OM GROUP INC
10-K405, 1997-03-21
INDUSTRIAL INORGANIC CHEMICALS
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<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                                  -------------

                                    FORM 10-K

(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
    OF 1934 [FEE REQUIRED]

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996

                                       OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OF 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES 
    EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 [NO FEE REQUIRED]

For the transition period from ___________ to ____________


                         Commission file number 0-22572

                                 OM GROUP, INC.
               (Exact name of Registrant as specified in charter)

Delaware                                                       52-1736882
(State or other jurisdiction of                            (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or organization)                             Identification No.)

50 Public Square, 3800 Terminal Tower, Cleveland, Ohio         44113-2204
(Address of principal executive offices)                       (Zip Code)

                                  216-781-0083
               Registrant's telephone number, including area code

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

        Title of each class            Name of each exchange on which registered
        -------------------            -----------------------------------------
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share        New York Stock Exchange

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
                                      None

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  X  No
                                              ---    ---

    Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of the Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to
the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [ X ]

     The aggregate market value of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, held
by non-affiliates (based upon the closing sale price on the NYSE) on March 14,
1997 was approximately $528,283,310.

     As of March 14, 1997, there were 18,617,914 shares of Common Stock, par
value $.01 per share, outstanding.


                       DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the proxy statement dated April 4, 1996 for the annual meeting of 
stockholders to be held on May 6, 1997 are incorporated by reference.


<PAGE>   2


                                     PAGE 2
Part I
Item 1     BUSINESS

           OM Group, Inc. (the Company) is a leading, vertically integrated,    
           producer and international marketer of value-added metal-based
           specialty chemicals. The Company manufactures and sells more than
           250 specialty chemical and powder products for diverse applications
           in more than 15 industries. The Company's major products include
           custom catalysts used in petroleum refining and chemical processing,
           specialty additives used to accelerate the drying of paints and      
           inks, bonding agents used in steel-belted radial tires, coloring
           agents used in pigments, ceramics and glass, specialty powders used
           to make machine, mining and drilling cutting tools and heat
           stabilizers incorporated in flexible polyvinyl chloride products.
           These specialty chemicals and powders are usually a small, but
           essential part of a customer's product and represent a low
           percentage of the customer's overall cost.

           The Company operates in a single business segment with product lines
           comprised of metal-based specialty chemicals and powders.


           COMPETITION

           The Company's businesses are very competitive. Several of the
           Company's competitors are divisions or subsidiaries of companies
           that are substantially larger and have greater financial resources
           than the Company. However, the Company believes it is the only
           producer that manufactures and markets three categories of
           metal-based specialty chemicals and powders -- carboxylates,
           inorganic salts and powders. The Company believes it is the world's
           leading producer of cobalt carboxylates and cobalt and nickel
           specialty inorganic salts, and the world's second largest producer
           of cobalt extra-fine powders.

           The Company believes that its focus on metal-based specialty 
           chemicals and powders as a core business is an important competitive
           advantage.

           The degree of profitability of the Company depends, in part, on the
           Company's ability to maintain the differential between its product
           prices and raw material prices. Generally, the Company is able to
           pass along to its customers increases and decreases in raw material
           prices by increasing or decreasing, respectively, the prices of its
           products. The timing and amount of such adjustments in its product
           prices depends upon the type of product sold and the inventories and
           market share positions of the Company and its competitors.

           The Company's flexibility with respect to the timing of its price
           adjustments is greater with respect to carboxylates than with        
           inorganic salts and powders. Inorganic salt and powder prices        
           respond almost immediately to changes in the raw material base metal
           prices.




<PAGE>   3


                                     PAGE 3

Part I
Item 1     CUSTOMERS

           The Company serves over 1,000 customers with no single customer
           accounting for 10% or more of the Company's net sales. During 1996,
           approximately 40% of the Company's net sales were to customers in the
           Americas, 40% were to customers in Europe, and 20% were to customers
           in the Asia Pacific.

           While customer demand for the Company's products is generally
           non-seasonal, supply/demand and price perception dynamics of cobalt
           do periodically cause customers to either accelerate or delay
           purchases of the Company's products, generating short-term results
           that may not be indicative of longer-term trends.


           RAW MATERIALS

           The primary raw materials used by the Company in manufacturing its
           products are cobalt and nickel. The cost of raw materials fluctuates 
           due to supply and demand and changes in availability from suppliers.
           Cobalt is produced primarily in Australia, Canada, Cuba, Zaire and
           Zambia. While the Company has never experienced a material shortage
           of cobalt, production problems and instability in certain producer
           countries may in the future affect the supply and the market prices  
           of cobalt metal. The Company attempts to mitigate changes in prices
           and availability by entering into long-term supply contracts with a  
           variety of producers. The Company does not anticipate any
           substantial interruption in its raw materials supply that would
           have a material adverse effect on the Company's operations.

           Increases in the cost of raw materials can result in higher working  
           capital needs, when the price of cobalt, the Company's primary raw
           material, increases significantly. The Company has had sufficient
           cash availability and borrowing capacity to finance higher cost
           inventory as needed.


           RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

           The Company's research and new product development program is an
           integral part of its business. Research and development focuses on
           adapting proprietary technologies to develop new products and working
           with customers to meet their specific requirements. New products
           include new chemical formulations, concentrations of various
           components, product forms and packaging methods. Research and
           development expenses were approximately $3.8 million, $3.4 million,
           and $2.8 million for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively.

           The Company's research staff of 30 persons conducts carboxylate,
           metal salts and powders research and development at the Company's
           laboratories located in Cleveland, Ohio and Kokkola, Finland. The
           company also maintains a research agreement with Outokumpu Research
           Oy.


           PATENTS

           The Company holds 37 patents related to the manufacturing, processing
           and use of metallo-organic and metal-based compounds. In addition,
           the Company has the right to use, and in certain instances license
           and sell, technology covered by 16 patents in the areas of
           hydrometallurgical processes, solvent extraction, agitators and metal
           powders. The Company does not consider any single patent to be
           material to its business as a whole.


<PAGE>   4
                                     PAGE 4




Part I
Item 1     ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

           Since 1970, a wide variety of environmental laws and regulations
           have been adopted by the United States and by foreign governments.
           Such laws and regulations continue to be adopted and amended. The
           Company is subject to a number of these laws and regulations as a
           result of its operations and use of certain substances that are, or
           have been, used, produced or discharged by the Company's plants.

           Annual environmental compliance costs have approximated $1.0 million
           in each of the past three years. Such ongoing expenses include waste
           water analysis and disposal, solid waste analysis and disposal, sea
           water control and related staff costs. The Company anticipates
           expenditures at increasing levels for the foreseeable future, as
           discharge limits are lowered.

           The Company has also made capital expenditures of approximately $1.0
           million in each of the last three fiscal years in connection with
           environmental compliance. The Company anticipates that capital
           expenditures for such purposes will not exceed $1.0 million in either
           1997 or 1998.

           Because environmental laws and regulations are becoming increasingly
           stringent, the Company's environmental compliance costs may increase
           in the future. In addition, due to the possibility of unanticipated
           factual or regulatory developments, the amount and timing of future
           environmental expenditures could vary significantly from those
           currently anticipated.


           EMPLOYEES

           At December 31, 1996, the Company had 442 full-time employees of
           which 190 were located in the United States, 209 in Finland, 36 in
           Western Europe and 7 in Taiwan. Employees at the Company's facilities
           in Franklin, Pennsylvania; St. George, Utah; and Ezanville, France
           are non-unionized. Employees at the Company's facilities in Kokkola,
           Finland are members of several national workers' unions under various
           union agreements. Generally, such union agreements have two-year
           terms.


           INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

           Financial information related to international operations is
           contained in Note H on page 25 of this report.

           The Company's products are manufactured at facilities located in
           Franklin, Pennsylvania; St. George, Utah; Kokkola, Finland; and
           Ezanville, France. The Company conducts its marketing and sales from
           its offices in Cleveland, Ohio; Dusseldorf, Germany; and Taipei,
           Taiwan.

           Although most of the Company's raw material purchases and product
           sales are transacted in U.S. Dollars, liabilities for non-U.S.
           operating expenses and income taxes are denominated in local
           currencies. Accordingly, fluctuations in currency prices may affect
           the Company's operating results and net income. Specifically, when
           the Finnish Markka weakens against the U. S. Dollar, there is a net
           favorable effect on the Company due to lower operating expenses and
           lower net balance sheet liabilities when translated into U. S.
           Dollars. The reverse is true when the Finnish Markka strengthens
           against the U. S. Dollar.


<PAGE>   5
                                     PAGE 5



Part I
Item 2     PROPERTIES

           The Company believes that its plants and facilities, which are of
           varying ages and of different construction types, have been
           satisfactorily maintained, are in good condition, are suitable for
           the Company's operations and generally provide sufficient capacity to
           meet the Company's production requirements. The land on which the
           Kokkola plant is located is leased with a remaining term of 94 years.
           The land on which the St. George, Utah plant is located is leased
           with a remaining term, including options, of 48 years. Otherwise, the
           real properties comprising the Company's manufacturing facilities are
           owned by the Company.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
           Location                      Products Manufactured               Technology
           ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

<S>                                      <C>                                 <C>
           Franklin, Pennsylvania        Carboxylates, Salts                 Semicontinuous, batch processing
           St. George, Utah              Salts                               Semicontinuous, batch processing
           Kokkola, Finland              Carboxylates, Salts, Powders        Automated, continuous and batch
                                                                             processing
           Ezanville, France             Carboxylates                        Batch processing
</TABLE>

           The Company's Kokkola, Finland production facility (KCO) is situated
           on property owned by Outokumpu Zinc Oy. KCO and Outokumpu Zinc Oy
           share certain physical facilities, services and utilities under
           agreements with varying expiration dates. General property and
           administrative services are provided under a service agreement, which
           expires in 1998, but are priced separately and subject to yearly
           renegotiation in anticipation of phasing out Outokumpu Zinc's role as
           a service provider. Utilities and raw material purchase assistance
           contracts provide that KCO jointly purchase with, or pay a fee to,
           affiliates of Outokumpu Oy for assistance in negotiating contracts
           and securing bulk quantity discounts.

           The Company maintains its principal executive offices at Tower City,
           50 Public Square, 3800 Terminal Tower, Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204.   
           Certain information regarding the Company's offices and research and
           product development facilities is set forth below:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                   Approximate
           Location                     Facility Function                                          Square Feet
           ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                    <C>                                                            <C>
           Cleveland, Ohio              Corporate headquarters (leased)                                  5,800
                                        Research and development facility (land lease)                  11,400
                                        Americas marketing and administration offices
                                        (land lease)                                                    14,800

           Dusseldorf, Germany          European marketing and administration offices
                                        (leased)                                                         3,800

           Taipei, Taiwan               Asia Pacific marketing and administration offices (leased)       1,500
</TABLE>


Item 3     LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

           Manufacturers of specialty chemical products, including the Company,
           are subject to various legal and administrative proceedings
           incidental to such business. In the opinion of the Company,
           disposition of all suits and claims should not in the aggregate have
           a material adverse effect on the Company's business or financial
           position.


Item 4     SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

           Not applicable.


<PAGE>   6
                                     PAGE 6



Part I     EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

           There is set forth below the name, age, positions and offices held by
           each of the Company's executive officers as of March 21, 1997 as well
           as their business experiences during the past five years. Years
           indicate the year the individual was named to the indicated position.
           There is no family relationship between any of the Company's
           executive officers.

           James P. Mooney - 49
                  Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, 1994
                  Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, 1993
                  President and Chief Executive Officer, 1991
                  President and Chief Executive Officer, Mooney Chemicals, Inc.,
                  1979

           Eugene Bak - 63
                  President and Chief Operating Officer, 1994
                  Executive Vice President, 1993
                  President, Mooney Chemicals, Inc., 1992
                  Senior Vice President, Operations, Mooney Chemicals, Inc., 
                  1989

           James M. Materna - 51
                  Chief Financial Officer, 1992
                  Principal, Ashley Management, 1986

           Thomas E. Fleming - 51
                  President, OMG Americas, Inc., 1994
                  Vice President, Marketing, Mooney Chemicals, Inc., 1987

           J. R. Hwang - 48
                  President, OMG Asia Pacific Co., Ltd., 1994
                  Director of Far East Operations, The Hall Chemical Company, 
                  1982

           Kari Muuraiskangas - 52
                  President, OMG Europe GmbH, 1992
                  President, Outokumpu Chemicals Oy, 1989

           H. Burnham Tinker - 57
                  Vice President, Corporate Development, 1994
                  Vice President, Research and Development, Mooney Chemicals, 
                  Inc., 1990

           Antti Aaltonen - 49
                  President, OMG Kokkola Chemicals Oy, 1996
                  Vice President, Operations, OMG Kokkola Chemicals Oy, 1992
                  Production Manager, Kokkola Chemicals Oy, 1982

           Michael J. Scott - 46
                  Vice President, Human Resources, General Counsel and 
                  Secretary, 1995
                  General Counsel and Secretary, 1991
                  General Counsel, Mooney Chemicals, Inc., 1983

           John R. Holtzhauser - 40
                  Corporate Controller, 1993
                  Controller, Mooney Chemicals, Inc., 1986

           Terry Guckes - 47
                  Vice President, Planning and Development, 1996
                  Vice President, Lubrizol International Management Company, 
                  Lubrizol Corporation, 1993


<PAGE>   7
                                     PAGE 7



Part II
Item 5     MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

           The information relating to the recent price and dividend history of
           the Company's Common Stock is contained on page 26 of this report.
           The Company's Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange  
           under the symbol "OMP." At March 14, 1997, the Company had
           approximately 5,700 shareowners.


Item 6     SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

           Selected financial data for each of the last five years is included
           on page 13 of this report.


Item 7     MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND 
           RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

           The Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition      
           and Results of Operations is contained on pages 14 through 16,
           inclusive, of this report.


Item 8     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

           The consolidated financial statements of the Company and its
           subsidiaries, together with the independent auditors' report 
           relating thereto, is contained on pages 17 through 26, inclusive, of
           this report. The quarterly data (unaudited) is contained on page 26
           of this report.


Item 9     CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND 
           FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

           There are no such changes or disagreements.



<PAGE>   8
                                     PAGE 8



Part III
Item 10    DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

           The information relating to directors of the Company contained under
           the heading "Election of Directors" on pages 2 and 3 of the  
           Company's Proxy Statement dated April 4, 1997, is incorporated
           herein by reference. Information relative to executive officers of
           the Company is contained under Part I of this report.


Item 11    EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

           The information relating to executive compensation contained under
           the headings "Committees and Meetings of the Board of Directors" on
           page 5 and "Executive Compensation" on pages 6 through 9,
           inclusive, of the Company's Proxy Statement dated April 4, 1997, is
           incorporated herein by reference.


Item 12    SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

           The information relating to security ownership set forth under the   
           heading "Security Ownership of Directors and Officers, and Certain
           Beneficial Owners" on pages 4 and 5 of the Company's Proxy Statement
           dated April 4, 1997, is incorporated herein by reference.


Item 13    CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

           The information relating to the related transactions set forth under 
           the heading "Related Party Transactions" on page 10 of the Company's
           Proxy Statement dated April 4, 1997, is incorporated herein by
           reference.


<PAGE>   9
                                     PAGE 9



Part IV


Item 14    EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

           (a)  Documents filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K

                (1) The following Consolidated Financial Statements of OM Group,
                    Inc. are filed as a separate section of this report:

                    Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1996 and 1995 -
                    page 17.

                    Statements of Consolidated Income for the years ended
                    December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994 - page 18.

                    Statements of Consolidated Stockholders' Equity for the
                    years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994 - page 18.

                    Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows for the years ended
                    December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 - page 19.

                    Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

                (2) All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable
                    accounting regulation of the Securities and Exchange
                    Commission are not required under the related instructions
                    or are inapplicable and, therefore, have been omitted.

                (3) Exhibits

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   (3)    Articles of Incorporation and by-laws

<S>                                 <C>                                                                      <C>
                          3.1        Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the 
                                     Company                                                                   **
                          3.2        Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company                                **

                   (4)    Instruments defining rights of security holders, including indentures

                          4.1        Form of Common Stock Certificate of the Company                           **
                          4.2        Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of 
                                     January 21, 1997 among National City Bank as Agent and ABN
                                     Amro Bank N.V., Key Bank National Association and Mellon 
                                     Bank N.A. and OM Group, Inc., as Borrower.
                          4.3        Note Purchase Agreement among OM Group, Inc. as Seller and The
                                     Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, Nationwide Life
                                     Insurance Company and Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance
                                     Company as Purchaser, dated August 30, 1995 (filed as Exhibit
                                     to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
                                     year ended December 31, 1995 and incorporated herein by
                                     reference).
                          4.4        Stockholder Rights Agreement dated as of November 5, 1996
                                     between OM Group, Inc. and National City Bank (filed as Exhibit
                                     1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed on December
                                     5, 1996 which exhibit is incorporated herein by reference).
                          4.5        Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A
                                     Participatory Preferred Stock (filed as Exhibit to Current Report
                                     on Form 8-K filed November 27, 1996 and incorporated herein by
                                     reference) 

                   (10)   Material Contracts

                          10.1      Agreement for Sale of Cobalt Sulfide between Kokkola Chemicals 
                                    Oy and Queensland Nickel Joint Venture dated March 6, 1992, 
                                    as novated and amended on January 31, 1996.                                **
                          10.2      Cobalt Slag Purchase Agreement between Kokkola Chemicals 
                                    Oy and La Generale des Carrieres et des Mines - Exploitation 
                                    and La Generale des Carrieres et des Mines pour la
                                    Commercialisation, dated November 21, 1992.                                **
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   10
                                    PAGE 10



Part IV
Item 14


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                 <C>                                                                          <C>
                           10.3     Contract for Handling, Transportation and Follow-up of the Cobalt 
                                    Slags [sic] between Kokkola Chemicals Oy and La Generale des 
                                    Carrieres et des Mines - Exploitation and La Societe New Baron 
                                    Leveque International dated November 23, 1992.                                **
                           10.4     Nickel Concentrate Sales Agreement between Outokumpu 
                                    Chemicals Oy and Outokumpu Finnmines Oy dated December
                                    21, 1991                                                                      **
                           10.5     Service Agreement between Kokkola Chemicals Oy and 
                                    Outokumpu Kokkola Zinc Oy dated March 22, 1993.                               **
                           10.6     Agreement between Kokkola Chemicals Oy and Outokumpu 
                                    Mintec Oy dated March 31, 1993 regarding technical services                   **
                           10.7     Lease Agreement between Outokumpu Chemicals Oy and 
                                    Outokumpu Kokkola Zinc Oy dated December 11, 1991.                            **
                           10.8     Amendment No. 1 to Lease Agreement among Kokkola 
                                    Chemicals Oy, Outokumpu Metals & Resources Oy and 
                                    Outokumpu Kokkola Zinc Oy dated March 22, 1993.                               **
                           10.9     Heath [sic] Energy Contract NR 172 between Imatran Voima Oy 
                                    and Outokumpu Chemicals Oy dated December 16, 1991.                           **
                           10.10    Electricity Contract NR 9 between Outokumpu Oy Electricity 
                                    Energy Services and Kokkola Chemicals Oy dated March 23, 1993.                **
                           10.11    Agreement on Transmission of Electricity -- Supplementary 
                                    Contract to Electricity Contracts NROS 2 and 9 between 
                                    Outokumpu Oy, Outokumpu Kokkola Zinc Oy and Kokkola
                                    Chemicals Oy dated March 22, 1993.                                            **
                           10.12    Agreement between Outokumpu Research Oy and Kokkola 
                                    Chemicals Oy dated March 25, 1993.                                            **
                           10.13    Technology Agreement among Outokumpu Oy, Outokumpu 
                                    Engineering Contractors Oy, Outokumpu Research Oy, 
                                    Outokumpu Harjavalta Metals Oy and Kokkola Chemicals Oy 
                                    dated March 24, 1993.                                                         **
                           10.14    Agreement for Delivery and Disposal of Residue between 
                                    Outokumpu Finnmines Oy and Kokkola Chemicals Oy dated 
                                    March 29, 1993.
                          *10.15    OM Group, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan.                         **
                          *10.16    Amendment to OM Group, Inc. Long-Term Incentive 
                                    Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 99(b) to the OM Group, Inc. 
                                    Form S-8 Registration Statement filed on February 1, 1994, and 
                                    incorporated herein by                                                       ***
                                    reference).
                          *10.17    Mooney Chemicals, Inc. Welfare Benefit Plan.                                  **
                          *10.18    Mooney Chemicals, Inc. Profit Sharing Plan.                                   **
                          *10.19    Amendment to Mooney Chemicals, Inc. Profit Sharing Plan.
                          *10.20    OM Group, Inc. Bonus Program for Key Executives and Middle 
                                    Management.                                                                   **
                          *10.21    Employment Agreement between Mooney Acquisition 
                                    Corporation and James P. Mooney dated September 30, 1991.                     **
                          *10.22    Amendment to Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. 
                                    and James P. Mooney dated August 19, 1992.                                    **
                          *10.23    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and Kari 
                                    Muuraiskangas dated January 1, 1993.                                          **
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   11
                                    PAGE 11


Part IV
Item 14

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                        <C>                                                                            <C>
                          *10.24    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and James M. 
                                    Materna dated January 1, 1993.                                         **
                          *10.25    Employment Agreement between Mooney Chemicals, Inc. and 
                                    Eugene Bak dated August 19, 1991.                                      **
                          *10.26    Amendment to Employment Agreement between Mooney Chemicals, 
                                    Inc. and Eugene Bak dated September 1, 1992.                           **
                          *10.27    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and Thomas E. 
                                    Fleming dated August 19, 1991.                                         **
                          *10.28    Amendment to Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and 
                                    Thomas E. Fleming dated August 19, 1991.                               **
                          *10.29    Employment Agreement between Mooney Chemicals, Inc. and H. 
                                    Burnham Tinker dated August 19, 1991.                                  **
                          *10.30    Amendment to Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and 
                                    H. Burnham Tinker dated August 19, 1991.                               **
                          *10.31    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and Antti Aaltonen.        **
                          *10.32    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and John R. 
                                    Holtzhauser and Amendment thereto (filed as Exhibit to the
                                    Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
                                    December 31, 1994 and incorporated herein by reference).
                          *10.33    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and Michael J. 
                                    Scott (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form
                                    10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994 and incorporated
                                    herein by reference).
                          *10.34    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and J.R. Hwang
                                    (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form
                                    10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994 and incorporated
                                    herein by reference).
                           10.35    OM Group, Inc. Non-employee Directors' Plan dated May 9, 1995
                                    (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form
                                    10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994 and incorporated
                                    herein by reference).
                           10.36    Cobalt-Nickel Hydrate Purchase Agreement between Kokkola 
                                    Chemicals Oy and La Generale des Carrieres et des Mines, dated 
                                    November 29, 1995 (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual
                                    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995
                                    and incorporated herein by reference).
                           10.37    Note Purchase Agreement among OM Group, Inc. as Seller and The 
                                    Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, Nationwide Life 
                                    Insurance Company and Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance 
                                    Company as Purchaser, dated August 30, 1995 (filed as Exhibit
                                    to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
                                    year ended December 31, 1995 and incorporated herein by
                                    reference).
                          *10.38    OM Group, Inc. Benefit Restoration Plan, effective January 1, 1995
                                    (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
                                    for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 and incorporated 
                                    herein by reference).
                          *10.39    Trust under OM Group, Inc. Benefit Restoration Plan, effective 
                                    January 1, 1995 (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report
                                    on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 and
                                    incorporated herein by reference).
                          *10.40    Retirement Benefit Agreement, Eugene Bak, dated January 1, 1995
                                    (filed as Exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
                                    for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 and incorporated
                                    herein by reference).
                          *10.41    OMG/Mooney Chemicals, Inc. Employee Profit Sharing Plan 
                                    (January 1, 1994 restatement) (filed as Exhibit to the
                                    Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
                                    ended December 31, 1995 and incorporated herein by
                                    reference).
                          *10.42    Employment Agreement between OM Group, Inc. and Terry L. 
                                    Guckes.
                           10.43    Stockholder Rights Agreement dated as of November 5, 1996 
                                    between OM Group, Inc. and National City Bank (filed as Exhibit 1 to 
                                    the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed on December 5, 
                                    1996 which exhibit is incorporated herein by reference).
                           10.44    Stock Purchase Agreement between SUSI Corporation and OM 
                                    Group, Inc. dated December 20, 1996.
                          *10.45    Amendment to OM Group, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Compensation 
                                    Plan (filed as Exhibit 99 to the OM Group, Inc. Form S-8 Registration 
                                    Statement filed on July 3, 1996, and incorporated herein by 
                                    reference).
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   12
                                    PAGE 12



Part IV
Item 14
                          *10.46    Amendment to OMG Americas, Inc.
                                    Profit-Sharing Plan (filed as Exhibit 99 to
                                    the Om Group, Inc. Form S-8 Registration
                                    Statement filed on July 3, 1996, and
                                    incorporated herein by reference).

                   (11)   Statement Regarding Computation of Earnings Per Share 
                          (filed as a separate section of this report)

                   (21)   List of Subsidiaries (filed as a separate section of 
                          this report)

                   (23)   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP (filed as a separate 
                          section of this report)

                   (24)   Power of Attorney (filed as a separate section of this
                          report)

                   (27)   Financial Data Schedule (filed as a separate section 
                          of this report)

           (b) The following reports on Form 8-K have been filed during the last
               quarter of 1996:

                1)  Current report on Form 8-K filed on December 5, 1996 
                    regarding the Stockholder Rights Agreement between OM Group,
                    Inc. and National City Bank.

                          * Indicates a management contract, executive
                            compensation plan or arrangement.

                         ** These documents were filed as exhibits to the
                            Company's Form S-1 Registration Statement 
                            (Registration No. 33-60444) which became effective 
                            on October 12, 1993, and are incorporated herein 
                            by reference.

                        *** Filed as Exhibit 99(b) to the OM Group, Inc. 
                            Form S-8 Registration Statement filed on 
                            February 1, 1994, and incorporated herein by 
                            reference.



<PAGE>   13
                                   PAGE 13

     The following information is being filed as separate sections to this
Annual Report on Form 10-K in response to Part II, Items 5 through 8:


FINANCIAL REVIEW
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(in millions, except per share data)
Year Ended December 31,                                1996            1995          1994          1993           1992
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>            <C>            <C>           <C>           <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Net sales                                             $ 388.0        $ 361.0        $ 251.3       $ 179.5       $ 201.2
Gross profit                                             84.0           74.6           60.6          45.8          38.6
Selling, general and administrative expenses             32.6           30.6           25.4          20.7          20.4
Income from operations                                   51.4           44.0           35.2          25.1          18.2
Other income (expense)                                   (7.0)          (5.5)          (4.1)         (2.0)           .6
Net income                                            $  30.0        $  25.9        $  20.7       $  15.4       $  12.0
Net income per share                                  $  1.56        $  1.36        $  1.09       $  0.95       $  0.77

BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Total assets                                          $ 438.6        $ 358.0        $ 278.0       $ 217.3       $ 172.6
Long-term debt                                          109.3           89.8           46.6          30.6          48.5

<FN>
All share and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the
December 2, 1996 three-for-two stock split.
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   14
                                   PAGE 14


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and
results of operations should be read in conjunction with the financial
statements of the Company and the notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this
Annual Report.

     Set forth below is summary consolidated financial information of the
Company for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994. 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Thousands of dollars)
Year Ended December 31,                              1996             1995              1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>              <C>              <C>      
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Net sales                                          $ 387,999        $ 360,959        $ 251,275
Gross profit                                          83,974           74,563           60,574
Selling, general and administrative expenses          32,553           30,594           25,413
                                                   -------------------------------------------
Income from operations                                51,421           43,969           35,161
Other expense                                         (7,018)          (5,451)          (4,133)
Income tax expense                                   (14,356)         (12,585)         (10,286)
                                                   -------------------------------------------
Net income                                         $  30,047        $  25,933        $  20,742
                                                   ===========================================
PRODUCTS SOLD: (millions of pounds)
Carboxylates                                            43.1             39.7             37.0
Salts                                                   50.7             46.4             42.9
Powders                                                  2.9              2.4              1.6
                                                   -------------------------------------------
Total                                                   96.7             88.5             81.5
                                                   ===========================================

</TABLE>

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Year Ended December 31, 1996 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1995

   Net sales for 1996 were $388 million, an increase of 7.5% compared to 1995.
The increase in sales resulted principally from increases in physical volume of
products sold and from changes in product mix, more than offsetting a decline in
the Company's product prices resulting from decreasing cobalt market prices.

   Cobalt market prices ranged from $20 to $32 per pound during 1996 compared to
$27 to $32 per pound during 1995. The market price of nickel ranged from $2.92
to $3.78 per pound during 1996 compared to $3.17 to $4.57 per pound during 1995.

   Pounds of product sold by the Company were approximately 96.7 million pounds
during 1996 compared to 88.5 million pounds in 1995. The increase in carboxylate
products sold resulted principally from higher sales in Europe. The increase in
salt products sold resulted principally from higher sales of cobalt based
products. The increase in powders sold resulted principally from higher sales of
coarse grade powders.

   Gross profit increased to $84 million in 1996, a 12.6% increase from 1995.
The improvement in gross profit was primarily the result of higher physical
volume of products sold and changes in product mix, including increases in
cobalt based products. Cost of products sold decreased to 78.4% of net sales for
the year ended 1996 from 79.3% of net sales in 1995 primarily because of lower
cobalt market prices.

     Selling, general and administrative expenses remained approximately the
same at 8.4% of net sales in 1996 and 1995.

   Other expenses were $7 million in 1996 compared to $5.5 million in 1995 due
primarily to increased interest expense on higher outstanding borrowings, offset
by gains on foreign exchange.

   Income taxes as a percentage of income before tax decreased to 32% in 1996
from 33% in 1995 as a greater percentage of total income was earned in Finland,
which has a lower statutory tax rate (28%) than in the United States.

   Net income for 1996 was $30 million, an increase of $4.1 million from 1995,
primarily due to the aforementioned factors.


<PAGE>   15
                                   PAGE 15


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Year Ended December 31, 1995 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1994

   Net sales for 1995 were $361 million, an increase of 43.7% compared to 1994.
The increase in sales resulted principally from increases in the Company's
selling prices resulting from increasing cobalt market prices, as well as
increases in physical volume of products sold.

   Cobalt market prices ranged from $27 to $32 per pound during 1995 compared to
$14 to $30 per pound during 1994. The market price of nickel ranged from $3.17
to $4.57 per pound during 1995 compared to $2.37 to $4.02 per pound during 1994.

   Pounds of product sold by the Company were approximately 88.5 million pounds
during 1995 compared to 81.5 million pounds in 1994. The increase in physical
volume of carboxylate products sold resulted primarily from increased sales of
PVC heat stabilizers. The increase in salt products sold resulted primarily from
higher sales of cobalt salts. The increase in powder products sold resulted from
increases in both extra fine and coarse grade powder sales.

   Gross profit increased to $74.6 million in 1995, a 23.1% increase from 1994.
The improvement in gross profit was primarily the result of higher physical
volume of products sold, a more favorable product mix, and relatively more
stable market prices. Because certain of the Company's products are sold at a
relatively fixed dollar amount over raw material costs, the Company's percentage
gross margin decreased to 20.7% in 1995 from 24.1% in 1994 as cobalt market
prices increased to higher levels in 1995.

   Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to 8.5% of net sales
in 1995 from 10.1% of net sales in 1994. This improvement resulted from higher
overall increases in net sales relative to increases of $5.2 million in expenses
due to higher administrative costs to support the Company's growth in global
markets.

   Other expenses were $5.5 million in 1995 compared to $4.1 million in 1994 due
primarily to increased interest expense on higher outstanding borrowings offset
by lower losses on foreign exchange.

   Income taxes as a percentage of income before tax remained approximately the
same at 33% in both 1995 and 1994. In 1995, a greater percentage of total income
was earned in Finland, which has a lower statutory tax rate than the United
States. Offsetting this, however, were adjustments of worldwide tax liabilities
and a change in Finland's statutory tax rate to 28% for 1996.

   Net income for 1995 was $25.9 million, an increase of $5.2 million from 1994,
primarily due to the aforementioned factors. 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES 

The Company has used available cash flow from operations, increased borrowings,
and proceeds from the sale of common stock to finance increases in working
capital and capital expenditures. The Company believes that it will have
sufficient cash generated by operations to provide for its future working
capital and capital expenditure requirements and to pay quarterly cash dividends
on its common stock, subject to the Board's discretion. In February, 1997, the
Board of Directors authorized an increase in quarterly dividends to $.08 per
share. Subject to several limitations in its revolving credit facilities and its
note purchase agreement, the Company may incur additional borrowings to finance
working capital and certain capital expenditures, including, without limitation,
the purchase of additional raw materials.

   The Company had higher working capital needs in 1995 and 1996 resulting from
its substantial growth, and for funding advance payments for certain raw
materials.


<PAGE>   16
                                   PAGE 16


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

   The Company has ongoing capital expenditure programs to improve its
processing technology and plant and equipment, and to expand capacity to
accommodate its substantial growth. The Company anticipates that capital
spending, exclusive of acquisitions or joint ventures, will approximate $30
million per year through 1998.

   The Company enters into long-term inventory supply arrangements and in 1995
took delivery of and title to 53,000 wet metric tons of cobalt slag at its
Kokkola facilities from a major supplier. The Company was not required to pay
for such slag until used, but has at times made advance payments. During 1996,
the Company took delivery of an additional 80,000 wet metric tons.

   In 1994, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement for the
three year period ending December 20, 1997 to convert the variable interest rate
on an aggregate contract amount of $30 million to a fixed rate of 7.28% plus
 .35% to .75%. The purpose of entering into the interest rate swap is to protect
the Company from the possibility of higher interest rates on what it views as
base borrowings under its variable rate revolving credit facility.

   The Company's revolving credit facility was revised in October, 1996 to
increase available credit from $60 to $120 million and expand its sources of
capital by adding two new institutions. In connection with the acquisition of
SCM Metal Products, Inc. (SCM), the Company's revolving credit facility was
further expanded to $240 million in January, 1997, with a $10 million sublimit
for letters of credit.

   Although most of the Company's raw material purchases and product sales are
transacted in U.S. Dollars, liabilities for non-U.S. operating expenses and
income taxes are denominated in local currencies. Accordingly, fluctuations in
currency prices may affect the Company's operating results and net income.
Specifically, when the Finnish Markka weakens against the U.S. Dollar, there is
a net favorable effect on the Company due to lower operating expenses and lower
net balance sheet liabilities when translated into U.S. Dollars. The reverse is
true when the Finnish Markka strengthens against the U.S. Dollar. In order to
partially hedge the balance sheet exposure to fluctuating rates, the Company
enters into forward contracts to purchase Finnish Markka. 

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

   The Company is making this statement in order to satisfy the "safe harbor"
provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
The foregoing discussion includes forward-looking statements relating to the
business of the Company. Forward-looking statements contained herein or in other
statements made by the Company are subject to uncertainties and factors relating
to the Company's operations and business environment, all of which are difficult
to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the Company, that could
cause actual results of the Company to differ materially from those matters
expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company believes
that the following factors, among others, could affect its future performance
and cause actual results of the Company to differ materially from those
expressed in or implied by forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of
the Company: (a) the price and supply of raw materials, particularly cobalt,
nickel and copper; (b) continued growth in demand for the Company's products;
(c) risks associated with environmental liability inherent in the nature of a
chemical business; (d) uncertainty relating to the Company's ability to identify
suitable acquisition candidates and to finance, consummate and assimilate such
future acquisitions; (e) the effect of fluctuations in currency exchange rates
upon the Company's international operations; and (f) the effect of non-currency
risks of investing in and conducting operations in foreign countries, including
those relating to political, social, economic and regulatory factors.



<PAGE>   17
                                   PAGE 17

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Thousands of dollars)
December 31,                                                                              1996             1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                                  <C>              <C>      
Assets
Current assets:
   Cash and cash equivalents                                                         $   7,818        $   9,098
   Accounts receivable, less allowance of
     $210 in 1996 and $194 in 1995                                                      60,054           71,959
   Inventories                                                                         195,050          139,067
   Other current assets                                                                  8,245           13,817
                                                                                     --------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS                                                                   271,167          233,941
Property, plant and equipment:
   Land                                                                                    467              331
   Buildings and improvements                                                           40,569           33,607
   Machinery and equipment                                                             122,695          102,576
   Furniture and fixtures                                                                4,074            3,427
                                                                                     --------------------------
                                                                                       167,805          139,941
Less accumulated depreciation                                                           57,184           42,661
                                                                                     --------------------------
                                                                                       110,621           97,280
Other assets:
   Unprocessed inventory                                                                27,499
   Goodwill and other intangible assets, less accumulated
     amortization of $4,967 in 1996 and $4,088 in 1995                                  23,036           23,842
   Other assets                                                                          6,310            2,979
                                                                                     --------------------------
TOTAL ASSETS                                                                         $ 438,633        $ 358,042
                                                                                     ==========================
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 
Current liabilities:
   Current portion of long-term debt                                                 $   3,586        $   5,263
   Accounts payable                                                                     77,330           61,917
   Accrued income taxes                                                                  2,753            9,484
   Other accrued expenses                                                               13,637           10,282
                                                                                     --------------------------
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES                                                               97,306           86,946

Long-term debt                                                                         109,295           89,845
Contract payable                                                                        27,499
Deferred income taxes                                                                   17,773           18,597
Other long-term liabilities                                                              1,438            1,226
Stockholders' equity:
   Preferred stock, $.01 par value:
     Authorized 2,000,000 shares; no shares issued or outstanding
   Common stock, $.01 par value:
     Authorized 30,000,000 shares; issued 18,759,346 shares                                188              125
   Capital in excess of par value                                                      102,125          102,088
   Retained earnings                                                                    86,345           61,763
   Treasury stock (141,432 shares in 1996 and 129,168 shares in 1995, at cost)          (3,095)          (2,512)
   Foreign currency translation adjustments                                               (241)             (36)
                                                                                     --------------------------
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                                             185,322          161,428
                                                                                     --------------------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                                           $ 438,633        $ 358,042
                                                                                     ==========================
<FN>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
</TABLE>


<PAGE>   18
                                   PAGE 18


STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(Thousands of dollars, except per share data)
Year Ended December 31,                                 1996            1995              1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>              <C>              <C>      
OPERATIONS
Net sales                                          $ 387,999        $ 360,959        $ 251,275
Cost of products sold                                304,025          286,396          190,701
                                                   -------------------------------------------
                                                      83,974           74,563           60,574
Selling, general and administrative expenses          32,553           30,594           25,413
                                                   -------------------------------------------
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS                                51,421           43,969           35,161

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Interest expense                                      (7,485)          (5,516)          (3,150)
Interest income                                          244              398              366
Foreign exchange gain (loss)                             223             (333)          (1,349)
                                                   -------------------------------------------
                                                      (7,018)          (5,451)          (4,133)
                                                   -------------------------------------------
Income before income taxes                            44,403           38,518           31,028
Income taxes                                          14,356           12,585           10,286
                                                   -------------------------------------------
Net income                                         $  30,047        $  25,933        $  20,742
                                                   ===========================================
NET INCOME PER SHARE                               $    1.56        $    1.36        $    1.09
                                                   ===========================================

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
</TABLE>


STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      Foreign 
                                         Capital in                                  Currency 
                                 Common   Excess of     Retained      Treasury    Translation 
(Thousands of dollars)            Stock   Par Value     Earnings         Stock    Adjustments        Total 
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<S>                                <C>     <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>       <C>      
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 1994         $125    $102,088      $23,058                        $(389)    $124,882 
Net income                                                20,742                                    20,742 
Translation adjustment                                                                    205          205 
Dividends paid                                            (3,496)                                   (3,496)
Treasury stock purchased                                               $(1,158)                     (1,158)
                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1994        125     102,088       40,304        (1,158)          (184)     141,175 

Net income                                                25,933                                    25,933 
Translation adjustment                                                                    148          148 
Dividends paid                                            (4,474)                                   (4,474)
Treasury stock purchased                                                (1,354)                     (1,354)
                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995        125     102,088       61,763        (2,512)           (36)     161,428 

Net income                                                30,047                                    30,047 
Non-employee directors' compensation            100                                                    100 
Translation adjustment                                                                   (205)        (205)
Dividends paid                                            (5,465)                                   (5,465)
Treasury stock purchased                                                  (583)                       (583)
Three-for-two stock split            63         (63)                                                     0 
                                   ------------------------------------------------------------------------

BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996       $188    $102,125      $86,345       $(3,095)         $(241)    $185,322 
                                   ========================================================================

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   19
                                   PAGE 19


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

(Thousands of dollars)
Year Ended December 31,                                   1996          1995          1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                     <C>           <C>           <C>     
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income                                              $ 30,047      $ 25,933      $ 20,742
Items not affecting cash:
   Depreciation and amortization                          15,814        13,734        10,689
   Foreign exchange (gain) loss                             (223)          333         1,349
   Deferred income taxes                                   7,841         1,552         2,962
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
   Accounts receivable                                    11,905       (25,336)      (21,401)
   Inventories                                           (83,482)      (14,081)      (48,635)
   Accounts payable and other accruals                    34,765         7,342        41,338
   Other                                                    (851)       (5,833)       (1,181)
                                                        ------------------------------------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES                 15,816         3,644         5,863

INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Expenditures for property, plant and equipment--net      (28,129)      (31,215)      (19,674)
Acquisitions of businesses                                  (395)      (14,511)
                                                        ------------------------------------
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES                    (28,524)      (45,726)      (19,674)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Dividend payments                                         (5,465)       (4,474)       (3,496)
Long-term borrowings                                      33,364        94,418        18,000
Payments of long-term debt                               (15,591)      (46,021)       (2,000)
Purchase of treasury stock                                  (583)       (1,354)       (1,158)
                                                        ------------------------------------
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES                 11,725        42,569        11,346

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash                     (297)           19            47
                                                        ------------------------------------
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH                               (1,280)          506        (2,418)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year             9,098         8,592        11,010
                                                        ------------------------------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR                $  7,818      $  9,098      $  8,592
                                                        ====================================

<FN>





See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.



</TABLE>


<PAGE>   20
                                   PAGE 20


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Thousands of dollars, except share amounts)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Organization and Consolidation

   OM Group, Inc. (the Company) and its operating subsidiaries manufacture and
sell metal carboxylates, salts, and powders that are primarily derived from
cobalt and nickel. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Inventories

   Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and are principally
valued using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method.

