CMC INDUSTRIES INC
DEFM14A, 1999-06-28
TELEPHONE & TELEGRAPH APPARATUS
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                                 SCHEDULE 14A

          PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(A) OF THE SECURITIES
                    EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (AMENDMENT NO.  )

Filed by the Registrant  [X]

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [_]

Check the appropriate box:

[_]  Preliminary Proxy Statement           [_]  Confidential, for Use of the
                                                Commission Only (as permitted
[X]  Definitive Proxy Statement                 by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

[_]  Definitive Additional Materials

[_]  Soliciting Material Pursuant to (S) 240.14a-11(c) or (S) 240.14a-12

                            CMC Industries, Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               (Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   (Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)


Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

[_]  No fee required.

[_]  Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11.


     (1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
         pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which
         the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (5) Total fee paid:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------

[X]  Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.*

[_]  Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
     Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee
     was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement
     number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

     (1) Amount Previously Paid:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (3) Filing Party:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------


     (4) Date Filed:

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------

Notes: * Fee paid with preliminary proxy materials filed by ACT Manufacturing,
         Inc. on June 10, 1999.



                                       2
<PAGE>



[Act Manufacturing Logo Appears Here]
                                              [CMC Industries Logo Appears Here]

                        SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
                  MERGER PROPOSED--YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT

   The boards of directors of ACT Manufacturing, Inc. and CMC Industries, Inc.
have unanimously approved a merger and merger agreement that will result in CMC
operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT after the merger.

   If the merger is completed:

  . Each share of CMC common stock you own will be exchanged for 0.50 of a
    share of ACT common stock.

  . ACT stockholders will continue to own their existing shares.

   ACT expects to issue approximately 3.9 million shares of ACT common stock to
CMC stockholders in connection with the merger. The shares of ACT common stock
to be issued to holders of CMC common stock after the merger will represent
approximately 30% of the outstanding ACT voting stock after the merger.

   ACT common stock is listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol
"ACTM" and on June 21, 1999, ACT common stock closed at $12.56 per share. CMC
common stock is listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol "CMCI."

   The merger cannot be completed unless both ACT's and CMC's stockholders
approve the matters proposed in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. In
connection with the merger agreement, beneficial holders of approximately 55%
of the outstanding ACT common stock and beneficial holders of approximately 29%
of the outstanding CMC common stock (each excluding any shares issuable upon
the exercise of options) have agreed to approve the merger, the merger
agreement and certain related matters. We have scheduled special meetings for
you to vote on the matters proposed in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Whether or not you plan to attend your special meeting, please take the time to
vote by completing and mailing the enclosed proxy card to us. YOUR VOTE IS VERY
IMPORTANT. The dates, times and places of the meetings are as follows:

<TABLE>
<S>  <C>
                                                 For CMC stockholders:
     For ACT stockholders:


                                                    July 29, 1999
           July 29, 1999                            8:00 a.m. local time
           11:00 a.m. local time                    CMC Industries, Inc.
           Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP          4950 Patrick Henry Drive
           125 High Street, High Street Tower       Santa Clara, California
           Boston, Massachusetts
</TABLE>
           Conference Room 22B

   This document is the joint proxy statement of ACT and CMC for their
respective meetings and the prospectus of ACT for the ACT common stock to be
issued in connection with the merger. This document provides you with detailed
information about the proposed merger. We encourage you to read this entire
document carefully. In particular, you should carefully consider the discussion
in the section entitled "Risk Factors" beginning on page 14 of this document
for a discussion of risks associated with the merger.


<TABLE>
<S>  <C>
           /s/ John A. Pino                        /s/ Matthew G. Landa
             John A. Pino                            Matthew G. Landa
   Chairman of the Board, President           President and Chief Executive
      and Chief Executive Officer                        Officer
        ACT Manufacturing, Inc.                    CMC Industries, Inc.
</TABLE>

Neither the United States Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state
securities commission has approved or disapproved the ACT common stock to be
issued in the merger or determined if this joint proxy statement/prospectus is
accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

   This joint proxy statement/prospectus is dated June 23, 1999 and is expected
to be first mailed to stockholders on July 1, 1999.
<PAGE>

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.
                            4950 Patrick Henry Drive
                         Santa Clara, California 95054

                               ----------------

                   NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

                            To Be Held July 29, 1999

To the Stockholders of CMC Industries, Inc.:

   Notice is Hereby Given that a special meeting of stockholders of CMC
Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will be held at 8:00 a.m., California
time, on July 29, 1999, at CMC Industries, Inc., 4950 Patrick Henry Drive,
Santa Clara, California, to consider and vote upon the following proposals:

     1. To approve and adopt an Agreement and Plan of Merger and
  Reorganization dated as of May 10, 1999, among ACT Manufacturing, Inc., a
  Massachusetts corporation, East Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation
  and wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT, and CMC Industries, Inc. The merger
  agreement provides for, among other things, the exchange of each issued and
  outstanding share of common stock of CMC for 0.50 of a share of ACT common
  stock, the assumption of all outstanding options to purchase CMC common
  stock and the merger of East Acquisition Corp. with and into CMC, with CMC
  being the surviving corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT after
  the merger.

     2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the
  meeting or any postponements or adjournments thereof, including without
  limitation, potential postponements or adjournments for the purpose of
  soliciting additional proxies in order to approve the above proposal.

   CMC's board of directors has unanimously approved the merger and the merger
agreement, has declared their advisability and recommends that you vote FOR
approval and adoption of the merger and the merger agreement. We have described
the proposal in more detail in the accompanying joint proxy
statement/prospectus, which you should read in its entirety before voting. A
copy of the merger agreement is attached to the accompanying joint proxy
statement/prospectus as Annex A.

   Only stockholders of record at the close of business on June 21, 1999 are
entitled to notice of and to vote at the CMC special meeting and any
adjournments or postponements thereof. YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT. The
approval and adoption of the merger and the merger agreement will require the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of CMC common stock
outstanding on the record date and entitled to vote thereon.

   All shares represented by properly executed proxies will be voted in
accordance with the specifications on the proxy card. If no such specifications
are made, proxies will be voted FOR approval and adoption of the merger and the
merger agreement.

   All CMC stockholders are cordially invited to attend the CMC special meeting
in person. Whether or not you plan to attend the CMC special meeting, to ensure
your representation at the CMC special meeting, you are urged to complete, sign
and return the enclosed proxy card as promptly as possible in the enclosed
postage-prepaid envelope. You may revoke your proxy in the manner described in
the accompanying joint proxy statement/prospectus at any time before it has
been voted at the CMC special meeting. Any stockholder attending the special
meeting may vote in person even if he or she has returned a proxy.

                                          By Order of the CMC Board of
                                           Directors,

                                          Lanny Lambert
                                          Vice President and Secretary

Santa Clara, California
June 23, 1999
<PAGE>

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE ACT/CMC MERGER............................   1

SUMMARY...................................................................   3

SELECTED HISTORICAL AND SELECTED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL
 DATA.....................................................................   8
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA................................................  11
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE INFORMATION......................................  13
COMPARATIVE MARKET DATA...................................................  13

RISK FACTORS..............................................................  14

THE ACT SPECIAL MEETING...................................................  25
 Date, Time and Place of ACT Special Meeting..............................  25
 Purpose..................................................................  25
 Recommendation of ACT Board of Directors.................................  25
 Record Date and Outstanding Shares.......................................  25
 Vote Required............................................................  25
 Proxies..................................................................  26
 Revocability of Proxies..................................................  26
 Solicitation of Proxies; Expenses........................................  27

THE CMC SPECIAL MEETING...................................................  27
 Date, Time and Place of CMC Special Meeting..............................  27
 Purpose..................................................................  27
 Recommendation of CMC Board of Directors.................................  27
 Record Date and Outstanding Shares.......................................  27
 Vote Required............................................................  27
 Proxies..................................................................  28
 Revocability of Proxies..................................................  28
 Solicitation of Proxies; Expenses........................................  28

THE MERGER................................................................  30
 General..................................................................  30
 Background of the Merger.................................................  30
 Joint Reasons for the Merger.............................................  34
 ACT's Reasons for the Merger.............................................  35
 CMC's Reasons for the Merger.............................................  37
 Opinion of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown, Financial Advisor to ACT...........  38
 Opinion of BancBoston Robertson Stephens, Financial Advisor to CMC.......  44
 Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger...............................  50
 Accounting Treatment of the Merger.......................................  51
 Governmental and Regulatory Approvals....................................  51
 Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations..........................  52
 Ownership Interest of CMC Stockholders after the Merger..................  54
 Delisting of CMC Common Stock; Listing of ACT Common Stock...............  54
 Appraisal Rights.........................................................  54

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS................  54
THE MERGER AGREEMENT......................................................  56
 The Merger...............................................................  56
 Conversion of Securities.................................................  56
 Treatment of CMC Stock Options...........................................  56
 Exchange of Stock Certificates...........................................  57
 Representations and Warranties...........................................  58
 Certain Covenants........................................................  59
 Indemnification and Insurance............................................  62
 Affiliate Agreements.....................................................  62
</TABLE>

                                       i
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
 ACT's Board of Directors After the Merger................................   62
 Conditions to Obligations to Effect the Merger...........................   62
 Termination; Fees and Expenses...........................................   64
 Amendment and Waiver.....................................................   65
 Voting Agreements........................................................   65

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS..............   67

ADDITIONAL MATTERS BEING SUBMITTED TO A VOTE OF ACT STOCKHOLDERS..........   75

 ACT Proposal to Increase the Authorized Number of Shares of ACT Common
  Stock...................................................................   75

 ACT Proposal to Approve and Adopt an Amended and Restated 1995 Stock
  Plan....................................................................   76

ACT MANUFACTURING, INC....................................................   79

ACT BUSINESS..............................................................   79

ACT MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS....................................................   86

ACT QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK............   94

ACT CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS..................................................   94

ACT MANAGEMENT AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.................................   96

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF ACT.................................................  103

CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.......................................................  105

CMC BUSINESS..............................................................  105

CMC MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS....................................................  113

CMC QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK............  119

CMC CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS..................................................  119

CMC MANAGEMENT AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.................................  121

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CMC.................................................  125

DESCRIPTION OF ACT CAPITAL STOCK..........................................  126

DESCRIPTION OF CMC CAPITAL STOCK..........................................  126

COMPARISON OF CAPITAL STOCK...............................................  127

LEGAL MATTERS.............................................................  132

EXPERTS...................................................................  133

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.................................  133

STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS.....................................................  133

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS................................  F-1

REPORT OF DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP...........................................  F-2

REPORT OF PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP...................................... F-24
</TABLE>

                                       ii
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
ANNEX A--Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization dated as of May
         10, 1999, among ACT Manufacturing, Inc., East Acquisition Corp.
         and CMC Industries, Inc.......................................... A-1

ANNEX B--Opinion of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown............................. B-1

ANNEX C--Opinion of BancBoston Robertson Stephens Inc. ................... C-1

ANNEX D--EAST Voting Agreement............................................ D-1

ANNEX E--WEST Voting Agreement............................................ E-1

ANNEX F--Text of Amendment to Restated Articles of Organization of ACT
 Manufacturing, Inc....................................................... F-1

ANNEX G--Text of Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan..................... G-1
</TABLE>

                                      iii
<PAGE>

                          QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT
                               THE ACT/CMC MERGER


Q: Why are the two companies proposing to merge?

A: We believe that the resulting combination of the two companies will create a
   financially stronger, more competitive electronics manufacturing services
   company. As a combined company, we believe we will be able to:

    . achieve greater operational efficiencies;

    . provide expanded product and service offerings; and

    . have a broader geographic presence,

  resulting in greater revenue, earnings and market share growth potential
  than either company would have on its own.

Q: What will I receive in the merger?

A: If the merger is completed, you will receive 0.50 of a share of ACT common
   stock for each share of CMC stock you own. ACT will not issue fractional
   shares of common stock in the merger. You will receive cash based on the
   market price of ACT common stock instead of any fractional share.

ACT stockholders will continue to own their existing shares.

Q: When do you expect the merger to be completed?

A: We are working towards completing the merger as quickly as possible. If the
   merger is approved by ACT and CMC stockholders, we anticipate that the
   completion of the merger will occur on or about July 29, 1999, following
   satisfaction of all closing conditions.

Q: What do I do now?

A: We urge you to read this joint proxy statement/prospectus carefully,
   including its Annexes. You should mail your completed, signed and dated
   proxy card in the enclosed prepaid envelope as soon as possible to ensure
   that your shares will be represented at your special meeting. If your shares
   are held in "street name" by your broker, your broker will vote your shares
   only if you provide instructions on how to vote. You should follow the
   directions provided by your broker regarding how to instruct your broker to
   vote your shares. If you fail to give instructions to your broker on how to
   vote, your shares will not be voted at the special meeting and it will have
   the same effect as voting against approval of the merger and the merger
   agreement and certain of the other proposals. If you sign and send in your
   proxy and do not indicate how you want to vote, your proxy will be counted
   as a vote for the merger and the merger agreement and for the other
   proposals. The ACT meeting and the CMC meeting will take place on July 29,
   1999.

Q:  How do the ACT and CMC boards of directors recommend you vote your shares?

A: The boards of directors of both ACT and CMC have recommended that you vote
   in favor of the merger, the merger agreement and the other proposals, as
   applicable.

Q: Should I send in my certificates now?

A: No. After the merger is completed, CMC stockholders will receive written
   instructions for exchanging their CMC share certificates for ACT share
   certificates. CMC stockholders should not send in their share certificates
   at this time or with their proxies. ACT stockholders will not exchange their
   certificates.

Q: May I change my vote after I have mailed my signed proxy card?

A: Yes. You may change your vote at any time before your proxy is voted at your
   respective special meeting. You may do this in one of three ways. First, you
   may send a written notice stating that you would like to revoke your proxy.
   Second, you may complete and submit a new proxy card. Third, you may attend
   your respective special meeting and vote in person. Attendance at your
   special meeting, without voting in person, will not revoke your proxy.

                                       1
<PAGE>

Q: Who can help answer my questions?

A: If you are an ACT stockholder and would like additional copies of the joint
   proxy statement/prospectus or if you have more questions about the merger,
   including how to complete and return your proxy card, you should contact:

                                Jeffrey B. Lavin
                            ACT Manufacturing, Inc.
                                  2 Cabot Road
                                Hudson, MA 01749
                              Tel: (978) 567-4089

  If you are a CMC stockholder and would like additional copies of the joint
  proxy statement/prospectus or if you have more questions about the merger,
  including how to complete and return your proxy card, you should contact:

                                  Andrew Moley
                              CMC Industries, Inc.
                            4950 Patrick Henry Drive
                             Santa Clara, CA 95054
                            Tel: (408) 982-9999 x503

                                       2
<PAGE>


                                    SUMMARY

   This summary highlights selected information from this document and may not
contain all of the information that is important to you. To understand the
merger fully and for a more complete description of the legal terms of the
merger, you should read carefully this entire document and the documents
attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Annexes, including the
merger agreement, the voting agreements, and the fairness opinions of Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown and BancBoston Robertson Stephens. We have included page
references parenthetically to direct you to a more complete description of the
topics in this summary.

The Companies (Pages 79 and 105)

ACT Manufacturing, Inc.
2 Cabot Road
Hudson, Massachusetts 01749
(978) 567-4000

   ACT Manufacturing, Inc. provides value-added electronics manufacturing
services for original equipment manufacturers in the networking and
telecommunications, computer, industrial and medical equipment markets. ACT
provides original equipment manufacturers with complex printed circuit board
assembly, mechanical and molded cable and harness assembly, electro-mechanical
sub-assembly and total system assembly and integration. As an integral part of
its service, ACT also provides advanced manufacturing and test engineering,
flexible materials management, and comprehensive test services, as well as
product repair, packaging, order fulfillment and distribution services.

CMC Industries, Inc.
4950 Patrick Henry Drive
Santa Clara, California 95054
(408) 982-9999

   CMC Industries, Inc. provides electronics manufacturing services to a
diverse base of customers in the telecommunications and computer electronics
industries. CMC manufactures a wide range of products for its customers
including sophisticated telecommunications equipment, computer peripherals and
subassemblies and printed circuit board assemblies. CMC also provides full
systems integration assembly and test, materials procurement, distribution,
product design and engineering support services.

The Special Meetings; Votes Required (Pages 25 and 27)

 The ACT Special Meeting

   Purpose. ACT will hold a special meeting of its stockholders to:

  . approve a proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreement and the
    issuance of ACT common stock pursuant to the merger agreement;

  . approve a proposal to amend ACT's restated articles of organization to
    increase the authorized number of shares of ACT common stock to
    50,000,000; and

  . approve a proposal to adopt an Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan
    pursuant to which the aggregate number of shares of ACT common stock
    which may be issued under the plan shall be increased to 2,250,000.

   Who May Vote. If you were an ACT stockholder at the close of business on
June 21,
1999, then you are entitled to vote at the ACT special meeting and to cast one
vote for each share of ACT common stock you owned. On the record date, there
were 9,091,600 shares of ACT common stock entitled to be voted at the ACT
special meeting.

 Required Vote.

  . approval of the proposals to approve and adopt the merger agreement and
    the issuance of ACT common stock pursuant to the merger agreement and to
    amend ACT's restated articles of organization to increase the authorized
    number of shares of ACT common stock to 50,000,000 will each

                                       3
<PAGE>

   require an affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of
   ACT common stock outstanding as of the record date and entitled to vote
   thereon; and

  . approval of the proposal to approve and adopt an Amended and Restated
    1995 Stock Plan pursuant to which the aggregate number of shares of ACT
    common stock which may be issued under the plan shall be increased to
    2,250,000 will require the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority
    of the shares of ACT common stock casting a vote on such proposal at the
    ACT special meeting.

   Effect of Broker Nonvote and Abstention. A broker nonvote or a failure to
vote will have the effect of a vote against the proposals to approve and adopt
the merger agreement and the issuance of ACT common stock pursuant to the
merger agreement and to amend ACT's restated articles of organization. A broker
nonvote or a failure to vote will have no effect on the approval of the
proposal to approve and adopt the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan. An
abstention with respect to any of the ACT proposals will have the effect of a
vote against such proposal.

   Shares Held by Affiliates; Agreements to Vote. John A. Pino, the Chairman of
the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACT, together with certain
trusts for his benefit, who collectively beneficially held approximately 55% of
the outstanding ACT common stock on the record date, entered into voting
agreements whereby they agreed to vote all of their shares of ACT common stock
for the approval of the merger and the merger agreement and any matters that
could facilitate the merger. The form of voting agreement is attached as Annex
D to this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Accordingly, approval of the
proposals by the ACT stockholders is virtually assured.

 The CMC Special Meeting

   Purpose. CMC will hold a special meeting of its stockholders to approve the
merger and the merger agreement.

   Who May Vote. If you were a CMC stockholder at the close of business on June
21, 1999, then you are entitled to vote at the CMC special meeting and to cast
one vote for each share of CMC common stock you owned. On the record date,
there were 7,681,798 shares of CMC common stock entitled to be voted at the CMC
special meeting.

   Required Vote; Effect of Broker Nonvote and Abstention. Adoption of the
merger and the merger agreement will require the affirmative vote of the
holders of a majority of the shares of CMC common stock outstanding as of the
record date and entitled to vote thereon. A broker nonvote, a failure to vote
or an abstention will have the effect of a vote against the approval of the
merger and the merger agreement.

   Shares Held by Affiliates; Agreements to Vote. The directors and executive
officers of CMC, who collectively beneficially held approximately 29% of the
outstanding CMC common stock on the record date (excluding any shares issuable
upon the exercise of options), entered into voting agreements whereby they
agreed to vote all of their shares of CMC common stock for the approval of the
merger and the merger agreement and any matters that could facilitate the
merger. The form of voting agreement is attached as Annex E to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus.

The Merger (Page 30)

   As a result of the merger, CMC will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT.
The merger agreement is attached as Annex A to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. We encourage you to read the merger agreement in its
entirety as it is the legal document that governs the merger.

The Merger Consideration (Page 56)

   If the merger is completed, holders of CMC common stock will be entitled to
receive 0.50 of a share of ACT common stock for each share of CMC common stock
held at the effective time of the merger. Therefore, based on the closing price
of ACT common stock on June 21, 1999 of $12.56, each CMC share would be
exchanged for ACT common stock having a market value of $6.28 per share as a
result of the merger. ACT will pay cash in lieu of any fractional share of ACT
common stock to which a CMC stockholder would otherwise be entitled based on
the trading price of ACT common stock shortly before the merger.

                                       4
<PAGE>


   EXAMPLE: If you currently own 100 shares of CMC common stock, then, after
the merger, you will be entitled to receive 50 shares of ACT common stock.

   The number of shares of ACT common stock that will be issued for each share
of CMC common stock as a result of the merger is fixed. This number of shares
will not be adjusted as a result of changes in either ACT's or CMC's stock
price. As a result, the value of the shares CMC stockholders will receive in
the merger will not be known at the time you vote. Neither ACT nor CMC can
terminate the merger agreement due to changes in the other party's stock price.

Our Recommendations to Stockholders (Pages 25 and 27)

 To ACT Stockholders:

   The ACT board of directors voted unanimously to approve the merger, the
merger agreement and the other ACT proposals, has declared their advisability
and believes that the merger and each of the other ACT proposals is in your
best interest and unanimously recommends that you vote FOR each of proposals 1,
2 and 3.

 To CMC Stockholders:

   The CMC board of directors voted unanimously to approve the merger and the
merger agreement, has declared their advisability and believes that the merger
is in your best interest and unanimously recommends that you vote FOR the
proposal to approve the merger and the merger agreement.

Ownership of ACT Following the Merger (Page 54)

   Based on the shares of CMC common stock outstanding on the record date, CMC
stockholders will receive approximately 3.9 million shares of ACT common stock
in the merger, which will constitute approximately 30% of the outstanding
voting power of ACT following the merger.

Conditions to the Merger (Page 62)

   The completion of the merger depends upon satisfying a number of conditions,
including:

  . the approval of the merger agreement by the stockholders of each of ACT
    and CMC;

  . the absence of any law or any order or injunction that effectively
    prohibits the merger;

  . the approval of the listing of the shares of ACT common stock to be
    issued in the merger on the Nasdaq National Market;

  . the effectiveness of the Registration Statement on Form S-4;

  . the receipt of letters from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and Deloitte &
    Touche LLP which concur with management's conclusions that the merger
    qualifies for pooling of interests accounting treatment;

  . the receipt of legal opinions that the merger will constitute a
    reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code; and

  . the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-
    Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act.

   Further, the obligation of ACT to complete the merger is also conditioned
on, among other things:

  . the receipt by CMC of all material consents to the merger;

  . the absence of any new court or governmental proceeding or any order or
    injunction prohibiting or limiting either ACT's operation of CMC's
    business or ACT's exercise of all rights relating to CMC's assets after
    the merger, or seeking to force ACT to dispose of some or all of ACT's or
    CMC's business;

  . the continuing truth of CMC's representations and warranties and CMC
    materially performing its obligations under the merger agreement, subject
    to exceptions described in the merger agreement; and

  . no occurrence of an event having a material adverse effect on CMC.

   Further, the obligation of CMC to complete the merger is also conditioned
on, among other things:

  . the receipt by ACT of all material consents to the merger;

  . the continuing truth of ACT's representations and warranties and ACT
    materially

                                       5
<PAGE>

   performing its obligations under the merger agreement, subject to
   exceptions described in the merger agreement; and

  . no occurrence of an event having a material adverse effect on ACT.

   Any condition to the merger may be waived by the party entitled to assert
the condition.

Termination of the Merger Agreement and Termination Fees (Page 64)

   ACT and CMC can agree to terminate the merger agreement at any time without
completing the merger. In addition, either company can agree to terminate the
merger agreement without completing the merger, if any of the following occurs:

  . the merger is not completed by September 30, 1999;

  . the other party does not receive the required stockholder approvals at
    their special meeting;

  . a material adverse effect shall have occurred with respect to the other
    party and such material adverse effect is not cured during a certain
    period of time;

  . CMC accepts an acquisition proposal which the CMC board determines is
    more favorable than the merger or the CMC board recommends such an
    acquisition proposal to its stockholders;

  . any governmental entity or court prohibits completion of the merger;

  . the other party breaches the merger agreement such that certain closing
    conditions would not be satisfied and such breach is not cured during a
    certain period of time;

  . the board of directors of the other party withholds, withdraws, or
    modifies its recommendation of the merger or the merger agreement to its
    stockholders in a manner adverse to the terminating party; or

  . the other party fails to convene a special meeting of its stockholders on
    or before September 30, 1999.

   The merger agreement requires CMC to pay ACT a termination fee of $1.5
million if the merger agreement terminates under limited circumstances.

Interests of Executive Officers and Directors of CMC in the Merger (Page 50)

   In considering the recommendation of the CMC board, you should be aware of
the interests that certain executive officers and directors of CMC have in the
merger. These include:

  . accelerated vesting of stock options;

  . employment arrangements and severance agreements; and

  . indemnification and directors' and officers' liability insurance.

   In discussing the fairness of the merger to the stockholders of CMC, the CMC
board took into account these interests. These interests are different from,
and in addition to, your and their interests as stockholders. Certain executive
officers and directors have stock options that will, under the terms of CMC's
various employee benefit plans, become immediately exercisable as a result of
the merger. As of the record date, executive officers and directors of CMC held
stock options to purchase an aggregate of 162,594 shares of CMC common stock
which will become immediately exercisable as a result of the merger.

   CMC has entered into employment arrangements with Matthew G. Landa,
President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of CMC, and Andrew Moley,
Chief Financial Officer and a director of CMC, and an employment agreement with
Jack O'Rear, Chief Operating Officer of CMC, which may result in various
severance payments if they are terminated as a result of the merger or
otherwise.

   David S. Lee, the Chairman of the Board and largest stockholder of CMC, and
one other current non-employee CMC board member, will be appointed as members
of the ACT board of directors following the merger.

   ACT has also agreed to assume various indemnification obligations of CMC in
favor of current CMC officers and directors and to maintain directors' and
officers' liability insurance for the benefit of current CMC directors and
officers for six years following the merger.

   As of the record date, directors and executive officers of CMC and their
affiliates beneficially owned approximately 35.0% of the outstanding

                                       6
<PAGE>

shares of CMC common stock (including shares issuable upon the exercise of
options).

Opinions of Financial Advisors (Pages 38 and 44)

   In deciding to approve the merger and the merger agreement, our boards of
directors received opinions from our respective financial advisors as to the
fairness of the exchange ratio from a financial point of view. ACT received an
opinion from its financial advisor, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown, and CMC received
an opinion from its financial advisor, BancBoston Robertson Stephens. The full
text of these opinions are attached as Annexes B and C to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus and should be read carefully in their entirety. The
opinions of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown and BancBoston Robertson Stephens are
directed to the board of directors of ACT and CMC, respectively, and do not
constitute a recommendation to any stockholder with respect to matters relating
to the merger.

Accounting Treatment (Page 51)

   We expect the merger to qualify as a pooling of interests under generally
accepted accounting principles, which means that we will treat our companies as
if they had always been combined for accounting and financial reporting
purposes.

Material Federal Income Tax Considerations (Page 52)

   We have structured the merger so that no gain or loss generally will be
recognized by you for United States Federal income tax purposes on the exchange
of shares of CMC common stock for shares of ACT common stock.

   Tax matters are very complicated, and the tax consequences of the merger to
you will depend on the facts of your own situation. You should consult your tax
advisor for a full understanding of the tax consequences of the merger to you.

Certain Regulatory Matters (Page 51)

   To complete the merger, we must make filings and receive authorizations from
various federal and state governmental agencies in the United States. These
filings relate to antitrust matters and other regulations. We have submitted
the required filings. However, it is possible that some of these governmental
authorities may impose conditions for granting approval. We cannot predict
whether we will obtain all the required regulatory approvals within the time
frame contemplated by the merger agreement or without burdensome conditions.

Appraisal Rights (Page 54)

   Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, the holders of CMC common stock
are not entitled to any appraisal rights with respect to the merger because
shares of CMC common stock are, and shares of ACT common stock to be issued in
the merger will be, listed on the Nasdaq National Market.

                                       7
<PAGE>

  SELECTED HISTORICAL AND SELECTED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA

   We are providing the following selected financial information to aid you in
your analysis of the financial aspects of the merger. This information is only
a summary and you should read it in conjunction with the historical
consolidated financial statements and the unaudited pro forma condensed
combining financial statements, and related notes, that are included in this
joint proxy statement/prospectus. The results of operations for any interim
period are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year, and
historical results are not necessarily indicative of future results.

                   Selected Historical Financial Data of ACT

   The historical financial data for the annual periods presented below
relating to ACT are derived from ACT's audited consolidated financial
statements contained in the annual reports that we have filed with the SEC and,
for periods subsequent to 1995, included elsewhere in this document and should
be read in conjunction with that information. See the historical consolidated
financial statements of ACT starting on Page F-3. The selected historical
financial data for ACT for the three-month periods ended March 31, 1998 and
1999 are unaudited and were prepared on the same basis as the historical
financial information for the respective annual periods. In the opinion of
ACT's management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments, have been included for a fair presentation of results of
operations for such interim periods.

                      Selected Consolidated Financial Data
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         Three Months
                                                                             Ended
                                Fiscal Year Ended December 31,             March 31,
                          -------------------------------------------- ------------------
                           1994     1995     1996     1997      1998     1998      1999
                          ------- -------- -------- --------  -------- --------  --------
<S>                       <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>       <C>      <C>       <C>
Consolidated Statement
 of Operations Data:
Net sales...............  $85,848 $115,658 $225,900 $264,654  $290,529 $ 60,943  $ 81,190
Operating income (loss).    7,840    7,527   18,354   (3,530)    4,532   (1,045)    3,828
Net income (loss).......    6,954    5,771   10,157   (4,007)    1,282   (1,126)    1,866
Pro forma net income....  $ 4,353 $  4,466 $    --  $    --   $    --  $    --   $    --
Basic:
 Net income (loss) per
  common share..........  $  1.24 $   0.73 $   1.16 $  (0.45) $   0.14 $  (0.12) $   0.21
 Pro forma net income
  per common share......  $  0.70 $   0.55      --       --        --       --        --
 Weighted average shares
  outstanding...........    5,600    7,895    8,762    8,952     9,063    9,063     9,068
Diluted:
 Net income (loss) per
  common share..........  $  1.14 $   0.71 $   1.13 $  (0.45) $   0.14 $  (0.12) $   0.20
 Pro forma net income
  per common share......  $  0.65 $   0.54      --       --        --       --        --
 Weighted average shares
  outstanding...........    6,098    8,172    9,012    8,952     9,199    9,063     9,511

<CAPTION>
                                                                             As of
                                      As of December 31,                   March 31,
                          -------------------------------------------- ------------------
                           1994     1995     1996     1997      1998     1998      1999
                          ------- -------- -------- --------  -------- --------  --------
<S>                       <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>       <C>      <C>       <C>
Consolidated Balance
 Sheet Data:
Working capital.........  $14,646 $ 35,070 $ 71,091 $ 35,048  $ 70,175 $ 31,887  $ 72,934
Total assets............   33,618   61,095  107,595  113,539   145,369  119,841   160,666
Long-term debt, less
 current portion........   10,255    2,638   29,055      730    40,475      618    43,357
Total stockholders'
 equity.................  $ 7,355 $ 35,688 $ 47,132 $ 49,259  $ 50,234 $ 48,139  $ 52,536
</TABLE>

   ACT operated as an S corporation for income tax purposes from November 1,
1987 to March 28, 1995. Accordingly, during that period, ACT had not been
subject to federal income taxes and had been subject to certain state income
taxes at a reduced rate. Therefore, net income for the years ended December 31,
1994 and 1995 is presented on a pro forma basis as if ACT had been a C
corporation for the period presented.

                                       8
<PAGE>


   ACT's pro forma net income per common share for 1994 and 1995 reflects the
assumed issuance of 650,000 shares that ACT would have needed to issue at the
initial public offering price of ACT's common stock to fund the distribution of
all previously taxed but undistributed S Corporation earnings to ACT's
stockholders through March 28, 1995, approximately $7.8 million. The weighted
average shares outstanding for pro forma basic and diluted net income per share
were 6.3 million and 6.7 million, respectively, in 1994 and 8.1 million and 8.3
million, respectively, in 1995.

                   Selected Historical Financial Data of CMC

   The historical financial data for the annual periods presented below
relating to CMC are derived from CMC's audited consolidated financial
statements contained in the annual reports that we have filed with the SEC and,
for periods subsequent to 1995, included elsewhere in this document and should
be read in conjunction with that information. See the historical consolidated
financial statements of CMC starting on page F-25. The selected historical
financial data for CMC for the nine month periods ended April 30, 1998 and 1999
are unaudited and were prepared on the same basis as the historical financial
information for the respective annual periods. In the opinion of CMC's
management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments,
have been included for a fair presentation of results of operations for such
interim periods.

                      Selected Consolidated Financial Data
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Nine Months Ended
                                   Fiscal Year Ended July 31,              April 30,
                          -------------------------------------------- -----------------
                            1994     1995     1996     1997     1998     1998     1999
                          -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S>                       <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
Consolidated Statement
 of Operations Data:
Net sales...............  $163,779 $144,303 $164,711 $214,485 $301,955 $237,612 $206,991
Operating income (loss).     6,818      550    1,712    3,950    5,430    6,020   (2,901)
Net income (loss).......  $  3,376 $     40 $    105 $  1,606 $  2,531 $  3,099 $ (2,509)
Basic:
 Net income (loss) per
  common share..........  $   0.63 $   0.01 $   0.02 $   0.24 $   0.35 $   0.44 $  (0.33)
 Weighted average shares
  outstanding...........     5,348    6,087    6,235    6,757    7,205    7,104    7,606
Diluted:
 Net income (loss) per
  common share..........  $   0.60 $   0.01 $   0.02 $   0.22 $   0.34 $   0.41 $  (0.33)
 Weighted average shares
  outstanding...........     5,664    6,253    6,449    7,167    7,553    7,495    7,606

<CAPTION>
                                                                             As of
                                         As of July 31,                    April 30,
                          -------------------------------------------- -----------------
                            1994     1995     1996     1997     1998     1998     1999
                          -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S>                       <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
Consolidated Balance
 Sheet Data:
Working capital.........  $ 19,862 $ 21,739 $ 20,914 $ 20,635 $ 15,593 $ 22,423 $ 15,617
Total assets............    66,426   65,964   67,434   96,543   94,605  105,181   94,005
Long-term debt, less
 current portion........     5,545    6,341    6,261    4,390    2,268    3,122    4,547
Total stockholders'
 equity.................  $ 27,983 $ 28,338 $ 31,102 $ 34,844 $ 41,945 $ 42,305 $ 40,112
</TABLE>


                                       9
<PAGE>

              Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data

   We have provided summary unaudited financial data of ACT after giving
effect to the merger, which is referred to as "pro forma" information. You
should read this information in conjunction with, and such information is
qualified in its entirety by, the respective historical financial statements
and notes thereto of ACT and CMC included elsewhere in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. In presenting this summary unaudited pro forma combined
financial data, we treated our companies as if they had always been combined
for accounting and financial reporting purposes. This method is known as the
"pooling of interests" method of accounting. The operating data assumes that
the merger had been consummated at the beginning of the earliest period
presented. ACT prepares its financial statements on the basis of a fiscal year
ending on December 31. CMC prepares its financial statements on the basis of a
fiscal year ending on July 31. The table below combines ACT's audited results
of operations for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 with
CMC's audited results of operations for the fiscal years ended July 31, 1998,
1997 and 1996, respectively. The table also combines ACT's unaudited results
of operations for the three months ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 with CMC's
unaudited results of operations for the three months ended April 30, 1999 and
1998. CMC's net sales and net loss for the six months ended January 31, 1999,
excluded from the pro forma financial data, were $148.3 million and $1.9
million, respectively. The pro forma balance sheet data combines ACT's
unaudited balance sheet as of March 31, 1999 with CMC's unaudited balance
sheet as of April 30, 1999. We have prepared this information on a basis
consistent with the unaudited pro forma condensed combining financial
statements included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. You
should be aware that this summary unaudited pro forma information is presented
for illustrative purposes only and may not be indicative of the operating
results or financial position that would have occurred or that will occur
after the consummation of the merger.

   The unaudited pro forma combined net income (loss) applicable to common
shares excludes the following:

  . The positive effects of potential cost savings that we may achieve upon
    combining our resources;

  . Transaction costs of approximately $5.5 million, including investment
    banking, legal, accounting and printing fees related to the merger; and

  . Consolidation and integration expenses involved in combining our two
    companies.

   Unaudited pro forma combined net income (loss) per common share is based
upon the combined historical weighted average number of common shares
outstanding, after adjustments of CMC's historical number of shares, assuming
an exchange ratio of 0.50.

              Summary Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Data
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Three Months
                          Fiscal Year Ended December 31,      Ended March 31,
                          ---------------------------------- ------------------
                             1996       1997        1998       1998      1999
                          ----------------------  ---------- --------  --------
<S>                       <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>       <C>
Unaudited Pro Forma
 Combined Statement of
 Operations Data:
Net sales...............  $  390,611  $  479,139  $  592,484 $119,508  $139,867
Operating income (loss).      20,066         420       8,761      (68)    3,253
Net income (loss).......      10,262      (2,401)      3,092     (703)    1,330
Basic net income (loss)
 per common share.......  $     0.86  $    (0.19) $     0.24 $  (0.05) $   0.10
Diluted net income
 (loss) per common
 share..................  $     0.84  $    (0.19) $     0.24 $  (0.05) $   0.10
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....      11,880      12,330      12,665   12,783    12,897
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...      12,237      12,330      12,976   12,783    13,340

<CAPTION>
                            As of
                          March 31,
                             1999
                          -------------
<S>                       <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>       <C>
Unaudited Pro Forma
 Combined Balance Sheet
 Data:
Working capital.........  $   83,459
Total assets............     254,059
Long-term debt, less
 current portion........      49,268
Total stockholders'
 equity.................      86,536
</TABLE>

   The pro forma balance sheet has been adjusted to reflect the estimated non-
recurring costs of the merger, which are estimated at approximately $5.5
million. This estimate includes investment banking, legal, accounting and
printing fees related to the merger.

                                      10
<PAGE>

                           COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA

   The table below summarizes certain historical per share information of ACT
and CMC and per share data of the combined company on both an unaudited pro
forma combined basis and on a per share equivalent pro forma combined basis
after giving effect to the merger using the "pooling of interests" method of
accounting. We have calculated pro forma net income per share and book value
per share assuming that 0.50 of a share of ACT common stock is issued in
exchange for each share of CMC common stock outstanding. You should read this
information along with the selected historical financial data of ACT and CMC
included elsewhere in this document, the unaudited pro forma combined financial
data and the separate audited historical financial statements of ACT and CMC
and notes thereto, included elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
This information is qualified in its entirety by the respective historical
financial statements of ACT and CMC. We have presented the unaudited pro forma
combined financial data for illustrative purposes only. It is not necessarily
indicative of the operating results or financial position of the combined
company that would have occurred if the merger had been completed at the
beginning of the indicated periods or that will occur after the consummation of
the merger. You should not construe the unaudited pro forma combined financial
data presented below as representative of future operations. Neither ACT nor
CMC has paid cash dividends to the holders of their common stock (except, in
the case of ACT, for dividends paid to stockholders when the company was an S
corporation).

   ACT prepares its financial statements on the basis of a fiscal year ending
December 31, and CMC prepares its financial statements on the basis of a fiscal
year ending on July 31. The table below combines, for fiscal years ended 1996,
1997 and 1998, ACT's audited results of operations for each of the three years
ended December 31, 1998 with CMC's audited results of operations for each of
the three years ended July 31, 1998. The table also combines ACT's unaudited
results of operations for each of the three months ended March 31, 1998 and
1999 with CMC's unaudited results of operations for each of the three months
ended April 30, 1998 and 1999, respectively.

   We computed all basic net income (loss) per share data using the weighted
average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. We
computed all diluted net income (loss) per share data using the weighted
average number of shares of common stock outstanding and dilutive potential
common stock outstanding during the period. We based all book value per share
data upon the number of shares of common stock outstanding at the end of the
related period.

                                       11
<PAGE>


   The pro forma combined net income (loss) per common share and book value per
common share represent the pro forma combined net income (loss) and
stockholders' equity for ACT and CMC, including pro forma adjustments, divided
by the total pro forma common shares of the combined entity, assuming an
exchange ratio of 0.50. The CMC pro forma equivalent net income (loss) per
common share and book value per common share are computed by multiplying the
ACT pro forma combined per share amounts by the exchange ratio of 0.50.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Three Months
                                            Fiscal Year Ended       Ended
                                               December 31,       March 31,
                                            ------------------- --------------
                                            1996   1997   1998   1998    1999
                                            ----- ------  ----- ------  ------
   <S>                                      <C>   <C>     <C>   <C>     <C>
   Historical--ACT:
   Net income (loss) per common share:
     Basic................................. $1.16 $(0.45) $0.14 $(0.12) $ 0.21
     Diluted............................... $1.13 $(0.45) $0.14 $(0.12) $00.20
   Book value per common share.............               $5.55         $55.78
   Historical--CMC:
   Net income (loss) per common share:
     Basic................................. $0.02 $00.24  $0.35 $00.08  $(0.07)
     Diluted............................... $0.02 $00.22  $0.34 $00.08  $(0.07)
   Book value per common share.............               $5.58         $55.22
   Pro Forma Combined:
   Net income (loss) per common share:
     Basic................................. $0.86 $(0.19) $0.24 $(0.05) $00.10
     Diluted............................... $0.84 $(0.19) $0.24 $(0.05) $00.10
   Book value per common share.............               $7.19         $ 7.17
   CMC Pro Forma Equivalent:
   Net income (loss) per common share:
     Basic................................. $0.43 $(0.10) $0.12 $(0.03) $00.05
     Diluted............................... $0.42 $(0.10) $0.12 $(0.03) $00.05
   Book value per common share.............               $3.60         $ 3.58
</TABLE>

                                       12
<PAGE>

                      COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE INFORMATION

   ACT common stock is listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol
"ACTM." CMC common stock is listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the
symbol "CMCI." The following table sets forth the high and low bid information
for ACT common stock and CMC common stock for the calendar quarters indicated.
Such information reflects inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, markdown
or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           ACT          CMC
                                                      Common Stock  Common Stock
                                                      ------------- ------------
                                                       High   Low    High   Low
                                                      ------ ------ ------ -----
      <S>                                             <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>
      1997:
        First Quarter................................ $29.25 $18.25 $13.25 $8.75
        Second Quarter...............................  41.75  19.50   9.75  5.25
        Third Quarter................................  47.56  31.50  10.75  6.13
        Fourth Quarter...............................  33.75  12.38  14.06  5.75
      1998:
        First Quarter................................  18.06   9.50  11.50  5.88
        Second Quarter...............................  13.13   6.13  10.88  7.13
        Third Quarter................................  12.81   5.91   8.25  3.50
        Fourth Quarter...............................  14.75   5.06   7.63  2.75
      1999:
        First Quarter................................  19.13  12.88   6.56  3.75
        Second Quarter (through June 21, 1999).......  17.25  11.88   7.13  4.13
</TABLE>

   Neither ACT nor CMC paid cash dividends on its common stock during these
periods. We presently do not intend to declare cash dividends on our common
stock in the foreseeable future. Both of ACT's and CMC's credit facilities
prohibit the payment of cash dividends on its capital stock.

                            COMPARATIVE MARKET DATA

   The following table presents trading information for ACT common stock and
CMC common stock for May 7, 1999 and June 21, 1999. May 7, 1999 was the last
full trading day prior to the public announcement of the proposed merger. June
21, 1999 was the last practicable trading day for which information was
available prior to the date of the first mailing of this joint proxy
statement/prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        ACT Common Stock   CMC Common Stock
                                      -------------------- -----------------
                                       High   Low   Close  High   Low  Close
                                      ------ ------ ------ ----- ----- -----
<S>                                   <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>
May 7, 1999.......................... $15.19 $15.00 $15.13 $6.44 $5.63 $6.13
June 21, 1999........................ $12.56 $12.50 $12.56 $6.19 $6.13 $6.13
</TABLE>

   We urge you to obtain current market quotations for ACT common stock and CMC
common stock.


                                       13
<PAGE>

                                  RISK FACTORS

   The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act contains certain safe harbors
regarding forward-looking statements. From time to time, information provided
by us or statements made by our respective employees may contain "forward-
looking" information, which involve risks and uncertainties. Any statements in
this joint proxy statement/prospectus that are not statements of historical
fact are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements
concerning:

  . expectations regarding, and the potential effects of, the merger;

  . Year 2000 plans, expectations, compliance and cost;

  . the characteristics and growth of our markets and customers;

  . expectations, objectives and plans for future operations;

  . our ability to effectively manage the costs of the manufacturing
    processes and costs of our internal operations; and

  . our expected results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and
    capital resources.

   In addition to the other information included in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus, the following cautionary statements should be considered
carefully in evaluating our companies, our businesses and whether to vote to
approve the merger, the merger agreement and the other ACT proposals. The
factors discussed in these cautionary statements, among other factors, could
cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-
looking statements made in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and presented
elsewhere by our management from time to time. These cautionary statements are
being made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act and with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the safe harbor
provisions of such Act.

   You should consider the following risk factors in connection with a vote on
the merger, the merger agreement and the other proposals.

The value of the ACT shares to be received by CMC stockholders will fluctuate
with the ACT share price.

   The number of shares to be received by CMC stockholders in the merger is
fixed at 0.50 of a share of ACT common stock for each share of CMC common stock
outstanding at the effective time of the merger. This exchange ratio will not
change even if the market price of ACT common stock or CMC common stock changes
before the merger is completed. Accordingly, you will not know the actual
market value of ACT common stock to be received in connection with the merger
when you vote upon the merger and other proposals. We urge you to obtain
current market quotations for ACT common stock and CMC common stock. Stock
price variations could be the result of numerous factors, including:

  . changes in the business, operations or prospects of ACT, CMC or the
    combined company;

  . market assessments of the likelihood that the merger will be consummated
    and the timing thereof;

  . general market and economic conditions; and

  . other factors both within and beyond our control.

The expected benefits from the merger may not occur.

   We have entered into the merger agreement with the expectation that the
merger will result in certain benefits, including, without limitation:

  . cost savings related to redundant activities;

  . operating efficiencies;

  . revenue enhancements; and

  . other synergies.

