Description of Business

Founded in 1923, Ecolab is the leading global developer and marketer of premium cleaning, sanitizing, pest elimination, maintenance and repair products and services for the world's hospitality, institutional and industrial markets.

Headquartered in St. Paul, Minn., Ecolab reaches customers in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, employing more than 19,000 associates worldwide. Customers include hotels and restaurants; foodservice, healthcare and educational facilities; quickservice (fast food) units; commercial laundries; light industry; dairy plants and farms; and food and beverage processors. Products and services are marketed by the industry's largest and best-trained direct sales-and-service force, numbering more than 10,000 associates who advise and assist customers in meeting a full range of cleaning, sanitation and
service needs.

Ecolab common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Pacific Exchange under the symbol ECL. Ecolab news releases and other selected investor information are available on the Internet at www.ecolab.com or by calling 1-800-FACT-ECL (1-800-322-8325).