Illinois Tool Works Decides To Keep Wilsonart

Glenview, IL, May 11, 2009--Illinois Tool Works Inc. said that it won't sell off laminate maker Wilsonart and the rest of its Decorative Services Division.

In August last year, ITW announced plans to commence the divestiture process for the marketing and possible sale of the Decorative Surfaces businesses, as these businesses witnessed a continued weak acquisition market conditions and the premium value.

Thesegment consists of the Wilsonart and a number of related worldwide laminate businesses. In 2007, the Decorative Surfaces segment had revenues of $1.2 billion and operating margins of 13%.

ITW said that the Decorative Surfaces' financial results, after included in the continuing operations portfolio, will be reflected in ITW's 2009 second quarter and will be accretive to second quarter earnings.

In June, ITW expects to provide a range of second quarter earnings contribution from these businesses.