the new law takes effect.

With hands-free legislation passed in New York in 2001 and New Jersey in 2004, the entire tri-state area is now a hands-free zone. Connecticut will have one of the most severe penalties of the three states, with any person who violates the law subject to a $100 fine.

Plantronics offers these tips intended to keep Connecticut drivers safer while on the road:

Choose a headset that is comfortable for you. Before you use it in the car, familiarize yourself with using your mobile phone and headset together.
Utilize your phone’s voice dialing or one-touch dialing features or dial the number in advance. If possible, place the call while stopped in traffic.
Position your headset before starting the car and keep your cell phone stored in an easily accessible location.

“There is a wide variety of headsets consumers can select from in order to comply with the new law,” said Libby Walikis, director of Mobile Products, Plantronics, Inc. “Whether the headset is corded or wireless, fits over-the-ear or under-the-ear, people can select a model that suits their specific wearing preference and lifestyle.”

Bluetooth-enabled headsets, such as the award-winning Plantronics Explorer™ 320, are appropriate for commuters who want to have clear conversations without wires. The new Plantronics MX505 headset with WindSmart™ technology provides commuters with reduced wind noise while talking on the phone. The bendable boom provides optimal fit and superior call clarity in nearly every environment.

For more information about hands-free legislation and to find the right headset for their needs, consumers may visit www.plantronics.com/findit. Connecticut residents can also visit their local electronics retailer and cell phone carrier to purchase a Plantronics headset.

About Plantronics

In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of Sound Innovation™ is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. The Plantronics family of brands includes Plantronics, Altec Lansing, Clarity, and Volume Logic. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

# # #

Plantronics Manufacturing Facility Wins International Asia Pacific Quality Award

chithra — Thu, 08 Sep 2005 05:27:36 +0000

PLAMEX Honored with Second Regional Quality Award During Past Ten Months

Santa Cruz, Calif. – September 7, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced that its Plantronics Mexico (PLAMEX) manufacturing plant has won the International Asia Pacific Quality Award for Big Manufacturing Organizations. The award recognizes PLAMEX’s long-standing commitment to total quality management (TQM) through planning and programs that encourage customer satisfaction, employee empowerment, and social and environmental responsibility.

Following an extensive evaluation, PLAMEX was awarded the Asia Pacific Quality Award after receiving high scores in each of the categories in which companies are judged: leadership, strategic planning, customer and market focus, measurement and analysis, knowledge management, human resource focus, process management, and business results. Only companies that have won Quality Awards at a national level are eligible to apply for the International Asia Pacific Awards. In 2004, PLAMEX won Mexico’s National Quality Award for its achievements in quality and business results.

“Since PLAMEX opened in 1972, we’ve continually sought to create a work environment that fosters the highest levels of quality, employee involvement and social responsibility,” said Alejandro Bustamante, president of PLAMEX. “To be recognized with this award in such a highly competitive field truly reinforces the outstanding accomplishments and commitment of all 3,600 associates at PLAMEX.”

The International Asia Pacific Quality Award is given by the Asia Pacific Quality Organization (APQO), a non-profit organization dedicated to achieving continuous quality improvement of goods and services, and quality of life for people, around the world. The governing body of APQO includes representatives from Australia, China, India, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Sri Lanka, United States, Singapore, Canada, Egypt, Italy, Japan, Peru, South Africa, Switzerland, Chile, Argentina, England, Taiwan and Vietnam.

PLAMEX — A Legacy of Quality
Plantronics Mexico associates are trained to prevent problems by proposing solutions to any potential risks they identify. Everyone contributes to quality processes to increase customer satisfaction, minimize rework, reduce cost, maintain production output and uphold product excellence. PLAMEX enjoys one of the industry’s lowest turnover rates because of its extensive employee benefits, including career development, family programs, child care, educational programs, medical care and housing assistance. PLAMEX’s 3,600 associates contribute to Plantronics’ worldwide success by manufacturing more than 8,000 different models of headset products.