Property, Plant and Equipment

   Property, plant and equipment is recorded at historical cost less accumulated
depreciation. Depreciation of plant and equipment is provided by the
straight-line method over the useful lives of the various classes of assets.
Long-lived assets are assessed for impairment when operating profits for the
related business indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Research and Development

   Selling, general and administrative expenses include research and development
costs of $3,756, $3,413 and $2,791 in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

Income Taxes

   Deferred income taxes are provided to recognize the effect of temporary
differences between financial and tax reporting arising principally from
different depreciation methods and inventory reserves. Deferred income taxes are
not provided for undistributed earnings of foreign consolidated subsidiaries, to
the extent such earnings are reinvested for an indefinite period of time.

Foreign Currency Translation

   The functional currency for the Company's Kokkola, Finland subsidiary is the
U.S. dollar since a majority of its purchases and sales are denominated in U.S.
dollars and it holds a significant intercompany note payable, denominated in
U.S. dollars. Accordingly, foreign exchange gains and losses related to assets,
liabilities and transactions which are denominated in other currencies
(principally the Finnish Markka) are included in results of operations. The
Company enters into forward contracts to partially hedge its balance sheet
exposure to the Finnish Markka, and accordingly, gains or losses related to the
forward contracts are included in results of operations.

   The functional currency for the Company's other subsidiaries outside of the
United States is the applicable local currency. For those operations, financial
statements are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates as to
assets and liabilities and weighted average exchange rates as to revenues and
expenses. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of
stockholders' equity.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

   Goodwill and other intangibles represent principally the excess of the
acquisition purchase price of businesses acquired over the fair market value of
the net tangible assets acquired. These intangible assets are being amortized on
a straight-line basis over their respective useful lives (fifteen to forty
years). Goodwill is assessed for impairment when operating profits for the
related business indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

Cash Equivalents

   For purposes of the statements of cash flows, all highly liquid investments
with a maturity of three months or less when purchased are considered to be cash
equivalents.

Earnings Per Share

   Earnings per share are computed based on weighted average shares outstanding
and the dilutive effect of stock options outstanding as discussed in Note F.

Stock Options and Compensation Plans

   The Company grants stock options for a fixed number of shares to certain
employees with an exercise price equal to the fair value of the shares at the
date of grant and accounts for stock options using the intrinsic value method.
Accordingly, compensation expense is not recognized for the stock option grants.

   Beginning in 1995, non-employee members of the Board of Directors were
eligible to receive their annual retainer in the form of cash, stock options, or
restricted stock. Directors may purchase stock options for a price equal to the
difference between the exercise price (75% of fair market value on date of
grant) and the fair market value per share. Restricted shares may be purchased
at a price equal to fair market value per share. Also, directors electing to
receive restricted stock receive additional restricted stock equal to 5% of
their applied cash compensation. Accordingly, compensation expense is recognized
for stock option and restricted share grants elected by eligible directors.
<PAGE>   21
                                   PAGE 21

Use of Estimates

   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions in
certain circumstances that affect the amounts reported in the accompanying
consolidated financial statements and notes. Actual results could differ from
these estimates. 

B. INVENTORIES
Current inventories consist of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                        December 31,                        1996           1995
                        -------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                    <C>            <C>      
                        Raw materials and supplies     $ 116,389      $  99,853
                        Finished goods                    87,980         74,715
                                                       ------------------------
                                                         204,369        174,568
                        LIFO reserve                      (9,319)       (35,501)
                                                       ------------------------
                        Total inventories              $ 195,050      $ 139,067
                                                       ========================
</TABLE>

   Unprocessed inventory represents cobalt slag feedstock. A twelve-month supply
of the cobalt slag feedstock is included in inventory; the remainder of the slag
is classified as non-current unprocessed inventory. The cost of the cobalt
obtained is based upon prevailing market prices.

C. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Long-term debt consists of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                   December 31,                               1996        1995
                   ------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                         <C>          <C>    
                   Notes payable to banks                   $ 79,000     $56,000
                   Notes payable to insurance companies       30,000      30,000
                   Business acquisition debt                   3,447       8,510
                   Other                                         434         598
                                                            -------------------
                                                             112,881      95,108
                   Less: Current portion                       3,586       5,263
                                                            -------------------
                   Total long-term debt                     $109,295     $89,845
                                                            ===================
</TABLE>

   At December 31, 1996, the Company had a $120 million revolving credit
facility with a group of banks, with variable interest rates based upon either
the agent bank's rate or LIBOR plus a .35% to .75% margin, at the Company's
option. Under the credit agreement, the Company must exceed a minimum predefined
working capital ratio and meet certain funded debt ratios. There are also
covenants which restrict the dividend paying and borrowing capability of the
Company.

   In connection with with the acquisition of SCM (as described further in Note
I), the Company's revolving credit facility, which expires in 2002, was further
expanded to $240 million in January, 1997, with a $10 million sublimit for
letters of credit.

   The Company has an interest rate swap agreement to convert the variable
interest rates on an aggregate contract amount of $30 million to a fixed rate of
7.28% plus .35% to .75% for a three year period ending December 20, 1997. The
combined effective rate of the Company's bank borrowings and the related swap
agreement was approximately 7.1% at December 31, 1996. The net interest paid or
received on the interest rate swap is included in interest expense. The
counterparties to the interest rate swap are international commercial banks. At
December 31, 1996, the fair value of the interest rate swap based upon current
settlement prices approximated $471 payable.

   During 1995, the Company borrowed $30 million from a group of insurance
companies through a private placement. The borrowings bear interest at 7.38% and
are due August 30, 2005. Under the terms of the note purchase agreement, the
Company must meet certain interest coverage and funded debt ratios. There are
also covenants which restrict the dividend paying and borrowing capability of
the Company.

   In connection with several business acquisitions during 1995, the Company
issued notes payable with a combined effective rate of 8.9%. The balance on
these notes is due in 1997.

<PAGE>   22
                                   PAGE 22


   Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt for the five years following
December 31, 1996 are as follows: 1997 - $3,586; 1998 - $148; 1999 - $147; $0 in
2000 and $0 in 2001. Interest paid was $7,056, $4,454 and $3,056 for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. At December 31, 1996, the
carrying value of the Company's debt approximated its fair value.

   The Company enters into forward contracts to purchase Finnish Markka to
partially hedge its balance sheet exposure to rate fluctuations between the
Finnish Markka and the U.S. Dollar. At December 31, 1996, the fair value of the
forward contracts, based on the current settlement price, approximated $220
payable, which was recorded in results of operations. 

D. INCOME TAXES

Income before income taxes consists of the following: 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                   Year Ended December 31,         1996       1995        1994
                   -------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>         <C>         <C>    
                   United States                 $ 1,384     $ 4,654     $ 9,022
                   Outside the United States      43,019      33,864      22,006
                                                 ------------------------------
                                                 $44,403     $38,518     $31,028
                                                 ===============================

Income taxes are summarized as follows:
                   Year Ended December 31,         1996        1995       1994
                   -------------------------------------------------------------
                   Current:
                    United States:
                     Federal                     $   923     $ 2,158     $ 2,508
                     State and local                 258          85         604
                   Outside the United States       5,334       8,790       4,212
                                                 ------------------------------
                                                   6,515      11,033       7,324
                 Deferred:
                   United States                     644         949         914
                   Outside the United States       7,197         603       2,048
                                                 ------------------------------
                                                   7,841       1,552       2,962
                                                 ------------------------------
                                                 $14,356     $12,585     $10,286
                                                 ===============================

Significant components of the Company's deferred income taxes are as follows:
                   December 31,                                 1996        1995
                   -------------------------------------------------------------

                   Current - Principally 
                     inventories                             $ 2,835     $(3,671)
                   Long-term - Principally 
                     accelerated depreciation                 17,773      18,597
                                                             ------------------
                                                             $20,608     $14,926
                                                             ===================

A reconciliation of income taxes computed at the United States statutory rate 
to the effective income tax rate follows:
                   Year Ended December 31,          1996        1995        1994
                   -------------------------------------------------------------
                   Income taxes at the United 
                     States statutory rate          35.0%       35.0%       35.0%
                   State income taxes, net of 
                     federal tax benefit              .4          .1         1.4
                   Effective tax rate 
                     differential of earnings
                     outside of the United States   (5.7)       (7.2)       (3.9)
                   Change in statutory tax rate 
                     outside of the United States                1.8
                   Adjustment of worldwide tax 
                     liabilities                     2.2         2.9
                   Other--net                         .4          .1          .7
                                                    ----------------------------
                                                    32.3%       32.7%       33.2%
                                                    ============================

</TABLE>



<PAGE>   23
                                   PAGE 23


   The Company has not provided additional United States income taxes on
approximately $80 million of undistributed earnings of consolidated foreign
subsidiaries included in stockholders' equity. Such earnings could become
taxable upon the sale or liquidation of these foreign subsidiaries or upon
dividend repatriation. The Company's intent is for such earnings to be
reinvested by the subsidiaries or to be repatriated only when it would be tax
effective through the utilization of foreign tax credits. It is not practicable
to estimate the amount of unrecognized withholding taxes and deferred tax
liability on such earnings.

   Income tax payments were $14,129, $5,060, and $4,082 during the years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

E. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company sponsors a non-contributory, qualified profit sharing plan covering
all United States employees. Company contributions are determined by the Board
of Directors based upon participant compensation. The Company also sponsors a
non-contributory, non-qualified supplemental executive retirement plan for
certain employees, providing benefits beyond those covered in the qualified
profit sharing plan. Aggregate plan expenses were $1,727, $1,388, and $1,160 in
1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

   The Company provides health care benefits upon retirement for certain United
States employees with a specified number of years of service. The estimated cost
of their benefits is actuarially determined and accrued over the employees'
service periods as a level percentage of compensation for employees expected to
qualify for benefits.

   Expenses for postretirement benefits other than pensions are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                      Year Ended December 31,     1996         1995         1994
                      ----------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>           <C>          <C>
                      Service cost                $ 27          $16          $15
                      Interest cost                 84           75           63
                                                  ------------------------------
                                                  $111          $91          $78
                                                  ==============================
</TABLE>

   The liability recognized in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31,
1996 for postretirement benefit obligations other than pensions is $827 ($761 at
December 31, 1995). For measurement purposes, a 9.55% blended annual rate of
increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed,
grading ratably to 5.9% through 2006. An increase of 1% in assumed health care
cost trend rates would increase the accumulated benefit obligation as of
December 31, 1996 by $155 and the aggregate annual service and interest cost by
$16. The discount rate used in determining the accumulated benefit obligation as
of December 31, 1996 and 1995 was 7.75%. 

F. COMMON STOCK AND STOCK OPTIONS 

On November 5, 1996, the Board of Directors approved a three-for-two stock split
of its common stock, in the form of a stock dividend, with one additional common
share issued December 2, 1996 for every two common shares held by shareholders
of record on November 15, 1996. All share and per share information included in
the accompanying financial statements have been retroactively adjusted to give
effect to the split.

   On November 5, 1996, the Board of Directors declared a dividend distribution
of one Right for each outstanding share of common stock to stockholders of
record on November 15, 1996. Each Right entitles the shareholder to purchase one
one-hundredth share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock at a purchase
price of $160 per share, subject to adjustment.

   The Rights are not currently exercisable, but would become exercisable if
certain events occurred relating to a person or group (Acquiring Person)
acquiring or attempting to acquire 15% or more of the outstanding shares of
common stock. In the event that the Rights become exercisable, each Right
(except for Rights beneficially owned by the Acquiring Person, which become null
and void) would entitle the holder to purchase for the exercise price then in
effect, shares of the Company's common stock having a value of twice the
exercise price.

   The Rights may be redeemed by the Board of Directors in whole, but not in
part, at a price of $0.01 per Right. The Rights have no voting or dividend
privileges and are attached to, and do not trade separately from the common
stock. The Rights expire on November 14, 2006.

   The Company's Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan has authorized the grant
of options to management personnel for up to 1,523,438 shares of the Company's
common stock. All options granted have 10 year terms and vest and become fully
exercisable at the end of the fiscal year following the year of grant.



<PAGE>   24
                                   PAGE 24


   Pro forma information regarding net income and earnings per share is required
by FASB Statement No. 123, "Accounting for Stock Based Compensation," and has
been determined as if the Company had accounted for its employee stock options
under the fair value method of that Statement. The fair value of these options
was estimated at the date of grant using a Black-Scholes options pricing model
with the following weighted-average assumptions for 1996 and 1995: risk-free
interest rate of 6.5%; dividend yield of 1.2%; the volatility factor of the
expected market price of the Company's common stock of .20; and a
weighted-average expected life of the option of 5 years.

   For purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the
options is amortized to expense over the options' vesting period. The Company's
pro forma information follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        1996                1995
           --------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>              <C>       
           Pro forma net income                   $28,874          $25,782
           Pro forma earnings per share:
             Primary                              $  1.50          $  1.35
             Fully diluted                        $  1.50          $  1.34
</TABLE>

   A summary of the Company's stock option activity, and related information for
the years ended December 31 follows: 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          1996                      1995                      1994
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Weighted                   Weighted                 Weighted
                                                Average                    Average                  Average
                                  Options      Exercise     Options       Exercise      Options    Exercise
                                                  Price                      Price                    Price
                                ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>              <C>        <C>             <C>         <C>          <C>   
Outstanding at January 1        1,061,656        $ 9.94     900,101         $ 7.65      736,851      $ 6.47
   Granted                        202,860         25.96     208,055          18.72      163,250       13.00
   Exercised                      (17,355)         9.19     (46,500)          5.04
   Forfeited                       (4,082)        12.25
                                ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding at December 31      1,243,079        $12.55   1,061,656         $ 9.94      900,101      $ 7.65
                                ===========================================================================
Exercisable at end of year      1,055,579        $10.05     878,168         $ 7.89      736,851      $ 6.47
Weighted-average fair value of
   options granted during the year               $ 7.37                     $ 5.46
</TABLE>

The weighted-average remaining contractual life of these options outstanding is
7.2 years.

G. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES 

The Company's Finnish operating subsidiary has agreed to take shipment of 43,000
wet metric tons of Zairian cobalt and nickel slag from La Generale des Carrieres
et des Mines (Gecamines) in 1997. The cost of the cobalt obtained will be
based upon the prevailing market price as material is processed.

   The Company is a party to various legal proceedings incidental to its
business and is subject to a variety of environmental and pollution control laws
and regulations in the jurisdictions in which it operates. As is the case with
other companies in similar industries, the Company faces exposure from actual or
potential claims and legal proceedings involving environmental matters. Although
it is difficult to quantify the potential impact of compliance with or liability
under environmental protection laws, management believes that the ultimate
aggregate cost to the Company of environmental remediation, as well as other
legal proceedings arising out of operations in the normal course of business,
will not result in a material adverse effect upon its financial condition or
results of operations.



<PAGE>   25
                                   PAGE 25


H. BUSINESS AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

The Company operates in a single business segment serving numerous customers and
industries; its operations are located principally in the United States and
Finland. Financial information by geographic area is summarized as follows: 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                          Year Ended 
                          December 31,        1996         1995         1994
                          ------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>          <C>          <C>      
                          Net sales:
                            United States   $ 160,507    $ 149,114    $ 119,470
                            Finland           219,754      202,114      125,740
                            Other               7,738        9,731        6,065
                                            -----------------------------------
                                            $ 387,999    $ 360,959    $ 251,275
                                            ===================================
                          Operating profit:
                            United States      13,781       12,108       12,706
                            Finland            44,063       37,227       26,200
                            Other                 304          504         (177)
                            Corporate 
                             administrative 
                                expense        (6,727)      (5,870)      (3,568)
                                            -----------------------------------
                                               51,421       43,969       35,161

                          Other expense        (7,018)      (5,451)      (4,133)
                                            -----------------------------------
                          Income before 
                             income taxes   $  44,403    $  38,518    $  31,028
                                            ===================================

                          December 31,                     1996         1995
                          -----------------------------------------------------
                          Identifiable assets:
                            United States                $ 161,945    $ 141,422
                            Finland                        270,013      209,576
                            Other                            6,675        7,044
                                                         ----------------------
                                                         $ 438,633    $ 358,042
                                                         ======================
</TABLE>

I. SUBSEQUENT EVENT 

On January 21, 1997, pursuant to a Stock Purchase Agreement dated December 20,
1996, the Company acquired SCM Metal Products, Inc., a subsidiary of U.S.
Industries, Inc. SCM, with annual sales in fiscal 1996 of approximately $94
million, is one of the world's leading producers of specialty chemicals and
powders, principally specialty powders primarily from copper, iron and  
stainless steel. The total consideration paid by the Company for SCM was $122
million, financed entirely through bank borrowings. The Company is considering
other longer term financing options. The acquisition, which is not reflected in
the accompanying financial statements, will be accounted for by the purchase
method of accounting.




<PAGE>   26
                                   PAGE 26


J. QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Quarter Ended                           March 31             June 30       September 30         December 31
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                          <C>                       <C>                 <C>                <C>     
1996
Net sales                               $102,853            $101,485            $89,071            $ 94,590
Gross profit                              20,211              21,030             20,905              21,828
Income from operations                    12,258              13,084             13,036              13,043
Net income                                 7,151               7,583              7,670               7,643
Net income per share                    $    .37            $    .39            $   .40            $    .40
Market price: high-low           25 1/8 - 21 5/8         28 - 24 1/2    27 3/8 - 22 3/4     28 3/4 - 25 3/8
Dividends paid per share                $    .07            $    .07            $   .07            $    .07

1995
Net sales                               $ 89,429            $ 84,974            $80,967            $105,589
Gross profit                              17,547              19,131             18,477              19,408
Income from operations                    10,218              11,553             11,099              11,099
Net income                                 6,090               6,722              6,606               6,515
Net income per share                    $    .32            $    .35            $   .35            $    .34
Market price: high-low           16 5/8 - 14 1/2     19 1/2 - 15 3/8    21 3/8 - 18 5/8     22 3/8 - 18 7/8
Dividends paid per share                $    .06            $    .06            $   .06            $    .06


</TABLE>

Report of Independent Auditors
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OM GROUP, INC.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of OM Group, Inc.
as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements of
income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1996. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

   We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

   In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the consolidated financial position of OM Group, Inc. at
December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated results of its operations and
its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31,
1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.


/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Cleveland, Ohio
January 30, 1997



<PAGE>   27
                                    PAGE 27



                                   SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Annual Report on Form 10-K be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                     OM GROUP, INC.


                                     By: /s/ James P. Mooney
                                         -------------------------------------
                                         James P. Mooney
                                         Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual
Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE                                   TITLE                                                       DATE

<S>                                        <C>                                                    <C>
/s/ James P. Mooney                         Chairman and Chief Executive Officer                   March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
James P. Mooney

/s/ Eugene Bak*                             Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
Eugene Bak

/s/ Markku Toivanen*                        Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
Markku Toivanen

/s/ Lee R. Brodeur*                         Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
Lee R. Brodeur

/s/ Thomas R. Miklich*                      Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
Thomas R. Miklich

/s/ John E. Mooney*                         Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
John E. Mooney

/s/ Frank Butler*                           Director                                               March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
Frank Butler

/s/ James M. Materna                        Chief Financial Officer (Principal                     March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                  Financial and Accounting Officer)                      --------------
James M. Materna                         

/s/ James P. Mooney                                                                                March 21, 1997
- --------------------------                                                                         --------------
James P. Mooney
Attorney-in-Fact


James P. Mooney, by signing his name hereto signs this document on behalf of
each of the persons so indicated above pursuant to powers of attorney duly
executed by such persons and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
</TABLE>



<PAGE>   28

                                 EXHIBIT INDEX


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT NO.                  EXHIBIT
- -----------                  -------

<S>              <C>
4.2              Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of January
                 21, 1997 among National City Bank, as Agent, ABN Amro Bank N.V., 
                 Key Bank National Association, Mellon Bank, N.A. and OM Group, Inc.

10.42            Employment Agreement of Terry Guckes

10.44            Stock Purchase Agreement between SUSI Corporation and OM Group,
                 Inc. dated December 20, 1996

11               Statement Regarding Computation of Earnings Per Share

21               List of Subsidiaries

23               Consent of Ernst & Young LLP

24               Power of Attorney

27               Financial Data Schedule
</TABLE>






<PAGE>   1

                                                                  Exhibit 4.2

                                                                  EXECUTION COPY





                          SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED

                                CREDIT AGREEMENT


                                  by and among

                                 OM GROUP, INC.

                                      and

                               NATIONAL CITY BANK

                               ABN AMRO BANK N.V.

                          KEYBANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

                               MELLON BANK, N.A.

                                      and

                          NATIONAL CITY BANK, as Agent

                                January 21, 1997


                         $240,000,000 Total Commitment


                   Initial Revolving Commitment: $120,000,000
                    Letters of Credit Sublimit: $10,000,000
                         Term Commitment: $120,000,000
   with provision for increasing the Revolving Commitment to an aggregate of
        $240,000,000 upon certain conditions to refinance the outstanding
                                   Term Loans


                       Expiration Date: January 31, 2002
                      with provision for annual extension

<PAGE>   2



                               Table of Contents
                               -----------------

1A.     CROSS-REFERENCE ................................................    1 

1B.     SUMMARY ........................................................    1

2A.     TERM LOAN ......................................................    1
        2A.01   TERM NOTE ..............................................    2
        2A.02   AMORTIZATION/REFINANCING ...............................    2



 ........................................................................    2
        2A.03   INTEREST: PR LOANS .....................................    2
        2A.04   INTEREST: LIBOR LOANS ..................................    2
        2A.05   CLOSING FEE ............................................    3


        2A.06   DELAYED REPAYMENT FEE ..................................    3


2B.     REVOLVING COMMITMENTS -- The basic terms of the Revolving Commitments
and the compensation therefor are as follows:

        2B.01   AMOUNT .................................................    3
        2B.02   EXPIRATION .............................................    4
        2B.03   OPTIONAL REDUCTIONS ....................................    4
        2B.04   COMMITMENT FEE .........................................    5
        2B.05   EXTENSION OF REVOLVING COMMITMENT ......................    6
        2B.06   MANDATORY REDUCTIONS ...................................    6

2C.     REVOLVING LOANS ................................................    6
        2C.02   CREDIT REQUESTS ........................................    7
        2C.03   CONDITION: NO DEFAULT ..................................    7
        2C.04   INTEREST: PR LOANS .....................................    8
        2C.05   INTEREST: LIBOR LOANS ..................................    8

2D.     GENERAL LOAN PROVISIONS ........................................    9
        2D.01   CONDITION: PURPOSE .....................................   10
        2D.02   LOAN MIX ...............................................   10
        2D.03   AMOUNTS ................................................   10
        2D.04   LIBOR CONTRACT PERIODS .................................   10
        2D.05   MATURITIES .............................................   11
        2D.06   ROLLOVER OR REFINANCING OF REVOLVING LOANS .............   12
        2D.07   CONTINUATION/CONVERSION OF TERM LOANS ..................   12
        2D.08   PREPAYMENTS ............................................   13

<PAGE>   3


        2D.09   DISBURSEMENT ..........................................    14
        2D.10   LIBOR LOANS: UNAVAILABILITY ...........................    14
        2D.11   LIBOR LOANS: ILLEGALITY ...............................    15
        2E.01   RATABLE PARTICIPATION .................................    15
        2E.02   MAXIMUM ...............................................    15
        2E.03   TERM ..................................................    15
        2E.04   FORM AND SUBSTANCE ....................................    15
        2E.05   CREDIT REQUESTS AND REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENTS ..........    16
        2E.06   COMMISSION ............................................    16
        2E.07   PAYMENT OF DRAFTS .....................................    16

        2E.08   CHANGE OF LAW .........................................    16
        3A.01   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ..................................    17
        3A.02   NOTICE ................................................    19

3B.     GENERAL FINANCIAL STANDARDS ...................................    20
        3B.01   FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/CAPITAL ...........................    20
        3B.02   CURRENT RATIO .........................................    21
        3B.03   FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/EBITDA ............................    21

3C.     AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS .........................................    21
        3C.01   TAXES .................................................    21
        3C.02   FINANCIAL RECORDS .....................................    21
        3C.03   VISITATION ............................................    21
        3C.04   INSURANCE .............................................    22
        3C.05   CORPORATE EXISTENCE ...................................    22
        3C.06   COMPLIANCE WITH LAW ...................................    22
        3C.07   PROPERTIES ............................................    23
        3C.08   QUALIFICATION TO DO BUSINESS ..........................    23
        3C.09   APPLICATION OF NET OFFERING PROCEEDS ..................    23

3D.     NEGATIVE COVENANTS ............................................    23
        3D.01   EQUITY AND ASSET TRANSACTIONS .........................    23
        3D.02   CREDIT EXTENSIONS .....................................    25
        3D.03   BORROWINGS ............................................    26
        3D.04   LIENS, LEASES .........................................    26
        3D.05   DIVIDENDS .............................................    28
        3D.06   CHANGE IN NATURE OF BUSINESS ..........................    28
        3D.07   ACCOUNTING CHANGES ....................................    28
        3D.08   AMENDMENT; DEFAULT OF MATERIAL CONTRACTS ..............    28
        3D.09   USE OF PROCEEDS .......................................    28
        3D.10   ADVERSE OBLIGATIONS; LABOR DISPUTES ...................    28

4A.     CLOSING .......................................................    29
        4A.01   NOTES .................................................    29
<PAGE>   4

        4A.02   RESOLUTIONS/INCUMBENCY ................................    29
        4A.03   LEGAL OPINION .........................................    29
        4A.04   CONSUMMATION OF ACQUISITION ...........................    29
        4A.05   ACQUISITION DOCUMENTS .................................    29
        4A.06   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ..................................    30
        4A.07   DOCUMENTATION FEE .....................................    30
        4A.08   CLOSING FEE ...........................................    30
        4A.09   OTHER DOCUMENTS .......................................    30

4B.     REPRESENTATIONS/WARRANTIES ....................................    31
        4B.01   EXISTENCE .............................................    31
        4B.02   GOVERNMENTAL RESTRICTIONS .............................    31
        4B.03   POWER,  AUTHORIZATION  AND  CONSENT;
          ENFORCEABILITY ..............................................    31
        4B.04   LITIGATION; PROCEEDINGS ...............................    32
        4B.05   TAXES .................................................    32
        4B.06   TITLE .................................................    32
        4B.07   LAWFUL OPERATIONS .....................................    32
        4B.08   INSURANCE .............................................    32
        4B.09   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ..................................    32
        4B.10   INDEBTEDNESS ..........................................    33
        4B.11   ERISA .................................................    33
        4B.12   ADVERSE OBLIGATIONS; LABOR DISPUTES ...................    33
        4B.13   SOLVENCY ..............................................    33
        4B.14   INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT STATUS .........................    33
        4B.15   REGULATION U/REGULATION X COMPLIANCE ..................    34
        4B.16   ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY MATTERS ......................    34
        4B.17   REAL PROPERTY .........................................    34
        4B.18   LEASES ................................................    34
        4B.19   INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY .................................    35
        4B.20   DEFAULTS ..............................................    35
        4B.21   NOTEHOLDERS AND NOTE PURCHASE AGREEMENT ...............    35
        4B.22   FULL DISCLOSURE .......................................    35
        4B.23   CONSUMMATION OF ACQUISITION ...........................    35

4C.     CLOSING .......................................................    35

5A.     EVENTS  OF DEFAULT ............................................    35
        5A.01   PAYMENTS ..............................................    35
        5A.02   WARRANTIES ............................................    36
        5A.03   COVENANTS WITHOUT GRACE ...............................    36
        5A.04   COVENANTS WITH GRACE ..................................    36
        5A.05   CROSS-DEFAULT .........................................    36
        5A.06   CONTROL ...............................................    36
        5A.07   BORROWER'S SOLVENCY ...................................    37
        5A.08   SUBSIDIARIES' SOLVENCY ................................    37
        5A.09   JUDGMENTS .............................................    37

<PAGE>   5


        5A.10   MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE ...............................    37

5B.     EFFECTS OF DEFAULT ............................................    37
        5B.01   OPTIONAL DEFAULTS .....................................    37
        5B.02   AUTOMATIC DEFAULTS ....................................    38
        5B.03   OFFSETS ...............................................    38
        5B.04   EQUALIZATION ..........................................    38

6A.     INDEMNITY: STAMP TAXES ........................................    39
                   
6B.     INDEMNITY: GOVERNMENTAL COSTS/LIBOR-RATE LOANS ................    39
                   
6C.     INDEMNITY: FUNDING COSTS ......................................    39

6D.     CREDIT REQUESTS ...............................................    39

6E.     INDEMNITY: UNFRIENDLY TAKEOVERS ...............................    40

6F.     INDEMNITY: CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS ...............................    40

6G.     INDEMNITY: COLLECTION COSTS ...................................    40

6H.     CERTIFICATE FOR INDEMNIFICATION ...............................    40

7A.     BANK'S PURPOSE ................................................    41

7B.     NCB-AGENT .....................................................    41
        7B.01   NATURE OF APPOINTMENT .................................    41
        7B.02   NCB AS A BANK; OTHER TRANSACTIONS .....................    41
        7B.03   INSTRUCTION FROM BANKS ................................    41
        7B.04   BANKS' DILIGENCE ......................................    42
        7B.05   NO IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS ............................    42
        7B.06   SUB-AGENTS ............................................    42
        7B.07   NCB-AGENT'S DILIGENCE .................................    42
        7B.08   NOTICE OF DEFAULT .....................................    42
        7B.09   NCB-AGENT'S LIABILITY .................................    42
        7B.10   COMPENSATION ..........................................    43
        7B.11   DISBURSEMENTS .........................................    43
        7B.12   NCB-AGENT'S INDEMNITY .................................    43
        7B.13   RESIGNATION ...........................................    43

7C.     TRANSFER OF SUBJECT LOANS .....................................    44
        7C.01   PRIOR CONSENT .........................................    44
        7C.02   AGREEMENT .............................................    44
        7C.03   NOTE ..................................................    44
        7C.04   PARTIES ...............................................    44
        7C.05   PROCESSING FEE ........................................    44
<PAGE>   6

7D.     PARTICIPATION OF SUBJECT LOANS ................................    44

8.      INTERPRETATION ................................................    45
        8.01    WAIVERS ...............................................    45
        8.02    CUMULATIVE PROVISIONS .................................    45
        8.03    BINDING EFFECT ........................................    45
        8.04    SURVIVAL OF PROVISIONS ................................    46
        8.05    IMMEDIATE U.S. FUNDS ..................................    46
        8.06    CAPTIONS ..............................................    46
        8.07    SUBSECTIONS ...........................................    46
        8.08    ILLEGALITY ............................................    46
        8.09    OHIO LAW ..............................................    46
        8.10    INTEREST/FEE COMPUTATIONS .............................    46
        8.11    NOTICE ................................................    46
        8.12    ACCOUNTING TERMS ......................................    47
        8.13    ENTIRE AGREEMENT ......................................    47
        8.14    WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL ..................................    47
        8.15    LATE CHARGE; APPLICATION OF PAYMENTS ..................    47
        8.16    EXPENSES ..............................................    47
        8.17    JURISDICTION AND VENUE ................................    48
        8.18    AMBIGUITIES ...........................................    48
        8.19    OTHER WAIVERS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT ......................    48
        8.20    CONFIDENTIALITY .......................................    49

9.      DEFINITIONS ...................................................    49
        Acceptable Marketable Securities ..............................    49
        --------------------------------    
        Account Officer ...............................................    49
        ---------------                                                    
        Accumulated Funding Deficiency ................................    50
        ------------------------------                                       
        Acquisition ...................................................    50
        -----------                                                          
        Acquisition Agreement .........................................    50
        ---------------------                                                
        Acquisition Documents .........................................    50
        ---------------------                                                
        Acquisition Projections .......................................    50
        -----------------------                                              
        Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio .....................    50
        -----------------------------------------                            
        Advantage .....................................................    50
        ---------                                                            
        Affiliate .....................................................    50
        ---------                                                            
        Agreement .....................................................    50
        ---------                                                            
        Bank ..........................................................    50
        ----                                                                 
        Banking Day ...................................................    50
        -----------                                                          
        Borrower ......................................................    51
        --------                                                             
        CERCLA ........................................................    51
        ------                                                               
        Company .......................................................    51
        -------                                                              
        and Companies .................................................    51
            ---------                                                        
        Compensation ..................................................    51
        ------------                                                         
        Conversion/Continuation Request ...............................    51
        -------------------------------                                      
        Credit Request ................................................    51
        --------------                                                       
        Current Assets ................................................    51
        --------------                                                       
        Current Guarantors ............................................    51
        ------------------                                                   
<PAGE>   7

        Current Liabilities ...........................................    51
        -------------------
        Debt ..........................................................    51
        ----
        Default Under ERISA ...........................................    51
        -------------------
        Default Under This Agreement ..................................    52
        ----------------------------
        Distribution ..................................................    52
        ------------
        EBITDA ........................................................    52
        ------
        Environmental Law .............................................    52
        -----------------
        ERISA .........................................................    52
        -----
        ERISA Affiliate ...............................................    52 
        ---------------
        ERISA Regulator ...............................................    52 
        ---------------
        Eurocurrency Liabilities ......................................    52 
        ------------------------
        Eurocurrency Reserve Percentage ...............................    53 
        ------------------------------- 
        Event Of Default ..............................................    53 
        ----------------
        Expiration Date ...............................................    53 
        ---------------
        Federal Funds Rate ............................................    53 
        ------------------
        Funded Indebtedness ...........................................    53 
        -------------------
        Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio ..............................    54 
        --------------------------------
        GAAP ..........................................................    54 
        ----
        Guarantor .....................................................    54 
        ---------
        Insider .......................................................    54 
        -------
        Insolvency Action .............................................    54 
        -----------------
        LIBOR Contract Period .........................................    54 
        ---------------------
        LIBOR Loan ....................................................    54 
        ----------
        LIBOR Pre-Margin Rate .........................................    55 
        ---------------------
        Material Contract .............................................    55 
        -----------------
        Maturity ......................................................    55 
        --------
        Maximum Outstanding Amount ....................................    56 
        --------------------------
        Most Recent 4A.04 Financial Statements ........................    56 
        --------------------------------------
        NCB ...........................................................    56 
        ---
        Net Income ....................................................    56 
        ----------
        Net Offering Proceeds .........................................    56 
        ---------------------
        Note Purchase Agreement .......................................    56 
        -----------------------
        Noteholders ...................................................    56
        -----------
        Pension Plan ..................................................    56 
        ------------
        Person ........................................................    56 
        ------ 
        Post-Refinancing Amount .......................................    56 
        -----------------------
        PR Loan .......................................................    56 
        -------
        Prime Rate ....................................................    56 
        ----------
        Prior Credit Agreement ........................................    57 
        ----------------------
        Proforma Covenant Compliance ..................................    57 
        ----------------------------
        Projections ...................................................    57 
        -----------
        Ratable and Ratably ...........................................    57 
        -------     -------
        Refinancing ...................................................    57 
        -----------
        Refinancing Date ..............................................    57 
        -----------------
        Refinanced Amount .............................................    57 
        -----------------
        Reimbursement Agreement .......................................    57 
        -----------------------
        Related Writing ...............................................    57 
        ---------------
<PAGE>   8
                                                    
        Reportable Event ..............................................    58
        ----------------                                                     
        Required Banks ................................................    58
        --------------                                                       
        Revolving Commitment ..........................................    58
        --------------------                                                 
        Revolving Loan ................................................    58
        --------------                                                       
        Revolving Series ..............................................    58
        ----------------                                                     
        Seller ........................................................    58
        ------                                                               
        Series ........................................................    58
        ------                                                               
        Stockholders' Equity ..........................................    58
        --------------------                                                 
        Subject Indebtedness ..........................................    58
        --------------------                                                 
        Subject LC ....................................................    59
        ----------                                                           
        Subject Loan ..................................................    59
        ------------                                                         
        Subject Note ..................................................    59
        ------------                                                         
        Subordinated ..................................................    59
        ------------                                                         
        Subsidiary ....................................................    59
        ----------                                                           
        Supplemental Schedule .........................................    59
        ---------------------                                                
        Target ........................................................    59
        ------                                                               
        Term Note .....................................................    59
        ---------                                                            
        Term Series ...................................................    59
        -----------                                                          
        Type ..........................................................    59
        ----                                                                 
        Total Liabilities .............................................    59
        -----------------                                                  
        plurals .......................................................    59

10.     EXECUTION .....................................................    60
EXHIBIT A:      Supplemental Schedule (4B)
EXHIBIT B:      Form of Term Note (2A.01; 4A.01)
EXHIBIT C:      Form of Revolving Note (2C.01; 4A.01)
EXHIBIT D:      Form of Extension Agreement (2B.05)
EXHIBIT E:      Form of Credit Request (2C.02)
EXHIBIT F:      Form of Conversion/Continuation Request (2D.07)
EXHIBIT G:      List of Subsidiaries (4B.01)


<PAGE>   9








                  SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
                  --------------------------------------------



This Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (this "Agreement") is made as
of January 21, 1997 by and among OM GROUP, INC. ("Borrower") and the Banks named
in section 2A below (the "Banks") and NATIONAL CITY BANK as agent (in that
capacity, "NCB-Agent") of the Banks for the purposes of this Agreement and the
Related Writings:

1A.  CROSS-REFERENCE -- Certain capitalized terms and phrases used but not
otherwise defined in the body hereof are defined in section 9 below.

1B.  SUMMARY -- This Agreement

     (a) provides that concurrently with the execution and delivery of this
     Agreement the Banks shall disburse the Term Loan described in section 2A,

     (b) sets forth the terms and conditions upon which Borrower may, so long as
     the Revolving Commitments remain in effect, obtain the Revolving Loans
     described in sections 2B and 2C until the Expiration Date,

     (c) provides means whereby Borrower may, if the Banks in each case consent,
     from time to time until January 21, 2001, have issued for Borrower's
     account standby letters of credit, and

     (d) sets forth the covenants and warranties made by the parties to induce
     the other parties hereto to enter into this Agreement.

This Agreement replaces the Prior Credit Agreement.

2A.  TERM LOANS -- Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement,
concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Banks agree
to make (subject to the maximum Term Loan amounts set forth below, (a) one time
term loans in an aggregate principal amount of One Hundred Twenty Million
Dollars ($120,000,000) (the "Term Loans"), the proceeds of which will be
disbursed to the credit of Borrower's general checking account with NCB-Agent in
the absence of written instructions from Borrower to the contrary. The Term
Loans shall be comprised of one or more Term Series, as the Borrower may elect
from time to time by delivery to the Bank of a Conversion/Continuation Request
pursuant to subsection 2D.07 (provided, however that the Term Loans made on the
date of this Agreement must consist entirely of Prime Rate Loans, although
Borrower may subsequently convert such Prime Rate Loans to LIBOR Loans pursuant
to subsection 2D.07). The Term Loans may be prepaid permanently from time to
time pursuant to subsection 2D.08 The amount of each Bank's maximum Term Loan
(subject to such optional prepayment) and the proportion (expressed as a
percentage) that it bears to all of the Term Loans is set forth opposite the
Bank's name below to-wit:


<PAGE>   10


        Max Term Loan     Percentage                Bank
        -------------     ----------                ----

        $42,500,000         35.42%           National City Bank
        $40,000,000         33.33%           ABN AMRO Bank N.V.
        $18,750,000         15.625%     KeyBank National Association
        $18 750 000         15.625%           Mellon Bank, N.A.
        -----------         -------           -----------------
       $120,000,000          100%
       ============          ==== 




2A.01 TERM NOTE -- Each Bank's Term Loan shall be evidenced at all times by a
Term Note executed and delivered by Borrower payable to the order of that Bank
in a principal amount equal to the dollar amount of that Bank's maximum Term
Loan and being in the form and substance of EXHIBIT B with the blanks
appropriately filled.

2A.02 AMORTIZATION/REFINANCING --The aggregate principal balance of the Term
Loans shall become due and payable on the Refinancing Date. Subject to the
satisfaction of the condition set forth in section 4C, on the Refinancing Date,
the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the Term Loans shall be paid in
full, together with any accrued interest thereon, with (a) Net Offering
Proceeds, if any, and (b) proceeds resulting from the increase in the
outstanding aggregate principal balance of the Revolving Loans in an amount
equal to the Refinanced Amount.

2A.03 INTEREST: PR LOANS -- The principal of and overdue interest on each Term
Series comprised of PR Loans shall bear interest payable in arrears on the first
(1st) day of each month, commencing March 1, 1997, and at Maturity and computed
(in accordance with subsection 8.10) at a fluctuating rate equal to the Prime
Rate from time to time in effect, with each change in the Prime Rate
automatically and immediately changing the rate thereafter applicable to any
Term Series comprised of PR Loans; PROVIDED, that in no event shall the rate
applicable to any Term Series comprised of PR Loans at any time after the
Maturity thereof be less than the rate applicable thereto immediately after
Maturity regardless of future reductions in the Prime Rate.

2A.04 INTEREST: LIBOR LOANS -- The principal of and overdue interest on each
Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall bear interest computed (in
accordance with subsection 8.10) and payable as follows:

       (a)  Each Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall bear interest at a
       rate equal to the LIBOR Pre-Margin Rate in effect at the start of the
       applicable LIBOR Contract Period selected by Borrower in the applicable
       Conversion/Continuation Request PLUS the applicable "Margin". The
       applicable "Margin" shall be dependent on the Companies' consolidated
       Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio as of the end of any given
       fiscal quarter and shall be determined as follows:

                                       2
<PAGE>   11

      Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio               Margin
      -----------------------------------------               ------
              >3.00 & <3.25                                   1.25%
                      -
 
              <3.00                                           1.00%
              -

                The interest rate applicable to a Term Series comprised of LIBOR
                Loans prior to Maturity shall initially be equal to the LIBOR
                Pre-Margin Rate plus one percent (1.00%); provided that the
                applicable Margin shall be adjusted quarterly upon the Banks'
                receipt of (i) the financial statements contemplated in
                subsections 3A.01(a) and 3A.0l(b) below and (ii) a corresponding
                certificate complying with subsection 3A.01 (c) based on the
                Companies' consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/ EBITDA
                Ratio as of the end of the respective fiscal quarter and
                effective at the beginning of the first fiscal quarter
                subsequent to such receipt.

                (b) Interest on each Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall
                be payable in arrears on the last day of the LIBOR Contract
                Period applicable thereto and at Maturity.

        2A.05 CLOSING FEE -- In consideration of Banks' efforts in arranging the
        financing and consummating the transactions contemplated by this
        Agreement, at the execution and delivery of this Agreement, Borrower
        agrees to pay a fee in the amount of $210,000 to be shared by the Banks
        Ratably.

