Sigma-Aldrich 2003 EPS Expectation Increased to $2.60 to $2.65, Reflecting Benefits from Currency, Sales Initiatives and Process Improvements.

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Sigma-Aldrich 2003 EPS Expectation Increased to $2.60 to $2.65, Reflecting Benefits from Currency, Sales Initiatives and Process Improvements.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

BIOWIRE2K

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 22, 2003

Sigma-Aldrich Corporation (NASDAQ:SIAL):

HIGHLIGHTS:

Continuing Operations:

-- Reported and currency adjusted sales in Q1 2003 increased

11.0% and 2.5%, respectively.

-- Scientific Research and Biotechnology growth in currency

adjusted sales comparable with Q4 2002, but partially offset

by declines in Fine Chemicals sales to U.S. customers.

-- Diluted EPS for Q1 increased 17.2% to $.68.

-- New sales and marketing initiatives are expected to boost

currency adjusted sales growth in the upcoming quarters of

2003. Diluted EPS estimate for 2003 increased from earlier

guidance to a range of $2.60 to $2.65.

Financial Condition:

-- Return on equity improved to 19.9% at March 31, 2003, largely

achieving the Company's 20% goal more than one year earlier

than initially projected.

-- Working capital management continued to reduce accounts

receivable days sales outstanding and inventory mont...