Novelis Named Rexam’s European Supplier Of The Year

ZURICH – May 10, 2005 – Novelis (NYSE, TSX: NVL) has been named the 2004 Rexam European Supplier of the Year. The award is given annually to Rexam's best suppliers in recognition of their superior performance in quality, service, and technology.

"The Rexam European Supplier of the Year award is a very prestigious award in the packaging industry, and we are very honoured to receive it, especially in the first year of our new company," said Nick Madden, President of Novelis Can, Litho and Recycling (Europe). "Our relationship with Rexam demonstrates the value of partnership that includes product development, supply chain initiatives and recycling. This award is a tribute to the outstanding service provided by our employees in Goettingen, Norf (both in Germany) and Warrington (UK), and I'd like to congratulate them for this achievement."

"Novelis' performance and teamwork with Rexam during 2004 has been outstanding, driving a culture of continuous improvement in all areas,” said Richard Downes, Vice President Supply Chain, Europe. “They have looked for innovative ways to challenge and change the business processes between the two organisations. Novelis has managed to implement a number of cost reduction activities delivering benefits for both parties. In quality, they were the benchmark in supplier quality setting a new standard. The recognition in the award is well deserved.”

Novelis supplies high quality aluminium rolled products to Rexam for beverage can production. Much of the aluminium is manufactured by Novelis using recycled cans. Rexam is the world's leading beverage can maker, and Novelis is the global leader in aluminum can sheet.

Novelis separated from Alcan Inc. on Jan. 6, 2005, and is the global leader in aluminium rolled products and aluminium can recycling, with 37 operating facilities in 12 countries and more than 13,500 dedicated employees. Novelis is unique in its ability to provide its customers with a regional supply of high-end rolled aluminium throughout Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. Through its advanced production capabilities, Novelis supplies aluminium sheet and foil to automotive, transportation, beverage and food packaging, construction, industrial and printing markets.

Media contact:
John Gardner
Tel.: +41 44 386 2287
E-Mail: john.gardner@novelis.com

Released May 10, 2005