PRESS RELEASE BERLI JUCKER TO FORM STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH SRITHAI SUPERWARE, UNDER CONDITIONAL AGREEMENT Berli Jucker Public Company Limited announced today that it has conditionally agreed to take a significant stake in Srithai Superware Public Company Limited through a plan that calls for it to inject fresh capital into the company and for Srithai's creditors to restructure its foreign-currency borrowings. Berli Jucker has conditionally agreed to inject THB 1,200 million into Srithai subject to the company's creditors consenting to restructure its foreign currency debt. Berli Jucker will fund its investment through the proceeds of its recently completed THB4 billion rights issue, which are also being used to privatize its Thai Glass Industries Public Company subsidiary and pay down debt. The plan, which has been agreed by the Boards of Berli Jucker and Srithai, still requires formal approval by Srithai's creditor banks. Berli Jucker's Chief Executive Officer David Nicol said: "Srithai is an excellent example of a well-run company with respected products and strong management that has been punished by the baht's depreciation over the last year. With fresh capital and breathing room from its creditors, and continued support from its management and staff, it should enjoy a robust recovery. Srithai is also a natural fit for us; its plastic containers and melamine products will mesh well with Berli Jucker's own glass container and consumer products businesses." "Berli Jucker continues to seek acquisition opportunities in Thailand. In addition to the proceeds of our recent rights issue, we are in discussion with our largeest shareholder, First Pacific Company Limited with regard to securing further funding should the right opportunity arise". 2/ Srithai's Group President, Khun Sanan Angubolkul said: "The proposed alliance between Srithai Superware and Berli Jucker augurs well for the future of both companies". Srithai, which is separately listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, sold last year THB 3.3 billion of thermoplastic products and melamineware (a plastic-based resin that is moulded into plates, sourcers, cups and other products). Approximately 20 percent of its output is exported to some 35 countries around the world. July 24, 1998 For further information please contact: David J. Nicol: Tel 367-1024 Blair Sinton: Tel 367-1026 E-mail: davidnicol@berlijucker.co.th