Chief Executive Statement

SIG PLC
2 May 2000

                                                           
                       CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S STATEMENT - AGM

                                       

In market conditions where volume demand has been modestly positive and
pricing has been more stable, the Group has started the year well.

All of our main businesses have achieved sales and profit growth compared with
the first quarter of last year.

We have also continued to expand by acquisition and three small distribution
businesses have been added to our core activities during the first quarter.

As outlined in the Chairman's Statement in March, the Board continues to view
the outlook for the year with confidence.



Enquiries:

Bill Forrester, Chief Executive    SIG plc                  0114 285 6300
Frank Prust, Finance Director

Rupert Younger                     Finsbury Ltd             020 7251 3801
Faeth Finnemore