Minova International, the global ground control division of the Orica Group today announced that it has signed a worldwide cooperation agreement in the field of ground control and geotechnics for the mining, tunnelling and civil engineering markets with Atlas Copco.

The synergies between the companies will allow customers to benefit from a comprehensive offer of geotechnical solutions.

As a result of this agreement, Minova customers will have access to the Atlas Copco rockbolting products, including the world leading Swellex® inflatable bolts.  Atlas Copco customers will benefit from the extensive Minova range of rockbolts, resins, grouts and associated equipment.  Both Atlas Copco and Minova brands will continue.

Both mining and civil engineering customers will now benefit from being able to source the world’s most comprehensive range of ground control products – thus providing them with a one stop shop for all ground control requirements.

“I believe this relationship between Atlas Copco and Minova is a major step forward in providing a complete rock bolting solution to our customers in underground mining and underground civil engineering.

"This further underlines Minova’s strategy to provide a total solution package through its combined steel and resin business.” said Michael Reich, CEO Minova International.

For further information please contact:

John Fetter, Group Manager – Corporate Affairs

Phone: +61 (0)3 9665 7870

john.fetter@orica.com

Marek Grocholewski, General Manager Tunnelling

Phone: +49 201 172 1657

marek.grocholewski@MinovaInt.com