Re Franchisees

Claims Direct PLC 29 October 2001 Claims Direct agrees attractive franchisee exit package At the time of the Company's AGM on 19 September, it was reported that the Company was in negotiation with its claims managers ('franchisees') in order to reach an amicable solution to the problems of the Company's current business model and the operation of its claims management franchises. It was concluded that one of the keys to resolving the company's problems and returning it to profitability was a negotiated settlement of these franchise arrangements. Following full consultation with the National Franchise Association and many individuals and groups of franchisees, the Company has written to all its franchisees outlining the details of three alternative exit packages offering immediate and attractive cash payments in lieu of repayment of franchise fees as well as settlement of each completed live claim. The offers are now open for acceptance until the end of November, and in addition all franchisees are being offered the opportunity to be considered as an agent in the future once the Company's new business model is launched and operating in early 2002. It is anticipated that cash payments totalling up to £3.3m could become payable under the settlement. The Company will benefit however from managing those cases currently being managed by franchisees accepting the offer. It is expected that the Company will announce its interim results for the six months ended 30 September during the week commencing 19 November 2001, at which time a full update will be provided on current trading, including case run rates and the Company's financial position, and progress regarding re-engineering the business model, the Claim Line acquisition, and the many other issues affecting the business. Commenting on the resolution to the franchisees issue, Ronnie Henderson, Chief Executive of Claims Direct plc said: 'I am delighted that we have been able to offer an attractive exit package for our franchisees, many of whom will have the opportunity to continue as successful and highly regarded business partners once we launch our new business model in 2002. 'The resolution of this issue is the first but perhaps the most important step in the process of restoring both Claims Direct's image and its profitability.' - Ends - For further information, please contact: Claims Direct plc 01952 284800 Ronnie Henderson, Chief Executive www.claimsdirect.com Golin/Harris Ludgate 0207 324 8888 Reg Hoare/Trish Featherstone
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