UK Mixing Operation

Avon Rubber PLC 08 October 2007 Strictly embargoed until 13:30 Monday, 8 October 2007 Avon Rubber p.l.c. ('Avon', 'the Group' or 'the Company') UK MIXING OPERATION In May 2006 and again at our Interim Results announcement on 17 May 2007 we referred to our continuing efforts to eliminate losses in Avon Mixing, Westbury. Despite significant operational improvements and cost savings we have continued to incur unacceptable losses in this business. Having explored all other options to address this unsustainable situation, Avon has now appointed advisors who are actively committed to selling Avon Mixing on our behalf. However, should the efforts to sell the Avon Mixing business prove unsuccessful the Company's intention is to close this facility. Avon remains committed to being a world class materials specialist of polymer based products. In the UK we retain our extensive knowledge, skills and experience of rubber compounding through our Materials Development Centre in Westbury and through our manufacturing excellence at the Hampton Park West production plant in Melksham. Commenting on the decision, Terry Stead, Chief Executive of Avon Rubber said: 'The Group's strategy is to continue developing a strong market position with a balanced portfolio of businesses in the sectors of protection, engineered fabrications, and dairy. All of these businesses have been previously identified and are well positioned for growth.' < ENDS > For further enquiries, please contact: Avon Rubber p.l.c. 01225 896871 Fiona Stewart, Local/Trade Press Weber Shandwick Financial 020 7067 0700 Richard Hews Rachel Martin Hannah Marwood NOTES TO EDITORS: Avon Rubber p.l.c. is an international polymer engineering group adding value through material, manufacturing and industry sector expertise. The Group is currently capitalised at approximately £54 million. Avon supplies a range of advanced CBRN respiratory protection solutions through Avon Protection Systems Inc. to the world's military and police forces, as well as first responders and emergency services. Avon Rubber p.l.c. owns Avon-ISI, which designs, develops and manufactures a range of SCBA equipment for fire, rescue and law enforcement, as well as military applications. Avon Rubber p.l.c. also owns Avon Engineered Fabrications manufacturing products including hovercraft skirting and flexible storage tanks, an aerosol gasket business and a world leading dairy business manufacturing dairy liners and tubing This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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