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1999 Press Releases
12-9-99 Amy T. Hsu Joins Fitz Chem
Takes on Position of Sales Coordinator
11-3-99 Wacker Polymer Line Added to Fitz Chem
Product Representation Begins November 1st
10-25-99 Astacio Takes on Role as Inventory Coordinator
Effective July 19, 1999
10-12-99 Fitz Chem to Represent Solvay In Midwest
Named Distributor for Performance Chemicals Line
9-28-99 Parry's Role at Fitz Chem Continues to Grow
Named Customer Relations Manager in March of 1999
9-27-99 Fitz Chem Hosts Regional HazMat Training
Elmhurst Fire Department Played Key Role
9-24-99 Royce International Announces Fitz Chem as Distributor
Distribution to Cover Midwest Area
9-23-99 Fitz Chem Extends Territory Coverage to Include Detroit-Michigan Area
9-17-99 Fitz Chem to represent Rhodia
Named distributor in Midwest States
9-17-99 Amanda Polacek Named New Inside Technical Associate
Formal Appointment was Made on April 19th, 1999
8-12-99 Baker Joins Fitz Chem Marketing Department
Effective August 12, 1999
6-9-99 Rhodia Names Fitz Chem as Distributor for Silicone Fluids, Emulsions and Resins in Midwest
2-1-99 Given vote of confidence by Laporte
Fitz Chem expands to serve Detroit, Toledo areas
1-28-99 Henkel Plastics names Fitz Chem as rep
Fitz Chem's proven performance key to choice
1-4-99 Technical Industry Management Success
Milano named Director of Sales
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Amy T. Hsu Joins Fitz Chem
Takes on Position of Sales Coordinator
Elmhurst, Illinois - December 9, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, appoints Amy T. Hsu to the position of Sales Coordinator.

Hsu will be responsible for contact with Fitz Chem principals and customers as well as being the main liaison with the inside and outside sales force. Her essential duties and responsibilities will include taking and processing of customer requests, maintaining computerized pricing information, and communicating pricing information to customers. She will also be involved in maintaining Fitz Chem's sales and marketing databases.

"I am pleased to be able to bring my sales support skills to Fitz Chem. I am happy to be a part of this organization," commented Hsu.

Hsu brings with her a solid background in sales support. Before joining Fitz Chem in October, she worked supporting the sales staff at National Material L.P. in Elk Grove Village, IL.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit Fitz Chem at our award-winning website - www.fitzchem.com.

Wacker Polymer Line Added to Fitz Chem
Product Representation Begins November 1st
Elmhurst, Illinois - November 3, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced today that they have been appointed as distributor for Wacker Polymer Systems in the territory of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Minnesota, effective November 1, 1999.

A joint venture between Air Products And Chemicals, Inc. and Wacker-Chemie GmbH, Wacker Polymer Systems produces and sells a diverse range of binders for the building materials and for the paint and coatings industries. Wacker Polymer Systems embraces a range of worldwide activities in the field of redispersible powders, including dispersions for the construction chemicals industry, as well as product systems for a large number of new applications.

Wacker's innovative products ¾ Pioloformâ and Vinnolâ, Vinnapasâ Solid Resins and Vinnapasâ Redispersible Powders ¾ are now available through Fitz Chem.

"Wacker is the global leader in the field of redispersible powders. Fitz Chem is pleased to represent these high quality products, " said Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing.
John Jury, Sales Manager for Wacker's Industrial Coatings, commented, "Wacker is thrilled to have Fitz Chem join our outstanding family of distributors. We know Fitz Chem's technical capabilities will help enhance our sales in the Midwest region."

Beginning November 1st, orders for Wacker Polymer products may be phoned to Fitz Chem at 630/516-3344.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.

Astacio Takes on Role as Inventory Coordinator
Effective July 19, 1999
Elmhurst, Illinois - October 25, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, appoints Sandy Astacio to the position of Inventory Coordinator.

