Pre-close Statement

Yule Catto & Co PLC
08 December 2004

Yule Catto & Co plc

Pre-close Statement



In keeping with best practice, Yule Catto & Co plc makes the following pre-close
statement ahead of entering its close period on 31 December 2004:



The double digit volume growth in the Polymer division reported at the half-year
has continued, highlighting the benefit of the investment made in additional
manufacturing capacity across the world.  The impact of the price of oil remains
an issue and although it has fallen from recent peak levels, it continues to be
reflected in high downstream monomer costs.  Coupled with an environment of
tight monomer supplies, this will impact upon margins for the division, which
are expected to be lower in the second half compared to the first six months of
2004.



Growth in the global proton pump inhibitor market, combined with pipeline
filling for the launch of ZegeridTM in October in the USA, has resulted in
strong sales of omeprazole.  With sales of other products at predicted levels,
profit in the Pharma and Fine Chemical division will exceed expectation.



Overall, earnings for the year are anticipated to be in line with market
forecasts.



8 December 2004




ENQUIRIES:

Yule Catto                                               Tel: [phone]
Alex Walker, Chief Executive
Sean Cummins, Finance Director

College Hill                                             Tel: [phone]
Gareth David
Crawford Burden







NOTES TO EDITORS



Yule Catto is an international producer of speciality chemicals, which are
supplied to global customers, ranging from manufacturers of medical gloves,
paint and adhesives to the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industries.



The group is based in Harlow, Essex, employs a total of 3,500 people and has
operations in the UK, continental Europe, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Middle East
and South Africa.  Yule Catto comprises three divisions: Polymer Chemicals,
Pharma and Fine Chemicals and Performance Chemicals.



ZegeridTM is the patented immediate release formulation of omeprazole launched
by Santarus Inc (www.santarus.com) for the treatment of gastrointestinal
disorders.


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