        2A.06 DELAYED REPAYMENT FEE -- Borrower hereby agrees that, in the event
        that Borrower fails to complete a public equity offering on or prior to
        April 22, 1997, for which the Net Offering Proceeds are equal to or
        greater than Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000), then Borrower shall,
        on such date, pay a fee in the amount of $180,000 to be shared by the
        Banks Ratably.

2B.     REVOLVING COMMITMENTS -- The basic terms of the Revolving Commitments 
and the compensation therefor are as follows:

        2B.01 AMOUNT -- The aggregate amount of the Revolving Commitments shall
        be: (a) for the period commencing with the date of the execution of this
        Agreement and concluding on the day immediately preceding the
        Refinancing Date, an amount equal to One Hundred Twenty Million Dollars
        ($120,000,000); and (b) for the period commencing with the Refinancing
        Date and concluding on the Expiration Date (as defined in subsection
        2B.02), an amount equal to the lesser of (i) Two Hundred Forty Million
        Dollars ($240,000,000) or (ii) the Post-Refinancing Amount.
        Notwithstanding the foregoing: the Revolving Commitments shall be
        permanently reduced pursuant to subsection 2B.06; the Revolving
        Commitments may be reduced permanently from time to time pursuant to
        subsection 2B.03; and the Revolving Commitments may be terminated
        pursuant to section 5B. The amount of each Bank's maximum Revolving
        Commitment (subject to such reduction or termination) and the proportion
        (expressed as a percentage) that it bears to all of the Revolving
        Commitments is set forth opposite the Bank's name below to-wit:


                                       3
<PAGE>   12

        Max Rev Commitment      Percentage                Bank
        ------------------      ----------                ----

           $85,000,000            35.42%           National City Bank
           $80,000,000            33.33%           ABN AMRO Bank N.V.
           $37,500,000           15.625%     KeyBank National Association
           $37,500 000           15.625%           Mellon Bank. N.A.
          ------------           -------           -----------------
          $240,000,000            100%
          ============            ====


Each Bank agrees, subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, to
participate Ratably in such Subject LCs as may be issued from time to time at
Borrower's request in accordance with section 2E. Pursuant to subsection 2A.02
hereof, as of the Refinancing Date, the remaining aggregate outstanding
principal balance of the Term Loans after application of the Net Offering
Proceeds shall be paid in full by an increase in the outstanding aggregate
principal balance of the Revolving Loans.

        2B.02 EXPIRATION -- Each Revolving Commitment shall become effective as
        of the date of this Agreement and shall remain in effect on a revolving
        basis until January 31, 2002 (the "Expiration Date") EXCEPT that a later
        Expiration Date may be established from time to time pursuant to
        subsection 2B.05 and EXCEPT FURTHER that the Revolving Commitments,
        shall end in any event upon any earlier reduction thereof to zero
        pursuant to subsection 2B.03 or any earlier termination pursuant to
        section 5B.

        2B.03 OPTIONAL REDUCTIONS -- Borrower shall have the right, at all times
        and without the payment of a premium, to reduce the amount of the
        Revolving Commitments permanently in whole or in part by giving
        NCB-Agent notice (to be given not later than 12:00 noon of the Banking
        Day next preceding the effective date of the reduction and either to be
        given in writing or to be promptly confirmed in writing) of the
        aggregate amount by which the Revolving Commitments are to be reduced
        and the effective date of any such reduction, subject, however to the
        following:

              (a) No such reduction shall reduce any Bank's Revolving
              Commitment to a lesser amount than the sum of

                     (1) the aggregate unpaid principal balance of that Bank's
                     Revolving Loans comprised of LIBOR Loans outstanding at
                     that time PLUS

                     (2) the aggregate unpaid principal balance of any of that
                     Bank's Revolving Loans comprised of LIBOR Loans to be
                     obtained pursuant to any unfulfilled Credit Request under
                     subsection 2C.02 PLUS

                     (3) the aggregate undrawn balance of the Subject LCs then
                     outstanding.

              (b) Each such reduction of the Revolving Commitments shall
              aggregate One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) or any multiple
              thereof.



                                       4
<PAGE>   13

              (c) Concurrently with each reduction Borrower shall make a
              principal payment on each Bank's Revolving Loans then
              outstanding in a principal amount equal to the excess of (1) the
              sum of the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the
              Revolving Loans PLUS the aggregate undrawn balance of the
              Subject LCs then outstanding, over (2) the aggregate amount of
              the Revolving Commitments as so reduced. Subsection 2D.08 and
              section 6C shall apply to each such prepayment.

        2B.04 COMMITMENT FEE -- Each Bank shall, so long as its Revolving
        Commitment remains in effect, earn commitment fees for the Revolving
        Commitment attributable to such Bank, the commitment fee shall be (a)
        based on the average daily difference between (i) that Bank's Revolving
        Commitment from time to time in effect and (ii) the sum of (A) that
        Bank's Ratable share of the aggregate undrawn amount of the Subject LCs
        then outstanding PLUS (B) the aggregate unpaid principal balance of that
        Bank's Revolving Loans then outstanding, (b) computed at the rate per
        annum determined by reference to the Companies' consolidated Adjusted
        Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio as of the end of the most recent fiscal
        quarter at the time such fee is due as follows:

              (i) for the period commencing with the date of the execution of
              this Agreement and concluding on the day immediately preceding
              the Refinancing Date

              Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio       Commitment Fee
              -----------------------------------------       --------------    

                            > 3.00 & < 3.25                         .375%
                                     -
                            > 2.50 & < 3.00                         .350%
                                     -
                            > 2.00 & < 2.50                         .300%
                                     -
                            > 1.50 & < 2.00                         .250%
                                     -
                            > 1.00 & < 1.50                         .200%
                                     -
                            < 1.0                                   .150%
                            -


              (ii) for the period commencing with the Refinancing Date and
              concluding on the Expiration Date and in the event that Borrower
              completes a public equity offering for which the Net Offering
              Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty Million Dollars
              ($60,000,000)

              Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio       Commitment Fee
              -----------------------------------------       --------------

                            > 2.00 & < 2.50                         .300%
                                     -
                            > 1.50 & < 2.00                         .250%
                                     -
                            > 1.00 & < 1.50                         .200%
                                     -
                            < 1.0                                   .150%
                            -


              (iii) for the period commencing with the Refinancing Date and
              concluding on the Expiration Date and in the event that Borrower
              fails to complete a public equity offering for which the Net
              Offering Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty Million
              Dollars ($60,000,000)




                                       5
<PAGE>   14



       Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio       Commitment Fee
       -----------------------------------------       --------------

                      > 3.00 & < 3.25                        .375%
                               -
                      > 2.50 & < 3.00                        .350%
                               -
                      > 2.00 & < 2.50                        .300%
                               -
                      > 1.50 & < 2.00                        .250%
                               -
                      > 1.00 & < 1.50                        .200%
                               -
                      < 1.0                                  .150%
                    


       and (c) payable in arrears by Borrower to NCB-Agent for the account of
       the Banks on April 1, 1997 and quarter-annually thereafter on the first
       day of each quarter and at the end of the Revolving Commitments.

       2B.05 EXTENSION OF REVOLVING COMMITMENT -- In the event that Borrower
       completes a public equity offering for which the Net Offering Proceeds
       are equal to or greater than Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000),
       Borrower may request extensions of the Revolving Commitments as
       follows: whenever Borrower furnishes its audited financial statements
       to Banks pursuant to clause (b) of subsection 3A.0l, commencing with
       the year ending December 31, 1997, Borrower may request that the
       Revolving Commitments be extended one year following the Expiration
       Date then in effect. Each such request shall be executed and delivered
       to each Bank in triplicate and shall be in the form of EXHIBIT D with
       all blanks appropriately filled. Banks agree to give consideration to
       each such request; but in no event shall any Bank be committed to
       extend its Revolving Commitment, nor shall any Bank's Revolving
       Commitment be so extended, unless and until every Bank has executed and
       delivered the form of assent in EXHIBIT D.

       2B.06 MANDATORY REDUCTIONS -- The Revolving Commitments shall reduce
       automatically on an annual basis, commencing on January 31, 1998, and
       continuing on each January 31 thereafter through January 31, 2002, in
       an annual amount equal to twenty percent (20%) of the difference
       between (a) the Post-Refinancing Amount LESS (b) One Hundred Eighty
       Million Dollars ($180,000,000). No such reductions shall be required if
       the Net Offering Proceeds are at least Sixty Million Dollars
       ($60,000,000). Subsection 2D.08 and section 6C shall apply to any
       prepayments of Revolving Loans made by Borrower in connection with such
       mandatory reductions.

2C. REVOLVING LOANS -- Each Bank (for itself only and not for the others) agrees
that, so long as its Revolving Commitment remains in effect, it will, subject to
the conditions of this Agreement, grant Borrower such Revolving Loans as
Borrower may from time to time request.

       2C.01 REVOLVING NOTE -- Each Bank's Revolving Loans shall be evidenced
       at all times by, (i) prior to the Refinancing Date, a Revolving Note
       executed and delivered by Borrower, payable to the order of that Bank
       in a principal amount equal to one-half of the dollar amount of that
       Bank's maximum Revolving Commitment (as set forth in the table in
       subsection 2B.01) (the "Initial Revolving Note") and being in the form
       and substance of EXHIBIT C with the blanks appropriately filled, and
       (ii) on and after the Refinancing Date, a Revolving Note executed and
       delivered by Borrower, payable to the


                                       6
<PAGE>   15



order of that Bank in a principal amount equal to the dollar amount of that
Bank's maximum Revolving Commitment as in effect as of the Refinancing (taking
into account the Refinancing) (the "Refinancing Revolving Note") and being in
the form and substance of EXHIBIT C with the blanks appropriately filled.

       (a) Whenever Borrower shall obtain a Revolving Series, each Bank shall
       endorse an appropriate entry on the Revolving Note or make an
       appropriate entry in a loan account in that Bank's books and records,
       or both. Each entry shall be prima facie evidence of the data entered;
       but such entries shall not be a condition to Borrower's obligation to
       pay.

       (b) No holder of any Revolving Note shall transfer a Revolving Note or
       seek a judgment or file a proof of claim based on a Revolving Note,
       without in each case first endorsing the Revolving Note to reflect the
       true amount owing thereon.

2C.02 CREDIT REQUESTS -- Whenever Borrower desires to obtain a Revolving Series,
Borrower shall give NCB-Agent an appropriate notice (a "Credit Request") which
shall be irrevocable and shall be in the form of EXHIBIT E (or in other form and
detail reasonably satisfactory to NCB-Agent) with the blanks appropriately
filled. NCB-Agent shall give each Bank immediate notice of each Credit Request.
Borrower may make its request by telephone PROVIDED it promptly confirms the
request by a written request as aforesaid, Borrower hereby agreeing to assume
the risk of a misunderstanding in the case of any telephone request. Except in
the case of Revolving Series obtained at the execution and delivery of this
Agreement the Credit Request is to be given not later than 12:00 noon of the
Banking Day on which the loan proceeds are to be disbursed EXCEPT in the case of
any Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans in which latter case the Credit
Request shall be given not later than 12:00 noon of the third (3rd) Banking Day
prior to the day the proceeds are to be disbursed.

2C.03 CONDITION: NO DEFAULT -- Borrower shall not be entitled to obtain any
Revolving Series if

       (a) any Default Under This Agreement shall then exist or would
       thereupon begin to exist or

       (b) any representation or warranty made in subsections 4B.01 through
       4B.08 (both inclusive) or 4B.10 through 4B.21 (both inclusive) shall
       have ceased to be true and complete in any material respect except for
       such changes if any as shall have been fully disclosed in the
       applicable Credit Request and as may be waived by the Required Banks in
       the reasonable exercise of their discretion, or

       (c) there shall have occurred any material adverse change in Borrowers
       financial condition, properties or business since the date of
       Borrower's Most Recent 4A.04 Financial Statements.



                                       7
<PAGE>   16


Each Credit Request, both when made and when honored, shall of itself constitute
a continuing representation and warranty by Borrower to NCB-Agent for the
benefit of the Banks that Borrower is entitled to obtain a Revolving Series.

2C.04 INTEREST: PR LOANS -- The principal of and overdue interest on any
Revolving Series comprised of PR Loans shall bear interest payable in arrears on
the first (1st) day of each month, commencing March 1, 1997, and at Maturity
and computed (in accordance with subsection 8.10)

       (a) prior to Maturity, at a fluctuating rate equal to the Prime Rate
       from time to time in effect, and

       (b) after Maturity (whether occurring by lapse of time or by
       acceleration), at a fluctuating rate equal to the Prime Rate from time
       to time in effect plus three percent (3%) per annum,

with each change in the Prime Rate automatically and immediately changing the
rate thereafter applicable to any Revolving Series comprised of PR Loans;
PROVIDED, that in no event shall the rate applicable to any Revolving Series of
comprised of PR Loans at any time after the Maturity thereof be less than the
rate applicable thereto immediately after Maturity regardless of future
reductions in the Prime Rate.

2C.05 INTEREST: LIBOR LOANS -- The principal of and overdue interest on each
Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall bear interest computed (in
accordance with subsection 8.10) and payable as follows:

       (a) Prior to Maturity, each Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans
       shall bear interest at a rate equal to the LIBOR Pre-Margin Rate in
       effect at the start of the applicable LIBOR Contract Period selected by
       Borrower in the applicable Credit Request PLUS the applicable "Margin".
       The applicable "Margin" shall be dependent on the Companies'
       consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio as of the end of
       any given fiscal quarter and shall be determined as follows:

              (i) for the period commencing with the date of the execution of
              this Agreement and concluding on the day immediately preceding
              the Refinancing Date

       Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio               Margin
       -----------------------------------------               ------

                   > 3.00 & < 3.25                               1.25% 
                           -
                   > 2.50 & < 3.00                               1.00% 
                           -
                   > 2.00 & < 2.50                               0.75% 
                           -
                   > 1.50 & < 2.00                               0.60% 
                           -
                   > 1.00 & < 1.50                               0.50%
                           -
                   < 1.0                                         0.35%
                   -




                                       8
<PAGE>   17



                (ii) for the period commencing with the Refinancing Date and
                concluding on the Expiration Date and in the event that Borrower
                completes a public equity offering for which the Net Offering
                Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty Million Dollars
                ($60,000,000)

        Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio               Margin
        -----------------------------------------               ------

                      > 2.00 & <2.50                            0.75%
                               -
                      > 1.50 & <2.00                            0.60%
                               -
                      > 1.00 & < 1.50                           0.50%
                               -
                      < 1.0                                     0.35%
                      -


                (iii) for the period commencing with the Refinancing Date and 
                concluding on the Expiration Date and in the event that 
                Borrower fails to complete a public equity offering for which 
                the Net Offering Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty 
                Million Dollars ($60,000,000)

        Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio               Margin
        -----------------------------------------               ------

                      > 3.00 & < 3.25                           1.50%
                               -
                      > 2.50 & < 3.00                           1.25%
                               -
                      > 2.00 & < 2.50                           1.00%
                               -
                      > 1.50 & < 2.00                           0.75%
                               -  
                      > 1.00 & < 1.50                           0.625%
                               -
                      < 1.0                                     0.50%
                      -

        The interest rate applicable to a Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR
        Loans prior to Maturity shall initially be equal to the LIBOR Pre-Margin
        Rate plus one percent (1.00%); provided that the applicable Margin shall
        be adjusted quarterly upon the Banks' receipt of (i) the financial
        statements contemplated in subsections 3A.01(a) and 3A.01(b) below and
        (ii) a corresponding certificate complying with subsection 3A.01(c),
        based on the Companies' consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA
        Ratio as of the end of the respective fiscal quarter and effective at
        the beginning of the first fiscal quarter subsequent to such receipt.

        (b) After Maturity (whether occurring by lapse of time or by
        acceleration) each Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall bear
        interest computed and payable in the same manner as in the case of any
        Revolving Series comprised of PR Loans (after Maturity).

        (c) Interest on each Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall be
        payable in arrears on the last day of the LIBOR Contract Period
        applicable thereto and at Maturity and, in the case of any Contract
        Period having a longer term than three (3) months, shall also be payable
        every three (3) months after the first (1st) day of the LIBOR Contract
        Period.


2D.     GENERAL LOAN PROVISIONS.

                                       9
<PAGE>   18


2D.01 CONDITION: PURPOSE -- Borrower shall not use the proceeds of any Subject
Loan in any manner that would violate or be inconsistent with Regulation U or X
of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; nor will it use any
such proceeds for the purpose of financing the acquisition of any corporation or
other business entity (other than the acquisition of all of the outstanding
capital stock of Target from Seller (the "Acquisition") if the acquisition is
publicly opposed by the latter's management or if Bank deems that its
participation in the financing would involve it in a conflict of interest.

2D.02 LOAN MIX -- The Subject Loans at any one time outstanding may consist of
PR Loans or LIBOR Loans or any combination thereof as Borrower may from time to
time duly elect; provided, that any given Series of Term Loans or Revolving
Loans, as the case may be, shall at all times consist only of PR Loans or only
of LIBOR Loans and, in the case of LIBOR Loans, shall have identical LIBOR
Contract Periods. In no event may Borrower have more than two (2) Term Series
comprised of LIBOR Loans outstanding at any time.

2D.03 AMOUNTS -- Each Revolving Series or Term Series, as the case may be, shall
be divided Ratably among the Banks and shall be in such aggregate principal
amount as Borrower may request subject, however, to the following:

       (a) The aggregate principal amount,

              in the case of any Revolving Series or Term Series, as the case
              may be, comprised of PR Loans, such PR Loans shall be One
              Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) or any multiple thereof, and

              in the case of any Revolving Series or Term Series, as the case
              may be, comprised of LIBOR Loans, such LIBOR Loans shall be One
              Million Dollars ($1,000,000) or any greater amount that is a
              multiple of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000),

       (b) In no event shall the unpaid principal amount of the Revolving
       Loans owing to any Bank at any time exceed the difference of (i) the
       amount of that Bank's Revolving Commitment as then in effect less (ii)
       that Bank's Ratable share of the aggregate undrawn balance of the
       Subject LCs then outstanding.

2D.04 LIBOR CONTRACT PERIODS -- Each Revolving Series or Term Series, as the
case may be, comprised of LIBOR Loans shall have applicable thereto a LIB OR
Contract Period to be duly elected by Borrower in the Credit Request or
Conversion/Continuation Request therefor. Each LIBOR Contract Period shall begin
on the date of borrowing of each such Series and shall end on such date as
Borrower may select subject, however, to the following:

       (a) The LIBOR Contract Period for each Revolving Series or Term Series.
       as the case may be, comprised of LIBOR Loans shall end, (i) in the case
       of such a


                                       10
<PAGE>   19

       Revolving Series, one (I) two (2) three (3) or six (6) months after the 
       date of borrowing, and (ii) in the case of such a Term Series, one (1) 
       month after the date of borrowing or conversion/continuation, as the 
       case may be; PROVIDED, that

              (1) if any such LIBOR Contract Period otherwise would end on a
              day that is not a Banking Day, it shall end instead on the next
              following Banking Day unless that day falls in another calendar
              month in which latter case the LIBOR Contract Period shall end
              instead on the last Banking Day of the next preceding calendar
              month,

              (2) if any such LIBOR Contract Period commences on a day which
              is the last day of the calendar month, it shall end on the last
              day of the next following calendar month, subject to subsection
              2D.04(a)(1), and

              (3) if the LIBOR Contract Period commences on a day for which
              there is no numerical equivalent in the calendar month in which
              the LIBOR Contract Period is to end, it shall end on the last
              Banking Day of that calendar month.

       (b) Borrower shall never elect a LIBOR Contract Period for a Revolving
       Series the term of which extends beyond the Expiration Date. In
       addition, Borrower shall never elect a LIBOR Contract Period for a
       Revolving Series the term of which extends beyond any January 31,
       commencing with January 31, 1998, unless, after giving effect to such
       selection, the aggregate outstanding principal balance of all Revolving
       Series comprised of PR Loans, together with the aggregate outstanding
       principal balance of all Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans
       which have LIBOR Contract Periods ending on or prior to such January
       31, shall be at least equal to that portion of the aggregate principal
       amount of such Revolving Series due and payable on and prior to such
       January 31.

       (c) Borrower shall never elect a LIBOR Contract Period for a Term
       Series the term of which extends beyond June 30, 1997.

2D.05 MATURITIES -- The stated Maturity of any Revolving Series comprised of PR
Loans shall be (subject to any mandatory reductions of the Revolving Commitments
pursuant to subsection 2B.06) the Expiration Date. The stated Maturity of any
Term Series comprised of PR Loans shall be the Refinancing Date. The stated
Maturity of each Term Series or Revolving Series, as the case may be, comprised
of LIBOR Loans shall be the last day of the LIBOR Contract Period applicable
thereto. In no event, however, shall (a) the stated Maturity of any Revolving
Loan be later than the Expiration Date, and (b) the stated Maturity of any Term
Loan be later than June 30, 1997.






                                       11
<PAGE>   20

2D.06 ROLLOVER OR REFINANCING OF REVOLVING LOANS -- Upon delivery of a timely
Credit Request in accordance with subsection 2C.02 and subject to any other
conditions or limitations of this Agreement, Borrower may refinance all or any
part of any Revolving Series with another Revolving Series of the same or a
different Type. Any Revolving Series or part thereof so refinanced shall be
deemed to be repaid or prepaid, as applicable, with the proceeds of a new
Revolving Series. If

        (a) prior to the Expiration Date any Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR
        Loans shall not be paid in full at the stated Maturity thereof, and

        (b) Borrower shall have failed to duly give NCB-Agent a timely Credit
        Request in respect thereof,

Borrower shall be deemed to have duly given NCB-Agent a timely Credit Request to
obtain (and at that Maturity the Banks shall make) a Revolving Series comprised
of PR Loans in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate unpaid
principal of the Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans then due the proceeds
of which Revolving Series comprised of PR Loans shall be applied to the payment
in full of the Revolving Series comprised of LIBOR Loans then due; PROVIDED that
no such Revolving Series comprised of PR Loans shall of itself constitute a
waiver of any then-existing Default Under This Agreement.

2D.07 CONTINUATION/CONVERSION OF TERM LOANS -- Borrower shall have the right to
convert or continue any Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans or PR Loans, as the
case may be, upon notice and request delivered by Borrower to NCB-Agent not
later than 12:00 noon (a) on the Banking Day that Borrower desires to convert
any Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans to a Term Series comprised of PR Loans,
(b) three (3) Banking Days prior to the Banking Day on which Borrower desires to
convert any portion of a Term Series comprised of PR Loans to a Term Series
comprised of LIBOR Loans for a given LIBOR Contract Period, and (c) three (3)
Banking Days prior to the Banking Day on which Borrower desires to continue any
Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans as another Term Series comprised of LIBOR
Loans; PROVIDED, that each such conversion or continuation shall be subject to
the following:

        (i) if less than all the outstanding principal amount of a Term Series
        comprised of PR Loans or LIBOR Loans, as the case may be, is converted
        or continued, the aggregate principal amount of such Term Series being
        converted or continued shall be: (A) in the case of a Term Series
        comprised of LIBOR Loans, not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000)
        or a multiple thereof, or (B) in the case of a Term Series comprised of
        PR Loans, One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000),

        (ii) each such conversion or continuation shall be effected as if the
        Banks were applying the proceeds of the Loans resulting from such
        conversion or continuation to that portion of the Term Loans being
        converted or continued, as the case may be, and the accrued interest on
        such portion of the Term Loans being converted 

                                       12
<PAGE>   21


        or continued shall be paid to NCB-Agent by Borrower at the time of such
        conversion or continuation,

        (iii) no LIBOR Loans shall be converted or continued at any time unless
        Borrower shall promptly pay any amounts due to the Banks pursuant to
        subsection 2D.08 or section 6C,

        (iv) Loans that cannot be converted into or continued as LIBOR Loans by
        reason of clauses (iii) or (v) of this subsection 2D.07 shall be
        automatically converted at the end of the LIBOR Contract Period in
        effect for such Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans into a Term Series
        comprised of PR Loans, and

        (v) no LIBOR Contract Period can be selected in connection with any
        conversion or continuation with respect to any Term Series comprised of
        LIBOR Loans which ends after June 30, 1997.

Each such request for a conversion or continuation (a "Conversion/Continuation
Request") shall be irrevocable and shall be in the form of EXHIBIT F (or in
other form and detail reasonably satisfactory to NCB-Agent) with the blanks
appropriately filled. NCB-Agent shall give each Bank immediate notice of each
Conversion/Continuation Request. Borrower may make its request by telephone
PROVIDED it promptly confirms the request by a written request as aforesaid,
Borrower hereby agreeing to assume the risk of a misunderstanding in the case of
any telephone request.

2D.08 PREPAYMENTS -- Borrower may from time to time prepay the principal of any
Series comprised of PR Loans or LIBOR Loans, as the case may be, in whole or in
part, subject to the following:

        (a) Borrower shall give NCB-Agent an appropriate notice not later than
        12:00 noon on the Banking Day next preceding any such prepayment, which
        notice, if not originally given in writing, shall be promptly confirmed
        in writing. NCB-Agent shall promptly report the notice to each Bank.

        (b) Each prepayment of a Series comprised of PR Loans shall aggregate
        the principal amount of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000) or any
        multiple thereof or an amount equal to the then aggregate principal
        outstanding and shall be allocated thereto Ratably. Each prepayment of a
        Series comprised of LIBOR Loans shall aggregate One Million Dollars
        ($1,000,000) or any greater amount that is a multiple of One Hundred
        Thousand Dollars ($100,000) or an amount equal to the aggregate unpaid
        principal balance of that Series comprised of LIBOR Loans and shall be
        applied Ratably thereto.

        (c) Each prepayment of a Series comprised of PR Loans may be made
        without penalty or premium. Any prepayment of a Series comprised of
        LIBOR Loans (regardless of the reason for the prepayment) shall be
        subject to the payment of


                                       13
<PAGE>   22



        any indemnity required by section 6C; provided, however, Borrower shall
        not be required to repay any Series of Term Loans comprised of LIBOR
        Loans which constitute all or a portion of the Refinanced Amount.

        (d) Prior to the Expiration Date no prepayment shall of itself reduce
        any Revolving Commitment.

        (e) Concurrently with each prepayment, Borrower shall prepay the
        interest accrued on the prepaid principal.

        (f) Prior to the Refinancing Date Borrower shall not prepay any portion
        of the Term Loans unless the then aggregate outstanding principal amount
        of the Revolving Loans does not exceed One Hundred Million Dollars
        ($100,000,000).

2D.09 DISBURSEMENT -- Each Bank may disburse the proceeds of each Subject Loan
made by it from any office selected by that Bank and in each case shall disburse
the same in immediately available funds to Borrower's general checking account
with NCB in the absence of written instructions from Borrower to the contrary,
which funds shall be so disbursed on the Banking Day specified in the Credit
Request for a Revolving Loan and on the date of this Agreement for a Term Loan;
PROVIDED, that this subsection shall not apply to Revolving Loans made pursuant
to subsection 2B.05.

2D.10 LIBOR LOANS: UNAVAILABILITY -- If at any time

        (a) NCB-Agent shall determine that dollar deposits of the relevant
        amount for the relevant LIBOR Contract Period are not available in the
        London interbank market (in the case of LIBOR rates) for the purpose of
        funding the LIBOR rates in question, or

        (b) NCB-Agent shall reasonably determine that circumstances affecting
        that market make it impracticable for NCB-Agent to ascertain LIBOR
        rates, or

        (c) any Bank shall give NCB-Agent written notice that the costs of that
        Bank in funding of any Subject Loans at a LIBOR rate are equal to or
        greater than the interest payable by Borrower in respect thereof,

then and in each such case NCB-Agent shall, by written notice to Borrower and to
all the Banks, suspend Borrower's right thereafter to obtain rates of the kind
in question, which suspension shall remain in effect until such time, if any, as
NCB-Agent may give written notice to Borrower that the condition giving rise to
the suspension no longer prevails, which notice NCB-Agent agrees to provide
within thirty (30) days of the end of the condition giving rise to the
suspension. 

                                       14
<PAGE>   23


        2D.11 LIBOR LOANS: ILLEGALITY -- If any Bank shall give NCB-Agent 
        written notice that it is or any governmental authority has asserted 
        that it is unlawful for that Bank to fund make or maintain the LIBOR 
        rates in question,

                (a) NCB-Agent shall give Borrower and each of the other Banks 
                prompt written notice thereof, and

                (b) Borrower shall promptly pay in full the principal of and 
                interest on the LIBOR Loan in question and make the 
                reimbursement, if any, required by section 6C.

2E. LETTERS OF CREDIT -- NCB-Agent and the Banks agree that so long as all of
the Revolving Commitments remain in effect NCB-Agent will, in NCB's name but
only as agent for the Banks, issue such standby letters of credit (each, a
"Subject LC") for Borrower's account as Borrower may from time to time request
subject, however, to the conditions of this Agreement.

        2E.01 RATABLE PARTICIPATION -- Each issuance of a Subject LC shall, of
        itself, confer upon each Bank the benefits and liabilities of a
        participation constituting an undivided interest in the Subject LC to
        the extent of that Bank's Ratable share. Promptly after the issuance
        of each Subject LC, NCB-Agent shall notify each Bank of such issuance.
        Upon the request of any Bank, NCB-Agent shall notify each Bank of such
        issuance. Upon the request of any Bank, NCB-Agent shall deliver a copy
        of each Subject LC issued hereunder to such requesting Bank.

        2E.02 MAXIMUM -- in addition to the conditions set forth in subsection
        2C.03 hereof, NCB-Agent shall not issue any Subject LC if, after
        giving effect thereto,

                (a) the aggregate undrawn balance of all then outstanding
                Subject LCs would exceed Ten Million Dollars ($10,000,000) or

                (b) the aggregate undrawn balance of all Subject LCs and any
                unreimbursed drawings in respect thereof (to the extent that a
                Revolving Series comprises of PR Loans have not been advanced
                by Banks in respect thereof) plus any Subject LCs to be issued
                pursuant to any unfilled Credit Request under subsection 2C.02
                plus the aggregate amount of Revolving Loans outstanding or to
                be obtained pursuant to any unfilled Credit Requests would at
                any time exceed the aggregate of the Revolving Commitments as
                then in effect.

        2E.03 TERM -- No Subject LC shall permit any draft to be drawn
        thereunder on a date (the "last draw date") that is later than the
        third (3rd) Banking Day next preceding the Expiration Date in effect
        at the date of issuance of such Subject LC.

        2E.04 FORM AND SUBSTANCE -- Each Subject LC shall have terms,
        conditions and other provisions that are satisfactory to NCB, shall
        expire not more than one year after Borrower's application therefor,
        shall be a commercial letter of credit used for any valid


                                      15
<PAGE>   24

        business purpose in Borrower's business, shall be denominated in
        United States dollars and shall be in NCB's standard form or in other
        form satisfactory to NCB.

        2E.05 CREDIT REQUESTS AND REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENTS -- Borrower shall 
        execute and deliver to NCB-Agent in respect of each Subject LC in 
        addition to the Credit Request referred to in subsection 2C.02, two 
        counterparts each of an appropriate application and reimbursement 
        agreement being in such form and substance as NCB-Agent may require. 
        Each Credit Request with respect to a Subject LC shall be delivered not
        later than 12:00 noon of the third (3rd) Banking Day prior to the day 
        it is to be issued. To the extent the terms or provisions of any 
        Reimbursement Agreement are inconsistent with those of this Agreement, 
        the terms and provisions of this Agreement shall govern.

        2E.06 COMMISSION -- Borrower agrees to pay NCB all of its standard fees
        and charges, at prevailing rates from time to time established by NCB's
        International Department, in regard to any Subject LC, including but not
        limited to an issuance fee, an annual maintenance fee, an amendment fee
        and a negotiation fee. In addition, Borrower shall pay NCB-Agent, for 
        the Ratable benefit of the Banks, a non-refundable commission (billed 
        quarterly in advance) equal to the then applicable Margin under 
        subsection 2C.05 multiplied by the face amount of each Subject LC. NCB 
        shall be entitled to keep each of the aforesaid standard fees, if any, 
        payable by Borrower in respect of the Subject LC as well as keeping its
        Ratable share of the commissions.

        2E.07 PAYMENT OF DRAFTS -- Whenever a draft drawn under an Subject LC is
        presented to NCB for payment, NCB shall give prompt notice thereof to 
        Borrower and the Banks. In each such case the Banks shall, on the date 
        the draft is to be paid, grant Borrower a Revolving Series comprised 
        of PR Loans to fully fund the payment of the draft. Each such Revolving
        Series comprised 6f PR Loans shall be made

                (a) in accordance with the other provisions of section 2E 
                (except that the PR Loans shall be made on NCB's demand even 
                if the Revolving Commitments may no longer be in effect and 
                even if any one or more Defaults Under This Agreement may then 
                exist or thereupon occur), and

                (b) in such aggregate principal amount as will fully reimburse
                NCB for its payment of the draft.

        The proceeds shall be disbursed directly to NCB to reimburse NCB as 
        aforesaid.

        2E.08 CHANGE OF LAW -- If any change in any law or regulation or in the
        interpretation thereof shall impose, modify, or deem applicable any 
        reserve, special deposit, or similar requirement which would impose on 
        NCB-Agent or any bank any additional cost relating to the issuance or 
        maintenance of letters of credit generally or to the issuance or 
        maintenance of any specific Subject LC, than NCB-Agent or any Bank may 
        give to Borrower notice of the amount thereof and a certificate setting
        forth a 

                                      16
<PAGE>   25


        computation and explanation thereto and Borrower shall immediately
        after receipt thereof pay the amount thereon to NCB-Agent of the Bank,
        as the case may be.

        2E.09 UNCONDITIONAL OBLIGATIONS -- The obligation of the Banks to
        make, and of Borrower to pay, each series of PR Loans made pursuant to
        subsection 2E.07 shall be absolute and unconditional and shall be
        performed under all circumstances, including, without limitation:

                (a) any lack of validity or enforceability of any Subject LC,

                (b) the existence of any claim, offset, defense,or other right
                that Borrower may have against the beneficiary of any Subject
                LC or anyone else,

                (c) the existence of any fraud or misrepresentation in the
                presentment of any draft drawn and paid under any Subject LC,
                or

                (d) any payment of any such draft by NCB which does not
                strictly comply with the terms of any Subject LC provided such
                payment shall not have constituted gross negligence or willful
                misconduct.

        2E.10 BORROWER'S INDEMNITY -- Borrower agrees to defend and indemnify
        NCB against, and to hold NCB harmless from, any loss, liability,
        damage, claim, cost, or expense relating to NCB's issuance or
        maintenance of any Subject LC or to NCB's payment of any draft drawn
        thereunder, excluding any such loss, liability, damage, claim, cost,
        or expense resulting from NCB's gross negligence or willful
        misconduct.

3A.  INFORMATION -- Borrower agrees that so long as the Revolving Commitments 
remain in effect and thereafter until the Subject Indebtedness shall have been 
paid in full, Borrower will perform and observe each of the following:

        3A.01 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Borrower will furnish to each Bank

                (a) within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the
                first three quarter- annual periods of each of Borrower's
                fiscal years, balance sheets of the Companies as at the end of
                the period and their statements of cash flow, income and
                surplus, shareholder equity for the current fiscal year to the
                end of that period, all prepared (but unaudited) on a
                consolidated basis, on a comparative basis with the prior
                year, in accordance with GAAP (EXCEPT as disclosed therein)
                and in form and detail satisfactory to the Required Banks

                (b) as soon as available (and in any event within ninety (90)
                days after the end of each of Borrower's fiscal years), a
                complete copy of an annual audit report (including, without
                limitation, all financial statements of the Companies therein
                and notes thereto) of the Companies for that year which shall
                be



                                      17
<PAGE>   26


                (1) prepared on a consolidated and consolidating basis, on a
                comparative basis with the prior year with respect to the
                consolidated (but not consolidating) statements, in accordance
                with GAAP (EXCEPT as disclosed therein) and in form and detail
                satisfactory to the Required Banks

                (2) certified (without qualification as to GAAP) by
                independent public accountants selected by Borrower and
                satisfactory to the Required Banks. and

                (3) accompanied by a copy of any management report, letter or
                similar writing furnished to Borrower by the accountants in
                respect of Borrower's systems, operations, financial condition
                or properties,

        (c) concurrently with the delivery of any financial statement to Banks
        pursuant to clause (a) or (b), a certificate by Borrower's chief
        financial officer

                (1) certifying that to the best of the officer's knowledge and
                belief, (A) those financial statements fairly present in all
                material respects the financial condition and the results of
                operations of the Companies in accordance with GAAP subject,
                in the case of interim financial statements, to routine
                year-end audit adjustments and (B) no Default Under This
                Agreement then exists or if any does, a brief description of
                the default and Borrowers intentions in respect thereof, and

                (2) setting forth calculations indicating whether or not the
                Companies are in compliance with the general financial
                standards of section 3B as well as the calculation of the
                Companies consolidated Adjusted Funded Indebtedness/EBITDA
                Ratio,

        (d) promptly when filed (in final form) or sent, a copy of

                (1) each registration statement, Form 10-K annual report, Form
                10-Q quarterly report, Form 8-K current report or similar
                document filed by Borrower with the Securities and Exchange
                Commission (or any similar federal agency having regulatory
                jurisdiction over Borrower securities).

                (2) each proxy statement, annual report, certificate, notice
                or other document sent by Borrower to the holders of any of
                its securities in their capacities as shareholders (or any
                trustee under any indenture which secure, any of its
                securities or pursuant to which such securities are issued),
                and

        (e) as soon as available (and, in any event, no later than sixty (60)
        days after the end of each calendar year), forecasts prepared by
        management of Borrower, in form and substance satisfactory to the
        Required Banks, of consolidated and consolidating balance sheets,
        consolidated and consolidating income statements and


                                      18
<PAGE>   27



        consolidated and consolidating cash flow statements for the Companies
        on a quarterly basis for the next succeeding fiscal year.

        (f) not less than ten (10) days nor more than forty-five (45) days
        prior to (1) an acquisition by Borrower of substantially all the
        assets or equity interests of another corporation or business
        enterprise, (2) a merger or consolidation by any Company with any
        other Person (other than a merger or consolidation referred to in
        clause (i) of subsection 3D.01), (3) a joint venture with another
        corporation or business enterprise, or (4) an investment in or advance
        or loan to any person or entity made after the date of this Agreement
        pursuant to subsection 3D.02(iii) or (iv) below, oral notification to
        each Bank regarding such event of the type referred to in clauses (1)
        through (4) above and, if any Bank shall request in respect thereto,
        twelve (12) month financial projections (the "Projections"), including
        a projected balance sheet and cash flow and income statements,
        prepared by Borrower's chief financial officer, controller or another
        officer reasonably satisfactory to the Required Banks. Notwithstanding
        the foregoing, Banks agree that they shall not request Projections in
        the event the aggregate dollar amount of such events for a given
        fiscal year do not exceed ten percent (10%) of the consolidated
        Stockholders Equity of the Companies as of the end of the prior fiscal
        year. The Projections shall be prepared on the basis of the historical
        operations of the Companies (and any entity to be acquired or merged
        or consolidated with) after giving effect to the event in question and
        all reasonable related assumptions. The officer preparing such
        Projections shall certify to Banks and NCB-Agent that to the best of
        his knowledge and belief such financial information is not misleading
        and is accurate in all material respects. Borrower shall promptly
        notify Banks of any change in the assumptions upon which the
        Projections are based between the date of preparation and the date of
        the event in question,

        (g) forthwith upon Bank's written request, such other information in
        writing about the financial condition, properties and operations of
        the Companies and about their Pension Plans, if any, as the Required
        Banks may from time to time reasonably request.

3A.02 NOTICE -- Borrower will cause its chief financial officer, or in his
absence another officer designated by Borrower, to give each Bank prompt
written notice whenever any officer of any Company

        (a) reasonably believes (or receives notice from any governmental
        agency alleging) that any Reportable Event has occurred in respect of
        any Pension Plan or that a Company has become in material
        non-compliance with any law or governmental order referred to in
        subsection 3C.06 if non-compliance therewith would materially and
        adversely affect the financial condition or operations of the
        Companies taken as a whole,



                                      19
<PAGE>   28

        (b) receives from the Internal Revenue Service or any other federal,
        state, local, domestic or foreign taxing authority any allegation of
        any default by a Company in the payment of any tax that is material in
        amount to the Companies taken as a whole or notice of any assessment
        in respect thereof,

        (c) learns there has been brought against a Company before any court,
        administrative agency or arbitrator any litigation or proceeding
        which, if successful, might have a material adverse effect on the
        Companies taken as a whole,

        (d) reasonably believes that any representation or warranty made in
        subsections 4B.01 through 4B.08 (both inclusive) or 4B.10 through
        4B.21 (both inclusive) shall have ceased in any material respect to be
        true and complete or that any Default Under This Agreement shall have
        occurred or

        (e) reasonably believes that there has occurred or begun to exist any
        other event, condition or thing that likely may have a material
        adverse effect on the financial condition operations or properties of
        the Companies taken as a whole,

        (f) reasonably believes (or receives any notice from any third party)
        that a Company has defaulted or otherwise breached any Material
        Contract to which such Company is a party.

3B. GENERAL FINANCIAL STANDARDS -- Borrower agrees that so long as the
Revolving Commitments remain in effect and thereafter until the Subject
Indebtedness shall have been paid in full, Borrower will perform and observe
each of the following:

        3B.01 FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/CAPITAL -- Borrower will not suffer or
        permit, as at the end of any fiscal quarter, the ratio of (a) the sum
        of (i) the consolidated amount of Funded Indebtedness of the Companies
        PLUS (ii) the consolidated amount of all other indebtedness for
        borrowed money of the Companies to (b) the sum of (i) the consolidated
        amount of Funded Indebtedness of the Companies PLUS (ii) the
        consolidated amount of all other indebtedness for borrowed money of
        the Companies PLUS (iii) consolidated Stockholders' Equity of the
        Companies to be greater than (A) for the period commencing on the date
        of the execution of this Agreement and concluding on the day
        immediately preceding the Refinancing Date, .60 to 1.0., (B) in the
        event that Borrower completes a public equity offering for which the
        Net Offering Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty Million
        Dollars ($60,000,000) and for the period commencing on the Refinancing
        Date and thereafter, .45 to 1.0, and (C) in the event that Borrower
        fails to complete a public equity offering for which the Net Offering
        Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty Million Dollars
        ($60,000,000) and (1) for the period commencing on the Refinancing
        Date and concluding on December 31, 1998, .60 to 1.0, and (2) for the
        period commencing on January 1, 1999 and continuing thereafter, .50 to
        1.0.




