Joint Press Release by Georg Fischer Ltd, Schaffhausen, and Bühler AG, Uzwil

Georg Fischer Ltd, Schaffhausen (CH), is acquiring the bulk plastics handling activities of Bühler AG, Uzwil (CH), comprising pneumatic conveyor systems for raw materials and finished products. This transaction will enable both partners to focus their activities more efficiently.

Bühler GmbH, Braunschweig (D), is a member of the Bühler Group, Uzwil (CH). Waeschle Maschinenfabrik GmbH, Weingarten (D), belongs to the Plant Engineering Group of the Georg Fischer Corporation. Both companies manufacture pneumatic conveying systems for bulk solids handling.

That transaction will enable Bühler to concentrate on the foodstuffs sector of bulk solids handling business, and expand its market lead in plastics refining and production processes for paints, printing inks and chemicals.

Waeschle will likewise be enabled to further boost its worldwide activities with a wider and more innovative range of products and services for more complex plants.

Waeschle plans to take over a number of plastics handling employees in various countries from Bühler. The Braunschweig operations in the above mentioned field of activities will be continued.

The transaction will become effective as of January 1, 1998. The request for approval by the respective cartel authorities has been filed.

Schaffhausen/Weingarten/Uzwil, October 16, 1997