Imerys Announces Sharp Improvement in 2010 Results

By Imerys, PRNE
Monday, February 14, 2011

PARIS, February 15, 2011 -

    - Organic Growth(1) in Sales + 15%



    - Operating Margin Target Achieved: 12.5%

    - Net Income From Current Operations Doubled to 240 MEUR

    - Current Free Operating Cash Flow Over 300 MEUR

    - + 20% Growth in Dividend Proposed at Shareholders' General
      Meeting: EUR1.20 per Share

On Tuesday, February 15, 2011, the Board of Directors of
Imerys, meeting under the chairmanship of Aimery Langlois-Meurinne, examined
the definitive financial statements for 2010 as presented by CEO Gerard
Buffiere
. The statements will be submitted for approval at the General
Meeting on April 28, 2011.

    Consolidated results (EUR millions)        2010     2009 % current change

    Sales                                   3 346.7  2 773.7          + 20.7%
    Current operating income(2)               419.0    248.9          + 68.4%
                            Operating margin  12.5%     9.0%     + 3.5 points
    Net income from current operations,       240.3    119.3         + 101.6%
    Group share(3)
    Net income, Group share                   240.8     41.3             n.s.

    Financing

    Current free operating cash flow(4)       303.1    450.3          - 32.7%

    Booked capital expenditure                169.1    118.7          + 42.5%

    Shareholders' equity                    2 196.4  1 855.8          + 18.4%

    Net financial debt                        872.8    964.3           - 9.5%

    Data per share (euros)

    Net income from current operations,
    Group share (3)(5)                      EUR3.19  EUR1.66          + 92.6%

    Proposed dividend                       EUR1.20  EUR1.00          + 20.0%
    (1) At comparable Group structure and exchange rates.
    (2) Operating income, before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (3) Group share of net income before other operating revenue and
        expenses.
    (4) Current free operating cash flow: EBITDA deducted from notional
        notional tax, changes in working capital requirement and paid
        capital expenditure.
    (5) The average weighted number of outstanding shares (adjusted
        following the rights issue of June 2nd, 2009) was 75,405,857 vs.
        72,054,523 in 2009.

Gerard Buffiere commented, "In 2010 Imerys' markets grew
sharply. However, part of that growth results from our customers' inventory
rebuilding, especially activities serving industrial equipment markets. Our
operating indicators reflect that upturn with current operating income and
margin returning to 2008 levels. We have resumed our external growth policy,
as seen in our acquisition of the Brazilian company Para Pigmentos S.A. in
July 2010. The Group's financial health will enable it to take advantage of
the opportunities that arise. The Board of Directors is showing that
confidence in the future by proposing a dividend of EUR1.20 per share at the
next General Meeting, in line with the Group's historical distribution
policy."

ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

In 2010, Imerys' markets evolved favorably but remain
significantly below pre-crisis volumes (approx. - 15%). The euro weakened in
relation to the dollar for part of 2010. The Group benefited from this, not
only through the translation of dollar sales into euros but also through the
improved competitiveness of its customers (industrial equipment manufacturers
and paper makers, etc.).

Steel production increased significantly, thanks to the
dynamism of emerging zones. Trends were positive in the United States and, to
a lesser extent, Europe.

Global production of printing and writing paper rose + 6% in
2010 compared with the previous year.

Demand remains stable overall in fast-moving consumer goods
(beverages, edible oils, personal care products, etc.).

Construction picked up only slightly in Europe, although
positive advance indicators (housing sales, building permits) are being
published in France. In the United States, the sector has remained at a very
low level for the past 18 months.

EVENTS AFTER DECEMBER 31, 2010

The annual consolidated financial statements as of December
31, 2010
were closed by the Board of Directors at its meeting on February 15,
2011
. No significant event after the end of the period is to be reported.

OUTLOOK

The Group's economic environment in 2011 can currently be
analyzed as follows:

    - The construction market in France should improve gradually
      if, as can be expected, building permits reflect housing starts, from
      the second half of the year;
    - The US situation is more uncertain: single-family housing
      construction is likely to remain very low even if industrial activity
      trends appear healthier overall, as steel output suggests;
    - European markets other than construction could evolve
      favorably if the euro remains competitive in relation to the dollar;
    - Emerging countries are likely to continue growing;
    - Cost inflation and currency volatility risks exist.

In that context, unless a major macro-economic event occurs,
Imerys should continue its growth, helped by the development efforts made in
recent years. That growth will nevertheless be assessed in relation to 2010,
which benefited from inventory rebuilding, a significant, non-recurring
event. Moreover, the Group has the financial resources to seize the
value-creating opportunities that arise.

DIVIDEND

Showing its confidence in the Group's prospects, at the Shareholders'
General Meeting on April 28, 2011, the Board of Directors will propose a +
20% increase in dividends to EUR1.20 per share. The dividend would be paid
out from May 11, 2011 for a total amount of approximately EUR90.6 million,
which represents 37.7% of the Group's share of net income from current
operations.