                                      20
<PAGE>   29



        3B.02 CURRENT RATIO -- Borrower will not suffer or permit, as at the
        end of any fiscal quarter, the consolidated Current Assets of the
        Companies to fall below an amount equal to one hundred fifty percent
        (150%) of their consolidated Current Liabilities.

        3B.03 FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/EBITDA -- Borrower will not suffer or
        permit, as at the end of any fiscal quarter, the consolidated Funded
        Indebtedness/EBITDA Ratio of the Companies to be greater than (A) for
        the period commencing on the date of the execution of this Agreement
        and concluding on the day immediately preceding the Refinancing Date,
        3.25 to 1.0., (B) in the event that Borrower completes a public equity
        offering for which the Net Offering Proceeds are equal to or greater
        than Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000) and for the period commencing
        on the Refinancing Date and thereafter, 2.5 to 1.0, and (C) in the
        event that Borrower fails to complete a public equity offering for
        which the Net Offering Proceeds are equal to or greater than Sixty
        Million Dollars ($60,000,000) and (1) for the period commencing on the
        Refinancing Date and concluding on December 31, 1997, 3.25 to 1.0, (2)
        for the period commencing on January 1, 1998 and concluding on
        December 31, 1998, 3.0 to 1.0, and (3) for the period commencing on
        January 1, 1999 and continuing thereafter, 2.5 to 1.0.

3C. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS -- Borrower agrees that so long as the Revolving
Commitments remain in effect and thereafter until the Subject Indebtedness
shall have been paid in full, the Companies will perform and observe each of
the following:

        3C.01 TAXES -- Each Company will pay in full

                (a) prior in each case to the date when penalties for the
                nonpayment thereof would attach, all taxes, assessments and
                governmental charges and levies for which it may be or become
                subject and

                (b) prior in each case to the date the claim would become
                delinquent for nonpayment, all other lawful claims (whatever
                their kind or nature) which, if unpaid, might have a material
                adverse effect upon the Companies on a consolidated basis;

        PROVIDED, that no item (other than wage or social security withholding
        tax obligations) need be paid so long as and to the extent that it is
        contested in good faith and by timely and appropriate proceedings
        which are effective to stay enforcement thereof and Borrower either
        posts a bond or otherwise establishes adequate reserves therefor.

        3C.02 FINANCIAL RECORDS -- Each Company will at all times keep true
        and complete financial records in accordance with GAAP and, without
        limiting the generality of the foregoing, make appropriate accruals to
        reserves for estimated and contingent losses and liabilities.

        3C.03 VISITATION -- Each Company will permit each Bank at all
        reasonable times upon reasonable advance notice except in the case of
        an emergency


                                      21
<PAGE>   30



                (a) to visit and inspect that Company's properties and examine
                its records at that Bank's expense and to make copies of and
                extracts from such records, and

                (b) to consult with that Company's directors, officers,
                employees, accountants, actuaries, trustees and plan
                administrators in respect of its financial condition,
                properties and operations and the financial condition of its
                Pension Plans, each of which parties is hereby authorized to
                make such information available to each Bank to the same
                extent that it would to that Company; provided, however, that
                so long as no Default Under This Agreement shall have occurred
                and be continuing, each of the Banks agrees to use its
                reasonable efforts to coordinate any such visits or
                consultations with the other Banks, to the extent reasonably
                practicable; provided, further, that all information obtained
                shall be subject to the provisions Section 8.20.

        3C.04 INSURANCE -- Each Company will

                (a) keep itself and all of its insurable properties insured
                (or self-insured in accordance with prudent insurance
                practice) at all times to such extent, with such deductibles,
                by such insurers and against such hazards and liabilities as
                is generally and prudently done by like businesses, and

                (b) forthwith upon any Bank's written request furnish to that
                Bank such information about Borrower's insurance as that Bank
                may from time to time reasonably request, which information
                shall be prepared in form and detail reasonably satisfactory
                to that Bank and certified by an officer of Borrower.

        3C.05 CORPORATE EXISTENCE -- Each Company will at all times maintain
        its corporate existence, rights and franchises, the failure to
        maintain any of which would have a material adverse effect on such
        Company; provided that this subsection shall not prevent any
        dissolution and liquidation of any Subsidiary or any merger or
        consolidation permitted by subsection 3D.0l.

        3C.06 COMPLIANCE WITH LAW -- Each Company will comply with all laws
        (whether federal, state or local and whether statutory, administrative
        or judicial or other) and with every lawful governmental order
        (whether administrative or judicial) and will, without limiting the
        generality of the foregoing,

                (a) use and operate all of its facilities and properties in
                material compliance with all Environmental Laws and handle all
                hazardous materials in material compliance therewith; keep in
                full effect each permit, approval, certification, license or
                other authorization required by any Environmental Law for the
                conduct of any material portion of its business; and comply in
                all other material respects with all Environmental Laws
                (including the undertaking of any cleanup, remedial or other
                action necessary in order to comply with any directive of a
                governmental authority or Environmental Law);


                                      22
<PAGE>   31

                (b) make a full and timely payment of premiums required by
                ERISA and perform and observe all such further and other
                requirements of ERISA such that no Default Under ERISA shall
                occur or begin to exist; and

                (c) comply with all material requirements of all occupational
                health and safety laws and federal and state securities laws;

        PROVIDED, that this subsection shall not apply to any of the foregoing

                (i) if and to the extent that the same shall be contested in
                good faith by timely and appropriate proceedings which are
                effective to stay enforcement thereof and against which a bond
                has been posted or appropriate reserves shall have been
                established or

                (ii) in any other case if non-compliance therewith would not
                materially and adversely affect the Companies' consolidated
                financial condition, properties or business.

        3C.07 PROPERTIES -- Each Company will maintain all fixed assets
        necessary to its continuing operations in good working order and
        condition, ordinary wear and tear excepted, refrain from wasting or
        destroying any such necessary fixed assets and refrain from being
        negligent in the care or use thereof.

        3C.08 QUALIFICATION TO DO BUSINESS -- Each Company shall remain
        qualified to do business in each jurisdiction in which such
        qualification is required by law and in which the consequences of a
        failure to qualify would have a materially adverse effect on the
        business or financial condition of the Companies on a consolidated
        basis.

        3C.09 APPLICATION OF NET OFFERING PROCEEDS -- Borrower shall apply,
        immediately upon its receipt thereof, the Net Offering Proceeds of up
        to Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000) to pay down the aggregate
        outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans. In the event that
        Borrower raises more than Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000) in Net
        Offering Proceeds, Borrower may apply, after the Refinancing Date, all
        or a portion of such proceeds in excess of Sixty Million Dollars
        ($60,000,000) to pay down the aggregate outstanding principal amount
        of the Revolving Loans.

3D. NEGATIVE COVENANTS -- Borrower agrees that so long as the Revolving
Commitments remain in effect and thereafter until the Subject Indebtedness
shall have been paid in full, the Companies will perform and observe each of
the following:

        3D.01 EQUITY AND ASSET TRANSACTIONS -- No Company will

                (a)  be a party to any merger or consolidation,




                                      23
<PAGE>   32

                (b)  create, acquire or hold any Subsidiary, or purchase or
                otherwise acquire all or substantially all of the assets and
                business of any corporation or other business enterprise, or
                be or become a party to any joint venture or partnership,

                (c)  make or keep any investment in any stocks or other equity
                securities of any kind, except that this clause (c) shall not
                apply to any existing (as of the date hereof) investments in
                stocks and other equity securities of Subsidiaries or any
                other investment fully disclosed in the Companies' December
                31, 1995 consolidated audited financial statements or in the
                Supplemental Schedule,

                (d)  lease as lessor, sell, sell-leaseback or otherwise
                transfer (whether in one transaction or a series of
                transactions) all or any substantial part of its fixed assets,
                including, without limitation, all or substantially all of the
                assets of a division, branch or other unit operation, EXCEPT
                chattels that shall have become obsolete or no longer useful
                in its present business, or

                (e)  sell or otherwise transfer or issue (in the case of a
                Subsidiary) any shares of stock (other than shares issued or
                transferred solely for the purpose of qualifying directors
                under any applicable law) or other equity securities of any
                Subsidiary to anyone other than Borrower;

        provided, that if no Default Under this Agreement shall then exist and
        if none would thereupon begin to exist, this subsection shall not
        apply to

                (i)  any merger or consolidation involving only Subsidiaries of
                the Borrower, or any merger involving only the Borrower and
                one or more of its Subsidiaries in which the Borrower is the
                surviving corporation, or

                (ii)  any acquisition by a Company of substantially all of the
                assets or equity interest of another corporation or business
                enterprise, any merger or consolidation by any Company with
                any other Person (other than a merger or consolidation
                referred to in clause (i) above), or any joint venture with
                another corporation or business enterprise; provided that (A)
                the target or resulting entity is in the same, substantially
                similar or a complementary line of business, and (B) Proforma
                Covenant Compliance pertains and, to the extent Projections
                are requested, the Required Banks do not reasonably object to
                the assumptions or other information upon which the relevant
                Projections were based (each of the Banks hereto, by their
                signatures hereof, do hereby consent to the assumptions upon
                which the Projections delivered in connection with the
                Acquisition were based), or

                (iii)  any sale, lease or transfer of assets by any Company
                (other than any sale or transfer of any of the capital stock
                by the Borrower of any of its Subsidiaries) otherwise
                prohibited by this Subsection 3D.01 so long as (A) such sale,
                lease or transfer is for not less than the fair market value
                of such assets, (B) the consideration received therefor is
                cash or cash equivalents and (C) the aggregate 


                                      24
<PAGE>   33


                of such proceeds of all such sales shall not exceed Five
                Million Dollars ($5,000,000) during the term of this
                Agreement.

        3D.02 CREDIT EXTENSIONS -- No Company will

                (a)  make or keep any investment in any notes, bonds or other
                obligations of any kind for the payment of money or make or
                have outstanding at any time any advance or loan to anyone or

                (b)  be or become a Guarantor of any kind;

        PROVIDED, that this subsection shall not apply to

                (i)  any existing or future advance, commission or relocation
                payment, or other loan or advance made to an employee or to a
                director or officer of the Company in the ordinary course of
                business and consistent with past practice,

                (ii)  any existing or future investment in any such notes,
                bonds or other obligations consisting of (A) Acceptable
                Marketable Securities or (B) in the case of Kokkola Chemicals
                Oy, the Borrower's wholly-owned Finnish subsidiary, (x) any
                money-market investment carrying the highest quality rating
                issued by Standard and Poors or any Scandinavian affiliate
                thereof and (y) certificates of deposit or commercial paper
                (with a remaining term of 360 days or less) issued by any bank
                having a combined capital and surplus aggregating at least
                Three Hundred Fifty Million Dollars ($350,000,000); PROVIDED,
                HOWEVER, that the aggregate amount of the investments in
                clause (A) and (B) hereof outstanding at any time shall not
                exceed Fifteen Million Dollars ($15,000,000),

                (iii)  any existing investment, advance, loan or Guaranty fully
                disclosed in the Companies' December 31, 1995 consolidated
                audited financial statements or in the Supplemental Schedule
                or any other investment, advance or loan provided that (A) the
                entity invested in or to which an advance or loan is made is
                in the same, substantially similar or a complementary line of
                business and (B) Proforma Covenant Compliance pertains and, to
                the extent Projections are requested, the Required Banks to
                not reasonably object to the assumptions or other information
                upon which the relevant Projections were based,

                (iv)  any intercompany loan or Guaranty by the Borrower (not
                otherwise permitted by clause (iii) above) to, and any
                Guaranty by the Borrower of any indebtedness of, any
                Subsidiary of the Borrower in which the Borrower owns one
                hundred percent (100%) of the outstanding common stock (except
                for shares owned by directors as required by law); PROVIDED,
                HOWEVER, that, at the time of and after giving effect to any
                such loan or Guaranty (A) no Default Under This Agreement
                shall have occurred and be continuing and (B) Proforma
                Covenant Compliance pertains and, to the extent Projections
                are requested, the Required


                                      25
<PAGE>   34

              Banks do not reasonably object to the assumptions or other
              information upon which the relevant Projections were based,

              (v)  any endorsement of a check or other medium of payment for
              deposit or collection, or any similar transaction in the normal
              course of business, or

              (vi)  trade accounts arising and outstanding in the ordinary
              course of business unless represented by a promissory note or
              other instrument.

        3D.03 BORROWINGS -- No Company will create, assume or have outstanding
        at any time any indebtedness for borrowed money or any Funded
        Indebtedness of any kind to the extent the same would cause a
        violation of the general financial standards contained in Section 3B
        or otherwise violate any other term or provision of this Agreement or
        any Related Writing and no indebtedness for borrowed money or Funded
        Indebtedness of any Company will have covenants or defaults materially
        more restrictive on the Companies than those set forth in this
        Agreement.

        3D.04 LIENS, LEASES -- No Company will

              (a)  lease any property as lessee or acquire or hold any property
              subject to any land contract, inventory consignment or other
              title retention contract,

              (b)  sell or otherwise transfer any receivables with recourse or

              (c)  suffer or permit any property now owned or hereafter
              acquired by it to be or become encumbered by any mortgage,
              security interest, lien or financing statement:

        PROVIDED, that this subsection shall not apply to

              (i)  any tax lien for taxes not yet due and payable, or any lien
              securing workers' compensation or unemployment insurance
              obligations, or any mechanic's, carrier's or landlord's lien, or
              any lien arising under ERISA, or any security interest arising
              under article four (bank deposits and collections) or five
              (letters of credit) of the Uniform Commercial Code, or any
              similar security interest or other lien. EXCEPT that this clause
              (i) shall apply only to security interests and other liens
              arising by operation of law (whether statutory or common law)
              and in the ordinary course of business and shall not apply to
              any security interest or other lien that secures any
              indebtedness for borrowed money or any Guaranty thereof or any
              obligation that is in material default in any manner (other than
              any default contested in good faith by timely and appropriate
              proceedings effective to stay enforcement of the security
              interest or other lien in question and against which a bond has
              been posted or appropriate reserves shall have been
              established),


                                      26
<PAGE>   35

              (ii)  zoning or deed restrictions, public utility easements,
              minor title irregularities and similar matters in each case
              having no material adverse effect as a practical matter on the
              ownership or use of any of the property in question,

              (iii)  any lien securing or given in lieu of surety, stay, appeal
              or performance bonds, or securing performance of contracts or
              bids (other than contracts for the payment of money borrowed),
              or deposits required by law or governmental regulations or by
              any court order, decree, judgment or rule or as a condition to
              the transaction of business or the exercise of any right,
              privilege or license, EXCEPT that this clause (iii) shall not
              apply to any lien or deposit securing an obligation that is in
              material default in any manner (other than any default contested
              in good faith by timely and appropriate proceedings effective to
              stay enforcement of the security interest or other lien in
              question and against which a bond has been posted or appropriate
              reserves shall have been established),

              (iv)  any mortgage, security interest or other lien securing only
              the Subject Indebtedness which may hereafter be granted by a
              Company by agreement of the parties hereto,

              (v)  any mortgage, security interest or other lien (each, a
              "purchase money security interest") which is created or assumed
              in purchasing, leasing (pursuant to a capitalized lease),
              constructing or improving any real property or equipment or to
              which any such property is subject when purchased, PROVIDED,
              that (A) the purchase money security interest shall be confined
              to the aforesaid property, (B) the indebtedness secured thereby
              does not exceed the total cost of the purchase construction or
              improvement, (C) any such indebtedness, if repaid in whole or in
              part, cannot be reborrowed and (D) the aggregate amount of all
              such purchase money security interest does not exceed Five
              Million Dollars ($5,000,000) in any fiscal year,

              (vi)  any lease other than any capitalized lease (it being agreed
              that a capitalized lease is a lien rather than a lease for the
              purposes of this Agreement),

              (vii)  any mortgage, security interest or other lien which
              (together with the indebtedness secured thereby) is fully
              disclosed in the Companies' December 31, 1995 consolidated
              audited financial statements or in the Supplemental Schedule,

              (viii)  any mortgage, security interest or other lien permitted
              by this Section 3D.04 securing any indebtedness permitted by
              this Agreement that is a renewal, extension or refinancing of
              such indebtedness; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that (i) such extended,
              renewed or replacement mortgage, security interest or other lien
              shall be limited to all or a part of the same property that
              secured the lien extended, renewed or replaced and (ii) the
              indebtedness secured thereby shall not be increased; or



                                      27
<PAGE>   36


              (ix)  any financing statement perfecting a security interest that
              would be permissible under this subsection.

3D.05 DIVIDENDS -- No Company shall make or commit itself to make any
Distribution to its shareholders at any time; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that, so long
as no Default Under This Agreement shall then exist or would thereupon occur,
the Borrower may, during any fiscal year, make Distributions consisting of
dividends payable solely in cash in an aggregate amount not to exceed the
greater of (a) Ten Million Dollars ($10,000,000) or (b) twenty-five percent
(25%) of the consolidated Net Income of the Companies for such fiscal year.

3D.06 CHANGE IN NATURE OF BUSINESS -- No Company shall make any material
change in the nature of its business as carried on at the date hereof.

3D.07 ACCOUNTING CHANGES -- No Company shall make or permit any change in
accounting policies or reporting practices, except as required by law or as
required or permitted by GAAP applicable to such Company from time to time.

3D.08 AMENDMENT; DEFAULT OF MATERIAL CONTRACTS -- Other than in the exercise
of reasonable business judgment, no Company shall cancel or terminate any
Material Contract or consent to or accept any cancellation or termination
thereof. No Company shall (i) amend or otherwise modify in any material
respect any Material Contract or give any consent, waiver or approval
thereunder; (ii) permit any material default by such Company to exist beyond
any applicable cure period; (iii) waive any material default under or breach
of any Material Contract; or (iv) agree in any manner to any other material
amendment, modification or change of any term or condition of any Material
Contract or take any other action in connection with any Material Contract
that might reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on the
business or financial condition of the Companies on a consolidated basis or
that would materially impair the interest or rights of NCB-Agent or any Bank.

3D.09 USE OF PROCEEDS -- The Borrower shall not use the proceeds of any Subject
Loan for any purpose other than the refinancing of the existing indebtedness to
certain of the Banks, providing funds for acquisitions, joint ventures, capital
expenditures and general corporate purposes consistent with and subject to the
terms and provisions hereof.

3D.10 ADVERSE OBLIGATIONS; LABOR DISPUTES -- No Company shall be subject to any
contract, agreement, corporate restriction, judgment, decree or order
materially and adversely affecting the business, property, assets, operations
or condition, financial or otherwise, of the Companies on a consolidated basis.
No Company shall be a party to any labor dispute other than grievance disputes
which do not materially and adversely affect the business, property, assets,
operations or condition, financial or otherwise, of the Companies on a
consolidated basis. No Company shall be subject to any material strikes, slow
downs, walkouts or other concerted interruptions of operations by employees
whether or not relating to any labor contracts other than strikes, slow downs,
walkouts or other


                                      28
<PAGE>   37

     concerted interruptions which do not materially and adversely affect the
     business, property, assets, operations or condition, financial or
     otherwise, of the Companies on a consolidated basis.

4A.  CLOSING -- Prior to or at the execution and delivery of this Agreement
Borrower shall have complied or caused compliance with each of the following:

     4A.01 NOTES -- Borrower shall execute and deliver to each Bank a Term Note
     and an Initial Revolving Note in accordance with subsection 2A.01 and
     2C.01. Upon Borrower's execution and delivery of the Initial Revolving
     Notes and the Term Notes to the Banks, each of the Banks agree to return
     to Borrower the revolving notes issued by Borrower in connection with the  
     Prior Credit Agreement and the same shall be either marked "cancelled" or
     "substituted". 

     4A.02 RESOLUTIONS/INCUMBENCY -- Borrower's secretary or assistant secretary
     shall have certified to Banks (a) a copy of resolutions duly adopted by its
     board of directors in respect of this Agreement and the transactions
     contemplated hereby and the Acquisition Agreement and the transactions
     contemplated thereby, and (b) the names and true signatures of officers
     authorized to execute and deliver this Agreement, the Acquisition
     Agreement, the Acquisition Documents and Related Writings on behalf of
     Borrower and the secretary or assistant secretary of each of the current
     Guarantors shall have delivered a similar certification to Banks in regard
     to authorization of its respective guaranty.

     4A.03 LEGAL OPINION -- Borrower's, Seller's and each of the Current
     Guarantors' counsel shall have rendered to Banks their written opinion in
     respect of the matters referred to in subsections 4B.01, 4B.02, 4B.03, 
     4B.04 and 4B.23 as they relate to Borrower, Seller and each of the Current
     Guarantors, and also as to the obtaining of all necessary consents so that
     this Agreement will not breach the Acquisition Agreement, any of the
     Acquisition Documents, or the Note Purchase Agreement, which opinion shall
     be in such form and substance (and may be subject only to such
     qualifications and exceptions, if any) as shall be satisfactory to the
     Required Banks and substantially similar to the acceptable form of legal
     opinion previously provided by NCB-Agent to Borrower and its counsel.

     4A.04 CONSUMMATION OF ACQUISITION -- Borrower shall have furnished to Banks
     evidence, in form and substance satisfactory to Banks, that all
     transactions contemplated by the Acquisition Agreement to occur on or
     before the closing date set forth therein, including, without limitation,
     the Acquisition, have been consummated.

     4A.05 ACQUISITION DOCUMENTS -- Borrower shall have furnished to Banks true
     and correct copies, certified to Banks by an officer of Borrower, of the
     executed Acquisition Agreement and each of the Acquisition Documents, each
     of which shall be in form and substance satisfactory to Banks.



                                      29
<PAGE>   38



        4A.06 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Borrower shall have furnished to Banks at
        least one (1) true and complete copy of each of the following: the
        annual audit report (including, without limitation, all financial
        statements therein and notes thereto and the accompanying accountants'
        opinion and management report) of the Companies prepared as at December
        31, 1995 and annual audit reports for each of the two (2) next
        preceding fiscal years (each having been certified by Ernst & Young)
        and unaudited interim financial statements prepared as at September 30,
        1996. 

        4A.07 DOCUMENTATION FEE -- Borrower shall have paid NCB-Agent, for its
        own account, a documentation fee in an amount agreed upon by and
        between Borrower and NCB-Agent.

        4A.08 CLOSING FEE -- Borrower shall have paid NCB-Agent, for the
        account of the Banks, the closing fee payable pursuant to Section
        2A.05 hereof.

        4A.09 OTHER DOCUMENTS -- Borrower shall execute or deliver to NCB-Agent
        such other agreements, instruments and documents, including, without
        limitation, those listed below, which NCB-Agent may require to be
        executed and/or delivered in connection herewith (all of which shall be
        in form and substance acceptable to NCB-Agent and its counsel):

             (a)  Evidence that the Companies possess insurance satisfying the
             requirements of Section 3C.04 hereof. Insurance certificates
             respecting the same shall be delivered to NCB-Agent on behalf of
             the Banks and shall name NCB-Agent as lender loss payee. In
             addition, the certificates shall contain a statement that NCB-
             Agent will be provided with thirty (30) days written notice prior
             to any cancellation, termination or expiration of such insurance
             coverage and such statement may not provide that the issuing
             company will merely "endeavor to" provide such notice nor may such
             statement contain limitation of liability language for the issuing
             company or its representatives in the event of their failure to
             provide such notice;

             (b)  Certificates of good standing for each of Borrower, Seller
             and each of the Current Guarantors;

             (c)  Certificate of incorporation of each of Borrower, Seller and
             each of the Current Guarantors, certified by the respective
             secretary of state or similar government official of the state or
             other similar governmental body in which each such Person is
             incorporated; 

             (d)  A disbursement authorization, in form and substance
             acceptable to NCB-Agent, directing the disbursement of the
             proceeds of the Subject Loans; and

             (e)  Guaranties by the respective Current Guarantors, of
             Borrower's Debt to Banks and NCB Agent.


                                      30
<PAGE>   39

4B.  REPRESENTATIONS/WARRANTIES -- Subject only to such additions and
exceptions, if any, as may be set forth in the Supplemental Schedule or in
Borrower's Most Recent 4A.04 Financial Statements, Borrower represents and
warrants as follows:

     4B.01 EXISTENCE -- The Borrower and each of its Subsidiaries is duly
     organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the
     state of its incorporation. EXHIBIT G sets forth the name and address of
     each of the Borrower's Subsidiaries existing as of the closing date, the
     chief executive office of each Subsidiary and the jurisdiction in which
     each such Subsidiary is incorporated. All of the outstanding stock of each
     such Subsidiary is owned by the Borrower and is fully paid and
     non-assessable and owned by Borrower free from any security interest,
     option, equity or other right of any kind. The Borrower and each of its
     Subsidiaries is duly qualified to transact business in each state or other
     jurisdiction in which it owns or leases any real property or in which the
     nature of the business conducted makes such qualification necessary or, if
     not so qualified, such failure to qualify will have no material adverse
     effect upon the condition (financial or otherwise) of the Companies on a
     consolidated basis and their ability to transact business.

     4B.02 GOVERNMENTAL RESTRICTIONS -- No registration with or approval of any
     governmental agency of any kind is required on the part of any Company or
     Seller which has not been made and/or obtained, as the case may be, for
     the due execution and delivery or for the enforceability of this
     Agreement, the Acquisition Agreement, any Acquisition Document or any
     Related Writing.

     4B.03 POWER, AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT; ENFORCEABILITY -- The execution,
     delivery and performance by the Borrower of this Agreement, the
     Acquisition Agreement, the Acquisition Documents and the Related Writings
     to which it is party (a) are within the Borrower's legal power and
     authority, (b) have been duly authorized by all necessary or proper action
     of such the Borrower, (c) will not violate (i) any provision of law
     applicable to the Borrower, (ii) any provision of the Borrower's or any
     other Company's, as the case may be, certificate or articles of
     incorporation or by-laws or regulations, or (iii) any material agreement
     or material indenture by which any Company or the property of any Company
     is bound, except where such violation specified in this clause (iii) would
     not have a materially adverse effect on the Companies taken as a whole, or
     (d) will not result in the creation or imposition of any lien or
     encumbrance on any property or assets of the Companies. This Agreement
     constitutes, the Acquisition Agreement constitutes, the Acquisition
     Documents and the Related Writings when duly executed will constitute, the
     legal, valid and binding obligations of Borrower, enforceable against
     Borrower in accordance with its respective terms subject to any applicable
     insolvency or bankruptcy law of general applicability and general
     principles of equity. The guaranties of the respective Current Guarantors
     each constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of such Current
     Guarantor, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms subject to
     any applicable insolvency or bankruptcy law of general applicability and
     general principles of equity. The Acquisition Agreement constitutes the
     legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller, enforceable against it
     in accordance with its terms 

                                      31
<PAGE>   40


     subject to any applicable insolvency or bankruptcy law of general
     applicability and general principles of equity.

     4B.04 LITIGATION; PROCEEDINGS -- No action, suit, investigation or
     proceeding is now pending or, to the knowledge of Borrower, threatened
     against the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries at law, in equity or
     otherwise, or with respect to this Agreement, the Acquisition Agreement,
     any Acquisition Document or any Related Writing, before any court, board,
     commission, agency or instrumentality of any federal, state, local or
     foreign government or of any agency or subdivision thereof, or before any
     arbitrator or panel of arbitrators which might reasonably be expected to
     have a material adverse effect on the condition (financial or otherwise)
     of the Companies on a consolidated basis.

     4B.05 TAXES -- Each Company has filed all federal, state, local, foreign
     and domestic tax returns which are required to be filed by it and paid all
     taxes due as shown thereon, including interest and penalties (except to
     the extent, if any, permitted by Section 3C.01).

     4B.06 TITLE -- Each Company has good and marketable title to all of its
     assets reflected in the Companies' Most Recent 4A.04 Financial Statements
     except for changes resulting from transactions in the ordinary course of
     business. All such assets are free of all mortgages, security interests or
     other liens other than those otherwise permitted by Section 3D.04.

     4B.07 LAWFUL OPERATIONS -- Except as set forth in the Supplemental
     Schedule, the operations of each Company are in full compliance with all
     material requirements imposed by law or regulation, whether federal, state
     or local including (without limitation) all environmental protection laws,
     occupational safety and health laws and zoning ordinances.

     4B.08 INSURANCE -- The insurance coverage of the Companies complies with
     the standards set forth in subsection 3C.04.

     4B.09 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- The Borrower's annual report (including,
     without limitation, all financial statements therein and the notes thereto
     and the accompanying accountants' certificate and management report),
     prepared as at December 31, 1995 and certified by Ernst & Young, and the
     Borrower's unaudited interim financial statements prepared as at September
     30, 1996, each of which has been heretofore furnished by the Borrower to
     each Bank (i) have been prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a
     consistent basis with those used by it during its fiscal year ended
     December 31, 1995 except to the extent, if any, specifically noted therein
     and (ii) fairly present in all material respects (subject to routine
     year-end audit adjustments in the case of the unaudited financial
     statements) the consolidating and consolidated financial condition of the
     Borrower and its Subsidiaries as of the respective dates thereof
     (including a full disclosure of material liabilities, if any) and the
     consolidating and consolidated results of their operations, if any, for
     the respective fiscal periods then ending. As of the closing date, there
     has been no material adverse change in the financial condition, properties
     or business of the Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries since the December
     31, 1995 financial


                                      32
<PAGE>   41

     statements nor any changes in the Borrower's accounting procedures since
     the end of the Borrower's 1995 latest full fiscal year. The Acquisition
     Projections are based upon reasonable assumptions, are not misleading,
     and, to the best of Borrower's knowledge, are accurate in all material
     respects.

     4B.10 INDEBTEDNESS -- Except for the line of Credit of Target with
     NationsBank in the amount of One Million Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars
     ($1,700,000), no Company has outstanding any material indebtedness for
     borrowed money or any Funded Indebtedness of any kind except any which is
     not prohibited by subsection 3D.03.

     4B.11 ERISA -- No material Accumulated Funding Deficiency exists in
     respect of any Pension Plan of any Companies or any of their ERISA
     Affiliates. No Reportable Event has occurred in respect of any Pension
     Plan which is continuing and which (i) constitutes grounds either for
     termination of the plan or for court appointment of a trustee for the
     administration thereof or (ii) is reasonably likely to have a material
     adverse effect on the Companies on a consolidated basis. No "prohibited
     transaction" (as defined in section 406 of ERISA or Section 4975 of the
     Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended), has occurred that has resulted
     in or is reasonably likely to result in any liability which has a material
     adverse effect on the Companies on a consolidated basis. None of the
     Companies or any of their ERISA Affiliates has (i) had an obligation to
     contribute to any Multiemployer Plan, as defined in Section 4001(a)(3) of
     ERISA, since 1987 or (ii) incurred or reasonably expects to incur any
     liability for the withdrawal from such a Multiemployer Plan which
     liability would have a material adverse effect on the Companies on a
     consolidated basis.

     4B.12 ADVERSE OBLIGATIONS; LABOR DISPUTES -- No Company is subject to any
     contract, agreement, corporate restriction, judgment, decree or order
     materially and adversely affecting its business, property, assets,
     operations or condition, financial or otherwise, is a party to any labor
     dispute (other than grievance disputes which do not in the aggregate
     materially and adversely affect any of their respective operations,
     financial condition, or business), and, there are no material strikes,
     slow downs, walkouts or other concerted interruptions of operations by
     employees whether or not relating to any labor contracts.

     4B.13 SOLVENCY -- After giving effect to the transactions contemplated by
     this Agreement, the Acquisition Agreement, the Acquisition Documents and
     the Related Writings, the following shall be true as to each Company: (i)
     the fair saleable value of such party's assets is greater than the amount
     required to pay its total liabilities, (ii) such party is able to pay its
     debts as they mature and is not otherwise insolvent in any respect and
     (iii) such party's capital is sufficient and not unreasonably small for
     the business and transactions in which such party is engaged or about to
     engage.

     4B.14 INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT STATUS -- No Company is an "investment 
     company" or an "affiliate person" of, or "promoter" or "principal
     underwriter" for, an




                                      33
<PAGE>   42

     "investment company", as such terms are defined in the Investment Company
     Act of 1940, as amended (15 U.S.C. Section 80(a)(1), ET SEQ.).

     4B.15 REGULATION U/REGULATION X COMPLIANCE -- The Borrower does not own
     any "margin stock", as that term is defined in Regulation U of the Board
     of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, and the proceeds of the
     borrowings made pursuant to this Agreement will be used only for the
     purposes contemplated hereunder.

     4B.16 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY MATTERS -- Except for copper emissions from
     the Target's plant in Durham, North Carolina (which emissions do not
     violate applicable Environmental Laws), hazardous materials have not been
     released or disposed of on any property owned or leased by a Company or,
     to the best knowledge of the Borrower, any property adjoining any such
     properties. All environmental permits have been obtained and are in effect
     for the operations conducted at all property owned or leased by a Company.
     The Companies are in material compliance with all applicable Environmental
     Laws and all environmental permits. The Companies have disposed of all
     wastes generated, including wastes containing hazardous materials, in
     material compliance with all applicable Environmental Laws and
     environmental permits. There are no past, pending or, to the actual
     knowledge of the Borrower, threatened environmental claims against the
     Companies that individually or in the aggregate could have a material
     adverse effect on the Companies on a consolidated basis. No property owned
     or leased by a Company or, to the best knowledge of the Borrower, any
     property adjoining any such property, is listed or proposed for listing on
     the National Priorities List under CERCLA or on any other list maintained
     by any governmental authority of sites requiring environmental
     investigation or cleanup. No Company has transported or arranged for the
     transportation of any hazardous materials to any location that is listed
     or proposed for listing on the National Priorities List under CERCLA or on
     any other analogous list or, to the best knowledge of the Borrower, to any
     location that is the subject of any environmental claim. To the best
     knowledge of the Borrower, there are no circumstances with respect to any
     property owned or leased by a Company or the operations of any Company
     that could reasonably be anticipated (i) to form the basis of an
     environmental claim against such Company or any property owned or leased
     by a Company that individually or in the aggregate might materially and
     adversely effect the Companies on a consolidated basis or (ii) to cause
     any property owned or leased by a Company to be subject to any
     restrictions on ownership, occupancy, use or transferability under any
     applicable Environmental Law.

     4B.17 REAL PROPERTY -- Each Company has good, marketable and insurable fee
     simple title to the real property owned by it, free and clear of all
     mortgages, liens or encumbrances, other than liens permitted hereunder.

     4B.18 LEASES -- Each lease of real property under which any Company is the
     lessee is the legal, valid and binding obligation of the lessor thereof,
     enforceable in accordance with its terms (subject to limitations imposed
     by general principles of equity (regardless whether such enforceability is
     considered in a proceeding at law or in equity) and the 


                                      34
<PAGE>   43


     effect of applicable bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium
     and similar laws of general application relating to or affecting
     creditors' rights).

     4B.19 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY -- Each Company owns or possess all the
     patents, trademarks, service marks, copyrights, licenses and rights with
     respect to the foregoing necessary for the conduct of its business without
     any known conflict with the rights of others.

     4B.20 DEFAULTS -- No Default Under This Agreement exists, nor will any
     exist immediately after the execution and delivery of this Agreement.

     4B.21 NOTEHOLDERS AND NOTE PURCHASE AGREEMENT -- The Noteholders are the
     only holders of notes pursuant to the Note Purchase Agreement. The
     execution of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions
     contemplated hereby do not conflict with the terms of the Note Purchase
     Agreement or cause any default thereunder and all necessary consents have
     been obtained.

     4B.22 FULL DISCLOSURE -- Neither this Agreement or any Related Writing,
     nor any written statement made by Borrower in connection herewith or
     therewith, contains any untrue statement of a material fact or omits a
     material fact necessary to make the statements contained herein or therein
     not misleading. There is no fact which Borrower has not disclosed to Banks
     which has or is likely to have a material adverse effect on Borrower's,
     property, business, operations, prospects, profitability or condition
     (financial or otherwise) or on Borrower's ability to repay the Subject
     Indebtedness as contemplated hereby and in the Related Writings.

     4B.23 CONSUMMATION OF ACQUISITION -- All of the transactions contemplated
     by the Acquisition Agreement to occur on or before the closing date set
     forth therein, including, without limitation, the Acquisition, have been
     duly consummated.

4C. CLOSING OF REFINANCING -- Prior to the effectiveness of the Refinancing
pursuant to subsection 2A.02 hereof, Borrower shall execute and deliver to each
Bank a Refinancing Revolving Note in accordance with subsection 2C.01. Upon
Borrower's execution and delivery of the Refinancing Revolving Notes, each of
the Banks agree to return to Borrower the Initial Revolving Notes and the Term
Notes and the same shall be either marked "cancelled" or "substituted".

5A. EVENTS OF DEFAULT -- Each of the following shall constitute an Event Of
Default hereunder:

     5A.01 PAYMENTS -- If any principal included in the Subject Indebtedness
     shall not be paid in full promptly when the same becomes payable; or if
     any Subject Indebtedness (EXCEPT principal) or any other Debt of the
     Companies or any thereof to Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof (EXCEPT any
     payable on demand) shall not be paid in full promptly when the same
     becomes payable and shall remain unpaid for five (5)


                                      35

<PAGE>   44


     consecutive days thereafter; or if such of the Debt of the Companies or
     any thereof to Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof as may be payable on
     demand shall not be paid in full within five (5) days after any actual
     demand for payment.

     5A.02 WARRANTIES -- If any representation, warranty or statement (other
     than any made by any Bank or NCB-Agent) made in this Agreement or in any
     Related Writing shall be false or erroneous in any respect when made or
     deemed made, as the case may be.

     5A.03 COVENANTS WITHOUT GRACE -- If any Company shall fail or omit to
     perform or observe any provisions in subsections 3A.02, 3B.01 through
     3B.03 (inclusive) or 3D.01 through 3D.10 (inclusive).

     5A.04 COVENANTS WITH GRACE -- If anyone (other than the Banks and
     NCB-Agent and their respective agents) shall fail or omit to perform and
     observe any agreement (other than those referred to in subsection 5A.01 or
     5A.03 and not including the representations, warranties and statements
     referred to in subsection 5A.02) contained in this Agreement or any
     Related Writing that is on its part to be complied with, and that failure
     or omission shall not have been fully corrected within ten (10) days after
     the giving of written notice to Borrower by any Bank or NCB-Agent that it
     is to be remedied.

     5A.05 CROSS-DEFAULT -- If any indebtedness of any Company for borrowed
     money (regardless of maturity) or any of its Funded Indebtedness shall be
     or become "in default" (as defined below) EXCEPT any if and so long as the
     aggregate unpaid principal balance of all such indebtedness in default
     does not exceed Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) at any one time
     outstanding or if any Event of Default occurs pursuant to the Note
     Purchase Agreement or upon the prepayment of the senior notes issued
     pursuant thereto upon a Change in Control as provided in Section 8.4 of
     the Note Purchase Agreement. In this subsection, "in default" means that
     (a) there shall have occurred (or shall exist) in respect of the
     indebtedness in question (either as in effect at the date of this
     Agreement or as in effect at the time in question) any event, condition or
     other thing which constitutes, or which with the giving of notice or the
     lapse of any applicable grace period or both would constitute, a default
     which accelerates (or permits any creditor or creditors or representative
     or creditors to accelerate) the maturity of any such indebtedness; or (b)
     any such indebtedness (other than any payable on demand) shall not have
     been paid in full at its stated maturity; or (c) any such indebtedness
     payable on demand shall not have been paid in full within ten (10) Banking
     Days after any actual demand for payment.

     5A.06 CONTROL -- If (x) any "person" or "group" shall become the
     "beneficial owner" (as those terms are respectively used in the Securities
     and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations
     thereunder) of more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding voting
     stock of the Borrower or shall otherwise acquire the power (whether by
     contract, by proxy or otherwise) to elect a majority of the Borrower's
     board of directors or (y) during any twelve (12) month period, individuals
     who were directors of the Borrower at the beginning of such period or were
     elected to the Board of Directors 


                                      36
<PAGE>   45


     of the Borrower with the approval of a majority of such directors shall
     cease to constitute a majority of the Board of Directors.

     5A.07 BORROWER'S SOLVENCY -- If (a) Borrower shall discontinue operations,
     or (b) Borrower shall commence any Insolvency Action of any kind or admit
     (by answer, default or otherwise) the material allegations of, or consent
     to any relief requested in, any Insolvency Action of any kind commenced
     against Borrower by its creditors or any thereof, or (c) any creditor or
     creditors shall commence against Borrower any Insolvency Action of any
     kind which shall remain in effect (neither dismissed nor stayed) for
     ninety (90) consecutive days.

     5A.08 SUBSIDIARIES' SOLVENCY -- If (a) any Subsidiary of Borrower shall
     commence any Insolvency Action of any kind or admit (by answer, default or
     otherwise) the material allegations of, or consent to any relief requested
     in, any Insolvency Action of any kind commenced against that Subsidiary by
     its creditors or any thereof, or (b) any creditor or creditors of any
     Subsidiary of Borrower shall commence against that Subsidiary any
     Insolvency Action of any kind which shall remain in effect (neither
     dismissed nor stayed) for ninety (90) consecutive days.

     5A.09 JUDGMENTS -- If one or more judgments for the payment of money in an
     aggregate amount in excess of Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) (or the
     equivalent thereof if not denominated in Dollars) (unless such judgment
     (i) shall have been reserved by the Borrower or the applicable Subsidiary
     on the date hereof or (ii) shall be insured and the insurance carrier
     shall have acknowledged in writing liability in respect of the full amount
     thereof or shall have been ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction to
     pay such judgment) shall be rendered and remain undischarged against the
     Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries or any combination thereof and as to
     which either (x) execution shall not be effectively stayed within a period
     of thirty (30) consecutive days or (y) any action shall be legally taken
     by a judgment creditor to levy upon assets or properties of the Borrower
     or any of its Subsidiaries to enforce any such judgment.

     5A.10 MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE -- If there shall occur any event, condition
     or other thing that has, or in the Required Banks' reasonable judgment is
     likely to have, a material adverse effect on the financial condition,
     properties or business operations of the Companies taken as a whole or on
     Banks' or NCB-Agent's ability to enforce any material right arising under
     or in connection with this Agreement or any other Related Writing.

