Danaher Corporation announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to purchase Kaltenbach & Voight GmbH ("KaVo") for approximately 350 million Euro in cash ($425 million), including transaction costs and net of cash acquired. The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. KaVo, headquartered in Biberach, Germany, with 2003 revenues of approximately $450 million, is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and sale of dental equipment, including handpieces, treatment units and diagnostic systems and laboratory equipment. (www.kavo.com/en) Earnings accretion is expected to be minimal for 2004.

Danaher's President and CEO, Mr. H. Lawrence Culp, Jr. said, "The acquisition of KaVo brings a premier brand name to Danaher's newest platform, Medical Technology. The company is an excellent fit with our Gendex acquisition, completed in February, and allows us to offer a complete portfolio of equipment for dental professionals. In addition, we believe each company will benefit from strong geographic sales channel synergies. We look forward to working with the associates and management of KaVo as we continue to build on the strong foundation already established in this attractive market."

Danaher will hold a brief conference call and webcast presentation today at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the transaction. The slide presentation and webcast may be accessed at www.danaher.com. The dial-in number is 706-643-0434, reference Danaher. A telephone replay will be available by dialing 706-645-9291, ID Code 6488405. The replay will be available through Thursday, April 1. The webcast will be archived on Danaher's site for two weeks.

Danaher Corporation is a leading manufacturer of Process/Environmental Controls and Tools and Components. (www.danaher.com)

Statements in this release that are not strictly historical may be "forward-looking" statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. These include risks and uncertainties relating to customer and supplier relationships and prices, competition, market demand, litigation and other contingent liabilities, the integration and operation of acquired businesses, and economic, political, governmental and technological factors affecting the Company's operations, markets, products, services and prices, among others, as set forth in the Company's SEC filings.

SOURCE: Danaher Corporation