DETAILED COMMENTARY ON THE GROUP'S RESULTS

SALES

                    Sales      Change in sales   Comparable    of   of which
                                 (% previous     change in   which  Price/Mix
                (EUR millions)      year)        sales(1)    Volume  effect
                                                (% previous  effect
                                                   year)
       2010        3 346.7         + 20.7%        + 15.0%   + 13.1%   + 1.9%

       2009        2 773.7         - 19.6%        - 19.9%   - 23.8%   + 3.9%
                   2010    2009 sales Change in Comparable   of   of which
                   sales                sales   change(1)  which  Price/Mix
                              (EUR       (%         (%     Volume  effect
                   (EUR    millions)  previous   previous  effect
                 millions)              year)     year)
    1st
    quarter(2)     751.6     694.3      + 8.2%    + 9.5%   + 7.6%  + 1.9%
    2nd
    quarter(2)     871.4     679.7     + 28.2%   + 22.7%  + 20.8%  + 1.9%
    3rd
    quarter(2)     892.2     703.7     + 26.8%   + 16.7%  + 14.5%  + 2.2%
    4th
    quarter(2)     831.5     696.1     + 19.5%   + 11.1%   + 9.4%  + 1.7%
    - Firm business all year long
    - Significant growth in sales volumes: up + 13%
    - Highly favorable exchange rate effect in second half

Sales for financial 2010 totaled EUR3,346.7 million, up + 20.7% from
2009. This increase factors in:

    - A Group structure effect of + EUR23.9 million, chiefly resulting from
      the acquisition of the Brazilian company Para Pigmentos S.A (PPSA),
      consolidated from August 1, 2010, and the divestment of Planchers Fabre
      (France, May 2009),
    - A foreign exchange effect of + EUR134.0 million, which intensified in
      the 2nd half due to the euro's depreciation against other currencies on
      average, in 2010 compared with 2009.

At comparable Group structure and exchange rates, the increase in sales
(+ 15.0% vs. 2009) reflects the overall upturn in sales volumes (+ 13.1%) in
all four business groups. The upturn was sharper for those that had been most
affected by the crisis and inventory reductions in 2009. The price/mix
component rose + 1.9% over the year.

The sharp rise in 4th quarter sales (+ 19.5%) should not be extrapolated
into early 2011 as it includes a significant currency translation effect (+
5.9%).

At comparable Group structure and exchange rates, 4th quarter sales are
slightly lower than in the second and third quarters, reflecting the end of
restocking as well as adverse weather for Building Materials activities in
particular.

Sales by geographic destination

                          2010 sales    % change    % consolidated
                        (EUR millions)  vs. 2009        sales 2010

    Western Europe           1 601.2     + 11.6%              48%
      of which France          561.4     + 0.0 %              17%
    United States /
    Canada                     685.4     + 25.5%              21%
    Japan / Australia          169.3     + 28.2%               5%
    Emerging
    countries                  890.8     + 34.9%              26%
    Total                    3 346.7     + 20.7%             100%

Every geographic zone benefited from the upturn in business.
Sales growth in North America reflects the firmness of the US dollar against
the euro in particular. In emerging countries, sales grew sharply in China,
Brazil and India, with recent industrial investments a major driving force.

CURRENT OPERATING INCOME(3)(4)

    (EUR millions)      2010     2009    % change   % comparable
                                                     change(5)
    1er quarter         84.1     44.4     + 89.4%     + 101.4%
    Operating margin   11.2%     6.4%
    2nd quarter        123.2     65.6     + 87.8%      + 90.0%
    Operating margin   14.1%     9.6%
    3rd quarter        115.1     69.8     + 65.0%      + 63.7%
    Operating margin   12.9%     9.9%
    4th quarter        96.6      69.1     + 39.8%      + 35.3%
    Operating margin   11.6%     9.9%
    Year               419.0     248.9    + 68.4%      + 69.5%
    Operating margin   12.5%     9.0%
    - Good contribution from volumes
    - More than half the savings made in 2009 carried over into 2010

Beyond the limited effects of Group structure and foreign exchange (-
EUR3.0 million and + EUR0.2 million, respectively) at comparable Group
structure and exchange rates, current operating income increased by +
EUR172.9 million compared with 2009. It takes into account the substantial
contribution of sales volumes (+ EUR161.4 million). The product price/mix
effect was favorable (+ EUR27.0 million) and the Group recorded an overall
decrease in variable costs (- EUR22.3 million), particularly energy bills.
Fixed production costs and general expenses remained under control (+ EUR74.3
million
). More than half the savings achieved in 2009 (EUR157.8 million) were
carried over into 2010, in line with the upturn in volumes (labor costs,
maintenance).

