Zimmer Holdings, Inc. Issues Statement
WARSAW, IND. - November 22, 2002 - Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZMH) today released the following statement from Chairman, President and CEO Ray Elliott.
"We typically do not respond to rumors, but our primary responsibility is to our shareholders. Contrary to certain recent reports, we are not engaged in discussions to acquire either Centerpulse or Wright Medical Group. Consistent with our well-communicated philosophy, we would not pursue any series of acquisitions that, in the aggregate, would be highly dilutive or would negatively affect our investment grade rating."
Zimmer, based in Warsaw, Indiana, is a global leader in the design, development, manufacture and marketing of reconstructive orthopaedic implants and fracture management products. Orthopaedic reconstruction implants restore joint function lost due to disease or trauma in joints such as knees, hips, shoulders and elbows. Fracture management products are devices used primarily to reattach or stabilize damaged bone and tissue to support the body's natural healing process. Zimmer also manufactures and markets other products related to orthopaedic and general surgery. For the year 2001, Zimmer recorded worldwide revenues of approximately $1.2 billion. Zimmer was founded in 1927 and has more than 3,500 employees worldwide.
Visit Zimmer on the Worldwide Web at www.zimmer.com
Investor Contact:
Sam Leno
Chief Financial Officer
574/372-4790
sam.leno@zimmer.com
Media Contact:
Brad Bishop
Public Affairs
574/372-4291
bradley.bishop@zimmer.com
