3M, the industry leader in packaging equipment and tapes, announced today the introduction of the new 3M-Matic stainless steel packaging equipment at the 2004 PackExpo show. Constructed with stainless steel components, the new versions of the 3M-Matic case sealers 700a-s, 700rf and 800af are highly resistant to corrosion in high-moisture manufacturing environments.

3M-Matic stainless steel equipment offers the same quality and performance of standard 3M-Matic packaging equipment with greater water resistance and durability than painted metal machinery. As an option, 3M offers 3M-Matic stainless steel equipment that conforms to NEMA standard 250 type 4 specifications that require watertight enclosures for switches and power sources for safe operation in food and beverage operations.

"Manufacturers have come to expect outstanding quality, reliability and service from 3M-Matic packaging equipment, and we continue to lead the industry by offering the same equipment in noncorroding stainless steel," said Michael Koller, packaging business unit manager, 3M Industrial Adhesives and Tapes Division. "With 35 years of innovative packaging equipment and tapes, 3M has the experience to help its customers get the job done."

For information on the full line of 3M-Matic stainless steel equipment, stop by the 3M booth (N-3643), phone 1-800-362-3550 or visit http://www.3m.com/packaging.

3M in Packaging

Since the day in 1941 when 3M made its first packaging product - pressure-sensitive tapes to seal K-rations for the U. S. Army - 3M has been a leader in packaging. From those now-famous Scotch brand tapes to high-speed 3M-Matic packaging machinery to integrated packaging management solutions and security assurance products, 3M is an established leader in the industry. As an $18 billion, diversified technology company, 3M holds a unique position as both a top supplier and as a major user of packaging technology. 3M knows packaging - with expertise in issues affecting diverse industries - food and beverage; life sciences consumer packaged goods; electronics and semiconductor; aerospace; communications; computer equipment; and many others. 3M's expertise in packaging can add value to virtually any company's operations and serve needs such as packaging automation, product protection, identification and brand building, security and cost management.

For more information, including the latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com/packaging

About 3M -- A Global, Diversified Technology Company

Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen. Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know they can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers in more than 200 countries around the world, the company's 67,000 people use their expertise, technologies and global strength to lead in major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more information, including the latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com.

Scotch, 3M-Matic, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.

3M, St. PaulRon Wenaas, 651-736-7918www.3M.com/profile/pressbox/media_contacts.jhtmlorSnow CommunicationsDrea Garrison, 612-746-1717