In the 4th quarter of 2010, the operating margin (11.6%) was impacted by
adverse weather conditions in France, the United Kingdom and the United
States
, which disrupted operating conditions and weighed on the activity mix
(drop in construction-related segments in particular).

At 12.5%, the Group's operating margin gained 3.5 points in 2010 compared
with 2009.

NET INCOME FROM CURRENT OPERATIONS(6)

Up + 101.6% to EUR240.3 million, net income from current operations
reflects:

    - The sharp rise in current operating income;

    - The improvement in current financial income to - EUR74.7 million (-
      EUR83.4 million in 2009) that includes, in particular:
      - Interest expense of - EUR57.3 million (vs. - EUR69.1 million in
        2009), reflecting the decrease in average debt from the same period
        the previous year;
      - A foreign exchange loss of - EUR4.4 million (- EUR5.8 million in
        2009);
      - Unwinding of long-term provisions (- EUR3.4 million) and net
        financial expense with respect to pensions (- EUR2.8 million);
      - Other financial income/expense (- EUR6.8 million), including a -
        EUR6.4 million charge on financial instruments.

    - A tax charge of - EUR99.5 million (- EUR46.2 million in 2009), i.e. an
      effective tax rate of 28.9%, compared with 27.9% in 2009.

NET INCOME

The + EUR199.5 million increase in net income, Group share to EUR240.8
million
takes into account other income and expense, net of tax (+ EUR0.5
million
), including in particular the following items, net of tax:

    - Badwill on the acquisition of PPSA, net of acquisition costs (expenses,
      restructuring) for a total of EUR40.2 million;

    - Non-recurring financial income resulting from the recording in the 1st
      half of 2010 of a non-recurring foreign exchange gain of + EUR6.7
      million, following the restructuring of the financing of the Group's US
      subsidiaries (i.e. + EUR10.2 million before tax);

    - Provisions for restructuring and asset depreciation for a total amount
      of - EUR30.7 million (corresponding in particular to the closure of the
      Imerys Kiln Furniture site in Spain; in China, withdrawal from
      Vermiculite activities and depreciation of mining rights);

    - Depreciation expense for site remediation for - EUR14.2 million: the
      review of the environmental situations of the Group's industrial sites,
      carried out in 2010, led to the booking of additional long-term
      provisions.

CASH FLOW

    (EUR millions)                        2010         2009

    EBITDA                               621.0        416.6
    Change in operating working capital  (45.7)       235.3
    Paid capital expenditure            (154.9)      (138.4)
    Free current operating cash flow*    303.1        450.3
    Paid financial expense (net of tax)  (46.6)       (50.4)
    Other working capital items           17.7         42.1
    Current free cash flow               274.2        442.0

    * including subsidies, value of
      divested assets and miscellaneous    3.7          6.3
    - Management of working capital requirement
    - Free current operating cash flow over 300 MEUR

Operating working capital requirement rose + EUR45.7 million,
in line with the increase in sales (+ 20.7%). Working capital, therefore,
represents 21.8% of 4th quarter sales on an annual basis. Excluding the
effect of receivables factoring for EUR71 million(7) , as on December 31,
2010
that ratio works out at 23.8% (vs. 24.9% as on December 31, 2009).

Booked capital expenditure totaled EUR169.1 million, compared with
EUR118.7 million in 2009. This represents 79% of depreciation expense (vs.
65% in 2009) and was mainly intended for industrial facility maintenance and
industrial tools and overburden operations.

FINANCIAL STRUCTURE

    EUR millions                December 31,       June 30,   December 31,
                                       2010           2010           2009

    Paid dividends                    (76.3)         (76.0)         (63.6)
    Net debt                          872.8          990.1          964.3
    Shareholders' equity            2,196.4        2,140.5        1,855.8
    EBITDA                            621.0          319.2          416.6
    Net debt / shareholders' equity    39.7%          46.3%          52.0%

    Net debt / EBITDA                   1.4x           1.9x           2.3x

Consolidated net financial debt, at EUR872.8 million, was
reduced by approximately EUR92 million in 2010. This change takes into
account the following items:

    - High current free cash flow at EUR274.2 million;

    - Payment, on May 11, 2010, of EUR75.5 million in dividends,
      plus EUR0.8 million in dividends paid to minority shareholders in
      subsidiaries;

    - The acquisition of Para Pigmentos S.A. (PPSA)(8) and
      mining rights in Para state (Brazil), for a total amount of EUR54.1
      million.

As on December 31, 2010, Imerys' total financial resources are almost
EUR2.2 billion, with no significant repayments due until late 2012. The
average maturity of financial resources is 3.8 years.

