Ecolab Inc. announced it has completed the sale of Peter Cox Limited, a leading United Kingdom provider of damp proofing, water proofing, timber preservation and wall stabilization for residential, commercial and public properties to Mavinwood PLC (LSE:MVW.L). Ecolab acquired the company in connection with Ecolab’s 2002 purchase of the Terminix Pest Control business in the United Kingdom. Based in London, 2006 revenues for the Peter Cox business were ₤16 million (approximately $32 million). Ecolab expects to record a $0.02 per share gain in the fourth quarter 2007 from the transaction. No further details regarding the transaction were announced.

Douglas M. Baker, Jr. Ecolab's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, saying, "This transaction reflects our work to focus our business portfolio on products and services which support and leverage our Circle the Customer – Circle the Globe strategy and core infrastructure. While a successful and profitable entity, we determined the Peter Cox business did not fit our long-term business model. This action will allow us to focus our resources on areas in which we can generate greater customer and shareholder value."

With sales of $5 billion and more than 13,000 sales-and-service associates, Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL) is the global leader in cleaning, sanitizing, food safety and infection prevention products and services. Ecolab delivers comprehensive programs and services to the foodservice, food and beverage processing, healthcare, and hospitality markets in more than 160 countries. More news and information is available at www.ecolab.com.

(ECL-C)