Change of Name&Trading Update

Nichols(J.N.)(Vimto) PLC 10 May 2000 Contacts: John Nichols, Chairman Nichols plc Telephone: 01925 222222 Alistair Mackinnon-Musson Philip Dennis Hudson Sandler Telephone: 020 7796 4133 J N NICHOLS (VIMTO) PLC Change of Group Name and Trading Update J N Nichols (Vimto) plc announces that from the conclusion of today's Annual General Meeting, it will be changing its name to Nichols plc to reflect the change in the nature of the Group's business. The company famous for its VIMTO soft drinks was formed in 1908 by John Noel Nichols. Whilst maintaining its interests solely in soft drinks for much of its history, the past decade has seen considerable change. Today, VIMTO accounts for less than half the Group's turnover as developments into tea, coffee, chocolate and numerous other hot beverages have been made. It also has significant presence in the vending and food service markets in addition to providing manufacturing and co-packing facilities for many of today's major food brands. Its interests in soft drinks on draught extend into pubs, clubs, leisure and catering outlets throughout the country and have recently been strengthened with the acquisition of Balmoral, the hot beverage systems business. Nichols plc has six operating businesses, and sells products to over 60 overseas markets. Commenting on the change, John Nichols, Chairman and grandson of the founder, said: 'The developments that have been made within the Group demonstrate that we are now far more than just a soft drinks business and our new name, Nichols plc, reflects that.' The Chairman also made the following comments on current trading at today's Annual General Meeting: 'The Group's Soft Drinks Division is benefiting from improved weather and the advertising campaign in the South East region, where market share is ahead. The new packaging designs are also proving successful and sales are on target for the year so far.' 'Nichols Foods is progressing as planned and is making solid headway.' 'The new products in the Beverage Systems operation are proving to be well received and the first contracts for the hospital trolleys have been signed. Cabana has been successfully integrated and costs have been reduced. Overall the operation is ahead of last year and on target for this.' 'We are particularly pleased with the progress made at Stockpack which had a difficult year last year and is now trading profitably, having secured some new significant contracts and is also benefiting from new management.' All resolutions at today's Annual General Meeting were passed by shareholders. Note to Editors: A photograph of the launch of the new name, Nichols plc, and signage is available. Please contact Philippa Robeson at Hudson Sandler on 020 7710 8932.