COMMENTARY BY BUSINESS GROUP

Minerals for Ceramics, Refractories, Abrasives & Foundry

(32% of consolidated sales)

    (EUR millions)                     2010     2009   Current   Comparable
                                                        change     change(9)
    Sales                           1 105.0    794.5    + 39.1%     + 35.2%
    Current operating income(10)      134.6     44.0   + 206.4%    + 213.3%
                  Operating margin     12.2%     5.5%
    Booked capital expenditure         63.0     46.0    + 37.0%
    - Firm activity on most end markets
    - 2nd and 3rd quarter sales driven by heavy inventory rebuilding

Minerals for Refractories and Abrasives (steel, automotive, industrial
equipment) and Graphite (mobile energy, etc.) markets were heavily affected
by the global economic crisis in 2009. In 2010, they benefited from the clear
upturn in end demand and an inventory rebuilding effect that lasted until the
end of the 3rd quarter.

To meet the increase in global demand for high quality refractory
minerals, development capital expenditure resumed in andalusite (refractory
mineral for steel, aluminum, cement and glass production). The business group
opened a new conversion unit close to its reserve in China. Production
capacities were extended in South Africa.

The upturn in demand was more moderate on Minerals for Ceramics markets,
with construction in developed countries growing only slightly. However,
business is developing in new segments (electro-porcelain, glass fiber) and
extending into emerging economies.

Sales, at EUR1,105.0 million for financial 2010, rose + 39.1% from
financial 2009 (which was down - 31.5% from 2008). An analysis of the
variance shows:

    - A Group structure effect for - EUR0.9 million,

    - Substantial exchange rate impact at + EUR31.9 million.

Driven by the sharp rise in volumes, sales also increased due to higher
relative growth in value-added products.

With a threefold increase from 2009, current operating income, at
EUR134.6 million, includes a + EUR0.1 million Group structure effect and a -
EUR3.2 million foreign exchange impact.

At comparable Group structure and exchange rates, the rise in sales
volumes had a very positive effect despite an increase in fixed production
costs. The product price/mix evolved favorably and variable costs were down
slightly from the previous year.

Performance & Filtration Minerals

(17% of consolidated sales)

    (EUR millions)                   2010   2009    Current    Comparable
                                                    change     change(11)
    Sales                           594.7  500.7    + 18.8%      + 11.7%
    Current operating income(12)     64.8   26.9   + 141.1%     + 117.3%
                  Operating margin   10.9%   5.4%
    Booked capital expenditure       26.8   10.7   + 150.5%
    - Contrasting underlying markets with significant inventory rebuilding
    - Improved productivity in the United States

In 2010, most of the business group's end markets reported an improvement
in demand and some inventory rebuilding by customers and distributors. Growth
was higher in fast-moving consumer goods (beverages, edible oils, personal
care products, etc.) and specialty products for industry (plastics, rubber,
filtration, catalyst, etc.). However, while the construction sector grew
slowly in Europe, no improvement could be seen in the United States.

The industrial optimization plan for the Minerals for
Filtration activity in the United States, particularly the renovation of the
Lompoc (California), diatomite plant, enabled the business group to serve
demand effectively in 2010. Mining operations returned to normal.

Sales totaled EUR594.7 million for 2010 (+ 18.8%). This increase includes
a foreign exchange impact of + EUR35.5 million and a Group structure effect
of - EUR0.3 million. At comparable structure and exchange rates, the rise in
sales reflects the significant upturn in volumes, partly resulting from
inventory rebuilding.

At EUR64.8 million, current operating income rose + EUR37.9
million
. It factors in a favorable foreign exchange effect of + EUR6.4
million
. At comparable structure and exchange rates, the increase was +
EUR31.5 million. The sharp upturn in volumes came with a correlated increase
in fixed production costs and general expenses. Income also reflects the
decrease in variable costs and the firm price/mix component.

Pigments for Paper

(23% of consolidated sakes)

    (EUR millions)                  2010   2009    Current   Comparable
                                                   change    change(11)
    Sales                          767.1  631.9    + 21.4%      + 9.8%
    Current operating income(12)    76.0   41.6    + 82.8%    + 101.0%
                 Operating margin    9.9%   6.6%
    Booked capital expenditure      60.6   32.5    + 86.5%
    - Sharp upturn in paper production in mature countries
    - Start-up of new units in China and India, acquisition of PPSA in Brazil

Global production of printing and writing paper, which had
slumped heavily in 2009, gradually recovered in 2010 (+ 6.1%) with printers
and distributors rebuilding their paper inventories.

Demand was robust in emerging countries (+ 5.7%) and picked up strongly
in mature countries (+ 6.5%). Moreover, European papermakers benefited from
better competitiveness thanks to the euro's depreciation against the dollar.
The European paper sector carries on consolidating.

The business group continued its strategic development in 2010. The
Yueyang precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) plant (Hunan province, China),
commissioned in the 2nd quarter under a joint venture, is now fully
operational.

