Akzo Nobel acquires major French car paints distributor

Akzo Nobel acquires major French car paints distributor Arnhem, the Netherlands, August 22, 2002 - Akzo Nobel has strengthened its position in the French car refinishes market with the acquisition of major paint distributor Jouanne S.A. The French company specializes in the sale of refinishing paints and paint systems for commercial vehicles, and is the biggest of the 60 distributors that currently sell Sikkens car refinishes paint in France. Jouanne, which is mainly active in the North West of France, had an annual turnover of EUR 7.5 million in 2001. "Our aim in car refinishes is to build strong independent distribution networks, supported by our own branches in key markets," said Rudy van der Meer, Member of Akzo Nobel's Board of Management responsible for Coatings. "This acquisition will make an important contribution towards strengthening our distribution capability in France, which we see as one of our main strategic markets in Western Europe." Cor de Grauw, General Manager of Akzo Nobel's business unit Car Refinishes added: "This takeover represents a valuable acquisition for our company and leaves us ideally placed to reinforce our position as a major refinishes player in the region. Moreover, it enables us to continue the high level of service to which our customers have become accustomed." The French company, headquartered in Caen, will continue to trade under the name Jouanne S.A. Akzo Nobel has also acquired Jouanne's Le Havre- based subsidiary, SIP S.A. All 45 employees will transfer to Akzo Nobel. Note for the editor Akzo Nobel, based in the Netherlands, serves customers throughout the world with healthcare products, coatings and chemicals. Consolidated sales for 2001 totaled EUR 14 billion. The Company currently employs over 67,000 people in 80 countries. Financial results for the third quarter will be published on October 23, 2002. Internet: www.akzonobel.com Not for publication - For more information please contact: Akzo Nobel N.V., Marc Michelsen, Manager Corporate Communications, tel. +31 26 366 4343 Akzo Nobel Coatings SA, Jacques de Leissègues, General Manager Car Refinishes, tel. +33 3 4428 5301 ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net The following files are available for download: http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/08/22/20020822BIT00300/wkr0001.doc http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/08/22/20020822BIT00300/wkr0002.pdf