RNS Number:3376P
600 Group PLC
03 September 2003

                                                                3 September 2003

                           THE 600 GROUP PLC

                 CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT TO THE 2003 AGM


As anticipated in the preliminary results announcement in June, the major
machine tool markets in the western world stablised at the depressed levels
experienced last year.

However, all recent independent forecasts are indicating a gradual increase in
activity into 2004, as world trade and the US economy start to improve.

Our base load order intake during the first four periods of the year has
remained constant at the level experienced over the past two years but we have
secured several major contracts for delivery in the second half.  Consequently,
our order book is now 30% higher than at this time last year.

Following the significant cost reductions achieved over the last few years, we
have continued to realign our cost base to current market conditions.

We have continued the reduction in numbers employed across the Group (bringing
the total reduction since April 2001 to 37%), together with continuing
initiatives to improve productivity and realignments in the Group's supply chain
to ensure better value for money.

As an example, our new strategic supply and marketing alliances in the Far East
are progressing well and we expect to see increasing benefits from these
arrangements during the second half of the year.

To conclude, I would emphasise that, despite persistently difficult trading
conditions, we have maintained a strong cash position and are continuing to
manage the Group to enhance shareholder value in the medium term.



                                                                  Michael Wright
                                                                        Chairman
                                                              3rd September 2003

Enquiries:
Tony Sweeten, Group Chief Executive                 Telephone:    0113 277 6100
John Fussey, Group Finance Director

Hudson Sandler                                      Telephone:    020 7796 4133
Nick Lyon




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