                                       14
<PAGE>

   We cannot assure you that the combined company will realize any of the
anticipated benefits of the merger. Integrating our operations and personnel
will be a complex and difficult process and achieving the benefits of the
merger will depend in large part upon the successful integration of our
businesses in an efficient and timely manner. The diversion of the attention of
our management and any difficulties and related costs encountered in the
process of combining our companies could cause the disruption of, or a loss of
momentum in, the activities of the combined company. The inability to
successfully integrate the operations and personnel of our companies, or any
significant delay in achieving integration, could have a material adverse
effect on the business, financial condition and results of operations of the
combined company after the merger. Integration of the two companies and
operation of the combined company will result in significant costs as well as
demands on management personnel. The merger would have had a dilutive effect on
ACT's net income per share on a pro forma combined basis for recent periods.
See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combining Financial Statements" beginning on
page 67. We cannot assure you that the merger will become accretive to net
income at any point in the future or that the benefits derived by the combined
company in the merger will outweigh or exceed the dilutive effects of the
merger. For a discussion of other relevant factors and assumptions, see "The
Merger--Joint Reasons for the Merger," "--ACT's Reasons for the Merger," and
 "--CMC's Reasons for the Merger,"  beginning on page 34.

The merger may result in loss of customers, employees and suppliers.

   The announcement and completion of the merger could cause certain of our
customers to either seek alternative sources of product supply and service, or
delay or change orders for products or services due to uncertainty over the
integration of our companies. As a result, the combined company may experience
some customer attrition after the merger. For the same reason, the combined
company may also see certain suppliers ending their relationship with us.
Difficulties in combining operations, including the uncertainty related to
organizational changes, could also negatively affect employee morale and result
in the loss of key employees as a result of the merger. Any steps taken by us
to counter such increased customer, supplier and employee attrition may not be
effective. Failure by us to control attrition could have a material adverse
effect on the combined company's business, financial condition and results of
operations.

We expect substantial transaction, consolidation and integration costs related
to the merger.

   Whether or not the merger is consummated, we will have incurred substantial
expenses. We estimate that, if the merger is consummated, the combined company
will incur transaction costs of approximately $5.5 million, including
investment banking, legal, accounting and printing fees. We expect that we will
also incur significant consolidation and integration expenses which we cannot
accurately estimate at this time. We expect that the combined company will
charge the majority of these costs and expenses to operations in fiscal 1999.
The amount of the transaction costs is a preliminary estimate and is subject to
change. Actual transaction costs may substantially exceed our estimates and,
when combined with the expenses incurred in connection with the consolidation
and integration of our companies, could have an adverse effect on the business,
financial condition and operating results of the combined company. In addition,
if the merger agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, CMC may be
required to pay ACT a termination fee in an amount of $1.5 million. See "The
Merger Agreement--Termination; Fees and Expenses."

The merger may result in defaults under other agreements.

   Unless we obtain consents prior to the merger, consummation of the merger
may result in a default under one or more agreements applicable to us, dealing
with, among other things:

  . real property and equipment leases; and

  . bank agreements.


Such defaults may result in the combined company becoming liable for litigation
costs, settlement expenses or, possibly, contractual liabilities. The consents
necessary to avoid such liability may not be obtained and, if they are not
obtained, the consequences of such failure may be material to the combined
company.

                                       15
<PAGE>

ACT stockholders may have less influence following the merger.

   We estimate that there will be approximately 12.9 million shares of ACT
common stock outstanding upon consummation of the merger. The former ACT
stockholders will own an aggregate of approximately 70%, and the former CMC
stockholders will own an aggregate of approximately 30%, of the combined
company after the merger. Accordingly, the ACT stockholders may have less
influence over the management and policies of ACT after the merger than they
currently exercise.

John A. Pino will have significant influence after the merger.

   John A. Pino, ACT's Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive
Officer, and certain trusts for his benefit collectively beneficially own
approximately 55% of ACT's outstanding common stock as of the record date and
will beneficially own approximately 39% of the combined company's common stock
after the merger. As a result, Mr. Pino will be able to exert significant
influence over the combined company through his ability to influence the
election of directors and all other matters that require action by the combined
company's stockholders. The voting power of these stockholders under certain
circumstances could have the effect of preventing or delaying a change in
control of ACT.

   The following risk factors should be considered in connection with an
investment in the ACT common stock.

Our business is dependent on a small number of large customers.

   For the three months ended March 31, 1999, ACT's four largest customers
accounted for approximately 73% of ACT's net sales. Sales to customers
representing at least 10% of ACT's net sales for such period were as follows:

  . Nortel Networks (formerly Bay Networks and Aptis Communications)--29%;

  . Ascend Communications--23%; and

  . EMC Corporation--15%.

In fiscal 1998 and 1997, ACT's five largest customers accounted for
approximately 68% and 70%, respectively, of ACT's net sales.

   Likewise, in the nine months ended April 30, 1999, CMC's four largest
customers accounted for approximately 65% of CMC's consolidated net sales.
Sales to customers representing at least 10% of CMC's net sales for such period
were as follows:

  . Diamond Multimedia--30%;

  . Reltec Corporation--16%; and

  . Premisys Communications--11%.


In fiscal years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, CMC's four largest
customers accounted for approximately 56%, 61% and 63%, respectively, of CMC's
consolidated net sales. CMC's sales to Micron Electronics, with whom business
was discontinued in the second quarter of fiscal 1998, accounted for
approximately 24% and 21% of CMC's revenues for the fiscal years ended July 31,
1998 and July 31, 1997, respectively.

   While this customer concentration is expected to decrease as a result of the
merger, it is still a significant factor. The combined company's results may
depend to a significant extent on its ability to diversify its customer base to
reduce its reliance on particular customers. We cannot assure you that our
principal customers will continue to purchase products and services from the
combined company at current levels, if at all. Nor can we assure you that the
combined company will be able to consistently expand its customer base to make
up any

                                       16
<PAGE>

sales shortfalls from such major customers so as to increase overall revenue.
Any of the following could have a material adverse effect on the combined
company's business, financial condition and results of operations:

  . the loss of one or more major customer;

  . a significant reduction or delay in purchases from any major customer;

  . discontinuance by any major customer of products manufactured by the
    combined company;

  . a reduction in demand for the products of major customers that are
    manufactured by the combined company;

  . the failure to expand the combined company's customer base;

  . developments adverse to our customers or their products;

  . consolidation in our customers' markets; or

  . the inability or unwillingness of a major customer to pay for products
    and services on a timely basis or at all.

Our business is dependent on the electronics industry.

   Our customer bases have historically been concentrated in a limited number
of segments within the electronics industry. Net sales to customers within the
networking and telecommunications segment accounted for over 50% of ACT's net
sales in each of the first three months of 1999 and fiscal 1998 and 1997 and
over 50% of CMC's net sales in each of the first nine months of fiscal 1999 and
fiscal 1998 and 1997. These industry segments, and the electronics industry as
a whole, are subject to:

  . intense competition;

  . rapid technological changes;

  . significant fluctuations in product demand;

  . relatively short product life-cycles;

  . economic cycles, including recessionary periods;

  . consequent product obsolescence; and

  . consolidation.

Developments adverse to such industry segments could have a material adverse
effect on the combined company. Within the electronics industry, Year 2000
concerns may adversely affect demands or spending patterns for our customers'
products, thereby adversely affecting demand for our services. A recessionary
period or other event leading to excess capacity affecting the electronics
industry generally or one or more of the industry segments served by us would
likely result in intensified price competition, reduced gross margins and a
decrease in net sales. Any of such factors could have a material adverse effect
on the combined company's business, financial condition and results of
operations.

Our customers do not enter into long-term purchase orders or commitments.

   The level and timing of orders placed by our customers vary due to:

  . customer attempts to manage inventory;

  . changes in the customers' manufacturing strategy; and

  . variation in demand for customer products.

   We generally do not obtain long-term purchase orders or commitments from our
customers. We work with our customers to anticipate delivery dates and future
volume of orders based on customer forecasts. We rely on our estimates of
anticipated future volumes when making commitments regarding:

  . the levels of business that we will seek and accept;

  . the timing of production schedules;

  . the purchase of inventory; and

  . the levels and utilization of personnel and other resources.


                                       17
<PAGE>

Customers may cancel, reduce or delay orders that were either previously made
or anticipated for a variety of reasons. Significant or numerous cancellations,
reductions or delays in orders by a customer could have a material adverse
effect on the combined company's business, financial condition and results of
operations. From time to time, we will purchase certain components without a
customer commitment to pay for them. We may source components for product
assemblies based on customer forecasts. However, our policy is that customers
are responsible for materials and associated acquisition costs in the event of
a significant reduction, delay or cancellation of orders from the forecasted
amounts. A customer's unwillingness or inability to reimburse us for materials
costs in the case of a significant variance from forecast could have a material
adverse effect on the combined company's business, financial condition and
results of operations.

We anticipate that our net sales and operating results will fluctuate.

   Our operating results have varied and may continue to fluctuate
significantly from quarter to quarter. A substantial portion of net sales in a
given quarter may depend on obtaining and fulfilling orders for assemblies to
be manufactured and shipped in the same quarter in which those orders are
received. Further, a significant portion of net sales in a given quarter may
depend on assemblies configured, completed, packaged and shipped in the final
weeks of such quarter. In addition to the variability resulting from the short-
term nature of our customers' commitments, the following factors may contribute
to such fluctuations:

  . the level and timing of customer orders;

  . shipment delays;

  . customers' announcements and introduction of new products or new
    generations of products;

  . evolutions in the life cycles of customers' products;

  . timing of expenditures in anticipation of future orders;

  . cost effectiveness in managing manufacturing processes;

  . changes in cost and availability of labor and components;

  . inefficiencies in managing inventory and fixed assets;

  . capacity utilization;

  . inventory obsolescence;

  . interruptions in manufacturing;

  . increased expenses, whether related to sales and marketing,
    administration or otherwise;

  . accounts receivable or bad debt write-offs;

  . acquisitions and related charges and expenses;

  . competition in the electronics manufacturing services market;

  . trends in the electronics industry; and

  . changes or anticipated changes in economic conditions.

Because our operating expenses are based on anticipated revenue levels and a
high percentage of our operating expenses are relatively fixed in the short
term, any unanticipated shortfall in revenue in a quarter may have a material
adverse effect on the combined company's business, financial condition and
results of operations for that quarter. Also, any significant shift in our
product assembly mix is likely to cause our margins to fluctuate and could have
a material adverse impact on the combined company's results of operations for
that period. Results of operations in any period should not be considered
indicative of the results to be expected for any future period. It is likely
that in some future period the combined company's results of operations will
fail to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors, and the
price of the combined company's common stock could decline significantly.

                                       18
<PAGE>

We will face intense competition.

   The electronics manufacturing services industry is highly competitive. We
compete against numerous U.S. and foreign electronics manufacturing services
providers with global operations. We also face competition from a number of
electronics manufacturing services providers who operate on a local or regional
basis. In addition, current and prospective customers continually evaluate the
merits of manufacturing products internally. Consolidation in the electronics
manufacturing services industry results in a continually changing competitive
landscape. The consolidation trend in the industry also results in larger and
more geographically diverse competitors who have significant combined resources
with which to compete against us. Certain of our competitors have substantially
greater managerial, manufacturing, financial, systems, sales and marketing
resources than either of us individually or as a combined company. These
competitors:

  . may have the ability to respond more quickly to new or emerging
    technologies;

  . may have greater name recognition, critical mass and market presence;

  . may have a greater ability to take advantage of acquisition
    opportunities;

  . may adapt more quickly to changes in customer requirements; and

  . may devote greater resources to the development, promotion and sale of
    their services than the combined company.

We may be operating at a cost disadvantage compared to manufacturers who have
greater direct buying power from component suppliers, distributors and raw
material suppliers or who have lower cost structures. Our manufacturing
processes are generally not subject to significant proprietary protection, and
companies with greater resources or a greater geographic presence may enter the
market. Increased competition from existing or potential competitors could
result in price reductions, reduced margins or loss of market share. Each such
result could have a material adverse effect on the combined company's business,
financial condition and results of operations.

We will be dependent on a limited number of suppliers for certain components.

   We rely on a single or limited number of third-party suppliers for many
proprietary components used in the assembly process. We do not have any long-
term supply agreements. Shortages of certain electronic components have
occurred from time to time. Moreover, the consolidating nature of our
suppliers' industry results in changes in supply relationships, component
price, availability and quality. Due to our utilization of just-in-time
inventory techniques, the timely availability of many components is dependent
on our ability to both continuously develop accurate forecasts of customer
volume requirements and manage the materials supply chain. Component shortages
could result in manufacturing and shipping delays or increased component
prices. Our inability to obtain key components on a timely basis could
materially and adversely affect the combined company's business, financial
condition and results of operations.

Our products may contain design or manufacturing defects.

   The products we manufacture for customers to their specifications are highly
complex and may at times contain design or manufacturing errors or failures.
Such defects have been discovered in the past. Despite our quality control and
quality assurance efforts, such defects may occur in the future. Defects in the
products we manufacture, whether caused by a design, manufacturing or component
failure or error, may result in delayed shipments to customers or reduced or
cancelled customer orders. If such defects occur in large quantities or too
frequently, our business reputation may also be impaired. In addition, any of
such defects may result in liability claims against us. Any of such results
could have a material adverse effect on the combined company's business,
financial condition and operating results.

Our operating results will depend on our ability to manage our growth.

   We have grown rapidly in recent years and we expect to continue to expand
our operations. Such growth has placed, and will continue to place, significant
strain on our management, operations, technical, financial,

                                       19
<PAGE>

systems, sales, marketing and other resources. We will have to continue to
invest in both our manufacturing infrastructure to expand capacity and our
operational, financial and management information systems. We will also have to
develop further the management skills of our managers and supervisors. As a
result of an inventory shortfall of ACT occurring in the fourth quarter of
1997, ACT has reviewed and continues to review its security procedures and
operating and financial controls. Based upon such review, ACT has implemented
enhanced security systems and inventory work-in-process tracking systems and
expects to continue to identify opportunities to implement enhanced procedures
and controls. ACT has also implemented various cost management programs to
enhance its profitability. Such programs implemented by management may not
result in the anticipated cost savings, however. If we fail to manage our
expected growth effectively, the quality of our services and products and our
results of operations could suffer significantly.

We will be subject to risks normally associated with international operations
because of our expected operations outside the U.S.

   ACT acquired in 1997, and then subsequently expanded in 1998, operations in
Dublin, Ireland. CMC began operations in Hermosillo, Mexico in 1998 and opened
a procurement office in Taiwan in 1998. We may in the future expand into other
geographic regions. We have limited experience in managing geographically
dispersed operations and in operating in Europe, Mexico or Asia. We also
purchase a significant number of components manufactured in foreign countries.
Because of the scope of our international operations, we are subject to
numerous risks, including:

  . economic or political instability;

  . transportation delays and interruptions;

  . foreign exchange rate fluctuations;

  . employee turnover and labor unrest;

  . longer payment cycles;

  . greater difficulty in collecting accounts receivable;

  . utilization of different systems and equipment;

  . difficulties in staffing and managing foreign personnel and diverse
    cultures; and

  . less developed infrastructures.

Any of these risks could have a material adverse effect on the combined
company's business, financial condition and results of operations. Changes in
policies by the U.S. or foreign governments could also result in, among other
things:

  . increased duties;

  . increased regulatory requirements;

  . higher taxation;

  . currency conversion limitations;

  . restrictions on the transfer of funds;

  . the imposition or increase of tariffs; or

  . limitations on imports or exports.

These policy changes could have a material adverse effect on the combined
company's business, financial condition and results of operations. Also the
combined company could be adversely affected if the current policies
encouraging foreign investment or foreign trade by its host countries were to
be reversed.

We may need to make additional acquisitions.

   In light of the consolidation trend in our industry, we may at some time in
the future acquire additional electronics manufacturing services providers,
facilities, assets or businesses. We may compete for acquisition

                                       20
<PAGE>

opportunities with entities having significantly greater resources than the
combined company. As a result, we may not succeed in acquiring certain
companies, businesses, facilities or assets that we seek to acquire. Failures
to consummate additional acquisitions may prevent us from accumulating
sufficient critical mass required by customers in such a consolidating
industry. Such a failure could have a material adverse effect on the combined
company's ability to compete and therefore on its business, financial condition
and results of operations.

Moreover, acquisitions that we do complete may result in:

  . the potentially dilutive issuance of equity securities;

  . the incurrence of debt and amortization expenses related to goodwill and
    other intangible assets; and

  . the incurrence of significant costs and expenses.

All of these factors could materially and adversely affect the combined
company's business, financial condition and results of operations following
such a transaction. Such transactions also involve numerous business risks,
including:

  . difficulties in the assimilation of the operations, technologies,
    personnel and products of the acquired companies;

  . the diversion of management's attention from other business concerns;

  . the potential disruption of our business; and

  . the potential loss of key employees from such a combined company.

If we are not able to successfully integrate the key employees and businesses
of acquired companies, or any acquired facilities or assets, the business,
financial condition and results of operations of the combined company may be
adversely effected.

We may expand our operations.

   We may expand our operations by establishing new manufacturing facilities or
by expanding current capacity. We may expand both in geographical areas in
which we currently operate or in new geographical areas within the United
States and internationally. Expansion of operations involves numerous business
risks, including:

  . the potential inability to successfully integrate additional facilities
    or capacity and to realize anticipated synergies, economies of scale or
    other value;

  . difficulties in the timing of such expansions, including delays in the
    implementation of construction and manufacturing plans;

  . the diversion of management's attention from other business areas during
    the planning and implementation of expansions;

  . the strain placed on our operational, financial, management, technical
    and information systems and resources;

  . the incurrence of significant costs and expenses;

  . the potential that we will not be able to locate enough customers or
    employees to support the expansion; and

  . various other difficulties associated with starting operations in a new
    geographic area.

The combined company's business, financial condition and results of operations
could be adversely effected if such expansion and new facilities do not achieve
growth sufficient to offset the increased expenditures associated with such
expansions. Thus, we cannot assure you that:

  . we will be able to successfully integrate or manage any expanded
    operations;

  . such expansion will contribute positively to our results of operations;
    or

  . we will not be adversely affected by such expansion.

                                       21
<PAGE>

We may need additional financing.

   Our future success may be dependent on our ability to obtain additional
financing and capital to support our continued growth and operations. We may
seek to raise such capital by:

  . issuing additional equity securities;

  . issuing debt securities;

  . obtaining additional lease financings;

  . increasing our lines of credit; or

  . obtaining off-balance sheet financing.

We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain such additional capital
when we want or need it, or that it will be available on terms which are
satisfactory and in the best interests of the combined company. If we issue
additional equity securities or convertible debt to raise capital, it will be
dilutive to your ownership interest in the combined company. Furthermore, if we
are able to raise such additional capital, it may adversely effect the combined
company as a result of the terms and conditions associated with such additional
capital.

We are dependent upon our key personnel and skilled employees.

   Our future success will be largely dependent upon the skills and efforts of
John A. Pino, ACT's President and Chief Executive Officer, and the combined
company's other key executives as well as its managerial, sales and technical
employees. With the exception of Jack O'Rear, CMC's current Vice President and
Chief Operating Officer, and a small number of CMC's sales people, none of the
senior management or other key employees of the combined company is currently
subject to any employment contract or noncompetition agreement. We do not plan
to maintain any key-man life insurance on any of our key executives. The loss
of services of any of our executives or other key personnel, as a result of the
merger or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on the combined
company's business, financial condition and results of operations. Continued
growth of the combined company will also require that it attract, motivate and
retain additional skilled and experienced managerial, sales and technical
personnel. Competition for such personnel is intense. The combined company will
also have to continue to train and develop the skills of such personnel. The
combined company may not be able to attract, motivate and retain personnel with
the skills and experience needed to successfully manage our business and
operations.

We are subject to risks relating to Year 2000 problems.

   We are subject to various Year 2000 risks, relating to our internal systems,
the systems of our key customers and suppliers and the potential decrease in
demand for our customers' products. Many computer software programs, operating
systems and technology in use today is unable to distinguish between the year
2000 and the year 1900 because they use a two-digit shorthand to define the
applicable year. This is commonly known as the Year 2000 problem. If we do not
properly identify and correct our Year 2000 issues prior to January 1, 2000,
our operations could be materially disrupted due to our inability to do the
following using current processes and systems:

  . receive technical specifications, purchase orders and payments from
    customers;

  . order, receive, record and pay for inventory;

  . manufacture and ship products;

  . send invoices; and

  . process internal and external transactions.

We have undertaken an extensive project to assess and remedy the areas within
our businesses and operations which could be adversely affected by Year 2000
issues. Additionally, we are working with our vendors, third party service
providers and customers to identify any possible issues, including testing
interfaces and

                                       22
<PAGE>

performing site audits of their software programs and operating systems, which
could affect us. Our reliance on our vendors, third party service providers and
customers is substantial. Their failure to address Year 2000 issues could have
a material adverse effect on us. If any of the following occur, our normal
business activities and operations could be interrupted:

  . we fail to either identify or correct a material Year 2000 problem;

  . our suppliers, third party service providers or customers experience Year
    2000 problems; or

  . demand for our customers' products is reduced due to changing purchasing
    patterns in their markets caused by Year 2000 concerns.

Such interruptions could materially and adversely affect the combined company's
business, results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.

Our markets are subject to rapid technological change and process development.

   The markets for our manufacturing services are characterized by rapidly
changing technology and evolving process development. The continued success of
our business will depend in large part upon our ability to:

  . maintain and enhance our technological capabilities;

  . develop and market manufacturing services which meet changing customer
    needs; and

  . successfully anticipate or respond to technological changes in
    manufacturing processes on a cost-effective and timely basis.

   Although we believe that our operations utilize the assembly and testing
technologies and equipment currently required by our customers, our process
development efforts may not be successful. Also, the emergence of new
technologies, industry standards or customer requirements may render our
equipment, inventory or processes obsolete or noncompetitive. In addition, to
remain competitive we may have to acquire new assembly and testing technologies
and equipment. The acquisition and implementation of such technologies and
equipment may require significant expense or capital investment. Our failure to
anticipate and adapt to our customer's changing needs and requirements will
have a material adverse effect on the combined company's business, results of
operations and financial condition.

We may be subject to certain risks related to litigation.

   On February 27, 1998, ACT and certain of ACT's officers and directors were
named as defendants in a purported securities class action lawsuit filed in the
United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The plaintiffs
amended the complaint on October 16, 1998. The plaintiffs purport to represent
a class of all persons who purchased ACT's common stock in the period from
April 17, 1997 through March 31, 1998. The amended complaint alleges, among
other things, that the defendants knowingly made misstatements to the investing
public about the value of ACT's inventory and nature of its accounting
practices. On December 15, 1998, ACT filed a motion to dismiss the case in its
entirety based on the pleadings. The court granted ACT's motion to dismiss
without prejudice on May 27, 1999. The plaintiffs have until on or about July
1, 1999 to appeal the court's order of dismissal. ACT believes that claims
asserted in the amended complaint are without merit and intends to continue to
defend itself vigorously in this action if an appeal is filed.

   From time to time, we are also subject to claims or litigation incidental to
our business.

We are subject to certain risks related to compliance with environmental
regulations.

   We are subject to a variety of environmental regulations relating to the
use, storage, discharge, site cleanup, and disposal of hazardous chemicals used
during our manufacturing processes. If we fail to comply

                                       23
<PAGE>

with present and future regulations, or are required to perform site
remediation, we could be subject to future liabilities or the suspension of
production. Such regulations could also:

  . restrict our ability to expand our facilities;

  . require us to acquire costly equipment; or

  . require us to incur other significant expenses,

to comply with environmental regulations.

We will be subject to risks arising from our relationship with Cortelco.

   CMC has had numerous transactions with its former affiliate and current
customer, Cortelco Systems Holding Corp. David S. Lee, a current director of
CMC, also serves as a director of Cortelco. Mr. Lee is also the largest
stockholder of each of CMC and Cortelco and will beneficially own after the
merger approximately 5.7% of the combined company. Transactions between CMC and
Cortelco include the transfer of certain assets and related liabilities
associated with the telephone business to Cortelco in exchange for 1,000,000
shares of preferred stock of Cortelco in August 1993 and the execution of an
agreement to provide certain products and related support services to customers
of Cortelco.

   In March 1999, CMC consented to a restructuring of certain assets of
Cortelco. In connection with this restructuring, Cortelco distributed common
stock of Cortelco Systems, Inc. to its stockholders on a pro rata basis.
Pursuant to this distribution, CMC and Cortelco entered into a Stock
Distribution Agreement and CMC received its pro rata share which was equal to
6,125,302 shares of common stock of Cortelco Systems, Inc. CMC also entered
into a Stock Purchase Agreement with Mr. Lee under which, through a series of
"put" and "call" rights, Mr. Lee effectively guarantees CMC's right to receive
not less than approximately $5.9 million in respect of the common stock of
Cortelco Systems, Inc. and the preferred stock of Cortelco by May 2002. In
consideration for the receipt of Mr. Lee's guarantee, CMC consented to an
amendment to Cortelco's Certificate of Incorporation which, among other things,
delays the dates on which the preferred stock may be tendered for redemption by
CMC.

   Furthermore, Cortelco's wholly-owned subsidiary, Cortelco Puerto Rico,
merged into Cortelco Systems, Inc. in connection with the above identified
distribution. Cortelco Systems, Inc. merged with BCS Technologies, Inc., with
Cortelco Systems, Inc. being the surviving entity. Finally, Cortelco Systems,
Inc. filed a Form S-1 in April 1999 and currently intends to complete an
initial public offering later this year. CMC intends to be a selling
shareholder of shares of common stock in Cortelco Systems, Inc.'s initial
public offering. We cannot assure you that such sale will occur or what the
proceeds will be from such sales, if any.

   Historically, Cortelco has not been as current as other customers in making
payments on its trade accounts with CMC. In July 1998, CMC converted certain
older accounts receivable from Cortelco totaling $2.0 million into a note
receivable. Under the terms of the note, Cortelco has agreed to pay the balance
over a three-year term with monthly payments of $50,000, plus interest and a
final installment of $200,000 due at the end of the three-year period. Interest
accrues on the note at a rate of 9.0% per annum. As of April 30, 1999, Cortelco
had made all payments required at that date under the terms of the note. CMC
continues to provide credit for manufacturing services sold to Cortelco in the
form of trade receivables, and as of April 30, 1999, had approximately $4.1
million in trade receivables from Cortelco. Cortelco's payments on its trade
accounts with CMC have in the past been late, and such payments or payments on
the note may not in the future be made on a timely basis, if at all.

                                       24
<PAGE>

                            THE ACT SPECIAL MEETING

Date, Time and Place of ACT Special Meeting

   This document is being furnished to the holders of ACT common stock in
connection with the solicitation of proxies by the ACT board for use at the ACT
special meeting to be held at Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, 125 High Street,
High Street Tower, Boston, Massachusetts, in Conference Room 22B, on July 29,
1999 at 11:00 a.m., Massachusetts time, and at any and all adjournments or
postponements of the ACT special meeting.

Purpose

   The purpose of the ACT special meeting is to consider and vote upon the
following proposals:

  Proposal 1--approval and adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger and
              Reorganization dated as of May 10, 1999, among ACT, East
              Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned
              subsidiary of ACT, and CMC, and the issuance of shares of ACT
              common stock pursuant to such merger agreement;

  Proposal 2--approval of an amendment to the Restated Articles of
              Organization of ACT to increase the number of authorized shares
              of ACT common stock from 30,000,000 to 50,000,000 shares, $.01
              par value per share, subject to and upon completion of the
              merger;

  Proposal 3--approval and adoption of an Amended and Restated 1995 Stock
              Plan pursuant to which the aggregate number of shares which may
              be issued thereto shall be increased from 1,250,000 to
              2,250,000; and

  Proposal 4--such other business as may properly come before the meeting or
              any postponements or adjournments thereof, including without
              limitation, potential postponements or adjournments for the
              purpose of soliciting additional proxies in order to approve
              any of the above proposals.

Recommendation of ACT Board of Directors

   The ACT board of directors has unanimously approved the merger, the merger
agreement, and the other ACT proposals, has declared their advisability and has
determined that the merger and each of the other proposals is in the best
interests of ACT and its stockholders. After careful consideration, ACT's board
of directors unanimously recommends that holders of ACT common stock vote in
favor of Proposals 1, 2 and 3.

Record Date and Outstanding Shares

   The ACT board has fixed the close of business on June 21, 1999 as the record
date for the ACT special meeting. Only ACT stockholders of record at the close
of business on the record date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the ACT
special meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof. As of the record
date, there were approximately 44 stockholders of record and 9,091,600 shares
of ACT common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. On or about July 1, 1999,
a notice of the special meeting of ACT was mailed to all ACT stockholders of
record as of the record date.

Vote Required

   Under Massachusetts law and ACT's Restated Articles of Organization, the
following vote is required to approve each proposal:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
      Proposal Vote Required to Approve
      -------- ------------------------
      <C>      <S>
      1 and 2  affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the ACT common
               stock outstanding as of the ACT record date and entitled to vote
               thereon

             3 affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of
               ACT common stock casting a vote (in person or by proxy) at the
               special meeting on such proposal
</TABLE>


                                       25
<PAGE>

   The presence, in person or by properly executed proxy, of the holders of a
majority of the outstanding shares of ACT common stock entitled to vote at the
ACT special meeting shall constitute a quorum at the meeting. Each stockholder
of record of ACT on the record date is entitled to cast one vote per share
owned on the record date, exercisable in person or by properly executed proxy,
on each matter properly submitted for the vote of the stockholders of ACT at
the ACT special meeting. A broker nonvote, which occurs when a nominee holding
shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a proposal because the nominee
does not have discretionary voting power and has not received instructions from
the beneficial owner, or a failure to vote will have the effect of a vote
against proposals 1 and 2, but will have no effect on the approval of proposal
3. An abstention with respect to any of the proposals will have the effect of a
vote against such proposal.

   John A. Pino, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
of ACT, and certain trusts for his benefit, have each executed a voting
agreement, in the form attached as Annex D to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus, with CMC whereby they have agreed to vote an aggregate of
5,020,722 shares of ACT common stock, representing approximately 55% of the ACT
common stock outstanding on the record date, in favor of the approval of the
merger, the merger agreement and any matters that could facilitate the merger,
and against approval of any proposal made in opposition or competition with the
completion of the merger. See "The Merger Agreement--Voting Agreements."

Proxies

   John A. Pino and Jeffrey B. Lavin, each of whom has been named as proxies in
the proxy, are executive officers of ACT. All shares of ACT common stock that
are entitled to vote and are represented at the ACT special meeting by properly
executed proxies received prior to or at the ACT special meeting, and not duly
and timely revoked, will be voted at the ACT special meeting in accordance with
the instructions indicated on such proxies. If no such instructions are
indicated, these proxies will be voted FOR approval of all of the ACT
proposals.

   To the knowledge of ACT's board, there are no other matters to be presented
at the ACT special meeting. If any other matters are properly presented for
consideration at the ACT special meeting, or any adjournments or postponements
thereof, including consideration of a motion to adjourn or postpone the ACT
special meeting to another time or place for the purposes of soliciting
additional proxies, John A. Pino and Jeffrey B. Lavin will have the discretion
to vote on such matters in accordance with their best judgment.

Revocability of Proxies

   Any proxy given pursuant to this solicitation may be revoked by the person
giving it at any time before it is voted. Proxies may be revoked by:

  . filing with the Clerk of ACT, at or before the taking of the vote at the
    ACT special meeting, a written notice of revocation bearing a later date
    than the proxy;

  . duly executing a later-dated proxy relating to the same shares and
    delivering it to the Clerk of ACT before the taking of the vote at the
    ACT special meeting; or

  . attending the ACT special meeting and voting in person, although
    attendance at the special meeting will not in and of itself constitute a
    revocation of a proxy.

   Any written notice of revocation or subsequent proxy should be sent to ACT
Manufacturing, Inc., 2 Cabot Road, Hudson, MA 01749, Attention: Jeffrey B.
Lavin, or hand-delivered to the Clerk of ACT at or before the taking of the
vote at the ACT special meeting. Stockholders that have instructed a broker to
vote their shares must follow directions received from such broker in order to
change their vote or to vote at the ACT special meeting.

                                       26
<PAGE>

Solicitation of Proxies; Expenses

   All expenses of ACT's solicitation of proxies, including the cost of
preparing and mailing this joint proxy statement/prospectus to ACT
stockholders, will be borne by ACT. In addition to solicitation by use of the
mails, proxies may be solicited from ACT stockholders by certain ACT directors,
officers and employees in person or by telephone or other means of
communication. No such person will receive additional compensation in
connection with any solicitation other than for reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses. Arrangements will also be made with brokerage houses, custodians,
nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of proxy solicitation materials to
beneficial owners of shares held of record by such brokerage houses,
custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, and ACT will reimburse such brokerage
houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their reasonable expenses
incurred in forwarding such materials.

                            THE CMC SPECIAL MEETING

Date, Time and Place of CMC Special Meeting

   This document is being furnished to the holders of CMC common stock in
connection with the special meeting of CMC stockholders to be held on July 29,
1999, at CMC Industries, Inc., 4950 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara,
California, commencing at 8:00 a.m., California time, and at any and all
adjournments or postponements of the CMC special meeting.

Purpose

   The purpose of the CMC special meeting is to consider and vote upon the
approval of the merger and the merger agreement and such other matters as may
be properly brought before the CMC special meeting, or any adjournment or
postponement thereof, including without limitation, potential postponements or
adjournments for the purpose of soliciting additional proxies in order to
approve the merger and the merger agreement.

Recommendation of CMC Board of Directors

   The CMC board of directors has unanimously approved the merger and the
merger agreement, has declared their advisability and has determined that the
merger is in the best interests of CMC and its stockholders. After careful
consideration, CMC's board of directors unanimously recommends that holders of
CMC common stock vote in favor of the adoption of the merger and the merger
agreement.

Record Date and Outstanding Shares

   The CMC board has fixed the close of business on June 21, 1999 as the record
date for the CMC special meeting. Only CMC stockholders of record at the close
of business on the record date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the CMC
special meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof. As of the record
date, there were approximately 189 stockholders of record and 7,681,798 shares
of CMC common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. On or about July 1, 1999,
a notice of the special meeting of CMC was mailed to all CMC stockholders of
record as of the record date.

Vote Required

   Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, the adoption of the merger and
the merger agreement will require the affirmative vote of a majority of the
shares of CMC common stock issued and outstanding as of the record date and
entitled to vote thereon. The presence, in person or by properly executed
proxy, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of CMC common
stock entitled to vote at the CMC special meeting shall constitute a quorum at
such meeting. Each stockholder of record of CMC on the record date is entitled
to cast one vote per share owned on the record date, exercisable in person or
by properly executed proxy, on each matter properly submitted for the vote of
the stockholders of CMC at the CMC special meeting. A broker nonvote, which
occurs when a nominee holding shares for a beneficial owner does not vote on a
proposal

                                       27
<PAGE>

because the nominee does not have discretionary voting power and has not
received instructions from the beneficial owner, a failure to vote or an
abstention will have the effect of a vote against the adoption of the merger
and the merger agreement.

   Each director and executive officer of CMC has executed a voting agreement,
in the form attached as Annex E to this joint proxy statement/prospectus, with
ACT whereby they have agreed to vote an aggregate of 2,191,712 shares of CMC
common stock, representing approximately 29% of the common stock outstanding on
the record date (excluding any shares issuable upon the exercise of options),
in favor of the approval of the merger and the merger agreement and against
approval of any proposal made in opposition or competition with the completion
of the merger. Such persons also hold options exercisable as of the record date
to purchase an aggregate of 742,935 shares of CMC common stock, which, if
exercised prior to the CMC record date, would approximate an additional 9.0% of
the votes entitled to vote at the CMC special meeting and will be voted as
described above. See "The Merger Agreement--Voting Agreements."

Proxies

   Andrew J. Moley and Lanny N. Lambert, each of whom has been named as proxies
in the proxy, are executive officers of CMC. All shares of CMC common stock
that are entitled to vote and are represented at the CMC special meeting by
properly executed proxies received prior to or at the CMC special meeting, and
not duly and timely revoked, will be voted at the CMC special meeting in
accordance with the instructions indicated on such proxies. If no instructions
are indicated, these proxies will be voted FOR the approval of the merger and
the merger agreement.

   To the knowledge of CMC's board, there are no other matters to be presented
at the CMC special meeting. If any other matters are properly presented for
consideration at the CMC special meeting, or any adjournments or postponements
thereof, including consideration of a motion to adjourn or postpone the CMC
special meeting to another time or place for the purposes of soliciting
additional proxies, Andrew J. Moley and Lanny N. Lambert will have the
discretion to vote on such matters in accordance with their best judgment.

Revocability of Proxies

   Any proxy given pursuant to this solicitation may be revoked by the person
giving it at any time before it is voted. Proxies may be revoked by:

  . filing with the Secretary of CMC, at or before the taking of the vote at
    the CMC special meeting, a written notice of revocation bearing a later
    date than the proxy;

  . duly executing a later-dated proxy relating to the same shares and
    delivering it to the Secretary of CMC before the taking of the vote at
    the CMC special meeting; or

  . attending the CMC special meeting and voting in person, although
    attendance at the meeting will not in and of itself constitute a
    revocation of a proxy.

   Any written notice of revocation or subsequent proxy should be sent to CMC
Industries, Inc., 4950 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, California 95054,
Attention: Andrew Moley, or hand delivered to the Secretary of CMC at or before
the taking of the vote at the CMC special meeting. Stockholders that have
instructed a broker to vote their shares must follow directions received from
such broker in order to change their vote or to vote at the CMC special
meeting.

Solicitation of Proxies; Expenses

   All expenses of CMC's solicitation of proxies, including the cost of
preparing and mailing this joint proxy statement/prospectus to CMC
stockholders, will be borne by CMC. In addition to solicitation by use of the
mails, proxies may be solicited from CMC stockholders by certain directors,
officers and employees of CMC in

                                       28
<PAGE>

person or by telephone or other means of communication. No such person will
receive additional compensation in connection with any solicitation other than
for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. Arrangements will also be made with the
brokerage houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for the forwarding of
proxy solicitation materials to beneficial owners of shares held of record by
such brokerage houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries, and CMC will
reimburse such brokerage houses, custodians, nominees and fiduciaries for their
reasonable expenses incurred in forwarding such materials.

                                       29
<PAGE>

                                   THE MERGER

   The following discussion summarizes the terms of the proposed merger.
Detailed terms of and conditions to the merger are contained in the merger
agreement, attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus as Annex A and
incorporated herein by reference. Statements made in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus with respect to the terms of the merger are qualified in
their respective entireties by reference to the more detailed information set
forth in the merger agreement and the other Annexes hereto, each of which is
incorporated herein by reference. This joint proxy statement/prospectus
contains forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Actual results could differ
materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result
of certain factors, including those set forth in the risk factors set forth
above. Reference is made to the particular discussions set forth below
regarding the merger as well as under ACT Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and CMC Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. In
connection with forward-looking statements which appear in these disclosures
and elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, stockholders should
carefully review the factors set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus
under "Risk Factors."

General

   The merger will become effective upon the filing of a certificate of merger
with the Secretary of State of Delaware unless the certificate of merger
provides for a later date of effectiveness. We will file a certificate of
merger as soon as practicable following the satisfaction or waiver of the
conditions set forth in the merger agreement.

   At the effective time of the merger, East Acquisition Corp., a wholly-owned
subsidiary of ACT will merge with and into CMC with CMC continuing as the
surviving corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT. At the effective
time of the merger, each share of CMC common stock outstanding immediately
prior to the effective time will be converted into the right to receive 0.50 of
a share of ACT common stock. Shares, if any, held in the treasury of CMC or
owned by ACT, East Acquisition Corp. or any direct or indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of ACT or CMC will be cancelled. ACT will pay cash with respect to
any fractional shares of ACT common stock to which a CMC stockholder would
otherwise be entitled based on the closing price of the ACT common stock on the
trading day immediately prior to the effective time of the merger.

Background of the Merger

   In August 1998, Matthew Landa, President and Chief Executive Officer of CMC,
Andrew Moley, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of CMC, John
Pino, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACT, and
Peter McGowan, of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown met in Massachusetts to discuss a
possible business combination between CMC and ACT. The meeting was preceded by
several telephone calls between Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino in the preceding year.

   On September 3, 1998, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley, Mr. Pino and Mr. McGowan met in
California to again discuss a possible business combination.

   On September 8, 1998, CMC and ACT entered into a confidentiality agreement.

   In September 1998, Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino had several additional telephone
conversations regarding a possible business combination between CMC and ACT. No
further talks ensued until January 1999.

   On January 7, 1999, Mr. Pino met with Mr. Landa and Mr. Moley on a visit to
CMC's offices in California. The meeting was followed by several telephone
calls between Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino regarding a possible business combination
between ACT and CMC.

   On March 3, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley, Mr. Pino, Douglass Greenlaw, Vice
President of Strategic Development of ACT, Jeffrey B. Lavin, Chief Financial
Officer of ACT, and Mr. McGowan met at CMC in California to discuss the
strategic fit between CMC and ACT.

                                       30
<PAGE>

   Between March 3, 1999 and March 15, 1999, Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino had several
telephone calls to discuss the strategic fit between the companies and a
possible business combination.

   On March 11, 1999, ACT retained Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown as its financial
advisor.

   On March 16, 1999, ACT sent to CMC a letter setting forth the outline of
terms of a proposed transaction between ACT and CMC. Between March 16, 1999 and
April 1, 1999, Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino held several telephone conversations
regarding the proposed terms for a possible business combination between CMC
and ACT.

   On March 18, 1999, CMC formally retained BancBoston Robertson Stephens to
act as its financial advisor with respect to the proposed transaction with ACT.
BancBoston Robertson Stephens had advised CMC from time to time during the
previous months with respect to this and other potential transactions.

   On March 19, 1999, ACT sent to CMC a revised letter setting forth the
outline of terms of a proposed transaction.

   On March 24, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley, Lanny Lambert, Vice President,
Controller and Secretary of CMC, Jack O'Rear, Chief Operating Officer of CMC,
Mr. Pino, Mr. Lavin, Mr. Greenlaw, and representatives of Testa, Hurwitz &
Thibeault, LLP, ACT's legal advisors, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown, Wilson Sonsini
Goodrich & Rosati, P.C., CMC's legal advisors, and BancBoston Robertson
Stephens had a conference call to discuss the due diligence process.

   On March 29 and March 31, 1999, representatives of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown
and BancBoston Robertson Stephens had a conference call to discuss due
diligence and other requirements to proceed with a possible business
combination.

   On March 22, 1999 and March 30, 1999, the board of directors of CMC held
special meetings at which Mr. Landa and Mr. Moley, together with
representatives of BancBoston Robertson Stephens, gave presentations to the
board regarding a possible business combination with ACT.

   In April and early May, members of the CMC board met and communicated with
each other and with management of CMC on a number of occasions, to discuss the
status of negotiations with ACT and management's due diligence investigations
of ACT.

   A meeting took place on April 1, 1999 in Boston, Massachusetts at the
offices of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP. Participating in the meeting were
David S. Lee, Chairman of the Board of CMC, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley, Mr. O'Rear,
Mr. Pino, Mr. Greenlaw, Mr. Lavin, representatives of BancBoston Robertson
Stephens, representatives of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown, representatives of
Adams, Harkness & Hill, Inc. and representatives of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault,
LLP. CMC discussed recent events in CMC's business and ACT presented to CMC a
term sheet setting forth the terms of a possible business combination with CMC.
CMC indicated that they were not in agreement over several terms in the term
sheet.

   From April 5, 1999 to April 8, 1999, Mr. Landa and Mr. Pino, as well as both
companies' financial and legal advisors, continued discussions concerning the
terms of a possible business combination between CMC and ACT.

   On April 7, 1999, ACT sent to CMC a revised letter setting forth the outline
of terms of a proposed transaction.

   On April 8, 1999, the ACT board of directors held a special meeting at which
Mr. Pino reviewed for the board various strategic alternatives of ACT,
including a possible business combination with CMC, to enhance shareholder
value. ACT's legal advisors reviewed with the board its legal duties and
responsibilities. The ACT board of directors established an independent
committee composed of Mr. Cuddy, Mr. Gardner and Mr. Polich, each a director of
ACT, to analyze and advise the board with reference to possible strategic
combinations of ACT.

                                       31
<PAGE>

   On April 8, 1999, ACT and CMC agreed to negotiate a definitive agreement
based on a letter setting forth the outline of a number of terms and conditions
of the proposed business combination between ACT and CMC, and CMC entered into
an exclusivity agreement with ACT.

   From April 12, 1999 to April 23, 1999, representatives of Deloitte & Touche
LLP, ACT's accountants, met with representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
CMC's accountants, in the offices of PricewaterhouseCoopers in Memphis,
Tennessee and CMC in Mississippi to conduct accounting due diligence.

   From April 12, 1999 to May 10, 1999, CMC, its legal and financial advisors,
and its accountants conducted a due diligence review of ACT and ACT, its legal
and financial advisors, and its accountants conducted a due diligence review of
CMC.

   From April 13, 1999 to April 14, 1999, Mr. Pino, Mr. Greenlaw, and
representatives of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown conducted a business due diligence
review at CMC's California facility.

   On April 14, 1999, representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP met with Mr.
Lambert and representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP at the offices of
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP in Memphis for purposes of accounting due diligence.

   On April 15, 1999, Mr. Lavin, Lynne Rudert, ACT's Corporate Controller,
representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP, Mr. Moley and Mr. Lambert met at
CMC's Mississippi facilities to continue accounting due diligence.

   From April 15, 1999 to April 16, 1999, Mr. Pino met with Mr. Landa at CMC's
Mississippi facilities, and Mr. Greenlaw and representatives of Deutsche Banc
Alex. Brown met with Brian Throneberry, Vice President Marketing and Sales of
CMC, at CMC's Hermosillo, Mexico facilities to conduct business due diligence.

   On April 16, 1999, ACT sent to CMC a draft of a merger agreement.

   During the period between April 16, 1999 and May 9, 1999, management of ACT
and CMC, together with their respective legal and financial advisors, held
extensive negotiations regarding the terms and conditions of the definitive
agreements relating to the proposed transaction between ACT and CMC.

