RNS Number:3316F
EQ Group PLC
19 December 2002

19 December 2002

                                  EQ GROUP PLC

        ACQUISITION OF QUAESTOR RESEARCH & MARKETING STRATEGISTS LIMITED

eq group plc ("eq"), the AIM listed marketing services group today announces the
acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Quaestor Research & Marketing
Strategists Limited ("Quaestor").

Quaestor, based near Leeds, is a full service agency providing both qualitative
and quantitative market research services to a range of predominantly blue chip
clients in the UK.  Services provided by Quaestor include research into
branding, media strategy, children and youth markets, customer service and
product development.

The initial consideration paid on completion amounted to #2,000,000. #1,000,000
of this has been paid in cash and the balance has been satisfied by the
allotment of 1,086,602 ordinary shares of 10 pence each in eq (the "Initial
Consideration Shares").  A further cash payment of #219,302 has been made to
reflect surplus cash in the business at completion.

Application has been made for the Initial Consideration Shares to be admitted to
AIM and dealings in such shares are expected to commence on 24th December 2002.

Additional consideration will be paid in early 2004 up to a maximum of #500,000
(satisfied equally in cash and eq shares), subject to the attainment of
performance targets. Further consideration may be paid, in early 2006, based on
cumulative profits growth over the period 2003 to 2005 inclusive.  The aggregate
consideration in respect of the transaction is capped at #4,500,000.

In the twelve months to 31 December 2001, Quaestor made audited pre-tax profits
of #303,147.   The net assets of Quaestor as at 31 December 2001 were
#1,161,753.

Commenting, Bob Bond, Chief Executive of eq group said:

"Quaestor is an established research agency with a reputation for providing high
quality,  customer-focused research. As such, it fits neatly within our growing
portfolio of well-managed, profitable companies that provide marketing
information services. We are delighted that Quaestor's existing management are
staying with the company and we expect all companies within eq group plc to gain
from Quaestor's particular expertise."

He continued:

"Quaestor is an excellent addition to the group. It demonstrates our continued
ability to attract and acquire quality businesses even during tough economic
conditions. During 2003 we will continue to adopt a highly selective approach to
acquisitions, but with a particular focus on marketing communications in the UK
and market research in mainland Europe and the United States."


For further information

eq group plc                                               Binns & Co PR Ltd
Bob Bond, Chief Executive                                  Keeley Clarke
Tel: 01422 301918 or                                       Tel: 0113 242 1171 or
     07747 032478                                               07967 816 525






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