Commenting on the quarterly and annual results Manpower President and CEO Jeffrey Joerres stated, "Our operations finished the year with a very solid performance evidencing the strength of our globally diversified network and the quality of the Manpower brand. During 2000, we significantly enhanced our market position with the opening of almost 300 new offices and the expansion of specialty services through the acquisition of Elan and the formation of The Empower Group." Joerres also noted that the company's operations in mainland Europe, representing over 60% of worldwide profits, had an exceptional year, as revenues were up 23% and operating profits were up 50%.

Joerres added that, while the global economic outlook is a bit cloudy, barring any significant further slowing, he is comfortable with analysts' consensus estimates calling for an earnings per share growth in the 10% range for 2001. "The strength of our European operations should provide a positive counter to the slowing U.S. economy. We experienced that balance from our operations in the fourth quarter and it is likely we will see the same in the first quarter of 2001."

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2000 totaled $171.2 million, or $2.22 per diluted share, up 14 percent from $150.0 million, or $1.91 per diluted share in 1999. Revenues for the year rose 11 percent to $10.8 billion, while systemwide sales grew 8 percent to $12.4 billion. On a constant currency basis, earnings per share for the year rose 32% on a revenue increase of 21%.

In conjunction with its fourth quarter earnings release, Manpower will broadcast its conference call live over the Internet on February 6, 2001 at 9:00 a.m. CST (10:00 a.m. EST). Interested parties are invited to listen by logging on to investor.manpower.com.

This news release contains statements, including earning projections, that are forward-looking in nature and, accordingly, are subject to risks and uncertainties regarding the Company's expected future results. The Company's actual results may differ materially from those described or contemplated in the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statement can be found in the Company's reports filed with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1999, which information is incorporated herein by reference.

Manpower Inc. is a world leader in the staffing industry, providing workforce management services and solutions to customers through 3,685 offices in 59 countries. The firm annually provides employment to more than 2 million people worldwide and is an industry leader in employee assessment and training. Manpower also offers organizational performance consulting services worldwide through its independent operating division, The Empower Group. More information on Manpower Inc. can be found at the company's website, www.manpower.com. More information can also be found about The Empower Group at its website, www.empowergrp.com.