Astacio will be responsible for coordinating and controlling all of Fitz Chem's inventory. Her essential duties and responsibilities will include monitoring inventory stock, ensuring Material Safety and Data Sheets are current as well as working one-on-one with Fitz Chem's principals on inventory issues. She will also be involved in entering and updating our product database.

When asked to comment on her position, Astacio replied: "My background has been mainly on the manufacturing side, dealing with overseas suppliers. Switching to the distribution side is an exciting challenge. There is such a short lead time when working with principals, so customer relations and forecasting is key for this position."

Astacio brings with her over ten years s of solid experience in customer service. She began her career helping customers in the printed-circuit board industry, working with such companies as Zenith, Motorola, IBM and US Robotics. And she has spent the last three years doing purchasing and inventory control for Senior Industries in Woodale, IL.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit Fitz Chem at our award-winning website - www.fitzchem.com.
Fitz Chem to Represent Solvay In Midwest
Named Distributor for Performance Chemicals Line
Elmhurst, Illinois - October 12, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced today that they have been appointed as distributor for Solvay's line of performance chemicals in the territory of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Minnesota, effective August 1, 1999.

Founded in 1863, The Solvay Group has grown to become a global group of chemical and pharmaceutical companies specializing in four sectors: Chemicals, Plastics, Processing and Pharmaceuticals. Today Solvay is one of the leading manufacturers of soda ash, salt, barium strontium, and the world's leading producer of peroxygens. Fitz Chem has been authorized to distribute the following Solvay performance chemicals: BLANC FIXE BRILLIANT, N GRADE and HD-80 precipitated barium sulfate.

"We are proud to represent Solvay. The company has a strong line of performance chemicals which we feel bring added value to the Fitz Chem distribution mix," commented Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing.

As of August 1, 1999, orders for Solvay performance chemicals may be phoned to Fitz Chem at 630/516-3344.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.

Parry's Role at Fitz Chem Continues to Grow
Named Customer Relations Manager in March of 1999

Elmhurst, Illinois - September 28, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced that Christy Parry has assumed the position of Customer Relations Manager for the company.

Ever since joining Fitz Chem in 1992, Parry has continued to grow within the company. Initially she worked as a customer service representative, then, based on her superior performance, she was promoted to Inventory Coordinator in April of 1998. When offered her current position of Customer Relations Manager, Parry was enthusiastic.

"I really enjoy dealing one-on-one with customers. And the role of manager allows me to interface with customers on a daily basis in a way that produces a solid feeling of accomplishment for me and results for Fitz Chem," commented Parry.

As Customer Service Manager for Fitz Chem, Parry will set pricing, implement procedures for superior customer service in addition to managing the company's customer service representatives. Eventually, her role will expand to also include developing and managing a staff of sales coordinators.

An Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit Fitz Chem at our award-winning website - www.fitzchem.com.

Fitz Chem Hosts Regional HazMat Training
Elmhurst Fire Department Played Key Role
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 27, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, recently hosted a regional HazMat training exercise at its corporate headquarters.

On June 23rd, 1999, Fitz Chem along with the Elmhurst Fire Department held a regional HazMat training exercise consisting of 52 firemen from 13 towns in MABAS Region 12, DuPage County Illinois. The drill simulated a leaking tote tank on the back of a 43-foot semi trailer. With the help of Falcon Express of Markham, IL, two tote tanks, one labeled Flammable and one Corrosive, were loaded in the back of the trailer. The trailer was placarded with Dangerous placards. The Corrosive tote was filled with approximately 100 gallons of water dyed with a fluorescent green dye and labeled Potassium Hydroxide, Corrosive. The trailer was parked on the roadside near a storm sewer opening with shipping papers and Material Safety Data Sheets in the cab of the truck. The valve on the Corrosive tote was opened allowing the dyed water to run through the floor of the truck to the storm sewer.