5B.  EFFECTS OF DEFAULT -- Notwithstanding any contrary provision or inference
in this Agreement or in any Related Writing:

     5B.01 OPTIONAL DEFAULTS -- If any Event Of Default referred to in
     subsections 5A.01 through 5A.06, both inclusive, or 5A.09 or 5A.10 shall
     occur and be continuing, the Required Banks shall have the right in their
     discretion, by giving written notice to Borrower,



                                      37
<PAGE>   46


          (a)  to terminate the Revolving Commitments (if not already expired
          or reduced to zero pursuant to section 2B or terminated pursuant to
          this section) and no Bank shall have any obligation thereafter to
          grant any Revolving Loan to Borrower, and

          (b)  to accelerate the Maturity of all of the Subject Indebtedness
          and all other Debt, if any, then owing to the Banks and NCB-Agent or
          any thereof (other than Debt, if any, already due and payable) and
          all such Debt shall thereupon become and thereafter be immediately
          due and payable in full without any presentment or demand and
          without any further or other notice of any kind, all of which are
          hereby waived by Borrower.

     5B.02 AUTOMATIC DEFAULTS --If any Event Of Default referred to in
     subsection 5A.07 or 5A.08 shall occur,

     (a)  the Revolving Commitments shall automatically and immediately
     terminate (if not already expired or reduced to zero pursuant to section
     2B or terminated pursuant to this section) and no Bank shall have any
     obligation thereafter to grant any Revolving Loan to Borrower, and

     (b)  all of the Subject Indebtedness and all other Debt, if any, then
     owing to the Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof (other than Debt, if any,
     already due and payable) shall thereupon become and thereafter be
     immediately due and payable in full, all without any presentment, demand
     or notice of any kind, which are hereby waived by Borrower.

     5B.03 OFFSETS -- If there shall occur or exist any Default Under This
     Agreement then, so long as that Default Under This Agreement exists, each
     Bank shall have the right at any time to set off against and to
     appropriate and apply toward the payment of the Subject Indebtedness then
     owing to it (and any participation purchased or to be purchased pursuant
     to subsection 5B.05), whether or not the same shall then have matured,
     any and all deposit balances then owing by that Bank to or for the credit
     or account of the Companies or any thereof, all without notice to or
     demand upon Borrower or any Subsidiary or any other person, all such
     notices and demands being hereby expressly waived.

     5B.04 EQUALIZATION -- Each Bank agrees with the other Banks that if at
     any time it shall obtain any Advantage over the other Banks or any
     thereof in respect of the Subject Indebtedness it will purchase from such
     other Bank or Banks, for cash and at par, such additional participation
     in the Subject Indebtedness owing to the other or others as shall be
     necessary to nullify the Advantage. If any such Advantage resulting in
     the purchase of an additional participation as aforesaid shall be
     recovered in whole or in part from the Bank receiving the Advantage, each
     such purchase shall be rescinded, and the purchase price restored (with
     interest and other charges if and to the extent actually incurred by the
     Bank receiving the Advantage) Ratably to the extent of the recovery.
     During the existence of any Event of Default, any payment (whether made
     voluntarily or 

                                      38
<PAGE>   47


    involuntarily, by offset of any deposit or other indebtedness or
    otherwise) of any indebtedness for borrowed money owing by Borrower to any
    Bank shall be applied to the Subject Indebtedness owing to that Bank until
    the same shall have been paid in full before any thereof shall be applied
    to other indebtedness for borrowed money owing to that Bank.

6A. INDEMNITY: STAMP TAXES -- Borrower will pay all stamp taxes and similar
taxes, if any, including interest and penalties, if any, payable in respect of
the issuance of the Subject Indebtedness.

6B. INDEMNITY: GOVERNMENTAL COSTS/LIBOR-RATE LOANS -- If

    (a)  there shall be introduced or changed any treaty, statute, regulation
    or other law, or there shall be made any change in the interpretation or
    administration thereof, or there shall be made any request from any
    central bank or other lawful governmental authority, the effect of any of
    which events shall be to (1) impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve
    or special deposit requirements against assets held by or deposits in or
    Loans by any national banking association or other commercial banking
    institution (whether or not applicable to any Bank) or any Bank or (2)
    subject any Bank to any tax, duty, fee, deduction or withholding or (3)
    change the basis of taxation of payments due to any Bank from Borrower
    (otherwise than by a change in taxation of that Bank's overall Net
    Income), or (4) impose on any Bank any penalty in respect of any loans
    bearing interest at a LIBOR rate and

    (b)  in that Bank's sole opinion any such event (1) increases (or, if the
    event were applicable to that Bank, would increase) the cost of making,
    funding or maintaining any loans at such rate or (2) reduces the amount of
    any payment to be made to that Bank in respect of the principal or
    interest on any loans bearing interest at such rate or other payment under
    this Agreement, then, within fifteen (15) business days of such Bank's
    demand, Borrower shall from time to time pay Bank an amount equal to each
    such cost increase or reduced payment, as the case may be.

6C. INDEMNITY: FUNDING COSTS -- Borrower agrees to indemnify each Bank against
any loss relating in any way to its funding of any loan bearing interest at a
LIBOR rate paid before its stated Maturity (whether a prepayment or a payment
following any acceleration of Maturity) and to pay that Bank, as liquidated
damages for any such loss, an amount (discounted to the present value in
accordance with standard financial practice at a rate equal to the Treasury
Yield) equal to interest computed on the principal payment from the payment
date to the respective stated maturities thereof at a rate equal to the
difference of the contract rate less the Treasury Yield, all as determined by
the Bank in its reasonable discretion. "Treasury Yield" means the annual yield
on direct obligations of the United States having a principal amount and
Maturity similar to that of the principal being paid.

6D. CREDIT REQUESTS -- Whenever Borrower shall revoke any Credit Request for a
LIBOR loan, or shall for any other reason fail to borrow pursuant thereto or
otherwise comply 


                                      39
<PAGE>   48


therewith, or shall fail to honor any prepayment notice, then, in each case on
any Bank's demand, Borrower shall pay each Bank such amount as will compensate
it for any loss, cost or expense incurred by it by reason of its liquidation
or reemployment of deposits or other funds.

6E. INDEMNITY: UNFRIENDLY TAKEOVERS -- Borrower agrees to indemnify each Bank
and NCB-Agent (each an "Indemnitee") and hold each Indemnitee harmless from
and against any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs and expenses of
any kind (including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and disbursements
of counsel in connection with any investigative, administrative or judicial
proceeding, whether or not such Indemnitee shall be designated a party
thereto) which may be incurred by each Indemnitee relating to or arising out
of any actual or proposed use of proceeds of the Revolving Loans in connection
with the financing of an acquisition of any corporation or other business
entity, PROVIDED that no Indemnitee shall have the right to be indemnified
hereunder for its own gross negligence or willful misconduct as determined by
a court of competent jurisdiction.

6F. INDEMNITY: CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS -- If

    (a)  at any time any governmental authority shall require any Bank (or any
    corporate shareholder of that Bank), whether or not the requirement has
    the force of law, to maintain, as support for that Bank's Revolving
    Commitment, capital in a specified minimum amount that either is not
    required or is greater than that required at the date of this Agreement,
    whether the requirement is implemented pursuant to the "risk-based capital
    guidelines" (published at 12 CFR 3 in respect of "national banking
    associations", 12 CFR 208 in respect of "state member banks" and 12 CFR
    225 in respect of "bank holding companies") or otherwise, and

    (b)  as a result thereof the rate of return on capital of that Bank or its
    shareholder or both (taking into account their then policies as to capital
    adequacy and assuming full utilization of their capital) shall be directly
    or indirectly reduced by reason of any new or added capital thereby
    allocable to that Bank's Revolving Commitment,

then and in each such case Borrower shall, on that Bank's demand, pay that
Bank as an additional fee such amounts as will in that Bank's reasonable
opinion reimburse that Bank or its shareholder for any such reduced rate of
return.

6G. INDEMNITY: COLLECTION COSTS -- If any Event Of Default shall occur and
shall be continuing, Borrower will pay the Banks and NCB-Agent such further
amounts, to the extent permitted by law, as shall cover their respective costs
and expenses (including, without limitation, the reasonable fees
interdepartmental charges and disbursements of its counsel) incurred in
collecting the Subject Indebtedness or in otherwise enforcing its rights and
remedies in respect thereof.

6H. CERTIFICATE FOR INDEMNIFICATION -- Each demand by NCB-Agent or a Bank for
payment pursuant to section 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F or 6G shall be accompanied
by a certificate setting forth the reason for the payment, the amount to be
paid, and the computations 

                                      40
<PAGE>   49




and assumptions in determining the amount, which certificate shall be presumed
to be correct in the absence of manifest error. In determining the amount of
any such payment, each Bank may use reasonable averaging and attribution
methods.

7A. BANK'S PURPOSE -- Each Bank represents and warrants to the other Banks and
to Borrower that such Bank is familiar with the Securities Act of 1933 as
amended and the rules and regulations thereunder and is not entering into this
Agreement with any intention of violating that Act or any rule or regulation
thereunder, it being understood, however, that each Bank shall at all times
retain full control of the disposition of its assets.

7B. NCB-AGENT -- Each Bank irrevocably appoints NCB to be its agent with full
authority to take such actions, and to exercise such powers, on behalf of the
Banks in respect of this Agreement and the Related Writings as are therein
respectively delegated to NCB-Agent or as are reasonably incidental to those
delegated powers.

    7B.01 NATURE OF APPOINTMENT -- NCB-Agent shall have no fiduciary
    relationship with any Bank by reason of this Agreement and the Related
    Writings, nor shall NCB-Agent have any duty or responsibility whatever to
    any Bank EXCEPT those expressly set forth in this Agreement and the
    Related Writings. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each
    Bank acknowledges that NCB-Agent is acting as such solely as a convenience
    to the Banks and not as a manager of the Subject Loans or Subject
    Indebtedness. This section 7B does not confer any rights upon Borrower or
    anyone else (EXCEPT NCB-Agent and the Banks), whether as a third party
    beneficiary or otherwise.

    7B.02 NCB AS A BANK; OTHER TRANSACTIONS -- NCB's rights under this
    Agreement and the Related Writings shall not be affected by its serving as
    NCB-Agent. NCB and its affiliates may generally transact any banking,
    financial, trust, advisory or other business with Borrower (including,
    without limitation, the acceptance of deposits, the extension of credit,
    forward exchange rate contracts, interest rate caps, swaps, collars and
    other like contracts and the acceptance of fiduciary appointments) without
    notice to the Banks, without accounting to the Banks, and without
    prejudice to NCB's rights as a Bank under this Agreement and the Related
    Writings.

    7B.03 INSTRUCTION FROM BANKS -- NCB-Agent shall not be required to
    exercise any discretion or take any action as to matters not expressly
    provided for by this Agreement and the Related Writings (including,
    without limitation, collection and enforcement actions in respect of the
    Subject Indebtedness and any collateral therefor) EXCEPT that NCB-Agent
    shall take such action (or omit to take such action) as may be reasonably
    requested of it in writing by the Required Banks, which instructions and
    which actions and omissions shall be binding upon all the Banks; PROVIDED,
    that NCB-Agent shall not be required to act (nor omit any act) if, in its
    reasonable judgment, any such action or omission might expose NCB-Agent to
    personal liability or might be contrary to this Agreement, any Related
    Writing or any applicable law. 

                                      41
<PAGE>   50


    7B.04 BANKS' DILIGENCE -- Each Bank

        (a)  represents and warrants that it has made its decision to enter
        into this Agreement and the Related Writings and

        (b)  agrees that it will make its own decision as to taking or not
        taking future actions in respect of this Agreement and the Related
        Writings

    in each case without reliance on NCB-Agent or any other Bank and on the
    basis of its independent credit analysis and its independent examination
    of and inquiry into such documents and other matters as it deems relevant
    and material.

    7B.05 NO IMPLIED REPRESENTATIONS -- NCB-Agent shall not be liable for any
    representation, warranty, agreement or obligation of any kind of any other
    party to this Agreement or anyone else, whether made or implied by
    Borrower in this Agreement or any Related Writing or by a Bank in any
    notice or other communication or by anyone else or otherwise.

    7B.06 SUB-AGENTS -- NCB-Agent may employ agents and shall not be liable
    (EXCEPT as to money or property received by it or its agents) for any
    negligence or misconduct of any such agent selected by it with reasonable
    care. NCB-Agent may consult with legal counsel, certified public
    accountants and other experts of its choosing (including, without
    limitation, NCB's salaried employees, any employed by Borrower or any
    otherwise not independent) and shall not be liable for any action or
    inaction taken or suffered in good faith by it in accordance with the
    advice of any such counsel, accountants or other experts.

    7B.07 NCB-AGENT'S DILIGENCE -- NCB-Agent shall not be required (a) to keep
    itself informed as to anyone's compliance with any provision of this
    Agreement or any Related Writing, (b) to make any inquiry into the
    properties, financial condition or operations of Borrower or any other
    matter relating to this Agreement or any Related Writing, (c) to report to
    any Bank any information (other than which this Agreement or any Related
    Writing expressly requires to be so reported) that NCB-Agent or any of its
    affiliates may have or acquire in respect of Borrower's properties,
    business or financial condition or any other matter relating to this
    Agreement or any Related Writing or (d) to inquire into the validity,
    effectiveness or genuineness of this Agreement or any Related Writing.

    7B.08 NOTICE OF DEFAULT -- NCB-Agent shall not be deemed to have knowledge
    of any Event of Default unless and until it shall have received a written
    notice describing it and citing the relevant provision of this Agreement
    or any Related Writing.

    7B.09 NCB-AGENT'S LIABILITY -- Neither NCB-Agent nor any of its directors,
    officers, employees, attorneys and other agents shall be liable for any
    action or omission on their respective parts EXCEPT for gross negligence
    or willful misconduct.


                                      42
<PAGE>   51

    7B.10 COMPENSATION -- At the execution and delivery of this Agreement and
    annually thereafter so long as any Subject Loans are outstanding, Borrower
    shall pay NCB-Agent a fee to be determined by mutual agreement of Borrower
    and NCB-Agent. Except as otherwise provided herein, NCB-Agent shall
    receive no other compensation for its services as agent of the Banks in
    respect of this Agreement and the Related Writings, but Borrower shall
    reimburse NCB-Agent periodically on its demand for out-of-pocket expenses.
    if any, reasonably incurred by it as such.

    7B.11 DISBURSEMENTS -- Whenever NCB-Agent shall receive any funds in
    respect of the Subject Indebtedness or otherwise in respect of this
    Agreement or any Related Writing, whether from Borrower for the account of
    the Banks or from the Banks for the account of Borrower, NCB-Agent shall
    disburse the funds on the day the funds shall be deemed to have been
    received. NCB-Agent shall be entitled (but not obligated) to make a timely
    disbursement of loan proceeds to Borrower before actually receiving funds
    from the Banks (EXCEPT if and to the extent NCB-Agent shall have received
    written instructions to the contrary from any Bank or Banks) and to make a
    timely disbursement of payments to the Banks before actually receiving
    funds from Borrower. If the funds to be disbursed are not received by
    NCB-Agent on a timely basis, NCB-Agent at its option may (a) rescind the
    disbursement and require the disbursee to return the funds in question
    with interest or (b) require the party who failed to furnish the funds for
    disbursement on a timely basis to pay NCB-Agent interest thereon -- the
    interest in each case to be computed at the Federal Funds Rate and to be
    paid on demand.

    7B.12 NCB-AGENT'S INDEMNITY -- The Banks shall indemnify NCB-Agent (to the
    extent NCB-Agent is not reimbursed by Borrower) from and against any loss
    or liability (other than any caused by NCB-Agent's gross negligence or
    willful misconduct) incurred by NCB-Agent as such in respect of this
    Agreement or any Related Writing and from and against any out-of-pocket
    expenses incurred in defending itself or otherwise related to this
    Agreement or any Related Writing including, without limitation, reasonable
    fees and disbursements of legal counsel of its own selection (including,
    without limitation, the reasonable interdepartmental charges of its
    salaried attorneys) in the defense of any claim against it or in the
    prosecution of its rights and remedies as NCB-Agent; PROVIDED, that each
    Bank shall be liable for only its Ratable share of the whole loss or
    liability.

    7B.13 RESIGNATION -- NCB-Agent (or any successor) may resign as such at
    any time upon ten (10) days' prior written notice to Borrower and to each
    Bank, in which event the Required Banks may appoint a successor agent by
    giving written notice thereof to Borrower and the resigning agent. In the
    absence of a timely appointment, NCB-Agent shall have the right (but not
    the duty) to make a temporary appointment of any Bank (but only with that
    Bank's consent) to act as its successor pending an appointment pursuant to
    the next preceding sentence. In either case, the successor agent shall
    deliver its written acceptance of appointment to Borrower, to each Bank
    and to the former agent. Thereupon the successor agent shall automatically
    acquire and assume all the rights and duties as those prescribed for
    NCB-Agent by this section 7B. Any resigning agent shall



                                      43
<PAGE>   52



    execute and deliver such assignments and other writings as the successor
    agent may reasonably require to facilitate its becoming the successor
    agent.

7C. TRANSFER OF SUBJECT LOANS -- Each Bank shall have the right at any time or
times to transfer its Subject Loans (or commitment to make the same) in whole
or in part and without recourse to another financial institution (provided
that such transfers shall be in a minimum amount of $10,000,000), PROVIDED, in
each such case. that the transferor and the transferee shall have complied
with the following requirements:

    7C.01 PRIOR CONSENT -- No Subject Loans (or commitment to make the same)
    may be transferred, either in whole or in part, without the prior written
    consent of Borrower and NCB-Agent, neither of which consents shall be
    unreasonably withheld.

    7C.02 AGREEMENT -- The transferee shall execute and deliver to Borrower,
    NCB-Agent and each Bank (other than any transferor which thereafter will
    have no interest in any Subject Loans or any commitment to make the same)
    a counterpart of this Agreement and such additional amendments, assurances
    and other writings as NCB-Agent may reasonably require.

    7C.03 NOTE -- Borrower shall execute and deliver to the transferee an
    appropriate Revolving Note or Revolving Notes, or Term Note or Term Notes,
    as the case may be, and an appropriate release to the transferor.

    7C.04 PARTIES -- Upon satisfaction of the requirements of this section 7C,

        (a)  the transferee shall become and thereafter be deemed to be a Bank
        for the purposes of this Agreement and

        (b)  The transferor (i) shall continue to be a Bank for the purposes of
        this Agreement only if and to the extent that the transfer shall not
        have been a transfer of its entire interest in the Subject Loans (or
        commitment to make the same) and (ii) shall cease to be and thereafter
        shall no longer be deemed to be a Bank in the case of any transfer of
        its entire interest in the Subject Loans (or commitment to make the
        same).

    7C.05 PROCESSING FEE -- The transferor Bank and/or the transferee Bank
    shall pay to NCB-Agent, for its own account, a processing fee of Three
    Thousand Dollars ($3,000) for each such transfer on or prior to the
    effective date thereof.

7D. PARTICIPATION OF SUBJECT LOANS -- Each Bank shall have the right at any
time or times to sell or otherwise transfer participating interests its
Subject Loans in whole or in part (provided that such participating interests
shall be in a minimum amount of $5,000,000) and without recourse, PROVIDED,
that Borrower and NCB-Agent retain the right, for the purposes of this
Agreement, to continue to treat the seller as the sole record holder of the
Subject Loan or Subject Loans in question EXCEPT if and to the extent the
seller's Revolving Commitment


                                      44
<PAGE>   53



shall have been transferred in accordance with section 7C. In the event of a
participation, the selling Bank will remain the holder of all applicable
notes.

8. INTERPRETATION -- This Agreement and the Related Writings (other than the
Acquisition Agreement and the Acquisition Documents) shall be governed by the
following provisions:

    8.01  WAIVERS -- The Banks and NCB-Agent may from time to time grant
    waivers and consents in respect of this Agreement or any Related Writing
    or assent to amendments thereof, but no such waiver, consent or assent
    shall be binding upon the Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof unless (a)
    it shall have been reduced to writing, each such writing to be narrowly
    construed and (b) the waiver, consent or amendment shall have been
    approved by the Required Banks; provided, however, that (i) no amendment,
    waiver or consent shall, unless in writing and signed by all Banks
    directly affected thereby, do any of the following at any time: (A) change
    the percentage of the Revolving Commitments or the aggregate unpaid
    principal amount of the Revolving Notes, (B) change the number or
    percentage of Banks that shall be required for the Banks or any of them to
    take any action hereunder or change the percentage contained in the
    definition of Required Banks, (C) amend this subsection 8.01, (D) decrease
    the principal amount of, or extend the maturity of or any scheduled
    principal or interest payment date for, any Revolving Loan, (E) waive or
    excuse any payment or any part thereof, (F) decrease the rate of interest
    on any Revolving Loan, or (G) change or delay the fees payable to the
    affected Bank and (ii) no amendment, waiver or consent shall affect the
    rights or duties of NCB-Agent without the prior written consent of
    NCB-Agent. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Borrower
    agrees that no course of dealing in respect of, nor any omission or delay
    in the exercise of any right, power or privilege by Banks and NCB-Agent or
    any thereof shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or
    partial exercise thereof preclude any further or other exercise thereof or
    of any other right, power or privilege, and each such right, power or
    privilege may be exercised either independently or concurrently with
    others and as often and in such order as the party or parties exercising
    the same may deem expedient.

    8.02  CUMULATIVE PROVISIONS -- Each right, power or privilege specified or
    referred to in this Agreement or any Related Writing is in addition to and
    not in limitation of any other rights, powers and privileges that Banks
    and NCB-Agent may respectively otherwise have or acquire by operation of
    law, by other contract or otherwise. All rights, powers and privileges
    shall be deemed cumulative.

    8.03  BINDING EFFECT -- The provisions of this Agreement and the Related
    Writings shall bind and benefit Borrower, NCB-Agent and each Bank and
    their respective successors and assigns, including each subsequent holder,
    if any, of the Revolving Notes or any thereof; PROVIDED, that no person or
    entity other than Borrower may obtain Revolving Loans and Borrower may not
    assign its rights or obligations hereunder without the Required Banks'
    consent; and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that neither any holder of any



                                      45
<PAGE>   54

    Revolving Note or assignee of any Revolving Loan, whether in whole or in
    part, shall thereby become obligated thereafter to grant to Borrower any
    Revolving Loan.

    8.04  SURVIVAL OF PROVISIONS -- All representations and warranties made in
    or pursuant to this Agreement or any Related Writing shall survive the
    execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Term Notes and the Revolving
    Notes. The provisions of section 6 (inclusive) and subsection 7B.12 shall
    survive the payment of the Subject Indebtedness.

    8.05  IMMEDIATE U.S. FUNDS -- Any reference to money is a reference to
    lawful money of the United States of America which, if in the form of
    credits, shall be in immediately available funds.

    8.06  CAPTIONS -- The several captions to different sections and
    subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall
    be ignored in interpreting the provisions thereof.

    8.07  SUBSECTIONS -- Each reference to a section includes a reference to
    all subsections thereof (i.e., those having the same character or
    characters to the left of the decimal point) EXCEPT where the context
    clearly does not so permit.

    8.08  ILLEGALITY -- If any provision in this Agreement or any Related
    Writing shall for any reason be or become illegal, void or unenforceable,
    that illegality, voidness or unenforceability shall not affect any other
    provision.

    8.09  OHIO LAW -- This Agreement and the Related Writings and the
    respective rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be construed
    in accordance with and governed by internal Ohio law.

    8.10  INTEREST/FEE COMPUTATIONS -- All interest and all fees for any given
    period shall accrue on the first (1st) day thereof but not on the last day
    thereof and in each case shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year
    and the actual number of days elapsed. In no event shall interest accrue
    at a higher rate than the maximum rate, if any, permitted by law.

    8.11  NOTICE -- A notice to or request of Borrower shall be deemed to have
    been given or made under this Agreement or any Related Writing either upon
    the delivery of a writing to that effect (either in person or by
    transmission of a telecopy) to an officer of Borrower or five (5) days
    after a writing to that effect shall have been deposited in the United
    States mail and sent, with postage prepaid, by registered or certified
    mail, properly addressed to Borrower (Attention: chief financial officer).
    No other method of actually giving written notice to or making a written
    request of Borrower is hereby precluded Every notice required to be given
    to NCB-Agent or any Bank pursuant to this Agreement or any Related Writing
    shall be delivered (either in person or by transmission of a telecopy) to
    an Account Officer of that party. The Banks and NCB-Agent each agree to


                                      46
<PAGE>   55


    give prompt notice to the others whenever it gives any notice pursuant to
    section 5A or 5B or grants any waiver or consent as provided in subsection
    8.01. A notice or request by mail is properly addressed to a party when
    addressed to it at the address set forth opposite its signature below or
    at such other address as that party may furnish to each of the others in
    writing for that purpose. A telecopy is transmitted to a party when
    transmitted to the telecopy number set forth opposite that party's
    signature below (or at such other telecopy number as that party may
    furnish to the other in writing for that purpose).

    8.12  ACCOUNTING TERMS -- Any accounting term used in this Agreement shall
    have the meaning customarily ascribed thereto by GAAP subject, however, to
    such modification, if any, as may be provided by section 9 or elsewhere in
    this Agreement.

    8.13  ENTIRE AGREEMENT -- This Agreement and the Related Writings referred
    to in or otherwise contemplated by this Agreement set forth the entire
    agreement of the parties as to the transactions contemplated by this
    Agreement. This Agreement amends and restates a certain Credit Agreement
    dated July 6, 1995 entered into between and among Borrower, NCB-Agent,
    National City Bank and ABN Amro Bank N.V. This Agreement is not intended
    as a novation of the obligations of Borrower under the original Credit
    Agreement but rather is merely a restatement of the obligations thereunder
    after giving effect to certain amendments agreed upon between the parties.

    8.14  WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL -- THE PARTIES ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE THAT ANY
    CONTROVERSY THAT MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT AND THE RELATED WRITINGS
    WOULD INVOLVE DIFFICULT AND COMPLEX ISSUES AND THEREFORE AGREE THAT ANY
    LAW SUIT GROWING OUT OF OR INCIDENTAL, TO ANY SUCH CONTROVERSY WILL BE
    TRIED IN A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION BY A JUDGE SITTING WITHOUT A
    JURY.

    8.15  LATE CHARGE; APPLICATION OF PAYMENTS --If Borrower fails to pay any
    amount due hereunder, or any fee in connection herewith, in full within
    ten (10) days after its due date, Borrower will, in each case, incur and
    shall pay a late charge equal to the greater of twenty dollars ($20.00) or
    five percent (5%) of the unpaid amount. The payment of a late charge will
    not cure or constitute a waiver of any Event Of Default under this
    Agreement. Except as otherwise agreed in writing, payments will be applied
    first to accrued but unpaid interest and fees, in that order, on an
    invoice by invoice basis in the order of their respective due dates, until
    paid in full, then to late charges and then to principal.

    8.16  EXPENSES -- Borrower agrees to reimburse each Bank, on that Bank's
    demand from time to time, for any and all fees, costs and expenses
    (including, without limitation, the fees, interdepartmental charges and
    disbursements of legal counsel) incurred by that Bank in connection with
    (a) preparing any amendments or modifications to this Agreement or any
    Related Writing, (b) administering this Agreement and the Subject
    Indebtedness evidenced and contemplated hereby and by the other Related
    Writings, (c)


                                      47
<PAGE>   56

    any filing or recording fees, lien search fees, documentary stamp taxes or
    other like fees, taxes or charges, (d) any litigation, contest, dispute,
    suit, proceeding or action (whether instituted by Banks, Borrower or any
    other Person) in any way relating to the Subject Indebtedness, this
    Agreement or any of the other Related Writings or Borrower's affairs, but
    excluding any litigation between Borrower and Bank as adverse parties
    unless otherwise permitted by law in connection with any judgment awarded
    in favor of the prevailing party or (e) any inspection, verification or
    protection of any of Banks' collateral for the Subject Indebtedness.
    Borrower's reimbursement obligations hereunder shall constitute a part of
    Borrower's Debt.

    8.17  JURISDICTION AND VENUE -- As part of the consideration for new value
    received, Borrower hereby consents to the jurisdiction of any state or
    federal court located within the state of Ohio and consents that all such
    service of process be made by registered or certified mail directed to
    such Borrower at the address set forth opposite its name and officer's
    signature on the execution page hereof and service so made shall be deemed
    to be completed upon actual receipt thereof. Borrower waives any objection
    to jurisdiction and venue of any action instituted hereunder or in
    connection with any Related Writing and agrees not to assert any defense
    based on lack of jurisdiction or venue. Nothing contained herein shall
    affect the right of Banks or NCB-Agent to serve legal process in any other
    manner permitted by law or affect the right of Banks or NCB-Agent to
    bring any action or proceeding against Borrower or its property in the
    courts of any other jurisdiction. Borrower agrees that a final judgment in
    any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in
    other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner
    provided by law.

    8.18  AMBIGUITIES -- Borrower and Banks acknowledge that this Agreement and
    the Related Writings have been entered into in the context of free and
    understanding negotiations and are the product of individual bargaining,
    in a competitive market, between parties enjoying equal bargaining
    strength. In the event that a court is called upon to interpret any
    ambiguous provision in this Agreement or the Related Writings, Borrower
    and Banks agree that the ambiguity shall not be construed against Borrower
    or Banks simply because Borrower or Banks, or their respective agents or
    counsel, may have drafted such provision.

    8.19  OTHER WAIVERS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT -- Except as otherwise provided for
    in this Agreement or as required by applicable law, Borrower waives (i)
    presentment, demand and protest and notice of presentment, protest,
    default, nonpayment, maturity, release, compromise, settlement, extension
    or renewal of any or all commercial paper, accounts, contract rights,
    documents, instruments, chattel paper and guaranties at any time held by
    Banks or NCB-Agent on which Borrower may in any way be liable and (ii)
    notice prior to taking possession or control of any collateral which might
    be required by any court prior to allowing Banks to exercise any of Banks'
    or NCB-Agent's remedies.

    Borrower acknowledges that it has been advised by counsel of its choice
    with respect to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby,
    and Borrower acknowledges and


                                      48
<PAGE>   57

    agrees that (a) each of the waivers set forth herein, were knowingly and
    voluntarily made; (b) the rights of Banks and NCB-Agent hereunder shall be
    strictly construed in favor of Banks and NCB-Agent, as the case may be;
    and (c) no representative of Banks or NCB-Agent has waived or modified
    any of the provisions of this Agreement or any Related Writing as of the
    date hereof and no such waiver or modification following the date hereof
    shall be effective unless made in accordance with section 8.01 hereof.

    8.20  CONFIDENTIALITY -- Each Bank hereby (a) acknowledges that the
    Companies have many trade secrets and much financial, environmental and
    other data and information the confidentiality of which is important to
    their business and (b) agrees to keep confidential any such trade secret,
    data or other information designated by a Company as confidential, except
    that this section shall not preclude any Bank from furnishing any such
    secret, data or information (i) as may be required by order of any court
    of competent jurisdiction or requested by any governmental agency having
    any regulatory authority over such Bank or its securities or in response
    to legal process, (ii) to any other party to this Agreement, (iii) or to
    any actual or perspective transferee, participant or sub-participant (so
    long as such perspective transferee, participant or subparticipant is a
    financial institution) of all or part of that Bank's rights arising out of
    or in connection with the Related Writings and this Agreement or any
    thereof so long as such perspective transferee, participant or
    sub-participant to whom disclosure is made agrees to be bound by the
    provisions of this Section 8.20, (iv) to anyone if it shall have been
    already publicly disclosed (other than by that Bank in contravention of
    this Section 8.20), (v) to the extent reasonably required in connection
    with the exercise of any right or remedy under this Agreement or any
    Related Writing and (vi) to that Bank's legal counsel, auditors and
    accountants.

9.  DEFINITIONS -- As used in this Agreement and in the Related Writings,
EXCEPT where the context clearly requires otherwise,

    ACCEPTABLE MARKETABLE SECURITIES means securities that are direct
    obligations of the United States of America or any agency thereof, or
    certificates of deposit issued by any Bank or by any other financial
    institution organized under the laws of the United States or any state
    thereof which is approved in writing by NCB-Agent, in NCB-Agent's
    reasonable discretion, or any other money-market investment if it carries
    the highest quality of rating of any nationally recognized rating agency
    or any repurchase agreements issued by banks continuously secured by
    obligations issued or guaranteed and backed by the full faith and credit
    of the United States of America; provided, however, that no such security
    shall mature more than ninety (90) days after the date when made;

    ACCOUNT OFFICER means that officer who at the time in question is
    designated by the Bank in question as the officer having primary
    responsibility for giving consideration to Borrower's requests for credit
    or, in that officer's absence, that officer's immediate superior or any
    other officer who reports directly to that superior officer;




                                      49
<PAGE>   58

    ACCUMULATED FUNDING DEFICIENCY shall have the meaning ascribed thereto in
    section 302(a)(2) of ERISA;

    ACQUISITION is identified in subsection 2D.01;

    ACQUISITION AGREEMENT means that certain Stock Purchase Agreement between
    Seller and Borrower, dated December 20, 1996;

    ACQUISITION DOCUMENTS means any instrument, agreement, financial
    statement, notice, officer's certificate or other document or writing of
    any kind which is delivered to Borrower or Seller and which is relevant in
    any manner to the Acquisition Document;

    ACQUISITION PROJECTIONS means those certain projections titled "Project
    Raleigh--Merger and Acquisition Analysis, prepared by Borrower and
    Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette and delivered to Banks.

    ADJUSTED FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/EBITDA Ratio means a ratio, calculated in
    accordance with GAAP on a rolling four (4) quarter basis, of the sum of
    (a) the Maximum Outstanding Amount for such period plus (b) the
    consolidated amount of Funded Indebtedness of the Companies plus (c) the
    consolidated amount of all other indebtedness for borrowed money of the
    Companies (excluding in the case of clauses (b) and (c) the principal
    amount of the Revolving Loans outstanding at such time) to the
    consolidated EBITDA of the Companies for the same period;

    ADVANTAGE means any payment (whether made voluntarily or involuntarily, by
    offset of any deposit or other indebtedness or otherwise) received by a
    Bank in respect of the Subject Indebtedness if the payment results in that
    Bank's having less than its Ratable share of the Subject Indebtedness in
    question;

    AFFILIATE, when used with reference to any corporation (or other business
    entity) (the "subject") means, a corporation (or other business entity) or
    person that is in control of or under the control of or under common
    control (by another) with the subject; the term control meaning the direct
    or indirect power to direct the management or policies of the subject or
    the Affiliate or both (as the case may be), whether through the direct or
    indirect ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise;

    AGREEMENT means this Agreement and includes each amendment, supplement or
    restatement, if any, to this Agreement;

    BANK means one of the banking institutions that is a party to this
    Agreement;

    BANKING DAY means (a) in the case of a LIBOR Loan, a day on which banks in
    the London interbank market deal in United States dollar deposits and on
    which banking institutions are generally open for domestic and
    international business in Cleveland and in New York City and (b) in any
    other case, any day other than a Saturday or a Sunday


                                      50
<PAGE>   59



    or a public holiday or other day on which banking institutions in
    Cleveland, Ohio are generally closed and do not conduct banking business;

    BORROWER means OM GROUP, INC., a Delaware corporation;

    CERCLA means the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
    Liability Act (42 USC 9601 et seq.) as amended;

    COMPANY refers to Borrower or to a Subsidiary of Borrower, as the case may
    be and COMPANIES refers to Borrower and its Subsidiaries;

    COMPENSATION includes all considerations or remuneration (including
    without limitation, deferred compensation and disbursements to trusts),
    whatever the form or kind, for services rendered;

    CONVERSION/CONTINUATION REQUEST means a request made pursuant to
    subsection 2D.07;

    CREDIT REQUEST means a request made pursuant to subsection 2C.02;

    CURRENT ASSETS means the net book value of all such assets (after
    deducting applicable reserves, if any, and without consideration to any
    reappraisal or write-up of assets) as determined in accordance with GAAP;

    CURRENT GUARANTORS means, collectively, each of OMG Americas, Inc., OMG
    Apex, Inc. and Target;

    CURRENT LIABILITIES means all such liabilities as determined in accordance
    with GAAP and includes (without limitation) all accrued taxes and all
    principal of any Funded Indebtedness maturing within twelve months of the
    date of determination;

    DEBT means, collectively, all liabilities (including principal, interest,
    fees, charges, expenses and any other amounts) of the party or parties in
    question to the Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof, whether owing by one
    such party alone or with one or more others in a joint, several, or joint
    and several capacity, whether now owing or hereafter arising, whether
    owing absolutely or contingently, whether created by loan, overdraft,
    guaranty of payment or other contract or by quasi-contract or tort,
    statute or other operation of law or otherwise, whether incurred directly
    to the Banks and NCB-Agent of any thereof or acquired by purchase, pledge
    or otherwise, and whether participated to or from the Banks and NCB-Agent
    or any thereof in whole or in part; and in the case of Borrower includes,
    without limitation, the Subject Indebtedness;

    DEFAULT UNDER ERISA means (a) the occurrence or existence of a material
    Accumulated Funding Deficiency in respect of any of the Companies' Pension
    Plans, (b) any material failure by a Company to make a full and timely
    payment of premiums required by ERISA for insurance against any employer's
    liability in respect of any such plan, (c) any material


                                      51
<PAGE>   60

    breach of a fiduciary duty by a Company or any trustee in respect of any
    such plan or (d) the existence of any action for the forcible termination
    of any such plan;

    DEFAULT UNDER THIS AGREEMENT means an event, condition or thing which
    constitutes (or which with the lapse of any applicable grace period or the
    giving of notice or both would constitute) an Event Of Default referred to
    in section 5A and which has not been appropriately waived in writing in
    accordance with this Agreement or corrected to the Required Banks' full
    satisfaction;

    DISTRIBUTION means a payment made, liability incurred or other
    consideration (other than any stock dividend or stock split payable solely
    in capital stock of Borrower) given by a Company for the purchase,
    acquisition, redemption or retirement of any capital stock of the Company
    or as a dividend, return of capital or other Distribution in respect of
    the Company's capital stock and DISTRIBUTE means to make a Distribution;

    EBITDA means, at the time and for the period of reference thereto, the
    Companies' consolidated Net Income for that period plus the Companies'
    consolidated interest expense for that period plus the Companies'
    consolidated federal, state and local income taxes for that period plus
    the Companies' consolidated depreciation and amortization expense for that
    period;

    ENVIRONMENTAL LAW means CERCLA, the Hazardous Material Transportation Act
    (49 USC 1801 et seq.), the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (42 USC
    6901 et seq.), the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 USC 1251 et
    seq.), the Toxic Substances Control Act (15 USC 2601 et seq.) and the
    Occupational Safety and Health Act (29 USC 651 et seq.), as such laws have
    been or hereafter may be amended, and any and all analogous present or
    future federal, state or local statutes and the regulations promulgated
    pursuant thereto;

    ERISA means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (P.L.
    93-406) as amended from time to time and in the event of any amendment
    affecting any section thereof referred to in this Agreement, that
    reference shall be a reference to that section as amended, supplemented,
    replaced or otherwise modified;

    ERISA AFFILIATE of any Person means any other Person that for purposes of
    Title IV of ERISA is a member of such persons controlled group, or under
    common control with such Person, within the meaning of Section 414 of the
    Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time;

    ERISA REGULATOR means any governmental agency (such as the Department of
    Labor, The Internal Revenue Service and the Pension Benefit Guaranty
    Corporation) having any regulatory authority over any Pension Plan;

    EUROCURRENCY LIABILITIES has the meaning assigned to that term in
    Regulation D of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, as
    in effect from time to time;

                                      52
<PAGE>   61


    EUROCURRENCY RESERVE PERCENTAGE means, for any LIBOR Contract Period in
    respect of any Series of Subject Loans comprised by LIBOR Loans, as of
    any date of determination, the aggregate of the then stated maximum
    reserve percentages (including any marginal, special, emergency or
    supplemental reserves), expressed as a decimal, applicable to such LIBOR
    Contract Period (if more than one such percentage is applicable, the daily
    average of such percentages for those days in such LIBOR Contract Period
    during which any such percentage shall be so applicable) by the Board of
    Governors of the Federal Reserve System, any successor thereto, or any
    other banking authority, domestic or foreign, to which NCB-Agent may be
    subject in respect to eurocurrency funding (currently referred to as
    "Eurocurrency Liabilities" in Regulation D of the Federal Reserve Board)
    or in respect of any other category of liabilities including deposits by
    reference to which the interest rate on LIBOR Loans is determined or any
    category of extension of credit or other assets that include the Series of
    LIBOR Loans. For purposes hereof, such reserve requirements shall include,
    without limitation, those imposed under Regulation D of the Federal
    Reserve Board and the LIBOR Loans shall be deemed to constitute
    Eurocurrency Liabilities subject to such reserve requirements without
    benefit of credits for proration, exceptions or offsets which may be
    available from time to time to NCB-Agent under said Regulation D;

    EVENT OF DEFAULT is defined in section 5A;

    EXPIRATION DATE means the date referred to as such in subsection 2B.02,
    EXCEPT that in the event of any extension pursuant to subsection 2B.05,
    "Expiration Date" shall mean the latest date to which the Revolving
    Commitments shall have been so extended;

    FEDERAL FUNDS RATE means a fluctuating interest rate per annum, as in
    effect at the time in question, that is the rate determined by Bank to be
    the opening Federal Funds Rate per annum paid or payable by it on the day
    in question in its regional federal funds market for overnight borrowings
    from other banking institutions;

    FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS means indebtedness of the person or entity in question
    which matures or which (including each renewal or extension, if any, in
    whole or in part) remains unpaid for more than twelve (12) months after
    the date originally incurred and includes, without limitation (a) any
    indebtedness (regardless of its maturity) if it is renewable or refundable
    in whole or in part solely at the option of that person or entity (in the
    absence of default) to a date more than one (1) year after the date of
    determination, (b) any capitalized lease, (c) any Guaranty of Funded
    Indebtedness owing by another person or entity and (d) any long-term
    indebtedness secured by a security interest, mortgage or other lien
    encumbering any property owned or being acquired by the person or entity
    in question even if the full faith and credit of that person or entity is
    not pledged to the payment thereof; PROVIDED, that in the case of any
    indebtedness payable in installments or evidenced by serial notes or
    calling for sinking fund payments, those payments maturing within twelve
    (12) months after the date of determination shall be considered current
    indebtedness rather than Funded Indebtedness for the purposes of section
    3B but shall be considered Funded Indebtedness for all other purposes; 