Plantronics Completes Acquisition of Altec Lansing

chithra — Sat, 20 Aug 2005 05:29:41 +0000

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., August 18, 2005– Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has completed the acquisition of Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.

On July 11, 2005, Plantronics announced a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems. Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones, allowing Plantronics to provide a more complete product portfolio to its combined retail and OEM channels worldwide. The acquisition will enable Plantronics to combine its expertise in voice communication and Altec Lansing’s in music entertainment to meet the full audio needs of the consumer, in their personal and professional lives.

As a material inducement for certain employees of Altec Lansing to accept employment with Plantronics, the Board of Directors approved inducement grants of stock options in the aggregate amount of up to 140,000 shares and restricted stock in the aggregate amount of 5,000 shares that are outside of those approved under the Plantronics 2003 Stock Plan. These options and restricted stock awards will be made to approximately 23 Altec Lansing employees promptly after the closing.

About Plantronics

Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong’s historic “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with more than 4,500 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

About Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.

Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc. has a rich legacy of blending art and science to stir the soul with high quality consumer and professional speaker systems. The market leader in portable and powered audio systems, Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones. Headquartered in Milford, PA, USA, Altec Lansing has offices in Austin, TX; Oklahoma City, OK; Luxembourg, and Hong Kong. The company employs approximately 1,350 people worldwide.

Plantronics Launches New Brand Identity, Delivers “Sound Innovation” From the Moon to the Masses

chithra — Thu, 21 Jul 2005 05:41:33 +0000

Plantronics Introduces New Logo, Ad Campaign and Space Trip Promotion

New York, NY and Santa Cruz, Calif. - July 20, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) unveiled today, on the 36-year anniversary of the moon landing, the company’s new brand identity and national advertising campaign. Plantronics’ new corporate logo and tagline, sound innovation, highlight its role as the headset used by Neil Armstrong in the historic, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” transmission from the moon in 1969, and reinforces its leadership position in developing headsets for home, mobile, and office use.

“Thirty-six years ago our company focused on creating the most reliable, highest quality headsets for NASA and other mission critical organizations to use,” said Mark Breier, chief marketing officer, Plantronics. “Today, we retain that same focus on reliability and quality, but apply it to a much broader audience seeking greater productivity, ease of use and a sense of style as well. Our line of wireless headsets delivers on all three.”

We’ve Been to Space, Now You Can Too!
Plantronics also launched today the “Plantronics to Space and Beyond” promotion that offers consumers a chance to win a seat on board one of the first commercial flights to space. In addition, hundreds of prizes, including a zero-gravity flight, will be given out through weekly, monthly and annual drawings. To learn more and enter the “Plantronics to Space and Beyond” promotion, people can visit: www.plantronics.com or text “headset” to SPACE (77223) to enter. Please see the promotion rules for full details.

Plantronics’ new advertising campaign highlights the company’s role during NASA’s moon landing program and its leadership in other mission-critical applications, such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. The campaign also demonstrates Plantronics’ commitment to sound innovation for every product it builds for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets.

The advertising campaign, developed by McCann Erickson Advertising, will have wide exposure, including spots on national television and in print and Internet outlets. TV ads will first appear in late summer on major cable networks. Print ads will appear in magazines such as Business2.0 and Fast Company.

Media: for more information about all of today’s news announcements, please visit www.plantronics.com/NYliftoff.

About Plantronics
In 1969, a Plantronics headset carried the historic first words from the moon: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then, we’ve become the headset of choice for mission-critical applications such as air traffic control, 911 dispatch, and the New York Stock Exchange. Today, this history of sound innovation is the basis for every product we build for the office, contact center, personal mobile, entertainment and residential markets. For more information, go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

Plantronics to Acquire Altec Lansing

chithra — Wed, 20 Jul 2005 05:47:31 +0000

Acquisition of Leading Audio Entertainment Brand Strengthens Plantronics’ Ability to Provide Complete Audio Solutions for Both Consumers and Retailers

Santa Cruz, Calif. - July 11, 2005 – Plantronics, Inc. (NYSE: PLT) today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc., a market leader in portable and powered audio systems. The agreement will unite two leading audio brands with rich heritages and complementary strengths.

