Ruukki Group Plc has acquired all shares of Oplax Ltd, whose main business is wooden pallet production, from Lavis Con Ltd and two individuals. Prior to this transaction Ruukki Group owned approximately 32 % of Oplax Ltd. Oplax focuses on producing wooden packages and pallets, as well as providing add-on logistical services, in its facilities in Oulu, Tornio and Kemi. Oplax's operations will continue unchanged in all its units. Moreover, Mr. Aulis Viren will remain the Managing Director of the company. Oplax will continue to put emphasis on high-quality and efficient co-operation with its customers and suppliers. Oplax Ltd's annual production reaches over one million pallets, and its use of wood is roughly 30.000 m3 per year. Oplax Ltd will be consolidated into Ruukki Group's sawmilling business segment as of March 2007. Within the sawmilling group synergy gains are seeked in the further processing of sawnwood. RUUKKI GROUP PLC Antti Kivimaa Chief Executive Officer Ruukki Group is a multi-sector industrial group having mainly majority ownership interests in various small and medium-sized companies in e.g. house building, sawmilling business, furniture business and care services. Ruukki Group share (RUG1V) is listed on OMX Nordic Exchange's so called small cap -category. For further information, please contact: Esa Hukkanen, Development Director, Ruukki Group Plc, Tel. +358 40 752 2563 Aulis Viren, Managing Director, Oplax Ltd, Tel .+358 40 565 3867