26 October 2006

The MySQL database has become the world's most popular open source database because of its high performance and reliability, combined with a low footprint and ease of use. The introduction of MySQL will be led by the regional operating companies that make up The Sage Group as they progressively deploy the technology in their product ranges.

Chief Technology Officer of The Sage Group plc, Klaus-Michael Vogelberg explains:

"Having made the decision to further improve the database technology that underpins our products, we chose MySQL as it proved to be the most powerful and versatile solution available. MySQL embraces an open source methodology which injects rigour and agility into the development process. This approach accelerates innovation, and has allowed MySQL to become an incredibly flexible technology.

"In addition, MySQL reduces overall cost of ownership as it is not dependent on one platform or stack, and it has low hardware requirements which keeps costs down for SMEs and gives our customers choice in how they use their Sage products in relation to operating systems and other applications."

Under the long-term agreement any Sage application can now use MySQL technology within clearly defined terms.

David Axmark, one of MySQL AB's co-founders, said: "It is an incredibly strong validation for MySQL to be selected as a database standard by Sage - a clear business software leader. We look forward to working with Sage's operating companies to learn how their customers might benefit from MySQL."

The integration of this leading technology into Sage products will not involve any additional cost to the customer. As part of the MySQL integration into Sage products, upgrades will be designed to ensure smooth data migration from their existing Sage product.

Enquiries:

The Sage Group plc +44 (0) 191 294 3308

Emma Oliver, Corporate Communications

emma.oliver@sage.com

Tulchan Communications +44 (0) 20 7353 4200

Stephen Malthouse

sage@tulchan.com

MySQL AB

Steve Curry

Tel: +1 408 213 6544

press@mysql.com

Notes to editors:

The Sage Group plc is a leading international supplier of accounting and business management software solutions and related products and services, principally for small to medium-sized enterprises. Formed in 1981, Sage was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1989 and the Group now employs over 12,000 people worldwide. www.sage.com

Open source is a method of developing and distributing computer software so that the product's source code is always available to users under a copyright license that allows them to study, modify, and improve the software. 'Free' software such as MySQL refers to freedom, not necessarily free-of-charge.

About MySQL

MySQL AB develops and supports a family of high-performance, affordable database products. The company's flagship offering is 'MySQL Enterprise', a comprehensive set of production-tested software, proactive monitoring tools, and premium support services.

MySQL is the world's most popular open source database software, with over 10 million active installations. Many of the world's largest and fastest-growing organisations use MySQL to save time and money powering their high-volume Web sites, business-critical systems and packaged software -- including industry leaders such as Yahoo!, Alcatel, The Associated Press, Suzuki and NASA.

With headquarters in the United States and Sweden — and operations around the world — MySQL AB supports both open source values and corporate customers' needs in a profitable, sustainable business. For more information about MySQL, please visit www.mysql.com.

MySQL is a registered trademark of MySQL AB in the United States and other countries. Other product names may be trademarks of their respective companies."