Marlin announces the acquisition of Intuitive Manufacturing Systems

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., October 14, 2005 – Marlin Equity Partners today announced the acquisition of Intuitive Manufacturing Systems, Inc., a Kirkland, WA-based provider of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software and services to small and mid-size manufacturing companies.

David McGovern, Managing Director of Marlin Equity Partners, said, “The acquisition of Intuitive complements Marlin’s strategy of investing in businesses with strong installed customer bases, proven management teams, and attractive growth prospects. Intuitive is well positioned for continued growth and success through its market leading Microsoft .NET technology and development plan, its strong customer base and its outstanding management team.”

Chuck Gillam will continue to lead Intuitive forward as Chief Executive Officer and Sara Gillam will remain in her role as Executive Vice President of Product Management. McGovern stated, “In Chuck and Sara Gillam, we have backed an experienced management team with a track record of success. We see ample opportunity to build on what they have achieved to date, and pursue growth initiatives which will expand their product offering and lead Intuitive successfully into the future.”

Chuck Gillam added, “We are excited to be partnering with Marlin Equity Partners to help expand our capital base and take Intuitive to the next level. In addition to its substantial capital resources, Marlin brings significant experience in growing profitable software businesses and generating above market returns for their investors. With respect to our customers, the Marlin partnership will provide the additional resources necessary to grow our business, increase investment in R&D, and ultimately make our product more robust and our service platform more comprehensive. We look forward to a successful partnership with them.”

About Marlin Equity Partners
Marlin Equity Partners is a leading private equity firm focused on providing corporate parents, shareholders, and other stakeholders with tailored solutions that meet their business and liquidity needs. Marlin seeks to partner with outstanding management teams to strengthen and grow its portfolio companies. In addition to capital, the Marlin team provides a network of strategic resources and relationships that help management teams recognize and achieve long-term value opportunities within their businesses. In cases where growth through acquisition is appropriate, Marlin brings to bear extensive resources to manage the transaction and integration processes. Marlin Equity Partners has a long and successful track record of creating superior returns for its investors by adhering to a disciplined investment approach aimed at building long-term value. Marlin Equity Partners is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. For more information, please visit www.marlinequity.com.

About Intuitive Manufacturing Systems
Intuitive Manufacturing Systems offers intuitive and flexible enterprise solutions that help small and midsize manufacturers achieve greater operational efficiency and profitability byintegrating business processes on an enterprise-wide level. Since 1994, Intuitive has been a technology leader, dedicated to providing its customers with software solutions that add value to their business. Intuitive’s enterprise solution is designed to deliver superior functionality, rapid implementation, high levels of usability and a technology standard that is unmatched in the industry. Intuitive’s enterprise solution is supported by a network of direct offices and business partners worldwide to provide the software and services to solve today’s business problems. Learn more at www.intuitivemfg.com.

For additional information, please contact Peter Spasov at (310) 364-0100 or via e-mail at pspasov@marlinequity.com.