   On April 20, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Lee, Mr. O'Rear, and representatives of
BancBoston Robertson Stephens visited ACT's facilities in Mansfield,
Massachusetts with Mr. Greenlaw; then Mr. Landa, Mr. Lee, Mr. Moley, Mr. O'
Rear, Mr. Lambert, Mr. Greenlaw and representatives of BancBoston Robertson
Stephens visited ACT's facilities in Hudson, Massachusetts to conduct business
due diligence.

   On April 20, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Lambert, Mr. Moley, Mr. O'Rear,
representatives of BancBoston Robertson Stephens, Mr. Pino, Mr. Greenlaw, Mr.
Lavin and Robert Egan, ACT's Vice President of Business Development, met in
Hudson, Massachusetts to discuss due diligence and the proposed business
combination between CMC and ACT.

   On April 20, 1999, representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP met with
representatives of Deloitte & Touche LLP in Boston, Massachusetts to conduct
accounting due diligence.

   On April 21, 1999, Mr. Landa and Mr. O'Rear met with Mr. Greenlaw at ACT's
Ireland facilities to conduct business due diligence.

   On April 21, 1999, Mr. Lambert and representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP met with Ms. Rudert at ACT's Hudson, Massachusetts facility to conduct
accounting due diligence.

   On April 22, 1999, Mr. O'Rear visited ACT's facilities in Atlanta, Georgia
with Mr. Greenlaw to conduct business due diligence.


                                       32
<PAGE>

   On April 27, 1999, the ACT board of directors held a regular meeting at
which Mr. Pino, together with ACT's legal and financial advisors, reviewed for
the ACT board of directors the status of negotiations with CMC as to a possible
business combination. ACT's management and each of its legal, accounting and
financial advisors reported on the results to date of their due diligence
reviews of CMC. ACT's financial advisors made a preliminary presentation to the
board regarding financial analyses it had performed regarding the fairness of
possible exchange ratios in the merger to ACT's stockholders from a financial
point of view. The ACT board discussed, among other things, the possible
advantages of a combination with CMC and the relative merits of other strategic
combinations. The board instructed management and its advisors to continue due
diligence and negotiations with CMC.

   On April 28, 1999, CMC agreed to an extension of the exclusivity period with
ACT.

   On April 30, 1999, representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, BancBoston
Robertson Stephens, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley, Mr. Pino, Mr. Lavin, and Ms. Rudert
met by teleconference to discuss due diligence issues.

   On May 1 and 2, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Pino, Mr. Greenlaw and representatives
of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C.,
met by teleconference to discuss various due diligence issues and terms of the
proposed merger agreement.

   On May 3, 1999, Mr. Landa, representatives of BancBoston Robertson Stephens,
and representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP met with Mr. Lavin and Ms.
Rudert in Hudson, Massachusetts to conduct accounting and business due
diligence.

   On May 4, 1999, Mr. Pino and Mr. Greenlaw met with Mr. Landa at CMC's
California offices to discuss recent events in ACT's and CMC's businesses and
the terms for a proposed business combination between CMC and ACT.

   On May 6, 1999, the board of directors of ACT met by teleconference at which
Mr. Pino, together with ACT's legal advisors, reviewed for the ACT board of
directors the status of negotiations with CMC as to a possible business
combination. ACT's legal advisors reviewed with the board, and answered
questions from the board regarding, various due diligence items concerning CMC,
the principal terms of the proposed merger agreement and the related
agreements, and the directors' legal duties and responsibilities. The board
instructed management and its legal advisors to continue due diligence and
negotiations with CMC.

   On May 6, 1999, Mr. Landa, Mr. Pino and Mr. Greenlaw discussed the terms for
a proposed business combination between CMC and ACT.

   On May 7, 1999, the board of directors of ACT held a special meeting at
which Mr. Pino, together with ACT's legal and financial advisors, reviewed for
the ACT board of directors the status of negotiations with CMC as to a possible
business combination. Prior to the meeting, ACT's legal advisors provided each
member of the ACT board of directors with the then current draft of the merger
agreement and the related documents. ACT's management, legal advisors and
financial advisors updated their reports on the results of their due diligence
reviews of CMC. ACT's legal advisors updated the board regarding the principal
terms of the proposed merger agreement and the related agreements, indicating
those still requiring resolution. ACT's financial advisors made a presentation
to the board regarding financial analyses it had performed regarding the
fairness of the exchange ratio in the merger to ACT's stockholders from a
financial point of view. Following extensive discussion, the ACT board of
directors directed Mr. Pino to continue to negotiate the terms of a proposed
business combination between ACT and CMC.

   On May 7, 1999, Mr. Pino continued to negotiate with Mr. Landa and Mr. Moley
the terms of a proposed business combination between ACT and CMC. Continued
negotiations regarding the terms of a proposed business combination ensued
between the companies' financial advisors.

                                       33
<PAGE>

   On May 8, 1999, the board of directors of CMC held a special meeting at
which Mr. Landa, together with CMC's legal and financial advisors, reviewed for
the CMC board of directors the status of negotiations with ACT as to a possible
business combination. Prior to the meeting, the then current draft of the
merger agreement and related documents were distributed to the CMC board of
directors. CMC's management, legal advisors and financial advisors updated the
board regarding the results of CMC's due diligence review of ACT. CMC's legal
advisors reviewed for the board the principal terms of the proposed agreement
and ancillary documents. CMC's financial advisors made a presentation to the
board regarding financial analyses it had performed in connection with its
opinion and provided its opinion, which was subsequently confirmed in writing
on May 10, 1999, as to the fairness of the exchange ratio in the merger to
CMC's stockholders from a financial point of view and as of the date of the
opinion. Following extensive discussion, the CMC board of directors unanimously
approved the merger agreement and related agreements and the merger and
determined to recommend that the merger agreement be approved and adopted and
the merger be approved by the CMC stockholders.

   On May 9, 1999, the board of directors of ACT met by teleconference at which
Mr. Pino, together with ACT's management and legal and financial advisors,
reviewed for the ACT board of directors the status of negotiations with CMC as
to a possible business combination. ACT's management, legal advisors and
financial advisors updated their reports on the results of their due diligence
reviews of CMC. ACT's legal advisors again reviewed for the board the principal
terms of the proposed merger agreement and the related agreements. ACT's
financial advisors made a final presentation to the board of directors
regarding financial analyses it had performed in connection with its opinion
and rendered to the board its oral opinion which it subsequently confirmed in
writing, as to the fairness of the exchange ratio in the merger to ACT's
stockholders from a financial point of view. Following discussion, the ACT
board of directors unanimously approved the merger, the merger agreement and
related agreements, and certain other proposals in connection therewith and
determined to recommend that the merger, the merger agreement and the issuance
of ACT common stock in the merger, as well as certain other proposals in
connection therewith, be approved by the ACT stockholders.

   On May 9 and 10, 1999, Mr. Pino, Mr. Greenlaw, Mr. Landa, Mr. Moley,
representatives of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, and representatives of
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. finalized negotiations and resolved the
remaining issues in the merger agreement and the related documents.

   On May 10, 1999, the parties executed the merger agreement and certain
stockholders of each of CMC and ACT entered into voting agreements. Each of the
members of ACT's and CMC's boards of directors and executive officers also
entered into affiliate agreements. On the same day, ACT and CMC issued a joint
press release announcing the proposed business combination.

Joint Reasons for the Merger

   The ACT board and the CMC board each believe that the combined company after
the merger will have the potential for greater financial strength, operational
efficiencies, earning power and growth potential than either ACT or CMC could
have on its own. Both the ACT board and the CMC board have identified a number
of potential benefits of the merger which they believe could contribute to the
success of the combined company and thus inure to the benefit of stockholders
of both companies, including the following:

  . In light of significant industry trends toward consolidation, the
    combined company might be expected to accrue the advantages of greater
    size, financial strength and geographic coverage in competing in the
    marketplace. The merger may provide the combined company with the
    opportunity to generate revenue from customers that require size and
    geographic coverage requirements for electronics manufacturing services
    providers which neither ACT nor CMC was able to satisfy prior to the
    merger.

  . The merger would provide the combined company with a broader customer
    base which may reduce its customer concentration risk and which the
    combined company may be able to leverage to increase its market share. In
    particular, the merger may provide opportunities to increase revenues
    from ACT's current customers due to the ability of the combined company
    to offer them a lower cost alternative and a broader geographic presence
    than what ACT is able to offer on its own. Likewise, the opportunity may
    exist for the combined company to increase revenues from current CMC
    customers due to its ability to demonstrate to such clients a European
    and eastern United States presence.

                                       34
<PAGE>

  . The combined experience, financial resources, managerial, sales,
    marketing and technological expertise and personnel, and size and breadth
    of product and service offerings of the combined company, may allow it to
    respond more quickly and effectively to increased competition, market
    demands and technological change affecting the delivery of electronic
    manufacturing services for the networking and telecommunications,
    computer, industrial and medical equipment markets, each of which is
    experiencing rapid innovation and change.

  . The combined company may have a greater ability to access various
    financial and capital markets which can provide a platform for continued
    growth, both internally and through further acquisitions.

  . The merger may provide the combined company with an opportunity to expand
    its product and service offerings and thereby help the combined company
    realize its strategic objective of increasing market share and competing
    more effectively in its highly competitive markets.

  . The strategic fit and compatibility of the two companies, including their
    common equipment platforms and information systems, may offer potential
    cost savings and opportunities for other synergies.

ACT's Reasons for the Merger

   The ACT board of directors believes that, despite ACT's success to date,
increasing competition and industry consolidation make it increasingly
important for ACT to grow and gain critical mass in order to compete with
larger companies that have substantially greater resources, lower cost bases
and broader geographic coverage. ACT's board and management have considered a
number of alternatives for enhancing its competitive position, including
growing through the acquisition of smaller companies or merging with a larger
company. In reaching its decision to approve the merger and the merger
agreement, the ACT board consulted with management, as well as its legal,
financial and accounting advisors, and considered various information and
factors in addition to those set forth under "--Joint Reasons for the Merger,"
including:

  . The business, assets, management, operations, competitive position,
    prospects, technical, engineering and sales personnel, and technology of
    both ACT and CMC;

  . The analyses, judgment and advice of ACT's management with respect to the
    above identified information;

  . The possible synergies available through a combination of ACT and CMC;

  . The likely stronger competitive position of the combined entity;

  . The financial performance and condition, cash flows and results of
    operations of ACT and CMC, both on a historical and a prospective basis,
    and the expectation that the merger would be accretive to ACT's net
    income per share in year 2000;

  . The geographic locations and cost structures of ACT's and CMC's
    facilities;

  . The significant potential enhancement to the strategic and market
    position of the combined entity beyond that achievable by ACT alone due
    to the creation of a larger customer base, greater critical mass, higher
    market profile and greater financial strength;

  . Current financial market conditions and historical market prices and
    trading information with respect to ACT common stock and CMC common stock
    and the exchange ratio to be used as a basis for converting CMC common
    stock into the right to receive ACT common stock, which suggested that a
    combination of ACT and CMC had the potential to provide higher stock
    trading multiples than would be applicable to ACT alone;

  . The potential for other third parties to enter into strategic
    relationships with or to acquire ACT or CMC;

  . The terms and conditions of the merger agreement, including the form and
    amount of consideration and the fact that the number of shares of ACT
    common stock to be issued was based on a fixed per share ratio;

  . The fact that the issuance of shares of ACT common stock in the merger
    would increase ACT's public stock float;

                                       35
<PAGE>

  . Detailed financial analyses and presentations of Deutsche Banc Alex.
    Brown, ACT's financial advisor, in connection with the merger, and its
    opinion to the ACT board that, subject to the various considerations set
    forth therein, the consideration to be paid by ACT pursuant to the
    exchange ratio in the merger is fair, from a financial point of view, to
    ACT;

  . Detailed reports from management and its legal, accounting and financial
    advisors as to the results of their due diligence review of CMC;

  . The impact of the merger on ACT's customers and employees;

  . The opportunity to achieve a larger and more stable platform to continue
    to make strategic acquisitions;

  . The intended treatment of the merger as a tax-free reorganization under
    the Internal Revenue Code and the condition to ACT's obligation under the
    merger agreement that ACT receive a legal opinion as to the tax-free
    nature of the merger; and

  . The intended treatment of the merger as a "pooling of interests" for
    financial reporting and accounting purposes and the condition to ACT's
    obligation under the merger agreement that ACT receive a letter from its
    independent auditors, stating that the merger will qualify as a "pooling
    of interests" transaction under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No.
    16.

   The ACT board of directors also considered the following potentially
negative factors in its deliberations concerning the merger:

  . The risk that ACT may not be able to successfully integrate a company of
    CMC's size such that the anticipated benefits of the merger, including
    the expected operational synergies and cost savings, may not be realized;

  . The risk that the merger may not be accretive to net income per share in
    year 2000 or at all;

  . The significant costs involved in connection with consummating the merger
    and integrating the businesses of CMC and ACT;

  . The substantial management time and effort required to effectuate the
    merger and integrate the businesses of CMC and ACT;

  . The potential disruption or loss of momentum to ACT's operations;

  . The risk that the merger might not be completed and the resulting impact
    on ACT;

  . The risk that despite the efforts of the combined company, key
    management, sales and technical personnel may leave the employ of the
    combined company;

  . The risk associated with the fact that CMC has in the past, and may in
    the future, lose all or a material portion of business from one or more
    major customers;

  . The risk that CMC has in the past, and may in the future, experience
    significant fluctuations in net sales and net income;

  . The risk associated with a fixed exchange ratio and fluctuations in ACT's
    and CMC's common stock price; and

  . Various other risks.

   The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
ACT board of directors is not intended to be exhaustive. In view of the wide
variety of information and factors considered in connection with its evaluation
of the merger, the ACT board did not quantify or assign any relative or
specific weights to the factors considered in reaching its determination. Its
individual members may have given different weights to different factors.

   After taking into consideration all of the information and factors set forth
above, the ACT board of directors did not believe that the negative factors
were sufficient, either individually or collectively, to outweigh the potential
advantages of the merger. The ACT board of directors unanimously determined
that the merger agreement and the merger were in the best interests of ACT and
its stockholders and that ACT should enter into the merger agreement and
complete the merger.

                                       36
<PAGE>

  Recommendation of ACT's Board of Directors

   The ACT board of directors unanimously approved the merger, the merger
agreement and the transactions related thereto, has unanimously determined that
they are fair to and in the best interests of ACT and its stockholders, and has
declared their advisability. After careful consideration, the ACT board of
directors unanimously recommends that stockholders of ACT vote FOR approval and
adoption of the merger agreement and the issuance of ACT common stock pursuant
to the merger agreement.

CMC's Reasons for the Merger

   In reaching its decision to approve the merger agreement and the merger, the
CMC board of directors consulted with:

  . Its legal counsel regarding the legal terms of the transaction and the
    obligations of the CMC board of directors in its consideration of the
    proposed transaction;

  . Its financial advisors regarding the financial aspects of the proposed
    transaction and the fairness of the exchange ratio to CMC's stockholders
    from a financial point of view; and

  . The management of CMC.

   The CMC board of directors considered the following information and factors
in addition to those set forth under "--Joint Reasons for the Merger":

  . Given the complementary nature of the manufacturing services of CMC and
    ACT, the merger will enhance the opportunity for the realization of CMC's
    strategic objective of expanding its market share and creating a greater
    critical mass in the electronics manufacturing services industry.

  . CMC's stockholders will have the opportunity to participate in the
    potential for growth of the combined company after the merger.

  . The creation of a larger customer base, a higher market profile and
    greater financial strength may present greater opportunities for
    attracting customers.

  . Historical information concerning CMC and ACT's respective businesses,
    prospects, financial performance and condition, operations, technology,
    management and competitive position, including public reports concerning
    results of operations during the most recent fiscal year and fiscal
    quarter for each company filed with the Securities and Exchange
    Commission.

  . The financial condition, results of operations and businesses of CMC and
    ACT before and after giving effect to the merger.

  . Current financial market conditions and historical market prices,
    volatility and trading information with respect to the common stock of
    CMC and the common stock of ACT.

  . The consideration to be received by CMC's stockholders in the merger and
    the relationship between the market value of the common stock of ACT to
    be issued in exchange for each share of common stock of CMC and a
    comparison of comparable merger transactions.

  . The belief that the terms of the merger agreement, including the parties'
    representations, warranties and covenants, and the conditions to their
    respective obligations, are reasonable.

  . The prospects of CMC as an independent company.

  . The potential for other third parties to enter into strategic
    relationships with or to acquire CMC or ACT.

  . Detailed financial analysis and pro forma and other information with
    respect to the companies presented by BancBoston Robertson Stephens to
    the board, including its opinion that, as of the date of the opinion, the
    exchange ratio in the merger is fair to the stockholders of CMC from a
    financial point of view.

  . The impact of the merger on CMC's customers and employees.

                                       37
<PAGE>

  . Reports from management and legal, accounting and financial advisors as
    to the results of their due diligence investigation of ACT.

  . The parties' intent to treat the merger as a tax-free reorganization
    under the Internal Revenue Code.

  . The intended treatment of the merger as a "pooling of interests" for
    financial reporting and accounting purposes so that no goodwill is
    expected to be created on the books of the combined company as a result
    of the transaction.

   The CMC board of directors also considered potentially negative factors
relating to the merger, including:

  . The risk that the potential benefits sought in the merger might not be
    fully realized;

  . The possibility that the merger might not be consummated and the effect
    of public announcement of the merger or any failure to consummate the
    merger on:

    . CMC's sales, operating results and stock price; and

    . CMC's ability to attract and retain key management, sales and
      marketing and technical personnel;

  . The substantial charges to be incurred in connection with the merger,
    including costs of integrating the businesses and transaction expenses
    arising from the merger;

  . The risk that despite the efforts of the combined company, key technical,
    sales and management personnel might not remain employed by the combined
    company;

  . The risk associated with the fact that ACT has in the past, and may in
    the future, lose all or a material portion of business from one or more
    major customers;

  . The risk that ACT has in the past, and may in the future, experience
    significant fluctuations in net sales and net income;

  . Risks associated with fluctuations in ACT's stock price; and

  . Various other risks.

   The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
CMC board of directors is not intended to be exhaustive but is believed to
include all material factors considered by the CMC board of directors. In view
of the wide variety of information and factors, both positive and negative,
considered by the CMC board of directors, the CMC board of directors did not
find it practical to, and did not, quantify or otherwise assign relative or
specific weights to the foregoing factors considered. After taking into
consideration all of the factors set forth above, the CMC board of directors
unanimously determined that the merger agreement and the merger were in the
best interests of CMC and its stockholders and that CMC should enter into the
merger agreement and complete the merger.

   Recommendation of CMC's Board of Directors

   The CMC board of directors unanimously approved the merger, the merger
agreement and the transactions related thereto, has unanimously determined that
they are fair to and in the best interests of CMC and its stockholders and has
declared their advisability. After careful consideration, the CMC board of
directors unanimously recommends that stockholders of CMC vote FOR approval and
adoption of the merger and the merger agreement.

   In considering the recommendation of the CMC board of directors with respect
to the merger agreement and the merger, you should be aware that certain
directors and officers of CMC have certain interests in the merger that are
different from, and in addition to, the interests of CMC stockholders
generally. These interests are discussed in more detail in the section entitled
"The Merger--Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger" on page 50 of this
joint proxy statement/prospectus.

Opinion of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown, Financial Advisor to ACT

   Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown has acted as financial advisor to ACT in
connection with the merger. At the May 9, 1999 meeting of the ACT board of
directors, representatives of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown made a

                                       38
<PAGE>

presentation with respect to the merger and rendered to the ACT board its oral
opinion, subsequently confirmed in writing as of May 10, 1999, that, as of such
date, and subject to the assumptions made, matters considered, and limitations
set forth in such opinion and summarized below, the exchange ratio was fair,
from a financial point of view, to ACT stockholders. There were no material
differences between such oral opinion and the Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Opinion
(as defined below). No limitations were imposed by the ACT board upon Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown with respect to the investigations made or procedures followed
by it in rendering its opinion.

   The full text of Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown's written opinion, dated May 10,
1999 (the "Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Opinion"), which sets forth, among other
things, the assumptions made, matters considered and limits on the review
undertaken by Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown in connection with the opinion, is
attached as Annex B to this joint proxy statement/prospectus and is
incorporated herein by reference. ACT stockholders are urged to read the
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Opinion in its entirety. The summary of the Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown Opinion set forth in this joint proxy statement/prospectus is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Deutsche Banc
Alex. Brown Opinion.

   In connection with Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown's role as financial advisor to
ACT, and in arriving at its opinion, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown has, among other
things:

  . reviewed certain publicly available financial information and other
    information concerning ACT and CMC and certain internal analyses and
    other information furnished to it by ACT and CMC.;

  . had discussions with the members of the senior managements of ACT and CMC
    regarding the businesses and prospects of their respective companies and
    the joint prospects of a combined company;

  . reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for the common stock of
    both ACT and CMC;

  . compared certain financial and stock market information for ACT and CMC
    with similar information for certain other companies whose securities are
    publicly traded;

  . reviewed the financial terms of selected recent business combinations;

  . reviewed the terms of the merger agreement and certain related documents;
    and

  . performed such other studies and analyses and considered such other
    factors as it deemed appropriate.

   In conducting its review and arriving at its opinion, Deutsche Banc Alex.
Brown assumed and relied upon, without independent verification, the accuracy
and completeness of the information furnished to or otherwise reviewed by or
discussed with it for purposes of rendering its opinion. Deutsche Banc Alex.
Brown further relied upon the assurances of management of ACT and CMC that they
were not aware of any facts or circumstances that would make such information
inaccurate or misleading. With respect to the financial forecasts and
projections made available to Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown and used in its
analysis, including analyses and forecasts of certain cost savings, operating
efficiencies, revenue effects and financial synergies (collectively, the
"Synergies") expected by ACT and CMC to be achieved as a result of the merger,
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown assumed that such projections and other information
were reasonably prepared and reflected the best currently available judgments
and estimates of the respective managements of ACT and CMC as to the likely
future financial performances of their respective companies and of the combined
entity. The financial projections of ACT and CMC and other information relating
to the prospects of ACT and CMC that were provided to Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown
were utilized and relied upon by Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown in the Analysis of
Certain Other Publicly Traded Companies, the Analysis of Selected Mergers and
Acquisitions, the Contribution Analysis and the Discounted Cash Flow Analysis
summarized below. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown did not conduct a physical
inspection of any of the properties or assets, and did not prepare or obtain
any independent evaluation or appraisal of any of the assets or liabilities of
ACT or CMC. In rendering its opinion, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown expressed no
view as to the reasonableness of such forecasts and projections, including the
Synergies, or the assumptions on which they are based. The Deutsche Banc Alex.
Brown Opinion is based upon economic, market and other conditions as they
existed and could be evaluated as of the date of the opinion letter.

                                       39
<PAGE>

   For purposes of rendering its opinion, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown has assumed
that, in all respects material to its analysis, the representations and
warranties of ACT and CMC contained in the merger agreement are true and
correct, that ACT and CMC will each perform all of the covenants and agreements
to be performed by it under the merger agreement and all conditions to the
obligation of each of ACT and CMC to consummate the merger will be satisfied
without any waiver thereof. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown has also assumed that all
material governmental, regulatory or other approvals and consents required in
connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the merger
agreement will be obtained and that in connection with obtaining any necessary
governmental, regulatory or other approvals and consents, or any amendments,
modifications or waivers to any agreements, instruments or orders to which
either ACT or CMC is a party or subject or by which it is bound, no
limitations, restrictions or conditions will be imposed or amendments,
modifications or waivers made that would have a material adverse effect on ACT
or CMC or materially reduce the contemplated benefits of the merger to ACT. In
addition, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown has been advised by ACT, and accordingly
has assumed for purposes of its opinion, that the merger will be tax-free to
each of ACT and CMC and their respective stockholders and that the merger will
qualify for pooling-of-interests accounting treatment.

   Set forth below is a brief summary of the material financial analyses
performed by Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown in connection with its opinion and
reviewed with the ACT board of directors at its meeting on May 9, 1999. The
summary of financial analyses includes information presented in tabular format.
You should read these tables together with the text of each summary.

   Historical Financial Performance. In rendering its opinion, Deutsche Banc
Alex. Brown reviewed and analyzed the historical and current financial
information of both ACT and CMC which included ACT's and CMC's income
statements and balance sheets; ACT's and CMC's quarterly and annual operating
results; and ACT's and CMC's margins and growth rates.

   Historical Stock Performance. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown reviewed and
analyzed recent and historical market prices and trading volume for ACT common
stock and CMC common stock from January 1, 1997 to May 7, 1999 and the relative
stock price movements of the two companies over this period. Deutsche Banc
Alex. Brown also reviewed the daily closing per share market prices of ACT
common stock and CMC common stock and compared the movement of such daily
closing prices with the movement of the closing prices of:

  . the average of the common stocks of Benchmark Electronics and Plexus
    Corp.;

  . a composite average consisting of EFTC Corp., Elamex SA, IEC Electronics
    and Xetel Corp. (the "Other EMS Composite");

  . a composite average consisting of Celestica, Inc., Flextronics
    International, Jabil Circuit, Sanmina Corp., SCI Systems and Solectron
    Corp. (the "Tier 1 Composite"); and

  . the NASDAQ Composite Index over the period from January 1, 1997 to May 7,
    1999.

   Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown noted that over such period, ACT and CMC
significantly underperformed the average of the common stocks of Benchmark
Electronics and Plexus Corp., the NASDAQ Composite Index, and the Tier 1
Composite. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown also noted that the average of the common
stocks of Benchmark Electronics and Plexus Corp. and the Tier 1 EMS Composite
outperformed the NASDAQ Composite Index, and that the performance of ACT and
CMC was consistent with the Other EMS Composite. This information was presented
to give the ACT board background information regarding the respective stock
prices of ACT and CMC over such period.

   Analysis of Certain Other Publicly Traded Companies. This analysis examines
a company's valuation as compared to the valuation in the public market of
other selected publicly traded companies. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown compared
certain financial information (based on commonly used valuation measurements
described below) relating to both ACT and CMC to certain corresponding
information and measurements from certain companies in a group of six publicly
traded EMS companies, consisting of Benchmark Electronics,

                                       40
<PAGE>

EFTC Corp., Elamex SA, IEC Electronics, Plexus Corp. and Xetel Corp.
(collectively, the "Selected EMS Companies"). Such financial information and
valuation measurements included, among other things:

  . ratio of common equity market valuation ("Equity Value") to earnings per
    share ("EPS") for calendar years 1999 and 2000;

  . ratio of Equity Value to book value;

  . ratio of common equity market value as adjusted for debt and cash
    ("Enterprise Value") to revenues for the latest reported 12-month period
    ("LTM");

  . ratio of Enterprise Value to earnings before interest expense, income
    taxes and depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") for the LTM and the
    calendar year 1999 (EBITDA only); and

  . ratio of Enterprise Value to earnings before interest expense and income
    taxes ("EBIT"), each for the LTM.

   The financial information used in connection with the multiples provided
below with respect to ACT, CMC, and the Selected EMS Companies was based on the
LTM, as derived from publicly available information and on estimated EPS for
calendar years 1999 and 2000, as reported by the Institutional Brokers Estimate
System ("I/B/E/S"), except that the calendar year 1999 and 2000 estimates for
ACT and CMC were taken from management for ACT and CMC. Calendar year 1999
EBITDA projections for the Selected EMS Companies were based on various equity
market research reports; ACT and CMC projections were based on management
estimates. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown noted, generally, that due to CMC's
recently depressed operating performance and profitability, multiples based on
historical profitability measures were less meaningful than those based on
current and projected profitability measures.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Market Valuation Multiples
                                                -------------------------------
                                                  Selected EMS
                                                   Companies         Merger
                                                ---------------- --------------
                                                Low  Mean  High
                                                ---- ----- -----
<S>                                             <C>  <C>   <C>   <C>
Enterprise Value to LTM Revenues............... 0.1x  0.5x  1.3x      0.3x
Enterprise Value to LTM EBITDA................. 2.4x  8.7x 11.6x     62.0x
Enterprise Value to Estimated 1999 EBITDA...... 7.4x  8.8x 10.6x      9.3x
Enterprise Value to LTM EBIT................... 6.0x 11.3x 14.0x Not Meaningful
Equity Value to LTM Earnings Per Share......... 6.2x 16.9x 27.7x Not Meaningful
Equity Value to Estimated 1999 Earnings Per
 Share......................................... 5.5x 14.3x 33.2x     30.4x
Equity Value to Estimated 2000 Earnings Per
 Share......................................... 8.6x 13.1x 17.1x      7.2x
Equity Value to Book Value..................... 0.4x  1.6x  5.1x      1.5x
</TABLE>

   Analysis of Selected Mergers and Acquisitions. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown
reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of four pending
or completed mergers and acquisitions involving companies in the EMS industry
(the "Selected EMS Transactions"). The financial information used in connection
with the multiples provided below with respect to ACT, CMC, and the Selected
EMS Transactions was based on the LTM period, as derived from publicly
available information and on the forward 12-month period ("FTM") net income
estimates from I/B/E/S. FTM EBITDA estimates for the Selected EMS Transactions
were based on I/B/E/S consensus and Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown equity research.
FTM estimates related to the merger were provided by CMC management. Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown calculated various financial multiples and premiums over
market value based on certain publicly available information for each of the
Selected EMS Transactions and compared them to the corresponding financial
multiples and premiums over market value for the merger, based on the exchange
ratio. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown noted, generally, that due to CMC's recently
depressed operating performance and profitability, multiples based on
historical profitability measures were less meaningful than those based on
current and projected profitability measures. All multiples for the Selected
EMS Transactions were based on public information available at the time of
announcement of such transactions, without taking into account differing market
and other conditions during the two-year period during which the Selected EMS
Transactions occurred.

                                       41
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Transaction Multiples
                                               --------------------------------
                                                Selected EMS
                                                Transactions         Merger
                                               ----------------  --------------
                                               Low   Mean  High
                                               ----  ----  ----
<S>                                            <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>
Enterprise Value to LTM Revenues..............  0.4x  1.0x  1.7x       0.3x
Enterprise Value to LTM EBITDA................  6.1x  9.1x 15.0x      62.0x
Enterprise Value to Estimated FTM EBITDA......  4.0x  6.2x  8.5x       9.3x
Enterprise Value to LTM EBIT..................  8.3x 13.7x 24.5x Not Meaningful
Equity Value to LTM Net Income................ 14.3x 19.2x 28.6x Not Meaningful
Equity Value to FTM Net Income................ 11.0x 16.1x 21.8x      30.4x
Equity Value to Book Value....................  1.6x  3.8x  8.3x       1.5x
Premium Over Market Price Four Weeks Prior to
 Announcement of Transaction .................  5.9% 50.5% 83.1%      52.0%
</TABLE>

   Pro Forma Book Value per Share Analysis. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown
calculated a pro forma book value per diluted share for the combined company of
approximately $6.55, as compared with ACT's book value per diluted share of
$5.53.

   Historical Exchange Ratio Analysis. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown reviewed the
historical ratio of the daily per share market closing prices of CMC common
stock divided by the corresponding closing prices of ACT common stock over the
one-year, 90-day, 60-day and 20-day periods prior to May 7, 1999 and as of May
7, 1999 (the last business day prior to announcement of the merger). The
average exchange ratios for these time periods and as of such date were 0.64,
0.33, 0.31, 0.33 and 0.40, respectively, as compared to the exchange ratio for
the merger of 0.50.

   Contribution Analysis. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown analyzed the relative
contributions of ACT and CMC (as compared to pro forma ownership of
approximately 70.8% for ACT and 29.2% for CMC of the combined company) to the
pro forma historical and projected income statement of the combined company,
with projected data based on managements' projections for their respective
companies. This analysis produced the following figures on a pro forma combined
basis (excluding Synergies and merger expenses) based on the 12-month period
ending March 31, 1999 for ACT and the 12-month period ending January 31, 1999
for CMC.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         Pro Forma Contributions
                                                         -----------------------
                                                             ACT         CMC
                                                         ----------- -----------
       <S>                                               <C>         <C>
       Revenue..........................................       49.5%       50.5%
       1999 EBITDA......................................       74.9%       25.1%
       1999 Net Income..................................       84.4%       15.6%
       2000 Net Income..................................       60.3%       39.7%
       Book Value.......................................       56.6%       43.4%
</TABLE>

   Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. A discounted cash flow analysis values a
business based on the current value of the future cash flow that the business
will generate. To establish a current value under this approach, future cash
flows must be estimated and an appropriate discount rate determined. Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown performed a discounted cash flow analysis for both ACT and
CMC. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown used financial projections for ACT and CMC
through the year 2004 in its analysis. ACT projections were provided by ACT
management, and CMC projections were provided by CMC management and adjusted
and extrapolated by Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown in consultation with ACT
management. The terminal values of ACT were calculated based on projected
EBITDA for 2004 and a range of multiples of 7.0x to 9.0x and discount rates
ranging from 15.0% to 18.0%, and were compared to ACT's closing price on May 7,
1999 of $15.19. The terminal values of CMC were calculated based on projected
EBITDA for 2004, a range of multiples of 6.5x to 8.5x, and discount rates
ranging from 15.0% to 18.0% and were compared to the implied merger price of
$7.59. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown also performed pro forma discounted cash flow
analyses for the combined company, both including and excluding the impact of
Synergies. In both cases, the terminal values of the

                                       42
<PAGE>

combined company were calculated using a range of multiples for projected 2004
EBITDA of 8.0x to 10.0x and discount rates ranging from 14.0% to 17.0%. In its
analysis Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown used certain discount rates based on its
calculation of the estimated weighted average cost of capital for ACT and CMC,
and used certain multiples based on its review of the trading characteristics
of the common stock of ACT, CMC and the Selected EMS Companies.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Discounted Values
                                                            --------------------
                                                             Low    Mean   High
                                                            ------ ------ ------
       <S>                                                  <C>    <C>    <C>
       ACT................................................. $14.49 $18.17 $22.31
       CMC................................................. $ 7.38 $ 9.56 $12.01
       Pro Forma, excluding Synergies...................... $17.82 $22.05 $26.81
       Pro Forma, including Synergies...................... $19.70 $24.21 $29.29
</TABLE>

   Relevant Market and Economic Factors. In rendering its opinion, Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown considered, among other factors, the condition of the U.S.
stock markets, particularly the EMS industry, and the current level of economic
activity. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown also considered the competitive dynamics of
the EMS industry, particularly the increased competition relative to size
(revenues) in the EMS industry, the increased multiples applied to those larger
companies in the EMS industry, and the potential impact of such market and
economic factors on ACT's acquisition plan and projections. No company used in
the analysis of other publicly traded companies nor any transaction used in the
analysis of selected mergers and acquisitions summarized above is identical to
ACT, CMC or the merger. Accordingly, such analyses must take into account
differences in the financial and operating characteristics of the Selected EMS
Companies and the companies in the Selected EMS Transactions, and other
factors, such as general economic conditions, conditions in the markets in
which such companies compete, and strategic and operating plans for such
companies, that could affect the public trading value and acquisition value for
the Selected EMS Companies and the companies in the Selected EMS Transactions,
respectively.

   While the foregoing summary describes all analyses and factors that Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown deemed material in its presentation to the ACT board, it is
not a comprehensive description of all analyses and factors considered by
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex
process involving various determinations as to the most appropriate and
relevant methods of financial analysis and the applications of these methods to
the particular circumstances and, therefore, such an opinion is not readily
susceptible to summary description. Furthermore, in arriving at its opinion,
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown did not attribute any particular weight to any
analysis or factor considered by it, but rather made qualitative judgments as
to the significance and relevance of each analysis and factor. Deutsche Banc
Alex. Brown believes that its analyses must be considered as a whole and that
selecting portions of its analyses and of the factors considered by it, without
considering all analyses and factors, would create an incomplete view of the
evaluation process underlying the Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Opinion. In
performing its analyses, Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown considered industry
performance and general economic, market and financial conditions, all of which
are beyond the control of ACT and CMC. None of ACT or CMC management, Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown or any other person assumes responsibility if future results
are materially different from those discussed. The analyses performed by
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown are not necessarily indicative of actual values or
future results, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those
suggested by such analyses. Accordingly, such analyses and estimates are
inherently subject to substantial uncertainty. Additionally, analyses relating
to the value of a business do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the
prices at which the business actually may be sold. Furthermore, no opinion is
being expressed as to the prices at which shares of ACT common stock may trade
at any future time.

   Pursuant to a letter agreement dated March 11, 1999 between ACT and Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown, the fees to date payable to Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown for
rendering the Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Opinion have been $250,000, which
amount will be credited against the final fee of $1,000,000, payable upon
consummation of the merger. In addition, ACT has agreed to reimburse Deutsche
Banc Alex. Brown for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in
connection with rendering financial advisory services, including

                                       43
<PAGE>

fees and disbursements of its legal counsel. ACT has agreed to indemnify
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown and its directors, officers, agents, employees and
controlling persons for certain costs, expenses, losses, claims, damages and
liabilities related to or arising out of its rendering of services under its
engagement as financial advisor.

   The ACT board retained Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown to act as its advisor based
upon Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown's role as lead manager of ACT's initial public
offering on March 30, 1995 and subsequent advisory services and based upon
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown's qualifications, reputation, experience and
expertise. Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown is an internationally recognized
investment banking firm and, as a customary part of its investment banking
business, is engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, private
placements and valuations for corporate and other purposes. Deutsche Banc Alex.
Brown may actively trade the equity securities of ACT and CMC for its own
account and for the account of its customers and, accordingly, may at any time
hold a long or short position in such securities.

Opinion of BancBoston Robertson Stephens, Financial Advisor to CMC

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
        CMC's financial advisor                   Location of its full opinion
        -----------------------                   ----------------------------
      <S>                                         <C>
      BancBoston Robertson
       Stephens                                             Annex C
</TABLE>

   On March 18, 1999, CMC and BancBoston Robertson Stephens formally executed
an engagement letter pursuant to which BancBoston Robertson Stephens was
engaged to act as CMC's financial advisor in connection with the merger.
Pursuant to their engagement letter, CMC retained BancBoston Robertson Stephens
to provide financial advisory and investment banking services to CMC in
connection with a possible sale of, or business combination involving CMC with,
a third party, and to render an opinion as to the fairness of the exchange
ratio, from a financial point of view, to the stockholders of CMC. See "--
Background of the Merger."

   On May 8, 1999, the Board of Directors of CMC met to evaluate the proposed
merger, at which time BancBoston Robertson Stephens rendered orally its opinion
subsequently confirmed in writing on May 10, 1999, that, as of the date of the
opinion, the exchange ratio was fair from a financial point of view, to the
stockholders of CMC. You should consider the following when reading the
discussion of the opinion of CMC's financial advisor in this document:

  . We urge you to read carefully the entire opinion of BancBoston Robertson
    Stephens, which is set forth in Annex C to this joint proxy
    statement/prospectus and is incorporated by reference.

  . The following description of BancBoston Robertson Stephens' opinion is
    qualified by reference to the full opinion located in Annex C to this
    joint proxy statement/prospectus.

  . BancBoston Robertson Stephens' opinion expressed herein is provided for
    the information of the CMC board of directors in connection with its
    evaluation of the merger. BancBoston Robertson Stephens' opinion is not
    intended to be and does not constitute a recommendation to any
    stockholder of CMC or ACT as to how such stockholder should vote, or take
    any other action, with respect to the merger.

  . BancBoston Robertson Stephens' opinion does not address the relative
    merits of the merger and the other business strategies that CMC's board
    of directors has considered or may be considering, nor does it address
    the decision of CMC's board of directors to proceed with the merger.

   No limitations were imposed by CMC's board of directors on BancBoston
Robertson Stephens with respect to the investigations made or procedures
followed by it in furnishing its opinion. The exchange ratio was determined
through negotiations between the management of CMC and ACT. Although BancBoston
Robertson Stephens did assist the management of CMC in those negotiations, it
was not asked by, and did not recommend to, CMC that any specific exchange
ratio constituted the appropriate exchange ratio for the merger. BancBoston
Robertson Stephens expressed no opinion as to tax consequences of the merger,
and BancBoston

                                       44
<PAGE>

Robertson Stephens' opinion as to fairness of the exchange ratio does not take
into account the particular tax status or position of any shareholder of CMC.
In furnishing its opinion, BancBoston Robertson Stephens was not engaged as an
agent or fiduciary of CMC's shareholders or any other third party.

 Opinion and Analysis of BancBoston Robertson Stephens

   In arriving at the BancBoston Robertson Stephens opinion, BancBoston
Robertson Stephens:

  . reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other
    business and financial information of CMC and ACT;

  . reviewed certain internal financial statements and other financial and
    operating data concerning CMC and ACT, including information relating to
    certain strategic, financial and operational benefits anticipated from
    the merger, prepared by the managements of CMC and ACT, respectively;

  . reviewed certain financial forecasts and other forward looking financial
    information prepared by the managements of CMC and ACT;

  . held discussions with the respective managements of CMC and ACT
    concerning the businesses, past and current operations, financial
    condition and future prospects of both CMC and ACT, independently and
    combined, including discussions with the managements of CMC and ACT
    concerning cost savings and other synergies that are expected to result
    from the merger as well as their views regarding the strategic rationale
    for the merger;

  . reviewed the financial terms and conditions set forth in the merger
    agreement;

  . reviewed the stock price and trading history of CMC and ACT;

  . compared the financial performance of CMC and ACT and the prices and
    trading activity of CMC common stock and ACT common stock with that of
    certain other publicly traded companies comparable with CMC and ACT,
    respectively;

  . compared the financial terms of the merger with the financial terms, to
    the extent publicly available, of other transactions that BancBoston
    Robertson Stephens deemed relevant;

  . reviewed the pro forma impact of the merger on ACT's earnings per share;

  . reviewed the relative contributions of CMC and ACT to the combined
    company;

  . participated in discussions and negotiations among representatives of CMC
    and ACT and their financial, legal and accounting advisors;

  . prepared a discounted cash flow analysis of CMC; and

  . made such other studies and inquiries, and reviewed such other data, as
    BancBoston Robertson Stephens deemed relevant.

   In its review and analysis, and in arriving at its opinion, BancBoston
Robertson Stephens has assumed and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of
all of the financial and other information provided to BancBoston Robertson
Stephens (including information furnished to it orally or otherwise discussed
with BancBoston Robertson Stephens by management of CMC and ACT) or publicly
available and has neither attempted to verify, nor assumed responsibility for
verifying, any of such information. BancBoston Robertson Stephens has relied
upon the assurances of management of CMC and ACT that they are not aware of any
facts that would make such information inaccurate or misleading. Furthermore,
BancBoston Robertson Stephens did not obtain or make, or assume any
responsibility for obtaining or making, any independent evaluation or appraisal
of the properties, assets or liabilities (contingent or otherwise) of CMC and
ACT, nor was BancBoston Robertson Stephens furnished with any such evaluation
or appraisal.

   With respect to the financial forecasts and projections (and the assumptions
and bases therefor, including synergies related to the transaction) for each of
CMC and ACT that BancBoston Robertson Stephens has reviewed, upon the advice of
the managements of CMC and ACT, BancBoston Robertson Stephens has assumed that:

                                       45
<PAGE>

  . such forecasts and projections, including synergies, were reasonably
    prepared in good faith on the basis of reasonable assumptions;

  . such forecasts and projections, including synergies, reflect the best
    currently available estimates and judgments as to the future financial
    condition and performance of CMC and ACT, respectively, and

  . such forecasts and projections, including synergies, will be realized in
    the amounts and in the time periods currently estimated.

   In this regard, BancBoston Robertson Stephens notes that each of CMC and ACT
face exposure to the Year 2000 problem. BancBoston Robertson Stephens has not
undertaken any independent analysis to evaluate the reliability or accuracy of
the assumptions made by the managements of CMC and ACT with respect to the
potential effect that the Year 2000 problem might have on their respective
forecasts.

   BancBoston Robertson Stephens has assumed that the merger will be
consummated upon the terms set forth in the merger agreement without material
alteration thereof, including, among other things, that the merger will be
accounted for as a pooling-of-interests business combination in accordance with
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and that the merger will be
treated as a tax-free reorganization pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. In addition, BancBoston Robertson Stephens has assumed that
the historical financial statements of each of CMC and ACT reviewed by
BancBoston Robertson Stephens have been prepared and fairly presented in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied.
BancBoston Robertson Stephens has relied as to all legal matters relevant to
rendering their opinion on the advice of counsel.

   The following is a summary of the material financial analyses performed by
BancBoston Robertson Stephens in connection with rendering the BancBoston
Robertson Stephens opinion. The summary of the financial analysis includes
information presented in tabular format. In order to understand fully the
financial analyses by BancBoston Robertson Stephens, these tables must be read
together with the text of each summary. The tables alone do not describe
completely the financial analyses.

   Comparable Company Analysis for CMC. Using publicly available information,
BancBoston Robertson Stephens analyzed, among other things, the market values
and trading multiples of CMC and the following selected publicly traded
companies in the electronic manufacturing products and services (the "EMPS")
industry: ACT, Benchmark Electronics, Inc., EFTC Corp., IEC Electronics Corp.,
Plexus Corp., and Xetel Corp. We will refer to these companies, collectively,
as the "Comparable Companies." All multiples were based on closing stock prices
as of May 7, 1999. The following table represents the comparison of:

  . total capitalization values as multiples of, among other things, calendar
    year 1998 and estimated calendar year 1999 and 2000 earnings before
    interest and taxes ("EBIT") and earnings before interest, taxes and
    depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"); and

  . total equity values as multiples of calendar year 1999 and 2000 net
    income of CMC and the Comparable Companies,

in each case based on applying a range of multiples for the Comparable
Companies to the corresponding indicated financial data for CMC, resulted in
the following CMC implied exchange ratio ranges (based on ACT's stock price on
May 7, 1999).