                                      53
<PAGE>   62
    FUNDED INDEBTEDNESS/EBITDA Ratio means a ratio, calculated in accordance
    with GAAP on a rolling four (4) quarter basis, of the sum of (a) the
    consolidated amount of Funded Indebtedness of the Companies plus (b) the
    consolidated amount of all other indebtedness for borrowed money of the
    Companies to the consolidated EBITDA of the Companies for the same period;

    GAAP means generally accepted accounting principles applied in a manner
    consistent with those used in Borrower's Most Recent 4A.04 Financial
    Statements;

    GUARANTOR means one who pledges his credit or property in any manner for
    the payment or other performance of the indebtedness, contract or other
    obligation of another and includes (without limitation) any guarantor
    (whether of collection or payment), any obligor in respect of a standby
    letter of credit or surety bond issued for the obligor's account, any
    surety, any co-maker, any endorser, and anyone who agrees conditionally or
    otherwise to make any loan, purchase or investment in order thereby to
    enable another to prevent or correct a default of any kind; and GUARANTY
    means the obligation of a Guarantor;

    INITIAL REVOLVING NOTE means a note executed and delivered by Borrower in
    accordance with subsection 2C.01 hereof and being in the form and
    substance of EXHIBIT C with the blanks appropriately filled;

    INSIDER, as applied to Subordinated indebtedness, refers to Subordinated
    indebtedness which at the time in question is owing to any person who is a
    director or officer of a Company or who is the record and beneficial owner
    of ten percent (10%) or more of a Company's capital stock or who is a
    member of the immediate family of any such director, officers or
    stockholder;

    INSOLVENCY ACTION means either (a) a pleading of any kind filed by the
    person, corporation or entity (an "insolvent") in question to seek relief
    from the insolvent's creditors, or filed by the insolvent's creditors or
    any thereof to seek relief of any kind against that insolvent, in any
    court or other tribunal pursuant to any law (whether federal, state or
    other) relating generally to the rights of creditors or the relief of
    debtors or both, or (b) any other action of any kind commenced by an
    insolvent or the insolvent's creditors or any thereof for the purpose of
    marshaling the insolvent's assets and liabilities for the benefit of the
    insolvent's creditors; and "Insolvency Action" includes (without
    limitation) a petition commencing a case pursuant to any chapter of the
    federal bankruptcy code, any application for the appointment of a
    receiver, trustee, liquidator or custodian for the insolvent or any
    substantial part of the insolvent's assets, and any assignment by an
    insolvent for the general benefit of the insolvent's creditors;

    LIBOR CONTRACT PERIOD is defined in subsection 2D.04;

    LIBOR LOAN means a Subject Loan having a LIBOR Contract Period described
    in subsection 2D.04 and bearing interest in accordance with subsection
    2A.04 and 2C.05;


                                      54
<PAGE>   63


    LIBOR PRE-MARGIN RATE means, for any LIBOR Contract Period with respect to
    a Series of Subject Loans comprised of LIBOR Loans, the quotient (rounded
    upwards, if necessary, to the nearest one sixteenth of one percent (1/16th
    of 1%) of: (x) the per annum rate of interest, determined by NCB-Agent in
    accordance with its usual procedures (which determination shall be
    conclusive absent manifest error) as of approximately 11:00 a.m. (London
    time) two Banking Days prior to the beginning of such LIBOR Contract
    Period pertaining to such Series of LIBOR Loans, appearing on Page 3750 of
    the Telerate Service (or any successor or substitute page of such Service,
    or any successor to or substitute for such Service providing rate
    quotations comparable to those currently provided on such page of such
    Service, as determined by NCB-Agent from time to time for purposes of
    providing quotations of interest rates applicable to Dollar deposits in
    the London interbank market) as the rate in the London interbank market
    for Dollar deposits in immediately available funds with a maturity
    comparable to such LIBOR Contract Period DIVIDED BY (y) a number equal to
    1.00 MINUS the Eurocurrency Reserve Percentage. In the event that such
    rate quotation is not available for any reason, then the rate (for
    purposes of clause (x) hereof) shall be the rate, determined by NCB-Agent
    as of approximately 11:00 a.m. (London time) two Banking Days prior to the
    beginning of such LIBOR Contract Period pertaining to such Series of LIBOR
    Loans, to be the average (rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest
    one sixteenth of one percent (1/16th of 1%) of the per annum rates at
    which Dollar deposits in immediately available funds in an amount
    comparable to NCB's Ratable portion of such Series of LIBOR Loans and with
    a maturity comparable to such LIBOR Contract Period are offered to the
    prime banks by leading banks in the London interbank market. The LIBOR
    Pre-Margin Rate shall be adjusted automatically on and as of the effective
    date of any change in the Eurocurrency Reserve Percentage;

    MATERIAL CONTRACT means those contracts, instruments or other documents
    (other than this Agreement and the Related Writings) pertaining to a
    Company pursuant to which: (1) a Company has any direct or indirect
    obligation for borrowed money (including, without limitation, any
    contingent liability under any guaranty) or for the deferred portion of
    the purchase price of any asset or for other financing or the right to
    incur any such obligation; (2) a mortgage, security interest or other lien
    has been granted in or otherwise encumbers any property of a Company (or
    an agreement exists relating to any future grant or encumbrance of a
    mortgage, security interest or other lien on property of a Company); or
    (3) a Company or any of a Company's property is bound and which, if
    terminated, canceled or breached, would, in each case, have a material
    adverse effect on the financial condition, properties or business
    operations of the Companies taken as a whole, and the same shall
    specifically include, but not be limited to, each contract for the
    purchase of cobalt or nickel metals, cobalt or nickel concentrates or any
    derivative thereof by any Company and involving aggregate consideration
    payable by any Company of Three Million Dollars ($3,000,000) or more in
    any year and the Note Purchase Agreement;

    MATURITY means, when used with reference to a Subject Loan, the date
    (whether occurring by lapse of time, acceleration or otherwise) upon which
    that Subject Loan is due:



                                      55
<PAGE>   64



    MAXIMUM OUTSTANDING AMOUNT means, at the end of any fiscal quarter or
    other time period of reference, the dollar amount equal to the highest
    outstanding principal amount of Revolving Loans of Borrower at any time
    during such fiscal quarter or other time period of reference;

    MOST RECENT 4A.04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS means Borrower's most recent
    financial statements that are referred to in subsection 4A.04:

    NCB means National City Bank;

    NET INCOME means net income as determined in accordance with GAAP, after
    taxes and after extraordinary items, but without giving effect to any gain
    resulting from any reappraisal or write-up of any asset;

    NET OFFERING PROCEEDS means the proceeds of a public equity offering of
    the Capital Stock of Borrower, net any transaction costs incurred in
    connection therewith;

    NOTE PURCHASE AGREEMENT means that certain Note Purchase Agreement dated
    as of August 30, 1995, as amended by that certain Amendment to Note
    Purchase Agreement, dated as of January 21, 1997, entered into between and
    among the Borrower and the Noteholders;

    NOTEHOLDERS means the Great-West Life and Annuity Insurance Company, The
    Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, and Nationwide Life Insurance
    Company;

    PENSION PLAN means a defined benefit plan (as defined in section 3(35) of
    ERISA) of a Company and includes, without limitation, any such plan that
    is a multi-employer plan (as defined in section 3(37) of ERISA) applicable
    to any of the Companies' employees;

    PERSON means an individual, partnership, corporation (including a business
    trust), joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association, joint
    venture, limited liability company or partnership or other entity, or a
    government or any political subdivision or agency thereof;

    POST-REFINANCING AMOUNT means an amount equal to the sum of (a) the
    Revolving Commitments as of the Refinancing Date (not taking into account
    the Refinanced Amount) PLUS (b) the Refinanced Amount;

    PR LOAN means a Subject Loan bearing interest in accordance with
    subsection 2A.03 and 2C.04;

    PRIME RATE means the fluctuating rate of interest which is publicly
    announced from time to time by NCB at its principal place of business as
    being its "Prime Rate" or "base rate" thereafter in effect, with each
    change in the Prime Rate automatically, immediately and without notice
    changing the fluctuating interest rate thereafter applicable hereunder, it
    

                                      56
<PAGE>   65

    being agreed that the Prime Rate is not necessarily the lowest rate of
    interest then available from NCB on fluctuating rate loans;

    PRIOR CREDIT AGREEMENT means the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
    among the Borrower, the Banks and NCB-Agent dated October 18, 1996,
    pursuant to which the Banks agreed to make revolving loans to Borrower,
    under certain terms and conditions, in an amount not to exceed One Hundred
    Twenty Million Dollars ($120,000,000);

    PROFORMA COVENANT COMPLIANCE means compliance by Borrower and its
    Subsidiaries with the general financial standards contained in Section 3B
    of this Agreement as of the time of the event in question and for the
    following twelve (12) month period based upon the Projections delivered by
    Borrower in contemplation of such event pursuant to subsection 3A.0l(f) if
    the same are requested by a Bank and otherwise on Borrower's internally
    generated and used projections;

    PROJECTIONS shall have the meaning ascribed to that term in subsection
    3A.01(f);

    RATABLE and RATABLY mean in the proportion that the Subject Loan is
    divided among the Banks as set forth in section 2;

    REFINANCING means the payment in full of the aggregate outstanding
    principal balance of the Term Loans on the Refinancing Date pursuant to
    subsection 2A.02 with (a) Net Offering Proceeds, if any, and (b) proceeds
    resulting from the increase in the outstanding aggregate principal balance
    of the Revolving Loans in an amount equal to the Refinanced Amount;

    REFINANCING DATE means the earlier to occur of (a) the date upon which the
    Net Offering Proceeds are received by Borrower and simultaneously Ratably
    applied to pay down the aggregate outstanding principal balance of the
    Term Loans, (b) June 30, 1997, or (c) the occurrence of any Default Under
    This Agreement;

    REFINANCED AMOUNT means an amount equal to the sum of (a) One Hundred
    Twenty Million Dollars ($120,000,000) less (b) the Net Offering Proceeds
    in an amount of up to Sixty Million Dollars ($60,000,000) less (c) the
    aggregate amount of any optional prepayments of the Term Loans made prior
    to the Refinancing Date;

    REFINANCING REVOLVING NOTE means a note executed and delivered by Borrower
    in accordance with subsection 2C.0l hereof and being in the form and
    substance of Exhibit C with the blanks appropriately filled;

    REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT means a reimbursement agreement executed and
    delivered by Borrower in respect of an Subject LC;

    RELATED WRITING means any note, mortgage, security agreement, other lien
    instrument, financial statement, audit report, notice, legal opinion,
    Credit Request, officer's certificate

                                      57
<PAGE>   66


    or other writing of any kind which is delivered to Banks and NCB-Agent or
    any thereof and which is relevant in any manner to this Agreement or any
    other Related Writing and includes, without limitation, the Revolving
    Notes, the Term Notes and the other writings referred to in sections 3A
    and 4A;

    REPORTABLE EVENT has the meaning ascribed thereto by ERISA other than any
    event as to which the requirement of notification has been waived by
    regulation;

    REQUIRED BANKS means, at the time of reference, Banks owed or holding in
    the aggregate at least 80% of the sum of (a) the then aggregate unpaid
    principal amount of the Revolving Loans then outstanding, (b) the then
    aggregate Revolving Commitments to the extent in excess of the aggregate
    Revolving Loans then outstanding;

    REVOLVING COMMITMENT means the commitment of a Bank to extend credit to
    Borrower pursuant to sections 2B and 2C of this Agreement and upon the
    terms, subject to the conditions and in accordance with the other
    provisions of this Agreement;

    REVOLVING LOAN means a loan obtained by Borrower pursuant to sections 2B
    and 2C of this Agreement and evidenced by a Revolving Note:

    REVOLVING NOTE means an Initial Revolving Note or a Refinancing Revolving
    Note, as the case may be;

    REVOLVING SERIES means a Series of Revolving Loans;

    SELLER means SUSI Corporation, a Delaware corporation;

    SERIES means a group of Subject Loans of a single Type made by the Banks
    on a single date and as to which a single LIBOR Contract Period or other
    interest period is in effect (i.e., any group of Subject Loans made by the
    Banks of a different Type, or having a different LIBOR Contract Period or
    other interest period (regardless of whether such LIBOR Contract Period or
    other interest period commences on the same date as another LIBOR Contract
    Period or other interest period), or made on a different date shall be
    considered to comprise a different Series);

    STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY means, at any date, the excess of the net book value
    (after deducting all applicable valuation reserves and without
    consideration to any reappraisal or write-up of assets after December 31,
    1995) of all of the assets of the Companies as at such date (i.e.,
    including intangibles such as patents, costs of businesses over net assets
    acquired, goodwill and treasury shares) over the consolidated Total
    Liabilities of the Companies as at such date, as determined on a
    consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP;

    SUBJECT INDEBTEDNESS means, collectively, the principal of and interest on
    the Revolving Loans and all fees and other liabilities, if any, incurred
    by Borrower to Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof pursuant to this
    Agreement or any Related Writing;


                                      58
<PAGE>   67


    SUBJECT LC means a letter of credit issued by NCB pursuant to section 2E;

    SUBJECT LOAN means a loan obtained by Borrower pursuant to this Agreement,
    including, without limitation, a Term Loan or a Revolving Loan;

    SUBJECT NOTE means a Revolving Note or a Term Note;

    SUBORDINATED, as applied to any liability of Borrower, means a liability
    which at the time in question is subordinated (by written instrument in
    form and substance satisfactory to the Required Banks) first in favor of
    the prior payment in full of the Subject Indebtedness and then, subject to
    the prior payment in full of the Subject Indebtedness, in favor of the
    prior payment in full of all of Borrower's other Debt, if any, to the
    Banks and NCB-Agent or any thereof;

    SUBSIDIARY means a corporation or other business entity if shares
    constituting a majority of its outstanding capital stock (or other form of
    ownership) or constituting a majority of the voting power in any election
    of directors (or shares constituting both majorities) are (or upon the
    exercise of any outstanding warrants, options or other rights would be)
    owned directly or indirectly at the time in question by the corporation in
    question or another "Subsidiary" of that corporation or any combination of
    the foregoing;

    SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE means the schedule incorporated into this Agreement
    as EXHIBIT A;

    TARGET means SCM Metal Products Inc., a Delaware corporation;

    TERM LOAN means a loan obtained by Borrower pursuant to subsection 2A of
    this Agreement and evidenced by a Term Note;

    TERM NOTE means a note executed and delivered by Borrower and being in the
    form and substance of EXHIBIT B with the blanks appropriately filled;

    TERM SERIES means a Series of Term Loans;

    TYPE means, when used in respect of any Subject Loan, the LIBOR Rate or
    the Prime Rate in effect in respect of such Subject Loan.

    TOTAL LIABILITIES means the aggregate (without duplication) of all
    liabilities of the Companies in question and includes, but is not limited
    to, (a) any indebtedness which is secured by any mortgage, security
    interest or other lien on any of its property even if the full faith and
    credit of it is not pledged to the payment thereof, (b) any indebtedness
    for borrowed money or Funded Indebtedness if a Company is a Guarantor
    thereof and (c) any Subordinated indebtedness;

    the foregoing definitions shall be applicable to the respective plurals of
    the foregoing defined terms.


                                      59
<PAGE>   68



10.  EXECUTION -- This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts,
each counterpart to be executed by Borrower, by NCB-Agent and by one or more
or all of the Banks. Each such executed counterpart shall be deemed to be an
executed original for all purposes but all such counterparts taken together
shall constitute but one agreement, which agreement constitutes the entire
agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter
hereof.

Address:                          OM GROUP, INC.
  3800 Terminal Tower
  Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204       
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902          By: /s/ James M. Materna 
                                      -----------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: James M. Materna
                                                -------------------------------
                                  Title: Chief Financial Officer
                                         --------------------------------------

Address:                          NATIONAL CITY BANK
  1900 East Ninth Street
  Attn: Metro/Ohio Division
  Cleveland, Ohio 44114-3484      By: /s/ Timothy G. Healy
Telecopy: 216/575-9396                -----------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Timothy G. Healy
                                                -------------------------------
                                  Title: Vice President
                                         --------------------------------------

Address:                          NATIONAL CITY BANK, as Agent
  1900 East Ninth Street
  Attn: Metro/Ohio Division
  Cleveland, Ohio 44114-3484      By: /s/ Timothy G. Healy
Telecopy: 216/575-9396                -----------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Timothy G. Healy
                                                -------------------------------
                                  Title: Vice President
                                         --------------------------------------

Address:                          ABN AMRO BANK N.V.
  One PPG Place, Suite 2950
  Pittsburgh, PA 15222-5400
Telecopy: (412) 566-2266          By: /s/ Shirley K. Kersten
                                      -----------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Shirley K. Kersten
                                                -------------------------------
                                  Title: Assistant Vice President and Controller
                                         --------------------------------------

                                  And by: /s/ Monica A. Meis
                                          -------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Monica A. Meis
                                                -------------------------------
                                  Title: Financial Control Officer
                                         --------------------------------------


                                      60
<PAGE>   69



Address:                          MELLON BANK, N.A.
  200 Public Square, 29th Floor
  Cleveland,Ohio 44114
Telecopy: (216) 575-0513          By: /s/ Henry W. Centa
                                      --------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Henry W. Centa
                                                ----------------------------
                                  Title: Vice President
                                         -----------------------------------
                                  
Address:                          KEYBANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
  127 Public Square
  Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Telecopy: (216) 689-4981          By: /s/ Thomas J. Purcell
                                      --------------------------------------
                                  Printed Name: Thomas J. Purcell
                                                ----------------------------
                                  Title: Vice President
                                         -----------------------------------




                                      61
<PAGE>   70

                            SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE


There is no item which Borrower must disclose in this Supplemental Schedule in
order to be in full compliance with subsections 3D.01, 3D.02, 3D.03 and 3D.04,
nor is there any addition or exception to the representations and warranties
in section 4B.



                                  EXHIBIT A


<PAGE>   71

         
                                   TERM NOTE
                                   ---------

$___________                    Cleveland, Ohio,              January ___, 1997


FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned, OM GROUP, INC. ("Borrower"), a Delaware
corporation, promises to pay to the order of_________________________ at the
main office of National City Bank ("NCB") in Cleveland, Ohio, the principal
sum of

                             ____________ DOLLARS


(or if less, the aggregate unpaid principal balance from time to time shown on
the reverse side hereof or entered in a loan account on payee's books and
records, or both), together with interest computed thereon in accordance with
the Credit Agreement referred to below, which principal and interest is
payable in accordance with the provisions in the Credit Agreement.

This note is issued pursuant to a certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") made as of January ___, 1997 between and
among the payee, Borrower and NCB (for itself and as agent of the banks
therein). The Credit Agreement establishes "Term Series" (one by each bank)
aggregating up to One Hundred Twenty Million Dollars ($120,000,000) pursuant
to which Borrower may obtain Term Loans from Banks upon terms and conditions
specified therein. The Credit Agreement contains definitions applicable to
this note, provisions governing the making of loans, the acceleration of the
maturity thereof, rights of prepayment and other provisions applicable to this
note. Each endorsement, if any, on the reverse side of this note (or any
allonge thereto) shall be prima facie evidence of the data so endorsed.


Address:                              OM GROUP, INC. 
  3800 Terminal Tower 
  Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204          By:____________________________________ 
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902              Printed Name:__________________________ 
                                      Title: ________________________________




                                  EXHIBIT B


<PAGE>   72




                                REVOLVING NOTE
                                --------------

$___________                    Cleveland, Ohio,              January ___, 1997


FOR VALUE RECEIVED, the undersigned, OM GROUP, INC. ("Borrower"), a Delaware
corporation, promises to pay to the order of_________________________ at the
main office of National City Bank ("NCB") in Cleveland, Ohio, the principal
sum of

                        _____________________ DOLLARS

(or if less, the aggregate unpaid principal balance from time to time shown on
the reverse side hereof or entered in a loan account on payee's books and
records, or both), together with interest computed thereon in accordance with
the Credit Agreement referred to below, which principal and interest is
payable in accordance with the provisions in the Credit Agreement.

This note is issued pursuant to a certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") made as of January ___, 1997 between and
among the payee, Borrower and NCB (for itself and as agent of the banks
therein). The Credit Agreement establishes "Revolving Commitments" (one by
each Bank) aggregating up to Two Hundred Forty Million Dollars ($240,000,000)
pursuant to which Borrower may obtain Revolving Loans from Banks upon terms
and conditions specified therein. The Credit Agreement contains definitions
applicable to this note, provisions governing the making of loans, the
acceleration of the maturity thereof, rights of prepayment, activation and
inactivation of portions of the Revolving Commitments and other provisions
applicable to this note. Each endorsement, if any, on the reverse side of this
note (or any allonge thereto) shall be prima facie evidence of the data so
endorsed. 


Address:                                 OM GROUP, INC. 
  3800 Terminal Tower 
  Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204             By: ________________________________ 
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902                 Printed Name: ______________________ 
                                         Title: ______________________________


                                  EXHIBIT C
<PAGE>   73


                             EXTENSION AGREEMENT
                             -------------------


                                                           Cleveland, Ohio
                                                           _____________, 1997



National City Bank
1900 East Ninth Street
Attn:   Metro/Ohio Division
Cleveland, OH 44114-3484

ABN AMRO Bank N.V.
One PPG Place, Suite 2950
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

KeyBank National Association
127 Public Square
Cleveland, Ohio 44114

Mellon Bank, N.A.
200 Public Square, 29th Floor
Cleveland, OH 44114

Subject:      Extension of Revolving Commitments under Second Amended and 
              Restated Credit Agreement dated January ___, 1997

Greetings:

Reference is made to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement by and
among you, the undersigned ("Borrower") and National City Bank as your agent
which provided for, among other things, Revolving Commitments aggregating up
to $240,000,000 and available to Borrower, upon certain terms and conditions,
on a revolving basis until January 31, 2002, (the "Expiration Date" now in
effect) subject, however, to earlier reduction or termination as well as
specific conditions regarding activation and inactivation or portions of the
Revolving Commitment, in each case pursuant to the Credit Agreement.

Borrower hereby requests that the Credit Agreement be amended by deleting the
date "_____________________" from subsection 2B.02 (captioned "Expiration")
and by substituting for that deleted date the date "_______________________."

In all other respects the Credit Agreement shall remain in full effect.


<PAGE>   74


This letter has been executed and delivered to each of you in triplicate. If
you assent to the extension, kindly send or deliver two signed copies of your
assent to National City Bank as you agent who will, if the extension becomes
effective, forward one such copy to Borrower and inform you of the extension.

Address:                             OM GROUP, INC.
 3800 Terminal Tower
 Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204          By: _____________________________________
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902             Printed Name: ___________________________
                                     Title: __________________________________


The undersigned hereby assent to the foregoing.


NATIONAL CITY BANK                   ABN AMRO BANK, N.V.
By: _______________________________  By: _____________________________________
Printed Name: _____________________  Printed Name: ___________________________
Title: ____________________________  Title: __________________________________


KEYBANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION         MELLON BANK, N.A.

By: _______________________________  By: _____________________________________
Printed Name: _____________________  Printed Name: ___________________________
Title: ____________________________  Title: __________________________________

                                  EXHIBIT D
<PAGE>   75



                                CREDIT REQUEST


                                                            Cleveland, Ohio
                                                            ____________, 1997

TO:  National City Bank, as Agent


SUBJECT: Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated January ___, 1997
         between and among OM Group, Inc., National City Bank, ABN AMRO Bank
         N.V., KeyBank National Association, Mellon Bank, N.A. and National City
         Bank as Agent

Gentlemen:

Each term in this Credit Request shall be defined in accordance with the
subject Credit Agreement. Pursuant to subsection 2C.02 of the Credit
Agreement, we request

       ( ) the Banks to grant us a Series of PR Loans in the aggregate
       principal sum of $_______ to be made available to us on the __th day
       of__________, _______.

       ( ) the Banks to grant us a Series of LIBOR Loans in the aggregate
       principal sum of $__________ to be made available to us on the ___th
       day of ___________, ____ and to have an interest period ending ______
       months thereafter,

and disburse the proceeds as follows:_________________________________________
___________________________________________________.


The proceeds will be used for the benefit of__________________ [insert name of
company] for the purpose of __________________.


Address:                        OM GROUP, INC.
 3800 Terminal Tower
 Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204     By: ________________________________________
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902        Printed Name: ______________________________
                                Title: _____________________________________


                                  EXHIBIT E

<PAGE>   76


        

                        CONTINUATION/CONVERSION REQUEST
                        -------------------------------


TO:        National City Bank, as Agent

Subject:   Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated January ___, 1997
           between and among OM Group, Inc., National City Bank, ABN SMRO Bank
           N.V., KeyBank National Association, Mellon Bank, N.A. and National
           City Bank as Agent

Gentlemen:

Each term in this Continuation/Conversion Request shall be defined in
accordance with the subject Credit Agreement. Pursuant to subsection 2D.07 of
the Credit Agreement, we request

( ) to convert Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans in the principal amount of
_____________ to a Term Series comprised of PR Loans.

( ) to convert Term Series comprised of PR Loans in the principal amount
of _____________ to a Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans.

( ) to continue Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans in the principal amount of
____________ as another Term Series comprised of LIBOR Loans.

This Continuation/Conversion Request is executed and delivered to NCB-Agent as
of this _____th day of _____________,______.

Address:                          OM GROUP, INC.
 3800 Terminal Tower
 Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2204       By: ______________________________________
Telecopy: (216) 781-0902          Printed Name: ____________________________
                                  Title: ___________________________________



                                  EXHIBIT F
<PAGE>   77






                             LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES
                             --------------------

Legal Name             Address of Chief        Jurisdiction         Equity
- ----------             ----------------        ------------         ------
of Subsidiary          Executive Office     Where Incorporated     Ownership
- -------------          ----------------     ------------------     ---------

D&O Incorporated        5-7 Ginza 5-chome           Japan              50%
                        Chuo-ku
                        Tokyo, Japan

OMO KoKKola             P0 Box 26                   Finland           100%
Chemicals, Oy           SF - 67101
                        Kokkola, Finland

OMG Americas, Inc.      2301 Scranton Rd.           USA-Ohio          100%
                        Cleveland, Ohio 44113

OMG Europe GmbH         Morsenbroicher Weg 200      Germany           100%
                        D-40470 Dusseldorf
                        Deutschland

OMG Asia Pacific        Suite D, 8F                 Taiwan            100%
Co., Ltd.               170 Tun Hwa N. Road
                        Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.

Vasset, S.A.            59 Chemin de Moisselles     France            100%
                        95460 Ezanville
                        France

J & 0, Inc.             (Chusuk Hoesa J & 0)        Korea              50%
                        #2-3, Jook Gok Ri Korea
                        Jin Young Eub
                        Kim Hae City
                        Kyung Nam, Korea

                                  EXHIBIT G
<PAGE>   78


OMG Apex, Inc.          P.O. Box 2407              Delaware          100%
                        St. George, UT 84771

SCM Metal Products Inc. 2601 Weck Drive            Delaware          100%
                        P.O. Box 12166
                        Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2166

SCM Metal Products      36, Robinson Rd. 18-01     Singapore          70%
Singapore Pte. Ltd      City House
                        Singapore 068877


                                  EXHIBIT G

<PAGE>   1
                                                                  Exhibit 10.42


                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
                              --------------------


        This Employment Agreement (the "Agreement") is made as of December 18,
1995 by and between OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Employer"), and
Terry L. Guckes of Cleveland, Ohio ("Executive").

        WHEREAS, Employer and Executive desire to enter into this Agreement to
provide for Executive's continued employment with Employer.

        NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained
herein and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereto agree as follows:

        1. EMPLOYMENT. Employer agrees to employ Executive and Executive accepts
such continued employment upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth
in this Agreement.

           (A) SERVICES. For the term set forth in Section 1(b), Executive shall
serve as Vice President Planning & Development(1) and shall render such services
of an executive and administrative character as Employer specifies. For as long
as Executive is so employed, he shall devote his full productive time, energy
and ability to his duties, except for incidental attention to the management of
his personal investments. Executive may serve on the board of directors of other
companies or organizations so long as such participation does not conflict with
the interests or business of Employer or its subsidiaries or materially
interfere with the performance of his duties hereunder.

           (B) TERM. Unless earlier terminated pursuant to the provisions of
Section 7, the Initial Term of this Agreement shall commence on the date hereof
and shall expire on December 31, 1996. If the Initial Term has been renewed
pursuant to the provisions of Section 8 (the "Renewal Term"), the term of this
Agreement shall extend through the expiration of any Renewal Term then in
effect, unless earlier terminated pursuant to the provisions of Section 7. All
references herein to the "term of this Agreement" shall be deemed to refer to
the Initial Term as well as any Renewal Term then in effect if the Initial Term
has been extended pursuant to Section 8.

- ----------
(1)   Subject to Board approval at February 6, 1996 meeting.

<PAGE>   2

           (B) AGREEMENT AS TO SCOPE. If, at the time of enforcement of any
provision of Section 2(A), a court of competent jurisdiction holds that the
restrictions stated therein are unreasonable under circumstances then existing,
the parties agree that the maximum period, scope, or geographical area
reasonable under such circumstances shall be substituted for the period, scope,
or geographical area stated therein.

        3. NON-SOLICITATION. Executive agrees that, during the term of this
Agreement and for a period of (1) year thereafter, he will not knowingly, either
directly or indirectly, for himself or for any other person or entity, divert,
call on, solicit, or take away, or attempt to divert, call on, solicit, or take
away present or actively solicited prospective employees or, with respect to
competitive products or services, any present or actively solicited prospective
suppliers (including, without limitation, cobalt suppliers) or customers of
Employer, or any of its controlled subsidiaries.

        4. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. Executive acknowledges that during the
course of his employment under this Agreement he will make use of, acquire and
add to confidential information of a special and unique nature and value
relating to such matters as trade secrets, systems, procedures, manuals,
confidential reports and lists of suppliers, customers and other business
contacts of Employer and its subsidiaries, as well as the nature and type of
services rendered to such persons. Executive agrees that he will not disclose to
an unauthorized person or use for his own account any of such information
without the prior written consent of the Board of Directors of Employer, unless
and to the extent that the aforementioned matters become generally known to any
available for use by the public other than as a result of Executive's acts or
omissions to act.

        5. INVENTIONS AND PATENTS. Executive agrees that any inventions,
innovations or improvements in Employer's or its subsidiaries' method of
conducting their business (including new contributions, improvements, ideas and
discoveries, whether patentable or not) conceived or made by him during his
employment pursuant to this Agreement belong to Employer or its subsidiaries, as
the case may be. Executive shall perform any actions reasonably requested by the
Board of Directors of Employer to establish and confirm such ownership.
Executive shall not claim any right, title or interest of any kind with respect
to such inventions, innovations or improvements.


                                       3
<PAGE>   3


        6. REMEDY FOR BREACH. In the event of a breach by Executive of any of
the provisions of Sections 2, 3, 4, or 5, Employer or its subsidiaries, as the
case may be, may, in addition to other rights and remedies existing in their
favor, apply to any court of competent jurisdiction for specific performance
and/or injunctive or other relief in order to enforce or prevent any violations
of the provisions thereof.

        7. TERMINATION.

           (A) TERMINATION FOR CAUSE. Employer may terminate the employment of
Executive for cause at any time prior to the expiration of the term of this
Agreement. For purposes of this Agreement, "cause" shall mean Executive's (1)
conviction of a felony, (2) willful misconduct or gross negligence in the
conduct of his duties hereunder that continues after written notice thereof to
Executive, or (3) willful act of fraud or theft. In the event of the termination
for cause under this Section 7(A), Executive shall be entitled to receive (X)
his base compensation provided for in Section 1(C) hereof through the date of
termination of his employment, and (Y) all other amounts due him hereunder to
the extent already earned and not theretofore paid (including any bonus payable
under Section 1(D) for any fiscal year previously ended to the extent not 
theretofore paid).

           (B) TERMINATION WITHOUT CAUSE. Employer may in its sole discretion,
terminate the employment of Executive for any reason upon written notice to
Executive, which termination shall become effective immediately upon delivery of
such notice. In the event of termination without cause under this Section 7(B),
Executive shall be entitled to continue to receive all compensation and benefits
described in Sections 1(C), 1(D) and 1(E) until the later of (1) the expiration
of the Initial Term or Renewal Term then in effect, or (2) the one year
anniversary of the delivery of notice of termination of employment under this
Section 7(B).

           (C) TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. Executive may, in his sole discretion,
terminate his employment for any reason upon six (6) months' prior written
notice to Employer, which termination shall become effective upon the earlier of
(1) the expiration of the six-month period following the delivery of such
notice, or (2) any earlier date designated by Employer in a written notice to
executive. In the event of termination by Executive under this Section 7(C),
Executive shall be entitled to (X) to receive his base


                                       4
<PAGE>   4

compensation provided for in Section 1(C) through the effective date
of termination of his employment, (Y) to receive his base compensation provided
for in Section 1(C) for three (3) months following the effective date of
termination of his employment, and (Z) to receive all other amounts due him
hereunder to the extent already earned and not theretofore paid (including a
bonus payable under Section 1(D) for any fiscal year previously ended to the
extent not theretofore paid).

           (D) TERMINATION BY DEATH OR DISABILITY. In the event of Executive's
death or permanent disability while in the employ of Employer, which disability
in the opinion of a physician selected by Employer renders him incapable of
performing the services contemplated under this Agreement, in addition to other
provisions of this Agreement, the following provisions shall apply:

               (1) Employer shall pay to Executive or the estate of Executive
the base compensation which would otherwise be payable to the Executive
hereunder for a period of (1) year after such permanent disability or death
occurs.

               (2) An amount shall be determined equal to the incentive
compensation, if any, to which Executive would have been entitled if he had
lived or remained capable of performing the contemplated under this Agreement,
and a portion thereof based on the pro rata part of the year elapsed to the date
of his death or permanent disability shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive,
his estate or his personal representative, as the case may be.

               (3) Either of the benefits provided for in Section 7(D)(1) or
7(D)(2) may, at Executive's election, be paid to his designated beneficiary or
beneficiaries in lieu of his personal representative.

               (4) In addition to other benefits outlined herein, Executives
shall be entitled to all long-term disability pay and death benefit protection
provided through Employer and/or insurance programs in effect from time to time.

        8. RENEWAL. Unless either party gives written notice to the other patty
at least six (6) months prior to the expiration of the Initial Term or any
Renewal Term then in effect, this Agreement shall automatically be renewed for
successive one (1) year Renewal


                                       5
<PAGE>   5

Terms upon the same terms and conditions as were in effect as of the
commencement date of such Renewal Term.

        9. NO SET-OFF. Neither Employer nor its subsidiaries shall have any
right of set-off counterclaim, in respect of any claim, debt or obligation,
against the payments or benefits to be made or provided to Executive under this
Agreement.

        10. NOTICES. All notices, requests, demands and other communications
which are required or may be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and
shall be deemed to have been duly given if delivered personally or mailed, first
class mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, or by any other express
delivery technique calling for receipted delivery, as follows:

        (a)     If to Executive:

                       Terry L. Guckes, Ph.D.
                       145 Grey Fox Run
                       Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44022
                       Telephone: (216) 247-1522

        (b)     If to Employer or its subsidiaries:

                       OM Group, Inc.
                       3800 Terminal Tower
                       Cleveland, Ohio 44113
                       Attn: M. J. Scott, Secretary
                       Telephone: (216) 781-0083
                       Facsimile: (216) 781-0902

                       With a copy to:

                       Squire, Sanders & Dempsey
                       4900 Society Center
                       127 Public Square
                       Cleveland, Ohio 44114
                       Attn: Paul B. Campbell, Esquire
                       Telephone: (216) 479-8666
                       Facsimile: (216) 479-8780

or such other address or to the attention of such other person as the recipient
shall have specified by prior written notice to the sending party. Any notice
under this Agreement will be deemed to have been given when so delivered or
mailed.


                                       6
<PAGE>   6


        11. SEVERABILITY. Whenever possible, each provision of this Agreement
shall be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under
applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid,
illegal or unenforceable in any respect under any applicable law or rule in any
jurisdiction, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not effect
any other provision or any other provision or any other jurisdiction as if such
invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein.

        12. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement, those documents expressly referred
to herein and other documents of even date herewith embody the complete
agreement and understanding among the parties and supersede and preempt any
prior understandings, agreements or representations by or among the parties,
written or oral, which may have related to the subject matter hereof in any way.

        13. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed on separate
counterparts, each of which is deemed to be an original and all of which taken
together constitute one and the same agreement.

        14. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement is intended to bind and inure
to the benefit of and be enforceable by Executive, Employer, and their
respective successors and assigns; provided that Executive may not assign his
rights or delegate his obligations hereunder without the prior written consent
of Employer. Neither Employer nor its subsidiaries may assign their respective
rights hereunder with respect to the employment of Executive to any person or
entity other than to any of controlled subsidiaries of the Employer.

        15. CHOICE OF LAW. All questions concerning the construction, validity
and interpretation of the employment provisions of this Agreement will be
governed by the internal law, and not the law of conflicts, of the State of
Delaware.

        16. AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS. Any provision of this agreement may be
amended or waived only with the prior written consent of Executive and Employer.


                                       7
<PAGE>   7

        17. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. Any dispute arising out of this
Agreement (except a dispute relating to this Section 17 or Exhibit A attached
hereto) shall be submitted to the Alternative Dispute Resolution procedures
described in Exhibit A attached hereto.


        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Employer has caused this Agreement to be executed by
its duly authorized officer and Executive has executed this Agreement as of the
date first above written.


                                  "EMPLOYER"

                                  OM GROUP, INC.



                                  By:  /s/ Eugene Bak

                                  Its: President and Chief Operating Officer



                                  "EXECUTIVE"


                                  /s/ Terry L. Guckes















                                      8

<PAGE>   1

                                                                Exhibit 10.44


                            STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT

                                    BETWEEN

                                SUSI CORPORATION

                                      AND

                                 OM GROUP, INC.



                                     DATED

                               DECEMBER 20, 1996
<PAGE>   2
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----


<C>                                                                            <C>
1. Sale and Purchase of Shares ...........................................     1

2. Purchase Price .......................................................      1

   2.1   Purchase Price .................................................      1
   2.2   Adjustment of Purchase Price ...................................      2
   2.3   Payment of Purchase Price ......................................      4

3. Closing ..............................................................      6

   3.1   Date of Closing ..................................................    6
   3.2   Termination ....................................................      6

4. Representations and Warranties of Seller .............................      7

   4.1   Organization, Standing and Authority of Seller .................      7
   4.2   Authorization of Agreement .....................................      7
   4.3   Consents of Third Parties ......................................      7
   4.4   Capitalization of the Subsidiary and Equity Investments ........      8
   4.5   Ownership of Shares ............................................      9
   4.6   Financial Statements and Preliminary Balance Sheet .............      9
   4.7   Absence of Certain Liabilities and Changes .....................     10
   4.8   Inventory ......................................................     12
   4.9   Receivables ....................................................     12
   4.10  Taxes ..........................................................     13
   4.11  List of Material Contracts .....................................     14
   4.12  Labor Matters ..................................................     15
   4.13  Employee Benefit Plans and Benefit Arrangements ................     16
   4.14  Litigation; Compliance with Laws ...............................     20
   4.15  Real Property ...................................................    21
   4.16  Tangible Personal Property .....................................     22
   4.17  Proprietary Rights .............................................     22
   4.18  Environmental Matters ..........................................     24
   4.19  Permits and Licenses ...........................................     26
   4.20  Insurance ......................................................     26
   4.21  Suppliers and Customers ........................................     26
   4.22  Experience Matters .............................................     26
   4.23  Intercompany Accounts ..........................................     27
   4.24  Divestiture Agreements .........................................     27
   4.25  Disclosure .....................................................     27
</TABLE>

                                        i


<PAGE>   3
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----

<C>                                                                           <C>
5. Representations and Warranties of Buyer ...........................        27

   5.1     Buyer's organization .......................................       27
   5.2     Authorization of Agreement .................................       27
   5.3     Consents of Third Parties ..................................       28
   5.4     Litigation .................................................       28
   5.5     Financing ..................................................       29
   5.6     Investment .................................................       29

6. Further Agreements of the Parties ..................................       29

   6.1     Access to Information ......................................       29
   6.2     Conduct of the Business Pending the Closing ................       30
   6.3     Employee and Employee Benefit Matters ......................       31
   6.4     Other Action ...............................................       34
   6.5     Notices ....................................................       34
   6.6     HSR Act .....................................................      34
   6.7     Expenses ...................................................       35
   6.8     Publicity ..................................................       35
   6.9     Transfer Taxes .............................................       35
   6.10    Supplement to Disclosures ..................................       35
   6.11    Preservation of Records ....................................       35
   6.12    Certain Post-Closing Assistance by the Buyer ...............       36
   6.13    Treasury Matters............................................       36
   6.14    SCM Name ...................................................       37

7. Conditions of Closing ..............................................       38

   7.1     Conditions Precedent to Obligations of Buyer ...............       38
   7.2     Conditions Precedent to Obligations of Seller ..............       39

8. Documents to be Delivered at the Closing ...........................       40

   8.1     Documents to be Delivered by Seller ........................       40
   8.2     Documents to be Delivered by Buyer .........................       41

9. Indemnification and Related Matters ................................       42

   9.1     Indemnification.............................................       42
   9.2     Determination of Damages and Related Matters ...............       43
   9.3     Time and Manner of Certain Claims ..........................       44
   9.4     Defense of Claims by Third Parties .........................       45
</TABLE>

                                       ii
<PAGE>   4
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----

<S> <C>                                                                       <C>
    9.5      Environmental Matters ...................................        45

10. Miscellaneous ....................................................        49

   10.1      Finders .................................................        49
   10.2      Entire Agreement ........................................        50
   10.3      Jurisdiction and Governing Law ..........................        50
   10.4      Schedules; Tables of Contents and Headings ..............        50
   10.5      Notices .................................................        50
   10.6      Separability ............................................        51
   10.7      Waiver ..................................................        52
   10.8      Binding Effect; Assignment ..............................        52
   10.9      Best Knowledge ..........................................        52
   10.10     Counterparts ............................................        52
                                                                              52
</TABLE>

                                       iii

<PAGE>   5

STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT

























<PAGE>   6

                            STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT


        The parties to this Stock Purchase Agreement dated December 20, 1996
(this "Agreement") are SUSI Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Seller"), and
OM Group, Inc. a Delaware corporation ("Buyer").