The local Elmhurst Fire Department was called and responded to the scene. The Elmhurst Fire Department assessed the situation and, due to the fact that the material had reached the storm sewer, called in help from various back up departments as well as the local EPA. The hazard was determined, and the valve closed and capped. Teams were dispatched to various sites throughout the town to monitor storm sewers for the presence of the green dye.

"Our goal was to stage a realistic situation which occurs in the shipping of hazardous chemicals on a daily basis. The HazMat teams did an excellent job in assessing the situation and handling the problem with a minimum of risk to people and the environment. We would like to thank the Elmhurst Fire department for asking Fitz Chem to be involved in the regional training. Without much effort we were able to successfully train a significant number of HazMat specialists from the surrounding communities," commented Mike Mack, Director of Operations for Fitz Chem.

For more information about the training or the staging of the incident, please contact the Elmhurst Fire Department at www.elmhurst.org/fire.html or Mike Mack of Fitz Chem at mmack@fitzchem.com.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.
Royce International Announces Fitz Chem as Distributor
Distribution to Cover Midwest Area
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 24, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced today that they have been appointed as distributor for Royce International in the territory of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Minnesota, effective August 1, 1999.

Royce International offers a full range of epoxy resins and hardeners manufactured by Cibatul in India. Formed in 1960, Cibatul is a former joint venture between CIBA-GEIGY and the Atul group of India. For over 30 years, Cibatul products have been marketed through CIBA-GEIGY all over the world. These products are now directly offered through Royce.

"Royce International offers a very comprehensive line of epoxy resins and hardeners. Fitz Chem is pleased to be distributing such fine products," commented Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing.

As of August 1, 1999, orders for Royce epoxy resins and hardeners may be phoned to Fitz Chem at 630/516-3344.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.
Fitz Chem Extends Territory Coverage to Include Detroit-Michigan Area
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 23, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced today that they have expanded their distribution area to include Detroit and surrounding portions of Michigan.

"Fitz Chem continually strives to strengthen and enhance our strategic alliances. With the expansion of our territory, Fitz Chem can now bring our principal's ¾ who are recognized leaders in the areas of quality, product innovation, technology and superior service ¾ to the Detroit-Michigan area," said Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing.

Don Tersigni, has been appointed Technical Industry Manager for the Detroit-Michigan area. For more information on Fitz Chem or to place an order, Don can be reached at 877/941-FITZ x7309 or, via e-mail, dtersigni@fitzchem.com.

Since 1985, Fitz Chem has been a leading distributor in the Midwest. In addition to the Detroit expansion, Fitz Chem services Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.

Fitz Chem to represent Rhodia
Named distributor in Midwest States
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 17, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced today that they have been appointed as distributor for Rhodia in the territory of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Minnesota, effective August 1, 1999.

Rhodia (formerly Rhone-Poulenc's Chemicals and Fibers & Polymers operations) is one of the world's leading specialty chemical companies. Fitz Chem will handle the following products for Rhodia: RHODORSILâ silicone fluids, antifoams, emulsions and resins.

"Fitz Chem welcomes Rhodia. We feel Rhodia's products will complement our existing product line very nicely," said Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing.

As of August 1, 1999, orders for these products may be phoned to Fitz Chem at 630/516-3344.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics, rubber, ink, adhesives, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.

Amanda Polacek Named New Inside Technical Associate for Fitz Chem
Formal Appointment was Made on April 19th, 1999
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 17, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, announced Amanda Polacek has been appointed to the position of Inside Technical Associate.

Since graduating from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in Biological Science and a minor in Chemistry, Polacek has built on her scientific background. She gained a wealth of experience doing laboratory work within the food industry before taking an outside account management position in scientific and industrial staffing.

In her role at Fitz Chem, Polacek will oversee management of Paint and Coatings, Ink, Plastics, Adhesives and Paper accounts. The position entails servicing and monitoring accounts as well as providing technical assistance and product recommendations. "Fitz Chem is a wonderful organization with a solid reputation. It has been very beneficial in helping me to establish a good rapport with the principals Fitz Chem represents," said Polacek.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program.