Under the terms of the agreement, Plantronics will acquire all of the capital stock of Altec Lansing for a cash purchase price in total of approximately $166 million. Following the close of the transaction, the resulting wholly-owned subsidiary of Plantronics will be called Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.

“The combination of our expertise in voice communication and Altec Lansing’s in music entertainment enables us to meet the full audio needs of the consumer, in their personal and professional lives,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO, Plantronics, Inc. “We’ve been exploring audio entertainment possibilities for some time. The acquisition of Altec Lansing, with its product portfolio strength and brand reputation, dramatically accelerates those plans at a time when the technology and momentum in convergence is there for us to leverage.”

Altec Lansing will remain in Milford, Pennsylvania, functioning as a division of Plantronics. Gary Savadove, former GE Consumer Electronics executive and CEO of Labtec, joined Plantronics six months ago and is president and CEO of the Plantronics Audio Entertainment Business Group which will now incorporate Altec Lansing. Bob Garthwaite, who has served as senior vice president of marketing and sales for Altec Lansing, will become president and CEO of Altec Lansing after closing of the agreement.

Altec Lansing, with more than $100 million in revenue in calendar 2004, brings to Plantronics a comprehensive range of products and an established market presence in portable and powered audio. Its award-winning inMotion portable speaker systems have become one of the biggest successes of the iPod economy. Just last month, CNET said the following about the new inMotion iM7 iPod speaker system: “Altec Lansing has emerged as a heavyweight in [the iPod speaker] department, anchored by its inMotion series of portable speakers, and its latest innovation, the inMotion iM7, takes the iPod to new heights. It should set the bar for future truly portable speakers. Sound quality is powerful and rich, the device is portable and flexible, and it just looks good.”

In addition, Altec Lansing offers a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headphones and headsets, allowing Plantronics to provide a more complete product portfolio to its combined retail and OEM channels worldwide.

“From the beginning, we recognized that we complemented Plantronics extremely well, from both corporate and product perspectives,” said Bob Garthwaite, senior vice president of marketing and sales, Altec Lansing. “Both companies go back forty years or more in their focus on audio quality. Between us, we understand the technical needs of the professional market and the lifestyle demands of the consumer market. And when you look at the growth potential for devices like music-enabled handsets and cellular music decks, the synergies and opportunities become crystal clear.”

“Ultimately it was evident that we shared a common vision with Altec Lansing,” Mr. Kannappan concluded. “Both companies were moving toward the immense opportunity for long-cycle growth and innovation created by the unison of digital voice and music technology. Together we’re much stronger and better positioned to achieve that vision.”

We expect that, excluding non-cash acquisition-related and amortization charges, the acquisition will be accretive to Plantronics earnings in FY06. Including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, interest expense and lost interest income, we do not currently expect the transaction to be significantly dilutive or accretive to EPS for FY06 as a whole. Finally, including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, interest expense if any and lost interest income, we expect the acquisition to be accretive to EPS in FY07.

Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin served as exclusive financial advisor to Altec Lansing.

Plantronics stockholders are invited to participate in a conference call that will begin at 2pm PDT. To listen please dial in five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled starting time and refer to the “Plantronics Conference Call.” Participants from North America should call (888) 301-8736 and other participants should call (706) 634-7260.

A replay of the call with the conference ID #7739057 will be available for 1 week at (800) 642-1687 for callers from North America and at (706) 645-9291 for all other callers. The conference call will also be simultaneously web cast at www.plantronics.com under Investor Relations; the web cast of the conference call will be available at the Plantronics website along with the slide presentation for the conference.

About Plantronics
Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong’s historic “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with more than 4,500 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.

About Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc.
Altec Lansing Technologies, Inc. has a rich legacy of blending art and science to stir the soul with high quality consumer and professional speaker systems. A market leader in portable and powered audio systems, Altec Lansing designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of computer and home entertainment sound systems and a line of headsets and headphones. Headquartered in Milford, PA, USA and privately held, Altec Lansing has offices in Oklahoma City, OK; Luxembourg, and Hong Kong. The company employs approximately 1,350 people worldwide.