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Net
                                                  Income    EBITDA      EBIT
                                                 --------- --------- -----------
      <S>                                        <C>       <C>       <C>
      Management Estimates...................... .34x-.22x .27x-.98x 0.41x-1.27x
      Street Estimates.......................... .16x-.56x .21x-.58x 0.21x-0.59x
</TABLE>

   Precedent Transaction Analysis. Using publicly available information,
BancBoston Robertson Stephens analyzed the multiples paid in selected precedent
transactions, including:

     SeaMed Corp./Plexus Corp. (March 16, 1999)

     International Manufacturing Services/Celestica Inc. (November 2, 1998)

                                       46
<PAGE>

     Vero Group plc/Applied Power Inc. (May 12, 1998)

     Lockheed--Division/Benchmark Electronics Corp. (January 1, 1998)

     MCMS/Cornerstone (December 1, 1997)

     Neutronics/Flextronics International Ltd. (October 20, 1997)

     Celestica Corp./Onex (October 1, 1996)

     Force Computers/Solectron Corp. (September 26, 1996)

     TI--CMS Division/Solectron Corp. (March 1, 1996)

We will refer to these transactions, collectively, as the "Selected Precedent
Transactions."

   Applying the following range of multiples for the Selected Precedent
Transactions of LTM EBITDA to the corresponding data for CMC, based on the
Management Estimates and the Street Estimates, resulted in the following
implied exchange ratio range, based on the closing price of ACT common stock on
May 7, 1999.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Implied Exchange
                                                                     Ratio
                                                                ----------------
      <S>                                                       <C>
      Management Estimates.....................................  Not Meaningful
      Street Estimates.........................................  Not Meaningful
</TABLE>

   Premiums Analysis. Using publicly available information, BancBoston
Robertson Stephens analyzed the implied premiums paid in selected precedent
transactions in the technology sector. Applying the below listed premium ranges
to the closing prices of CMC common stock on the dates listed resulted in the
following implied exchange ratio range, based on the closing price of ACT on
May 7, 1999:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               Implied
                              Premium              Date of CMC                Exchange
        Time Period            Range              Closing Price                 Ratio
        -----------           -------             -------------               --------
      <S>                     <C>                 <C>                        <C>
      One day prior           20%-46%             May 7, 1999                0.48x-0.59x
      Four weeks prior        40%-75%             April 12, 1999             0.42x-0.53x
</TABLE>

   Contribution Analysis. BancBoston Robertson Stephens analyzed the respective
contributions of CMC and ACT to the EBIT and net income for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, based on Management Estimates and the Street
Estimates and based on the ACT Management Estimates and the CMC Management
Estimates (each as defined below) and derived implied exchange ratio ranges
therefrom, based on ACT's stock price on May 7, 1999.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                               Implied
                                                                               Exchange
                                                       Financial                Ratio
         ACT Case              CMC Case                Parameter                Range
         --------              --------                ---------               --------
      <S>                   <C>                        <C>                    <C>
      ACT Management        CMC Management             EBIT                   .34x-.98x
      CMC Management        CMC Management             EBIT                   .43x-1.15x
      ACT Management        CMC Management             Net Income             .31x-.82x
      CMC Management        CMC Management             Net Income             .37x-.96x
      ACT Management        Street                     EBIT                   .17x-.44x
      CMC Management        Street                     EBIT                   .23x-.53x
      ACT Management        Street                     Net Income             .15x-.38x
      CMC Management        Street                     Net Income             .18x-.44x
</TABLE>

   Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. BancBoston Robertson Stephens performed a
discounted cash flow analysis of the unlevered (before interest expense) after-
tax cash flows of CMC based on both Management Estimates and Street Estimates
for the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. In conducting its analysis, BancBoston
Robertson Stephens:

     (1) Discounted the estimated, unlevered after-tax cash flows through
  July 31, 2003 using a range of discounts from 15.0% to 25.0%. CMC's
  unlevered after-tax cash flows were calculated as the after-tax

                                       47
<PAGE>

  operating earnings of CMC adjusted to add back non-cash expenses and deduct
  uses of cash not reflected in the income statement.

     (2) Added to the present value of the cash flows the terminal value of
  CMC in the fiscal year ending July 31, 2003, discounted back at the same
  discount rate. The terminal value was computed by multiplying CMC's
  projected EBITDA in fiscal 2003 by terminal multiples ranging from 5.0x to
  7.0x.

The discounted cash flow valuation resulted in the following implied exchange
ratio ranges based on ACT's closing price on May 7, 1999:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Implied Exchange Ratio
                                                          ----------------------
      <S>                                                 <C>
      Management Estimates...............................      0.36x-0.88x
      Street Estimates...................................      0.05x-0.31x
</TABLE>

   Pro Forma Earnings Analysis. BancBoston Robertson Stephens analyzed the
impact of the merger on the projected earnings per share (the "EPS") of the
combined company for calendar year 1999 and calendar year
2000 based on Management Estimates and Street Estimates for CMC and ACT's
management estimates for ACT. This analysis is summarized in the following
table, dependent on the CMC stock price at the time of the closing of the
merger. Actual results achieved by the combined company may vary from projected
results and such variations may be material.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Earnings Per Share
                                                            Accretion/(Dilution)
                                                            --------------------
      <S>                                                   <C>
      CMC Management Estimates
        Calendar 1999......................................        (12.6%)
        Calendar 2000......................................         17.7%
      CMC Street Estimates
        Calendar 1999......................................        (21.8%)
        Calendar 2000......................................         (8.4%)
</TABLE>

   Comparable Company Analysis for ACT. Using publicly available information,
BancBoston Robertson Stephens analyzed, among other things, the market values
and trading multiples of ACT and the Comparable Companies. All multiples were
based on closing stock prices as of May 7, 1999. The following tables represent
the comparison of:

  . Total capitalization values as multiples of, among other things, calendar
    year 1998 and estimated calendar year 1999 and 2000 EBIT and EBITDA; and

  . Total equity value as multiples of calendar year 1998 net income and
    estimated calendar year 1999 and 2000 net income of ACT and the
    Comparable Companies,

   in each case based on ACT management estimates (the "ACT Management
Estimates"), BancBoston Robertson Stephens research estimates (the "ACT Street
Estimates") and CMC Management Estimates (the "CMC Management Estimates").
Applying a range of multiples for the Comparable Companies to the corresponding
indicated financial data for ACT resulted in the following ACT equity value per
share ranges (based on 9.5 million fully diluted shares of ACT using the
treasury method).

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             EBIT        EBITDA     Net Income
                                         ------------ ------------ ------------
      <S>                                <C>          <C>          <C>
      ACT Management Estimates.......... $1.59-$26.24 $3.25-$22.66 $2.71-$27.99
      Street Estimates.................. $1.59-$21.65 $3.25-$19.49 $2.70-$22.00
      CMC Management Estimates.......... $1.59-$21.58 $0.91-$17.11 $2.70-$22.98
</TABLE>

   No company, transaction or business used in Comparable Company Analysis for
CMC, Selected Precedent Transaction Analysis, Premiums Analysis or the
Comparable Company Analysis for ACT as a comparison is identical to CMC, ACT or
the merger. Accordingly, an analysis of the results of the foregoing is not
entirely mathematical; rather it involves complex considerations and judgments
concerning differences in financial and

                                       48
<PAGE>

operating characteristics and other factors that could affect the acquisition,
public trading and other values of the Comparable Companies or the business
segment, company or transactions to which they are compared.

   While the foregoing summary describes certain analyses and factors that
BancBoston Robertson Stephens deemed material in its presentation to the CMC
board of directors, it is not a comprehensive description of all analyses and
factors considered by BancBoston Robertson Stephens. The preparation of a
fairness opinion is a complex process that involves various determinations as
to the most appropriate and relevant methods of financial analysis and the
application of these methods to the particular circumstances and, therefore,
such an opinion is not readily susceptible to summary description. BancBoston
Robertson Stephens believes that its analyses must be considered as a whole and
that selecting portions of its analyses and of the factors considered by it,
without considering all analyses and factors, would create an incomplete view
of the evaluation process underlying the BancBoston Robertson Stephens opinion.
Several analytical methodologies were employed and no one method of analysis
should be regarded as critical to the overall conclusion reached by BancBoston
Robertson Stephens. Each analytical technique has inherent strengths and
weaknesses, and the nature of the available information may further affect the
value of particular techniques. The conclusion reached by BancBoston Robertson
Stephens is based on all analyses and factors taken as a whole and also on
application of BancBoston Robertson Stephens' own experience and judgement.
Such conclusion may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and
qualitative analysis. BancBoston Robertson Stephens therefore gives no opinion
as to the value or merit standing alone of any one or more parts of the
analysis it performed. In performing its analyses, BancBoston Robertson
Stephens considered general economic, market and financial conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of CMC and ACT. The analyses
performed by BancBoston Robertson Stephens are not necessarily indicative of
actual values or future results, which may be significantly more or less
favorable than those suggested by such analyses. Accordingly, analyses relating
to the value of a business do not purport to be appraisals or to reflect the
prices at which the business actually may be purchased. Furthermore, no opinion
is being expressed as to the prices at which shares of ACT common stock may
trade at any future time.

   CMC formally engaged BancBoston Robertson Stephens on March 18, 1999. The
engagement letter provides that, for its services, BancBoston Robertson
Stephens is entitled to receive, contingent upon consummation of the merger, a
fee equal to $1,000,000 plus one and one-quarter percent (1.25%) of the
Aggregate Transaction Value in excess of $50 million (as defined in the
engagement letter). CMC has also agreed to reimburse BancBoston Robertson
Stephens for its out-of-pocket expenses and to indemnify and hold harmless
BancBoston Robertson Stephens and its affiliates and any other person,
director, employee or agent of BancBoston Robertson Stephens or any of its
affiliates, or any person controlling BancBoston Robertson Stephens or its
affiliates for certain losses, claims, damages, expenses and liabilities
relating to or arising out of services provided by BancBoston Robertson
Stephens as financial advisor to CMC. The terms of the fee arrangement with
BancBoston Robertson Stephens, which CMC and BancBoston Robertson Stephens
believe are customary in transactions of this nature, were negotiated at arm's
length between CMC and BancBoston Robertson Stephens, and the CMC board of
directors was aware of such fee arrangements.

   BancBoston Robertson Stephens was retained based on BancBoston Robertson
Stephens' experience as a financial advisor in connection with mergers and
acquisitions and in securities valuations generally, as well as BancBoston
Robertson Stephens' investment banking relationship and familiarity with CMC.
BancBoston Robertson Stephens has provided financial advisory and investment
banking services to CMC from time to time.

   BancBoston Robertson Stephens is a nationally recognized investment banking
firm. As part of its investment banking business, BancBoston Robertson Stephens
is frequently engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, secondary
distributions of securities, private placements and other purposes. BancBoston
Robertson Stephens may actively trade the equity of CMC and ACT for its own
account and for the account of its customers and, accordingly, may at any time
hold a long or short position in such securities. BancBoston Robertson Stephens
maintains a market in the CMC common stock and regularly publishes research
reports regarding the EMPS industry and the business and securities of CMC and
other publicly traded companies in the EMPS industry.

                                       49
<PAGE>

Interests of Certain Persons in the Merger

   In considering the recommendation of the CMC board with respect to the
merger agreement, you should be aware that certain members of CMC's management
and the CMC board have interests in the merger that are different from, and in
addition to, your interests as stockholders of CMC.

   These include:

  . accelerated vesting of stock options;

  . employment arrangements and severance agreements; and

  . indemnification and directors' and officers' liability insurance.

   In discussing the fairness of the merger to the stockholders of CMC, the CMC
board took into account these interests. These interests are summarized below.

   Ownership and Voting Stock. As of the record date for the CMC special
meeting, directors and executive officers of CMC beneficially owned 2,191,712
shares of CMC common stock, or approximately 29% of the outstanding shares of
CMC common stock (excluding any shares issuable upon the exercise of options),
or 2,934,647 shares or approximately 35.0% of the outstanding shares of CMC
common stock (including shares issuable upon the exercise of options). Each of
the directors and executive officers has entered into a voting agreement dated
as of May 10, 1999 with ACT, the form of which is attached to this joint proxy
statement/prospectus as Annex E. In these agreements, the directors and
executive officers agreed to vote all shares over which they exercise voting
control in favor of approving the merger, the merger agreement and any matters
that could facilitate the merger, and against approval of any proposal made in
opposition or competition with the completion of the merger.

   As of the record date for the CMC special meeting, Matthew G. Landa,
President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of CMC, and Andrew J. Moley,
Chief Financial Officer and a director of CMC, each have options to purchase
276,667 shares of CMC common stock. As of the record date, 195,370 stock
options held by each of Mr. Landa and Mr. Moley will already be vested and
81,297 additional options will become fully vested and immediately exercisable
as a result of the merger. All such options will convert into stock options to
purchase shares of ACT common stock at the exchange ratio. See "The Merger
Agreement--Treatment of CMC Stock Options."

   Employment and Severance Agreements. Each of Mr. Landa and Mr. Moley also
have an arrangement with CMC providing for the payment of six months severance
and six months additional vesting of his stock options in the event that his
employment is terminated, after the merger or otherwise, without cause.
Moreover, CMC has an employment agreement with Jack O'Rear, Chief Operating
Officer of CMC, which provides for payment if his employment is terminated,
after the merger or otherwise, without cause.

   Executive Employment Agreements. ACT is currently discussing the terms of
continuing employment of certain senior officers of CMC. However, no such
arrangements have been finalized as of the date of this joint proxy
statement/prospectus with any officers of CMC. ACT may not finalize any of
these arrangements.

   Appointment of Directors. ACT has agreed that, immediately following the
merger, it will cause David S. Lee, the Chairman of the Board and largest
stockholder of CMC, and one other current non-employee director of CMC, to be
appointed as members of the ACT board thereby increasing the total size of the
ACT board from four to six members. Mr. Lee will be elected as a Class II
director and the other current CMC director will be elected as a Class III
director, with terms expiring at the election and qualification of directors at
the annual meetings of stockholders of ACT to be held in 2000 and 2001,
respectively. ACT and CMC intend to agree on the identity of the second
director prior to the closing of the merger.

   Indemnification. ACT has agreed to continue for six years following the
merger all rights to indemnification now existing in favor of any employee,
agent, director or officer of CMC as provided in CMC's certificate of
incorporation, by-laws and certain agreements. Subject to certain limitations,
ACT also

                                       50
<PAGE>

agreed to obtain directors' and officers' liability insurance coverage at
substantially equivalent levels of coverage as currently in effect under CMC's
existing directors' and officers' liability insurance with respect to any
claims made during such six year period.

Accounting Treatment of the Merger

   We intend the merger to qualify as a pooling of interests for accounting and
financial reporting purposes. Under this method of accounting:

  . The recorded assets and liabilities of ACT and CMC will be carried
    forward to the combined company following the merger at their recorded
    amounts; and

  . The reported operating results of the separate companies for periods
    prior to the year in which the combination occurs will be combined and
    restated as the operating results of the combined company.

   A condition to the merger is that ACT receive a letter from Deloitte &
Touche LLP, its independent auditors, which concurs with the conclusion of
ACT's management that no conditions exist that would preclude the merger from
being accounted for as a pooling of interests in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles. A similar condition to the merger is that CMC
also receive a letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, its independent
accountants, which concurs with the conclusion of CMC's management that CMC
would qualify as a poolable entity.

   ACT and CMC have caused each of their affiliates to execute a written
agreement to the effect that such person will not transfer shares of common
stock of either ACT or CMC, or, after the effective time of the merger, ACT
common stock, during the period beginning 30 days prior to the effective time
of the merger and ending on the date that ACT publishes financial statements
that reflect 30 days of operations of the combined company. Such agreements
relate to the ability of ACT to account for the merger as a pooling of
interests.

Governmental and Regulatory Approvals

   The consummation of the merger is conditioned upon the expiration or
termination of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act. Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and the regulations
thereunder, ACT and CMC may not merge unless each party files a Notification
and Report Form with the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of
Justice and the United States Federal Trade Commission, and waiting period
requirements have expired or are otherwise earlier terminated by the Antitrust
Division and the Federal Trade Commission. ACT and CMC have submitted the
required filings to the Antitrust Division and the Federal Trade Commission.

   Notwithstanding the expiration of the waiting period, at any time before or
after the completion of the merger, the Antitrust Division, the Federal Trade
Commission or others may take such action under the antitrust laws with respect
to the merger as it deems necessary or desirable in the public interest. Such
parties could seek to enjoin the consummation of the merger or seek the
divestiture of substantial assets of ACT or CMC. We do not believe that
consummation of the merger will violate the antitrust laws. We cannot assure
you, however, that a challenge to the merger on antitrust grounds by the
Antitrust Division, the Federal Trade Commission, states' attorneys general
and, under some circumstances, private parties, will not be made, or, if such a
challenge is made, what the result will be.

   The respective obligations of ACT and CMC to consummate the merger are
subject to the following conditions:

  . no court having jurisdiction over ACT or CMC shall have entered any
    injunction or other order (whether temporary, preliminary or permanent)
    which is then in force and has the effect of preventing the consummation
    of the merger;

  . there shall be no other legal or regulatory restraint or prohibition
    preventing the consummation of the merger; and

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  . there shall be no proceeding brought by any governmental entity seeking
    to prevent the consummation of the merger.

   The obligation of ACT to consummate the merger is further subject to the
condition that no proceeding shall have been instituted or be threatened by or
before, and there shall be no judgment or order (whether temporary, preliminary
or permanent) of, any court or other government entity seeking to;

  . prohibit, limit or restrict ACT's conduct or operation of CMC's business
    following the merger;

  . prohibit, limit or restrict ACT's exercise of all rights pertaining to
    its ownership or operation of CMC's business or assets; or

  . compel ACT to dispose of all or any material portion of the business or
    assets of ACT, CMC or any of their subsidiaries, as a result of the
    merger.

Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

   The following summary is of a general nature only and we do not intend it to
be, nor should you construe it to be, legal or tax advice to any holder of CMC
common stock. Accordingly, we urge you to consult your own tax advisors as to
the specific federal, state, local and foreign tax consequences to you of the
merger.

   The following discussion summarizes the material United States federal
income tax considerations relevant to the merger that are applicable to the CMC
stockholders. This discussion is based on currently existing provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code, existing Treasury Regulations issued thereunder and
current administrative rulings and pronouncements and judicial decisions, all
of which are subject to change. Any such changes, which may or may not be
retroactive, could alter the tax consequences as described herein. Accordingly,
we cannot assure you that the Internal Revenue Service or the courts will not
attempt to apply the tax law in a manner different from that discussed below.

   Holders of CMC common stock should be aware that this discussion does not
deal with all United States federal income tax considerations that may be
relevant to a particular stockholder in light of their specific circumstances,
such as stockholders who are:

  . dealers in securities;

  . tax-exempt organizations;

  . subject to the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Internal Revenue
    Code;

  . foreign persons or entities;

  . financial institutions; or

  . insurance companies.

Furthermore, this discussion does not address the tax consequences to
stockholders:

  . who do not hold their shares of CMC common stock as capital assets;

  . who acquired their shares in connection with stock option or stock
    purchase plans or in other compensatory transactions; or

  . who hold shares of CMC common stock as part of an integrated investment,
    including a "straddle," comprised of shares of CMC common stock and one
    or more other positions.

   In addition, the following discussion does not address the tax consequences
of the merger under foreign, state or local tax laws, the tax consequences of
transactions effectuated prior or subsequent to, or concurrently with, the
merger, whether or not any such transactions are undertaken in connection with
the merger, including without limitation any transaction in which shares of CMC
common stock are acquired or shares of ACT common stock are disposed of, or the
tax consequences to holders of options, warrants or similar rights to

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<PAGE>

acquire CMC common stock, including the assumption by ACT of outstanding
options, warrants and subscriptions to acquire CMC common stock.

   Consummation of the merger is conditioned upon the receipt of opinions at
the effective time by ACT from Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP and by CMC from
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C., respective counsel to ACT and CMC that
the merger will qualify under Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code as a
"reorganization" for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Counsel will base such
opinions on certain representations as to factual matters made by ACT and CMC.
Such representations, if incorrect in certain material respects, could
jeopardize the conclusions reached in the opinions. Neither ACT nor CMC is
currently aware of any facts or circumstances which would cause any such
representations made to counsel to be untrue or incorrect in any material
respect. Any opinion of counsel is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service
or the courts. We do not intend to request a ruling from the Internal Revenue
Service with respect to the merger. Accordingly, the Internal Revenue Service
could challenge the conclusions of the anticipated opinions and a court could
sustain such a challenge.

   Based on the anticipated opinions discussed above, subject to the
assumptions and limitations described in the preceding paragraphs, the material
U.S. federal income tax consequences that will result from the merger are as
follows:

  . neither ACT nor CMC will recognize any income, gain or loss solely as a
    result of the merger;

  . a CMC stockholder will not recognize any income, gain or loss upon the
    receipt of ACT common stock solely in exchange for such stockholder's
    shares of CMC common stock pursuant to the merger (except as described
    below with respect to cash that is received in lieu of fractional
    shares);

  . a CMC stockholder's tax basis for the ACT common stock received pursuant
    to the merger will equal such CMC stockholder's tax basis in the CMC
    common stock exchanged therefor (adjusted with respect to fractional
    shares); and

  . a CMC stockholder's holding period for the ACT common stock received
    pursuant to the merger will include the holding period of the CMC common
    stock surrendered in exchange therefor, provided that the CMC common
    stock was held as a capital asset at the effective time.

   A CMC stockholder who receives cash in lieu of fractional shares will be
treated as having received such fractional shares pursuant to the merger and
then as having exchanged such fractional shares for cash in a transaction
generally giving rise to capital gain or loss. The amount of any capital gain
or loss attributable to such deemed exchange of fractional shares will be equal
to the difference between the cash received in lieu of fractional shares and
the portion of the tax basis of the CMC common stock surrendered that is
allocated to such fractional shares. Such gain or loss:

  . will be treated as short term capital gain or loss and taxed at ordinary
    income tax rates for individuals and other noncorporate taxpayers who
    held CMC common stock at the effective time of the merger for one year or
    less; and

  . will be treated as long term capital gain or loss and taxed generally at
    a statutory maximum rate of 20% for individuals and other noncorporate
    taxpayers who held CMC common stock at the effective time of the merger
    for more than one year.

   A successful Internal Revenue Service challenge to the "reorganization"
status of the merger would result in a CMC stockholder recognizing gain or loss
with respect to each share of CMC common stock surrendered in the merger equal
to the difference between the CMC stockholder's basis in such share and the
fair market value, as of the effective time of the merger, of the ACT common
stock received in exchange therefor. In such event, a CMC stockholder's
aggregate tax basis in the ACT common stock so received would equal its fair
market value, and the CMC stockholder's holding period for such stock would
begin the day after the effective time of the merger.

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<PAGE>

   Under the U.S. backup withholding rules, a CMC stockholder may be subject to
backup withholding at the rate of 31% unless the stockholder:

  . is a corporation or comes within other exempt categories and, when
    required, demonstrates this fact; or

  . provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies that such
    stockholder is not subject to backup withholding and otherwise complies
    with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules.

   Any amount withheld under these rules will be credited against the
stockholder's federal income tax liability. ACT may require CMC stockholders to
establish an exemption from backup withholding or to make arrangements that are
satisfactory to ACT to provide for the payment of backup withholding. A
stockholder that does not provide ACT with its current taxpayer identification
number may be subject to penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

Ownership Interest of CMC Stockholders after the Merger

   Based on 7,681,798 shares of CMC common stock and 9,091,600 shares of ACT
common stock outstanding as of the record date, there will be approximately
12.9 million shares of ACT common stock outstanding upon consummation of the
merger, of which the former CMC stockholders will own an aggregate of
approximately 30%.

Delisting of CMC Common Stock; Listing of ACT Common Stock

   CMC common stock is currently listed on the Nasdaq National Market under the
symbol "CMCI." If the merger is consummated, the shares of CMC common stock
will be delisted from the Nasdaq National Market and will be deregistered under
the Securities Exchange Act.

   ACT has agreed to cause the shares of ACT common stock issued in connection
with the merger and upon exercise of the options to purchase CMC common stock
assumed by ACT to be listed on the Nasdaq National Market. It is also a
condition to the obligations of both ACT and CMC to consummate the merger that
such additional listing on the Nasdaq National Market shall have been obtained.

Appraisal Rights

   The holders of CMC common stock are not entitled to any appraisal rights
with respect to the merger because shares of CMC common stock are, and shares
of ACT common stock to be issued in the merger will be, listed on the Nasdaq
National Market.

           CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

   We believe this document contains "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. These statements are
subject to risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions
of management of ACT and CMC, based on information currently available to each
company's management. When we use words such as "believes," "expects,"
"anticipates," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "should," "likely" or similar
expressions, we are making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking
statements include the information concerning possible or assumed future
benefits of the merger and results of operations of ACT and CMC set forth under
the following sections or elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus:

  . under "Summary," "Selected Historical and Selected Unaudited Pro Forma
    Combined Financial Data," "Risk Factors," "The Merger--Background of the
    Merger," "--Joint Reasons for the Merger," "--ACT's Reasons for the
    Merger," "--CMC's Reasons for the Merger," "--Opinion of Deutsche Banc
    Alex. Brown, Financial Advisor to ACT," "--Opinion of BancBoston
    Robertson Stephens, Financial Advisor to CMC," and "Unaudited Pro Forma
    Condensed Combining Financial Statements," and

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<PAGE>

  . under "ACT Business," "CMC Business," "ACT Management's Discussion and
    Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and "CMC
    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
    of Operations."

   Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. They involve
risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The future results and stockholder values
of ACT, CMC or the combined company may differ materially from those expressed
in the forward-looking statements. Many of the factors that will determine
these results and values are beyond our ability to control or predict.
Stockholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on any forward-looking
statements. For those statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor
for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act.

   For a discussion of some of the factors that may cause actual results to
differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements,
please read carefully the information under "Risk Factors" beginning on page
14. In addition to the Risk Factors and other important factors discussed
elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, you should understand that
the following important factors could affect the future results of the combined
company and could cause results to differ materially from those suggested by
the forward-looking statements:

  . increased competitive pressures, both domestically and internationally,
    which may affect sales of the combined company's products and services
    and impede the combined company's ability to maintain its market share
    and pricing goals;

  . changes in United States, global or regional economic conditions which
    may affect sales of the combined company's products and increase costs
    associated with manufacturing and distributing such products;

  . changes in United States and global financial and equity markets,
    including significant interest rate fluctuations, which may increase the
    cost of external financing for the combined company's operations, and
    currency fluctuations, which may negatively impact the combined company's
    reportable income;

  . changes in laws or regulations, third party relations and approvals, and
    decisions of courts, regulators and governmental bodies, which may
    adversely affect the combined company's business or ability to compete;
    and

  . other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in the
    combined company's public announcements and Securities and Exchange
    Commission filings.

   This list of factors that may affect future performance and the accuracy of
forward-looking statements is illustrative, but by no means exhaustive.
Accordingly, all forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the
understanding of their inherent uncertainty.

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<PAGE>

                              THE MERGER AGREEMENT

   The following is a brief summary of the material provisions of the merger
agreement, a copy of which is attached as Annex A and is incorporated by
reference in this joint proxy statement/prospectus. The summary is qualified in
its entirety by reference to the merger agreement. We urge you to read the
merger agreement in its entirety for a more complete description of the terms
and conditions of the merger.

The Merger

   The merger agreement provides that East Acquisition Corp., a Delaware
corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT, will merge with and into CMC.
At the effective time of the merger, CMC will continue as the surviving
corporation in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law and will
become a wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT. At the effective time of the merger,
all the property, rights, privileges, immunities, powers and franchises of East
Acquisition Corp. and CMC before the merger will vest in CMC as the surviving
corporation, and all debts, liabilities and duties of East Acquisition Corp.
and CMC before the merger will become the debts, liabilities and duties of CMC
as the surviving corporation. The merger will be consummated and the effective
time of the merger will occur as promptly as practicable after the satisfaction
or waiver of all conditions in the merger agreement, including receipt of
stockholder approval, and after we file a certificate of merger with the
Secretary of the State of Delaware. We presently expect that the consummation
of the merger will occur and the merger will become effective in late July
1999.

Conversion of Securities

   At the effective time of the merger, each share of CMC common stock issued
and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time will be converted into
the right to receive 0.50 of a share of validly issued, fully paid and non-
assessable shares of ACT common stock. Shares, if any, held in the treasury of
CMC or owned by ACT, East Acquisition Corp. or any direct or indirect wholly-
owned subsidiary of ACT or CMC will be cancelled. Cash will be paid with
respect to any fractional shares of ACT common stock to which a CMC stockholder
would otherwise be entitled based on the closing price of the ACT common stock
for the trading day immediately prior to the effective time of the merger. See
"The Merger Agreement--Exchange of Stock Certificates" and "--Treatment of CMC
Stock Options" for a description of the exchange of CMC common stock for ACT
common stock and the assumption by ACT of CMC stock options previously granted
by CMC under its option plans.

Treatment of CMC Stock Options

   The merger agreement provides that at the effective time of the merger, each
outstanding option to purchase shares of CMC common stock issued under CMC's
Amended and Restated 1990 Equity Incentive Plan, whether or not then
exercisable will, by virtue of the merger and without any action on the part of
the holder thereof, be assumed by ACT and converted into an option to purchase
shares of ACT common stock. The number of shares of ACT common stock subject to
each assumed CMC stock option will be equal to the product of the exchange
ratio of 0.50 multiplied by the number of shares of CMC common stock subject to
such option immediately prior to the effective time of the merger. Any
fractional shares of ACT common stock resulting from such adjustment will be
rounded down to the nearest share. The exercise price per share of ACT common
stock under each assumed CMC stock option will equal the exercise price per
share of the CMC common stock under the original stock option divided by the
exchange ratio of 0.50. The exercise price will be rounded up to the nearest
whole cent. The remaining terms and conditions of each CMC stock option,
including vesting, in effect immediately prior to the effective time of the
merger, will remain unchanged. As of the record date, there were approximately
1.5 million outstanding options to purchase shares of CMC common stock.

   CMC has agreed to shorten the offering period under its 1996 Employee Stock
Purchase Plan so that its offering period terminates on the last trading day on
which ACT common stock is traded prior to the effective

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<PAGE>

time of the merger. CMC has also agreed to terminate such plan as of the
effective time of the merger. On the termination of the offering period for
such plan, CMC will apply the funds credited under such plan to each
participant's account to purchase shares of CMC common stock. These shares will
be converted into the right to receive ACT common stock based on the exchange
ratio at the effective time of the merger.

Exchange of Stock Certificates

   Detailed instructions, including a transmittal letter, will be mailed to CMC
stockholders promptly following the effective time of the merger as to the
method of exchanging certificates formerly representing shares of CMC common
stock. CMC stockholders should not send certificates representing their shares
to anyone prior to the receipt of the transmittal letter.

   ACT has designated American Stock Transfer and Trust Company to act as
exchange agent under the merger agreement. Promptly following the effective
time of the merger, ACT will deliver, in trust, to American Stock Transfer,
certificates evidencing the shares of ACT common stock issuable pursuant to the
merger agreement, as well as the cash to be paid in lieu of fractional ACT
shares.

   At the effective time of the merger, all shares of CMC common stock will be
cancelled and will cease to exist. At the effective time, the stock transfer
books of CMC will be closed and no transfer of shares of CMC common stock will
thereafter be made. As soon as practicable thereafter, ACT will cause American
Stock Transfer to mail to each holder of record of CMC common stock:

  . a letter of transmittal specifying that delivery will be effected, and
    risk of loss and title to the CMC stock certificates will pass, only upon
    receipt of the CMC stock certificates by American Stock Transfer; and

  . instructions for use in surrendering such CMC stock certificates in
    exchange for the certificates evidencing ACT common stock and cash in
    lieu of any fractional shares.

   Upon surrender of a CMC stock certificate for cancellation to American Stock
Transfer, together with a duly completed and validly executed letter of
transmittal, the holder of a CMC stock certificate will be entitled to receive
in exchange therefor a certificate evidencing the number of whole shares of ACT
common stock equal to the product of the exchange ratio of 0.50 multiplied by
the number of shares of CMC common stock formerly represented by the
surrendered CMC certificate. Cash will be paid with respect to any fractional
shares of ACT common stock to which a CMC stockholder would otherwise be
entitled, based on the closing price of the ACT common stock for the trading
day immediately prior to the effective time of the merger.

   No dividends or other distributions, if any, with a record date after the
effective time of the merger, payable to holders of ACT common stock, shall be
payable to any person who has not converted his or her CMC stock certificates.
Subject to applicable law, if ACT declares a dividend or other distribution
after the effective time of the merger, former CMC stockholders will be
entitled to receive such payment following surrender of their CMC stock
certificates. In no event will the person entitled to receive such dividends or
other distributions be entitled to receive interest thereon.

   If any cash is to be paid to, or ACT stock certificate issued in, a name
other than that in which the surrendered CMC stock certificate is registered,
the surrendered CMC stock certificate must be properly endorsed and otherwise
in proper form for transfer. The person requesting such exchange also must pay
to American Stock Transfer any applicable transfer or other taxes.

   Neither ACT nor American Stock Transfer will be liable to any holder of a
certificate for shares of ACT common stock and cash payable in lieu of any
fractional share delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable
abandoned property, escheat or similar law.

   A stockholder must provide an appropriate affidavit to American Stock
Transfer if any stock certificates are lost, stolen or destroyed, in order to
receive the merger consideration for such certificates. ACT may require the
owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed certificate to deliver a bond as
indemnity against any claim that may be made against ACT or American Stock
Transfer with respect to any such certificate.

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<PAGE>

   ACT or American Stock Transfer will be entitled to deduct and withhold from
the consideration payable in the merger to any holder of CMC common stock such
amounts as are required under any tax law. Any such withheld amounts will be
treated for all purposes of the merger agreement as having been paid to the
holder of CMC common stock.

Representations and Warranties

   ACT, East Acquisition Corp. and CMC have made representations and warranties
in the merger agreement relating to, among other things:

  . their organization and the organization of their subsidiaries;

  . the authorization, execution, delivery and enforceability of the merger
    agreement and related matters;

  . their capital structures;

  . their subsidiaries and their investments in other companies;

  . the absence of conflicts under their charters, bylaws and various laws,
    rules or agreements;

  . required consents and approvals;

  . compliance with laws and permits;

  . documents and financial statements filed with the Securities and Exchange
    Commission and the accuracy of information contained therein;

  . the absence of undisclosed liabilities;

  . the absence of certain changes or events;

  . litigation;

  . taxes and tax returns;

  . title to assets;

  . the accuracy of information contained in this joint proxy
    statement/prospectus;

  . board approval;

  . the opinions received from financial advisors regarding the merger;

  . brokers and finders' fees;

  . the votes of stockholders required to approve the merger;

  . change of control payments;

  . eligibility for the pooling of interests accounting method; and

  . the completeness of the representations and warranties.

   The merger agreement also contains representations and warranties made by
CMC relating to:

  . transactions with affiliates;

  . contracts;

  . labor matters;

  . intellectual property;

  . environmental matters;

  . employee benefit plans;

  . minute books;

  . orders, commitments and returns;

  . customers;

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  . suppliers;

  . insurance;

  . the inapplicability of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation
    Law;

  . accounts receivable;

  . inventory;

  . real property; and

  . restrictions on business activities.

Certain Covenants

 Conduct of Business Prior to the Merger

   ACT and CMC have agreed that, until the earlier of the termination of the
merger agreement or the effective time of the merger, each of ACT and CMC will:

  . carry on its business in the usual, regular and ordinary course;

  . pay its debts and taxes when due, subject to good faith disputes;

  . pay or perform other material obligations when due; and

  . preserve intact its present business organization, keep available the
    services of its present officers and key employees and preserve its
    relationships with customers, suppliers, distributors and others with
    which it has business dealings.

   During the same period, ACT and CMC have agreed that each of ACT and CMC and
their respective subsidiaries will not, without the prior written consent of
the other party:

  . amend its charter or organizational documents;

  . take any action that would either cause its representations or warranties
    set forth in the merger agreement to be untrue and incorrect or prevent
    it from performing its covenants under the merger agreement;

  . declare or pay any dividend or other distribution in respect of any of
    its capital stock other than between any wholly-owned subsidiary and ACT
    or CMC;

  . purchase or acquire any shares of its capital stock;

  . split, combine, reclassify or redeem any shares of its capital stock;

  . amend, accelerate or change the period of exercisability or vesting of
    any option granted under any option plan of ACT or CMC, as the case may
    be, or authorize cash payments in exchange for any options granted under
    any of such plans; or

  . take any action or fail to take any action which would jeopardize the
    treatment of the merger as a pooling of interests for accounting purposes
    under generally accepted accounting principles.

   During the same period, CMC has agreed that each of CMC and its subsidiaries
also will not, without the prior written consent of ACT :

  . increase the compensation of directors, officers or employees or
    otherwise increase employee benefits, or hire any new officer or director
    level employee, other than salary and benefit increases to employees
    other than executive officers in the ordinary course of business;

  . grant any severance or termination pay to, or enter into employment or
    severance agreements with, any officer, director or employee, other than
    with employees in the ordinary course of business;

  . issue, sell, pledge, dispose of or encumber or authorize any of the
    foregoing of additional shares of its capital stock or securities
    convertible into capital stock, or any subscriptions, rights, warrants or
    options to acquire any convertible securities or capital stock, or any
    other securities in substitution for outstanding shares of CMC common
    stock, other than upon exercise of outstanding stock options or pursuant
    to the CMC employee stock purchase plan;

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<PAGE>

  . sell or encumber any of its properties or assets, except for sales of
    assets in the ordinary course of business and the disposition of obsolete
    or worthless assets;

  . sell, lease, license or otherwise dispose of or transfer any intellectual
    property or adversely amend any agreement regarding intellectual
    property;

  . acquire any entities, businesses or assets, except for acquisitions of
    assets in the ordinary course of business or acquire any equity
    securities of any such entity;

  . incur, assume or prepay any debt or sell any debt securities or warrants,
    or guarantee or become responsible for the obligations of any other
    person, make any loans, capital contributions or investments in any other
    person, other than between or with any wholly-owned subsidiaries or in
    the ordinary course of business;

  . make, change or rescind any material tax elections, settle or compromise
    any tax claims or agree to an extension or waiver of a statute of
    limitations for any tax assessment, except to the extent any such
    settlement has been reserved for in CMC's financial statements;

  . pay, discharge or satisfy any claim, liability or obligation other than
    in the ordinary course of business and other than amounts adequately
    reserved in CMC's financial statements;

  . except as required by law or as couldn't reasonably be expected to have a
    material adverse effect on CMC, terminate or amend any of the CMC
    employee benefit plans;

  . enter into any material partnership arrangements, joint development
    agreements, strategic alliances or operating leases;

  . materially reduce its existing insurance coverages;

  . enter into or amend any transaction or agreement with any director,
    executive officer or affiliate;

  . change its methods of accounting unless required by generally accepted
    accounting principles or the Securities and Exchange Commission or
    revalue any of its assets;

  . enter into or modify, terminate or assign any rights under any of its
    material contracts except in the ordinary course of business or violate
    any material contract which could have a material adverse effect on CMC;

  . make any capital expenditures that in the aggregate exceed $100,000;

  . initiate any litigation or arbitration proceeding other than for routine
    collection of bills or where the failure to initiate a suit could result
    in the material impairment of some aspect of its business; or

  . agree to take any of the foregoing actions.

   During the same period, ACT has agreed that each of ACT and its subsidiaries
will not, without the prior consent of CMC:

  . issue or sell any shares of capital stock except pursuant to its option
    plans and except up to an aggregate of 1,817,540 shares under certain
    circumstances.

 No Solicitation

   CMC has agreed to terminate any existing solicitation, discussion or
negotiation with any third party regarding an acquisition transaction. CMC has
also agreed that it will not directly or indirectly:

  . solicit, initiate or encourage an acquisition proposal, as described
    below;

  . engage in negotiations or discussions with, or provide any non-public
    information to, or afford access to the properties, books or records of
    CMC and its subsidiaries to, any third party regarding an acquisition
    proposal; or

  . enter into any agreement with respect to an acquisition proposal.

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   However, CMC and the CMC board may furnish non-public information to, or
afford access to the properties, books or records of CMC and its subsidiaries
to, and/or participate in discussions or negotiations with, any third party
that has made an unsolicited acquisition proposal if the CMC board:

  . determines in good faith, after consulting with its financial advisor,
    that the acquisition proposal is reasonably capable of being completed on
    the terms proposed and would, if consummated, result in a transaction
    more favorable to CMC stockholders from a financial point of view than
    the merger;

  . determines in good faith, after consulting with its outside legal
    counsel, that the failure to take such action would be inconsistent with
    the CMC board's fiduciary duties under applicable law;

  . notifies ACT of such determination by the board and provides ACT with a
    copy of the proposal and, to the extent not already received by ACT, all
    documents and information given to the third party; and

  . receives from the third party prior to taking such action a
    confidentiality agreement at least as restrictive as to confidential
    information as the Confidentiality Agreement, dated September 8, 1998,
    between ACT and CMC.

   When used in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, the term "acquisition
proposal" means, with respect to CMC, any proposal or offer or indication of
interest from any entity, other than the merger, relating to any:

  . sale or transfer of any significant portion of the assets of CMC;

  . acquisition of 20% or more of the outstanding capital stock of CMC; or

  . merger or other business combination involving CMC.

   CMC has agreed to notify ACT immediately of any acquisition proposal or any
notice that any person is considering an acquisition proposal, or any request
for non-public information or for access to the properties, books or records of
CMC or its subsidiaries in connection with an acquisition proposal or by any
person whose efforts to formulate an acquisition proposal would be assisted
thereby or who could be expected to make an acquisition proposal, and to
furnish to ACT the status and details of any acquisition proposal, request or
communications related thereto, and a copy if it is in writing, or a written
summary if it is not in writing.

   The CMC board may generally not withdraw or modify, in a manner adverse to
ACT, its approval or recommendation of the merger agreement or the merger.
However, if CMC receives an acquisition proposal, the CMC board may withdraw or
modify its approval or recommendation of the merger agreement or the merger
only if the CMC board:

  . determines in good faith, after consulting its financial advisor, that
    such acquisition proposal is reasonably capable of being completed on
    substantially the terms proposed and would, if consummated, result in a
    transaction more favorable to CMC's stockholders from a financial point
    of view than the merger; and

  . determines in good faith, after consulting its outside legal counsel,
    that the failure to take such action would be inconsistent with its
    fiduciary duties under applicable law.

   The ACT board may withdraw or modify its approval or recommendation of the
merger agreement or the merger only if the ACT board determines, after
consulting its outside legal counsel, that the failure to take such action
would be inconsistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law.

   Both the CMC and ACT boards have agreed to submit the merger agreement to
their stockholders for approval, whether or not their respective boards at any
time subsequently determines that the merger agreement is no longer advisable
or recommends that the stockholders of their company reject it or otherwise
modifies or withdraws its recommendation. Unless the CMC or ACT board has
withdrawn its recommendation of the merger agreement in compliance with the
foregoing, each of CMC and ACT have agreed to use its commercially reasonable
efforts to secure the required vote of its stockholders in favor of the merger
and the merger agreement.

                                       61
<PAGE>

 Governmental Approvals

   ACT and CMC have agreed to promptly prepare and file all necessary
documentation to obtain as promptly as practicable all approvals and
authorizations of all third parties and governmental entities which are
necessary or advisable to consummate the merger, including all consents under
material contracts and filings required under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act or any
applicable foreign anti-trust law or regulation.

Indemnification and Insurance

   ACT has agreed that for a period of six years after the effective time of
the merger, it will honor in all material respects the indemnification
obligations of CMC existing on May 10, 1999 in favor of any employee, agent,
director or officer of CMC in respect of acts or omissions occurring on or
prior to the effective time of the merger, as provided in CMC's certificate of
incorporation or by-laws or pursuant to certain agreements. The merger
agreement further provides that in the event any claim or claims are asserted
or made within such six-year period, all rights to indemnification in respect
of any such claim will continue until the final disposition of such claim.

   ACT has also agreed for a period of six years after the effective time of
the merger to maintain in effect directors' and officers' liability insurance,
substantially similar to CMC's policy in effect immediately prior to the
effective time of the merger, to provide coverage for events occurring on or
prior to the effective time. ACT is not obligated to pay a premium for such
policy in excess of 150% of the premium currently paid by CMC. If ACT cannot
obtain the required amount of insurance coverage for such premium, ACT has
agreed to get the best coverage available for such an annual premium.

Affiliate Agreements

   Prior to the execution of the merger agreement, ACT and CMC provided each
other with a list of those persons who are "affiliates" within the meaning of
Securities and Exchange Commission rules. ACT and CMC have each delivered to
the other an executed affiliate agreement from each of its affiliates. Under
these agreements, each CMC affiliate has agreed not to dispose of his or her
shares of ACT common stock received in the merger except pursuant to an
effective registration statement or in compliance with Securities and Exchange
Commission rules. Each ACT and CMC affiliate also agreed not to dispose of his
or her shares of ACT common stock and CMC common stock in a manner that would
preclude the merger qualifying for pooling of interests accounting treatment.
ACT will place appropriate legends on the certificates evidencing any ACT
common stock to be received by such CMC affiliates pursuant to the terms of the
merger agreement, and will issue appropriate stop transfer instructions to the
transfer agent for the ACT common stock, consistent with the terms of the
affiliate agreements.

ACT's Board of Directors After the Merger

   At or immediately following the effective time, ACT will take such action as
may be necessary to increase the size of the ACT board of directors from four
to six members and to cause David S. Lee, the Chairman of the Board and largest
stockholder of CMC, and one other current non-employee director of CMC to be
appointed as members of the ACT board. Mr. Lee will be appointed as a Class II
director and the other current CMC director will be appointed as a Class III
director, with terms expiring at the election and qualification of directors at
the annual meeting of stockholders of ACT to be held in 2000 and 2001,
respectively. ACT and CMC intend to agree on the identity of the second
director prior to the closing of the merger.

Conditions to Obligations to Effect the Merger

   The respective obligations of ACT and CMC to effect the merger are subject
to the satisfaction or waiver of several conditions, including:

  . the stockholders of ACT and CMC shall have approved and adopted the
    merger agreement;

  . no order, executive order, stay, decree, judgment or injunction, or
    statute, rule or regulation shall be in effect that prohibits the
    consummation of the merger, nor shall any proceeding seeking the
    foregoing be pending;

                                       62
<PAGE>

  . any waiting period applicable to the merger under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
    Act shall have terminated or expired;

  . ACT and CMC shall have received opinions from Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault,
    LLP and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. to the effect that the
    merger will constitute a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368
    of the Code;

  . the Registration Statement on Form S-4 of which this joint proxy
    statement/prospectus is a part shall have become effective and not the
    subject of any stop order;

  . the shares of ACT common stock to be issued in connection with the merger
    will have been approved for listing on the Nasdaq National Market; and

  . ACT and CMC shall have received letters from Deloitte & Touche LLP and
    PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, respectively, to the effect that the merger
    qualifies for pooling of interests accounting treatment under generally
    accepted accounting principles.

