Press Release

FARIBAULT, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 9, 2001--Viratec Thin Films, Inc. announced today that it has signed a multi-year extension with 3M (NYSE:MMM) to supply optically coated glass products for its Optical Systems Division - a global supplier of lens and light control enhancement films, projection components, and anti-glare and privacy computer filters. Viratec, a subsidiary of Apogee Enterprises, Inc. of Minneapolis, MN USA (Nasdaq:APOG), is the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of optical thin film coatings for the display and imaging markets.

"We have worked closely with 3M to develop and deliver display enhancement solutions that have met and exceeded customer expectations for the past 10 years," said Kurt Ruefenacht, Viratec's Director of Sales and Marketing. "This agreement is another milestone in our relationship with 3M, and we're delighted to be an integral part of the team that works toward expanding 3M's customer offerings."

3M is a diversified $16 billion manufacturing company with operations in over 60 countries and more than 70,000 employees worldwide. Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, 3M manufactures electronic display components, anti-glare/anti-radiation computer filters, and Vikuiti brand optical enhancement films. 3M and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M company.

Viratec Thin Films' parent company, Apogee Enterprises (www.apog.com), is a world leader in technologies involving the design and development of value-added glass products, services and systems. Viratec specializes in the manufacture of large volume, vacuum-deposited optical thin film coatings on glass and plastic substrates. For further information, contact (E-mail) sales@viratec.com, Viratec Thin Films, Inc., 2150 Airport Drive, Faribault, MN 55021 USA (Telephone) 507-334-0051, (Fax) 507-334-0059, Internet: http://www.viratec.com.