In the 2nd half of the year, the business group also acquired
the Brazilian company Para Pigmentos S.A. (PPSA) and mining rights in Para
state. This enabled Imerys to increase its reserves of kaolin for paper and
packaging and enhance its industrial and logistical assets (pipeline and port
terminal). Integration has been progressing according to the acquisition plan
since August 1.

Sales, at EUR767.1 million in 2010, rose + 21.4%., particularly taking
into account:

    - A highly favorable foreign exchange effect of + EUR42.0 million,

    - A + EUR31.4 million structure effect (acquisition of PPSA, Brazil,
      consolidated from August 1, 2010)

At comparable structure and exchange rates, sales growth mainly reflects
the substantial rise in volumes, resulting from:

    - The dollar's depreciation against the euro, which benefited European
      paper producers.

    - The success of new products intended for the packaging segment
      (extra-flat kaolins in the 'Barrisurf(TM)' and 'E-Type(TM)' ranges).

    - The opening of new production capacities in India and China.

Current operating income totaled EUR76.0 million in 2010 (+
EUR34.4 million), including a - EUR5.3 million foreign exchange impact and a
- EUR2.2 million structure effect. At comparable structure and exchange
rates, the business group's operating performance benefited from higher sales
volumes and from productivity efforts. Trends in the price/mix component and
variable costs were also healthy.

Materials and Monolithics

(28% of consolidated sales)

    (EUR millions)                   2010    2009     Current    Comparable
                                                      change     change(13)

    Sales                           922.6   875.6     + 5.4%       + 3.1%
    Current operating income(14)    187.5   168.0    + 11.6%      + 10.7%
                  Operating margin   20.3%   19.2%
    Booked capital expenditure       14.0    27.3    - 48.7%
    - Healthy advanced indicators for new housing in France
    - Adverse weather conditions in 1st quarter and in December
    - Firm activity in Monolithic Refractories

In France, the improvement in building permits observed for
several quarters was not reflected in new housing starts until late 2010 with
a + 1.7% rise(15) for the year.

Renovation was heavily hit by unfavorable weather in January, February
and December and fell slightly over the year.

In that context, the clay products market recorded a - 2%(16) decrease
in roofing components from the previous year. In the structure segment,
however, growth was strong (+ 11%(16)) thanks to the ongoing substitution of
clay for concrete.

Monolithic Refractories markets benefited from the upturn in steelmaking
and, more generally, industrial activity, which remained firm throughout the
year. The cement, incineration and petrochemicals segments, which held out
better in 2009, grew slightly. New furnace construction projects remain few.

In 2010, capital expenditure was limited to maintenance, industrial
assets having been upgraded in recent years. Furthermore, the Cuntis (Spain),
Kiln Furniture plant was closed.

Up + 5.4% from 2009, the business group's 2010 sales (EUR922.6 million)
takes into account:

    - Structure effect of - EUR6.4 million (divestment of Planchers Fabre -
      France, May 2009);

    - Foreign exchange impact of + EUR26.4 million.

At comparable structure and exchange rates, firm business in Monolithic
Refractories offsets lower sales volumes in Building Materials.

Current operating income was EUR187.5 million (up + EUR19.5 million from
2009). It includes a - EUR0.8 million structure effect and a + EUR2.3 million
foreign exchange impact. At comparable structure and exchange rates, strict
cost management offsets the lower relative contribution of Building
Materials.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

As announced on June 9, 2010, Mr. Gilles Michel joined the Imerys group
at the end of September 2010. He was appointed Director and Deputy Chief
Executive Officer on November 3, 2010. Following the Shareholders' General
Meeting of April 28, 2011, subject to confirmatory approval of his
appointment as Director, the Board of Directors intends to change the
Company's governance structure. The duties of Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer would be assigned to Mr. Gilles Michel. The Board of Directors
decided to propose at the General Meeting to renew the directorships of Mr.
Aimery Langlois-Meurinne and Mr. Gerard Buffiere. In line with the
recommendations of the French Securities Commission (Autorite des Marches
Financiers), and according to the best practice of French listed companies,
the Board would offer Mr. Langlois-Meurinne the position of Deputy Chairman
as Referent Director (Administrateur Referent)".

At the next Shareholders' General Meeting, the Board of Directors will
also propose the renewal of terms of office of Mr. Aldo Cardoso, Mr.
Maximilien de Limburg Stirum and Mr. Jacques Veyrat as Directors and the
appointment of Mrs. Arielle Malard de Rothschild as a new Director for the
purposes, in particular, of increasing the proportion of women on the Board
following the appointment of Mrs. Fatine Layt in 2010.

Analysts' meeting

The press release is available from the Group's website
www.imerys.com, with access via the homepage in the "Press releases"
section.

Imerys is holding a presentation meeting at 6:30pm today at
Maison des Arts & Metiers (9 bis avenue d'Iena, 75116 Paris, France) at which
the financial 2010 results will be commented on. This conference will be
webcasted live on the Group's website www.imerys.com.

