Board changes

Smith (DS) PLC 08 March 2006 8 March 2006 DS SMITH BOARD CHANGES DS Smith Plc, today announces that Antony Hichens, who has been Chairman since September 1999, will be retiring from the Board at the end of 2006, having reached the age of 70. The Company also announces that Peter Johnson will become Chairman from 1 January 2007. Peter, aged 58, has been a non-Executive Director of DS Smith since December 1999. He is currently Chief Executive of George Wimpey Plc and he will be retiring from this position on 30 June 2006. He is a Director of the Home Builders Federation Ltd, a Member of the Supervisory Board of Wienerberger AG and a Member of the Council for Industry and Higher Education. Commenting on the appointment of Peter Johnson, Antony Hichens said: 'Peter Johnson has made a major contribution to the Board's deliberations and decision making as a non-Executive Director. I am pleased that he will be taking up the position of Chairman and am confident that he will guide the Company wisely as it continues its development.' Enquiries DS Smith Plc 020 7932 5000 Peter Aubusson, Group Communications Manager Financial Dynamics 020 7269 7291 Richard Mountain/Susanne Walker This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange

Companies

Smith (DS) (SMDS)
UK 100