   Except as may be waived in writing by CMC, the obligation of CMC to effect
the merger is also subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following
conditions:

  . the representations and warranties of ACT in the merger agreement shall
    be true and correct in all respects as of the date of the effective time
    of the merger except for:

    (a) changes contemplated by the merger agreement;

    (b) those representations and warranties that address matters only as
        of a particular date, other than the date of the merger agreement,
        which shall remain true and correct as of such particular date; and

    (c) where the failure to be true and correct would not have a material
        adverse effect on ACT;

  . ACT shall have performed in all material respects all obligations
    required to be performed by it under the merger agreement at or prior to
    the effective time of the merger;

  . CMC shall have received a certificate executed on behalf of ACT by the
    President and Chief Financial Officer of ACT as to the above two
    conditions;

  . ACT shall have obtained all approvals and consents required for the
    consummation of the merger except where such failure could not have a
    material adverse effect on CMC, ACT or the surviving corporation or on
    the ability of the parties to consummate the merger;

  . there shall have been no material adverse effect on ACT; and

  . CMC shall have received an affiliate agreement from each of the parties
    deemed to be an affiliate of ACT.

   Except as may be waived in writing by ACT, the obligation of ACT to effect
the merger is also subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the following
conditions:

  . the representations and warranties of CMC in the merger agreement shall
    be true and correct in all respects as of the date of the effective time
    of the merger except for:

    (a) changes contemplated by the merger agreement;

    (b) those representations and warranties that address matters only as
        of a particular date other than the date of the merger agreement,
        which shall remain true and correct as of such particular date; and

    (c) where the failure to be true and correct would not have a material
        adverse effect on CMC;

  . CMC shall have performed in all material respects all obligations
    required to be performed by it under the merger agreement at or prior to
    the effective time of the merger;

  . ACT shall have received a certificate executed on behalf of CMC by the
    President and Chief Financial Officer of CMC as to the above two
    conditions;

                                       63
<PAGE>

  . CMC shall have obtained all approvals and consents required for the
    consummation of the merger except where such failure could not have a
    material adverse effect on CMC, ACT or the surviving corporation or on
    the ability of the parties to consummate the merger;

  . no proceeding may be pending or threatened before or by any court or
    governmental entity, nor shall there be any judgment, order or
    injunction, seeking to prohibit, limit or restrict ACT's operation of the
    business of CMC, or ACT's ability to exercise all rights relating to its
    ownership of CMC's assets, after the merger or seeking to force ACT to
    dispose of a portion of the business of ACT or CMC as a result of the
    merger;

  . there shall have been no material adverse effect on CMC;

  . ACT shall have received an affiliate agreement from each of the parties
    deemed to be an affiliate of CMC; and

  . CMC shall have delivered a tax clearance certificate to ACT.

Termination; Fees and Expenses

 Termination

   The merger agreement provides that prior to the consummation of the merger,
the merger agreement may be terminated:

  . by mutual written consent of ACT and CMC;

  . by either ACT or CMC if:

    (a) the merger is not consummated by September 30, 1999, so long as the
        terminating party did not prevent consummation due to its willful
        breach of the merger agreement;

    (b) the other company does not receive the required stockholder
        approvals at their special meeting;

    (c) any court or other governmental entity has issued an order, decree
        or ruling which cannot be appealed and which makes the merger
        illegal or prohibits the consummation of the merger; or

    (d) if CMC accepts an acquisition proposal which the CMC board
        determines in accordance with the terms of the merger agreement is
        more favorable than the merger or CMC's board recommends a superior
        acquisition proposal to its stockholders;

  . so long as ACT is not in willful breach of the merger agreement, by ACT
    if:

    (a) the CMC board withholds its recommendation of the merger and the
        merger agreement to the CMC stockholders or withdraws or modifies
        its recommendation, in a manner adverse to ACT;

    (b) CMC fails to call and hold the CMC stockholder meeting by September
        30, 1999 and CMC is at that time in willful breach of the merger
        agreement;

    (c) there has been a breach of the representations, warranties
        covenants or agreements by CMC such that certain conditions to
        closing the merger would not be satisfied and such breach is not
        curable, or, if curable, is not cured within fifteen business days
        after written notice of the breach to CMC; or

    (d) there shall have occurred a material adverse effect with respect to
        CMC which is not curable, or, if curable, is not cured within
        fifteen business days after written notice thereof; or


  . so long as CMC is not in willful breach of the merger agreement by CMC
    if:

    (a) the ACT board withholds its recommendation of the merger and the
        merger agreement to the ACT stockholders or withdraws or modifies
        its recommendation, in a manner adverse to CMC;

    (b) ACT fails to call and hold the ACT stockholder meeting by September
        30, 1999 and ACT is at that time in willful breach of the merger
        agreement;

    (c) there has been a breach of the representations, warranties,
        covenants or agreements by ACT such that certain conditions to
        closing the merger would not be satisfied and such breach is not
        curable, or, if curable, is not cured within fifteen business days
        after written notice of the breach to ACT; or

                                       64
<PAGE>

    (d) there shall have occurred a material adverse effect with respect to
        ACT which is not curable, or, if curable, is not cured within
        fifteen business days after written notice thereof.

 Fees and Expenses

   CMC has agreed to pay ACT a termination fee of $1.5 million if any of the
following events occur:

  . ACT terminates the merger agreement because the CMC board fails to
    recommend approval of the merger and the merger agreement to CMC
    stockholders or withdraws or modifies its recommendation in a manner
    adverse to ACT;

  . ACT terminates the merger agreement because of a breach of a
    representation, warranty, covenant or agreement by CMC which is not cured
    in fifteen business days, if prior to such breach, there was an
    acquisition proposal;


  . ACT terminates the merger agreement because CMC fails to call and hold
    the CMC stockholders meeting by September 30, 1999 and CMC at the time is
    in willful breach of the merger agreement;

  . ACT or CMC terminates the merger agreement because CMC accepts a superior
    acquisition proposal or CMC's board recommends a superior acquisition
    proposal to its stockholders; or

  . ACT terminates the merger agreement because the stockholders of CMC fail
    to approve the merger and the merger agreement, if prior to such failure,
    there was an acquisition proposal.

   CMC believes that termination fees are not an unusual feature of
transactions such as the merger. The amount of the termination fee was
determined by arm's length negotiation between ACT and CMC. In determining the
fairness of the merger to the stockholders of CMC, the CMC board took into
account the amount of the termination fee in relation to the size of the
transaction and the circumstances in which it would be paid.

Amendment and Waiver

   ACT and CMC may amend the merger agreement at any time prior to the
effective time of the merger, but, after approval of the merger agreement by
the CMC and ACT stockholders, no amendment may be made that by law requires
further approval by such stockholders without such further approval. Amendments
must be in writing and signed by each of ACT, East Acquisition Corp. and CMC.

   At any time prior to the effective time of the merger, or any other date
agreed to by ACT and CMC, ACT and CMC may:

  . extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or other
    acts required by the merger agreement;

  . waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties contained in
    the merger agreement or in any document delivered in connection with the
    merger agreement; and

  . waive compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained in
    the merger agreement.

Extensions or waivers must be in writing and signed by the party granting the
extension or waiver.

Voting Agreements

 Voting Agreements of CMC Stockholders

   The directors and executive officers of CMC, who collectively beneficially
hold approximately 29% of the outstanding CMC common stock as of the record
date (excluding any shares issuable upon the exercise of options), entered into
voting agreements with ACT and East Acquisition Corp. The form of voting
agreement is attached as Annex E to this joint proxy statement/prospectus. Each
CMC director and executive officer agreed to vote all of his shares of CMC
common stock:

  . for the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the merger;

                                       65
<PAGE>

  . for any matter that could reasonably be expected to facilitate the
    merger; and

  . against approval of any proposal made in opposition to or competition
    with consummation of the merger.

At ACT's request, the CMC directors and executive officers will execute and
deliver to ACT an irrevocable proxy to vote the shares of CMC common stock
owned by them, respectively, in accordance with the terms of the voting
agreements. The voting agreements will terminate on the earlier of the
effective time of the merger or the termination of the merger agreement in
accordance with its terms.

 Voting Agreements of ACT Stockholders

   John A. Pino, the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive
Officer of ACT, and certain trusts for his benefit, who collectively
beneficially hold approximately 55% of the outstanding ACT common stock as of
the record date, entered into voting agreements with CMC. The form of voting
agreement is attached as Annex D to this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
Under the voting agreements, Mr. Pino and such trusts agreed to vote all of his
or its shares of ACT common stock:

  . for the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the merger;

  . for any matter that could reasonably be expected to facilitate the
    merger; and

  . against approval of any proposal made in opposition to or competition
    with consummation of the merger.

At CMC's request, Mr. Pino and such trusts will execute and deliver to CMC an
irrevocable proxy to vote the shares of ACT common stock owned by them in
accordance with the terms of the voting agreements. The voting agreements will
terminate on the earlier of the effective time of the merger or the termination
of the merger agreement in accordance with its terms.

                                       66
<PAGE>

                    UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING
                              FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   The following unaudited pro forma condensed combining financial statements
of ACT are based on the historical consolidated financial statements of ACT and
CMC and give pro forma effect to the merger by application of the pro forma
adjustments described in the accompanying notes. In presenting these unaudited
pro forma condensed combining financial statements, we treated our companies as
if they had always been combined for accounting and financial reporting
purposes. This method is known as the "pooling of interests" method of
accounting. The unaudited pro forma condensed combining statements of
operations for the three months ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 and for the
fiscal years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 give effect to the merger
as if it occurred at the beginning of the earliest period presented. Per the
terms of the merger, each holder of CMC common stock will be entitled to
receive shares of ACT common stock based on an exchange ratio of 0.50 of a
share of ACT common stock for each share of CMC common stock. ACT prepares its
financial statements on the basis of a fiscal year ending on December 31. CMC
prepares its financial statements on the basis of a fiscal year ending July 31.
The Pro Forma Condensed Combining Balance Sheet combines ACT's unaudited
balance sheet as of March 31, 1999 with CMC's unaudited balance sheet as of
April 30, 1999. The Pro Forma Condensed Combining Statements of Operations
combine ACT's audited results of operations for the fiscal years ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 with CMC's audited results of operations for the fiscal
years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Pro Forma Condensed
Combining Statements of Operations also combine ACT's unaudited results of
operations for the three months ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 with CMC's
unaudited results of operations for the three months ended April 30, 1999 and
1998, respectively. CMC's net sales and net loss for the six months ended
January 31, 1999, excluded from the pro forma financial data, were $148,314,000
and ($1,937,000), respectively. The unaudited pro forma adjustments described
in the accompanying notes are based on preliminary estimates and certain
assumptions that we believe are reasonable.

   The unaudited pro forma condensed combining financial statements and related
notes are provided for informational purposes only and are not necessarily
indicative of the consolidated financial position or results of operations of
ACT as they may be in the future or as they might have been had the merger been
effected on the assumed dates. You should read the unaudited pro forma
condensed combining financial statements in conjunction with, and such
statements are qualified in their entirety by, the historical financial
statements of ACT and CMC, and the related notes thereto, which are included
elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.

                                       67
<PAGE>

             UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING BALANCE SHEETS

                              As of March 31, 1999
                                 (In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               ACT           CMC
                          Manufacturing, Industries,                               Pro Forma
         ASSETS                Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments         Combined
         ------           -------------- ----------- --------  -----------         ---------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>                 <C>
Current assets
  Cash and cash
   equivalents..........     $  1,741      $ 5,260   $  7,001    $                 $  7,001
  Accounts receivable
   trade, net...........       91,832       21,290    113,122                       113,122
  Accounts and notes
   receivable from
   affiliates...........          --         4,712      4,712                         4,712
  Inventory.............       41,573       30,838     72,411                        72,411
  Prepaid expenses and
   other assets.........        1,201        1,499      2,700                         2,700
  Deferred tax asset....        1,360          --       1,360        408 (3)          1,768
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total current
     assets.............      137,707       63,599    201,306        408            201,714
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
Property and equipment--
 net....................       16,289       19,276     35,565                        35,565
Investment in preferred
 stock of affiliate.....          --         5,884      5,884                         5,884
Note receivable from
 affiliate..............          --           950        950                           950
Goodwill and other
 assets--net............        6,670        4,296     10,966     (1,020)(3)          9,946
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total...............     $160,666      $94,005   $254,671    $  (612)          $254,059
                             ========      =======   ========    =======           ========
<CAPTION>
    LIABILITIES AND
  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
  --------------------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>                 <C>
Current liabilities
  Note payable under
   line of credit.......     $    --       $ 9,919   $  9,919    $                 $  9,919
  Current portion of
   long-term debt.......          --         1,647      1,647                         1,647
  Accounts payable......       60,528       31,227     91,755                        91,755
  Accrued expenses......        3,421        5,189      8,610      5,500 (1)         14,110
  Income tax payable....          824          --         824                           824
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total current
     liabilities........       64,773       47,982    112,755      5,500            118,255
Long-term debt..........          --         4,547      4,547                         4,547
Other long-term
 liabilities............        2,102        1,364      3,466                         3,466
Note payable bank.......       41,255          --      41,255                        41,255
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total liabilities         108,130       53,893    162,023      5,500            167,523
Commitments and
 contingencies
Stockholders' equity
  Preferred stock.......          --           --         --                            --
  Common stock..........           91           78        169        (40)(2)            129
  Additional paid-in
   capital..............       39,598       36,831     76,429       (401)(2)         76,028
  Treasury stock........          --          (441)      (441)       441 (2)            --
  Accumulated other
   comprehensive income
   (loss)...............         (137)         --        (137)                         (137)
  Retained earnings.....       12,984        3,644     16,628     (6,112)(1)(2)(3)   10,516
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total stockholders'
     equity.............       52,536       40,112     92,648     (6,112)            86,536
                             --------      -------   --------    -------           --------
    Total...............     $160,666      $94,005   $254,671    $  (612)          $254,059
                             ========      =======   ========    =======           ========
</TABLE>

                                       68
<PAGE>

        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                   For the three months ended March 31, 1999
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               ACT           CMC
                          Manufacturing, Industries,                        Pro Forma
                               Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments  Combined
                          -------------- ----------- --------  -----------  ---------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>
Net sales...............     $81,190       $58,677   $139,867     $         $139,867
Cost of goods sold......      73,681        56,405    130,086                130,086
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
Gross profit............       7,509         2,272      9,781                  9,781
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............       3,681         2,907      6,588      (60)(3)     6,528
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
Operating income (loss).       3,828          (635)     3,193       60         3,253
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest expense......         704           280        984                    984
  Other, net............          13           --          13                     13
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
    Total...............         717           280        997                    997
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
Income (loss) before
 provision for income
 taxes..................       3,111          (915)     2,196       60         2,256
Benefit (provision) for
 income taxes...........      (1,245)          343       (902)     (24)(3)      (926)
                             -------       -------   --------     ----      --------
Net income (loss).......     $ 1,866       $  (572)  $  1,294     $ 36      $  1,330
                             =======       =======   ========     ====      ========
Basic net income (loss)
 per common share.......     $  0.21       $ (0.07)                         $   0.10 (4)
Diluted net income
 (loss) per common
 share..................     $  0.20       $ (0.07)                         $   0.10 (4)
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....       9,068         7,657                            12,897
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...       9,511         7,657                            13,340
</TABLE>

                                       69
<PAGE>

        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                   For the three months ended March 31, 1998
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               ACT           CMC
                          Manufacturing, Industries,                        Pro Forma
                               Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments  Combined
                          -------------- ----------- --------  -----------  ---------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>
Net sales...............     $60,943       $58,565   $119,508     $         $119,508
Cost of goods sold......      58,971        54,596    113,567                113,567
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
Gross profit............       1,972         3,969      5,941                  5,941
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............       3,017         2,731      5,748       261 (3)    6,009
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
Operating income (loss).      (1,045)        1,238        193      (261)         (68)
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest expense......         740           311      1,051                  1,051
  Other, net............          92           --          92                     92
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
    Total...............         832           311      1,143                  1,143
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
Income (loss) before
 provision for income
 taxes..................      (1,877)          927       (950)     (261)      (1,211)
Benefit (provision) for
 income taxes...........         751          (347)       404       104 (3)      508
                             -------       -------   --------     -----     --------
Net income (loss).......     $(1,126)      $   580   $   (546)    $(157)    $   (703)
                             =======       =======   ========     =====     ========
Basic net income (loss)
 per common share.......     $ (0.12)      $  0.08                          $  (0.05)(4)
Diluted net income
 (loss) per common
 share..................     $ (0.12)      $  0.08                          $  (0.05)(4)
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....       9,063         7,440                            12,783
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...       9,063         7,724                            12,783
</TABLE>

                                       70
<PAGE>

        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                      For the year ended December 31, 1998
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              ACT           CMC
                         Manufacturing, Industries,                         Pro Forma
                              Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments   Combined
                         -------------- ----------- --------  -----------   ---------
<S>                      <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>           <C>
Net sales...............    $290,529     $301,955   $592,484    $           $592,484
Cost of goods sold......     271,311      283,828    555,139                 555,139
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
Gross profit............      19,218       18,127     37,345                  37,345
Selling, general and
 administrative ex-
 penses.................      14,687       12,697     27,384     1,200 (3)    28,584
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
Operating income........       4,531        5,430      9,961    (1,200)        8,761
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest expense......       2,334        1,384      3,718                   3,718
  Other, net............         (93)         --         (93)                    (93)
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
    Total...............       2,241        1,384      3,625                   3,625
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
Income before provision
 for
 income taxes...........       2,290        4,046      6,336    (1,200)        5,136
Provision for income
 taxes..................      (1,009)      (1,515)    (2,524)      480 (3)    (2,044)
                            --------     --------   --------    ------      --------
Net income .............    $  1,281     $  2,531   $  3,812      (720)     $  3,092
                            ========     ========   ========    ======      ========
Basic net income per
 common share...........    $   0.14     $   0.35                           $   0.24 (4)
Diluted net income per
 common share...........    $   0.14     $   0.34                           $   0.24 (4)
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....       9,063        7,205                             12,665
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...       9,199        7,553                             12,976
</TABLE>

                                       71
<PAGE>

        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                      For the year ended December 31, 1997
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               ACT           CMC
                          Manufacturing, Industries,                       Pro Forma
                               Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments Combined
                          -------------- ----------- --------  ----------- ---------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>         <C>
Net sales...............     $264,654     $214,485   $479,139              $479,139
Cost of goods sold......      253,122      201,081    454,203               454,203
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Gross profit............       11,532       13,404     24,936                24,936
Selling, general and ad-
 ministrative expenses..       15,062        9,454     24,516                24,516
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Operating income (loss).       (3,530)       3,950        420                   420
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest expense......        2,659        1,350      4,009                 4,009
  Other, net............           47          --          47                    47
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
    Total...............        2,706        1,350      4,056                 4,056
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Income (loss) before
 provision for income
 taxes..................       (6,236)       2,600     (3,636)               (3,635)
Benefit (provision) for
 income
 taxes..................        2,229         (994)     1,235                 1,235
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Net income (loss).......     $ (4,007)    $  1,606   $ (2,401)             $ (2,401)
                             ========     ========   ========      ===     ========
Basic net income (loss)
 per
 common share...........     $  (0.45)    $   0.24                         $  (0.19)(4)
Diluted net income
 (loss) per
 common share...........     $  (0.45)    $   0.22                         $  (0.19)(4)
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....        8,952        6,757                           12,330
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...        8,952        7,167                           12,330
</TABLE>


                                       72
<PAGE>

        UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                      For the year ended December 31, 1996
                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               ACT           CMC
                          Manufacturing, Industries,                       Pro Forma
                               Inc.         Inc.     Combined  Adjustments Combined
                          -------------- ----------- --------  ----------- ---------
<S>                       <C>            <C>         <C>       <C>         <C>
Net sales...............     $225,900     $164,711   $390,611              $390,611
Cost of goods sold......      197,529      153,956    351,485               351,485
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Gross profit............       28,371       10,755     39,126                39,126
Selling, general and ad-
 ministrative expenses..       10,017        8,251     18,268                18,268
Restructuring charge....          --           792        792                   792
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Operating income........       18,354        1,712     20,066                20,066
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Other (income) expense:
  Interest expense......        1,556        1,512      3,068                 3,068
  Other, net............         (132)         --        (132)                 (132)
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
    Total...............        1,424        1,512      2,936                 2,936
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Income before provision
 for
 income taxes...........       16,930          200     17,130                17,130
Benefit (provision) for
 income
 taxes..................       (6,773)         (95)    (6,868)               (6,868)
                             --------     --------   --------      ---     --------
Net income..............     $ 10,157     $    105   $ 10,262              $ 10,262
                             ========     ========   ========      ===     ========
Basic net income per
 common share...........     $   1.16     $   0.02                         $   0.86 (4)
Diluted net income per
 common share...........     $   1.13     $   0.02                         $   0.84 (4)
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--basic.....        8,762        6,235                           11,880
Weighted average shares
 outstanding--diluted...        9,012        6,449                           12,237
</TABLE>

                                       73
<PAGE>

     NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(1) The Pro Forma Condensed Combining Statements of Operations exclude the
    nonrecurring costs of the merger of ACT and CMC, which are estimated at
    $5.5 million. This estimate includes investment banking, legal, accounting
    and printing fees relating to the merger. The Pro Forma Condensed Combining
    Balance Sheet has been adjusted to reflect these estimated obligations. The
    nonrecurring cost estimate is an estimate only, although it is not likely
    that material additional transaction costs will be incurred. The
    nonrecurring expenses will be charged to operations upon consummation of
    the merger. Retained earnings as of March 31, 1999 has been adjusted to
    reflect the impact of the estimated costs of the merger. Accrued expenses
    have been adjusted to reflect the accrual of such estimated costs.

(2) Stockholders' equity as of March 31, 1999 has been adjusted to reflect the
    issuance of 3.9 million shares of ACT common stock in exchange for all of
    the issued and outstanding shares of CMC common stock, resulting in 12.9
    million shares issued and outstanding on a pro forma basis. CMC's treasury
    stock will be canceled at the date of the merger. Options granted under
    CMC's stock option plan, both vested and unvested, will be exchanged for
    stock options under the ACT stock option plan based on the exchange ratio.
    The Pro Forma Condensed Combining Financial Statements do not reflect the
    exercise of the outstanding stock options.

(3) Other assets and selling, general and administrative expenses have been
    adjusted to reflect the conforming of CMC's accounting policy with that of
    ACT's by expensing previously capitalized preoperating and start up costs
    associated with CMC's Mexican manufacturing facility. This amount has also
    been tax-effected.

(4) Unaudited pro forma combined income (loss) per share is based upon the
    combined historical weighted average number of common shares outstanding,
    after adjustments of CMC's historical number of shares, assuming an
    exchange ratio of 0.50.

                                       74
<PAGE>

                  ADDITIONAL MATTERS BEING SUBMITTED TO A VOTE
                              OF ACT STOCKHOLDERS

ACT Proposal to Increase the Authorized Number of Shares of ACT Common Stock

   ACT's Restated Articles of Organization presently provide that the number of
authorized shares of common stock, par value $.01 per share, is 30,000,000
shares. In light of ACT's obligations to issue shares of ACT common stock to
CMC stockholders and to reserve shares of ACT common stock for issuance to CMC
option holders under the merger agreement, and to provide a sufficient number
of authorized shares for ACT's corporate purposes in the future, the ACT board
of directors thinks it is in the best interests of ACT to increase the number
of authorized shares of common stock to 50,000,000. On May 9, 1999, the ACT
board resolved to recommend to the ACT stockholders that the ACT Restated
Articles be amended to increase the number of authorized shares of ACT common
stock from 30,000,000 to 50,000,000 shares, subject to and upon completion of
the merger. The full text of the proposed amendment to the Restated Articles is
included as Annex F attached to this joint proxy statement/prospectus.

   As of the record date, there were approximately 9,091,600 shares of ACT
common stock issued and outstanding. In addition, approximately 1.8 million
shares have been reserved for issuance under ACT's 1993 Incentive Stock Option
Plan, the 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan and the 1995 Stock Plan.
If the proposal to approve the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan is approved
pursuant to which the aggregate number of shares issuable under the 1995 Stock
Plan is increased, approximately 2.8 million shares will be reserved for
issuance under the ACT stock option plans. At the effective time of the merger,
we will issue approximately 3.9 million shares of ACT common stock to holders
of CMC common stock. We have also agreed to assume all outstanding options to
purchase CMC common stock, which will require ACT to reserve approximately
780,000 shares. An increase in the authorized but unissued shares of ACT common
stock to 50,000,000 shares will provide a sufficient number of authorized but
unissued shares of common stock both to satisfy our obligations under the
merger agreement, and our corporate need for additional shares to be available
for other corporate purposes. These other purposes may include, without
limitation:

  . additional acquisitions;

  . raising capital through the sale of our common stock;

  . attracting and retaining valuable employees by the issuance of additional
    stock or stock options;

  . possible future stock splits or stock dividends; and

  . other transactions involving the use of ACT common stock.

   We have no present commitments, agreements or undertakings to issue any
additional shares for any such other purpose except in connection with the
merger. The ACT board does not presently intend to secure any further approval
from the ACT stockholders prior to authorizing or issuing such ACT common
stock, except where such approval is required by law or applicable stock
exchange rules.

   Although we have no such intentions, the additional authorized but unissued
shares of ACT common stock could also be used to make more difficult a change
in control of ACT. Under certain circumstances, we could use such shares to
create voting impediments, or to discourage third parties seeking to effect a
takeover or otherwise gain control of ACT. We could also place such shares with
purchasers who might support the ACT board in opposing a hostile takeover bid.

   The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of ACT
common stock issued and outstanding on the record date and entitled to vote
thereon will be required to approve the amendment to the Restated Articles.

                                       75
<PAGE>

   ACT's board of directors unanimously recommends a vote "FOR" approval of the
amendment to the Restated Articles of Organization to increase the authorized
shares of ACT common stock from 30,000,000 shares to 50,000,000 shares, subject
to and upon completion of the merger.

ACT Proposal to Approve and Adopt an Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan

   The 1995 Stock Plan was adopted by ACT's board of directors on February 8,
1995 and approved by the stockholders on February 8, 1995. The 1995 Stock Plan
was amended by ACT stockholders on May 20, 1997 to provide for the issuance of
a maximum of 1,250,000 shares of common stock of ACT. On May 9, 1999, ACT's
board of directors approved an Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan pursuant to
which the number of shares reserved for issuance thereunder would be increased
by an additional 1,000,000 shares to 2,250,000 shares. Stockholder approval of
the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan is required by the terms of the 1995
Stock Plan.

   As of June 21, 1999, options to purchase an aggregate of approximately 1.3
million shares of ACT common stock were outstanding under ACT's 1993 Incentive
Stock Option Plan, the 1995 Non-Employer Director Stock Option Plan and the
1995 Stock Plan, and approximately 500,000 shares were available for future
grant under such plans. The ACT board of directors has determined not to grant
additional options under the 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan. Approximately
236,000 shares remain available for grant under the 1995 Stock Plan. If the
proposal to approve the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan is approved,
approximately 1.2 million shares will be available for future grant under the
1995 Stock Plan.

   The ACT board of directors believes that in order to attract and retain
qualified employees, it is necessary to continue to grant options to such
employees. The board of directors believes that the remaining shares in the
1995 Stock Plan are insufficient for this purpose, especially due to the
addition of the CMC employees who will be eligible to participate in the 1995
Stock Plan after the effective time of the merger.

   The essential features of the 1995 Stock Plan are outlined below.

   ACT intends the 1995 Stock Plan to provide incentives to the directors,
officers and other employees of ACT and to other individuals who render service
to ACT by providing them with opportunities to participate in the ownership of
ACT through the following:

  . the grant of options which qualify as incentive stock options under
    Section 422(b) of the Code;

  . the grant of options which do not qualify as incentive stock options;

  . awards of ACT stock; and

  . opportunities to make direct purchases of ACT stock.

   Both incentive stock options and non-qualified options are referred to
hereafter individually as an "Option" and collectively as "Options." Options,
awards of stock and authorizations to make purchases of stock are referred to
hereafter collectively as "Stock Rights."

   The Stock Option Committee of the board of directors administers the 1995
Stock Plan. Subject to the provisions of the 1995 Stock Plan, the Stock Option
Committee has the authority to select the optionees and determine the terms of
the Options granted, including:

  . the number of shares subject to each Option;

  . when the Option becomes exercisable;

  . the exercise price of the Option;

  . the duration of the Option; and

  . the time, manner and form of payment upon exercise of an Option.

   Stock Rights may be granted under the 1995 Stock Plan at any time prior to
February 8, 2005. The exercise price per share of incentive stock options
granted under the 1995 Stock Plan cannot be less than the fair market value of
the common stock on the date of grant (or, in the case of incentive stock
options granted to

                                       76
<PAGE>

employees holding more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all
classes of stock of ACT, 110% of the fair market value of the common stock on
the date of grant). The 1995 Stock Plan provides that, subject to earlier
termination, each Option shall expire on the date specified in the option
agreement, but not more than ten years from its date of grant (or five years in
the case of incentive stock options granted to an employee holding more than
10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of ACT).

   The 1995 Stock Plan currently authorizes the issuance of up to 1,250,000
shares of ACT common stock, but no employee of ACT may be granted Options to
acquire, in the aggregate, more than 1,249,000 shares of stock. Any shares
subject to an Option which expires or terminates may again be available for
grant under the 1995 Plan; however, such shares are included in the
determination of the aggregate number of shares of common stock deemed to have
been granted to such employee under the 1995 Stock Plan.

   Each Option granted under the 1995 Stock Plan may be either fully
exercisable at the time of the grant or may become exercisable in such
installments as the Stock Option Committee may specify. Each Option may be
exercised from time to time, in whole or in part, up to the total number of
shares with respect to which it is then exercisable. The Stock Option Committee
has the right to accelerate the date of exercise of any installment of any
Option, provided such acceleration would not violate the $100,000 per year
limitation on the fair market value of stock (determined as of the grant date)
subject to incentive stock options granted to any employee which become
exercisable for the first time in any calendar year.

   Stock Rights are not assignable or transferable by the grantee except by
will, by the laws of descent or distribution or, in the case of a non-qualified
option, pursuant to a valid domestic relations order. Generally, no incentive
stock option may be exercised more than ninety (90) days following termination
of employment, but not later than the stated expiration date. However, in the
event that termination is due to death or disability, the incentive stock
option is exercisable to the extent then vested, for a maximum of 180 days
after such termination, but not later than the stated expiration date.

   An Option shall be exercised by giving written notice delivered to the
principal office of ACT together with full payment of the exercise price.
Payment may be made by cash or check, or at the discretion of the Stock Option
Committee:

  . by personal recourse note with interest;

  . by tendering ACT common stock; or

  . through the delivery of an assignment of sufficient amount of the
    proceeds from the sale of the common stock acquired upon exercise.

   If the Stock Option Committee exercises such discretion with respect to an
incentive stock option, it must do so in writing at the time of the grant of
the incentive stock option.

   The ACT board may terminate the 1995 Stock Plan at any time but such
termination will not affect any Stock Rights then outstanding under the 1995
Stock Plan. Unless terminated by action of the ACT board, the 1995 Stock Plan
will continue in effect until February 7, 2005, but Stock Rights granted prior
to that time will continue in effect until they expire in accordance with their
terms. The ACT board may also amend the 1995 Stock Plan as it deems advisable
in certain ways. Amendments which, among other things, materially modify the
requirements for participation in the 1995 Stock Plan or increase the number of
shares of common stock subject to issuance under the 1995 Stock Plan, must be
submitted to stockholders for approval.

 Certain Federal Income Tax Considerations with Respect to the 1995 Stock Plan

   With respect to incentive stock options, if the holder of an option does not
dispose of the shares acquired upon exercise of the option within one year from
the transfer of such shares to such employee, or within two years from the date
the option to acquire such shares is granted, for federal income tax purposes:

  . the optionee will not recognize any income at the time of the exercise of
    the option;

                                       77
<PAGE>

  . the excess of the fair market value of the shares as of the date of
    exercise over the option price will constitute an item of income for
    purposes of the alternative minimum tax; and

  . the difference between the option price and the amount realized upon the
    sale of the shares by the optionee will be treated as a long-term capital
    gain or loss.

   ACT will not be allowed a deduction for federal income tax purposes in
connection with the granting of an incentive stock option or the issuance of
shares thereunder.

   With respect to the grant of options which are not incentive stock options,
the person receiving an option will recognize no income on receipt thereof.
Upon the exercise of the option, the optionee will recognize ordinary income in
the amount of the difference between the option price and the fair market value
of the shares on the date the option is exercised. ACT will receive an
equivalent deduction at that time.

   Persons receiving common stock under the 1995 Stock Plan pursuant to an
award of common stock or a grant of an opportunity to purchase common stock
generally recognize ordinary compensation income equal to the fair market value
of the shares received, reduced by any purchase price paid. ACT generally
should be entitled to a corresponding tax deduction. When such stock is sold,
the seller generally will recognize capital gain or loss. Special rules apply
if the stock acquired is subject to vesting.

   Approval and adoption of the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan requires
the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of ACT common
stock voting on the proposal at the ACT special meeting. The full text of the
proposed Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan is included as Annex G to this
joint proxy statement/prospectus.

   ACT's board of directors unanimously recommends a vote "FOR" approval and
adoption of the Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan pursuant to which the
number of shares reserved for issuance thereunder will be increased from
1,250,000 to 2,250,000 shares.

                                       78
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                                  ACT BUSINESS

   ACT Manufacturing, Inc. provides value-added electronics manufacturing
services to original equipment manufacturers in the networking and
telecommunications, computer, industrial and medical equipment markets. ACT
provides original equipment manufacturers with:

  . complex printed circuit board assembly primarily utilizing advanced
    surface mount technology;

  . mechanical and molded cable and harness assembly;

  . electro-mechanical sub-assembly; and

  . total system assembly and integration.

ACT targets emerging and established original equipment manufacturers who
require moderate-volume production runs of complex, leading-edge commercial
market applications. These applications are generally characterized by multiple
configurations and high printed circuit board densities. Such applications
therefore generally require technologically-advanced and flexible manufacturing
as well as a higher degree of value-added services. As an integral part of its
offerings to customers, ACT provides the following services:

  . advanced manufacturing and test engineering;

  . flexible materials management;

  . comprehensive test services;

  . product repair;

  . packaging;

  . order fulfillment; and

  . distribution services.

Services Provided by ACT

   ACT utilizes a business unit or "cell" approach to provide value-added
services to its customers. Thus, ACT dedicates specific equipment, personnel
and systems to customers. Throughout the manufacturing organization, ACT uses
state-of-the-art production performance, statistical process control and
quality reporting systems to provide accurate and timely management and
customer information.

   Manufacturing of Electronic Assemblies. ACT offers manufacturing
capabilities for printed circuit board assembly, cable and harness assembly,
electro-mechanical sub-assembly and total system assembly and integration.

   Printed Circuit Board Assembly. ACT employs a full range of advanced surface
mount technologies in its printed circuit board assembly operations, including
ball grid array. ACT also continues to support pin-through-hole technology and
related semi-automated and manual placement processes for existing and new
applications that require these technologies. ACT supports its manufacturing
process with the following:

  . state-of-the-art, high-speed placement systems;

  . screen printers;

  . epoxy dispensers;

  . wave solderers;

  . reflow and cleaning systems;

  . a highly-trained and experienced engineering and manufacturing workforce;

  . computer-aided manufacturing and test equipment;

                                       79
<PAGE>

  . process technology; and

  . information processing technology.

ACT utilizes water-soluble and no-clean process technology that ACT believes
meets or exceeds all applicable environmental regulations.

   As part of the manufacturing process, ACT provides in-circuit, functional
and stress environmental testing services for substantially all completed
printed circuit board assemblies. In-circuit tests verify that:

  . the components have been inserted properly;

  . the components meet certain functional standards; and

  . the electrical circuits have been completed properly.

ACT performs these tests on industry standard testing equipment using
proprietary software developed either by the customer or ACT's test engineers.
ACT also uses specialized testing equipment designed and provided by the
customer to perform customized functional tests designed to ensure that the
printed circuit board assembly will perform its intended functions. In
addition, since defective components normally fail after a relatively short
period of use, ACT, in accordance with normal process parameters, subjects
certain printed circuit board assemblies to controlled environmental stresses,
typically thermal or electrical stresses.

   Cable and Harness Assembly. ACT offers a wide range of cable and harness
assembly services for molded and mechanical applications including:

  . custom manufactured ribbon assemblies;

  . multiconductor, co-axial and fiber optic cable assemblies; and

  . discrete wire harness assemblies.

ACT uses advanced and diverse manufacturing processes, in-line inspection and
test and dedicated work cells to minimize work in process time and focus on
process efficiencies and quality. ACT uses both automated and semi-automated
preparation and insertion equipment, as well as manual assembly techniques to
accomplish the cable and harness assembly process. ACT tests substantially all
of its cable and harness assemblies using automated test equipment.

   Electro-Mechanical Sub-Assembly and Total System Assembly and Integration.
ACT integrates components, including its printed circuit board and cable and
harness assemblies, into higher level sub-assemblies and total system
assemblies. In addition to product assemblies, ACT also provides the following
services to customers seeking to integrate manufacturing and distribution
activities:

  . custom configuration;

  . documentation;

  . packaging; and

  . order fulfillment.

   ACT provides the following value-added services across the full range of its
electronics manufacturing services:

   Advanced Manufacturing and Test Engineering. ACT's advanced manufacturing
engineers work closely with a customer's product designers at the early design
stage of a product. This optimizes product manufacturability, testability, and
reliability. ACT's advanced manufacturing engineers also participate in the
customer's parts selection and materials utilization decisions at the design
stage. This participation mitigates component availability issues which might
arise during the manufacturing cycle. ACT's engineers also evaluate the ongoing
manufacturing process and recommend improvements to reduce manufacturing costs
or lead times, or to increase the quality of finished assemblies. ACT's
engineering services help customers:

  . bring their products rapidly to the market;

                                       80
<PAGE>

  . meet the market's expectation for quality; and

  . take advantage of advances in manufacturing and testing technology and
    processes.

   Materials Management. ACT directly purchases all or a substantial portion of
the components necessary for its product assemblies. ACT procures components
from vendors which meet ACT's standards for timely delivery, high quality, cost
effectiveness and compliance with customer specifications. To help control
inventory investment, ACT generally orders components only when it has a
customer forecast, purchase order or commitment to purchase the completed
assemblies. ACT uses a materials requirements planning system to plan and
procure materials. ACT uses electronic data interchange systems to efficiently
communicate with many of its vendors. ACT uses such electronic data interchange
systems to purchase a majority of its active component requirements.
Additionally, ACT uses just-in-time inventory management techniques and manages
its material pipelines and vendor base in order to enable ACT's customers to
increase or decrease volume requirements within established frameworks.

   Product Diagnostics and Repair. ACT offers product diagnostic and repair
services for assemblies manufactured by ACT and, in some instances, other
products of its customers. ACT uses its engineering and test capabilities to
provide product diagnostic, repair and product upgrade services. ACT also
offers its customers revision control, lot tracking and materials management
services for their product revisions, upgrades and repairs.

   Order Fulfillment and Distribution. To more rapidly respond to the market
demands of its customers, ACT offers delivery programs and capabilities
designed with the flexibility to ship products directly to the original
equipment manufacturer's customers. Under these programs, ACT packages products
to the customer's specification with appropriate product documentation and
manages the logistics of delivery. ACT works closely with its customers to
identify and offer additional services in anticipation of future customer
needs.

Customers and Markets

   ACT serves a wide range of customers from emerging growth companies to
established, multinational corporations in a variety of markets including
networking and telecommunications, computer, industrial and medical equipment.

   In many cases, ACT's customers utilize more than one electronic
manufacturing services provider across their product lines. ACT's goal is to be
the primary electronics manufacturing services provider for its customers. ACT
seeks to manufacture the high-value, leading-edge products of its customers.
ACT believes that it is advantageously positioned to be selected to provide
manufacturing and value-added services for its customers' new product offerings
due to its:

  . close interaction with the design engineering personnel of its customers
    at the product development stage;

  . established materials pipeline; and

  . prototype production experience.

ACT assigns each customer a program manager who is the primary contact for the
customer at ACT. Program managers are responsible for the development of the
manufacturing relationship between ACT and such customer and the assignment of
ACT resources to meet the customer's requirements.

   ACT continues to focus on expanding and diversifying its customer base to
reduce dependence on any individual customer or market. Electronics
manufacturing services providers generally face a long sales cycle and must
perform satisfactorily on a trial basis prior to capturing significant orders
from an original equipment manufacturer.

                                       81
<PAGE>

   For the three months ended March 31, 1999, ACT's four largest customers
accounted for approximately 73% of ACT's net sales. Sales to ACT's customers
representing at least 10% of ACT's net sales for such period were as follows:

  . Nortel Networks (formerly Bay Networks and Aptis Communications)--29%;

  . Ascend Communications--23%; and

  . EMC Corporation--15%.

In fiscal 1998 and 1997, ACT's five largest customers accounted for
approximately 68% and 70%, respectively, of ACT's net sales. Nortel Networks,
Ascend and EMC respectively, accounted for 25%, 19% and 18% of ACT's net sales
for 1998. Nortel Networks, Ascend and EMC accounted for 31%, 13% and 13%,
respectively, of ACT's net sales for 1997.

   ACT generally warrants that its products will be free from defects in
workmanship for twelve months. ACT also passes on to the customer any
warranties provided by component manufacturers and material suppliers to the
extent permitted. During the warranty period, ACT's warranty provides that ACT
will take action to repair or replace failed products. ACT tests substantially
all of its assemblies prior to shipment. In addition, ACT's customers generally
test or have tested final products on a sample basis prior to deployment in the
field. ACT's warranty costs have not been material to date.

Sales and Marketing

   ACT focuses its sales efforts on developing close relationships with
customers primarily during product design and development. ACT markets its
services primarily through a direct sales force, and to a lesser extent,
through independent manufacturer's representatives in the United States, Canada
and Europe. In addition, ACT supports its existing customer relationships
through a comprehensive staff of program managers dedicated to individual
customer accounts.

   As ACT has grown, it has increasingly relied on and developed its direct
selling organization as opposed to utilizing independent manufacturer
representatives. ACT expects to continue to expand its direct sales
organization and marketing efforts in response to increased customer
opportunities in new geographic markets or otherwise.

Competition

   The electronics manufacturing services industry is highly competitive. ACT
competes against numerous U.S. and foreign electronics manufacturing services
providers with global operations. ACT also faces competition from a number of
electronics manufacturing services providers who operate on a local or regional
basis. In addition, current and prospective customers continually evaluate the
merits of manufacturing products internally. Consolidation in the electronics
manufacturing services industry results in a continually changing competitive
landscape. The consolidation trend in the industry also results in larger and
more geographically diverse competitors who have significant combined resources
with which to compete against ACT.

   Certain of ACT's competitors have substantially greater managerial,
manufacturing, financial, systems, sales and marketing resources than ACT.
These competitors:

  . may have the ability to respond more quickly to new or emerging
    technologies;

  . may have greater name recognition, industry reputation, critical mass and
    market presence;

  . may have a greater ability to take advantage of acquisition
    opportunities;

  . may adapt more quickly to changes in customer requirements; and

  . may devote greater resources to the development, promotion and sale of
    their services than ACT.

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<PAGE>

ACT may be operating at a cost disadvantage compared to manufacturers who have
greater direct buying power from component suppliers, distributors and raw
material suppliers or who have lower cost structures. ACT's manufacturing
processes are generally not subject to significant proprietary protection, and
companies with greater resources or a greater geographic presence may enter the
market. Increased competition from existing or potential competitors could
result in price reductions, reduced margins or loss of market share. Each such
result could have a material adverse effect on ACT's business, financial
condition and results of operations.

   ACT believes that the principal competitive factors in the segments of the
electronics manufacturing services industry in which it operates are:

  . geographic location and coverage;

  . flexibility in adapting to customer's needs;

  . manufacturing capability;

  . price;

  . service;

  . technology;

  . quality;

  . reliability; and

  . timeliness in delivering finished products.

Competition from existing or potential competitors may have a material adverse
effect on ACT's business, financial condition and results of operations.

Governmental Regulation

   ACT's operations are subject to certain federal, state and local regulatory
requirements relating to environmental compliance and site cleanups, waste
management and health and safety matters. ACT believes that it complies with
applicable regulations promulgated by:

  . the Occupational Safety and Health Administration pertaining to health
    and safety in the workplace;

  . the Environmental Protection Agency pertaining to the use, storage,
    discharge and disposal of hazardous chemicals used in its manufacturing
    processes; and

  . corresponding state agencies.

The current costs of compliance and environmental remediation are not material
to ACT. Nevertheless, additional or modified requirements may be imposed in the
future. If such additional or modified requirements are imposed on ACT, or if
conditions requiring remediation were found to exist, ACT may be required to
incur substantial additional expenditures.

Employees

   At December 31, 1998, ACT had 1,042 permanent employees, compared with 985
permanent employees at December 31, 1997. The employees of ACT are not
represented by a union and ACT has experienced no labor stoppages. ACT
considers its relations with its employees to be good.

                                       83
<PAGE>

Properties

   ACT's principal manufacturing facilities are located in six leased
facilities containing an aggregate of 358,000 square feet. ACT's significant
facilities are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Square
             Location                           Feet
             --------                          -------
             <S>                               <C>
             Hudson, MA....................... 147,000
             Hudson, MA.......................  32,000
             Hudson, MA.......................  28,000
             Mansfield, MA....................  44,000
             Lawrenceville, GA................  62,000
             Dublin, Ireland..................  45,000
                                               -------
                 Total........................ 358,000
                                               =======
</TABLE>

   ACT's Hudson, Massachusetts headquarters include a state-of-the-art
manufacturing facility which houses printed circuit board and systems assembly
operations, and two other facilities which contain manufacturing capabilities
for mechanical and molded cable and harness assembly and electro-mechanical
sub-assembly operations. ACT occupies the Hudson facilities under leases
scheduled to expire in 2007, 2003 and 2003, respectively. ACT leases two of
the Hudson facilities from Re-Act Realty Trust, a Massachusetts nominee trust,
which is controlled by John A. Pino, the President and Chief Executive Officer
of ACT, and the beneficial interest of which is principally owned by Mr. Pino.