Financial communication agenda

    - 1st quarter 2011 results and Shareholders' General Meeting: April 28,
      2011;

    - 1st half 2011 results: July 29, 2011;

    - 3rd quarter 2011 results: November 3, 2011.

These dates are given for guidance only and may be updated on
the Group's website at www.imerys.com in the section Investors &
Analysts / Financial Agenda.

The world leader in adding value to minerals, Imerys is active
in 47 countries through more than 240 industrial and commercial sites. The
Group achieved more than EUR3.3 billion in sales in 2010. Imerys develops
solutions that improve its customers' product performance and manufacturing
efficiency, thanks to minerals it mines and processes from reserves with rare
qualities. The Group's products have a great many applications in everyday
life, including construction, personal care, paper, paint, plastic, ceramics,
telecommunications, beverage, filtration, etc.

More comprehensive information about Imerys may be obtained from its
Internet website (www.imerys.com) under Regulated Information,
particularly in its Registration Document filed with Autorite des marches
financiers on April 1, 2010 under number D.10-0205 (also available from the
Autorite des marches financiers website, www.amf-france.org). Imerys
draws the attention of investors to chapter 4, "Risk Factors", of its
Registration Document.

Warning on projections and forward-looking statements: This document
contains projections and other forward-looking statements. Investors are
cautioned that such projections and forward-looking statements are subject to
various risks and uncertainties (many of which are difficult to predict and
generally beyond the control of Imerys) that could cause actual results and
developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied.

    ---------------------------------
    (1)  At comparable Group structure and exchange rates.
    (2)  Non-audited quarterly data.
    (3)  Operating income, before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (4)  Non-audited quarterly data.
    (5)  At comparable Group structure and exchange rates.
    (6)  Net income (loss), Group share, before other operating income and
         expense, net.
    (7)  Factoring contract signed on July 23, 2009 under which transferred
         receivables are deconsolidated, with the risks and benefits related
         to receivables transferred to the factor bank. EUR83 million in
         receivables were factored as on December 31, 2009.
    (8)  Acquisition of 100% of the shares of the company in 2010.
    (9)  At comparable Group structure and exchange rates.
    (10) Operating income, before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (11) At comparable structure and exchange rates.
    (12) Operating income, before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (13) At comparable structure and exchange rates.
    (14) Operating income, before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (15) Source: New single-family housing starts - French Ministry of
         Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transports and Housing.
    (16) Source: FFTB (French roof tiles & bricks federation) - provisional
         data.
                                   2010 RESULTS

                                    Appendix(1)

    1. Consolidated sales breakdown

    Change in consolidated sales      %          %        %         %
                                   current   structure foreign  comparable
                                    change    effect   exchange change(2)
                                                        effect
    Imerys Group                   + 20.7%    + 0.8%   + 4.9%    + 15.0%

    Comparable quarterly change(2)  Q1 '10    Q2 '10   Q3 '10     Q4 '10
    2010 vs. 2009                   + 9.5%   + 22.7%  + 16.7%    + 11.1%

    2009 vs. 2008 (reminder)        Q1 '09    Q2 '09   Q3 '09     Q4 '09
                                   - 23.8%   - 26.0%  - 20.9%     - 7.6%
    Quarterly        Q4    Q4 Current  Compar   2010    2009  Current  Compar
    change by      2010  2009  change  -able                   change   -able
    business                          change(2)                        change
    group                                                                (2)  

    Minerals
     for
     Ceramics,
     Refractories,
     Abrasives &
     Foundry      279.6 215.6 + 29.7% + 26.3% 1 105.0   794.5 + 39.1% + 35.2%
    Performance &
     Filtration
     Minerals     138.3 122.0 + 13.3%  + 4.0%   594.7   500.7 + 18.8% + 11.7%
    Pigments for
     Paper        201.4 160.1 + 25.7%  + 5.4%   767.1   631.9 + 21.4%  + 9.8%
    Materials &
     Monolithics  221.2 211.4  + 4.6%  + 1.3%   922.6   875.6  + 5.4%  + 3.1%
    Total sales
     after
     holdings &
     eliminations 831.5 696.1 + 19.5% + 11.1% 3 346.7 2 773.7 + 20.7% + 15.0%
    Quarterly change   Q1 10    Q2 10   H1 10   Q3 10   Q4 10   H2 10   2010

    Imerys Group -    + 8.2%  + 28.2% + 18.1% + 26.8% + 19.5% + 23.1% + 20.7%
    Current change

    Imerys Group -    + 9.5%  + 22.7% + 16.0% + 16.8% + 11.1% + 13.9% + 15.0%
    Comparable change
    of which:

