Unlocking the potential of Uniq

The board of Uniq announces that it has decided to focus on those convenience food businesses with the greatest potential for significant profit growth and shareholder value creation, namely:

- the UK, where performance is already improving under the leadership of Rick Turnbull;

- Northern Europe, under the leadership of Frans Rombouts, where the focus will be on improving the performance of the German, Polish and Dutch businesses; and

- France, where Giampaolo Schiratti (previously with Bonduelle Groupe) has today been appointed to build the Marie convenience business

• As a consequence of the focus on these convenience food businesses, Uniq is exploring the divestment of its spreads business in France and its Belgian salad business. These businesses contributed £98m to group sales in the year ended 31st March 2006 (12% of total group sales). Belgian salads generated an operating margin of 12% and French spreads was the most significant contributor to operating profits and highest margin business in Southern Europe
• Proceeds from disposals under consideration will be used to eliminate borrowings, address the pension deficit and support Uniq's growth plans
• Uniq has retained Lazard in connection with the possible sale of the French spreads business and Rabobank in connection with the possible sale of the Belgian salad business
• Further details relating to these strategic initiatives are set out in the announcement of preliminary results for the year ended 31st March, 2006, made today

Chief Executive, Geoff Eaton commented as follows:

"Since joining the group in August 2005, we have undertaken a critical assessment of all areas of the business and have identified how we can maximise value for shareholders by focusing on our convenience foods businesses, degearing the company and addressing the pension position. We have put in place improvement plans and talented management to enhance significantly the value of all our businesses. The improvement plans are tough, and some will take time to bear fruit, but I am highly confident about the potential for Uniq."

For further information:

UNIQ plc
Geoff Eaton Chief Executive 01753 276011
Martin Beer Finance Director 01753 276011

Gainsborough
Julian Walker 020 7190 1705