June 22, 2004 -- Leverkusen, Germany -- With 2003 sales of around 7.5 billion euros and approximately 18,000 employees worldwide, Bayer MaterialScience AG is one of the mainstays of the Bayer Group. Since the beginning of 2004, the company has been operating as an independent, globally operating company within the Bayer Group. Bayer MaterialScience AG's activities are focussed on sustained, profitable growth. The company is therefore committed to improving efficiency and, in particular, to innovation and creative system solutions.

The international production network of Bayer MaterialScience, comprising 40 sites worldwide, produces more than 4 million tons of raw materials annually. Proximity to customers ensures short delivery times and flexible service. The main consumers of the company's products are the automotive and construction industries, the electrical/electronics sector and manufacturers of sports and leisure articles, packaging and medical equipment.

Among the best-sellers in the Bayer MaterialScience portfolio are the Makrolon®, Makrofol® and Apec® brands of high-quality polycarbonates. These products are indispensable for the manufacture of automotive components, optical storage media such as CDs and DVDs, medical equipment and many products integral to everyday life. For instance, polycarbonate sheeting is used to roof grandstands and train stations, and as transparent outer walls for gazebos and carports.

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