FNET Future

RNS Number:8651G
Future Network PLC
13 July 2001

13 July 2001

              FUTURE NETWORK COMPLETES DISPOSAL OF BUSINESS 2.0

The Future Network plc (LSE: FNET), the international specialist magazine
publisher, today announces that it has completed the disposal of its magazine
title "Business2.0" to eCompany Now Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of AOL Time
Warner Inc and member of the FORTUNE Group.  The completion follows
shareholder approval, as announced at the EGM on 2 July, and expiry of the
applicable waiting periods under the Hart Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements
Act of 1976.

In summary, the initial consideration for the disposal of the magazine title "
Business 2.0", its global brand and related conference and online activities,
is $68 million (#48.8 million) payable in cash, with additional consideration
dependent on financial performance through to the end of 2006, through the
revenue sharing agreement.

The FORTUNE Group will combine Business 2.0 with its publication eCompany Now
to create a re-designed magazine under the Business 2.0 name, with a monthly
circulation of 550,000 copies.  The combined magazine will be launched on in
September 2001.

Chris Anderson, Chairman of Future Network, commented:  "The logic for this
transaction is clearer than ever, and I am very pleased the process is now
complete.  The new Business 2.0, incorporating eCompany Now, is looking very
promising and we wish our friends at Time Inc every success as they take the
magazine forward.  It's something Future can continue to take pride in for
years to come."

Jack Haire, President of The FORTUNE Group at Time Inc., commented: "We have
been very pleased by the reaction from both readers and advertisers.  The
first combined issue, this September, will carry more than twice the number of
advertising pages that we were each carrying earlier in the year.  I believe,
that the prospects for Business 2.0's future, are even brighter."



For further information:

The Future Network plc                  Tel: 01225 442244
Greg Ingham, Chief Executive

Hogarth Partnership                     Tel: 020 7357 9477
James Longfield/Georgina Briscoe

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