RSDB finishes the year strongly

On the basis of preliminary results for the 2003 financial year, RSDB realised an operating result from ordinary activities which was approximately 25% below the 2002 result.
After deduction of EUR 5.8 million net provisions for reorganisations at PlantijnCasparie, the net result is expected to amount to approximately EUR 2.0 million.

A further weakened economy unequivocally confirmed the exposure of the information and communications industry to the economic cycle. Lower demand, combined with long-term excess capacity, resulted in further declining price levels.
In these market conditions Roto Smeets realised further growth of its market share and Media Partners managed to realise an ‘all time high’ result, while PlantijnCasparie had a tough and financially strongly disappointing year.
In the mean time, the consultative procedures within PlantijnCasparie have been completed and the substantial implementation process with regard to partial divestment, integration and closure of ten subsidiaries is proceeding as scheduled.

The last few months of 2003, traditionally the busiest period of the year, saw a strong increase of market demand. This volume increase, which did not result in increased price levels and with regard to which the following months must prove whether it was the start of a structural recovery, contributed to RSDB's strong finish of 2003.

The definitive annual results for 2003 will be announced on Thursday 11 March 2004, before the start of trading, and presented and explained during a press conference and analyst meeting to be held on that day.

Hilversum, 15 January 2004

ROTO SMEETS DE BOER NV
Executive Board

For more information: Hans de Jong / Leo van Gelder, tel. +31 35 625 86 03