3M announced that Stefan Gabriel will join 3M, as vice president of New Ventures, effective today. In this newly created position, Gabriel will drive the company’s on-going efforts to identify, acquire and develop new-to-3M technologies and businesses using venture style funding and management.

Gabriel comes to 3M from BMW where he served as director of vehicle innovations and concept vehicles. In this role, he also led major areas of global technology scouting and acquisition as well as innovation research and management.

“Innovation and developing new-to-3M businesses are key to our growth,” said Fred Palensky, chief technology officer, 3M. “The addition of Stefan to an already strong team significantly enhances our ability to acquire and advance breakthrough technologies.”

In his new position, Gabriel will continue to be based in Munich and will travel extensively throughout the world to identify new opportunities.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 79,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.

3MMedia Contact:Jacqueline Berry, 651-733-3611orInvestor Contacts:Matt Ginter, 651-733-8206orBruce Jermeland, 651-733-1807