    Minerals for
     Ceramics,
     Refractories,
     Abrasives &
     Foundry         + 28.6%  + 48.2% + 38.4% + 38.7% + 26.3% + 32.2% + 35.2%
    Performance &
     Filtration
     Minerals        + 19.9%  + 17.2% + 18.5%  + 6.4%  + 4.0%  + 5.2% + 11.7%
    Pigments for
     Paper            + 7.1%  + 17.2% + 12.0%  + 9.8%  + 5.4%  + 7.6%  + 9.8%
    Materials &
    Monolithics       - 8.4%  + 10.2%  + 0.6%  + 9.7%  + 1.3%  + 5.6%  + 3.1%
    Sales by business group                          2010   2009
    Minerals for Ceramics, Refractories, Abrasives
     & Foundry                                        32%    28%
    Performance & Filtration Minerals                 17%    18%
    Pigments for Paper                                23%    23%
    Materials & Monolithics                           28%    31%
    Total                                            100%   100%

Sales by geographic destination

    (EUR millions)       2010 sales     % Current         %             %
                                           change  consolidated  consolidated
                                    2010 vs. 2009    sales 2010    sales 2009
    Western Europe          1 601.2       + 11.6%           48%           52%
    USA / Canada              685.4       + 25.5%           21%           19%
    Japan / Australia         169.3       + 28.2%            5%            5%
    Emerging                  890.8       + 34.9%           26%           24%
    countries
    Total                   3 346.7       + 20.7%          100%          100%

2. Key figures

    (EUR millions)           Q4 2010 Q4 2009  Change H2 2010 H2 2009  Change

    Sales                      831.5   696.1 + 19.5% 1 723.7 1 399.7 + 23.1%
    Current operating income
    (3)                         96.6    69.1 + 39.8%   211.7   138.9 + 52.5%
    Current financial income
    (expense)                  (22.8)  (24.3)          (42.5)  (38.5)
    Current taxes              (21.6)  (12.4)          (48.7)  (27.5)
    Minority interests          (0.7)   (0.4)           (2.2)   (0.3)
    Net income from current
    operations(4)               51.4    32.0 + 60.8%   118.3    72.6 + 63.0%
    Other operating revenue
    and expenses, net            3.1   (24.4)            3.4   (43.0)
    Net income (loss)(4)        54.5     7.6    n.a.   121.7    29.6    n.a.

    (1) Non-audited quarterly information.
    (2) At comparable Group structure and exchange rates.
    (3) Operating income before other operating revenue and expenses.
    (4) Group share.

APPENDIX Imerys - Summary financial statements as on December 31, 2010

The Board of Directors met on February 15, 2011 to close the 2010
financial statements. Audit procedures were carried out and audit reports are
being issued.

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

    (EUR millions)                                          2010        2009

    Revenue                                              3,346.7     2,773.7
    Current revenue and expenses                        (2,927.7)   (2,524.8)
    Raw materials and consumables used                  (1,178.6)   (1,026.1)
    External expenses                                     (849.5)     (674.9)
    Staff expenses                                        (635.6)     (587.1)
    Taxes and duties                                       (41.6)      (42.6)
    Amortization, depreciation and impairment losses      (213.0)     (181.4)
    Other current revenue and expenses                     (15.1)      (12.6)
    Share in net income of associates                        5.7        (0.1)
    Current operating income                               419.0       248.9
    Other operating revenue and expenses                   (12.4)      (87.1)
    Gain or loss from obtaining or losing control           40.9         4.3
    Other non-recurring items                              (53.3)      (91.4)
    Operating income                                       406.6       161.8
    Net financial debt expense                             (57.3)      (69.1)
    Income from securities                                   2.7         2.2
    Gross financial debt expense                           (60.0)      (71.3)
    Other financial revenue and expenses                    (7.2)      (14.3)
    Other financial revenue                                212.1       121.1
    Other financial expenses                              (219.3)     (135.4)
    Financial income (loss)(1)                             (64.5)      (83.4)
    Income taxes                                           (96.8)      (37.1)
    Net income                                             245.3        41.3
    Net income, Group share(2)                             240.8        41.3
    Net income, share of non-controlling interests           4.5           -

    (1) A foreign exchange gain of + EUR10.2 million realized in the 1st half
        of 2010 as a consequence of a restructuring of financings of
        businesses in US Dollar presents a non-recurring and significant
        character. This foreign exchange gain is classified in "Other net
        operating revenue and expenses, Group share" so as to stress its
        non-recurring and significant character. The current financial income
        (loss) included in the "Net income from current operations, Group
        share" (that measures the recurring performance of the Group) thus
        amounts to - EUR74.7 million.

