RNS Number:3881J
SSL International PLC
31 March 2003

STRATEGIC REVIEW

SSL International plc today announces the result of a detailed strategic review,
undertaken to establish the best way to create value for shareholders.


In conducting this review, the Board has been particularly aware of the
importance for the development of both the Consumer and Medical divisions, of
each receiving the required resources to be able to compete effectively in their
global markets.


The Board has concluded that it is in shareholders' interests to focus on the
Consumer division, and to realise the value of the Medical division by means of
disposal. To this end, Rothschild has commenced a disposal process on behalf of
the Group. The proceeds of disposal will be used to reduce debt and invest in
the development of the consumer business.


In accordance with its normal practice, the Group plans to issue a full trading
update for the year ending 31 March 2003 at the end of April. Sales performance
to the end of February in all business areas has been slowed by difficult market
conditions, particularly in the US and Italy, such that sales for the year are
now expected to be approximately #620 million. The planned efficiency
improvements and cost reduction programmes are proceeding on course, which will
materially mitigate the effect on group profit arising from slower sales.


The preliminary results announcement for the year ending 31st March 2003 will be
made in early June 2003, at which time an update on the disposal process
referred to above and the Group's plans for growing its core consumer business
will be given.


Commenting on today's announcements, Ian Martin, Chairman said:


"We scrutinised the Group's capabilities and opportunities in all its markets
and product areas. Our firm conclusion is that shareholders' interests would
best be served by focusing resources on driving growth in the consumer business
where SSL has two major international brands, Durex and Scholl."



FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

SSL International plc                                             020 7367 5760
Brian Buchan, Chief Executive
Garry Watts, Group Finance Director

The Maitland Consultancy                                          020 7379 5151
William Clutterbuck/Brian Hudspith





                      This information is provided by RNS
            The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
END

MSCBRGDXDUDGGXI