Ferro Corporation is a global producer of a diverse array of performance materials sold to a broad range of manufacturers in approximately 30 markets throughout the world. The Company applies certain core scientific expertise in organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, polymer science and material science to develop coatings for ceramics and metal; materials for passive electronic components; pigments; enamels, pastes and additives for the glass market; specialty plastic compounds and colors; and polymer additives. Ferro's products are classified as performance materials, rather than commodities, because they are formulated to perform specific and important functions both in the manufacturing processes and in the finished products of the Company's customers. The Company's performance materials require a high degree of technical service on an individual customer basis. The value of these performance materials stems from the results and performance they achieve in actual use.