WELCOME TO THE MEDIA ARCHIVE

Change at the Top of Forbo

Eglisau, March 4, 2004

The unsatisfactory profit development of the last two years and the difficult market conditions have caused the Board of Directors to verify the strategies and the operational processes of the Group and to initiate the necessary changes.

For this purpose, the Board of Directors of the Forbo Group has appointed the 52 year old This E. Schneider as new President of the Executive Board with immediate effect. This E. Schneider has successfully made the Selecta Group the European market leader. At the Annual General Meeting on April 27, 2004 Schneider will also be proposed for election to the Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors and Werner Kummer (56), who has been the CEO of the Forbo Group since 1998, have mutually agreed to end his assignment. Werner Kummer will continue to be at Forbo’s disposal in the transition period.

In addition, there have been changes in the Board of Directors. Karl Janjöri (69), Chairman of the Board of Directors since 1998 and Member since 1986, has decided to step down.

As his successor the Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Willy Kissling (59) who has previously been Vice Chairman.

The media and financial analysts’ conference will take place on March 23, 2004 as scheduled.

Forbo is a global manufacturer of floor coverings, adhesives and conveyor, processing and transportation belts. The Group employs over 5.600 people worldwide and has an international network of 30 production companies and 45 sales organizations in 17 countries.

Contact:

Ursula Leonhard
Head of Corporate Communications
Tel: + 41 1 868 25 69
Fax: + 41 1 868 35 69