AkzoNobel has agreed to divest its non-stick coatings business to
privately-owned, US-based company Whitford Worldwide. Financial
details have not been disclosed.
The deal involves AkzoNobel's global cookware and bakeware
activities, which operate out of five sites in the US, China, India,
Brazil and Italy. The transaction is expected to be completed in the
first quarter of 2009.

"Although it is a solid business, our non-stick coatings operation
does not have the scale for it to become a true market leader
globally," explained Leif Darner, AkzoNobel's Board member
responsible for Performance Coatings. "In the hands of new owners,
however, it offers good growth opportunities and we are convinced our
employees are joining an ambitious and successful company run by
capable professionals who we trust to take the business forward."

Added Whitford Worldwide's CEO Dave Willis: "Acquiring AkzoNobel's
non-stick activities gives us access to cutting-edge technology and
expertise which will enable us to significantly expand our portfolio.
It's an excellent business which fits in perfectly with our own
ambitions and growth plans."
Whitford Worldwide manufactures a wide range of non-stick coatings
for consumer applications of all types, including frying pans,
coffee-plate warmers and waffle makers. Founded in 1969, the company
also manufactures coatings for the chemical processing and
petrochemical industries.
AkzoNobel's non-stick coatings business employs around 140 people and
details about how many will be transferred are being discussed.
Unions and employee representative bodies have been informed and
consultations procedures will begin shortly, where applicable.
Regulatory approval will also be sought as and where appropriate.

----
Note to editors
AkzoNobel is proud to be one of the world's leading industrial
companies. Based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we make and supply a
wide range of paints, coatings and specialty chemicals - pro forma
2007 revenue totaled ?14.4 billion. In fact, we are the largest
global paints and coatings company. As a major producer of specialty
chemicals we supply industries worldwide with quality ingredients for
life's essentials. We think about the future, but act in the present.
We're passionate about introducing new ideas and developing
sustainable answers for our customers. That's why our 60,000
employees - who are based in more than 80 countries - are committed
to excellence and delivering Tomorrow's Answers Today(TM).

Not for publication - for more information


Akzo Nobel nv
Corporate Media Relations, tel.    Corporate Investor Relations, tel.
+31 20 502 7833                    +31 20 502 7856
Contact: Heleen van de Lustgraaf   Contact: Huib Wurfbain, Ivar Smits


This announcement was originally distributed by Hugin. The issuer is 
solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
http://hugin.info/130660/R/1282664/287000.pdf


Copyright © Hugin AS 2009. All rights reserved.