        Seller owns all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock,
par value $.10 per share (the "Shares"), of SCM Metal Products Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("Subsidiary"). Subject to the terms and conditions stated herein,
Seller wishes to sell and Buyer wishes to purchase from Seller all of the shares
of the Subsidiary owned by Seller which constitute 100% of the issued and
outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Subsidiary. The term "Business"
shall mean the business and operations conducted by the Subsidiary.

        It is therefore agreed as follows:

        1.      Sale and Purchase of Shares.
                ---------------------------
        Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, at the closing
referred to in Section 3 (the "Closing"), Seller shall sell, assign, transfer,
convey and deliver to Buyer and Buyer shall purchase, acquire and accept from
Seller, the Shares.

        2.      Purchase Price.
                --------------

        2.1     Purchase Price.
                --------------
        (a) The purchase price for the Shares shall be $122,000,000 subject to
post-closing adjustment pursuant to Section 2.2. The Purchase Price shall be
payable as provided in Section 2.3.
<PAGE>   7

        2.2     Adjustment of Purchase Price.
                ----------------------------
        (a)     The Purchase Price shall be adjusted as follows:

                (i)     For purposes hereof "Final Net Worth" shall mean the 
assets of the Business less the liabilities of the Business, as reflected in the
Final Balance Sheet referred to in Section 2.2(b). "Target Net Worth" shall mean
the assets of the Business less the liabilities of the Business as reflected on
the Preliminary Balance Sheet referred to in Section 4.6.

               (ii) If the amount of the Final Net Worth determined in 
accordance with this Section is less than the Target Net Worth, the Purchase
Price shall be decreased by an amount equal to the difference between the Final
Net Worth and the Target Net Worth but in no event shall the decrease be greater
than $750,000.

               (iii) If the amount of the Final Net Worth is greater than the 
Target Net Worth, the Purchase Price shall be increased by an amount equal to
the difference between the Final Net Worth and the Target Net Worth but in no
event shall the increase be greater than $750,000.

        (b) The Final Net Worth shall be determined as of the close of business
on the day immediately preceding the day of the Closing (the "Determination
Time") on the basis of the balance sheet of the Business as of the Determination
Time (the "Final Balance Sheet"). The Final Balance Sheet shall be prepared by
Seller in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles as
supplemented by the principles set forth in SCHEDULE 2.2 (the "Accounting
Principles") and shall be reported upon by Price Waterhouse LLP ("PW"); PROVIDED
HOWEVER that should PW be unable or unwilling to provide the report described
above, Seller shall promptly engage another independent public accounting firm
of national reputation (the "Alternate Firm") to provide such report, or Buyer
and Seller may agree to the amount of Final Net Worth and the amount of any
required adjustment

                                       2

<PAGE>   8

to the Purchase Price as contemplated by this Section 2.2. PW or the Alternate
Firm, as the case may be, shall hereinafter be referred to as the ("Auditor").
Seller shall be responsible for the fees and expenses of the Auditor.

             (c) Seller shall engage the Auditor to examine the Final Balance 
Sheet and shall use its best efforts to deliver to Buyer the Final Balance Sheet
within sixty (60) days after the Closing (or; in the event the Auditor is the
Alternate Firm, within sixty (60) days after the Alternate Firm is engaged),
together with a report of the Auditor thereon (i) setting forth the amount of
Final Net Worth reflected in the Final Balance Sheet, (ii) stating that (y) the
examination has been made in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards, and (z) the Final Balance Sheet has been prepared in conformity with
the Accounting Principles, and (iii) setting forth the amount of any required
adjustment to the Purchase Price pursuant to this Section 2.2. Buyer and Seller
shall take such actions as are necessary to cause the Auditor's audit of the
Final Balance Sheet to be performed expeditiously. During the period from the
Closing Date (as defined in Section 3.1) until the date of delivery of the Final
Balance Sheet, Buyer shall give Seller, the Auditor and other appropriate
personnel such assistance and access to the assets and books and records of the
Subsidiary as Seller and the Auditor shall reasonably request during normal
business hours in order to enable them to prepare and examine, respectively, the
Final Balance Sheet. Ernst & Young LLP or such other independent accounting firm
engaged by Buyer at Buyer's sole expense (which shall not be the Unrelated
Accounting Firm referred to below) ("Buyer's Auditor") shall have the
opportunity to observe the taking of the inventory of the Seller in connection
with the preparation of the Final Balance Sheet, and to examine the work papers,
schedules and other documents prepared by Seller in connection with its
preparation of the Final Balance Sheet. Seller shall use its reasonable efforts

                                       3
<PAGE>   9



to cause the Auditor to permit Buyer and Buyer's Auditor to examine the
Auditor's work papers used in connection with its audit of the Final Balance
Sheet.

             (d) Within thirty (30) days following the delivery of the Final 
Balance Sheet and the related report of the Auditor, Buyer shall deliver to
Seller a notice of objection (an "Objection Notice") or a notice of acceptance
(an "Acceptance Notice") with respect to the Final Balance Sheet and related
auditor's report. Such Final Balance Sheet and related auditor's report shall be
final and binding on the parties if an Acceptance Notice is delivered to Seller
or if no Objection Notice is delivered to Seller within such thirty (30) day
period. Any Objection Notice shall specify in reasonable detail the items on the
Final Balance Sheet disputed and shall describe in reasonable detail the basis
for the objection and all information in the possession of the objecting party
which forms the basis thereof, as well as the amount in dispute. If an Objection
Notice is given, the parties shall consult with each other with respect to the
objection. If the parties are unable to reach agreement within fifteen (15) days
after an Objection Notice has been given, any unresolved disputed items shall be
promptly referred to Coopers and Lybrand (the "Unrelated Accounting Firm"). The
Unrelated Accounting Firm shall be directed to render a written report on the
unresolved disputed issues with respect to the Final Balance Sheet as promptly
as practicable and to resolve only those issues of dispute set forth in the
Objection Notice. The resolution of the dispute by the Unrelated Accounting Firm
shall be final and binding on the parties. The fees and expenses of the
Unrelated Accounting Firm shall be borne equally by Seller and Buyer.

        2.3     Payment of Purchase Price.
                -------------------------
                (a) At the Closing Buyer shall pay to Seller an amount equal to
the Purchase Price by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an
account designated by Seller.
                                       4

<PAGE>   10

        (b) If Buyer delivers to Seller the Acceptance Notice referred to in
Section 2.2(d) or fails to deliver an Objection Notice within the thirty (30)
day period required by Section 2.2(d), then (i) in the event the Final Net Worth
is less than the Target Net Worth, Seller shall within two (2) business days
after the delivery of such Acceptance Notice or the expiration of such thirty
(30) day period, as the case may be, pay to Buyer, the amount, if any, by which
the Target Net Worth exceeds the Final Net Worth, or (ii) in the event the Final
Net Worth exceeds the Target Net Worth, Buyer shall within two (2) business days
after the delivery of such Acceptance Notice or the expiration of such thirty
(30) day period, as the case may be, pay to Seller the amount, if any, by which
the Final Net Worth is greater than the Target Net Worth. Alternatively, if
Buyer delivers to Seller the Objection Notice referred to in Section 2.2(c),
within two (2) business days after such delivery, (y) Seller shall pay to Buyer
the amount, if any, by which the undisputed portion of the Final Net Worth is
less than the Target Net Worth, or (z) Buyer shall pay to Seller the amount, if
any, by which the undisputed portion of the Final Net Worth is greater than the
Target Net Worth provided that in no event shall the amount be greater than
$750,000. Within two (2) days after the resolution of any dispute by the parties
or the Unrelated Accounting Firm relating to the Objection Notice, Seller shall
pay to Buyer, or Buyer shall pay to Seller, as the case may be, the amount of
any further adjustment required.

        (c)     Any payment pursuant to Section 2.3(b) shall be made by 
certified or bank cashier's check, or, at the recipient's option, by wire
transfer of immediately available funds and shall be accompanied by payment of
an amount determined by computing simple interest on the amount of that payment
at the rate of interest announced publicly by Bank of America in San Francisco
from time to time as its "reference rate" (on the basis of a 365-day year) from
the Closing Date to the date of payment.

                                       5

<PAGE>   11

        3.      Closing.
                -------

        3.1 DATE OF CLOSING. The Closing shall take place at the offices of
Seller's Counsel (or at such other place as the parties may agree in writing)
five (5) business days after the date when each of the conditions specified in
Article 7 has been fulfilled (or waived by the party entitled to waive that
condition). The date on which the Closing is held is referred to in this
Agreement as the "Closing Date". At the Closing, the parties shall execute and
deliver the documents referred to in Section 8.

        3.2 TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior to 
the Closing:

        (a)     by mutual written agreement executed by Seller and Buyer;

        (b)     by Buyer, if any of the conditions specified in Section 7.1 
shall not have been satisfied or waived in writing by Buyer on or before
February 28, 1997; or

        (c)     by Seller, if any of the conditions specified in Section 7.2 
shall not have been satisfied or waived in writing by Seller on or before
February 28, 1997.

        (d)     This Agreement may in any event be terminated by Seller or Buyer
if the Closing shall not have occurred by February 28, 1997.

        Upon such termination neither of the parties shall have any liability or
further obligation arising out of this Agreement except for any liability
resulting from its breach of this Agreement prior to termination. Buyer's
obligations under Section 6.1 shall survive the termination of this Agreement.


                                       6
<PAGE>   12

        4.  REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SELLER. Seller represents and 
warrants to Buyer that:

        4.1 ORGANIZATION, STANDING AND AUTHORITY OF SELLER. Seller and the
Subsidiary are corporations duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of the state of their incorporation, and have full
corporate power and authority to enter into and perform this Agreement. The
Subsidiary is qualified to do business and is in good standing in each
jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or the properties owned or
leased by it requires qualification, except where the failure to be so qualified
or in good standing would not have a material adverse effect upon the
businesses, operations, assets or financial condition of the Business ("Material
Adverse Effect"). Each state in which the Subsidiary is qualified to do business
is set forth on SCHEDULE 4.1. SCHEDULE 4.1 also sets forth each jurisdiction in
which assets of the Subsidiary are located and each jurisdiction in which the
Subsidiary has employees.

        4.2 AUTHORIZATION OF AGREEMENT. The execution, delivery and performance
of this Agreement by Seller has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate
action of Seller and this Agreement constitutes the valid and binding obligation
of Seller enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except to the
extent enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization,
moratorium or other similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights
in general and subject to general principles of equity (regardless of whether
such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).

        4.3 CONSENTS OF THIRD PARTIES. Subject to receipt of the consents and
approvals referred to in SCHEDULE 4.3, the execution, delivery and performance
of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
by Seller will not (i) violate or conflict with the certificate of incorporation
or by-laws of Seller or the Subsidiary, (ii) conflict with, or result in


                                       7
<PAGE>   13


the breach of, or termination of, or constitute a default under (whether with
notice or lapse of time or both), or accelerate or permit the acceleration of
the performance required by, any indenture, mortgage, lien, lease, agreement,
commitment or other instrument, or any order, judgment or decree, to which the
Subsidiary is a party or by which Seller or the Subsidiary or any of their
properties are bound, (iii) constitute a violation of any law, regulation,
order, writ, judgment, injunction or decree applicable to Seller or the
Subsidiary, or (iv) result in the creation of any lien, charge or encumbrance
upon the capital stock, properties or assets of the Subsidiary, other than
violations, conflicts, breaches, terminations, accelerations and defaults
specified in the foregoing clauses (ii) through (iv) which could not reasonably
be expected to have a material adverse effect on Seller's ability to perform its
obligations under this Agreement. No consent, approval or authorization of any
governmental authority is required on the part of Seller or the Subsidiary in
connection with the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement,
except for:

        (a) filings with the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of
Justice, pursuant to the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvement Act of 1976
(the "HSR Act") with respect to the sale of the Shares to Buyer, and;

        (b) filings with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, the Internal
Revenue Service, the Department of Labor and any other similar governmental
entity with respect to the transfer of assets and liabilities of Employee
Benefit Plans (defined below) pursuant to this Agreement.

        4.4 CAPITALIZATION OF THE SUBSIDIARY AND EQUITY INVESTMENTS. The
capitalization of the Subsidiary is set forth on SCHEDULE 4.4. All of the
outstanding shares of capital stock of the Subsidiary were duly authorized for
issuance and are validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and none of such
shares are held in treasury. Except for this Agreement, there are no outstanding
options

                                        8
<PAGE>   14


or rights of any kind to acquire any shares of any class of securities or any
securities convertible into any shares of any class of securities of the
Subsidiary, nor are there any obligations to issue any such options, rights or
securities. There are no restrictions of any kind on the transfer of the shares,
except as may be imposed by applicable federal and state securities laws. Except
as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.4 the Subsidiary does not own any capital stock or
other interest in any other corporation or business entity, nor is the
Subsidiary subject to any obligations or requirements to make any investment in
any entity.

        4.5 OWNERSHIP OF SHARES. Seller is, and at the Closing will be, the
record and beneficial owner of the Shares, free and clear of any claim, lien,
security interest or other encumbrance ("Lien"), and the Shares will not be
subject to any agreement or understanding with respect to voting or transfer
thereof. At the Closing, Seller will transfer and deliver to Buyer valid title
to all the Shares, free and clear of any Lien.

        4.6 Financial Statements and Preliminary Balance Sheet.
            --------------------------------------------------

             (a)     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Seller has delivered to Buyer the 
following internally reported (for consolidation into the returns of Seller's
Parent) financial information for the Subsidiary:

        (i)     balance sheets as of the last day of the Subsidiary's fiscal 
years ended as of September 28, 1995 and September 28, 1996, and

        (ii) the related statements of operations for each of the three years in
the period ended as of September 28, 1996 (collectively, the "Financial
Statements"). Such Financial Statements are true and correct in all material
respects, are in accordance with the books and records of the Subsidiary and
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position and results of
operations


                                       9

<PAGE>   15

of the Subsidiary as of such dates and for such periods in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis, except
as indicated on SCHEDULE 4.6(a).

        (b) PRELIMINARY BALANCE SHEET. The unaudited balance sheet of the
Business, dated as of September 28, 1996 (the "Preliminary Balance Sheet") was
prepared from the hooks and records of Subsidiary in accordance with GAAP on a
basis consistent with past practice and adjusted for those items set forth on
Schedule 2.2.

        4.7 ABSENCE OF CERTAIN LIABILITIES AND CHANGES. Except to the extent
reflected or reserved for in the Preliminary Balance Sheet, to the best of
Seller's knowledge, there are no liabilities or obligations, secured or
unsecured, whether accrued, absolute, contingent or otherwise and whether known
or unknown, material to the Business that would normally be shown on a balance
sheet or related footnotes, if any, prepared in accordance with the Accounting
Principles except (i) liabilities or obligations incurred in the ordinary course
of business since the date of the Preliminary Balance Sheet, and (ii)
liabilities and obligations disclosed in the Schedules hereto and liabilities
and obligations not required to be so disclosed because of their failure to meet
the materiality thresholds set forth therein. Since the date of the Preliminary
Balance Sheet, the Subsidiary has operated the Business in the ordinary course
and, except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.7 or contemplated by SCHEDULE 6 2 there
has not been:

        (a)     any change in the business, assets, financial condition or 
results of operations of the Business that has had or could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect;

        (b)     any material change in the accounting methods or principles of
the Subsidiary that would be required to be disclosed under the Accounting
Principles;



                                       10
<PAGE>   16

        (c) any grant of any severance or termination pay by the Subsidiary to
any executive officer or director of the Subsidiary or any increase in
compensation or benefits payable by the Subsidiary under existing employment
agreements or severance or termination pay policies to any of their employees
other than (x) in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
practices, including without limitation normal merit increases for salaried
employees, (y) increases or grants required by contracts disclosed herein or by
applicable law, or (z) increases, agreements and bonuses disclosed in SCHEDULE
4.13;

        (d) any employment, bonus or deferred compensation agreement entered
into between the Subsidiary and any of its directors, officers or other
employees, other than as disclosed in SCHEDULE 4.13;

        (e) any entering into, amendment or termination of any material
contract, agreement, lease, franchise, security, instrument, permit or license
between the Subsidiary and any party, except in the ordinary course of business;

        (f) any declaration or payment of a distribution of cash or any other
asset of the Subsidiary to the Seller (i) in the nature of a dividend, (ii) in
redemption or as the purchase price of any of its capital stock, or (iii) in
discharge or cancellation, whether in part or in whole, of any indebtedness
owing to Seller, except in the ordinary course of business;

        (g) any purchase commitments in excess of its normal business
requirements; or

        (h) any existing agreement or arrangement made by the Subsidiary to take
any action that would cause any representations or warranty in this Section 4.7
to be untrue or incorrect.


                                       11

<PAGE>   17

        4.8 INVENTORY. The Inventory is of a quality and quantity usable in the
ordinary course of business of the Subsidiary, except for obsolete items or
items below standard quality as to which a provision determined in a manner
consistent with the prior practice of the Business has been made on the books of
the Subsidiary in accordance with the Accounting Principles. The value of all
inventory items, including finished goods, work-in-process and raw materials,
has been recorded on the books of the Subsidiary at the lower of cost
(determined in accordance with the accounting inventory valuation methods of the
Subsidiary) or fair market value.

        4.9 RECEIVABLES. All accounts receivable of the Subsidiary which either
are reflected on the Preliminary Balance Sheet, or were created subsequent to
the date of the Preliminary Balance Sheet, have arisen in the ordinary course of
business. Allowances in accordance with the Accounting Principles have been
reflected in the Preliminary Balance Sheet with respect to the receivables shown
thereon, and, with respect to receivables created subsequent to the date of the
Preliminary Balance Sheet, allowances have been set up on the books of the
Subsidiary in accordance with the Accounting Principles.

        4.10 TAXES. Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.10 (i) the Subsidiary has
filed (or caused to be filed) in a timely manner (or, where permitted or
required, the consolidated, combined or unitary group of which the Subsidiary is
a member has flied (or caused to be filed) in a timely manner) all material
Federal, state, local and foreign returns required by applicable law to be filed
(each a "Return") with respect to all Federal, state, local and foreign taxes
and assessments (including all interest, penalties and additions imposed with
respect to such amounts) of the Subsidiary ("Taxes") and has paid (or the
consolidated, combined or unitary group of which the Subsidiary is a member has
paid on its behalf) all Taxes shown due on such Returns for which the Subsidiary
may be liable, except for Taxes that are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and set forth on

                                       12
<PAGE>   18

SCHEDULE 4.10; (ii) there is no outstanding agreement, waiver or consent
providing for an extension of the statutory period of limitations applicable to
the assessment of any Tax and no power of attorney granted by the Subsidiary
with respect to any tax matter is currently in force; (iii) there is no action,
suit, proceeding, investigation, audit or claim now pending against the
Subsidiary with respect to any Tax, nor is there any assessment asserted by any
Tax authority; (iv) the Subsidiary has not filed any agreement or consent under
Section 341(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code");
(v) no property of the Subsidiary is "tax-exempt use property" within the
meaning of Section 168(h) of the Code nor property that Buyer will be required
to treat as being owned by another person pursuant to Section 168(f)(8) of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended and in effect immediately prior to the
enactment of the Tax Reform Act of 1986; (vi) Subsidiary has made timely
payments of all Taxes required to be deducted and withheld from the wages paid
to employees; (vii) Subsidiary has not been a party to any Tax allocation or
sharing agreement; (viii) Subsidiary has not received a claim made by an
authority in jurisdiction where it does not file Tax Returns that it is or may
be subject to taxation by that jurisdiction; and (ix) Subsidiary has not
agreed to (nor is it required to make) any adjustment under Section 481(a) of 
the Code by reason of a change in accounting method or otherwise.

        4.11  LIST OF MATERIAL CONTRACTS. SCHEDULE 4.11 includes lists, as of 
the date of this Agreement, of: (a) all commitments and agreements for the
purchase or sale of any materials, supplies or services that involve an
expenditure by or payment to the Subsidiary of more than $50,000 for any one
contract or series of related contracts; (b) all personal property leases under
which the Subsidiary is either lessor or lessee that involve annual payments or
receipts of $50,000 or more; (c) all agreements, mortgages, indentures and other
instruments relating to indebtedness for borrowed money to which the Subsidiary
is a party or by which it or its properties are bound that require annual

                                       13
<PAGE>   19

payments by the Subsidiary of more than $50,000, (d) all government contracts
and all other agreements with customers that involve an annual payment to the
Subsidiary of more than $50,000 for any one contract or services of related
contracts, and (e) all non-competition agreements, license, sales
representation, distributorship or consulting agreements, and non-disclosure
agreements pertaining to the Subsidiary which are material to the Business. 
Seller has made available to Buyer complete and correct copies of all items
listed on SCHEDULE 4.11 that are in writing, and the descriptions contained in
SCHEDULE 4.11 of all items listed therein that are not in writing are complete
and correct. Except as disclosed in SCHEDULE 4.11, as of the date of this
Agreement, the Subsidiary is not in material default under the terms of any item
listed on SCHEDULE 4.11. Except as disclosed in SCHEDULE 4.11, between the date
of this Agreement and the Closing, the Subsidiary is not, or will not be, in
default under the terms of any item listed on SCHEDULE 4.11. which default will
have a Material Adverse Effect. To the best knowledge of Seller, as of the date
of this Agreement, no party is in default under any of the contracts,
arrangements, instruments or other agreements listed in SCHEDULE 4.11 and each
is valid and in full force and effect. No party has notified Seller or the
Subsidiary in writing of its intention to cease to perform any material services
required to be performed by it or withhold any material payment required to be
made by it thereunder.

        4.12    Labor Matters.
                -------------

               (a) During the two years ending on the date hereof, no petition 
has been filed or proceedings initiated by any employee or group of employees
seeking recognition of a bargaining representative for the Subsidiary. During
the two years ending on the date hereof, no strike or work stoppage of any kind
has been called against the Subsidiary. To the best of Seller's knowledge, there
is no organizational effort currently being made or threatened to organize
employees of the Subsidiary for the purpose of forming or joining any labor
union. There are no

                                       14
<PAGE>   20


controversies or disputes pending between the Subsidiary and any of its
employees other than controversies and disputes with individual employees
arising in the ordinary course of business which have not had and could not
reasonably be foreseen to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material
Adverse Effect. Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.12 there are no unfair labor
practice or other administrative or court proceedings pending, or to the best of
Seller's knowledge, threatened, between the Subsidiary and its employees.

        (b) No present or former employee of the Subsidiary has asserted any
claim of more than $50,000 against the Subsidiary (whether under federal or
state law) under any employment agreement, or otherwise, on account of or for
(i) overtime pay, other than overtime pay for the current payroll period, (ii)
wages or salary for any period other than the current payroll period, (iii)
vacation or time off (or pay in lieu thereof), other than that earned in respect
of the previous twelve months, or (iv) any violation of any statute, ordinance
or regulation relating to minimum wages or maximum hours of work.

        (c) No persons or parties (including but not limited to, governmental
agencies of any kind) have asserted any claim, or, to the best of Seller's
knowledge, have any basis for any action or proceeding against the Subsidiary
which claim or basis for any action or proceeding would require a payment in
excess of $50,000 arising out of any breach or violation by the Subsidiary of
any statute, ordinance or regulation relating to discrimination in employment or
employment practices or occupational safety and health standards (including
without limitation, The Occupational Safety and Health Act, The Fair Labor
Standards Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, or the Age
Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967) except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.12
or SCHEDULE 4.18(b).

                                       15

<PAGE>   21

        4.13    Employee Benefit Plans and Benefit Arrangements.
                -----------------------------------------------
        (a)     Definitions.
                -----------
        (i)   The term "Employees" shall mean all current and former
employees of the Subsidiary, including employees on approved leaves of absence
(whether family leave, workers' compensation leave, medical leave, or
otherwise). A list of such former employees of the Subsidiary who are covered
under any retiree life insurance or medical program will be provided by Seller
to Buyer by 5:00 p.m. on December 24, 1996.

        (ii)   The term "Employee Benefits Plans" shall mean all "employee
benefit plans" as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA, which are maintained or
contributed to by the Subsidiary or any predecessor for Employees or in which
the Subsidiary or any predecessor participates or participated and which are
listed and identified as such on SCHEDULE 4.13(b).

        (iii)  The term "Welfare Plans" shall mean all Employee Benefit Plans
which are employee welfare benefit plans as defined in Section 3(1) of ERISA and
which are listed on SCHEDULE 4.13(b).

        (iv) The term "Pension Plans" shall mean all Employee Benefit Plans
which are employee pension benefit plans as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA and
which are listed and identified as such on SCHEDULE 4.13(b).

        (v)   The term "Benefit Arrangements" shall mean all life and health
insurance, hospitalization, savings, bonus, deferred compensation, incentive
compensation, holiday, vacation, termination, severance pay, sick pay, sick
leave, disability, tuition refund, service award, company car, scholarship,
relocation, patent award, fringe benefit, contracts, collective bargaining
agreements, individual employment contract, consulting contract, termination
contract or severance contract and other policies or practices of the Subsidiary
providing employee or executive


                                       16

<PAGE>   22

compensation or benefits to Employees (other than Employee Benefit Plans) which
are listed on SCHEDULE 4.13(b).

        (vi) The term "Multiemployer Plan" shall mean a multiemployer pension
plan as defined in Section 3(37)(A) of ERISA.

        (vii) The term "ERISA Affiliate" shall mean an entity that would be
treated as a single employer with the Subsidiary under Section 414 of the Code.

        (b)     Employee Benefit Arrangements.
                -----------------------------

               (i) SCHEDULE 4.13(b) sets forth a complete and accurate list of 
all Employee Benefit Plans and all Benefit Arrangements. Seller has delivered or
made available to Buyer copies of each Employee Benefit Plan, all amendments
thereto, all related funding arrangements, all actuarial valuation reports for
the most recent three years, a copy of Forms 5500 with all schedules thereto for
the most recent three years, a copy of the most recent determination letter
issued by the Internal Revenue Service for each Pension Plan, and a copy of the
most recent summary plan description. Seller has delivered or made available to
Buyer copies of each Benefit Arrangement or description thereof Seller has
delivered or made available to Buyer all forms and notices being utilized in
conjunction with any Employee Benefit Plan with respect to any Employee,
including, but not limited to, any notices or informational material regarding
retiree medical and life insurance programs, joint and survivor annuity notices
and elections and spousal consent forms with respect to any Pension Plan, and
all notices and elections intended to comply with the requirements of Section
601 of ERISA.

        (ii)   Except as indicated on SCHEDULE 4.13(b), each Employee
Benefit Plan and related funding arrangements: (a) are in form and have been
administered in compliance with all applicable laws, including, without
limitation, ERISA and the Code; (b) each

                                       17
<PAGE>   23


Pension Plan intended to qualify under Section 401(a) of the Code has received a
favorable determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service with respect to
such qualification or has been submitted timely to the Internal Revenue Service
for such a favorable determination; (c) each trust maintained in conjunction
with a Pension Plan intended to qualify under Section 401(a) of the Code has
received a favorable determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service with
respect to the exemption thereof under Section 501(a) of the Code; (d) none of
the Pension Plans or related trusts, or any administrator or trustee thereof, or
party-in-interest or disqualified person thereto has engaged in a transaction
that could cause any of them to be liable for a civil penalty under Section 409
or 502(i) or any other section of ERISA or result in a tax under Section 4975 or
4976 or any other section of Chapter 43 of Subtitle D of the Code; (e) all
amounts required to be paid by the Subsidiary to or pursuant to each of the
Employee Benefit Plans on or before the Closing Date have been paid; (f) no
Pension Plan has incurred any "accumulated funding deficiency," as defined in
Section 412 of the Code; and (g) no "reportable event" within the meaning of
Title IV of ERISA has occurred with respect to any Pension Benefit Plan subject
thereto.

        (iii)  The Subsidiary does not currently contribute, and has not
contributed within the last five years, to any Multiemployer Plan and no event
has occurred that presents a risk of the occurrence of any withdrawal from any
Multiemployer Plan by the Subsidiary or an ERISA Affiliate of the Subsidiary
which could result in any liability of the Subsidiary to such Multiemployer
Plan. Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.13(b), no liability under Title IV of
ERISA has been incurred by the Subsidiary that has not been satisfied in full,
and no condition exists that presents a risk to the Subsidiary of incurring a
liability under such Title IV other than liability for premiums due the Pension
Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC"). Neither the Subsidiary or an ERISA
Affiliate of the Subsidiary, nor any respective directors, officers, employees,
or fiduciaries has

                                       18
<PAGE>   24

committed any breach of fiduciary responsibility imposed by ERISA or any other
applicable law that would subject the Subsidiary to liability under ERISA or any
other applicable law, contract, agreement, or commitment. The PBGC has not
instituted proceedings to terminate any Pension Plan in which the Subsidiary
participates, and no condition exists that presents a risk that such proceedings
will be instituted.

        (iv) Any Employee Benefit Plan designed to satisfy the requirements of
Section 125, Section 401(k), Section 409, Section 501(c)(9), Section 4975(e)(7),
and/or Section 4980B of the Code, satisfies such section.

        (v) No "leased employee," as that term is defined in Section 414(n) of
the Code, performs services for the Subsidiary.

        (vi)  Notice of any Employee Benefit Plan or Benefit Arrangement
required to be given to the Department of Labor under Section 2520.104.23 of
Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations has been given.

        (vii) Except as indicated on Section 4.13, there is no audit which is in
process by, or for which notification has been received from, the Internal
Revenue Service, the Department of Labor or the PBGC with respect to any
Employee Benefit Plan.

        4.14    Litigation; Compliance with Laws.
                --------------------------------

                (a)     There are no judicial or administrative actions, 
proceedings or investigations pending or, to the best of Seller's knowledge,
threatened, that question the validity of this Agreement or any action taken or
to be taken by Seller in connection with this Agreement. There is no litigation,
proceeding or governmental investigation pending or, to the best of Seller's
knowledge, threatened, or any order, injunction or decree outstanding, against
the Seller that, if

                                       19
<PAGE>   25

adversely determined, would individually or in the aggregate, adversely effect
the Seller's ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

        (b) To the best of Seller's knowledge the Subsidiary is not in violation
of any applicable law, regulation, ordinance or any other applicable requirement
of any governmental body or court, which violations in the aggregate would have
a Material Adverse Effect. As of the date of this Agreement, no written notice
has been received by the Subsidiary since January 1, 1990 alleging any such
violations, except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.14.

        (c) Except as disclosed in SCHEDULE 4.14, these are no judicial or
administrative actions or proceeding pending against the Subsidiary or, to the
best knowledge of Seller, threatened against the Subsidiary or the Business.

        4.15    Real Property.
                -------------

               (a) SCHEDULE 4.15(a) sets forth all of the real property used in 
the Business and owned in fee by the Subsidiary (the fee property being
hereinafter referred to as the "Owned Property"). The Owned Property is all of
the real property used in the Business as presently conducted, and is, to the
best of Seller's knowledge, adequate for the uses to which it is being put and
sufficient for the conduct of the Business as presently conducted. The Seller
has provided to Buyer copies of title insurance commitments from Lawyers Title
Insurance Corporation with respect to the Owned Property (the "Title
Commitments"). The matters set forth at Items 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 of the North
Carolina Title Commitment and at Items 6, 7, 8 and 10 of the Pennsylvania Title
Commitment do not materially and adversely affect the use of the Owned Property.
Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.15(a), the Subsidiary has, or as of the
Closing will have, good and marketable title to each parcel of Owned Property
free and clear of all Liens, other than (i) those reflected or reserved against
in the Preliminary Balance Sheet, (ii) those reflected in the title commitments
with

                                       20
<PAGE>   26

respect to the Owned Property that are listed on SCHEDULE 4.15(a), copies of
which have been previously provided to Buyer, (iii) imperfections of title,
easements, pledges, charges, restrictions and encumbrances, including without
limitation, survey matters, landlord's liens, mechanics' liens, repairmen's
liens and other similar liens, if any, that do not materially detract from the
value of the property subject thereto or materially interfere with the manner in
which it is currently being used in the Business or materially impair the
operations of the Business, and (iv) taxes and general and special assessments
not in default and payable without penalty or interest (liens of the type
referred to in clauses (i) through (iv) above being hereinafter referred to as
"Permitted Liens").

        (b) There are no real property leases in effect as of the date hereof
with respect to the Business under which the Subsidiary is a lessee, other than
leases with respect to public warehouses used by the Subsidiary.

        (c)     The Subsidiary has not received any notice of violation of any
ordinance, law or regulation of any government resulting from the current uses
of, or the buildings or improvements on, any of the parcels of real property
owned by the Subsidiary or used in the conduct of its business. No proceedings
are pending as of the date hereof or, to the best of Seller's knowledge,
threatened for condemnation of all or any part of such real property.

        4.16 TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY. All of the fixtures, machinery and
equipment reflected in the Preliminary Balance Sheet (the "Tangible Personal
Property") are in existence (except for dispositions made since the date of the
Preliminary Balance Sheet in the ordinary course of business and minor items not
substantial in character). The Subsidiary has delivered to the Buyer a Fixed
Asset Listing by Tag Id. as of November 30, 1996. Substantially all of the
Tangible Personal Property is located at the Owned Property. Except as set forth
on SCHEDULE 4.16, the Subsidiary has good title to, or holds by valid and
existing lease, all of the Tangible Personal Property, free and clear

                                       21
<PAGE>   27

of all Liens, other than Permitted Liens. The Tangible Personal Property is, to
the best of Seller's knowledge, adequate for the uses to which it is being put
and sufficient for the conduct of the Business as presently conducted.

        4.17    Proprietary Rights.
                ------------------

               (a) SCHEDULE 4.17(a) sets forth a list of all inventions which 
are the subject of issued letters patent or an application therefor and all
trade and service marks which have been registered or for which an application
for registration is pending, in each case which are owned and used or held for
use by the Subsidiary in the Business (each a "Proprietary Right"), specifying
as to each, as applicable; (i) the nature of such Proprietary Right; (ii) the
owner of such Proprietary Right; (iii) the jurisdictions by or in which such
Proprietary Right has been issued or registered or in which an application for
such issuance or registration has been filed, including the respective
registration or application numbers, if available; and (iv) material licenses,
sublicenses and other agreements to which the Subsidiary is a party and pursuant
to which any person is authorized to use such Proprietary Right. The Proprietary
Rights include all proprietary rights that are used in the Business as presently
conducted.

              (b) Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.17(b), the Subsidiary (i) is
not a defendant in any claim, suit, action or proceeding which involves a claim
of infringement of any Proprietary Rights, and (ii) does not have any knowledge
of any existing infringement by any other person of any Proprietary Right. To
the knowledge of Seller, (i) the Subsidiary has rights to use all Proprietary
Rights in the conduct of the Business and (ii) the Business as currently
conducted does not infringe on any proprietary right of any third party. Except
as disclosed on SCHEDULE 4.17(b), no Proprietary Right is subject to any
outstanding order, judgment, decree, stipulation or agreement restricting the
use thereof by the Subsidiary or restricting the licensing thereof by the
Subsidiary to

                                       22
<PAGE>   28


any person. Buyer acknowledges that from time to time the products of the
Subsidiary are sold and services of the Subsidiary are rendered to customers
whose standard terms and conditions of their purchase orders sometimes contain
agreements under which the Subsidiary may be required to defend, indemnify and
hold the customer harmless against any charge of patent, trademark or copyright
infringement and that the Uniform Commercial Code imposes a similar obligation
where the products were and are made to the specifications of the customer. With
the exception of the foregoing, and except as may be provided in items disclosed
on SCHEDULE 4.16 and SCHEDULE 4.17(b), the Subsidiary has not entered into any
special agreement to indemnify any other person against any charge of
infringement of any patent, trademark, service mark or copyright of the
Business.

        4.18    Environmental Matters.
                ---------------------
                (a)   For purposes of this Section 4.18, the following terms 
shall have the indicated meaning:

        "ENVIRONMENTAL LAW" means any federal, state, or local statute, law,
ordinance, rule, standard, or regulation and any order, consent decree, judicial
or administrative decision or directive to which Seller is a party or is
otherwise bound relating to pollution or protection of the health or
environment, including natural resources (provided that the term does not
include the Occupational Safety and Health Act or similar state laws governing
employee exposures);

        "HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE" means any substance, whether liquid, solid or
gas: (a) listed, identified or designated as hazardous or toxic under any
Environmental Law, (b) which, applying criteria specified in any Environmental
Law, is hazardous or toxic, or (c) which is regulated under any Environmental
Law, and includes without limitation asbestos and asbestos- containing material,
radioactive material and petroleum products;



                                       23
<PAGE>   29



        (b) Except as set forth in SCHEDULE 4.18(b), there are no pending, or to
Seller's knowledge, threatened claims, actions or proceedings against the
Subsidiary or Seller relating to:

              (i) an asserted liability of Seller or the Subsidiary or, with
respect to the Owned Property, any prior owner, occupier or user of the Owned
Property, under any Environmental Law or the terms and conditions of any permit,
license, authority, settlement or other obligation arising under any
Environmental Law;

              (ii) the handling, storage, use or disposal of Hazardous
Substances from, on or under or within Owned Property on or into the air, water,
surface water, ground water, land surface or subsurface strata;

              (iii) the actual or threatened discharge, release or emissions of
Hazardous Substances from, on or under or within the Owned Property on or into
the air, water, surface water, ground water, land surface or subsurface strata;
or

              (iv) actual or asserted claims for personal injuries or damages to
property related to or arising out of exposure to Hazardous Substances
discharged, released or emitted from or into, or transported from or to, the
Owned Property.

        (c) Except as set forth in SCHEDULE 4.18(c), to the best of Seller's
knowledge, the Subsidiary has timely filed all required reports, obtained all
required approvals and permits, and generated and maintained all required data,
documentation and records under all applicable Environmental Laws.

        Except as disclosed in SCHEDULE 4.18(c), to the best of Seller's
knowledge, there are no underground storage tanks present on the Owned Property
and, if there are


                                       24

<PAGE>   30

such tanks, all tanks comply with applicable law and all required permits in
respect thereof are in full force and effect.

        (d) Except as set forth in SCHEDULE 4.18(d), to the best of Seller's
knowledge, no Hazardous Substances have been, or have been threatened to be,
discharged, released or emitted on or into the air, water, surface water, ground
water, land surface or subsurface strata or transported to or from the Owned
Property except in accordance with Environmental Law (in particular, but without
limitation, in accordance with any permits issued pursuant thereto).

        4.19 PERMITS AND LICENSES. Set forth in SCHEDULE 4.19 is a list of all
permits, licenses, franchises or other authorizations held by the Subsidiary.
Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.19 the Subsidiary has all material permits,
licenses, franchises and other authorizations necessary for the conduct of the
Business as currently conducted, all such permits, licenses, franchises and
authorizations are valid and in full force and effect and the Business is in
compliance with the terms and conditions of such permits except to the extent
that any such non-compliance, individually or in the aggregate, could not
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

        4.20 INSURANCE.  SCHEDULE 4.20 lists all insurance policies pursuant to
which the Subsidiary is insured as of the date of this Agreement.

        4.21 SUPPLIERS AND CUSTOMERS. Except for suppliers or customers who, as
of the date of this Agreement, have re-established their relationships with the
Subsidiary, no supplier or customer which accounted for more than five percent
(5%) of the sales or purchases of the Subsidiary since October 1, 1995 has
terminated or, to the knowledge of the Subsidiary, threatened to terminate,
its relationship with the Subsidiary. To the knowledge of Seller as of the date
hereof, there will not be any adverse effect on the relationship of the
Subsidiary with any of its suppliers or customers solely due to U.S. Industries,
Inc. ("Parent") ceasing to beneficially own the capital stock of the Subsidiary.

                                       25

<PAGE>   31

        4.22 EXPERIENCE MATTERS. SCHEDULE 4.22 contains a reasonably detailed
description of the history of the experience of the Business during the two (2)
years ending on the date hereof with respect to (i) product liability claims and
product warranty claims exceeding $10,000, and (ii) all workers' compensation
claims. SCHEDULE 4.22 also contains a reasonably detailed description, as of the
date of this Agreement, of all product warranty, product liability and workers'
compensation claims currently pending.

        4.23 INTERCOMPANY ACCOUNTS. All intercompany accounts of the
Subsidiary will be discharged or canceled as of the Closing Date.

        4.24 DIVESTITURE AGREEMENTS. The Subsidiary has no obligations or
liabilities under any other divestiture agreement or in connection with the
demerger of Parent from Hanson PLC entered into by Parent or its subsidiaries.

        4.25 DISCLOSURE. Neither this Agreement (including the Exhibits hereto)
nor the Financial Statements nor any certificate or information furnished by
Seller or the Subsidiary under this Agreement contains or will contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omits or will omit to state a material
fact necessary in order to make the statements contained herein or therein not
misleading.

        5.   REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF BUYER. Buyer represents and 
warrants to Seller as follows:

        5.1  BUYER'S ORGANIZATION. Buyer is a corporation duly organized,
validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Delaware and has the
full corporate power and authority to enter into and to perform this Agreement.


                                       26
<PAGE>   32

        5.2 AUTHORIZATION OF AGREEMENT. The execution, delivery and performance
of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
by Buyer have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action of Buyer
and this Agreement constitutes the valid and binding obligation of Buyer
enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except to the extent
enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other similar laws
affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights in general and subject to general
principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in
a proceeding in equity or at law).

        5.3 CONSENTS OF THIRD PARTIES. The execution, delivery and performance
of this Agreement by Buyer will not (i) violate or conflict with the certificate
of incorporation, by-laws or other constitutional documents of Buyer; (ii)
conflict with, or result in the breach or termination of, or constitute a
default under (whether with notice or lapse of time or both), or accelerate or
permit the acceleration of the performance required by, any indenture, mortgage,
lien, lease, agreement, commitment or other instrument or any order, judgment
or decree, to which Buyer is a party or by which it or its properties are bound
other than certain credit agreements which will be amended prior to the Closing;
or (ii) constitute a violation of any law, regulation, order, writ, judgement,
injunction or decree applicable to Buyer, other than violations, conflicts,
breaches, terminations, accelerations and defaults specified in the foregoing
clauses (ii) and (iii) which could not reasonably be expected to have a material
adverse effect on Buyer's ability to perform its obligations under this
Agreement. No consent, approval or authorization of any governmental authority
is required on the part of Buyer in connection with the execution, delivery and
performance of this Agreement, except for filings with the Federal Trade
Commission and the Department of Justice pursuant to the HSR Act.




