Effective January 1, 2005, the wire and cable industry was subjected to increases in prices for polymer compound-based resins used in the manufacture of wire covering and insulating materials. These cost adjustments, implemented by the three major manufacturers of polyethylene resins, were the result of increases in basic raw material costs primarily driven by rising oil and natural gas prices.

Accordingly, Alcan Cable will implement price adjustments on covered conductor contracts based on 8.0 cents per lb. of plastic compounds. These price adjustments will be effective for all shipments on or after February 1, 2005.