Russell International Makes Changes in European Operations.

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 16, 1999--

Russell Corporation (NYSE-RML) has announced that it will be moving its European headquarters to The Hague, The Netherlands, as part of its overall restructuring efforts. The management, merchandising, marketing, sourcing and planning functions will be moving to The Netherlands during the first six months of 2000.

"We believe we can better service the European market from The Netherlands as opposed to our existing office in Livingston, Scotland," said Harry de Boer, chief executive officer of Russell International. "With the announced closing of our manufacturing operations in Scotland and other changes we are making in our European operations, it is an opportune time to make this move."

Russell Europe announced in October that it would close its manufacturing facilities in Livingston and Bo'ness, Scotland, by the end of 2000 in an effort to become more competitive against other global companies now serving the United Kingdom and the Continent. The closings will eliminate approximately 300 jobs. Russell will also reorganize its European sales territories into geographical areas to provide more customized service to each area.

"All the changes we will be making over the next several months are designed to put Russell at the forefront of European athletic and activewear apparel markets," De Boer added. "We will also be in a position to offer improved products and better customer service through this restructuring."

Russell Corporation is an international apparel company specializing in activewear, casualwear and athletic uniforms. Its major brands include Russell Athletic, Jerzees and Cross Creek. The Company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol RML.