Appointment

Allen PLC
21 February 2001



FOR RELEASE                 7.00AM               21 February 2001


                       Allen Plc ('Allen' or 'Company')

                              (Support Services)


               BEESON GREGORY APPOINTED AS ALLEN'S STOCKBROKER


Allen, which has announced that it will focus on its hire services activities
and will be re-named Speedy Hire Plc, is pleased to announce that Beeson
Gregory Limited has been appointed as the Company's stockbroker.  Brewin
Dolphin Securities Ltd will remain as joint stockbroker.

David Wallis, the newly appointed Chairman of Allen, commented:

'We were impressed by Beeson Gregory's understanding of our market position
and the potential for Speedy Hire following the planned disposal programme
and, in particular, the all round strength of their team.

'We are looking forward to working closely with them during a period of
intense activity when we will be focusing on the expansion of our hire
services companies where we are continuing to see strong growth.  It is our
intention to dispose of our building contracting and utility services
activities.'

For further information:

Allen Plc
John Brown,Chief Executive Officer                        01204 699 277
Neil O'Brien, Finance Director                            01204 699 277

Binns & Co Public Relations
Brian Coleman-Smith/ Amanda Sheehy                        020 7786 9600