Baker Joins Fitz Chem Marketing Department
Effective August 12, 1999
Elmhurst, Illinois - September 17, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives Industries, appoints Rebecca Baker to the position of Marketing Assistant.

Working with Ed Croco, Vice President of Marketing, Baker will be responsible for overseeing all of Fitz Chem's advertising and marketing related activities. Her essential duties and responsibilities will include production of the Fitz Chem quarterly newsletter, preparation of press releases, development and design of promotional materials, and development of company presentations. She will also be involved in ongoing efforts to establish and market Fitz Chem and its products on the Internet. In addition, she will support Croco with marketing plans and other administrative duties.

Baker brings with her a solid background in marketing. Since obtaining her B.S. in Marketing at Santa Clara University, she has spent the last three years honing her marketing skills. First at Wadsworth Publishing in Belmont, CA and, most recently, at CASS Communications, an advertising rep firm located in Evanston, IL. "I am excited about being part of Fitz Chem. It is an opportunity to utilize my skills in a different and challenging industry," says Baker of the appointment.

Fitz Chem, an Elmhurst, Illinois-based corporation, is a leading distributor and sales agent of raw materials. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, also located at 185 Industrial Drive in Elmhurst. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan, for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit Fitz Chem at our award-winning website - www.fitzchem.com.

Rhodia Names Fitz Chem as Distributor for Silicone Fluids, Emulsions and Resins in Midwest

CRANBURY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 9, 1999--Rhodia announces it has selected Fitz Chem as its newly authorized distributor for silicone specialty fluids, emulsions and resins in the Midwest.

Fitz Chem will represent and distribute Rhodia's Rhodorsil® brand silicone fluids, emulsions and resins to customers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and the Dakotas.

Based in Elmhurst, Ill., Fitz Chem is a leading supplier of raw materials to the paint, coatings, plastics and other industries. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors and is certified under the Responsible Distribution Process Program, an industry standard for chemical distributors.

For more information, call 630/941-0410, or visit the Fitz Chem website at www.fitzchem.com.

Rhodia (NYSE:RHA - news), one of the world's leading specialty chemicals companies, employs 26,000 people worldwide and in 1998 recorded sales of $6.4 billion. Rhodia is a subsidiary of Rhone-Poulenc S.A. (NYSE: RP - news), a leading life sciences company.

Given vote of confidence by Laporte
Fitz Chem expands to serve Detroit, Toledo areas
Elmhurst, Illinois - February 1,1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, announced today their appointment as representative of Laporte Pigments' entire product line for the greater Detroit area. This appointment becomes effective February 17, 1999. The Detroit territory for Laporte includes all of eastern Michigan and the six counties surrounding Toledo, Ohio. Fitz Chem has enjoyed a eight year relationship with Laporte and their Mapico division. Fitz Chem currently represents Laporte's complete product line in Indiana, Illinois, eastern Iowa, Wisconsin, Western Michigan and Minnesota.

The addition of this Laporte territory to Fitz Chem's current service area represents an expansion move by the company. Said Fitz Chem President, Bob Becker, "We are poised to expand our current service area as opportunities present themselves. We are seeking growth through our reputation with our current principals and looking to add other lines that complement our already comprehensive offerings. In this way we can better service our customers and better serve our principals."

Fitz Chem, based in Elmhurst, Illinois, is a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives industries. Its distribution arm is FC Distribution, a public warehouse facility, at the same location. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest--including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan--for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit Fitz Chem on their award-winning website at: www.fitzchem.com.

