Directorate Change

Next PLC
17 May 2006


Changes to the Board of Next plc

Today David Jones steps down as Chairman of Next plc after 20 years service with
the Company. David has been Chairman of the Company for four years and was Chief
Executive for twelve years. David led the company through some of its toughest
times and has made an outstanding contribution to the development of the
business. David leaves with the profound thanks of his colleagues.

Next is pleased to announce that John Barton is appointed Chairman of Next plc.
John has been on the board of Next for four years and in that time has acted as
Senior Independent non-executive Director, Chairman of the Remuneration
Committee and Deputy Chairman.

Following John's appointment as Chairman, Jonathan Dawson has today been
appointed as Senior Independent non-executive Director.

A J R McKinlay
Company Secretary
Next plc



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