Press Release

NEW YORK, Aug. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE: IPG) today announced the acquisition of DeVries Public Relations, a New York-based, full service firm specializing in marketing public relations. The agency will be part of Interpublic's Advanced Marketing Services Group (AMS) and will report directly to AMS Chairman and CEO Larry Weber. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Founded in 1978 by Madeline de Vries, the firm develops programs for blue-chip clients such as Procter & Gamble, Tupperware, Old Navy, E&J Gallo Winery, 3M, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Berlex Laboratories. The 15th largest consumer agency according to the Council of PR Firms' rankings, DeVries reported 2000 revenues of $10 million and grew more than 20% in the first half of 2001. It will retain its name and management, led by CEO Madeline de Vries, and will operate independently.

"DeVries has built its reputation as the best marketing public relations firm by creating hard-hitting campaigns for some of the world's top brands," said Larry Weber. "This strength, combined with the agency's expansion into healthcare, makes DeVries an ideal fit for Interpublic and its clients."

"We took this opportunity because it is the best way for us to consolidate our position as the leading agency specializing in marketing public relations. We have worked with many Interpublic agencies over the years and represent the same kind of worldwide brands," said Madeline de Vries. "This arrangement will allow us to keep our culture while helping us grow and giving our clients access to Interpublic's worldwide resources."

DeVries Public Relations has 60 employees and follows a unique business model, concentrating its resources on a comparatively short list of clients who are major corporations committed to public relations as a powerful marketing resource. The agency is a founder-member of the Interlink network of independently-owned agencies in Europe and Asia.

The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc., is the world's largest organization of marketing communications and marketing services companies. Its major global companies include McCann Erickson WorldGroup, The Partnership, The FCB Group and Advanced Marketing Services. The shares of Interpublic trade on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: IPG).

SOURCE The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc.

CONTACT: Madeline de Vries of DeVries Public Relations, +1-212-891-0440; or Rebecca Seel Oddsund of The Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc., +1-617-520-7009/