Introducing the OLFA® Utility Knife Challenge

ROSEMONT, Ill., Nov. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing its mission to gain traction of its high-quality, durable, professional-grade utility knives and blades in the U.S. hardware marketplace, OLFA®, a leading maker of premium-quality cutting tools, is launching its largest professional contractor program – the OLFA challenge.  An exclusive promotional program running in 1,500 Lowe's stores nationwide, the OLFA Challenge extends through April 2011. The program encourages contractors to view the cutting performance of the innovative OLFA utility knives which showcase the following key benefits: productivity, quality, durability, ease of use and security. Tool enthusiasts can compare their current tools with the new OLFA products, and have the opportunity to trade-up their existing utility knives for the latest OLFA cutters and snap-off blades. Additionally, during this limited trial period, OLFA is offering at Lowe's stores special introductory pricing so contractors can easily test the latest line at a special price. Products include the OLFA professional utility knives that are engineered with the OLFA quick-and-easy snap-off blade replacement system.

"This program marks a big step in our commitment to reach U.S. contractors and we are thrilled about the opportunity to get our products into their hands.  We're certain that if they try our cutting tools, they'll love the productivity, quality and durability they offer," said James Wallace, vice president for OLFA - North America.

Contractors can learn more about the products and this program by visiting the web site www.olfa.com/Lowes.

For the first time, three of OLFA's top professional-grade, premium-quality products will be available at the contractor desks at participating Lowe's stores, including:

• 18mm Heavy-Duty Rubber Reinforced Comfort Grip Utility Knife (LA-XS) – This heavy-duty knife is part of a powerful line of anti-slip cutting tools that are suitable for cutting drywall, leather, rubber, cardboard, rope, paper, carpet, fiberglass, acetate, linoleum and plastic. The cutter features an anti-slip, comfort grip handle engineered of fiberglass for strength, conjoined with elastomer for Acetone resistance and easy cleaning. It includes the renowned OLFA eight-edge silver LB snap-off blade made from high-quality carbon tool steel, plus a heavy-gauge stainless steel blade channel and automatic blade-lock which hold the blade tight for reliable, accurate cutting. For added convenience, the cutter features a built-in hard metal pick designed for multiple uses, including a carpet tucker, paint can opener, a screwdriver and more.
• 18mm Heavy-Duty Rubber Grip Utility Knife (NOL-1) - This heavy-duty knife features an all-over anti-slip rubber grip handle for premium comfort and maximum performance. The all-over elastomer handle with a poly-acetate locking mechanism makes it an official Acetone resistant cutter. It features a strong ratchet-wheel blade-lock for extra blade control, and a heavy-gauge stainless steel blade channel that holds the blade tight. The knife includes the celebrated OLFA eight-edge silver LB snap-off blade, made from high-quality carbon tool steel and produced using the OLFA precise, multi-step production process for unparalleled sharpness and superior edge retention.
• 18mm Silver Snap-Off Blade 5-pack (LB-5B) - Pack includes five heavy-duty, 18mm snap-off blades that boast strength and accuracy in cutting. Blades are ideal for construction and industrial applications such as cutting drywall, linoleum, roofing, carpet and more. Made from high-quality carbon tool steel and produced using the OLFA precise multi-step production process for unparalleled sharpness and superior edge retention. Each blade contains eight cutting edges per blade which allows for thousands of reliable, accurate cuts with each blade for necessary job efficiency.

Regular pricing after the special introductory pricing will range from $9.98 for the knives and $4.98 for the blade pack.

For more information about OLFA products, as well as special introductory pricing available at Lowe's, visit www.olfa.com/Lowe's.

OLFA is a registered trademark of OLFA Corporation, Japan, used under license by World Kitchen, LLC.

About OLFA Corporation

Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, OLFA® Corporation manufactures and markets a premium line of award-winning precision cutters, knives, blades and accessories for industrial professionals, contractors, do-it-yourselfers, safety managers and quilters and crafters. Since 1956, the company has developed industry innovations, including the world's first snap-off blade and rotary cutter.

About OLFA - North America

A division of World Kitchen, LLC. OLFA – North America has served as the North America sales and marketing unit for OLFA Corporation products since 1994.

SOURCE OLFA Corporation