ADVISORY/Dole Food Company, Inc. to Hold Groundbreaking for Luxury Wellness Center, Spa and Hotel.

City Desks/Assignment Desks

ADVISORY...for Friday (March 12)

--(BUSINESS WIRE)

    Governor Schwarzenegger to be Featured as Guest Speaker as Dole
      Chairman, President and CEO David Murdock Reveals Plans for
     World-Class Wellness Center and Spa/Hotel in Westlake Village


WHAT:    Dole Food Company, Inc., a produce industry leader in
         nutrition education and in the promotion of living healthy
         lifestyles, will celebrate the beginning of construction of
         the Dole Wellness Center, Spa and Hotel on March 12. Media
         are invited to take part in the ceremonies as Dole Chairman
         and CEO David Murdock announces the plans for the company's
         newest venture.

         The complex is designed to promote an overall wellbeing
         experience for its guests and will feature a health center, a
         deluxe 267-room five-star hotel, full-service spa and fitness
         center, as well as a conference center and state-of-the-art
         television production facility. The importance of healthful
         eating, nutrition and exercise for living a long, healthy and
         productive life will be emphasized.

         Adjoining Dole's corporate headquarters, the new complex will
         be surrounded by more than nine acres of lush gardens
         including walking/jogging paths, a waterfall and a unique
         outdoor function area. The components of the complex have
         each been designed to work together to enhance and promote
         the overall wellbeing experience.

         This unique facility will pioneer interactive information
         systems designed to benefit quality of life through a variety
         of programs designed to promote health and longevity. Expert
         physicians will provide diagnostic and preventative services
         at on-site medical facilities.

         The complex is estimated to be completed in December 2005. An
         artist rendering of the complex is available upon request.

WHO:     Speaking at the groundbreaking will be:
         --  David H. Murdock, Chairman, President and Chief Executive
             Officer of Dole
         --  California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

WHERE:   Directly across from Dole's corporate headquarters at One
         Dole Drive, off Lindero Canyon Rd. in Westlake Village,
         Calif. Valet parking will be provided.

WHEN:    Friday, March 12, 10 a.m.

TO RSVP: Registration is mandatory to attend, please contact Karen
         Tetherow at 213-623-4200, ext. 731, or Emily Killmer,
         213-623-4200, ext. 734