AGM Statement

Latham(James) PLC
10 August 2001

James Latham plc


First quarter 2001/02 Trading Statement



Sales for the first quarter of this financial year April  to June are 2.5%
ahead of the same period last year.  Trading started at our new depots at
Hemel Hampstead and Dudley on 2 July 2001.  Sales for their first month have
been very encouraging and should increase the Company's turnover and market
share over the coming months.



In addition, we are negotiating to purchase additional premises to relocate
our Panel Products and Timber Departments from Clapton.



As already stated in the Annual Report this is a year of considerable
development for the Group, both in terms of relocation and expansion.
Inevitably results for the year will be affected, before the benefits of this
programme are realised.



RJ Latham

Chairman

10 August 2001