---

Giffels Associates, Inc. Proposes to Join with ARCADIS

9 September 1999

Giffels Associates, Inc. Proposes to Join with ARCADIS

        Leading International Engineering Firm Brings Global Resources

    SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Sept. 9 -- The Board of Directors has
recommended that Giffels' join with ARCADIS, one of the world's largest
engineering firms.  Giffels' participation in the international ARCADIS group
of companies allows the 500-person, 75 year old architecture, engineering, and
planning firm to expand on a global basis and enhance its capabilities as a
fully diversified professional practice.  The joining of our companies is
anticipated to be completed within the next 45 days once approved by our
shareholders.
    ARCADIS was established in the Netherlands in 1888 and currently employs
over 7,000 people.  The multi-national engineering company specializes in
environmental, infrastructure, construction engineering, urban and rural
development, and real estate information services.  ARCADIS is currently
engaged in projects in more than 100 countries, and is represented in the
United States by ARCADIS Geraghty & Miller.
    "The international experience and network of ARCADIS is an ideal
complement to the planning and design services we provide to major industrial,
corporate, and institutional owners.  We are excited about our continued
growth and the synergies that results from the harmonious joining of our
resources, expertise, values, and culture with those of a premier global
company," comments Richard Bither, PE., president and chairman of Giffels',
who made the announcement.
    Giffels services the automotive OEM's, tier 1 suppliers, major
manufacturing corporations, governmental, educational and healthcare clients
along with multi-national Fortune 500 Corporations.
    Giffels consists of Giffels Associates, Inc. of Southfield, Michigan and
Phoenix, Arizona; Giffels Strategic Consultants, LLC of Southfield, Michigan;
Giffels Technologies, Inc. in Southfield, Michigan; and Giffels Hoyem Basso in
Troy, Michigan.  Providing comprehensive, professional consulting services in
planning, design, contract issued and focused construction support, the
combined operational units of Giffels have completed projects with a
construction value of nearly $1,000,000,000 annually.