Acquisition

Standard Life plc
26 October 2006

                               Standard Life plc


            Standard Life becomes minority shareholder in Simply Biz


Standard Life announces that it has purchased a 10% shareholding in Simply Biz
plc ('Simply Biz'), as part of the continued development of its distribution
strategy.  Simply Biz is one of the leading UK based providers of financial
compliance services and of training and support services to financial advisers.

Trevor Matthews, Chief Executive of Standard Life Assurance Limited said:

'This is another important step in the ongoing development of our business and
we are delighted to be associated with a company of Simply Biz's standing in the
industry.  Given the quality of their proposition, management team and track
record of delivery we believe this represents an excellent investment
opportunity.  We believe that the future for Simply Biz is a bright one.'

Ken Davy, Executive Chairman of Simply Biz plc said:

'I am particularly pleased to welcome Standard Life as a shareholder in Simply
Biz and believe this investment will enable us to strengthen our position as one
of the UK's leading providers of support services to financial advisers.
Financial advisers increasingly recognise the value added by our independent and
highly professional approach.  This investment demonstrates the quality of our
business and will help us to achieve even greater success in the future.'


26 October 2006


Enquiries:


Gillian Bailey, Investor Relations, 0131 245 1110
Danielle Pinnington, Press Office, 0131 245 0178
Peter Timberlake, Press Office, 020 7872 4485



Note:
As at 31 December 2005, the audited gross assets of Simply Biz were £12.0m.



END


                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange