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, foodservice, institutional and industrial markets. Founded in 1923 and headquartered in St. Paul, Minn., Ecolab reaches customers in more than 160 countries across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, and employs more than 21,000 associates worldwide. Customers include hotels and restaurants; healthcare and educational facilities; quickservice (fast-food and convenience stores) units; grocery stores; commercial and institutional laundries; light industry; dairy plants and farms; food and beverage processors; pharmaceutical and cosmetic facilities; and the vehicle wash industry. Products and services are marketed by the industry's largest and best-trained direct sales-and-service force, numbering more than 12,000 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 Pacific Exchange under the symbol ECL. Ecolab news releases and other selected investor information are available on the Internet at www.ecolab.com.

Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors
We refer readers to the company's disclosure, entitled "Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors," which is located on page 30 of this Annual Report.