Henkel Strengthens Market Position in the U.S. Automotive Sector

Henkel acquires Orbseal LLC, producer of acoustic parts and car body sealants

DUSSELDORF, Germany and RICHMOND, Mo., Nov. 3 -- Henkel Corporation, a U.S. affiliate of Henkel KGaA, Düsseldorf, Germany, has acquired Orbseal LLC, based in Richmond, Missouri, from TSG Capital Fund III L.P., Sealion Co, and the Orscheln Group, and certain other holders effective October 29, 2004. Orbseal LLC manufactures and markets preformed acoustic parts and car body sealants in the USA, Australia, and the UK. In fiscal 2003, Orbseal LLC generated consolidated sales of 61 million USD. Orbseal LLC employs almost 400 people.

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"This acquisition will substantially strengthen Henkel's competitive position in the American automotive industry," explained Jochen Krautter, member of the Management Board of Henkel KGaA and Executive Vice President, Henkel Technologies. "Additionally, and this is especially important in today's automotive industry, the acquisition will strengthen our broad systems expertise."

Orbseal LLC has long-established relationships with the three largest U.S. automobile manufacturers, Ford, General Motors, and DaimlerChrysler.

Orbseal LLC's products are used in cutting-edge technology related to noise reduction, structural reinforcement and vibration minimization. With the acquisition of Orbseal LLC, Henkel invests in the world market for automotive acoustic materials and sealants, a market that has above-average growth rates.

"Henkel -- A Brand like a Friend"

Henkel is a leader with brands and technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful. The Henkel Group operates in three strategic business areas -- Home Care, Personal Care, and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatment. In fiscal 2003 the Henkel Group generated sales of 9.436 billion euros and an operating profit (EBIT) of 706 million euros. More than 50,000 employees work for the Henkel Group worldwide. People in 125 countries around the world trust in brands and technologies from Henkel.

This information contains forward-looking statements based on the current beliefs and estimates of Henkel's management. They are not guarantees of future performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond Henkel's ability to control or estimate precisely, such as future market and economic conditions and the behavior of other market participants. Henkel does not intend nor assume any obligation to update these forward- looking statements.

   Henkel Corporate Communications
   North America
   Pattie Jacobus
   Phone: 860-571-5248
   Fax : 860-571-5475
   Pattie.jacobus@us.henkel.com

   Mike Bruno
   Phone: 860-571-5141
   Fax: 860-571-5475
   Michael.bruno@us.henkel.com
   http://www.henkel.us/

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