   In February 1996, ACT entered into a five year lease for a facility in
Mansfield, Massachusetts to expand its manufacturing operations. The lease
expires in January 2001 and ACT has an option to renew the lease for an
additional five years. ACT believes that its Massachusetts facilities will be
sufficient for ACT's activities in the northeastern United States for the
foreseeable future.

   In the second quarter of 1998, ACT occupied and began manufacturing in a
new 45,000 square foot leased facility in Dublin, Ireland and consolidated
operations from the existing Dublin facility into the new plant. The lease
expires in the first quarter of 2005.

   In the fourth quarter of 1998, ACT began manufacturing in a new 62,000
square foot leased facility in Lawrenceville, Georgia and consolidated
operations from the existing Norcross, Georgia facility into this plant. This
lease expires in the fourth quarter of 2005.

   All of ACT's manufacturing facilities have been certified to the ISO 9002
international quality standard.

   At December 31, 1998, ACT's Massachusetts facilities contained nine surface
mount technology lines. ACT operates two surface mount technology lines at its
Lawrenceville, Georgia facility and has implemented one surface mount
technology line in the Dublin, Ireland facility.

Legal Proceedings

   On February 27, 1998, ACT and certain of ACT's officers and directors were
named as defendants in a purported securities class action lawsuit filed in
the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The
plaintiffs amended the complaint on October 16, 1998. The plaintiffs purport
to represent a class of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired ACT's
common stock in the period from April 17, 1997 through March 31, 1998. The
amended complaint alleges, among other things, that the defendants knowingly
made misstatements to the investing public about the value of ACT's inventory
and the nature of its accounting practices. On December 15, 1998, ACT filed a
motion to dismiss the case in its entirety based on the pleadings. The court
granted ACT's motion to dismiss without prejudice on May 27, 1999. The
plaintiffs

                                      84
<PAGE>

have until on or about July 1, 1999 to appeal the court's order of dismissal.
ACT believes the claims asserted in the amended complaint are without merit and
intends to continue to defend itself vigorously in this action if an appeal is
filed. ACT further believes that this litigation will not have a material
adverse effect on ACT's business and results of operations, although we can not
assure you as to the ultimate outcome of these matters.

   From time to time, ACT is also subject to claims or litigation incidental to
its business. ACT does not believe that any such incidental claims or
litigation will have a material adverse effect on the operations of ACT.

                                       85
<PAGE>

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

   The discussion in "ACT Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" contains trend analysis and other forward-
looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and
Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Actual results could differ materially from
those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of the factors
set forth elsewhere herein, including under "Risk Factors."

Overview

   ACT provides value-added electronics manufacturing services to original
equipment manufacturers in the networking and telecommunications, computer,
industrial and medical equipment markets. ACT provides original equipment
manufacturers with complex printed circuit board assembly primarily utilizing
advanced surface mount technology, mechanical and molded cable and harness
assembly, electro-mechanical sub-assembly, and total system assembly and
integration. ACT targets emerging and established original equipment
manufacturers who require moderate-volume production runs of complex, leading-
edge commercial market applications. These applications are generally
characterized by multiple configurations and high printed circuit board
densities. Such applications therefore generally require technologically
advanced and flexible manufacturing as well as a higher degree of value-added
services. As an integral part of its service to customers, ACT provides the
following services: advanced manufacturing and test engineering, flexible
materials management, comprehensive test services, product repair, packaging,
order fulfillment and distribution.

   ACT was founded in 1982 as a contract manufacturer of cable and harness
assemblies. In 1986, the founder of ACT organized a separate corporation to
serve as a contract manufacturer of printed circuit board assemblies. Each of
these companies was acquired by John A. Pino effective January 1, 1993 pursuant
to two option agreements. One option agreement was entered into in July 1989
and the other was entered into in June 1991. The predecessor printed circuit
board assembly company was merged with and into ACT in December 1994, at which
time ACT changed its name to ACT Manufacturing, Inc.

   From November 1, 1987 to March 28, 1995, ACT was treated as an S Corporation
for federal and certain state income tax purposes. As a result, during that
period ACT had not been subject to federal income taxes and had been subject to
certain state income taxes at a reduced rate. Accordingly, net income for
periods prior to 1996 is presented on a pro forma basis as if ACT had been a C
Corporation for such periods.

   ACT expanded the geographic scope of its operations through two strategic
acquisitions in June 1997. ACT acquired substantially all of the assets and
liabilities of Electronic Systems International, located in Norcross, Georgia.
ESI provides electronics manufacturing services to original equipment
manufacturers based primarily in the southeastern United States consisting of
printed circuit board assembly, electro-mechanical subassembly and total system
assembly. ACT also acquired Advanced Component Technologies Limited (f.k.a.
SignMax Limited), located in Dublin, Ireland. SignMax provides electronics
manufacturing services primarily consisting of cable and harness assembly.
Production at SignMax has been expanded to include a printed circuit board
operation utilizing surface mount technology. The operating results of the
acquired businesses are included from the date of purchase in ACT's
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 1997. The
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 1998
includes a full year of operations of the acquired businesses. See Note 2 of
Notes to ACT's Consolidated Financial Statements.

   ACT typically recognizes revenue upon shipment to customers. ACT generally
does not obtain long-term purchase orders or commitments from its customers.
ACT thus works with its customers to anticipate delivery dates and future
volume of orders based on customer forecasts. The level and timing of orders
placed by its customers vary due to: customer attempts to manage inventory,
changes in the customer's manufacturing

                                       86
<PAGE>

strategy, and variation in demand for customer products due to, among other
things, introduction of new products, product life cycles, competitive
conditions or industry or general economic conditions. ACT may purchase
components for product assemblies based on customer forecasts. However, ACT's
policy is that customers are responsible for materials and associated
acquisition costs in the event of a significant reduction, delay or
cancellation of orders from the forecasted amounts.

Results of Operations

   The following table sets forth certain consolidated statement of operations
data as a percentage of net sales for each period indicated. The table and the
discussion below should be read in conjunction with ACT's Consolidated
Financial Statements and the Notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this joint
proxy statement/prospectus.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Year Ended          Three Months
                                          December 31,        Ended March 31,
                                        --------------------  -----------------
                                        1996   1997    1998    1998      1999
                                        -----  -----   -----  -------   -------
      <S>                               <C>    <C>     <C>    <C>       <C>
      Net sales.......................  100.0% 100.0%  100.0%   100.0%    100.0%
      Cost of goods sold..............   87.4   95.6    93.3     96.8      90.8
                                        -----  -----   -----  -------   -------
      Gross profit....................   12.6    4.4     6.7      3.2       9.2
      Selling, general and administra-
       tive
       expenses.......................    4.5    5.7     5.1      5.0       4.5
                                        -----  -----   -----  -------   -------
      Operating income (loss).........    8.1   (1.3)    1.6     (1.8)      4.7
      Interest and other expense, net.   (0.6)  (1.0)   (0.9)    (1.4)     (0.9)
                                        -----  -----   -----  -------   -------
      Income (loss) before provision
       for income taxes...............    7.5   (2.4)    0.7     (3.2)      3.8
      Benefit (provision) for income
       taxes..........................   (3.0)   0.9    (0.3)     1.2      (1.5)
                                        -----  -----   -----  -------   -------
      Net income (loss)...............    4.5%  (1.5)%   0.4%    (2.0)%     2.3%
                                        =====  =====   =====  =======   =======
</TABLE>

   For the year ended December 31, 1997, ACT experienced significant changes
and events that adversely affected its 1997 results of operations. In the third
and fourth quarters of 1997, ACT experienced a decrease in net sales on both a
sequential and comparable period basis. The decline in net sales was
principally due to a softness in demand from several major customers resulting
in the conversion of fewer forecasted orders than anticipated as well as, in
the case of the third quarter, orders and commitments anticipated to ship prior
to the end of the quarter that were received too late for configuration and
completion in the quarter.

   ACT identified a significant inventory shortfall as a result of its 1997
year-end physical inventory. As a result of the shortfall, ACT recorded a
charge of approximately $13.1 million that was included in cost of goods sold
for 1997. The shortfall was investigated by ACT personnel and, under the
direction of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, by independent
external accounting specialists. The ultimate cause of the shortfall could not
be finally determined, and accordingly the associated charge was reported in
the fourth quarter of 1997. As a result of this shortfall, ACT has reviewed and
continues to review its security procedures and operating and financial
controls and, based upon such review, has implemented enhanced security systems
and inventory work-in-process tracking systems and expects to continue to
identify opportunities to implement enhanced procedures and controls. ACT
expects to continue to conduct quarterly inventories until it can assess the
effectiveness of these measures.

   In addition, in 1997 ACT included in its accounts receivable reserve
approximately $1.7 million in connection with amounts due from discontinued
customers and accrued an expense of $600,000 for professional fees related to
the investigation of the inventory shortfall.

                                       87
<PAGE>

   ACT provides electronics manufacturing services to customers in the
networking and telecommunications, computer, industrial and medical equipment
markets. The percentage of net sales by market for the years ended 1998, 1997
and 1996 is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
      Market                                       Percentage of Net Sales
      ------                                       ---------------------------
                                                    1998      1997      1996
                                                   -------   -------   -------
      <S>                                          <C>       <C>       <C>
      Networking/Telecommunications...............      58%       65%       73%
      Computer....................................      22        15        13
      Industrial..................................      17        17        12
      Medical.....................................       3         3         2
                                                   -------   -------   -------
                                                       100%      100%      100%
                                                   =======   =======   =======
</TABLE>

Three Months Ended March 31, 1999 and 1998

   Net sales increased $20.2 million or 33.2% to $81.2 million for the three
month period ended March 31, 1999 compared with $60.9 million for the same
period in 1998. The increase was attributed principally to an expansion of
business from existing customers, as well as sales to new customers in the
printed circuit board assembly markets. In addition, in the three months ended
March 31, 1998, sales were unfavorably impacted by softness in demand from
existing customers and weakness in the development of new business
opportunities. Net sales in the printed circuit board segment (including system
integration, test, repair and order fulfillment) as a percentage of net sales
was approximately 90% for the three month period ended March 31, 1999 compared
to approximately 86% for the same period in 1998. Net sales in the cable and
harness segment accounted for approximately 10% of net sales for the three
month period ended March 31, 1999 compared to approximately 14% of net sales
for the same period in 1998.

   Gross profit increased $5.5 million or 280.8% to $7.5 million for the three
months ended March 31, 1999 compared with $2.0 million for the same period in
1998. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales ("gross margin") increased to
9.2% for the three months ended March 31, 1999 from 3.2% for the same period in
1998. This increase was attributable to a higher absorption of manufacturing
overhead, the positive impact of ACT's cost management programs and a favorable
product mix.

   Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $0.7 million or 22%
to $3.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 1999 compared with $3.0
million, for the three months ended March 31, 1998. SG&A increased primarily
due to costs related to additional facilities and the additional investment in
the sales and marketing programs at ACT. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net
sales decreased to 4.5% for the three months ended March 31, 1999 from 5.0% for
the same period in 1998. SG&A as a percentage of net sales for the three months
ended March 31, 1999 was lower than the corresponding period in 1998 reflecting
growth in net sales in the three months ended March 31, 1999 and the positive
effects of ACT's cost management programs.

   Operating income increased $4.9 million to $3.8 million for the three months
ended March 31, 1999 compared with an operating loss of $1.0 million for the
same period in 1998 as a result of the above factors.

   Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 1999 remained
essentially unchanged when compared to the interest expense for the three
months ended March 31, 1998.

   ACT expects that the effective income tax rate for the year ended December
31, 1999 will approximate 40%.

1998 Compared to 1997

   ACT's net sales increased $25.8 million or 9.8% to $290.5 million in 1998
from $264.7 million in 1997. The increase was attributed principally to an
expansion of business from existing customers and sales to new customers in the
printed circuit board assembly markets. The increase was also due to the effect
of a full year of operations of the acquisitions made in 1997. As a percentage
of net sales, ACT's largest customers in 1998

                                       88
<PAGE>

included Ascend (19%), EMC (18%) and Bay Networks (16%) as compared to Bay
Networks (31%), EMC (13%) and Ascend (13%) in 1997. In each of the second,
third and fourth quarters of 1998 ACT experienced increased net sales compared
to the respective comparable quarters in 1997.

   Net sales in the printed circuit board assembly division (including system
integration and test operations), as a percentage of net sales was 87.6% in
1998 compared to 89.5% in 1997. Net sales in the cable and harness assembly
division accounted for 12.4% of 1998 net sales compared to 10.5% of 1997 net
sales.

   Gross profit increased $7.7 million or 66.6% to $19.2 million compared to
$11.5 million in 1997. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales, gross margin,
increased to 6.7% in 1998 from 4.4% in 1997. Within 1998, gross margin was
3.2%, 5.4%, 7.4% and 9.7% in the first, second, third and fourth quarters,
respectively. This sequential improvement is due primarily to higher absorption
of manufacturing overhead, the positive impact of ACT's cost management
programs and a favorable product mix. In addition, 1997 expenses were impacted
by a charge relating to the inventory shortfall of approximately $13.1 million
which was included in cost of goods sold.

   Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.4 million or 2.5%
to $14.7 million in 1998 from $15.1 million in 1997. SG&A expenses as a
percentage of net sales decreased to 5.1% in 1998 from 5.7% in 1997. The
decrease in SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales in 1998 compared to 1997
was primarily the result of a reduction in SG&A in 1998 due to cost management
programs at ACT while net sales increased in 1998.

   Operating income increased $8.1 million to $4.5 million in 1998, compared
with an operating loss of $3.5 million for 1997 as a result of the previously
discussed factors.

   Interest and other expense, net decreased $0.5 million to $2.2 million for
1998 from $2.7 million for 1997. The decrease in interest and other expenses
resulted principally from reduced average borrowings on ACT's Credit Facility.

   ACT recorded a provision for income taxes of $1.0 million in 1998 compared
to a benefit for income taxes of $2.2 million in 1997. The effective income tax
rate was 44.0% in 1998.

1997 Compared to 1996

   ACT's net sales increased $38.8 million or 17.2% to $264.7 million in 1997
from $225.9 million in 1996. This increase was attributed principally to an
expansion of business from existing customers and sales to new customers in the
printed circuit board assembly markets. The increase was also due to the effect
of acquisitions made by ACT during 1997. Without the acquisitions, the increase
in net sales would have been approximately 11%. As a percentage of net sales,
ACT's largest customers in 1997 included Bay Networks (31%), EMC (13%) and
Ascend (13%). As a percentage of net sales in 1996, Ascend was the largest
customer with 20% of net sales. During 1997, ACT experienced a reduction in,
and then a termination of, business with 3Com. Sales to 3Com were less than 10%
of net sales in 1997 compared to 17% of net sales in 1996.

   Net sales in the printed circuit board assembly division (including system
integration and test operations) increased as a percentage of net sales to
89.5% in 1997 compared to 87.2% in 1996. Net sales in the cable and harness
assembly division accounted for 10.5% of 1997 net sales compared to 12.8% of
1996 net sales.

   Gross profit decreased by $16.8 million or 59% to $11.5 million in 1997
compared to $28.4 million in 1996. Gross margin decreased to 4.4% in 1997 from
12.6% in 1996. This change is attributable primarily to the following: the
$13.1 million inventory shortfall, changes in product mix with shipments of
lower margin products higher than anticipated, lower than anticipated shipments
resulting in lower manufacturing absorption, and the incidence of higher than
normal manufacturing efficiency variances. These occurrences primarily affected
business operating results in the second half of 1997. Gross profit as a
percentage of net sales in the first and second quarters of 1997 was relatively
consistent with 1996 business operating results. Without the effect of the
inventory shortfall charge, gross margin would have decreased to 9.3% in 1997
due to the aforementioned reasons.

                                       89
<PAGE>

   SG&A expenses increased $5.1 million or 50.0% to $15.1 million in 1997 from
$10.0 million in 1996. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to
5.7% in 1997 from 4.5% in 1996. The increase in SG&A expenses as a percentage
of net sales for 1997 compared to 1996 reflects the charges associated with
accounts receivable provisions, provision for professional fees related to the
investigation of the inventory shortfall, acquisitions made in Ireland and
Norcross, Georgia, the continued investment in sales and marketing programs at
ACT, and the effects of lower third and fourth quarter 1997 net sales levels
affecting full year comparative results. Without the effect of these provisions
for accounts receivable and non-recurring professional services, SG&A as a
percentage of net sales would have been 4.8% in 1997 compared to 4.5% of net
sales in 1996.

   Operating income was a loss of $3.5 million for 1997 compared with operating
income of $18.4 million for 1996 as a result of the previously discussed
factors.

   Interest and other income, net increased to $2.7 million for 1997 compared
with $1.4 million for 1996. The increase in interest and other expense resulted
principally from additional borrowings on ACT's line of credit to support
working capital requirements.

   ACT recorded a benefit for income taxes of $2.2 million in 1997 compared to
a provision for income taxes of $6.8 million in 1996.

Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

   Three Months Ended March 31, 1999

   ACT had working capital of $72.9 million at March 31, 1999 compared with
$70.2 million at December 31, 1998. Operating activities used $4.2 million of
cash for the first three months of 1999 compared with cash provided by
operations of $10.3 million for the comparable period in 1998. Net cash used by
operating activities for the first three months of 1999 consisted principally
of the increase in accounts receivable, offset by the increase in accounts
payable, a decrease in inventory, as well as the positive impact of net income
for the period.

   Accounts receivable increased $21.3 million to $91.8 million as of March 31,
1999 from $70.5 million as of December 31, 1998. The increase reflects higher
net sales in the first quarter of 1999 as compared to the fourth quarter of
1998. In addition, ACT's customers required a higher proportion of shipments in
the last month of the first quarter of 1999 as compared to the last month of
the fourth quarter of 1998. As of March 31, 1999, ACT's accounts receivable
days sales outstanding for product shipments measured from the date of shipment
was approximately 35 days. Inventory decreased by $3.8 million to $41.6 million
as of March 31, 1998 from $45.3 million as of December 31, 1998. This decrease
reflects ACT's continued inventory management initiatives.

   In the fourth quarter of 1998, ACT executed a new $55.0 million Senior
Secured Credit Facility to replace ACT's $50.0 million loan and security
agreement then outstanding. This new Credit Facility provides for borrowings up
to an aggregate amount of $55.0 million, limited to a certain percentage of
qualified accounts receivable and qualified inventory, of which $41.3 million
was utilized and an additional $13.7 million was available for use as of March
31, 1999 based upon the applicable borrowing base. Interest is payable monthly
and the Credit Facility matures in 2001. Through November 30, 1999, ACT may
choose an interest rate of either 0% to .75% above the prime rate as announced
by the bank, or 1.75% to 2.75% above the prevailing Eurodollar rate depending
upon the average borrowing base availability of ACT. Commencing December 1,
1999, the Company may choose an interest rate of either 0% to .50% above the
prime rate as announced by the bank or 1.50% to 2.50% above the prevailing
Eurodollar rate depending upon the calculated leverage rates of ACT. The Credit
Facility requires ACT to maintain certain levels of minimum availability and
maximum leverage ratios. In addition to certain other prohibited actions, the
Credit Facility also limits capital expenditures by ACT and prohibits the
payment of cash dividends on ACT's capital stock. At March 31, 1999 the
interest rate on the Credit Facility was 8.00%.

                                       90
<PAGE>

   ACT leases certain equipment used in its manufacturing operations under
capital lease agreements that expire through 2003. During the first quarter of
1999, ACT refinanced approximately $2.6 million of its then existing operating
leases and classified these leases as capital leases in the accompanying
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 1999. The effect of this
refinancing on ACT's results of operations will not differ materially from the
previous lease financing arrangements.

  Year Ended December 31, 1998 and 1997

   ACT had working capital of $70.2 million at December 31, 1998 compared with
$35.0 million at December 31, 1997. The $35.2 million increase is primarily due
to the classification of the outstanding amount under the Credit Facility as a
long-term liability at December 31, 1998. Operating activities provided
$9.4 million of cash in 1998 compared with the use of $3.4 million of cash in
1997. Cash was generated by operations in 1998 primarily as a result of the
refund of income taxes, the increase in accounts payable balances, and the
positive impact of a profitable operation in 1998, offset by the impact of
higher trade receivables and inventories at December 31, 1998. Cash provided by
operations was used primarily for the acquisition of property and equipment in
1998 of $7.9 million compared with $2.4 million for 1997.

   Accounts receivable increased $28.2 million to $70.5 million as of December
31, 1998 from $42.4 million as of December 31, 1997. The increase reflects
higher net sales in the fourth quarter of 1998 as compared to the fourth
quarter of 1997, as well as a shift in the requirements of ACT's customers to
having a higher proportion of shipments occur nearer to the end of the quarter
in 1998 than in 1997. As of December 31, 1998, ACT's accounts receivable days
sales outstanding for product shipments measured from date of shipment was
approximately 31 days.

   Inventory increased $5.4 million to $45.3 million as of December 31, 1998
from $40.0 million as of December 31, 1997. The increase reflects higher net
sales activity levels anticipated in the first quarter of 1999 as compared to
net sales activity levels in the first quarter of 1998. Increases for
anticipated higher net sales activity levels were offset slightly by inventory
management initiatives such as the implementation of in-house stores programs
with key distributors, whereby certain distributors of ACT maintain inventory
stockrooms on ACT's premises which provide just-in-time purchases of certain
components upon issuance to ACT's manufacturing process. It is expected that
distributor in-house stores programs will reduce ACT owned raw materials
requirements during 1999.

   Capital expenditures amounted to $7.9 million in 1998. Of such capital
expenditures, $3.0 million related to leasehold improvements for facility
expansion at ACT's Hudson, Massachusetts printed circuit board facility, and
$2.3 million related to leasehold improvements in ACT's new facility in
Ireland. The remaining $2.6 million related primarily to the purchase of
various manufacturing equipment, furniture and computer equipment. Capital
expenditures are expected to be approximately $3.0 million in 1999.

   Under ACT's $55 million Credit Facility, $39.5 million was utilized at
December 31, 1998. An additional $7.8 million was available for use at December
31, 1998 based upon the applicable borrowing base. The Credit Facility requires
ACT to maintain certain levels of minimum availability and maximum leverage
ratios. In addition to certain other prohibited actions, the Credit Facility
also limits capital expenditures by ACT and prohibits the payment of cash
dividends on ACT's capital stock. ACT exceeded the limit of capital
expenditures for 1998 provided in the Credit Facility. A waiver with regard to
the excess has been received from the banks. At December 31, 1998 the interest
rate on the Credit Facility was 8.0%

   ACT entered into a $17 million interest rate swap agreement in the fourth
quarter of 1998 simultaneous with the execution of the Credit Facility. The
swap agreement provides for payments by ACT of a fixed rate of interest of
6.76% and matures on October 19, 2001. The fair value of the interest rate swap
at December 31, 1998 was approximately $(770,000) since the fixed rate of
interest of 6.76% was higher than the floating rate.

                                       91
<PAGE>

   ACT has equipment lease lines of approximately $11.3 million available for
purchases of manufacturing equipment, computer hardware and software and
furniture. In May 1998, ACT entered into a $5.0 million operating lease line
agreement for the purchase of certain equipment in the Dublin, Ireland
facility. At December 31, 1998 substantially all of this available lease line
had been utilized for outstanding commitments.

   ACT's need for, cost of and access to funds are dependent in the long-term
on future operating results as well as conditions external to ACT. ACT believes
that its current sources of and access to future capital are adequate to
support operations for the next twelve months. Because ACT's capital
requirements cannot be predicted with certainty, however, there is no assurance
that ACT will not require additional financing during this period. There is no
assurance that any additional financing will be available on terms satisfactory
to ACT.

Year 2000 Readiness Disclosure Statements

   ACT is subject to various Year 2000 risks, relating to its internal systems,
the systems of its key suppliers and the potential decrease in demand for its
customers' products. ACT and the companies with which it does business utilize
computer software programs, operating systems and embedded technology in the
conduct of their operations. Many computer software programs, operating systems
and technology in use today are unable to distinguish between the year 2000 and
the year 1900 because they use a two-digit shorthand to define the applicable
year. This is commonly known as the Year 2000 problem or issue. If ACT does not
properly identify and correct its Year 2000 issues prior to January 1, 2000,
the operations of ACT could be materially disrupted. Such disruptions could be
caused by, among other things, an inability to do the following using current
processes and systems:

  . receive technical specifications, purchase orders and payments from
    customers;

  . order, receive, record and pay for inventory;

  . manufacture and ship products;

  . send invoices

  . process internal and external transactions; and

  . engage in similar normal business activities.

In addition, ACT's operations could also be significantly disrupted if the
companies with which it does business are not Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Such a failure could adversely affect a company's ability to do business
with ACT. Any of these Year 2000 failures or disruptions could have a material
adverse effect on ACT's business, financial condition or results of operations.

   To address these issues ACT has undertaken an extensive project to assess
and remedy the areas within its business and operations which could be
adversely affected by Year 2000 issues, including its information technology
and non-information technology systems and processes. The first phase of the
project is:

  . to determine the extent of ACT's Year 2000 problem by reviewing all of
    ACT's hardware, software, equipment and embedded technology to determine
    if any of this software and technology is not Year 2000 compliant; and

  . to determine whether companies with which it does significant business
    will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely basis.

The next stage in the project will be to correct or replace and test all such
hardware, software, equipment and embedded technology of ACT. In the second
phase of the project, ACT will also address the Year 2000 issues identified at
ACT's vendors and customers, as appropriate. The project is being conducted by
ACT using internal and external resources. Finally, ACT will determine the need
to formulate and revise contingency plans based on the results of its
assessment and remediation efforts with regard to its own Year 2000 issues as
well as those of its customers and suppliers.

                                       92
<PAGE>

   ACT has completed the assessment stage of the project and has commenced the
remediation stage. ACT has discussed Year 2000 compliance with its vendors,
third-party service providers and customers. ACT has not been informed by any
vendor, third party service provider or customer of material Year 2000
compliance problems which could cause a material disruption in ACT's
operations. ACT will continue to work with its vendors, third party service
providers and customers to identify any possible issues, including testing
interfaces and site audits.

   Based on its review to date, ACT expects the total cost of its Year 2000
assessment and remediation project to be approximately $1.7 million, of which
approximately $0.4 million has been expensed to date. ACT's current
expectations regarding the total cost of its Year 2000 project are subject to
change as the project progresses and more detailed information is developed
regarding the remediation efforts necessary to make ACT Year 2000 compliant on
a timely basis. The sources of the funds for ACT's Year 2000 project are
operating cash flow and available equipment lease-lines. No other material IT
project has been deferred as a result of the Year 2000 project. ACT currently
does not believe that internal Year 2000 issues will have a material adverse
effect on ACT's business. ACT cannot assure you of this, however.

   ACT has identified its significant systems which could be adversely
affected by Year 2000 issues to be:

  . manufacturing equipment (including surface mount technology lines) and
    testing equipment;

  . integrated enterprise resource planning systems and networking software
    and equipment used in its Massachusetts, Georgia and Ireland facilities;
    and

  . electronic commerce capabilities.

   ACT has obtained certifications from its equipment vendors indicating that
its critical manufacturing and testing equipment is Year 2000 compliant. ACT
plans to test its critical equipment by June 30, 1999. ACT has installed a
vendor-certified Year 2000 compliant version of enterprise resource planning
software in its Massachusetts facilities. ACT plans to test such enterprise
resource planning software by June 30, 1999. The version of the enterprise
resource planning software used by ACT's Georgia facility is certified as Year
2000 compliant by the vendor and was installed and tested by ACT in February
1999. The enterprise resource planning systems used in ACT's Ireland facility
is not Year 2000 compliant and cannot be upgraded. ACT has purchased for its
Ireland facility the version of the vendor-certified Year 2000 compliant
software utilized in its Georgia facility. ACT engaged the software vendor to
assist in implementing the new enterprise resource planning system in its
Ireland facility. The new enterprise resource planning system has been
installed in ACT's Ireland facility and it is expected to be operational by
July 1, 1999. All network software and electronic commerce capabilities are in
the remediation phase with completion of testing and contingency planning
scheduled for June 30, 1999. For the above identified applications, ACT is
developing manual process procedures as a contingency plan.

   ACT's plans and programs to become Year 2000 compliant may not succeed in
their entirety, or be completed on a timely basis. Also, the use of ACT's
internal resources to complete the project may adversely affect other aspects
of ACT's business. ACT's ability to implement its Year 2000 compliance plan
and to make the necessary modifications or replacements may be adversely
affected by a number of factors outside its control, including:

  . the availability and cost of trained personnel;

  . the ability of such personnel to acquire Year 2000 compliant systems; and

  . the ability of such personnel to otherwise locate and correct all
    relevant computer codes.

   In addition, one or more of ACT's vendors, third party service providers or
customers may have material Year 2000 compliance problems. If either ACT or
any of its customers or suppliers fail to become Year 2000 complaint on a
timely basis, or if the costs to ACT are significantly greater than currently
anticipated, the result could be a significant disruption in ACT's business.
Any such failure would result in a material adverse effect on ACT's business,
financial condition or results of operations.

New Financial Accounting Standards

   In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments
and Hedging Activities," effective for the fiscal

                                      93
<PAGE>

years beginning after June 15, 1999. The new standard requires that all
companies record derivatives on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities,
measured at fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of
those derivatives would be accounted for depending on the use of the derivative
and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. Management is currently
assessing the impact of SFAS No. 133 on the consolidated financial statements
of ACT. ACT will adopt this accounting standard on January 1, 2000, as
required.

         ACT QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

   ACT is exposed to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange
primarily in its cash, debt and foreign currency transactions. ACT does not
hold derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

   ACT has a $55.0 million Senior Secured Credit Facility which bears interest
at a variable interest rate. ACT has also entered into a $17.0 million interest
rate swap agreement which matures in October 2001 in order to reduce the impact
of fluctuating interest rates on its Credit Facility. This swap agreement is
classified as held for purposes other than trading. Under this swap agreement,
ACT agrees with the counterpart to pay fixed rate payments on a monthly basis,
based upon an annual interest rate of 6.76%, in exchange for receiving variable
rate payments on a monthly basis, calculated on an agreed-upon notional amount.
Net interest payments or receipts from interest rate swaps are recorded as
adjustments to interest expense in ACT's Condensed Consolidated Statement of
Operations. ACT's exposure related to adverse movements in interest rates is
primarily derived from the variable rate on the remainder of ACT's Credit
Facility. As of March 31, 1999, $17.0 million of the outstanding balance of
$41.3 million under the Credit Facility was at a rate of 6.76%. The remainder
of the Credit Facility was at an 8.0% interest rate. Based on the portion of
this balance in excess of $17 million, an adverse change of one percent in the
interest rate would cause a change in interest expense of approximately
$243,000 on an annual basis.

   The foreign currency to which ACT has exchange rate exposure is the Irish
punt. International operations do not currently constitute a significant
portion of the revenues of ACT. Therefore this exposure is not considered
material to ACT.

   Based on a hypothetical ten percent adverse movement in interest rates and
foreign currency exchange rates, the potential losses in future earnings, fair
value of the risk-sensitive financial instruments and cash flows are
immaterial. However, the actual effects of interest rates and foreign currency
exchange rates may differ materially from the hypothetical analysis.

                            ACT CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS

Agreements with Donald G. Polich

   ACT is a party to two separate Consulting Agreements dated as of August 4,
1993, as amended, with Re-Act Consulting, a consulting company of which Mr.
Polich, a director of ACT, and Nelva Polich, Mr. Polich's wife, are the owners
and employees. Each of such Consulting Agreements terminate on August 4, 2003.
The Consulting Agreements provide for initial monthly consulting fees of
approximately $16,500 which increase by eight percent (8%) per annum. ACT paid
consulting fees under the Consulting Agreements of approximately $280,000
during 1998.

   ACT is a party to two separate Noncompetition Agreements dated as of January
1, 1993, as amended, with Mr. Polich. Each of the Noncompetition Agreements
terminate on January 1, 2003. Under these agreements, Mr. Polich agreed not to
engage in any business activity in the United States which is directly or
indirectly in competition with ACT, including businesses relating to cable and
harness assembly, printed circuit board assembly, subassembly and assembly of
final products. Mr. Polich is prohibited from soliciting any employee of ACT to
become an employee of any competing organization during the term of such
agreements. Pursuant to the Noncompetition Agreements, ACT paid to Mr. Polich
approximately $73,000 during 1998.

                                       94
<PAGE>

   Pursuant to a Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of January 1, 1993, as
amended, among ACT, Mr. Pino and Mr. Polich, Mr. Pino agreed to vote his shares
in ACT in favor of electing Mr. Polich as a director of ACT until the earlier
of: January 1, 2003 or the date on which all payments required by ACT under the
Consulting Agreements and Noncompetition Agreements have been paid in full. In
addition, ACT agreed that during such time that Mr. Polich is entitled to be
elected a director:

  . Mr. Polich will receive annual director fees from ACT in the amount of
    $7,500 (provided, that such fees shall be applied to Mr. Polich's $70,686
    loan, as of such date, from ACT to him);

  . ACT will maintain a $1,000,000 term life insurance policy on his life
    payable to his spouse; and

  . ACT will provide Mr. and Mrs. Polich with health insurance pursuant to
    the standard health insurance benefits provided to employees of ACT.

During 1998, ACT applied the $7,500 director's fees against Mr. Polich's loan
from ACT described below. ACT paid approximately $5,800 in premiums for the
insurance policy on Mr. Polich's life in 1998. ACT also paid approximately
$4,600 in health insurance premiums for Mr. and Mrs. Polich in 1998.

   Mr. Polich is the obligor on a promissory note in the original principal
amount of $70,686 payable to ACT. The obligation is evidenced by a note dated
December 31, 1992 which bears interest at six percent per annum, and the $7,500
in annual director's fees which are paid to Mr. Polich are applied to the
principal and interest due on such note. All unpaid principal and accrued
interest is due December 31, 2002. As of December 31, 1998, the principal and
accrued interest outstanding on the promissory note was $34,334.

Re-Act Realty Trust

   ACT leases two facilities in Hudson, Massachusetts and in 1998 leased
certain equipment from Re-Act Realty Trust, a Massachusetts nominee trust. Mr.
Pino is trustee of the Re-Act Realty Trust and the beneficiaries are Mr. Pino
and Janet M. Pino, Mr. Pino's wife. The two facility leases provide for terms
expiring in 2003, and provided for total base monthly rent during 1998 of
approximately $32,000. ACT assumes the cost of all taxes, betterment
assessments, insurance costs, utility costs and all other operating and
maintenance expenses for the facilities. The equipment lease expired on
December 31, 1998. Under the leases, ACT paid Re-Act Realty Trust a total of
approximately $388,000 during 1998.

Split-Dollar Life Insurance Agreement

   In September 1996, ACT entered into a "split-dollar" life insurance
agreement with a trust established by John A. Pino and his wife, Janet M. Pino.
Under the terms of the agreement, ACT and the trust will share in the premium
costs of a whole life insurance policy on the joint lives of Mr. and Mrs. Pino.
ACT is entitled to reimbursement of the amounts advanced, without interest,
upon the first to occur of:

  . the death of the later of Mr. or Mrs. Pino; or

  . the surrender of the policy.

These advances are secured by a collateral assignment of the policy to ACT. In
1998, ACT advanced approximately $196,000 toward the payment of the premiums.

Other Transactions

   ACT has entered into a Registration Rights Agreement dated February 8, 1995
with Mr. Pino and certain trusts previously established by Mr. Pino. Pursuant
to such agreement, ACT, under certain circumstances, will be required to
register their shares of common stock under the Securities Act of 1933.

   ACT has adopted a policy whereby all material future transactions between
ACT and its officers, directors and affiliates will be on terms no less
favorable to ACT than could be obtained from unrelated third parties. Such
transactions will also be approved by a majority of the disinterested members
of ACT's board of directors.

                                       95
<PAGE>

                   ACT MANAGEMENT AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

   The following table sets forth the directors and the executive officers of
ACT, their ages, and the positions currently held by each such person with ACT:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
               Name           Age                      Position
               ----           ---                      --------
      <C>                     <C> <S>
      John A. Pino            51  President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of
                                  the Board

      Jeffrey B. Lavin        44  Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial
                                  Officer, Treasurer and Clerk

      Gary Barnier            37  Vice President of Operations, Printed Circuit
                                  Board Division

      Robert W. Egan, Jr.     42  Vice President of Business Development

      Douglass C. Greenlaw    48  Vice President of Strategic Development

      David Harrington        41  Vice President of Worldwide Materials Management

      Blaise E. Scioli        41  Vice President and General Manager of Cable
                                  Division

      Edward T. Cuddy (1)(3)  63  Director

      Bruce R. Gardner (2)(3) 56  Director

      Donald G. Polich (1)(2) 64  Director
</TABLE>
- --------

(1) Member of Compensation Committee

(2) Member of Audit Committee

(3) Member of Stock Option Committee

Directors

   Edward T. Cuddy joined ACT as a Director in April 1995. In August 1995, Mr.
Cuddy retired from his position as Vice President of Manufacturing and Member
of the Senior Staff at GTECH Corporation, a firm which designs, manufactures,
installs and services customized computer equipment for state and local
governments. In addition to serving on ACT's board, Mr. Cuddy currently serves
as a director of Terascape Software, Inc., a privately-held software company
which optimizes database storage and management, a director of Worldwide
Interchange Network, Inc., a privately-held consulting company assisting
companies wishing to manufacture in or export to Southeast Asia, and as a
member of the Executive Advisory Board of The Register Company, a privately-
held worldwide provider of training and consulting in the quality field.

   Donald G. Polich has been an independent consultant since January 1993,
following the sale by him of all of the outstanding stock of ACT and Automated
Component Technologies, Inc. ("ACT II"), ACT's printed circuit board assembly
predecessor, to Mr. Pino. Mr. Polich has served as a Director of ACT since he
founded it in 1982. Mr. Polich also served as the President and Chief Executive
Officer of ACT from inception until February 1988, and was President and Chief
Executive Officer and a director of ACT II from its inception in December 1986
until March 1992.

   John A. Pino joined ACT as President and a Director in February 1988. He
also became Executive Vice President of ACT II in March 1991, and President of
that company in March 1992. Mr. Pino became Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of ACT in January 1993 and served as Treasurer of ACT from
January 1993 to February 1995. Prior to joining ACT, he had served as Vice
President of Finance for New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. and Visual Technology,
Inc. and as Corporate Controller for Datacon, Inc.

                                       96
<PAGE>

   Bruce R. Gardner has been a director of ACT since December 1994. Mr. Gardner
has been the President since November 1997, and prior to that, the Chief
Financial Officer and Treasurer and a director of Datawatch Corporation, a
provider of personal computer software, since co-founding that corporation in
1985. Mr. Gardner was a Senior Vice President of Datawatch until June 1993 when
he became Executive Vice President of that company.

Executive Officers

   Jeffrey B. Lavin joined ACT as Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial
Officer, Treasurer and Clerk in December 1998. Prior to joining ACT, Mr. Lavin
was Corporate Controller for Wyman-Gordon Company, a publicly-traded
international manufacturer of highly engineered components, primarily for the
aerospace industry, from 1994 to 1998. Mr. Lavin also served as Senior
Consultant with Siegel & Dunn, a management consulting firm providing a broad
range of services, including turnaround management, from 1991 to 1994 and as
Chief Financial Officer, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer with Patten
Corporation, a publicly-traded retail real estate and mortgage banking company,
from 1986 to 1991.

   Gary Barnier has been the Vice President of Operations, Printed Circuit
Board Division, since May 1999. Prior to that, Mr. Barnier was the Director of
Test Engineering and Quality Systems of ACT from April 1998 until May 1999 and
Director of Test Engineering from May 1997 until April 1998. He has held
various other positions since joining ACT in May 1990.

   Robert W. Egan, Jr. has been the Vice President of Business Development
since March 1994. Mr. Egan was the Director of Business Development for
Lockheed Commercial Electronics Company, a contract manufacturer, from March
1992 to February 1994. Prior to that, he served as the Vice President of Sales
and Marketing for Heliotron Corporation, a contract manufacturer, from April
1990 to March 1992. From April 1988 to March 1990, Mr. Egan was a marketing
manager for SCI Systems, Inc., a contract manufacturer.

   Douglass C. Greenlaw has been the Vice President of Strategic Development
since November 1998. He was Vice President of Finance and Administration and
Chief Financial Officer of ACT from January 1995 until November 1998, and
Treasurer and Clerk of ACT from February 1995 until December 1998. Prior to
joining ACT, Mr. Greenlaw was Vice President of Finance and Administration and
Chief Financial Officer at BioSepra, Inc., a developer of chemical media and
process systems, from April 1994 to January 1995. He served Corporate Software
Incorporated, a reseller of computer software and related services, as Vice
President of Operations from July 1993 until April 1994 and as Vice President
of Finance and Chief Financial Officer from April 1991 until July 1993. Prior
to April 1991, Mr. Greenlaw had been with Millipore Corporation, a separations
company, and since December 1984 had been the Vice President of Finance and
Administration of the Waters Chromatography division.

   David F. Harrington joined ACT as Director of Materials Management in June
1997 and became Vice President of Worldwide Materials Management in March 1999.
Prior to joining ACT, Mr. Harrington served as Director of Procurement for Data
General Co., a manufacturer of electronic hardware and software products, from
October 1994 to June 1997. Mr. Harrington held various materials management
positions at Hewlett Packard, a global producer of computers and test and
measurement instruments, from February 1988 to October 1994 and at Apollo
Computer, a computer manufacturing company, from October 1982 to February 1988.

   Blaise E. Scioli has been the Vice President and General Manager of ACT's
Cable Division since April 1998 and was the Vice President of Sales and
Marketing from 1991 through April 1998. He has held several management
positions in ACT since joining in June 1986. Prior to joining ACT, Mr. Scioli
held various sales and marketing positions for AMP, Inc., a manufacturer of
electronic interconnection products, from August 1981 to June 1986.

   Executive officers of ACT are elected by the board of directors on an annual
basis and serve until their successors have been duly elected and qualified.
There are no family relations among any of the executive officers or directors
of ACT.

                                       97
<PAGE>

The Board of Directors and its Committees

   The board of directors met ten times and took action by unanimous written
consent four times during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998.

   The Audit Committee of the board of directors, presently comprised of
Messrs. Gardner and Polich, both outside directors of ACT, was established on
March 29, 1995. The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the results
and scope of audits and other services provided by ACT's independent auditors
and reviewing ACT's internal accounting control policies and procedures. The
Audit Committee met four times and took action by unanimous written consent two
times during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998.

   The Compensation Committee of the board of directors, presently comprised of
Messrs. Polich and Cuddy, both outside directors of ACT, was established on
March 29, 1995. The Compensation Committee reviews and makes recommendations
concerning the salaries and incentive compensation of senior executives and
employees of and consultants to ACT, and oversees the administration of ACT's
401(k) plan. The Compensation Committee met once during the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1998.

   The Stock Option Committee of the board of directors, presently comprised of
Messrs. Gardner and Cuddy, both outside directors of ACT, was established on
March 29, 1995. The Stock Option Committee oversees and administers ACT's 1993
Stock Option Plan, 1995 Stock Plan and 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option
Plan. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998, the Stock Option
Committee took action by written consent three times.

   The board of directors does not currently have a nominating committee. Each
of the directors attended at least 75% of the total number of meetings of the
board of directors and all committees of the board of directors on which he
served during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998.

Compensation of Directors

   As compensation for serving on the board of directors, ACT pays each non-
employee director $5,000 annually and an additional $1,000 for each meeting of
the board of directors that they attend. Non-employee directors also receive
$500 for their attendance at each meeting of any board committees on which they
serve unless such committee meeting is held on the same date as a meeting of
the board, and will be reimbursed for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
incurred in attending board and committee meetings. Non-employee directors are
also automatically granted options to purchase shares of ACT's common stock
pursuant to the 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan. Mr. Polich
receives minimum annual director's fees, payable quarterly, of $7,500 for his
service on the board of directors.

   Directors who are officers or employees of ACT do not receive any additional
compensation for their services as directors.

                                       98
<PAGE>

Executive Compensation Summary

   The following table shows certain information with respect to the annual and
long-term compensation of ACT's Chief Executive Officer and each of ACT's four
other most highly compensated executive officers (collectively, the "Named
Executive Officers") for the fiscal years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and
1996.

                           Summary Compensation Table

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     Annual            Long-Term
                                 Compensation(1)    Compensation(2)
                              --------------------- ---------------
                                                        Awards
                                                    ---------------
                                        Commission    Securities
Name and Principal                          and       Underlying        All Other
Position                 Year Salary($) Bonus($)(3) Options/SARs(#)  Compensation(4)
- ------------------       ---- --------- ----------- ---------------  ---------------
<S>                      <C>  <C>       <C>         <C>              <C>
John A. Pino............ 1998 $200,000    $   --            --          $196,630(5)
 President, Chief
 Executive Officer and   1997  200,000        --            --           196,685(5)
 Chairman of the Board   1996  180,000    100,000           --           196,174(5)

Jeffrey B. Lavin(6)..... 1998   11,560     20,000       100,000              --
 Vice President of
 Finance, Chief
 Financial Officer,
 Treasurer and Clerk

Douglass C. Greenlaw.... 1998  165,000        --         12,000(7)           540
                                                         54,000(7)
 Vice President of
 Strategic               1997  165,000        --         66,000              723
 Development             1996  150,000     60,000        12,000              174

Blaise E. Scioli........ 1998  125,000    120,000       100,000              540
                                                         12,000(7)
 Vice President and
 General Manager of      1997  100,000        --         12,000              484
 Cable Division          1996  100,000      5,528        12,000               66

Robert W. Egan, Jr...... 1998  100,000        --         12,000(7)           540
 Vice President of
 Business                1997  100,000        --         12,000              503
 Development             1996  100,000     68,178        12,000               51
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Excludes perquisites and other personal benefits, if any, the aggregate
    annual amount of which for each officer was less than the lesser of $50,000
    or 10% of the total of annual salary and commission and bonus reported.
(2) ACT did not grant any restricted stock awards or stock appreciation rights
    or make any long-term incentive plan payouts during the fiscal years 1998,
    1997 or 1996.
(3) Bonuses are reported in the year earned, even if actually paid in a
    subsequent year.
(4) Consists of premiums for term life insurance paid by ACT on behalf of the
    Named Executive Officer and ACT's matching contributions related to ACT's
    401(k) Plan.
(5) Includes life insurance premiums paid by ACT on behalf of Mr. Pino in
    fiscal 1996, 1997 or 1988, as applicable, on a split-dollar life insurance
    policy as described below under "Split-Dollar Life Insurance Agreement."
(6) Mr. Lavin's employment with ACT began in December 1998. Mr. Lavin's fiscal
    1998 base salary was $152,500.
(7) Represents stock options that were issued in the January 1998 repricing in
    exchange for an equivalent number of previously outstanding stock options
    granted in 1997 which had an exercise price greater than the fair market
    value of ACT's Common Stock on January 1998. Other than the exercise price,
    the material terms and conditions applicable to these options are the same
    as the old options, including the terms of vesting. See "--Option
    Repricings."

