Martin Color-Fi Granted Exclusive Rights by Clariant Corporation; ColorGuard(TM) Fiber to Enhance Manufacturers Automotive Segment

    EDGEFIELD, S.C., Jan. 24 Martin Color-Fi, Inc. ("MCF")
announced today that it has been granted exclusive rights by the Clariant
Corporation to utilize Clariant's new Nylostab S-EED(R) additive in the
manufacture and sale of polyester fiber for automotive applications.  MCF is
one of the leading producers of polyester for use in the automotive industry
and the agreement specifically covers this market segment in the United
States, Mexico and Canada.  This unique fiber, introduced today by MCF as
ColorGuard(TM), is stabilized against the long-term effects of ultraviolet
light and heat and provides an improved color appearance.
    ColorGuard(TM) fiber is a preferred solution available in all of MCF's
demanding applications as well as the automotive segment.
    Stephen A. Zagorski, President and CEO of MCF, commented, "We view this
new additive as enabling MCF to provide the next generation of solution dyed
polyester fiber."
    Robert A. Post, Vice President of Clariant's Additives Business Unit
added:  "We are excited about the impact our product will have in the
automotive segment and are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with a
significant player in Martin Color-Fi."
    Martin Color-Fi, Inc. is a leading producer of specialty staple fiber,
both solution dyed and natural, for a wide range of markets, including
automotive, industrial, home furnishings, floor coverings, apparel, and
construction.  The company also produces polypropylene and nylon staple fiber,
in addition to yarn, pigments and additives.