Henkel Plastics names Fitz Chem as rep
Fitz Chem's proven performance key to choice
Elmhurst, Illinois - January 28, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives industries, announced they have been appointed as distributors of Henkel Corporation's Polymers and Plastic Additives Division products as of January 1, 1999. Fitz Chem will represent and distribute Henkel's EDENOL® plasticizers, LOXIOL® lubricants, STABIOL® heat stabilizers and DEHYDAT® anti-stats to plastics customers in northern Illinois and Indiana, eastern Iowa, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and all of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Henkel made a special announcement of the change on January 22, 1999.
Fitz Chem has enjoyed a seven year relationship with Henkel, distributing their industrial, architectural, paper and ink products. Said Fitz Chem Director of Sales, Bob Milano, "Our appointment to distribute Henkel products in the plastics marketplace is based on our proven performance with Henkel's other products. It is also a vote of confidence in our new Technical Industry Management system. Ted Papousek, our Technical Industry Manager for Plastics, can better serve our plastics customers with this expansion to our line, raising their awareness of Henkel and helping them make an across-the-board fit for many of their chemical and raw material needs."

Fitz Chem, of Elmhurst, Illinois, is a leading distributor and agent of raw materials. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest--including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan--for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit with Fitz Chem on their award-winning website at, www.fitzchem.com.

Technical Industry Management Success
Milano named Director of Sales
Elmhurst, Illinois - January 4, 1999: Fitz Chem Corporation, a leading Midwest distributor/sales agent of raw materials to the Paint, Coatings, Plastics, Rubber, Ink and Adhesives industries, announced that 11-year Fitz Chem veteran, Bob Milano has been named Director of Sales. Milano brings 17 plus years of industry and management experience to this newly created position. In recent restructuring, Fitz Chem placed greater emphasis on serving industries which make up the majority of their sales base. By bringing more technical expertise to Fitz Chem's marketplace, the all-new Technical Industry Management approach afforded Fitz Chem a 14% increase in sales during the last half of 1998. With an accumulated industry experience of over 125 years, the expanding Fitz Chem sales force continues to grow in strength and in expertise. Each targeted industry has been assigned a Technical Industry Manager ("TIM") manage all aspects of sales for their assigned industry-from professional association participation, to research, to applications and beyond. Fitz Chem "TIMs" are then able to concentrate their approach to the customer, enhancing the distributor-customer relationship. Some Fitz Chem customers have been reassigned to the TIM who is more closely allied with their needs and the needs of their industry. This alignment of needs and expertise creates a greater bond in the customer-distributor partnership as knowledge and expertise are shared between and amongst the customer and Fitz Chem associates.

"The shot-gun approach in distribution is over," said newly named Director of Sales, Bob Milano. "No one person can be an expert in every field for every industry. Fitz Chem is committed to providing our customer base with the expertise for their application. Customer needs are better served and our resources used more wisely, no duplication of effort. It allows a bonding of need with expertise-saving time and money for our customers. Our goal is to be the one-stop raw material shop for all the industries we serve."

The TIMs serving the various industries of Fitz Chem's marketplace are:
Inks & Adhesives Industries (David Crenshaw with 22 plus years experience);
Paint & Coatings (Jack Krish with over 25 years experience, Bob Milano with over 20 years experience, Don Tersigni with 10 plus years experience in industrial coatings, and Susan DiSantis with 7 years experience in the Paints, Coatings, Cosmetics and Foods industries);
Plastics & Rubber (Ted Papousek with over 10 years experience);
Technical Specialty areas and Inside Sales (Cathy Hoffman, with over 9 years of industry experience);
Fitz Chem's sales team environment also allows TIMs to work unite, consult and share expertise to expediently resolve specific multi-faceted customer projects.

"Not all customer projects can be confined to just one area of expertise," explained Director of Sales, Milano. "By using Fitz Chem as a resource, our customers get cohesive solutions with the type of guidance and attention that allows projects to be completed by the customer in a timely and cost effective manner."

Fitz Chem, of Elmhurst, Illinois, is a leading distributor and agent of raw materials. Fitz Chem has served the Midwest--including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan--for over 14 years. Fitz Chem is an active member of the National Association of Chemical Distributors ("NACD") and is certified under their "Responsible Distribution Process" program-the industry standard for chemical distributors. Visit with Fitz Chem on their award-winning website at, www.fitzchem.com/fcinfo/.