                                       99
<PAGE>

Option/SAR Grants in Last Fiscal Year

   The following table shows information regarding grants of stock options to
the Named Executive Officers pursuant to ACT's stock plans during the year
ended December 31, 1998. ACT did not grant any stock appreciation rights in
fiscal 1998.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      Individual Grants
                        -----------------------------------------------
                                     Percent of                              Potential
                                       Total                            Realizable Value at
                        Number of     Options/                            Assumed Annual
                        Securities      SARs                              Rates of Stock
                        Underlying   Granted to                         Price Appreciation
                         Options/    Employees    Exercise              for Option Term(2)
                           SARs      in Fiscal     Price     Expiration -------------------
Name                    Granted(#)    Year(%)   ($/Share)(1)    Date     5%($)     10%($)
- ----                    ----------   ---------- ------------ ---------- -------- ----------
<S>                     <C>          <C>        <C>          <C>        <C>      <C>
John A. Pino...........      --          --           --        --           --         --
 President, Chief
 Executive Officer and
 Chairman of the Board

Jeffrey B. Lavin(6)....  100,000(3)     9.79%      $ 8.81     12/3/09   $554,213 $1,404,486
 Vice President of
 Finance, Chief
 Financial Officer,
 Treasurer and Clerk

Douglass C. Greenlaw...   12,000(5)     1.18%      $13.94      3/6/07   $105,183 $  266,553
 Vice President of
 Strategic Development    54,000(5)     5.29%      $13.94      3/6/07   $473,322 $1,199,490

Blaise E. Scioli.......  100,000(4)     9.79%      $ 7.88     10/30/08  $495,255 $1,255,072
 Vice President and
 General Manager of
 Cable Division           12,000(5)     1.18%      $13.94      3/6/07   $105,183 $  266,553

Robert W. Egan, Jr.....   12,000(5)     1.18%      $13.94      3/6/07   $105,183 $  266,553
 Vice President of
 Business Development
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) All options were granted at fair market value as determined by the Board of
    Directors on the date of grant.
(2) Amounts reported in these columns represent amounts that may be realized
    upon exercise of the options immediately prior to the expiration of their
    terms assuming the specified compounded rates of application (5% and 10%)
    on the market value of ACT's Common Stock on the date of option grant over
    the term of the options. These numbers are calculated based on rules
    promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and do not reflect
    ACT's estimate of future stock price growth. Actual gains, if any, on stock
    option exercises and Common Stock holders are dependent on the timing of
    such exercise and the future performance of ACT's Common stock. There can
    be no assurance that the rates of appreciation assumed in this table can be
    achieved or that the amounts reflected will be received by the Named
    Executive Officers.
(3) The options become exercisable at the rate of 20% per annum.
(4) The options become exercisable at the rate of 33 1/3% per annum.
(5) Represents stock options that were issued in the January 1998 repricing
    with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of ACT's Common Stock
    ($13.94) on the date of the repricing (January 16, 1998) in exchange for an
    equivalent number of previously outstanding stock options granted in 1997
    which had an exercise price greater than the fair market value of the
    Corporation's Common Stock on January 16, 1998. See "--Option Repricings."

                                      100
<PAGE>

Option Exercises and Fiscal Year-End Values

   The following table sets forth information with respect to options to
purchase ACT's Common Stock granted to the Named Executive Officers under ACT's
stock plans, including (i) the number of shares of Common Stock purchased upon
exercise of options during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998; (ii) the
net value realized upon such exercise; (iii) the number of unexercised options
outstanding at December 31, 1998; and (iv) the value of such unexercised
options at December 31, 1998.

            Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and
                     Option/SAR Values at December 31, 1998

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             Number of Securities
                          Shares            Underlying Unexercised   Value of Unexercised In-
                         Acquired          Options/SARs at December  the-Money Options/SARs at
                            on     Value          31, 1998(#)          December 31, 1998($)
                         Exercise Realized ------------------------- -------------------------
Name                       (#)     ($)(1)  Exercisable/Unexercisable Exercisable/Unexercisable
- ----                     -------- -------- ------------------------- -------------------------
<S>                      <C>      <C>      <C>                       <C>
John A. Pino............   --       --                --                        --
Jeffrey B. Lavin........   --       --             0/100,000             $      0/$550,050
Douglass C. Greenlaw....   --       --          79,200/110,800           $525,440/$367,155
Blaise E. Scioli........   --       --          75,200/112,000           $830,202/$663,056
Robert W. Egan, Jr......   --       --           33,200/28,800           $263,252/$182,922
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Amounts disclosed in this column were calculated based on the difference
    between the fair market value of ACT's Common Stock on the date of exercise
    and the exercise price of the options in accordance with regulations
    promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
    "Exchange Act"), and do not necessarily reflect amounts received by the
    Named Executive Officers.
(2) Value is based on the difference between the option exercise price and the
    fair market value at December 31, 1998, the last day during fiscal year
    1998 for which market prices are available ($14.313 per share as quoted on
    the Nasdaq National Market), multiplied by the number of shares underlying
    the options. The actual gains, if any, on the stock option exercises will
    depend on the future performance of the Common Stock, the optionholder's
    continued employment through the date on which the options are exercised
    and the date on which the underlying shares of Common Stock are sold.

Option Repricings

   In January 1998, in order to re-establish the incentive nature of
outstanding stock options with exercise prices greater than the then current
fair market value of ACT's Common Stock, ACT offered to each employee who was
granted a stock option under ACT's 1995 Stock Plan during the 1997 fiscal year
(each, an "Old Option" and collectively, the "Old Options"), the opportunity to
exchange such option for an option covering an equivalent number of shares with
an exercise price equal to the then current fair market value of ACT's Common
Stock (each, a "New Option" and collectively, the "New Options"). Other than a
reduction in the exercise price, all material terms and conditions applicable
to the New Options are the same as the Old Options, including the terms of
vesting. In total, Old Options to purchase an aggregate of 516,500 shares of
Common Stock at exercise prices ranging from $14.44 to $39.25 were exchanged
for New Options. ACT has not issued, repriced or amended any stock appreciation
rights.

                                      101
<PAGE>

   The following table provides the specified information concerning the
repricing of options to purchase ACT's Common Stock held by any executive
officer of ACT for the one time such repricing has occurred since March 30,
1995, the date of ACT's initial public offering of its Common Stock:

                           Ten-Year Option Repricings

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 Number of                                        Length of
                                Securities  Market Price   Exercise            Original Option
                                Underlying  of Stock at    Price at            Term Remaining
                                  Options     Time Of      Time of      New      At Date of
                                Repriced or Repricing or Repricing or Exercise  Repricing or
Name and Position        Date    Amended(#) Amendment($) Amendment($) Price($)    Amendment
- -----------------        ----   ----------- ------------ ------------ -------- ---------------
<S>                     <C>     <C>         <C>          <C>          <C>      <C>
Douglass C. Greenlaw... 1/16/98   12,000       $13.94       $19.38     $13.94     9.2 years
 Vice President of      1/16/98   54,000       $13.94       $19.38     $13.94     9.2 years
 Strategic Development

Blaise E. Scioli....... 1/16/98   12,000       $13.94       $19.38     $13.94     9.2 years
 Vice President and
 General Manager of
 Cable Division

Robert W. Egan, Jr..... 1/16/98   12,000       $13.94       $19.38     $13.94     9.2 years
 Vice President of
  Business Development

David Harington........ 1/16/98   25,000       $13.94       $39.25     $13.94     9.5 years
 Vice President of
 Worldwide Materials
 Management
</TABLE>
- --------
   All repriced options described in the table have a term of ten years from
   the date of grant.

                                      102
<PAGE>

                           SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF ACT

   The following table sets forth as of June 21, 1999 certain information
regarding beneficial ownership of ACT's Common Stock by: (i) each person who,
to the knowledge of ACT, owned beneficially more than 5% of the shares of
Common Stock ACT outstanding at such date; (ii) each director or nominee for
director of ACT; (iii) each executive officer identified in the Summary
Compensation Table set forth below under the heading "Executive Compensation
Summary"; and (iv) all directors, nominees for election to the Board of
Directors and executive officers of ACT as a group.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
      Name and Address of Beneficial     Amount and Nature Percentage of Common
      Owner                               Of Ownership(1)  Stock Outstanding(2)
      ------------------------------     ----------------- --------------------
      <S>                                <C>               <C>
      Douglas R. Ederle(3)..............       947,078             10.4%
       c/o Pell Rudman & Co., Inc. 100
       Federal Street Boston, MA 02110
      John A. Pino(4)...................     5,020,722             55.2
       c/o ACT Manufacturing, Inc. 2
       Cabot Road Hudson, MA 01749
      Jeffrey B. Lavin..................             0               *
      Douglass C. Greenlaw(5)...........       122,318              1.3
      Blaise E. Scioli(6)...............        83,300               *
      Robert W. Egan, Jr.(7)............        58,100               *
      Edward T. Cuddy(8)................        16,000               *
      Bruce R. Gardner(9)...............        16,332               *
      Donald G. Polich(9)...............        15,332               *
      All directors and executive
       officers as a group (10
       persons)(10).....................     5,347,784             56.9%
</TABLE>
- --------
*Less than 1% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock.

(1) Except as otherwise noted, each person or entity named in the table has
    sole voting and investment power with respect to their shares of Common
    Stock, except to the extent authority is shared by spouses under applicable
    law.

(2) The number of shares of Common Stock deemed outstanding on June 21, 1999
    with respect to a person or group includes: (i) 9,091,600 shares of Common
    Stock outstanding on such date and (ii) all options that are currently
    exercisable or will become exercisable within 60 days of June 21, 1999 by
    the person or group in question.

(3) According to an amended Schedule 13D filed with the Securities and Exchange
    Commission on May 20, 1999. Consists of (a) 500,000 shares held by the 1998
    John A. Pino Grantor Retained Annuity Trust dated June 15, 1998, of which
    Mr. Ederle is a trustee, (b) 96,166 shares held by Mr. Ederle as trustee of
    the Pino Family Trust, a trust for the benefit of Janet M. Pino, Mr. Pino's
    wife, his children and his issue, (c) 175,456 shares held by Mr. Ederle as
    trustee of the John M. Pino Trust, a trust for the benefit of John M. Pino,
    Mr. Pino's son, and (d) 175,456 shares held by Mr. Ederle as trustee of the
    Melissa A. Pino Trust, a trust for the benefit of Melissa A. Pino, Mr.
    Pino's daughter. Mr. Ederle disclaims beneficial ownership of all such
    shares.

(4) Includes (a) 73,154 shares held by the John A. Pino Grantor Retained
    Annuity Trust II dated August 16, 1996, of which Mr. Pino is a trustee and
    (b) 500,000 shares held by the 1998 John A. Pino Grantor Retained Annuity
    Trust dated June 15, 1998, of which Mr. Ederle is the trustee. Excludes (a)
    96,166 shares held by Douglas R. Ederle, Trustee of the Pino Family Trust,
    a trust for the benefit of Janet M. Pino, Mr. Pino's wife, his children and
    his issue, (b) 175,456 shares held by Douglas R. Ederle, Trustee of the
    John M. Pino Trust, a trust for the benefit of John M. Pino, Mr. Pino's
    son, and (c) 175,456 shares held by Douglas R. Ederle, Trustee of the
    Melissa A. Pino Trust, a trust for the benefit of Melissa A. Pino, Mr.
    Pino's daughter.

                                      103
<PAGE>

(5) Includes 109,600 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
    options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

(6) Includes 83,200 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
    options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

(7) Includes 58,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
    options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

(8) Includes 14,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
    options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

(9) Includes 15,332 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
    options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

(10) Includes 311,144 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock
     options exercisable on June 21, 1999 or within 60 days thereafter.

                                      104
<PAGE>

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

                                  CMC BUSINESS

   CMC Industries, Inc. together with its predecessor business, has been a
manufacturer of telecommunications systems and equipment for over 30
years. CMC was incorporated in 1990 to acquire from Alcatel Network
Systems, Inc. certain businesses operated from 1960 to 1987 by ITT and
from 1987 to 1990 by Alcatel, n.v., a joint venture between ITT and
Compagnie Generale d'Electricite. In August 1993, CMC transferred certain
assets and related liabilities associated with its telecommunications
business to Cortelco Systems Holding Corp. in exchange for 1,000,000
shares of preferred stock of Cortelco. These transactions effectively
transferred to Cortelco all of CMC's assets and liabilities not related to
its electronic manufacturing business.

   CMC provides a broad spectrum of manufacturing services primarily based on
the manufacture of printed circuit board assemblies utilizing automated pin-
through-hole technology, surface mount technology and ball grid array placement
techniques. PTH technology involves the attachment of electronic components to
a printed circuit board by inserting the leads of the components through holes
in the board and soldering the leads on the underside of the board. SMT and BGA
technologies involve the attachment of electronic components directly to the
surface of the board, and accordingly permits components to be mounted on each
side of the board. In addition, CMC provides full systems integration assembly
and test, materials procurement, distribution, product design and engineering
support services. CMC has manufacturing facilities in Corinth, Mississippi,
Santa Clara, California (Silicon Valley) and Hermosillo, Mexico. CMC believes
that these locations enable it to meet the cost and geographic distribution
requirements of its customers. CMC's major customers currently include:

   .RELTEC Corporation,

   .Diamond Multimedia Systems, Inc.,

   .Next Level Communications,

   .Harris Corporation,

   .Premisys Communications, Inc.,

   .Midway Games, Inc.,

   .Cortelco,

   .Telular Corporation, and

   .Proxim, Inc.

Customers and Marketing

   Telecommunications products have been manufactured at CMC's facility in
Corinth, Mississippi for over 30 years. From 1960 to 1987, the operations at
Corinth were owned and operated by ITT, which established a reputation for
quality manufacturing of telecommunications products and services to its
customers. CMC believes the telecommunications manufacturing expertise that it
has acquired over three decades is a competitive strength, allowing it to meet
customer requirements for strict quality control, prompt turnaround and
flexible response to design changes. Capitalizing on this expertise, CMC has
expanded into the manufacture of computer equipment and related peripherals and
data networking equipment. CMC is seeking to leverage its capacity and
manufacturing expertise by expanding sales to new customers with products that
are similar to its current customer base in the telecommunications, data
communications, computer-related products and value-added electronics
industries. In addition, CMC seeks to position its manufacturing operations at
strategic sites throughout the United States and worldwide. Corinth,
Mississippi is located in close proximity to major North American freight hub
locations, allowing for inexpensive ground transport and overnight air delivery
throughout the country. CMC's California facility is located in Santa Clara, in
the heart of the Silicon Valley, the site of many of CMC's current and
potential customers. During 1998, CMC added a manufacturing operation in
Hermosillo, Mexico, an international procurement office in Taipei, Taiwan and a
sales and procurement office in Huntsville, Alabama. Hermosillo offers an
attractive cost structure and solid logistics for current and prospective
customers and the location between two leading technical universities within
the city

                                      105
<PAGE>

provides access to a pool of qualified engineers and technicians. The Asian
Procurement office in Taiwan and corporate procurement office in Huntsville,
Alabama were established to increase access to low cost materials throughout a
product's life cycle.

   CMC provides electronic manufacturing services to major telecommunications
original equipment manufacturers as well as suppliers of computer monitors,
computer peripherals, data networking equipment and other electronic
components. In turn, CMC's customers sell these manufactured products into
domestic and worldwide markets. Products manufactured by CMC include:

   .telephones,

   .ISDN equipment,

   .key and PBX/ACD systems,

   .various data communications products, and

  .telecommunications switching equipment and printed circuit board
    assemblies for computer and communications equipment.

   Services provided include:

   .design for manufacturability and test,

   .materials procurement,

   .prototyping,

   .plastic injection molding,

   .printed circuit board assembly,

   .full board-level test,

   .system integration and configuration,

   .full system test,

   .packaging,

   .distribution and field return, and

   .repair support.

   Generally, relationships between CMC and its customers for the manufacture
of product and related services are defined by a succession of purchase orders
placed by the customer and performed upon by CMC.

   CMC offers electronic manufacturing services to its customers on both a
turnkey and consignment basis, with over 90% of CMC's net sales derived from
turnkey projects. In turnkey relationships, CMC both procures components and
other supplies and provides full manufacturing services. In consignment
relationships, the customer purchases and then provides components and other
supplies to CMC, and CMC charges for only labor and overhead. The establishment
of a turnkey relationship requires significant investment of resources by both
an original equipment manufacturer customer and a contract manufacturer. An
original equipment manufacturer customer must incur expense to qualify a
contract manufacturer by certifying the quality of the manufacturer's processes
and services and, in some cases, must also qualify a contract manufacturer's
sources of component supply. The original equipment manufacturer customer also
works with a contract manufacturer to refine product design and manufacturing
processes in order to optimize manufacturability. CMC believes that original
equipment manufacturer customers seek to establish relationships with turnkey
manufacturing partners they perceive will be able to meet their production
requirements over a long period of time and for successive product generations.
CMC believes that these relationships, once established, tend to be sustaining
in nature due to the significant investment of time and resources by both CMC
and the original equipment manufacturer customer. Accordingly, CMC believes
that its emphasis on turnkey manufacturing results in greater stability of its
customer base. However, CMC's results of operations have been in the past and
may be in the future materially adversely affected in the event customers for
whom CMC manufactures products should cancel or

                                      106
<PAGE>

reschedule their existing and forecast orders. Such cancellations or
rescheduling could result in inefficient utilization of equipment and personnel
dedicated to the manufacture of the specific products. Moreover, because of
such stability, CMC may be unable to secure turnkey manufacturing projects from
new original equipment manufacturer customers working with competitors of CMC.
The failure of CMC to develop relationships with new original equipment
manufacturer customers also may materially and adversely affect CMC's results
of operations.

   CMC develops and maintains customer relationships through the efforts of
CMC's management team, direct sales force, program managers and project
engineers. Project engineers and program managers receive extensive training in
CMC's manufacturing and service capabilities in order to respond to the
specific needs of customers. CMC's project engineers work with the customers'
engineers and technical personnel to ensure a close working relationship and
understanding of the specific needs of each customer.

   CMC's three largest customers in the first nine months of fiscal 1999 and
their respective percentages of CMC's net sales for the nine months ended April
30, 1999, fiscal year 1998 and fiscal year 1997, respectively, were as follows:

   .Diamond Multimedia--30%, 9% and 2%;

   .Reltec Corporation--16%, 12% and 11%; and

   .Premisys Communications--11%, 4% and 0%.

   CMC derives revenues primarily from original equipment manufacturer
arrangements which prohibit the selling of the products manufactured to anyone
other than the original equipment manufacturer customer. As a result, CMC does
not typically allow its customers to return products, other than for repairs of
defective materials or for modifications requested by the customer. Products
sent to CMC for repair or modification are treated as customer property and
returned to the customer upon completion of the requested repairs or
modifications. The customer is charged for the costs of repair or modification
unless the repair corrected a defect resulting from faulty manufacturing and
occurred within the applicable warranty period. CMC recognizes revenue for the
manufacturing of products upon shipment to the customer. Charges for the repair
or modification of products are recognized as revenue to CMC when the repaired
or modified products are shipped back to the customer. This policy applies to
both affiliated and non-affiliated customers.

   It has been CMC's experience that orders for production of a given product
or product line typically decline over time as the customer's product or
product line matures. Generally, CMC has customers with products at various
stages in the product life cycles including development, volume production and
end-of-life production. In the event that CMC is unable to compensate for any
material reduction in sales of a given product over time through production of
replacement or new products for the customer or through new business with
alternative customers, CMC's revenues and operating results could be materially
adversely affected.

Manufacturing

 Manufacturing Services

   CMC's vertically-integrated turnkey manufacturing services include:

   .component procurement and testing,

   .printed circuit board assembly using SMT, PTH and BGA techniques,

   .post-assembly printed circuit board testing, in-circuit test development,

   .full system integration and test, and

   .product design and engineering support services.

                                      107
<PAGE>

   CMC provides a complete, vertically-integrated manufacturing solution with
manufacturing capabilities as diverse as plastic injection molding, final unit
assembly and testing. CMC delivers finished products to the original equipment
manufacturer or, if requested, delivers products directly to the original
equipment manufacturer's customers.

   CMC offers comprehensive and advanced manufacturing solutions to its
customers. CMC's broad range of manufacturing capabilities includes both
automated PTH and more advanced SMT processes, including BGA assemblies. CMC
offers vertical services such as component procurement, test, product design,
and other engineering services. Accordingly, CMC's production processes can
accommodate the manufacture of a broad range of communications and electronics
components and products. While CMC continually seeks to improve the flexibility
of its production systems, the commencement of production of new products
typically involves startup costs, lower yields and other inefficiencies.
Achievement of volume production for a new product typically requires a period
as short as several days for products substantially similar to those previously
manufactured by CMC, to as many as several months for completely new products.

   Since turnkey manufacturing may be a substitute for all or a portion of a
customer's in-house manufacturing capability, continuous technical and
administrative communication between CMC and its customer is required. CMC
establishes a close relationship with each original equipment manufacturer
customer in the early stages of product development to assist the customer in
the evaluation of board designs and thereby improve manufacturability and
testability. Building on this knowledge, CMC's technical staff monitors
manufacturing process yields and may propose engineering changes for product
improvement and cost reductions. Certain of the products manufactured by CMC
are in the early stages of their life cycles and may therefore have ongoing
design or engineering changes. CMC believes a critical element of turnkey
manufacturing services is the ability to respond rapidly to engineering design
changes. CMC believes that its history in design and manufacturing,
particularly in the telecommunications industry, and its close working
knowledge of its customers' products enables CMC to meet its customers' needs
effectively.

   A key element in turnkey manufacturing services is the procurement of
materials, which consists of the planning, purchasing, expediting, warehousing
and financing of the components and other materials required to assemble a PC
or system-level assembly. Original equipment manufacturers increasingly have
required contract manufacturers to purchase all or some components directly
from component manufacturers or distributors and to warehouse and finance the
components and materials. CMC orders materials and components based on purchase
orders received and accepted and seeks to minimize its inventory of materials
or components that are not identified for use in filling specific orders.
Electronic components are purchased directly by CMC and, in certain
circumstances, CMC bears the risk of component price fluctuations. The
electronics industry has been characterized by shortages from time to time of
microprocessors and other semiconductor components, which shortages have led to
allocations by third-party suppliers. These delays to date have not had a
material adverse effect on CMC's results of operations. If component shortages
occur, CMC may not be able to secure quantities required to fulfill orders,
which could result in delays in shipments, cancellation or delays in orders, or
losses resulting from price increases by suppliers of parts or components, all
of which could have a material adverse effect on CMC's results of operations.

   CMC provides complete turnkey manufacturing solutions for its customers from
its vertically-integrated 350,000 square foot facility in Corinth, Mississippi
and its 75,000 square foot facility in Santa Clara, California and from a new
110,000 square foot facility in Hermosillo, Mexico. CMC provides full SMT
assembly as well as complete systems integration, test and box-build
capabilities at each location.

 Manufacturing Processes

   CMC manufactures for its customers a wide variety of complex and
technologically advanced products that require a coordinated manufacturing
process. The process requires the application of advanced manufacturing
technologies and computerized in-circuit, functional and system testing
techniques. Current processes at CMC include fine-pitch SMT, PTH, BGA and
system box-build assemblies. CMC seeks to add

                                      108
<PAGE>

product lines that require advanced technological processes, in order to
further develop its manufacturing expertise. Company employees regularly attend
training seminars on the latest developments in manufacturing technologies.

   In PTH production, components are attached by pins, also called "leads,"
inserted through and soldered to plated holes in the printed circuit board. In
SMT production, the leads on integrated circuits and other electronic
components are soldered to the surface of the printed circuit board rather than
inserted into holes. SMT can accommodate a substantially higher number of leads
in a given area than PTH, thereby permitting the printed circuit board to
interconnect a greater density of integrated circuits, which permits tighter
component spacing and a reduction in the printed circuit board dimensions.
Additionally, SMT allows components to be placed on both sides of the printed
circuit board, thereby permitting even greater density. The substantially finer
lead-to-lead spacing or "pitch" in SMT requires a manufacturing process far
more exacting than the PTH interconnect products. Because of their high number
of leads, most very large scale integrated circuits are configured for SMT
production. SMT components are constantly changing, with BGA becoming the
package selection of many component manufacturers. The BGA assembly process
uses small balls of solder (instead of leads that could bend and break),
located directly underneath the part, to interconnect the component and circuit
board. X-ray equipment is instrumental in the development of BGA process
parameters, since the balls are located underneath the component and are not
visible through standard inspection techniques.

   CMC utilizes a computerized material requirements planning system to direct
the flow of materials through the manufacturing cycle. Printed circuit board
assemblies with PTH components are assembled using automatic insertion machines
for all eligible components, including axial, dual inline package, radial and
square-wire pins, which for most products allows over 90% of the total PTH
components to be automatically inserted. Manually assembled components are
either purchased or prepared in-house to allow for "drop-in" assembly on a
moving assembly conveyor that feeds the printed circuit board assemblies
directly into an automated soldering system that solders the pins to the
printed circuit board. For SMT printed circuit assemblies, CMC has full
capability to run either "top-side," "bottom-side" or "mixed-technology"
printed circuit board assemblies. Equipment capabilities include screen-
printing with vision and computer-controlled alignment; high-speed, in-line
epoxy dispensing; surface-mount component placement with speeds up to 44,500
components per hour per machine; assembly of fine-pitch components and
computer-controlled infrared reflow soldering.

   CMC subjects assembled and soldered boards to board-level in-circuit and
functional testing. As part of the final unit assembly process, CMC also
functionally tests all products to verify conformance to customer
specifications. If desired, product testing can include burn-in at elevated
temperatures utilizing CMC's in-house burn-in chambers. Printed circuit boards
utilized for telecommunication systems receive final system tests to verify the
functional integrity of each system.

 Quality

   CMC believes that the quality of its manufacturing and customer services is
critical to customer satisfaction and long-term success. CMC has emphasized the
pursuit of high quality for many years. From 1960 to 1987, CMC's Corinth
facility was part of ITT, which pioneered many quality improvement processes.
Many of CMC's manufacturing and customer support personnel were trained in
quality principles and practices as employees of ITT. CMC's quality assurance
engineers have for many years received training through in-house programs and
by attending seminars, including enrollment in the ITT Quality College.

   CMC has achieved ISO 9001 certification at its Mississippi facility and ISO
9002 certification at its California and Mexico facilities. CMC believes that
the process of attaining ISO certification serves as an excellent tool for
quality improvement, enabling CMC to provide consistency and excellence in its
products and services. Also, since certain potential customers prefer or
require manufacturers to have achieved ISO certification, such certification
may offer certain competitive advantages. CMC believes that compliance with ISO
will allow it to expand its bid opportunities, especially with customers who
participate in world-wide markets.

                                      109
<PAGE>

   In addition to ISO certification, the Mississippi facility has achieved
certification to British Approval Board for Telecommunications. Achieving this
certification broadens CMC's opportunities with telecommunication customers by
providing manufacturing solutions that meet the United Kingdom national
requirements or Common Technical Regulations under Directive 91/263/EEC.

Environmental Controls

   CMC is subject to a variety of regulations concerning environmental laws
related to the use, storage, discharge and disposal of hazardous chemicals
utilized during the manufacturing process and constantly monitors its
operations to avoid violations. Although CMC believes that its facilities are
currently in compliance with applicable environmental laws, there can be no
assurance that violations have not occurred and will not occur. In the event of
any violations of environmental laws, CMC could be held liable for damages and
for the costs of remedial actions and could also be subject to revocation of
its effluent discharge permits. Any such revocation could require CMC to cease
or limit production, thereby having a material adverse impact on CMC's business
and results of operations. To date, environmental regulations have not
restricted CMC's ability to operate or expand its manufacturing operations or
caused CMC to incur significant expense. Environmental laws, however, could
become more stringent over time, imposing greater compliance costs and
increasing risks and penalties associated with a violation. See "--Legal
Proceedings."

Competition

   The electronics manufacturing services industry is highly competitive.
Competitive manufacturing services are available from many independent sources
as well as in-house manufacturing operations of current and potential
customers. In addition, certain large electronics manufacturers are
transforming existing manufacturing facilities into contract manufacturing
operations. CMC also competes with foreign contract manufacturers which, due to
lower cost of labor, have become significant competitors with respect to high
volume products or those with a high labor content.

   CMC believes that its primary competitors are:

  . Solectron Corporation,

  . Avex, Inc.,

  . Flextronics International Ltd.,

  . Jabil Circuit, Inc. and

  . SCI Systems, Inc.

   CMC believes that the primary competitive issues in the markets in which it
focuses are:

  . quality of manufacturing processes,

  . surface mount capacity and total production capacity,

  . responsiveness to customer needs,

  . price,

  . quality,

  . reliable delivery and

  . financial resources.

   CMC believes that it competes favorably with respect to most of these
factors. However, certain of CMC's competitors have greater SMT and total
production capacity and greater financial resources than CMC. In addition,
certain overseas competitors are able to offer low-cost production for certain
types of products, particularly those which require a higher labor content. To
remain competitive, CMC must continue to expand its advanced manufacturing
technologies, provide superior quality and service, and be price competitive.
In addition, CMC's new manufacturing facility in Hermosillo, Mexico is an
effort to expand manufacturing

                                      110
<PAGE>

capacity while reducing costs. If CMC were to become unable to compete
effectively in terms of quality, delivery, advanced manufacturing, service or
price, CMC's business, financial condition and results of operations could be
materially adversely affected.

Backlog

   CMC's backlog was approximately $60.7 million at April 30, 1999 and $42.1
million at July 31, 1998. Backlog consists of purchase orders received by CMC
primarily for shipment within 180 days. Cancellation and postponement of
purchase orders occasionally occur, and CMC negotiates charges to such
customers that vary depending on the timing and circumstances of the
cancellation or postponement. Because of possible rescheduling and
cancellation, backlog does not necessarily reflect future sales levels.

Patents and Trademarks

   CMC owns four patents related to telephone equipment, but does not believe
that patent or trademark protection is an important competitive factor in its
market.

Employees

   At April 30, 1999, CMC had 1,350 full time employees and 54 temporary
employees. At such date, CMC had 1,097 hourly employees and 307 salaried
employees, including 945 in manufacturing, 252 in manufacturing support, 109 in
engineering and quality, 34 in sales and marketing, and 64 in general and
administrative. The only employees of CMC represented by a labor union are
those employees in its Mexico operation, and CMC has never experienced a work
stoppage or strike. CMC believes its relationships with its employees are good.

Properties

   CMC's principal facility is a 350,000 square foot manufacturing plant
located on sixty-four acres in Corinth, Mississippi. The plant and land are
leased at the rate of approximately seven thousand dollars annually, pursuant
to a lease with the Industrial Development Board of Alcorn County, Mississippi,
with options to renew the lease until 2060. CMC also leases a 75,000 square
foot facility in Santa Clara, California, 20,000 square feet of warehouse space
in Corinth, Mississippi, an international purchasing office in Taiwan and a
sales and procurement office in Huntsville, Alabama. CMC owns a 4.4-acre track
of land in Hermosillo, Mexico and a 110,000 square foot manufacturing facility
located thereon. Although there are currently no specific plans for further
expansion, CMC continually evaluates customer needs and market opportunities to
expand its facilities geographically.

Legal Proceedings

   CMC is involved from time to time in litigation incidental to its business.
Management believes that the outcome of current litigation will not have a
material adverse effect upon the results of operations or financial condition
of CMC and will not disrupt the normal operations of CMC.

   In December 1993, CMC retained the services of an industrial safety
consultant to assist in quantifying the potential exposure to CMC in connection
with clean-up and related costs of a former manufacturing site, commonly known
as the ITT Telecommunications site in Milan, Tennessee and more particularly
described as a 50.1 acre tract surveyed by Construction Layout Service of
Milan, Tennessee. The consultant initially estimated that the cost to remove
the contaminated soil and deliver it to an appropriate hazardous waste site
would be approximately $200,000. Based upon this advice, CMC subsequently
entered into a voluntary agreement to investigate the site with the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation. In addition, CMC agreed to
reimburse a tenant of the site $115,000 for expenditures previously incurred to
investigate environmental conditions at the site. CMC recorded a total
provision of $320,000 based on these estimates. In fiscal 1995, an
environmental expert concluded that the cost of a full study combined with
short and long-term

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<PAGE>

remediation of the site may cost between $3 and $4 million. During fiscal 1996,
the State of Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation named
certain potentially responsible parties ("PRP's") in relation to the former
facility. CMC was not named as a PRP. However, Alcatel, Inc., a PRP named by
the State of Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conversation and a
former owner of CMC, is seeking indemnification from CMC. To date, Alcatel has
not filed any legal proceedings to enforce its indemnification claim. However,
there can be no assurance that Alcatel will not initiate such proceedings or
that any other third parties will not assert claims against CMC relating to
remediation of the site. In the event any such proceedings are initiated or any
such claim is made, CMC believes it has numerous defenses which it will
vigorously assert. There can be no assurance that if any proceedings are
initiated or any such claim is asserted, defense or resolution of such matter
will not have a material adverse effect on CMC's financial position or results
of operations.

   In connection with a fiscal 1996 staff reduction, certain terminated
employees subsequently claimed that CMC had engaged in age discrimination in
their dismissal and sought damages of varying amounts. CMC defended the actual
and threatened claims vigorously during fiscal 1998 incurring approximately
$275,000 in legal costs over the course of the year. On August 6, 1998, a
judgment was rendered in the favor of one plaintiff, in the amount of $127,000
which CMC subsequently settled for $112,000. A second plaintiff's claim for
$53,000 was filed and subsequently settled for $48,500. The EEOC has negotiated
with CMC to reach a monetary settlement for other potential claimants. Without
admitting any liability, CMC entered into a Conciliation Agreement with the
EEOC and agreed to pay approximately $500,000 to settle all such claims and
limit future litigation costs. As a result of these events and the significant
ongoing costs to defend these claims, in October 1998, CMC concluded that its
interest would be best served to settle all such matters. CMC reserved $975,000
to resolve all such claims, which represented its best estimate of funds to
ultimately be paid to such claimants. This charge was recorded in the fiscal
year ended July 31, 1998.

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<PAGE>

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

General

   CMC Industries, Inc. was incorporated in 1990 to acquire certain businesses
operated from CMC's Corinth, Mississippi manufacturing facility since 1960. In
August 1993, CMC transferred certain assets and related liabilities associated
with its telephone business to Cortelco Systems Holding Corp., an affiliate
through common ownership, in exchange for 1,000,000 shares of redeemable
preferred stock of Cortelco. This restructuring allowed CMC to focus on
contract manufacturing services while Cortelco pursued the development and
distribution of telephones and telecommunications products.

   CMC offers contract manufacturing services to its customers on both a
turnkey and consignment basis, with over 90% of CMC's net sales in fiscal 1998
derived from turnkey projects. On turnkey contracts, CMC both procures the
components and other supplies and provides full manufacturing services. On
consignment contracts, the customer provides the components and other supplies
to CMC, and CMC charges only for labor and overhead; thus, sales volumes per
assembly are generally lower and the gross margins are generally higher on
consignment contracts since CMC does not procure materials for the assembly.

   Set forth below are analyses of CMC's results of operations for the fiscal
years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 and the quarter and nine months ended
April 30, 1999.

Results of Operations for the Quarter and Nine Months Ended April 30, 1999
Versus Results of Operations for the Quarter and Nine Months Ended April 30,
1998

   Sales for the third quarter of fiscal year 1999 were $58.7 million as
compared to $58.6 million for the corresponding quarter of the prior year.
Sales for the first nine months of fiscal 1999 were $207.0 million, a 13%
decrease from sales of $237.6 million for the same period of the prior year.
Sales to customers other than Micron Electronics, Inc., with which business was
discontinued at the end of the second quarter of fiscal 1998, increased during
the first nine months of fiscal 1999 by $40.8 million, to $207.0 million from
$166.2 million, when compared to the corresponding period of the prior year.
For further information on the termination of the Micron business, refer to
CMC's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 31, 1998.

   Sales to three customers new to CMC in fiscal 1999, Next Level
Communications, Telular Corporation and Proxim, Inc., were $1.7 million, $1.8
million and $1.3 million, respectively, for the third quarter of fiscal 1999
and $16.2 million, $2.9 million and $1.5 million, respectively, for the first
nine months of fiscal 1999. Sales to Diamond Multimedia Systems, Inc. increased
during the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 1999 when compared to
the same periods of fiscal 1998 by $6.2 million and $47.6 million,
respectively, due to both an increase in shipments and the conversion of the
business from consignment to turnkey. Sales to new customers and the increase
in sales to Diamond were partially offset by the loss of business with Global
Village Communications following the sale of its modem business to Boca
Research, Inc. in June 1998. Sales to Global Village were $6.1 million and
$26.9 million in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 1998,
respectively, but sales to Boca have been minimal in fiscal 1999.

   Gross profit for the third quarter of fiscal 1999 was $2.3 million or 3.9%
of sales, as compared to $4.0 million or 6.8% of sales for the third quarter of
fiscal 1998. Gross profit for the first nine months of fiscal 1999 was $6.5
million or 3.1% of net sales, as compared to $15.0 million or 6.3% for the same
period of the prior fiscal year. Gross profit as a percentage of sales
decreased in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 1999 when
compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year principally as a
result of increases in manufacturing overhead costs incurred in anticipation of
higher sales volumes and costs associated with the initiation of new
manufacturing projects. There can be no assurance that any anticipated increase
in sales will occur or that sales will not decrease in future periods.

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<PAGE>

   Selling, general and administrative expenses were $2.9 million or 5.0% of
sales in the third quarter of fiscal 1999, as compared to $2.7 million or 4.7%
of sales in the third quarter of fiscal 1998. These expenses were $9.4 million
or 4.5% of sales in the first nine months of fiscal 1999, as compared to $9.0
million or 3.8% of sales for the corresponding period of the prior year.
Selling, general and administrative expenses were higher on an absolute basis
in the fiscal 1999 periods than in the corresponding periods of fiscal 1998
primarily due to an increase in CMC's sales force and related expenses. These
expenses as a percentage of sales also increased in the first nine months of
fiscal 1999 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior year due to
the lower sales levels.

   Interest expense for the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal year
1999 was $401,000 and $1,114,000, respectively, as compared to $311,000 and
$1,063,000 for the corresponding periods of fiscal 1998. Interest expense
increased in the third quarter and first nine months of fiscal 1999 when
compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year primarily due to
an increase in average debt balances associated with the funding of CMC's
expansion of capacity in Mexico. The effect of the higher interest expense in
the fiscal 1999 periods was partially offset by the recognition in CMC's third
fiscal quarter of $121,000 of interest income on a note receivable from
Cortelco.

   CMC's effective income tax rate was approximately 38% throughout the first
nine months of both fiscal years 1999 and 1998. The effective income tax rate
approximates the blended state and federal statutory rates in the United States
and Mexico.

Results of Operations for the Year Ended July 31, 1998 Versus the Year Ended
July 31, 1997

   Total net sales for fiscal 1998 were $302.0 million, up 41% from $214.5
million for fiscal 1997. Approximately $174.0 million, or 58% of CMC's sales in
fiscal 1998 were to customers from the communications (telecommunications and
data networking), industry as compared to $143.1 million, or 67%, in fiscal
1997.

   As previously announced, CMC's manufacturing relationship with Micron
Electronics, Inc., CMC's largest customer from the computer industry in both
fiscal 1998 and fiscal 1997, was discontinued at the end of the second quarter
of fiscal 1998. Sales to Micron were $71.4 million and $45.4 million in fiscal
1998 and 1997, respectively. When compared to the prior fiscal year, sales to
customers other than Micron increased by 36%, to $230.6 million from $169.1
million. This increase was accomplished with sales to new customers and
increased sales to certain existing customers. CMC initiated business in fiscal
1998 with Midway Games, Inc., formerly known as Williams Electronics, and
Premisys Communications, Inc. and began shipments late in the third quarter of
fiscal 1998 under a new turnkey contract with Diamond Multimedia Systems, Inc.,
an existing customer previously served only on a consignment basis. CMC is
currently recognizing revenues from Diamond at an annualized rate of
approximately $50 million, which is less than originally expected. CMC also
began shipments in the first quarter of fiscal 1999 under a recently awarded
full turnkey contract with Next Level Communications.

   Gross profit for fiscal 1998 was $18.1 million or 6.0% of net sales, as
compared to $13.4 million or 6.2% of net sales for fiscal 1997. The decrease in
gross profit as a percentage of sales in fiscal 1998 when compared to the prior
fiscal year was principally due to a change in product mix, with the costs of
materials as a percentage of total costs of goods sold increasing in the
current fiscal year when compared to the prior fiscal year. Since the markup on
the costs of materials is typically less than the markup on the costs of
conversion, including labor and overhead, gross profit as a percentage of sales
usually declines as the materials portion of total costs increases. Gross
profit was also adversely affected in fiscal 1997 by the effect of a $989,000
write-off of certain inventory balances.

   Selling, general and administrative expenses were $12.7 million or 4.2% of
net sales in fiscal 1998, as compared to $9.5 million or 4.4% of net sales for
fiscal 1997. Included in the fiscal 1998 expenses were $1.3 million of costs
for defense and settlement of certain claims of age discrimination resulting
from a September

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<PAGE>

1995 reduction in force. Without admitting any liability, CMC has agreed to
enter into a Conciliation Agreement with the EEOC to settle claims related to
this matter and limit future litigation costs. Although other selling, general
and administrative expenses decreased as a percentage of net sales, such
expenses increased in absolute dollars in fiscal 1998 primarily due to
additions to CMC's sales force and management team, expenses incurred to expand
and upgrade information systems and an increase in selling expenses directly
associated with the higher sales levels.

   Net interest expense for both fiscal 1997 and fiscal 1998 was approximately
$1.4 million. Most of CMC's debt bears interest at variable rates which were
lower, on average, in fiscal 1998 than in fiscal 1997; however, the impact of
the reduced rates was substantially offset by higher average debt balances in
fiscal 1998 compared to fiscal 1997.

   CMC's effective tax rate was approximately 37.4% for fiscal year 1998 and
38.2% for fiscal year 1997. The effective income tax rates approximate the
blended U.S. and state statutory rates.

Results of Operations for the Year Ended July 31, 1997 Versus the Year Ended
July 31, 1996

   Total net sales for fiscal 1997 were $214.5 million, up 30% from $164.7
million for fiscal 1996. Sales to Micron, a new box build customer serving the
computer market, accounted for $45.4 million, or 21% of the Company's revenues
in fiscal 1997. CMC initiated business with Micron in the second quarter of
fiscal 1997. Approximately $143.1 million, or 67% of CMC's sales in fiscal 1997
were to customers from the communications (telecommunications and data
networking) industry as compared to $107.8 million, or 66% in fiscal 1996.
Revenue growth in the communications segment was accomplished in fiscal 1997
with sales to new customers and increased sales to certain existing customers.

   Gross profit for fiscal 1997 was $13.4 million or 6.2% of net sales, as
compared to $10.8 million or 6.5% of net sales for fiscal 1996. The decrease in
gross profit as a percentage of sales on a year-to-year basis was partially due
to a pre-tax charge of $989,000 taken by CMC in the fourth quarter of fiscal
1997 to write off remaining inventory balances relating to certain customers.
CMC's gross margins were also adversely impacted throughout the second half of
fiscal 1997 by the decline of certain high margin consignment business and
costs associated with the commencement of new turnkey business.

   Selling, general and administrative expenses were $9.5 million or 4.4% of
net sales in fiscal 1997, as compared to $9.0 million (including $792,000 in
non-recurring restructuring charges) or 5.5% of net sales for fiscal 1996.
Although selling, general and administrative expenses decreased as a percentage
of net sales, such expenses increased in absolute dollars in fiscal 1997
primarily due to additions to CMC's sales force, increases in expenses incurred
to expand and upgrade information systems and an increase in selling expenses
directly associated with the higher sales levels.

   Net interest expense for fiscal 1997 was $1.4 million as compared to $1.5
million for fiscal 1996. The decrease in fiscal 1997 compared to fiscal 1996
was primarily due to lower average debt balances.

   CMC's effective tax rate for fiscal 1997 was approximately 38.2% as compared
to 47.5% for fiscal 1996. The fluctuation from year to year resulted from the
relationship between the amortization of goodwill and pre-tax income. Goodwill
amortization is treated as an expense for financial purposes but is not
deductible for tax purposes.

