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08/08/2008

Despite falling house prices and challenging times in the DIY industry, Plasti-kote, the market leading spray paint brand of the Valspar Corporation, is continuing to outperform the market and experience increased interest in its products.

GfK figures for the first six months of this year reveal that sales in the specialist paint market are down by almost 8%. However, Plasti-kote has defied this trend and reported a 0.8% increase in sales with an impressive 7.2% increase in the Colour category.

Plasti-kote believes that consumers are focusing on improving their homes rather than moving and undertaking small projects around the home, with spray paint the product of choice because of speed, flexibility and ease of use. Experts are now cautioning homeowners against carrying out expensive home improvements as they won't add value in the current market. Recent research carried out by Abbey Mortgages indicates that the only home improvements recommended by estate agents to boost house value are cosmetic ones.

Paul Silk, Head of Sales and Marketing, sees this as a real opportunity for Plasti-kote spray paint, "We invested heavily in our product in 2007, improving packaging and formulation and introducing new shades in the Colour category. We are continuing to invest in our brand and support our retailers in order to maximise sales and are looking forward to seeing the results of this throughout the remainder of 2008."

For more information contact Donna Howard on 01223 492005 or donna.howard@valspareurope.com