Fender Musical Instruments Corp. Announces That It is Not for Sale

Business Wire, June 9, 2004

Entertainment Editors/Business Editors

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 9, 2004

Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (FMIC) announced today that, contrary to recent reports, the iconic musical instrument manufacturer is not for sale.

"As you may be aware, an article has recently appeared in a number of financial publications in which there is reference made to the potential sale of Fender Musical Instruments Corp.," said Bill Schultz, chairman and chief executive officer of FMIC. "I want to make sure that you hear this straight from me; this article is completely erroneous, and FMIC is not for sale."

From time to time, FMIC conducts a valuation process to determine the current financial state of the company. This is something it has done over the years, and something it will continue to do periodically.

Added Schultz, "Current ownership of Fender Musical Instruments Corp. is intact, and it will continue to remain as such."

About Fender Musical Instruments Corp.

Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (FMIC) is the world's foremost manufacturer of guitars, amplifiers, and related equipment. Since 1946, the name Fender(R) has become synonymous with all things rock 'n' roll: from Buddy Holly to Jimi Hendrix to Eric Clapton to Kurt Cobain and everything in between. Fender's iconic instruments such as the Telecaster(R), Stratocaster(R), Precision Bass(R) and Jazz Bass(R) guitars are known the world over as the instruments that started the rock revolution, and they continue to be highly prized among today's hottest guitarists and collectors alike. Corporate headquarters are located in Scottsdale, Ariz., with manufacturing headquarters and the world-renowned Fender Custom Shop in Corona, Calif. FMIC markets using the brand names Fender(R), Squier(R), Guild(R), Benedetto(R), Gretsch(R), Jackson(R), Charvel(R), SWR(R), Floyd Rose(R), and Rodriguez(TM). For more information, contact Fender Musical Instruments Corp., 8860 E. Chaparral Road, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, 480-596-9690, or visit our Web site at www.fender.com.