    (2) Net income per share (in EUR)                       2010        2009

        Basic net income per share                          3.19        0.57
        Diluted net income per share                        3.19        0.57

Imerys - Summary financial statements as on December 31, 2010

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

    (EUR millions)                                          2010        2009

    Non-current assets                                   2,936.9     2,740.5
    Goodwill                                               950.4       897.5
    Intangible assets                                       34.6        43.8
    Mining assets                                          453.5       377.2
    Property, plant and equipment                        1,287.6     1,224.1
    Investments in associates                               54.4        50.0
    Available-for-sale financial assets                      7.4         7.5
    Other financial assets                                  33.7        23.2
    Other receivables                                       45.0        43.7
    Derivative financial assets                             24.8        17.6
    Deferred tax assets                                     45.5        55.9
    Current assets                                       1,489.9     1,190.8
    Inventories                                            545.1       440.5
    Trade receivables                                      446.5       364.4
    Other receivables                                      128.0       110.7
    Derivative financial assets                             12.2         5.0
    Marketable securities and other financial assets         6.0         5.6
    Cash and cash equivalents                              352.1       264.6
    Consolidated assets                                  4,426.8     3,931.3

    Equity, Group share                                  2,169.5     1,836.9
    Capital                                                151.0       150.8
    Premiums                                               338.4       339.4
    Reserves                                             1,439.3     1,305.4
    Net income, Group share                                240.8        41.3
    Equity, share of non-controlling interests              26.9        18.9
    Equity                                               2,196.4     1,855.8
    Non-current liabilities                              1,408.4     1,388.9
    Provisions for employee benefits                        94.7       103.9
    Other provisions                                       189.6       157.7
    Loans and financial debts                            1,016.8     1,037.7
    Other debts                                             10.2         9.5
    Derivative financial liabilities                        15.3        16.5
    Deferred tax liabilities                                81.8        63.6
    Current liabilities                                    822.0       686.6
    Other provisions                                        14.4        18.6
    Trade payables                                         317.1       260.7
    Income taxes payable                                    25.1        20.6
    Other debts                                            239.8       185.7
    Derivative financial liabilities                         1.4         2.9
    Loans and financial debts                              219.5       186.0
    Bank overdrafts                                          4.7        12.1
    Consolidated equity and liabilities                  4,426.8     3,931.3

Imerys - Summary financial statements as on December 31, 2010

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

    (EUR millions)                                        2010    2009

    Cash flow from operating activities                  406.4   520.5
    Cash flow generated by current operations            567.4   657.3
    Interests paid                                       (62.7)  (67.2)
    Income taxes on current operating income and
     financial income (loss)                             (82.6)  (26.1)
    Dividends received from available-for-sale
     financial assets                                      0.1     0.4
    Cash flow generated by other operating revenue
     and expenses                                        (15.8)  (43.9)
    Cash flow from investing activities                 (210.2) (115.5)
    Acquisitions of intangible assets and property,
     plant and equipment                                (154.9) (138.4)
    Acquisitions of investments in consolidated entities
     after deduction of cash acquired                    (69.2)  (10.9)

    Acquisitions of available-for-sale financial assets    0.4       -
    Disposals of intangible assets and property,
     plant and equipment                                   8.6    18.8
    Disposals of investments in consolidated entities
     after deduction of cash disposed of                   1.8    14.2

    Disposals of available-for-sale financial assets         -     0.1
    Net change in financial assets                         1.0    (1.2)
    Paid-in interests                                      2.1     1.9
    Cash flow from financing activities                 (118.0) (365.7)
    Capital increases                                      8.5   249.0
    Capital decreases                                     (7.1)      -
    Disposals (acquisitions) of treasury shares           (5.9)      -
    Dividends paid to shareholders                       (75.5)  (62.8)
    Dividends paid to non-controlling interests           (0.8)   (0.8)
    Loan issues                                           67.0     8.2
    Loan repayments                                      (32.0) (402.4)
    Net change in other debts                            (72.2) (156.9)
    Change in cash and cash equivalents                   78.2    39.3
    (EUR millions)                                       2010     2009

    Opening cash and cash equivalents                   252.6    211.2
    Change in cash and cash equivalents                  78.2     39.3
    Impact of changes due to changes in perimeter        (0.1)    (2.3)
    Impact of changes due to exchange rate fluctuations  17.5      4.5
    Impact of changes in accounting policies             (0.8)    (0.1)
    Closing cash and cash equivalents                   347.4    252.6
    Cash and cash equivalents                           352.1    264.6
    Bank overdrafts                                      (4.7)   (12.1)
    Analyst/Investor relations:
    Pascale Arnaud - +33-(0)1-49-55-63-91
    shareholders@imerys.com

    Press contacts:
    Pascale Arnaud - +33-(0)1-49-55-63-91
    Matthieu Roquet-Montegon - +33(0)6-16-92-80-65

Analyst/Investor relations: Pascale Arnaud - +33-(0)1-49-55-63-91, shareholders at imerys.com; Press contacts: Pascale Arnaud - +33-(0)1-49-55-63-91, Matthieu Roquet-Montégon - +33(0)6-16-92-80-65

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