Dubai, UAE, 28 May 2008 - If anyone is asked to name a 3M product, the chances are that the response will be Scotch® Tape. After all, Scotch® Tape is one of the most widely used and recognized brands in the world today and now, this venerable product, respected throughout the globe, has received an award from an internationally respected institution and the world's largest scientific society - the American Chemical Society (ACS).

The ACS honored Scotch® Tape and 3M's innovation in adhesives at a prestigious Landmark Award ceremony held recently and presented to 3M's technical community at the 3M Carlton Society's annual awards program.

Recognizing notable achievements

An international committee of prominent chemists, chemical engineers, museum curators, and science and technology historians evaluate the nominations and grant landmark recognition to the historic achievements they deem most notable.

The committee seeks seminal scientific achievements that have stood the test of time and have had a significant impact on society. Some examples of previous award-winning achievements include the discovery of penicillin, the development of baking powder and the significance of the pH meter.

Scotch® Transparent Tape is an ideal fit. Richard Drew invented the world's first waterproof, transparent adhesive tape in 1930, revolutionizing home repairs. It is now one of the indispensable and most useful items at home and work.

A shining example of innovation

"Scotch® Tape is a classic example of 3M innovation", said Pankaj Sharma, Marketing Manager for Scotch® for the Gulf region.

"It will stick to everything, but does not stick onto itself, so avoids getting into a tangle." Pankaj said. The signature Scotch® Magic™ tape looks frosty on a roll, yet magically disappears when on paper, which makes it an ideal solution for both offices and schools."

Drew's invention catapulted 3M from a small company to a global leader in adhesive technology. It opened up new markets and led to thousands of products.

"Scotch® Tape still has tremendous growth potential worldwide," said Cheryl Moore, corporate scientist, 3M Materials Resource division. "We continue to listen to customers and translate what we hear into new Scotch® Tape products. 3M has many creative people, at all levels and in all job functions, and ideas for new products come from everywhere across the globe. This spirit of innovation is our corporate culture."

Scotch® Tape also represents 3M's commitment to the environment and over the years, new adhesive formulations have led to manufacturing processes that are increasingly easier on the environment. From every perspective, Scotch® Tape is a worthy recipient of the ACS's Landmark Award.

"This is the ultimate recognition of a timeless product and a historic scientific achievement. It is something that we can all be proud of at 3M," Sharma concluded

The ACS has officially designated the development of Scotch® Tape by 3M as a National Historic Chemical Landmark.

-Ends-

About 3M
A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M's core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms - often in combination - to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3m.com.

For further information or interview enquiries, please contact:
Jacky Freer
Manning, Selvage and Lee
Tel: +971 4 367 6152
jacky.freer@dubai.mslpr.com

Samara Ghori
Manning, Selvage and Lee
Tel: +971 4 367 6153
samara.ghori@dubai.mslpr.com

© Press Release 2008