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| TA ASSOCIATES COMPLETES MINORITY INVESTMENT IN MICROBAN INTERNATIONAL |
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| February 17, 2005 - Boston, MA
TA Associates, a leading private equity = and buyout firm, announced today it has completed a minority investment in New York-based Microban International, Ltd., a global leader in built-in antimicrobial product protection. Founded in 1994, Microban International manufactures and distributes antimicrobial protection and durable antibacterial and antifungal solutions for consumer, industrial and medical products around the world. The company's EPA-registered Microban=AE antimicrobial technologies are integrated into the manufacturing processes of a wide range of materials, including polymers, textiles, coatings, paper, adhesives and ceramic glazes to provide durable protection for the lifetime of the protected product. Microban antimicrobial product protection is effective against most common bacteria, yeasts, molds and fungi that cause stains, odors and product degradation. Microban compounds, which include a variety of organic and inorganic antimicrobials, have been incorporated into more than 700 products from cutting boards to flooring. Microban International also licenses the Microban brand, the leading brand in built-in antimicrobial protection, to more than 140 companies incorporating Microban protection, including manufacturers of consumer branded products, retailers offering private label products, and manufacturers of commercial and industrial products. To support its licensees, Microban International operates seven offices worldwide. "We are pleased to make this investment in Microban International, the clear leader in branded antimicrobial ingredients," said Michael S. Berk, a Principal at TA Associates, who will join the company's Board of Directors. "With an attractive and highly scaleable business model and a diverse customer base, Microban has potential for significant further growth. We are excited to partner with this truly innovative company and look forward to working closely with CEO Bill Rubinstein and his impressive management team." "We are delighted to announce our partnership with TA Associates," said Bill Rubinstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Microban International. "We are confident that this strategic relationship represents an outstanding opportunity for Microban International as we move into our next phase of growth." Microban International grew revenues 40% in 2004, reflecting the rapid growth of the market for built-in, permanent antimicrobial protection. The growing market is due to rising global concern over bacteria and mold, as well as technological advances that allow for the incorporation of Microban compounds in a growing number of applications. Microban antimicrobial protection is already incorporated in a variety of consumer products, building products and other industrial applications, as well as medical products. "We recognize the high growth potential for innovative antimicrobial technologies," said Jeffrey S. Barber, a Principal at TA Associates, who will also join the company's Board of Directors. "Microban International's flexible technology and great brand positioning will enable it to penetrate new markets, thus solidifying Microban International's leading position in this expanding market." TA Associates has 37 years of investing experience, focusing on profitable, growth companies. The firm has extensive expertise investing in branded product and service companies, including And 1, Eastern Mountain Sports, Federal Express, Jenny Craig, Lumber Liquidators, Natrol, Power Bar, Tempur-Pedic International Inc. and United Pet Group. Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal counsel for TA Associates. Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP provided legal counsel to Microban International. |
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