Universal Forest Products, Inc. Announces New Director

MarketWatch

Universal Forest Products, Inc. today announced that Bill Payne, chief of staff for Alticor Inc., has been appointed to the Company's board of directors and is expected to stand for election at the Company's annual shareholders meeting in April 2009. The appointment was approved by the board at its July 16, 2008 meeting.

"Bill Payne is an excellent addition to our board of directors," said Executive Chairman William G. Currie. "He brings well-cultivated business skills, a strong aptitude for strategy and an understanding of our company, business and culture. We look forward to his contributions to our company and success."

Payne was appointed as part of the board's succession plan to fill the seat expected to be vacated by Chairman Emeritus Peter Secchia, who is set to retire in 2009 at age 72, in accordance with Company policy. Appointing Payne now facilitates a smooth transition.