Acquisition

Smiths Group PLC
30 January 2002

Smiths acquires anaesthesia kits and trays business from Abbott

Smiths Group has acquired the epidural kits and trays business of Abbott
Laboratories, Hospital Products Division.   The assets were purchased for  $26
million, of which $15 million was paid on completion and the balance will be
paid on 30 June this year.

Production of kits & trays is being transferred to Smiths Medical facilities in
the US and UK. Abbott will continue to supply the analgesic drugs used in these
products within the US.  This deal will strengthen the position of Smiths
Medical as an international supplier of anaesthesia kits and trays.

Enquiries to:
Russell Plumley or Richard Bayliss
Tel: [phone]




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