Whatman plc ("Whatman"), a leading supplier of separations technology to the life sciences industry, today provides an update on trading.

At the beginning of the year, Whatman estimated its revenue growth for 2006 in the range of 6-8% and the Company now confirms that its full year revenue growth for 2006 is expected to be in the 6-7% range.

Revenues during the first half were up 8% compared to the same period in 2005, excluding the effect of exchange rate movements. In the second half, we have seen an overall softening in the market and it has taken longer than anticipated to rebuild customer volumes following the disruption resulting from the restructuring of our manufacturing facilities last year.

Operating margins will be affected by the somewhat slower sales growth, and will additionally be impacted by the discovery of an accounting error in the recording of stock in our US operations which will negatively impact profits for the year by £600,000. As a result of these issues, earnings before interest, tax and amortisation are expected to be slightly lower than current analysts’ consensus estimates.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Bob Thian, Chairman of Whatman, said:

“Although we are on track to meet the revenue growth guidance given at the beginning of the year, it is nevertheless disappointing to see a slower pattern of trading in the second half against a backdrop of weaker market conditions. In addition, it is most unfortunate to have to report the discovery of a stock accounting issue. We have taken immediate remedial action to tighten our internal controls and are redoubling our sales efforts to accelerate top line growth.”

Whatman will be providing a further trading update in early January 2007.

Enquiries:

Whatman Plc
Phil Greenhalgh, Finance Director
Tel: +44 (0)20 8326 1746

Financial Dynamics
David Yates
Tel: +44 (0)20 7831 3113