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Specific forward-looking statements relate to the intended acquisition and our expectation that, excluding non-cash acquisition-related and amortization charges, the acquisition will be accretive to Plantronics’ earnings beginning in Fiscal 2006 and that it will be accretive to EPS in FY07 including non-cash acquisition related and amortization charges, lost interest income and any interest expense. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions. In particular, while the companies have executed a definitive agreement, there is no assurance they will complete the transaction. If the companies do not receive the necessary government or stockholder approvals or fail to satisfy conditions for closing, the transaction will terminate. Forward-looking statements relating to expectations about future events or results are based upon information available to Plantronics as of today’s date. Plantronics does not assume any obligation to update any of these statements, and these statements are not guarantees of Plantronics. In addition to the foregoing, Plantronics’ financial results could differ materially from current expectations. The factors that may affect Plantronics’ ability to achieve its planned business objectives include, but are not limited to, the following: 1) the company’s revenues and earnings are subject to a number of factors that make estimation of operating results extremely uncertain; 2) competition for the company’s products is intense; 3) the uncertainties of whether new products, product extensions or product strategies will be successful; 4) risks associated with the acquisition, including (a) the failure to achieve expected synergies and efficiencies of operations, (b) the ability to manage business integration, and (c) operations and environmental regulations; 5) loss of key personnel; 6) litigation, including litigation over intellectual property rights; and 7) general technological and economic factors. For more information concerning these and other possible risks, please refer to the Company’s Form 10-K filed on May 31, 2005, filings on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as recent press releases. These filings can be accessed over the Internet at http://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html.

Marshall Mohr Joins Plantronics Board of Directors

chithra — Sat, 09 Jul 2005 05:58:07 +0000

CFO of Adaptec and Former Managing Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers to Strengthen Plantronics’ Board Expertise

Santa Cruz, CA - June 7, 2005 – Plantronics (NYSE:PLT) is enhancing its Board of Directors with the addition of Marshall Mohr, vice president and Chief Financial Officer of Adaptec, Inc., a leading provider of storage solutions that reliably move, manage and protect critical data and digital content.

“Marshall’s extensive background in accounting and technology business acumen will be great assets to the Plantronics team,” said Ken Kannappan, president and CEO of Plantronics. “Plantronics has long held itself to the highest financial management standards, reflecting the integrity of our management team, corporate culture and the way we conduct business. Marshall’s guidance in this area will prove invaluable as we grow our global operations.”

Mohr has served as vice president and CFO for Adaptec since July 2003. Prior to joining Adaptec, Mohr was managing partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers’ West Region Technology Industry Group and was responsible for the firm’s more than 400-person Silicon Valley accounting and audit advisory practice. He also held a variety of positions at PricewaterhouseCoopers during his 22 years of service and served as the engagement partner on numerous technology companies in the networking and communications sectors. Mohr is a CPA and holds a Bachelors of Business Administration degree from Western Michigan University. Mohr also serves as a Director on the Board of Atheros Communications, Inc.

“I’m very pleased to join the Plantronics Board of Directors,” said Mohr, vice president and CFO of Adaptec. “Plantronics has great growth potential as wireless communication becomes ubiquitous with consumers and in the office. The company’s strong financial practices have built considerable confidence with shareholders, investors and customers, and provide a very solid framework for the company moving forward.”

Mohr replaces David Wegmann who retired after seventeen years of service on the Plantronics Board of Directors. Mohr will serve as chair of the audit committee.

About Plantronics
Plantronics introduced the first lightweight headset in 1962 and is recognized as the world leader in communications headsets. A Plantronics headset was used for Neil Armstrong’s historic “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind” transmission from the moon in 1969. A publicly held company headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, with approximately 3,600 employees, Plantronics maintains offices in 20 countries. For more information go to www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.