GARICK TO ACQUIRE SMITH GARDEN PRODUCTS, INC. OF ATLANTA

05/03/04

CLEVELAND, Ohio – May 2004 - Garick ( www.garick.com ), a nationwide distributor and processor of sustainable natural resource products, announces that they have entered into a formal agreement to acquire the assets of Smith Garden Products, Inc., home of the brand name Nature's Helper®.

Smith Garden Products, Inc. (SGP) is a manufacturing enterprise engaged in the production and distribution of barks, mulches, soils and planting mixes for the lawn and garden industry whose headquarters are located in Cumming, GA. SGP produces over three dozen organic landscaping products under the branded label Nature's Helper® and Organic Valley™.

Gary Trinetti, President and CEO of Garick, says, “We are excited about building on the great brand names and location of the Smith Garden Products' facility in Cumming, GA.” Mr. Trinetti adds, "We believe in partnering strategically to recycle natural resource products to put back into the earth in ways that are enhancing people's lives and the environment. We want our partners and Garick to be recognized as leaders in the practice of Sustainability.”

Garick's Paygro division ( www.paygro.com ) is a major supplier of Paygro®, Farmer Green®, Black Satin®, and Kids Karpet® trademarked brands to the landscape, horticultural, and lawn and garden industries. Paygro produces many of its products utilizing the Paygro System™, a patented world-class composting method.

Garick's administrative offices are located in Cleveland, Ohio. This facility houses the administrative and logistical support functions for the entire organization, as well as a wholesale distribution center.

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