                                       27
<PAGE>   33


        5.4 LITIGATION. There are no judicial or administrative actions,
proceedings or investigations pending or, to the best of Buyer's knowledge,
threatened, that question the validity of this Agreement or any action taken or
to be taken by Buyer in connection with this Agreement. There is no litigation,
proceeding or governmental investigation pending or, to the best of Buyer's
knowledge, threatened, or any order, injunction or decree outstanding, against
the Buyer that, if adversely determined, would have a material adverse effect
upon Buyer's ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

        5.5 FINANCING. Buyer has all funds, or has delivered copies of a letter
from financial institutions as to the provision of funds, as necessary to pay
the Purchase Price and related fees and expenses, and (assuming the availability
of any such funding from financial institutions) Buyer has the financial
capacity to perform all of its other obligations under this Agreement and the
closing documents to be executed hereunder. Buyer, immediately after the
Closing, will be solvent, will be able to meet its obligations and debts as they
become due, will have arrangements in place for funding of the Subsidiary so 
that it will be able to meet its obligations and debts as they come due, the
value of Buyer's assets at such time will exceed Buyer's liabilities, and Buyer
at such time will have, and will cause the Subsidiary to have, adequate capital
for the conduct of its business, including the Business.

        5.6 INVESTMENT. Buyer is purchasing the Shares for investment purposes
and not with a view to the resale or distribution of the Shares, and will not
sell the Shares in violation of applicable federal and state securities laws.

        6.  FURTHER AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES.


                                       28
<PAGE>   34

        6.1  ACCESS TO INFORMATION. Prior to the Closing, Buyer may make such
investigation of the business and properties of the Subsidiary as Buyer may
desire, and upon reasonable notice, Seller shall give to Buyer and its counsel,
accountants and other representatives reasonable access, during normal business
hours throughout the period prior to the Closing, to the property, books,
commitments, agreements, records, files and personnel of the Subsidiary, and
Seller shall furnish to Buyer during that period all copies of documents and
information concerning the Business as Buyer may reasonably request subject to
applicable law. Buyer shall hold, and shall cause its counsel, accountants and
other agents and representatives to hold, all such information and documents in
accordance with, and subject to the terms of, the confidentiality agreement
previously executed by Buyer with respect to this transaction.

        6.2 CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS PENDING THE CLOSING. Until the Closing,
except as otherwise set forth in SCHEDULE 6.2 or contemplated by this Agreement,
Seller shall, and shall cause the Subsidiary to, comply with the provisions set
forth below:

        (a) the Subsidiary shall operate the Business in the ordinary 
course;

        (b) Seller shall promptly notify Buyer of, and furnish to Buyer, any
information that Buyer may reasonably request with respect to the occurrence of
any event or the existence of any state of facts that would result in any of
Seller's representations and warranties not being true if they were made at any
time prior to or as of the date of the Closing, except that any representation
or warranty which relates to a specific date in Sections 4.11 and 4.22 shall not
require such notice;

        (c) Except as provided for under the existing Employee Benefit Plans and
Benefit Arrangements, as defined below, the Subsidiary shall not (i) grant or
agree to grant any bonuses to any employee, (ii) grant any general increase in
the rates of salaries or compensation of

                                       29
<PAGE>   35


its employees or any specific increase to any employee except such as are in
accordance with regularly scheduled periodic increases, or (iii) provide for any
new pension, retirement or other employment benefits to any of its employees or
any increase in any existing benefits;

        (d)     the Subsidiary shall not amend its certificate of incorporation
or by-laws or enter into any merger or consolidation agreement;

        (e)     the Subsidiary shall use commercially reasonable efforts to 
maintain and preserve the Business intact, to retain its present employees so
that they will be available to Buyer after the Closing and to maintain its
relationships with customers, suppliers and others so that those relationships
will be preserved after the Closing;

        (f)     the Subsidiary shall not sell, assign, voluntarily encumber, 
grant a security interest in or license with respect to, or dispose of, any of
its material assets or properties, tangible or intangible, or incur any material
liabilities, except for sales and dispositions made, or liabilities incurred, in
the ordinary course of business;

        (g)     the Subsidiary shall maintain in full force and effect all 
insurance currently maintained by the Subsidiary with respect to the Business;
and

        (h)     neither Seller nor the Subsidiary will talk to, or entertain   
offers from, other potential purchasers of the Subsidiary, and Seller will
notify Buyer if there are any contacts











                                       30

<PAGE>   36


from third parties who express an interest in purchasing the Subsidiary and
identity any such third party.

6.3     Employee and Employee Benefit Matters.
        -------------------------------------
        (a) EMPLOYMENT OF EMPLOYEES AT CLOSING; INDEMNIFICATION OF SELLER FOR
TERMINATION LIABILITY. On the Closing Date, Buyer agrees that the Subsidiary
will continue to employ the Employees at the same compensation levels and on
substantially the same terms and conditions of employment in effect as of the
Determination Time. Additionally, Buyer agrees to continue the Employee Benefit
Plans and Benefit Arrangements on substantially the same terms following the
Closing Date, with the exception of the Subsidiary's Long Term Incentive Plan
("LTIP"). Seller will fund the Subsidiary to discharge all obligations under the
LTIP in the event the LTIP is terminated at Closing. Buyer hereby agrees to
indemnify Seller from any and all termination or severance liability (including,
without limitation, any liability related to or arising out of the Worker
Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, 29 U.S.C. 2101 et seq., the
continuation coverage rules of Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code and
part 6 of Subtitle B of Title I of ERISA ("COBRA"), and any similar state and
local laws) with respect to the Employees.

        (b) TRANSFER OF ASSETS OF THE PENSION PLANS. After the Closing Date,
Seller shall cause the assets of the Pension Plans listed on SCHEDULE 6.3 to be
transferred to a trust or trusts or other funding medium established by Buyer
(the "New Pension Trusts"). Any such transfer shall occur as soon as reasonably
practicable following receipt of Seller of (i) notification from Buyer that the
applicable New Pension Trust has been established and (ii) an opinion from
counsel to Buyer that such New Pension Trust meets the requirements of Section
501(a) of the Code. The amount of assets transferred from any trust in which a
Pension Plan is invested prior to the Closing Date shall be equal to the entire
interest of the Pension Plan on the date of transfer. The amount to be
transferred

                                       31

<PAGE>   37

pursuant to this Section 6.3 with respect to any defined benefit plan shall be
in the form of cash and the amount transferred with respect to any defined
contribution plan shall be in the form agreed to by Buyer and Seller, except
with respect to the assets held in the fixed income fund, Seller shall direct
the trustee to spin off cloned contracts from such guaranteed investment
contracts and similar investments as will produce a substantially equivalent
rate of return as under the fixed income fund, to the extent practicable. If no
cloned contract can be obtained within three (3) months of the Closing Date, the
Seller shall transfer the aggregate then fair market value of the Pension Plans'
investment in such contract to the applicable New Pension Trusts in cash or in
such other marketable instruments as the Seller and Buyer mutually agree. To the
extent the process of obtaining the cloned contract extends beyond the date the
balance of the assets of such Pension Plan are transferred, Seller shall not
charge any administration expenses to the Buyer under Section 6.3(c) below.

        (c) INTERIM ADMINISTRATION OF PENSION PLANS. Prior to the transfer of
the assets of the Pension Plans to the New Pension Trust pursuant to Section
6.3(b), Seller shall continue the administration of the Pension Plans. For
purposes of the preceding sentence, "administration" shall include all actions
required on a routine basis for the proper maintenance of the Pension Plans,
including, but not limited to, the payment of all benefits or other
distributions to participants required by the provisions of the Pension Plans;
provided, however, that "administration" shall not include the making of any
employer or sponsor contributions which are or may be required to be made to
such plans. As consideration for Seller's obligation to continue the
administration of such plans, Buyer agrees for a sixty (60) day period following
the Closing Date to reimburse Seller, upon the delivery of proper invoices
identifying the applicable Pension Plan and services provided, for all
out-of-pocket expenses incurred by Seller in administration of the plans
including, but not limited to, the routine fees charged by the Pension Plans'
trustees, actuaries or third-party administrators. If the transfer to the

                                       32

<PAGE>   38


New Pension Trusts has not occurred by the end of the sixty (60) day period
referred to in the preceding sentence, Buyer shall continue to reimburse Seller
for the applicable portion of all fees incurred by the Seller in the
administration of the plans and, if the transfer has not occurred because of the
failure of Buyer to satisfy the requirements of Sections 6.3(b) above, the Buyer
shall in addition pay the Seller $5,000 for each month, pro-rated by calendar
days, after the date of the expiration of the sixty (60) day period until the
transfer to the New Pension Trusts has occurred, but in no event shall such
administration continue by Seller beyond May 31, 1997, unless the transfer has
not occurred through the failure of Seller to satisfy its responsibilities under
Section 6.3(b) of this Agreement.

        (d) Seller shall prepare the financial statements of the trusts required
for Form 5500 for the plan year ended December 31, 1996 and shall provide copies
of such statements to Buyer. All expenses relating to such preparation of
financial statements shall be borne by Seller.

        (e) Seller and Buyer agree to provide each other with such records and
information as they may reasonably request in order to carry out their
respective obligations under this Section 6.3. During the period following the
Closing and prior to the transfer of assets of the Pension Plans to the New
Pension Trusts pursuant to Section 6.3(b), Seller shall promptly forward to
Buyer any correspondence or written communications received from the IRS, the
Department of Labor, or the PBGC with respect to any Pension Plan.

        6.4 OTHER ACTION. Each of the parties shall use its best efforts to
cause the fulfillment at the earliest practicable date but, in any event, prior
to the Closing Date, of all of the conditions to their respective obligations to
consummate the transactions under this Agreement.




                                       33
<PAGE>   39

       6.5  NOTICES. Each party shall promptly notify the other party in writing
of, and furnish to such party any information that such party may reasonably
request with respect to, the occurrence of any event or the existence of any
state of facts that would (a) result in the party's representations and
warranties not being true if they were made at any time prior to or as of the
Closing Date, except that any representation or warranty which relates to a
specific date in Sections 4.11 and 4.22 shall not require such notice, or (b)
impair the party's ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.

        6.6 HSR ACT. As promptly as practicable after the execution of this
Agreement, each party shall, in cooperation with the other, but at its own
expense, file any reports or notifications and pay any fees that may be required
to be paid by it under applicable law including filings under the HSR Act with
the Federal Trade Commission and the Antitrust Division of the Department of
Justice, and shall furnish to the other all such information in its possession
as may be necessary for the completion of the reports or notifications to be
filed by the other. Each party will use its good-faith beet efforts to obtain
any early termination of the applicable waiting period, and shall promptly make
any further filings pursuant thereto that may be necessary, proper or advisable.

        6.7 EXPENSES. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this
Agreement, Buyer and Seller shall bear their own respective expenses incurred in
connection with this Agreement and in connection with all obligations required
to be performed by each of them under this Agreement.

        6.8 PUBLICITY. Buyer and Seller shall consult with each other before
issuing any press release concerning the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement and, except as may be required by applicable law or any listing
agreement with or regulation or rule of any stock exchange on which the
securities of the Subsidiary's parent or Buyer (or its parent) are listed or
traded, will not


                                       34

<PAGE>   40

issue a press release prior to such consultation. If Buyer or Seller is so
required to issue a press release it shall use its best efforts to inform the
other party hereto prior to issuing it.

        6.9 TRANSFER TAXES. Any sales taxes, real property transfer or gains
taxes, recording fees or any other taxes payable as a result of the sale of the
Shares or any other action contemplated by this Agreement shall be paid by the
Buyer. Seller agrees to pay all costs associated with the transfer of the
Johnstown property to Subsidiary.

        6.10 SUPPLEMENT TO DISCLOSURES. For purposes of determining the accuracy
of the representations and warranties of Seller contained in Article 4 and the
fulfillment of the conditions precedent set forth in Section 7.1(a), the
Schedules delivered by Seller shall be deemed to include only that information
contained therein on the date of this Agreement and as the same may be amended
or supplemented by Seller with Buyer's consent (which shall not be unreasonably
withheld) prior to the Closing Date.

        6.11 PRESERVATION OF RECORDS. Buyer and Seller agree, at their own
expense that each (a) shall preserve and keep the records of the Subsidiary for
a period of seven years from the Closing, or for any longer periods as may be
required by any government agency or ongoing litigation, and (b) shall make such
records available to the other as may be reasonably required by the other. In
the event either party wishes to destroy such records after the time specified
above, it shall first give sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other
and Seller shall have the right at its option and expense, upon prior written
notice given to the other within that sixty (60) day period, to take possession
of the records within thirty (30) days after the date of one party's notice to
the other.

        6.12    Certain Post-Closing Assistance by the Buyer.
                --------------------------------------------
        (a)     Buyer agrees to cause the appropriate personnel, at no 
out-of-pocket cost or expense to Buyer, to prepare all customary accounting,
tax, employment, benefits-related and

                                       35

<PAGE>   41

similar reports for the Subsidiary for periods up to the Closing Date which are
reasonably requested by Seller.

        (b) Buyer agrees to cause the appropriate personnel to assist Seller in
the prosecution or defense of any claims and litigation (including counterclaims
and tax refund claims filed by the Seller) for which Seller has indemnified
Buyer hereunder or which Buyer has not assumed, provided that such assistance
does not unreasonably disrupt the ordinary business operations of the Business.
Such services shall be rendered by the Buyer to the Seller at no out-of-pocket
cost or expense to Buyer. Buyer agrees promptly to pay to Seller upon receipt of
any amount collected by Buyer in connection with any action, suit or proceeding
for which Seller has agreed to indemnify Buyer under Section 9.1(a).

        6.13    Treasury Matters.
                ----------------

               (a) Seller shall continue to cause the funding of the 
Subsidiary's checks, in accordance with past practices, which are presented for
payment through the day prior to the Closing Date. Seller shall have no
obligation to fund checks which are presented for payment on and after the
Closing Date, provided that there is an accrual on the Final Balance Sheet
therefor. Buyer shall assume all of the bank accounts of the Business on the
Closing Date and be prepared to fund the above-mentioned checks which are
presented for payment on and after the Closing Date. Amounts received in the
lockbox and depository accounts of the Business through the Determination Time
shall be retained by Seller notwithstanding that, consistent with past
practices, such collections may not be credited to Seller or its affiliates
until or after the Closing Date.

               (b) the Subsidiary is party to or financially supported by 
certain letters of credit, bonding arrangements and/or guarantees, related to
the Business, in respect of which the Subsidiary's affiliates are subject to
continuing obligations (the "Credit Support Documents"). The

                                       36
<PAGE>   42

parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to terminate the Credit
Support Documents as soon as practicable after the Closing. Buyer shall cause
the obligations which are secured by the Credit Support Documents and which
relate to Buyer's operation of the Business after the Closing to be discharged
in such a manner that the Subsidiary and its affiliates will not be required to
make any payments under the Credit Support Documents in relation thereto. Should
any such payments be required and paid' Buyer shall reimburse the party making
payment upon demand. It is understood that the Subsidiary shall not have any
right to incur any new obligations secured or supported by the Credit Support
Documents after the Closing and Buyer shall cause the Subsidiary not to incur
any such obligations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the guaranty by Parent of
the line of credit between NationsBank, N.A. and the Subsidiary will be
terminated prior to the Closing.

        6.14. SCM NAME. Buyer acknowledges that Subsidiary's use of the name
"SCM" is limited. Notwithstanding any provisions of this Agreement to the
contrary, Seller's only obligation with respect to the name SCM is to provide
Subsidiary with the use of such name for one year after the Closing Date.


                                       37
<PAGE>   43

        7.      Conditions of Closing.
                ---------------------

        7.1    CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO OBLIGATIONS OF BUYER. The obligation of
Buyer to consummate the purchase under this Agreement is subject to the
fulfillment, prior to or at the Closing, of each of the following conditions
(any or all of which may be waived by Buyer):

        (a) all representations and warranties of Seller contained in this
Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects, at and as of the
time of the Closing with the same effect as though made again at, and as of,
that time (except that any representation or warranty that relates to a specific
date in Sections 4.11,4.12,4.15(c), 4.21 and 4.22 shall be true and correct on
and as of that date);

        (b) Seller shall have performed and complied in all material respects
with all obligations and covenants required by this Agreement to be performed or
complied with by Seller prior to or at the Closing;

        (c)     Buyer shall have been furnished with the documents referred to
in Section 8.1;

        (d)     the waiting period under the HSR Act, if applicable, shall have 
expired or been terminated;

        (e) no provision of any applicable law or regulation shall prohibit
Seller, and there shall not be in effect any injunction or restraining order
issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in any action or proceeding against
Seller regarding the consummation of the sale and purchase of the Shares
pursuant to this Agreement;

        (f) between the date hereof and the Closing, there shall have been no
material damage or destruction to the assets of the Business by fire, flood,
windstorm or other Act of God;

                                       38
<PAGE>   44

        (g)  there shall have been no material adverse change in the business
or properties of the Business; and

        (h) before Closing, Buyer shall receive at Seller's expense a survey of
the Owned Property prepared after the date hereof by a registered land surveyor,
which survey will not show any encroachment of improvements on or from the
property or other matters that would materially and adversely affect the use of
such property.

        7.2 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO OBLIGATIONS OF SELLER. The obligation of
Seller to consummate the sale under this Agreement is subject to the 
fulfillment, prior to or at the Closing, of each of the following conditions
(any or all of which may be waived by Seller):

        (a) all representations and warranties of Buyer contained in this
Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects at and as of the
time of the Closing with the same effect as though made again at, and as of;
that time;

        (b) Buyer shall have performed and complied in all material respects
with all obligations and covenants required by this Agreement to be performed or
complied with by Buyer prior to or at the Closing;

        (c) Seller shall have been furnished with the documents referred to
in Section 8.2;

        (d) the waiting period under the HSR Act, if applicable, shall have
expired or been terminated; and

        (e) no provision of any applicable law or regulation shall prohibit
Buyer, and there shall not be in effect any injunction or restraining order
issued by a court of competent jurisdiction in any action or proceeding against
Buyer regarding the consummation of the sale and purchase of the Shares pursuant
to this Agreement.

                                       39

<PAGE>   45

        8.      Documents to be Delivered at the Closing.
                -----------------------------------------

        8.1     DOCUMENTS TO BE DELIVERED BY SELLER. At the Closing, Seller 
shall deliver, or cause to be delivered, to Buyer the following:

        (a) one or more executed stock powers or other instruments of 
transfer, dated the Closing Date, transferring to Buyer all of the Seller's
right, title and interest in and to the Shares;

        (b) a copy of resolutions of the hoard of directors of Seller
authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Seller
and a certificate of the secretary or assistant secretary of Seller, dated the
Closing Date, that such resolutions were duly adopted and are in full force and
effect;

        (c) a certificate, dated the Closing Date, executed by an officer of 
Seller certifying to the fulfillment of the conditions specified in Sections
7.1(a);

        (d) a favorable opinion of the General Counsel to Seller, subject to
customary qualifications and limitations, as to the due execution and delivery
of this Agreement and the documents delivered by Seller at the Closing and as to
the matters set forth in Sections 4.1, 4.2. and 4.4, and, to the best of such
counsel's knowledge, Sections 4.3, 4.5 and 4.14;

        (e) a Noncompete Agreement substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A 
hereto; and

        (f) a Tax Sharing and Indemnification Agreement substantially in the
form of EXHIBIT B hereto. 

                                       40
<PAGE>   46

           8.2 DOCUMENTS TO BE DELIVERED BY BUYER.  At the Closing, Buyer shall 
deliver to Seller the following:

        (a) payment and evidence of the wire transfer referred to in 
Section 2.3(a);

        (b) a copy of the resolutions of the board of directors of Buyer
authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by Buyer,
and a certificate of its secretary or assistant secretary, dated the Closing
Date, that such resolutions were duly adopted and are in full force and effect;

        (c)     a certificate, dated the Closing Date executed by an officer of
Buyer certifying to the fulfillment of the conditions specified in Section
7.2(a) and 7.2(b);

        (d) a favorable opinion of General Counsel to Buyer as to subject to
customary qualifications and limitations, as to the due execution and delivery
of this Agreement and the documents delivered by Buyer at the Closing and as to
the matters set forth in Sections 5.1, 5.2 and, to the best of such counsel's
knowledge, Sections 5.3 and 5.4; and

        (e) a Tax Sharing and Indemnification Agreement substantially in
the form of EXHIBIT B hereto.

        9.      Indemnification and Related Matters.
                -----------------------------------
        9.1     Indemnification.
                ---------------
        (a) Subject to the provisions of this Article 9, Seller agrees to
indemnify and hold Buyer and its affiliates, predecessors, successors and
assigns (and their respective officers, directors, employees and agents)
harmless from and against all actions, suits, proceedings, claims, demands,
assessments, judgments, damages, costs and expenses, in excess of any reserves
or accruals on the Final Balance Sheet which have been specifically identified
in the books and records of the Subsidiary used for preparation of the
Preliminary Balance Sheet or which relate to events subsequent

                                       41

<PAGE>   47

to September 28, 1996 for which specific reserves will be provided on the Final
Balance Sheet, including reasonable attorneys' fees arising or resulting from
the following:

             (i) a breach of any representation or warranty on the part of 
Seller under the terms of this Agreement or any other document other than the
Tax Sharing and Indemnification Agreement executed by Seller pursuant hereto;

             (ii) non-fulfilment of any agreement on the part of Seller under 
the terms of this Agreement or any other document executed by Seller pursuant
hereto; and

             (iii)  Environmental Damages, to the extent and in the manner set
forth in Section 9.5.

        (b)     Subject to the provisions of this Article 9, Buyer agrees to 
indemnify and hold Seller and its affiliates, predecessors, successors and
assigns (and their respective officers, directors, employees and agents)
harmless from and against all actions, suits, proceedings, claims, demands,
assessments, judgments, damages, costs and expenses, including reasonable
attorneys' fees arising or resulting from the following:

             (i) a breach of any representation or warranty on the part of 
Buyer under the terms of this Agreement or any other document executed by Buyer
pursuant hereto;

             (ii) non-fulfillment of any agreement on the part of Buyer under 
the terms of this Agreement or any other document executed by Buyer pursuant
hereto;

             (iii)  Environmental Damages, to the extent and in the manner set
forth in Section 9.5;

             (iv)  any and all actions, suits and proceedings pending or
commenced, or any other claims or demands pending or asserted against Seller or
any affiliate of Seller before or after the Determination Time with respect to
the Business (excluding Environmental

                                       42
<PAGE>   48

Damages) except for those actions, suits and proceedings which are the
responsibility of Seller under Section 9.1(a);

              (v) any deductibles payable by Seller or Parent on or after the
Closing with respect to claims of the Subsidiary covered by insurance policies
listed in SCHEDULE 4.20; and

              (vi) any and all claims or liabilities in relation to the Employee
Benefit Plans and Benefit Arrangements.

        9.2     Determination of Damages and Related Matters.

        (a)     In calculating any amounts payable to Buyer pursuant to Sections
9.1(a) or 9.5 or payable to Seller pursuant to Sections 9.1(b) or 9.5, (i)
Seller or Buyer, as the case may be, shall receive credit for (y) any reduction
in actual tax liability as a result of the facts giving rise to the claim for
indemnification, and (z) any insurance recoveries, and (ii) no amount shall be
included for Buyer's or Seller's, as the case may be, special or consequential
damages.

        (b)     Seller or Buyer, as the case maybe, shall have no liability 
under Sections 9.1 (a)(i) and 9.1 (b)(i) for breaches of representations and
warranties under Articles 4 and 5 of this Agreement, respectively, unless the
aggregate amount of the damages and losses to Seller or Buyer from all claims
finally determined to arise under Article 4 and 5, respectively, exceed an
amount equal to $750,000 and, in such event, Seller and Buyer shall be required
to pay only the amount by which such aggregate amount of claims exceeds said
amount in the aggregate; provided, further, that in no event shall the amount of
Seller's aggregate liability under this Section 9 exceed the Purchase Price.



                                       43
<PAGE>   49

        (c) The indemnification provided for in this Article 9 shall, from and
after the Closing, be the sole remedy for any of the matters referred to herein
and the indemnification under Section 9.5 shall be the sole remedy for any
Environmental Claims and for any breach of representation or warranty regarding
environmental matters.

        9.3 TIME AND MANNER OF CERTAIN CLAIMS. Except as otherwise expressly
provided herein, Seller and Buyer shall be liable for damages for breach of
warranty set forth in Articles 4 or 5 of this Agreement respectively and
asserted under Section 9.1 (a)(i) or Section 9.1 (b)(i) respectively only to the
extent that notice of a claim therefor complying with the requirements of this
Section is asserted by the other in writing and delivered prior to the
expiration of a period ending eighteen (18) months from the Closing Date;
provided, how ever, that no claim may be made by Buyer against Seller with
respect to Sections 4.6(b), 4.8 and 4.9 after the resolution of the issues
related to the payment to be made pursuant to Section 2.3(c) or the receipt of
such payment. Any notice of a claim shall state specifically the facts giving
rise to the alleged basis for the claim and estimate the amount of liability
asserted against the other party by reason of the claim.

        9.4 DEFENSE OF CLAIMS BY THIRD PARTIES. If any claim is made against
Buyer or Seller, as the case may be, that, if sustained, would give rise to a
liability of the other under this Agreement, Buyer or Seller, as the case may
be, shall promptly cause notice of the claim to be delivered to the other and
shall afford the other and its counsel, at the other's sole expense, the
opportunity to defend or settle the claim. If such notice and opportunity are
not given to the other, or if any claim is compromised or settled without its
consent, no liability shall be imposed upon the other by reason of such claim,
unless the party failing to provide such notice and opportunity can establish
that such failure did not prejudice the other party.

                                       44
<PAGE>   50


        9.5     Environmental Matters.
                ---------------------

        (a) Seller will indemnify and hold harmless Buyer and its Affiliates, 
as defined below, and the Subsidiary and will reimburse Buyer and its 
Affiliates, as defined below, and the Subsidiary for any liability, damages,
costs and expenses including costs of investigation, analysis, cleanup,
containment or other environmental remediation (collectively, "Environmental
Damages") with respect to:

              (i) fines and penalties incurred for violations of Environmental
Law arising out of operations of the Subsidiary on or prior to the Closing and
there shall be no time limit on claims by Buyer against Seller for such
liabilities;

              (ii) fines, penalties or corrective action arising out of a
violation of the storage time limitations for Hazardous Materials under the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act arising out of operations of the
Subsidiary on or prior to the Closing and there shall be no time limit on claims
by Buyer against Seller for such liabilities; and

              (iii) the off-site disposal of Hazardous Materials by the
Subsidiary prior to the Closing with respect to any off-site locations not
listed on SCHEDULE 9.5(b) which liability shall terminate six (6) years after
the Closing Date.

        (b) Buyer shall indemnify and hold harmless Seller and its Affiliates,
as defined below, for any Environmental Damages with respect to the off-site
disposal of Hazardous Materials by the Subsidiary prior to Closing with respect
to the off-site locations identified in SCHEDULE 9.5(b) (the "Listed Off-Site
Environmental Liabilities") provided, however, that Buyer, at or prior to
Closing, may elect in writing to require Seller to indemnify and hold harmless
Buyer and its Affiliates from any Environmental Damages with respect to the
Listed Off-Site Environmental Liabilities and the litigation set forth on
SCHEDULE 9.5(b).

                                       45
<PAGE>   51
        (c) (i) This Section 9.5(c) governs the allocation between Seller and
Buyer of Environmental Damages, other than as set forth in Section 9.5(a) and
(b) above, arising from or in connection with any environmental condition
existing as of the Closing (including any future spreading of contamination
existing at such time) on any real property owned or leased by the Subsidiary
with respect to any actions taken by the Buyer or the Subsidiary (y) in response
to a claim, demand, investigation or inquiry made against Buyer or the
Subsidiary by any governmental agency or any third party, or (z) to correct or
remediate any environmental condition, as required by applicable law or
regulations or a governmental agency, to achieve compliance with any
Environmental Law.

        (ii)   With respect to Environmental Damages arising out of the
matters set forth in Section 9.5(c)(i) pursuant to which a claim is made by
Buyer against Seller (A) before the first anniversary of the Determination Time,
Seller shall indemnify and hold Buyer harmless to the extent of ninety-five
percent (95%) of such Environmental Damages, and Buyer shall indemnify and hold
Seller harmless to the extent of five percent (5%) of such Environmental
Damages; or (B) after the first anniversary of the Determination Time but before
the third anniversary of the Determination Time, Seller shall indemnify and hold
Buyer harmless to the extent of ninety percent (90%) of such Environmental
Damages, and Buyer shall indemnity and hold Seller harmless to the extent often
percent (10%) of such Environmental Damages; or (C) after the third
anniversary of the Determination Time but before the fifth anniversary of the
Determination Time, Seller shall indemnify and hold Buyer harmless to the extent
of seventy-five percent (75%) of such Environmental Damages, and Buyer shall
indemnify and hold Seller harmless to the extent of twenty-five percent (25%) of
such Environmental Damages; or (D) after the fifth anniversary of the
Determination Time, or in the event



                                       46
<PAGE>   52

the Environmental Damages are attributable solelY to a period after the
Determination Time, Buyer shall indemnify and hold Seller harmless to the extent
of 100% of such Environmental Damages.

        (d)     It is further agreed as follows:

              (i) The parties agree to act in good faith in undertaking work to
remediate environmental matters that may give rise to a claim for
indemnification hereunder with a view to avoiding unnecessary or excessive
costs.

              (ii) Environmental Damages shall be limited to damages directly
relating to rectifying the environmental matter to the minimum extent required
by applicable law. Each party agrees that, except as required by law or
regulations, it shall not by voluntary or discretionary action, accelerate the
timing, or increase the cost, of any obligations of the other party under this
Section 9.5.

              (iii) The party having liability for at least 51% of any
Environmental Damages shall have the right to control and manage all discussions
with third parties and all proceedings and activities regarding the satisfaction
and discharge of the matter, provided that Buyer shall have the right to
participate in any discussions affecting the business of the Subsidiary or the
Owned Property, and in planning or performing any work at the Owned Property,
and the parties shall make commercially reasonable efforts to avoid interfering
with operations of the Business.

              (iv) In the event that action is required by Seller under this
Section 9.5 to investigate, clean up or otherwise remedy a situation on the
Owned Property, it is agreed that Buyer, at no cost, shall give Seller and its
authorized representatives and agents access to and reasonable use of the
property, all natural materials (including, without limitation, water, dirt,
clay, rocks and dirt related materials) on the property and all equipment,
facilities and utilities on the property, all subject to Section 9.5(d)(iii). 


                                       47
<PAGE>   53

         (v) For so long as Seller's indemnification contained in this 
Section 9.5 shall be in effect, Buyer shall provide to Seller a copy of all
information or reports that are provided by Buyer to the National Response
Center or other federal, state or local agency which may affect Seller's
liability to Buyer under any claim made by Buyer under this Section 9.5. As soon
as practicable following request by Seller, Buyer shall provide to Seller copies
of all photographs in Buyer's possession with respect to each such matter.

        (vi)  If Environmental Damages are attributed to transactions or
occurrences that take place before and after the Closing and to which both
Seller and Buyer (or their affiliates) have contributed, liability shall be
further apportioned between Seller and Buyer on a reasonable basis, taking into
account, in addition to other relevant factors, the degree of contribution on
the part of Seller and Buyer before and after the Closing Date. Any disputes
regarding such apportionment will be discussed by the parties in good faith and,
if unresolved, will be referred to non-binding arbitration by a mutually
agreed-upon independent environmental professional to be conducted in accordance
with the rules then existing of the American Arbitration Association. The fees
and expenses of such arbitration shall be shared equally by Buyer and Seller.

        10.     Miscellaneous.
                -------------
        10.1 FINDERS. Except for the engagement of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
Securities Corporation ("DLJ") by Buyer, Buyer and Seller respectively represent
and warrant that they have not employed or utilized the services of any broker
or finder in connection with this Agreement or the transactions contemplated by
it. Seller shall indemnify and hold Buyer harmless from and against any and all
claims for brokers' commissions made by any party as a result of this Agreement
and the transactions contemplated hereunder to the extent that any such
commission was incurred, or alleged to have been incurred, by, through or under
Seller. Buyer shall indemnify and

                                       48
<PAGE>   54

hold Seller harmless from and against any and all claims for brokers'
commissions made by DLJ and/or any other party as a result of this Agreement and
transactions contemplated hereunder to the extent that any such commission was
incurred, or alleged to have been incurred, by, through or under Buyer.

        10.2 ENTIRE AGREEMENT This Agreement (with its Schedules and Exhibits)
together with the existing confidentiality agreement between the parties
contains, and is intended as, a complete statement of all of the terms of the
arrangements between the parties with respect to the matters provided for,
supersedes any previous agreements and understandings between the parties with
respect to those matters (except as otherwise provided in Section 6.1), and
cannot be changed or terminated orally.

        10.3 JURISDICTION AND GOVERNING LAW. Seller and Buyer each hereby
consent to personal jurisdiction in any action brought with respect to this
Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder in any federal or state
court within the State of New Jersey or the State of Ohio and agree that service
of process may be accomplished pursuant to the provisions of Section 10.6 below.
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the law of
the State of New Jersey without giving effect to conflicts of law principles
thereof.

        10.4 SCHEDULES; TABLES OF CONTENTS AND HEADINGS. Any matter disclosed on
any Schedule to this Agreement shall be deemed to have been disclosed on all
other Schedules to this Agreement to the extent that it should have been
disclosed on such other Schedule. The table of contents and section headings of
this Agreement and titles given to Schedules to this Agreement are for reference
purposes only and are to be given no effect in the construction or
interpretation of this Agreement.




                                      49
<PAGE>   55

        10.5 NOTICES. All notices and other communications under this Agreement
shall be in writing and shall be deemed given when delivered personally
(including by confirmed legible telecopier transmission) or mailed by certified
mail, return receipt requested, to the parties at the following addresses (or to
such address as a party may have specified by notice given to the other party
pursuant to this provision):


               If to Seller, to:                             
                                                             
               SUSI Corporation                              
               c/o U.S. Industries, Inc.                     
               101 Wood Avenue South                         
               Iselin, New Jersey 08830                      
               Attention:      General Counsel               
               Telecopy No.: (908) 767-2208                  
                                                             
               with a copy to:                               
                                                             
               Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff P.L.L. 
               2300 BP America Building                      
               200 Public Square                             
               Cleveland, Ohio 44114                         
               Attention:      Irv Berliner                  
               Telecopy No.: (216)363-4588                   
                                                             
               If to Buyer, to:                              
                                                             
               OM Group, Inc.                                
               3800 Terminal Tower                           
               Cleveland, Ohio 44113                         
               Attention; General Counsel                    
               Telecopy No.: (216) 781-0902                  
                                                             
               with a copy to;                               
                                                             
               Squire, Sanders & Dempsey                     
               4900 Key Tower                                
               127 Public Square                             
               Cleveland, Ohio 44114-1304                    
               Attention:      Carolyn J. Buller             
               Telecopy No.: (216)479-8776                   
                                                             
               

                                       50
<PAGE>   56

        10.6 SEPARABILITY. In the event that any provision hereof would, under
applicable law, be invalid or enforceable in any respect, such provision shall
be construed by modifying or limiting it so as to be valid and enforceable to
the maximum extent compatible with, and permissible under, applicable law. The
invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not
affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement
which shall remain in full force and effect.

        10.7 WAIVER. Any party may waive compliance by another with any of the
provisions of this Agreement. No waiver of any provision shall be construed as a
waiver of any other provision. Any waiver must be in writing.

        10.8 BINDING EFFECT; ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement shall be binding upon
and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and
permitted assigns. Nothing in this Agreement shall create or be deemed to create
any third party beneficiary rights in any person or entity not a party to this
Agreement. No assignment of this Agreement or of any rights or obligation
hereunder may be made by either party (by operation of law or otherwise) without
the prior written consent of the other and any attempted assignment without the
required consent shall be void; provided, however, that no such consent shall be
required of Buyer or Seller to assign part or all of its rights under this
Agreement to one or more of its subsidiaries or affiliates, but no such
assignment by Buyer or Seller of its rights or obligations hereunder shall
relieve Buyer or Seller of any of its obligations under this Agreement to the
other.

        10.9 BEST KNOWLEDGE. As used in this Agreement "to the best of Seller's
knowledge" or words of similar import shall mean actual knowledge possessed by
(i) an executive officer of Seller, (ii) an executive officer of the Subsidiary,
and (iii) those individuals set forth on


                                       51

<PAGE>   57

SCHEDULE 10.9, and "to the best of Buyer's knowledge" or words of similar import
shall mean actual knowledge possessed by an executive officer of Buyer.

        10.10 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement maybe executed in counterparts, each
of which shall be an original, but which together shall constitute one and the
same Agreement.

                                       52

<PAGE>   58

        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Stock Purchase Agreement has been duly 
executed by the parties as of the date first set forth above.


                                   SUSI CORPORATION  
                                                     
                                                     
                                   By: /s/ George H. MacLean
                                       ------------------------------
                                       George H. MacLean
    

                                                     
                                   OM GROUP, INC.    
                                                     
                                   By: /s/ James P. Mooney
                                       ------------------------------
                                       James P. Mooney






GUARANTY
- --------

       U.S. Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation, hereby agrees to 
unconditionally guaranty the obligations of Seller set forth in this Agreement


ACCEPTED AND AGREED:
- -------------------

U.S. INDUSTRIES, INC.


By: /s/ Christian R. Guntner
    ---------------------------
    Christian R. Guntner


                                       53

<PAGE>   1

Exhibit 11



                                 OM Group, Inc.
              Statement Regarding Computation Of Earnings Per Share




<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                    Year ended December 31,
                                                                  ------------------------------------------------------
                                                                         1996                1995                 1994
                                                                  ------------------------------------------------------
                                                                            (in thousands, except per share data)

<S>                                                                       <C>                <C>                <C>   
Primary

        Average shares outstanding                                        18,624             18,638             18,716
        Net effect of dilutive stock options - based
               on the treasury stock method using
               average market price                                          642                500                396

                                                                 ======================================================
        Totals                                                            19,266             19,137             19,112
                                                                 ======================================================

        Net income                                                       $30,047            $25,933            $20,742
                                                                 ======================================================

        Per share amount                                                   $1.56              $1.36              $1.09
                                                                 ======================================================




Fully Diluted

        Average shares outstanding                                        18,624             18,638             18,716
        Net effect of dilutive stock options - based
               on the treasury stock method using the
               year-end market price, if higher than
               average market price                                          669                564                459

                                                                 ======================================================
        Totals                                                            19,293             19,202             19,175
                                                                 ======================================================

        Net income                                                       $30,047            $25,933            $20,742
                                                                 ======================================================

        Per share amount                                                   $1.56              $1.35              $1.08
                                                                 ======================================================
</TABLE>





<PAGE>   1

                                                                     Exhibit 21



SUBSIDIARY*                       PLACE OF ORGANIZATION OR INCORPORATION
- -----------                       --------------------------------------

OMG Americas, Inc.                               Ohio
 
Vasset, S.A.                                     France

OMG Europe, GmbH                                 Germany

OMG Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.                       Taiwan

OMG Kokkola Chemicals, Oy                        Finland

OMG Apex, Inc.                                   Delaware

D&O, Inc. (50%)                                  Japan

J&O, Inc. (50%)                                  Korea



__________________
* Percentage in parentheses indicates the Company's ownership if other than
  100%.



<PAGE>   1
                                                                     Exhibit 23




We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration
Statements of our report dated January 30, 1997, with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of OM Group, Inc. included in the Annual
Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 1996:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Registration Number                  Description                                Filing Date
- -------------------                  -----------                                -----------
<S>                      <C>                                                  <C>
33-74674                 OM Group, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Compensation
                          Plan -- Form S-8 Registration Statement --
                          1,015,625 Shares                                    January 27, 1994

333-07529                OMG Americas, Inc. Employees' Profit Sharing Plan
                          -- Form S-8 Registration Statement -- 250,000
                          Shares                                              July 3, 1996

333-07531                OM Group, Inc. Non-Employee Directors' Equity
                          Plan -- Form S-8 Registration Statement --
                          250,000 Shares                                      July 3, 1996
</TABLE>




                                                         /s/  ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Cleveland, Ohio
March 21, 1997

<PAGE>   1

                                                                    Exhibit 24

                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ Eugene Bak
                                     ------------------------------------

<PAGE>   2

                                  


                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ Markku Toivanen
                                     ------------------------------------

<PAGE>   3



                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ Lee R. Brodeur
                                     ------------------------------------

<PAGE>   4




                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ Thomas R. Miklich
                                     ------------------------------------

<PAGE>   5




                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ John E. Mooney
                                     ------------------------------------

<PAGE>   6



                                 OM GROUP, INC.


                                   Form 10-K
                        Power of Attorney for Directors
                        -------------------------------


     The undersigned, a director of OM Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
"Company"), which anticipates the filing with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the "Commission") under the provisions of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "Act") a Form 10-K (together with any and all subsequent
amendments, the "Form 10-K"), does hereby constitute and appoint James P.
Mooney, James M. Materna or Michael J. Scott and any one of them with full power
of substitution and resubstitution, as attorney or attorneys to execute and file
on behalf of the undersigned, in his capacity as a director of the Company, the
Form 10-K and any and all other documents to be filed with the Commission
pertaining to the Form 10-K, with full power and authority to do and perform any
and all acts and things whatsoever required or necessary to be done in the
premises, as fully as to all intents and purposes as he could do if personally
present, hereby ratifying and approving th acts of said attorneys and any of
them and any such substitution.

     Executed this 21st day of March, 1997.



                                     /s/ Frank Butler
                                     ------------------------------------


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from the OM
Group, Inc. Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 1996 and the OM Group,
Inc. Consolidated Statement of Income for the twelve months ended December 31,
1996 and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such financial statements.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                                                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                                                    12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                                           DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                                                DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                                            7,818
<SECURITIES>                                                          0
<RECEIVABLES>                                                    60,264
<ALLOWANCES>                                                        210
<INVENTORY>                                                     195,050
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                                271,167
<PP&E>                                                          167,805
<DEPRECIATION>                                                   57,184
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                                  438,633
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                                            97,306
<BONDS>                                                         109,295
                                                 0
                                                           0
<COMMON>                                                            188
<OTHER-SE>                                                      185,134
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                                    438,633
<SALES>                                                         387,999
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                                                387,999
<CGS>                                                           304,025
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                                   336,578
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                                   (467)
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                                      0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                                7,485
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                                  44,403
<INCOME-TAX>                                                     14,356
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                                              30,047
<DISCONTINUED>                                                        0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                                       0
<CHANGES>                                                             0
<NET-INCOME>                                                     30,047
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                                      1.56
<EPS-DILUTED>                                                      1.56
        

</TABLE>


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