Statement re Softline Limited

8 August 2003

  Sage offer for Softline: decision by Softline independent process committee  

Further to its offer announcement of 1 August 2003, The Sage Group plc ('Sage')
announces that the independent process committee of Softline Limited
('Softline') has accepted the Sage offer and recommended that Softline
shareholders seriously consider voting in favour of it.

The offer remains conditional upon finalising acquisition agreements, Softline
shareholders' approval, and regulatory clearances.

Simultaneous with this announcement, Softline has issued an announcement
outlining the details of the committee's decision. Further information on the
progress of the offer will be announced as appropriate.

Enquiries:

The Sage Group plc                  Financial Dynamics      
0191 255 3000                       020 7831 3113                        
                                                                     
Paul Walker, Chief Executive        Giles Sanderson                  
                                                                     
Paul Harrison, Finance Director     Harriet Keen                     
                                                                     
Phil Branston, Investor Relations   Caroline Ledosquet               
                                                                     

Notes to editors:

The Sage Group plc is a leading international supplier of accounting and
business management software solutions and related products and services for
small to medium-sized enterprises.  Formed in 1981, Sage was floated on the
London Stock Exchange in 1989 and the Group now employs over 5,500 people
worldwide.