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<PAGE>

Quarterly Results

   The following table contains selected unaudited consolidated financial
results for each of the last eight fiscal quarters.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Quarter Ended
                          ------------------------------------------------------------------
                           July      Oct     Jan    April   July      Oct      Jan    April
                           1997     1997    1998    1998    1998     1998     1999    1999
                          -------  ------- ------- ------- -------  -------  ------- -------
                                                  (In Thousands)
<S>                       <C>      <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
Net sales...............  $61,843  $90,626 $88,431 $58,565 $64,333  $73,739  $74,575 $58,677
Gross profit............    2,289    5,558   5,505   3,969   3,095      615    3,566   2,272
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............    2,849    3,099   3,182   2,731   3,685    3,370    3,077   2,907
Operating income (loss).     (560)   2,459   2,323   1,238    (590)  (2,755)     489    (635)
Interest expense, net...      359      395     357     311     321      415      419     280
Net income (loss).......     (580)   1,290   1,229     580    (568)  (1,981)      44    (572)

</TABLE>

                            AS A PERCENTAGE OF SALES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Quarter Ended
                          ------------------------------------------------------
                          July    Oct    Jan   April  July    Oct    Jan   April
                          1997   1997   1998   1998   1998   1998   1999   1999
                          -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----  -----
<S>                       <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>    <C>
Net sales...............  100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Gross profit............    3.7    6.1    6.2    6.8    4.8    0.8    4.8    3.9
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............    4.6    3.4    3.6    4.7    5.7    4.6    4.1    5.0
Operating income (loss).   (0.9)   2.7    2.6    2.1   (0.9)  (3.7)   0.7   (1.1)
Interest expense, net...    0.6    0.4    0.4    0.5    0.5    0.6    0.6    0.5
Net income (loss).......   (0.9)   1.4    1.4    1.0   (0.9)  (2.7)   0.1   (1.0)
</TABLE>

   CMC's quarterly operating results have fluctuated due to a number of
factors, including the mix of manufacturing projects, capacity utilization,
price competition, the timing of orders from major customers, the timing of
expenditures in anticipation of increased sales, customer product delivery
requirements, costs associated with the commencement of new turnkey or
consignment manufacturing projects, increased cost and shortages of turnkey
manufacturing components or qualified labor, and economic conditions generally
and within the telecommunications, data networking and computer industries.
CMC's gross margin was adversely impacted in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1997
by a pre-tax charge of $989,000 taken by CMC to write off remaining inventory
balances relating to certain customers.

   CMC's operating income was adversely impacted in the fourth quarter of 1998
by a pre-tax charge of $975,000 to settle certain claims of age discrimination
resulting from a September 1995 reduction in force. This charge was in addition
to approximately $300,000 of legal costs incurred during the year to defend
CMC's position. Without admitting any liability, CMC entered into a
Conciliation Agreement with the EEOC to settle claims related to this matter
and limit future litigation costs.

   During the first and second quarters of fiscal 1998, CMC experienced an
increase in sales to Micron and certain other products for which demand would
typically increase during the holiday buying season. The manufacturing
relationship with Micron has been discontinued and there can be no assurance,
with respect to other products and services provided by CMC, that any seasonal
trend resulting in revenues and operating profit being the highest in the first
two quarters of the fiscal year will continue in future fiscal years, or that
if it does continue, it will not be offset by a decrease in sales and operating
profits of other products.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

   Effective January 31, 1999, CMC entered into a new bank loan agreement
comprised of a revolving credit line of $30 million and a $5 million term loan.
At April 30, 1999, total borrowings under this facility were $9.9 million under
the revolving credit line and $4.8 million under the term loan. The loan
agreement contains

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<PAGE>

financial covenants related to CMC's net worth and debt service coverage and
restricts capital expenditures. At April 30, 1999, CMC was in default under the
net worth and debt service covenants and has requested a waiver from the bank
with respect to such covenants.

   CMC leases its U.S. manufacturing facilities and certain equipment using
both capital and operating lease arrangements. At April 30, 1999, future
minimum lease payments under the non-cancelable portion of lease agreements
were $17.6 million, of which $7.2 million is scheduled for payment in the next
twelve months.

   CMC's cash and cash equivalents decreased by $21,000 to $5,260,000 during
the nine months ended April 30, 1999. During this period, CMC's operations
provided cash of $8.6 million resulting from the netting of a $9.9 million
increase in accounts payable, a net profit before depreciation and amortization
of $94,000, a $10.6 million increase in inventories, an $11.4 million decrease
in accounts receivable, a $2.1 million decrease in accrued liabilities and a
$104,000 change in other assets and liabilities.

   CMC used cash of $1.9 million in investing activities during the nine months
ended April 30, 1999, including $535,000 for payments on the Hermosillo, Mexico
facilities. Cash expended in other investing activities was principally to
improve leaseholds and to acquire manufacturing equipment.

   Cash used in financing activities in the nine months ended April 30, 1999
totaled $6.7 million on a net basis. Cash provided included $2.1 million of
long-term debt and $676,000 from the issuance of approximately 169,482 shares
of CMC's common stock under CMC's stock option and employee stock purchase
plans. Cash used included $8.2 million to reduce outstanding borrowings under
CMC's revolving credit line and $1.3 million to repay long-term debt and
capital lease obligations.

   CMC's needs for financing in the next twelve months may include increases in
working capital to support sales growth, if any, and expansion of capacity,
including plant and equipment. During fiscal 1998, CMC purchased a 4.4-acre
tract of land in Hermosillo, Mexico and a 110,000 square foot manufacturing
plant located at this site. The final payment of approximately $100,000 for
this facility is expected to be made in the fourth quarter of fiscal 1999 using
cash on hand and funds available under CMC's lines of credit, although there
can be no assurance of this. CMC expects to meet its other short-term liquidity
requirements generally through net cash provided by operations, vendor credit
terms, operating lease arrangements and short-term borrowings under its lines
of credit.

   CMC from time to time evaluates possible business acquisitions, facility
additions and expansion of capabilities. CMC may seek additional financing as
needed to pursue growth opportunities, including any expansion of capacity;
however, there can be no assurance that such financing will be available on
terms acceptable to CMC, if at all.

Impact of the Year 2000

   The Year 2000 issue is the result of computer programs being written using
two digits rather than four to define the applicable year. Any manufacturing
equipment, computer programs or computer hardware used by CMC that have date-
sensitive software or embedded chips may recognize a date using "00" as the
year 1900 rather than the year 2000. This could result in a system failure or
miscalculations causing disruptions of operations, including, among other
things, a temporary inability to operate equipment, process transactions, send
invoices, or engage in similar normal business activities.

   CMC determined in its initial assessment that only insignificant portions of
hardware and software required modification or replacement so that those
systems would properly utilize dates beyond December 31, 1999. CMC presently
believes that due to completion of minor modifications to existing hardware and
software, the Year 2000 Issue has been substantially mitigated, although there
can be no assurance of this.

   CMC's plan to resolve the Year 2000 Issue involved four phases; assessment,
remediation, testing and implementation. CMC believes that it has completed its
assessment of all material systems that could be affected by the Year 2000
Issue. The completed assessment indicated that most of CMC's significant

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information technology systems and software and hardware used in manufacturing
equipment (hereafter also referred to as operating equipment) would not be
materially affected, although there can be no assurance of this. Further, CMC
does not conduct a significant portion of its vendor purchase transactions
through systems that interface directly with suppliers.

   For its information technology exposures, CMC believes that it has completed
the remediation phase and all software reprogramming and replacement for all
material systems. To date, CMC believes that it has completed its testing and
has implemented all of its remediated systems. However, there can be no
assurance that such implementation has resolved all related Year 2000 issues.

   For its operating equipment exposures, CMC believes that it has completed
the remediation phase of the resolution process, although there can be no
assurance of this. Testing of this equipment was more difficult than its
information technology systems but CMC believes that it has completed its
testing and implementation of affected equipment; however, there can be no
assurance that such implementation has resolved all Year 2000 issues.

   With respect to third parties, CMC currently has no material systems that
interface directly with significant vendors. CMC has queried its important
suppliers regarding Year 2000 readiness but to date is not aware of any
problems that would materially impact results of operations, liquidity or
capital resources. However, CMC has no means of ensuring that these third
parties will be Year 2000 ready and any inability of those parties to complete
their year 2000 resolution process could materially impact CMC.

   For the above identified issues, CMC is developing manual process procedures
as a contingency plan.

   CMC has primarily utilized internal resources to reprogram, to replace, test
and implement, as needed, the software and operating equipment for Year 2000
modifications. To date, the total cost of the Year 2000 project has not
materially affected CMC's business or results of operations. However, there can
be no guarantee that unexpected events will not occur and actual results could
be materially adversely affected. Specific factors that might cause such
material adverse effects include, but are not limited to, the availability and
cost of personnel trained in this area, the ability to locate and correct all
relevant computer codes and similar uncertainties.

Effect of Recent Accounting Pronouncements

   The Accounting Standards Executive Committee has issued Statement of
Position 98-5, Reporting on the Costs of Start-up Activities, effective for
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1998 (fiscal 2000 for CMC). SOP 98-5
requires the costs of start-up activities and organization costs to be expensed
as incurred. In fiscal 1998, CMC capitalized $1.2 million of start-up costs
incurred to begin manufacturing operations in Hermosillo, Mexico. CMC plans to
amortize 20% or $240,000, in fiscal 1999 and expense the balance of $960,000 in
fiscal 2000 upon adoption of SOP 98-5.

   In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive
Income" (SFAS 130). SFAS 130 establishes standards for reporting comprehensive
income and its components in financial statements. Comprehensive income, as
defined, includes all changes in equity (net assets) during a period from non-
owner sources. SFAS 130 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December
15, 1997. The adoption of SFAS 130 is not expected to have a material impact on
CMC's results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

   In June 1997, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information"
(SFAS 131), which establishes standards for reporting information about
operating segments in annual financial statements. It also establishes
standards for related disclosures about products and services, geographic areas
and major customers. SFAS 131 is effective for fiscal years beginning after
December 15, 1997. The adoption of SFAS 131 is not expected to have a material
impact on CMC's results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

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<PAGE>

   In June 1998, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 133, "Accounting for Derivatives and Hedging Activities" (SFAS 133). SFAS
133 is effective for all fiscal quarters beginning with the quarter ending June
30, 2000. SFAS 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards of derivative
financial instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in
other contracts, and for hedging activities. The adoption of SFAS 133 is not
expected to have an impact on CMC's results of operations, financial position
or cash flows.

         CMC QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

   CMC is exposed to changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange
primarily in its cash, debt and foreign currency transactions. CMC does not
hold derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

   CMC has a $35.0 million Credit Facility which bears interest at a variable
interest rate. CMC's exposure related to adverse movements in interest rates is
primarily derived from the variable rate on CMC's Credit Facility. As of April
30, 1999, $14.7 million was outstanding under the Credit Facility at a rate of
approximately 8%. Based on this balance, an adverse change of one percent in
the interest rate would cause a change in interest expense of approximately
$150,000 on an annual basis.

   The foreign currency to which CMC has exchange rate exposure is the Mexican
peso. International operations do not currently constitute a significant
portion of the revenues of CMC. Therefore this exposure is not considered
material to CMC at this time.

   Based on a hypothetical ten percent adverse movement in interest rates and
foreign currency exchange rates, the potential losses in future earnings, fair
value of the risk-sensitive financial instruments and cash flows are
immaterial. However, the actual effects of interest rates and foreign currency
exchange rates may differ materially from the hypothetical analysis.

                            CMC CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS

   CMC has had numerous transactions with its former affiliate and customer,
Cortelco Systems Holding Corp., including the transfer of certain assets and
related liabilities associated with the telephone business to Cortelco in
exchange for 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock of Cortelco in August 1993,
the execution of an agreement to provide certain products and related support
services to customers of Cortelco and a working capital loan which was paid in
full in August 1993. In addition, Mr. Lee, a director of CMC, is also a
director of Cortelco. Mr. Lee is the largest stockholder of each of CMC and
Cortelco.

   In March 1999, CMC consented to a restructuring of certain assets of
Cortelco. In connection with this restructuring, Cortelco distributed common
stock of Cortelco Systems, Inc. to its stockholders on a pro rata basis.
Pursuant to this distribution, CMC and Cortelco entered into a Stock
Distribution Agreement and CMC received its pro rata share which was equal to
6,125,302 shares of common stock of Cortelco Systems, Inc. CMC also entered
into a Stock Purchase Agreement with Mr. Lee under which, through a series of
"put" and "call" rights, Mr. Lee effectively guarantees CMC's right to receive
not less than approximately $5.9 million in respect of the common stock of
Cortelco Systems, Inc. and the preferred stock of Cortelco by May 2002. In
consideration for the receipt of Mr. Lee's guarantee, CMC consented to an
amendment to Cortelco's Certificate of Incorporation which, among other things,
delays the dates on which the preferred stock may be tendered for redemption by
CMC.

   Furthermore, Cortelco's wholly-owned subsidiary, Cortelco Puerto Rico,
merged into Cortelco Systems, Inc. in connection with the above mentioned
distribution. Cortelco Systems, Inc. merged with BCS Technologies, Inc. with
Cortelco Systems, Inc. being the surviving entity. Finally, Cortelco Systems,
Inc. filed a Form S-1 in April 1999 and currently intends to complete an
initial public offering later this year. CMC intends to be a selling
shareholder of shares of common stock in Cortelco Systems, Inc.'s initial
public offering. We cannot assure you that such sale will occur or what the
proceeds will be from such sales if any.

                                      119
<PAGE>

   In July 1998, CMC converted certain older accounts receivable from Cortelco
totaling $2.0 million into a note receivable. Under the terms of the note,
Cortelco agrees to pay the balance over a three-year term with monthly payments
of $50,000 plus interest and a final installment of $200,000 due at the end of
the three-year period. Interest accrues on the note at a rate of 9.0% per
annum. As of April 30, 1999, Cortelco had made all payments required at that
date under the terms of the note. CMC continues to provide credit for
manufacturing services sold to Cortelco in the form of trade receivables, and
as of April 30, 1999, had approximately $4.1 million in trade receivables from
Cortelco. Cortelco's payments on its trade accounts with CMC have in the past
been late, and there can be no assurances that such payments or payments on the
note will in the future be made on a timely basis, if at all.

   During fiscal 1997, CMC executed an agreement and subsequently acquired
42,500 shares of CMC's common stock in exchange for a $441,000 receivable due
from DTC Data Technology Corporation, a company of which Mr. Lee is President,
Chairman of the Board and has an ownership interest. The shares were acquired
from a company affiliated through common ownership to DTC. The number of shares
was based on the fair market value of the stock at the time of the transaction.

   CMC has, and expects to have, transactions in the ordinary course of its
business with directors and officers of CMC and their affiliates, including
members of their families or corporations, partnerships or other organizations
in which such officers or directors have a controlling interest, on
substantially the same terms (including price, or interest rates and
collateral) as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with
unrelated parties.

                                      120
<PAGE>

                   CMC MANAGEMENT AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

   The following table sets forth certain information regarding the directors
and executive officers of CMC and its subsidiaries.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              Position(s)                  Director
             Name         Age                  with CMC                     Since
             ----         ---                 ----------                   --------
      <C>                 <C> <S>                                          <C>
      Directors:

      David S. Lee        61  Chairman of the Board                          1990

      Matthew G. Landa    34  President and Chief Executive Officer          1995

      Andrew J. Moley     34  Executive Vice President and Chief             1995
                              Financial Officer

      Ira Coron           69  Director                                       1996

      Frederick W. Gibbs  66  Director                                       1993

      Charles Holloway    62  Director                                       1996

      Richard M. Moley    59  Director                                       1998

      M. Kenneth Oshman   58  Director                                       1998

      Executive Officers:

      Karl Chang          43  Vice President, President Asian Operations

      Lanny N. Lambert    49  Vice President and Secretary

      Jack O'Rear         57  Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
</TABLE>

   Set forth below is certain additional biographical information concerning
the directors and executive officers of CMC:

   David S. Lee. Mr. Lee organized CMC in July 1990 and served as its Chairman
until 1993. He assumed the positions of Chairman of the Board, Acting President
and Chief Executive Officer from May 1995 until November 1995 and continues to
hold the position of Chairman of the Board. Mr. Lee is the Chairman of Cortelco
Systems Holding Corp., a telecommunications company and serves as a director of
Award Software International, Centigram Communications Corporation, DTC Data
Technology Corporation and of Linear Technology Corporation. From 1983 to 1985,
he served as a Vice President of ITT Corporation and as Group Executive and
Chairman of its Business Information Systems Group.

   Matthew G. Landa. Mr. Landa has served as a director since November 1995 and
as President and Chief Executive Officer since October 1995. From 1991 to 1994,
Mr. Landa served as Chief Operating Officer and a member of the Board of
Directors of Silicon Valley Technology, an electronics manufacturing services
firm. From 1986 to 1989, Mr. Landa worked as a consultant at Monitor Company, a
strategic management consulting firm and in 1990 as an associate at Morgan
Stanley and Co., an investment bank.

   Andrew J. Moley. Mr. Moley has served as a director since November 1995. Mr.
Moley also served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer from
October 1995 to August 1996 and currently serves as Executive Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer of CMC. From 1993 to 1994, Mr. Moley served as
Chief Financial Officer of Silicon Valley Technology, an electronics
manufacturing services firm. From 1991 to 1993, Mr. Moley worked as a strategic
consultant with Mercer Management Consulting and from 1986 to 1989, as the
Chief Financial Officer of the Jim Waters Corp., a wholesale building supplies
company.

   Ira Coron. Mr. Coron has served as a director since September 1996. Since
March 1994, Mr. Coron has served as Chairman of the Board of California
Amplifier, Inc., a communications equipment manufacturing company. From 1994 to
1997, Mr. Coron also served as Chief Executive Officer of California Amplifier,
Inc.

                                      121
<PAGE>

From 1989 to 1994, Mr. Coron was an independent management consultant to
several companies and venture capital firms. Mr. Coron retired from TRW, Inc.
after serving in numerous senior management positions from June 1967 to July
1989, including Vice President and General Manager of TRW's Electronic
Components Group. He is also a director of Made2manage Systems, Inc. and serves
on the Board of Directors of the Wireless Cable Association.

   Frederick W. Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs has served as a director since September 1993.
Mr. Gibbs is an attorney and partner with Gibbs and Gregory, Attorneys at Law.
From 1986 to 1988, Mr. Gibbs served as a consultant with ITT. In 1988, Mr.
Gibbs founded Mulberry Hill Enterprises, a consulting firm which specializes in
telecommunications and electronics, business acquisition analysis and
international business. From 1980 to 1986, Mr. Gibbs served as Executive Vice
President of ITT and Senior Group Executive of Telecommunications and
Electronics, a division of ITT. From 1965 to 1980, Mr. Gibbs served in various
management positions with ITT.

   Charles Holloway. Professor Holloway has served as a director since August
1996. Professor Holloway has been affiliated with Stanford University since
1968. Professor Holloway is the holder of the Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield &
Byers Professorship in Management at the Stanford University Graduate School of
Business. Professor Holloway serves as a board member and a consultant with a
range of technology firms, and has authored numerous books and articles on the
subjects of manufacturing and management.

   Richard M. Moley. Mr. Moley has served as a director since January 1998. Mr.
Moley is presently a private investor. From 1996 to 1998, Mr. Moley served as
Senior Vice President and Director of Cisco Systems, Inc. Mr. Moley served as
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Stratacom, Inc. from its
inception in 1988 until its acquisition by Cisco in July 1996. Mr. Moley
currently serves on the Board of Directors of Linear Technology, Cidco, Echelon
and several private companies.

   M. Kenneth Oshman. Mr. Oshman has served as a director since January 1998.
Mr. Oshman is President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Echelon
Corporation, a company that creates and provides technology and products for
the control network industry. Mr. Oshman, with three associates, founded ROLM
Corporation, a telecommunications equipment company, in 1969. He was Chief
Executive Officer, President, and a director at ROLM from its founding until
its merger with IBM in 1984. Following the merger, he became a Vice President
of IBM and remained in that position until 1986. Mr. Oshman serves as a
director of Sun Microsystems, Knight-Ridder, Inc. and Snap/Track, Inc. Mr.
Oshman earned his B.A. and B.S. degrees from Rice University and M.S. and Ph.D
degrees in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. He has served as
Chairman of the Board of the Stanford Alumni Association, Chairman of the
American Electronics Association, the Santa Clara County Manufacturing Group
and the Community Foundation of Silicon Valley.

   Karl Chang. Mr. Chang has served as President of CMC's Asian operations
since September 1997. Mr. Chang joined CMC as Vice President and President--
California Operations in January 1993 when CMC acquired Topaz Industries, Inc.
Mr. Chang served as President of Topaz Industries, Inc. beginning in 1990.
Prior to 1990, Mr. Chang held various manufacturing and engineering positions
with Vantronic Corporation, Sun Microsystems, Solectron Corporation, Hewlett-
Packard Company and AT&T.

   Lanny N. Lambert. Mr. Lambert has been Vice President of CMC since July 1990
and Secretary since June 1993. Mr. Lambert also served as Chief Financial
Officer from July 1990 to October 1995. Mr. Lambert joined ITT in 1983 and held
various positions in the financial department in the Corinth facility,
including Manager of Financial Analysis and Plant Controller. Mr. Lambert was
elected Vice President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer
of Corinth Telecommunication Corp., a subsidiary of Alcatel n.v., in 1989. Mr.
Lambert also served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cortelco
until August 1993.

   Jack O'Rear. Mr. O'Rear has been Chief Operating Officer of CMC since August
1996 and Vice President since August 1994. Mr. O'Rear became President of the
Mississippi Operations in November 1994. From 1989 until joining CMC, Mr.
O'Rear served as Vice President of North American Operations for AVEC
Electronics, an electronics manufacturing services company.

                                      122
<PAGE>

The Board of Directors and its Committees

   During the last fiscal year, the Board of Directors held a total of five
meetings. No director attended fewer than 75% of the meetings of the Board of
Directors or committees of the Board of Directors held during fiscal 1998
during the period which such directors were members of the Board of Directors.
Directors not otherwise employed by the Company received $2,000 per quarter and
$500 for each meeting attended. The Company also reimbursed such directors for
the expenses incurred in attending meetings.

   The Board of Directors has a Compensation Committee and an Audit Committee.
The Board of Directors does not have a nominating committee or any committee
performing similar functions. Members of the Compensation Committee during
fiscal 1998 were Messrs. Lee, Gibbs, Coron and Oshman. The Compensation
Committee is primarily responsible for reviewing and administering CMC's
employee benefit plans. The Compensation Committee held one meeting during
fiscal 1998. During fiscal 1998, the Audit Committee consisted of Messrs.
Holloway, Gibbs and R. Moley. The Audit Committee is primarily responsible for
engaging CMC's independent accountants and supervising matters relating to
audit functions, reviewing audit results with the auditors, and reviewing the
scope and results of CMC's internal auditing procedures and the adequacy of the
internal accounting controls. The Audit Committee held one meeting during
fiscal 1998.

Executive Compensation

   The following table shows the aggregate cash compensation paid during the
three years ended July 31, 1998 to the Chief Executive Officer and the named
executive officers of CMC, who each received cash compensation in excess of
$100,000 in fiscal 1998.

                           Summary Compensation Table

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Long-term
                                   Annual Compensation              Compensation ($)
                             -------------------------------------- ----------------
                              Salary     Bonus       Other Annual
Name and Position       Year   ($)        ($)      Compensation ($)   Options (#)
- -----------------       ---- --------    ------    ---------------- ----------------
<S>                     <C>  <C>         <C>       <C>              <C>
Matthew G. Landa....... 1998 $229,243    60,000(1)     $   119(2)        60,000
 President and Chief
  Executive             1997  195,481       -0-            119(2)        41,667
 Officer                1996  125,693(3)    -0-         20,000(4)       150,000

Andrew J. Moley........ 1998  206,880    50,000(1)         119(5)        60,000
 Executive Vice
  President and Chief   1997  179,712       -0-            119(5)        41,667
 Financial Officer      1996  125,693(6)    -0-         20,000(7)       150,000

Jack O'Rear............ 1998  202,138    40,000(1)       6,612(8)        40,000
 Vice President and
  Chief Operating       1997  182,079    16,000(1)       8,233(8)        15,000
 Officer                1996  175,011       -0-          5,604(8)         5,000

Karl Chang............. 1998  117,700     5,000(1)       7,280(9)           -0-
 Vice President,
  President--Asian      1997  117,700       -0-            -0-           10,000
 Operations             1996  107,000       -0-            -0-            5,000

Lanny N. Lambert....... 1998  117,000    15,000(1)       5,561(10)       25,000
 Vice President and
  Secretary             1997  105,279     8,000(1)       5,530(10)        6,000
                        1996  101,192       -0-            -0-            1,500
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Includes bonus earned in prior fiscal year

(2) Includes life insurance premiums paid on behalf of Mr. Landa

(3) Mr. Landa joined CMC in October 1995

(4) Includes consultant fees paid to Mr. Landa prior to his employment by CMC

(5) Includes life insurance premiums paid on behalf of Mr. Moley

                                      123
<PAGE>

(6) Mr. Moley joined CMC in October 1995

(7) Includes consultant fees paid to Mr. Moley prior to his employment by CMC

(8) Includes automobile expense allowance, life insurance premiums and personal
    airfare for Mr. O'Rear

(9) Includes automobile expense allowance and insurance premiums for Mr. Chang

(10) Includes automobile expense allowance and insurance premiums for Mr.
     Lambert

                          Option Grants in Fiscal 1998

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              Potential Realizable Value at
                                                                              Assumed Annual Rate of Stock
                                     Percent of Total                              Price Appreciation
                                     Options Granted  Exercise or                    For Option Term
                           Options   to Employees in      Base     Expiration ------------------------------
Name                     Granted (#)  Fiscal Year(%)  Price ($/sh)    Date        5% ($)        10% ($)
- ----                     ----------- ---------------- ------------ ---------- -------------- ---------------
<S>                      <C>         <C>              <C>          <C>        <C>            <C>
Matthew Landa...........   60,000           10%         $10.125     10/15/07  $      382,053 $      968,198
Andrew Moley............   60,000           10           10.125     10/15/07         382,053        968,198
Jack O'Rear.............   15,000            3             8.00     08/22/07          75,467        191,249
                           15,000            3            10.50     11/13/07          99,050        251,014
                           10,000            2             9.00     05/18/08          56,600        143,436
Karl Chang..............
Lanny N. Lambert........    5,000            1             8.00     08/22/07          25,155         63,749
                           20,000            3             9.00     05/18/08         113,201        286,873
</TABLE>

                           Year-end Option Values (1)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  Value of Unexercised
                                                        Number of Unexercised    In-the-Money Options at
                         Shares Acquired    Value        Options at Year-end          Year-end ($)
Name                     on Exercise (#) Realized ($) Exercisable/Unexercisable Exercisable/Unexercisable
- ----                     --------------- ------------ ------------------------- -------------------------
<S>                      <C>             <C>          <C>                       <C>
Matthew Landa...........     25,000        $139,062        150,138/76,529           $332,864/$30,261
Andrew Moley............     25,000         139,062        150,138/76,529            332,864/30,261
Jack O'Rear.............          0               0         55,310/44,690            155,330/14,120
Karl Chang..............          0               0         63,040/10,627             80,749/21,593
Lanny Lambert...........          0               0         17,426/27,574             12,361/3,919
</TABLE>
- --------
(1) Market values of the underlying securities at July 31, 1998, $6.625 per
    share, minus exercise price of the unexercised options.

                                      124
<PAGE>

                           SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CMC

   As of June 21, 1999, CMC's records indicated that the following number of
shares were beneficially owned by (i) each person known by CMC to beneficially
own more than 5% of CMC's shares; (ii) each director of CMC; (iii) each
executive officer named in the Summary Compensation Table; and (iv) all
directors and executive officers of CMC as a group. Except as otherwise noted,
CMC knows of no agreements among its stockholders which relate to voting or
investment power of its Common Stock other than the voting agreements entered
into with ACT in connection with the merger agreement.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       Percent
                Amount and Nature of                       Beneficial     of
         Name and Address of Beneficial Owner             Ownership(1) Class(1)
         ------------------------------------             ------------ --------
      <S>                                                 <C>          <C>
      5% Holders:
        David S. Lee(2)(3)...............................  1,461,592     19.0%
        4950 Patrick Henry Drive
        Santa Clara, CA 94035
      Directors and Named Executive Officers:
        David S. Lee(2)(3)...............................  1,461,592     19.0
        Matthew G. Landa(3)..............................    239,496      3.0
        Andrew J. Moley(3)(4)............................    240,056      3.0
        Lanny N. Lambert(3)..............................     49,623       *
        Jack O'Rear(3)...................................     88,228      1.1
        Karl Chang(3)....................................    114,962      1.5
        Frederick W. Gibbs(3)............................     47,545       *
        Ira Coron(3).....................................     13,645       *
        Charles Holloway(3)..............................     18,645       *
        Richard M. Moley(3)..............................    370,450      4.8
        M. Kenneth Oshman(3).............................    316,250      4.1
      Directors and Executive Officers as a group(3)
       (11 persons)......................................  2,959,492     35.0%
</TABLE>
- --------
*Less than 1%

(1) Unless otherwise indicated beneficial ownership consists of sole voting and
    investing power based on 7,681,798 shares issued and outstanding, excluding
    options to purchase 1,035,168 shares, which options are exercisable or
    become exercisable within 60 days of June 21, 1999. Beneficial ownership is
    determined in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange
    Commission, and includes voting and investment power with respect to
    shares. Shares subject to options currently exercisable or exercisable
    within 60 days after June 21, 1999 are deemed outstanding for computing the
    percentage ownership of the person holding such options, but are not deemed
    outstanding for computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

(2) This amount does not include 5,000 shares of Common Stock owned by Mr.
    Lee's children. Mr. Lee disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares.

(3) Included in the table are shares of stock which may be acquired within 60
    days of June 21, 1999 by exercise of stock options as follows: Mr. Lee,
    18,645; Mr. Landa, 202,268; Mr. Andrew Moley, 202,268; Mr. Lambert, 26,957;
    Mr. O'Rear, 76,665; Mr. Chang, 70,542; Mr. Gibbs, 18,645; Mr. Coron,
    10,645; Mr. Holloway, 18,645; Mr. Richard M. Moley, 61,250; Mr. Oshman,
    61,250; all Directors and executive officers as a group, 767,780.

(4) Included in the table for Mr. Andrew Moley are 8,513 shares owned by a
    trust for which he serves as a co-trustee. Mr. Moley possesses shared
    voting and investment power with respect to all of the shares held by such
    trust.

                                      125
<PAGE>

                        DESCRIPTION OF ACT CAPITAL STOCK

   Assuming the stockholders of ACT approve the filing of the Amendment to the
Restated Articles to increase the number of authorized shares of ACT common
stock, the authorized capital stock of ACT will consist of 50,000,000 shares of
common stock, $0.01 par value per share, and 5,000,000 shares of preferred
stock, $0.01 par value per share.

Common Stock

   As of June 21, 1999, the record date for the ACT special meeting, there were
approximately 9,091,600 shares of ACT common stock outstanding held of record
by approximately 44 stockholders. ACT common stock is listed on the Nasdaq
National Market under the symbol "ACTM." Holders of ACT common stock are
entitled to one vote for each share held on all matters to be voted upon by the
stockholders and do not have cumulative rights. Accordingly, holders of a
majority of the shares of common stock entitled to vote in any election of
directors may elect all of the directors standing for election. Holders of
common stock are entitled to receive ratably such dividends, if any, as may be
declared by the board of directors out of funds legally available therefor,
subject to any preferential dividend rights of outstanding preferred stock.
Upon the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of ACT, the holders of common
stock are entitled to receive ratably the net assets of ACT available after the
payment of all debts and other liabilities and subject to the prior rights of
any outstanding preferred stock. Holders of the common stock have no
preemptive, subscription, redemption or conversion rights. The outstanding
shares of common stock are validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. The
rights, preferences and privileges of holders of common stock are subject to,
and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of shares of any
series of preferred stock which ACT may designate and issue in the future.
Currently, there are no shares of preferred stock outstanding.

Preferred Stock

   The board of directors is authorized, subject to certain limitations
prescribed by law, without further stockholder approval, to issue from time to
time up to an aggregate of 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more
series and to fix or alter the designations, preferences, rights and any
qualifications, limitations or restrictions of the shares of each such series
thereof, including the dividend rights, dividend rates, conversion rights,
voting rights, terms of redemption (including sinking fund provisions),
redemption price or prices, liquidation preferences and the number of shares
constituting any series or designations of such series. The issuance of
preferred stock may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a
change of control of ACT. ACT has no present plans to issue any shares of
preferred stock.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

   The transfer agent and registrar for the ACT common stock is American Stock
Transfer and Trust Company, 6201 15th Avenue, 3rd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11219 and
its telephone number is (718) 921-8360.

                        DESCRIPTION OF CMC CAPITAL STOCK

   The authorized capital stock of CMC consists of 15,000,000 shares of CMC
common stock, $0.01 par value per share, and 5,000,000 shares of preferred
stock, $.01 par value per share.

CMC Common Stock

   As of June 21, 1999, the record date for the CMC special meeting, there were
approximately 7,681,798 shares of CMC common stock outstanding held of record
by approximately 189 stockholders. CMC common stock is listed on the Nasdaq
National Market under the symbol "CMCI." Holders of CMC common stock are
entitled to one vote per share on all matters to be voted upon by the
stockholders and to receive such lawful

                                      126
<PAGE>

dividends as may be declared by CMC's board of directors. In the event of the
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of CMC, the holders of shares of CMC
common stock will be entitled to share ratably in CMC's assets. All outstanding
shares of CMC common stock are fully paid and nonassessable.

CMC Preferred Stock

   The CMC board has the authority, without any further vote or action by the
stockholders, to provide for the issuance of these shares of preferred stock in
one or more series, to establish from time to time the number of shares to be
included in each such series, to fix the designations, preferences, limitations
and relative, participating, optional or other special rights and
qualifications or restrictions on the shares of each series, and to determine
the voting powers, if any, of such shares. The issuance of preferred stock
could adversely affect, among other things, the rights of existing stockholders
or could delay or prevent a change in control of CMC without further action by
the stockholders. The issuance of preferred stock could decrease the amount of
earnings and assets available for distribution to holders of CMC common stock.
In addition, any such issuance could have the effect of delaying, deferring or
preventing a change in control of CMC and could make the removal of the present
management of CMC more difficult. CMC has no current plans to issue any
preferred stock.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

   The transfer agent and registrar for the CMC common stock is Union Planters
National Bank, 6200 Poplar Avenue, Suite 300, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 and its
telephone number is (901) 580-5476.

                          COMPARISON OF CAPITAL STOCK

   After completion of the merger between ACT and CMC, the holders of CMC
common stock who receive ACT common stock will become stockholders of ACT. The
rights of holders of ACT stock will be governed by Massachusetts law and by the
ACT Restated Articles of Organization and By-laws. The rights of holders of CMC
stock are presently governed by Delaware law and by the CMC Restated
Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws. The following discussion summarizes
the material differences between the rights of holders of CMC common stock and
holders of ACT common stock. This summary does not purport to be complete and
is qualified in its entirety by reference to the CMC Charter and By-laws, the
ACT Charter and By-laws and the relevant provisions of Delaware and
Massachusetts law.

Special Meeting of Stockholders

   Massachusetts law provides that special meetings of stockholders of a
corporation with a class of voting stock registered under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, may be called by a corporation's president or
directors, and, unless otherwise provided in the articles of organization or
by-laws, must be called by its clerk or any other officer upon written
application of the owners of at least 40% in interest of the corporation's
stock entitled to vote at such meeting. The ACT by-laws provide for the same
requirements. Delaware law provides that special meetings of stockholders may
be called by either the directors or by any other person as may be authorized
by the corporation's certificate of incorporation or by-laws. The CMC by-laws
provide that special meetings may be called by the chairman of the board, the
president, the board of directors pursuant to a resolution adapted by a
majority of the total number of authorized directors, or stockholders owning
not less than 10% of the entire capital stock issued and outstanding and
entitled to vote.

Inspection Rights

   Under Massachusetts law, a corporation's stockholders have the right for a
proper purpose to inspect the corporation's articles of organization, by-laws,
records of all meetings of incorporators and stockholders, and stock and
transfer records, including the stockholder list. The ACT by-laws do not alter
these statutory rights.

                                      127
<PAGE>

In addition, stockholders of a Massachusetts business corporation have a
qualified common law right under certain circumstances to inspect other books
and records of the corporation. Inspection rights under Delaware law are more
extensive than under Massachusetts law. Under Delaware law, stockholders, upon
the demonstration of a proper purpose, have the right to inspect and make
copies or extracts of a corporation's stock ledger, stockholder list, and other
books and records. The CMC by-laws provide that a stockholder list prepared for
a stockholder meeting shall be open to the examination of any stockholder or
stockholder's agent for a period of at least ten days prior to and at the
meeting.

Action by Consent of Stockholders

   Under Massachusetts law, any action to be taken by stockholders may be taken
without a meeting if all stockholders entitled to vote on the matter consent to
the action in writing, and such consents must be filed with the records of
meetings of stockholders. The ACT by-laws do not alter these statutory rights.
Under Delaware law, unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise,
any action to be taken by stockholders may be taken without a meeting, without
prior notice, and without a vote, if the stockholders having the number of
votes that would be necessary to take such action at a meeting at which all
stockholders were present and voted consent to the action in writing. The CMC
by-laws do not alter these statutory rights.

Cumulative Voting

   Massachusetts has no cumulative voting provision. The ACT charter does not
provide for cumulative voting. Under Delaware law, a corporation may provide in
its certificate of incorporation for cumulative voting by stockholders in
elections of directors (i.e., each stockholder casts as many votes for
directors as he has shares of stock multiplied by the number of directors to be
elected). The CMC charter does not provide for cumulative voting.

Dividends and Repurchases of Stock

   Under Massachusetts law, the payment of dividends and the repurchase of the
corporation's stock are generally permissible if such actions are not taken
when the corporation is insolvent, do not render the corporation insolvent or
bankrupt, and do not violate the corporation's charter. Under Delaware law, a
corporation generally is permitted to declare and pay dividends out of surplus
or out of net profits for the current and/or preceding fiscal year, provided
that such dividends will not reduce capital below the amount of capital
represented by all classes of stock having a preference upon the distribution
of assets. Also under Delaware law, a corporation may generally redeem or
repurchase shares of its stock if such redemption or repurchase will not impair
the capital of the corporation.

Classification of the Board of Directors

   Massachusetts law permits classification of a corporation's board of
directors, but in the case of a public company, Massachusetts law requires
classification into three classes and imposes certain requirements unless the
corporation makes an election not to be governed by the statutory provisions.
ACT has not made such an election and, therefore, the ACT board of directors is
classified into three classes. Delaware law permits (but does not require)
classification of a corporation's board of directors into one, two or three
classes. The CMC charter classifies the board of directors into three classes.

Removal of Directors

   Under Massachusetts law, stockholders may remove directors with or without
cause by a majority of shares entitled to vote. However, the ACT by-laws, in
conformity with statutory provisions, provide that if the directors are
classified with respect to the time for which they severally hold office
pursuant to Section 50A(a) of the Massachusetts Business Corporation Law, the
stockholders may, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares
outstanding and entitled to vote, remove any director, directors or the entire
board of directors only for cause. Under Massachusetts law, directors may
remove other directors for cause by a majority vote.

                                      128
<PAGE>

   Under Delaware law, although stockholders may generally remove directors
with or without cause by a majority vote, stockholders may remove members of
classified boards only for cause unless the certificate of incorporation
provides otherwise. Under Delaware law, directors are not permitted to remove
other directors. The CMC charter provides that the shareholders may, at a
meeting called expressly for that purpose, remove a director, with cause, by a
majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote at an election of
directors, or without cause, by sixty-six and two- thirds percent of such
outstanding shares entitled to vote therein.

Vacancies on the Board of Directors

   Under both Massachusetts and Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the
charter or by-laws, vacancies on the board of directors and newly created
directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors
may be filled by the remaining directors.

Exculpation of Directors

   Massachusetts law and Delaware law have substantially similar provisions
relating to exculpation of directors. Each state's law permits, and the ACT and
CMC charters provide, that no director shall be personally liable to ACT or
CMC, respectively, or their respective stockholders, for monetary damages for
breaches of fiduciary duty except where such exculpation is expressly
prohibited by law. The circumstances under which exculpation is prohibited are
substantially similar in Massachusetts and Delaware.

Indemnification of Directors, Officers and Others

   Both Massachusetts and Delaware law generally permit indemnification of
directors and officers for expenses incurred by them by reason of their
position with the corporation, if the director or officer has acted in good
faith and with the reasonable belief that his conduct was in the best interests
of the corporation. ACT's charter and by-laws provide for indemnification to
its directors and officers to the maximum extent legally permissible, provided
that ACT may not eliminate the liability of directors to the extent that such
liability is provided by applicable law:

  . for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or
    its stockholders,

  . for acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional
    misconduct or a knowing violation of law,

  . for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal
    benefit, or

  . for authorizing illegal distributions and/or loans to insiders.

   Delaware law, unlike Massachusetts law, does not permit a corporation to
indemnify persons against judgments in actions brought by or in the right of
the corporation (although it does permit indemnification in such situations if
approved by the Delaware Court of Chancery and for expenses of such actions).
The CMC charter authorizes CMC to provide indemnification to its agents to the
maximum extent legally permissible. CMC's by-laws provide indemnification to
its executive officers and directors to the maximum extent permissible provided
that CMC may limit the extent of such indemnification through contracts with
its executive officers and directors. Also, CMC's by-laws provide that CMC is
not required to indemnify its executive officers or directors in connection
with any proceeding initiated by such person against CMC or its directors,
officers, employees or agents unless

  . such indemnification is expressly required by law,

  . the proceeding was authorized by CMC's board of directors, or

  . such indemnification is provided by CMC pursuant to the powers vested in
    CMC under Delaware law.

Interested Director Transactions

   Delaware law provides that no transaction between a corporation and one or
more of its directors or officers or any entity in which one or more of its
directors or officers are directors or officers or have a

                                      129
<PAGE>

financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for that reason. In
addition, no such transaction shall be void or voidable solely because the
director or officer is present at, participates in, or votes at the meeting of
the board of directors or committee which authorizes the transaction. In order
that such a transaction not be found void or voidable, it must, after
disclosure of material facts, be approved by a vote of a majority of the
disinterested directors, or a committee of disinterested directors, or the
stockholders, or the transaction must be fair as to the corporation.
Massachusetts law has no comparable provisions. The ACT charter and by-laws and
the CMC charter and by-laws do not address this issue.

Sales, Lease or Exchange of Assets and Mergers

   Massachusetts law provides that a vote of two-thirds of the shares of each
class of stock outstanding and entitled to vote thereon is required to
authorize the sale, lease, or exchange of all or substantially all of a
corporation's property and assets or a merger or consolidation of the
corporation into any other corporation, except that the articles of
organization may provide that the vote of a greater or lesser proportion, but
not less than a majority of the outstanding shares of each class, is required.
Under Massachusetts law, the articles of organization or by-laws may provide
that all outstanding classes of stock shall vote as a single class, but, in the
case of a merger or consolidation, the separate vote of all classes of stock,
the rights of which would be adversely affected by the transaction, is also
required. The ACT charter reduces the stockholder vote required to approve such
transactions from two-thirds to a majority of each class outstanding and
entitled to vote thereon if such transaction has been approved by the board of
directors.

   Delaware law requires the approval of the directors and the vote of the
holders of a majority of the outstanding stock entitled to vote thereon for the
sale, lease, or exchange of all or substantially all of a corporation's
property and assets or a merger or consolidation of the corporation into any
other corporation, although the certificate of incorporation may require a
higher stockholder vote. The CMC charter does not require a higher vote.

Amendments to Charter

   Under Massachusetts law, amendments to a corporation's articles of
organization relating to certain changes in capital or in the corporate name
require the vote of at least a majority of each class of stock outstanding and
entitled to vote thereon. Amendments relating to other matters require a vote
of at least two-thirds of each class outstanding and entitled to vote thereon
or, if the articles of organization so provide, a greater or lesser proportion
but not less than a majority of the outstanding shares of each class. Under
Massachusetts law, the articles of organization or by-laws may provide that all
outstanding classes of stock shall vote as a single class, but the separate
vote of any class of stock the rights of which would be adversely affected by
the amendment is also required. The ACT charter reduces the stockholder vote
required to approve such amendments from two-thirds to a majority of each class
of stock outstanding and entitled to vote thereon. Under Delaware law,
amendments to the certificate of incorporation require the approval of the
directors and the vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock
and a majority of each class of stock outstanding and entitled to vote thereon
as a class, unless the certificate of incorporation requires a greater
proportion. The CMC charter requires a greater proportion, a vote of sixty-six
and two-thirds, to alter, amend or repeal Article VI or Article VIII of the CMC
charter. Delaware law requires a class vote when, among other things, an
amendment will adversely affect the powers, preferences or special rights of a
class of stock.

Amendments to By-laws

   Both Massachusetts and Delaware law provide that stockholders may amend the
by-laws and, if provided in its charter, the board of directors also has this
power. Under Massachusetts law, the power to make or repeal by-laws also lies
in the stockholders; provided that if authorized by the articles of
organization, the by-laws may provide that the directors may also make, amend
or repeal the by-laws, except with respect to any provision which by law, the
articles of organization or the by-laws requires action by the stockholders.
The

                                      130
<PAGE>

ACT by-laws may be amended by an affirmative vote of at least a majority of
stockholders entitled to vote, provided that notice of the proposed amendment
was given in the notice for the meeting and may be amended by the directors,
except with respect to any provision thereof which, by law, the articles of
organization or the by-laws require action by the stockholders. The CMC charter
provides that the directors may amend or repeal the by-laws in whole or in
part, except with respect to any provision thereof which by law or the by-laws
requires action by the stockholders. Under Delaware law, the power to adopt,
amend or repeal by-laws lies in stockholders entitled to vote; provided,
however, that any corporation may, in its certificate of incorporation, confer
the power to adopt, amend or repeal by-laws upon the directors. The CMC charter
and by-laws give the board of directors and shareholders the power to make,
alter, amend or repeal by-laws except those expressly outside their power to
amend, and except those that would conflict with an inconsistent agreement.

Appraisal Rights

   Dissenting stockholders have the right to obtain the fair value of their
shares, so-called "appraisal rights," in more circumstances under Massachusetts
law than under Delaware law. Under Massachusetts law, a properly dissenting
stockholder is entitled to receive the appraised value of his or her shares
when the corporation votes:

  . to sell, lease, or exchange all or substantially all of its property and
    assets,

  . to adopt an amendment to its articles of incorporation which adversely
    affects the rights of the stockholders, or

  . to merge or consolidate with another corporation.

   Under Delaware law, appraisal rights are available in connection with a
statutory merger or consolidation in certain specified situations. Appraisal
rights are not available when a corporation is to be the surviving corporation
and no vote of its stockholders is required to approve the merger. In addition,
unless otherwise provided in the charter, no appraisal rights are available to
holders of shares of any class of stock which is either:

  . listed on a national securities exchange or designated as a national
    market system security on an inter-dealer quotation system by the
    National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or

  . held of record by more than 2,000 stockholders,

   unless such stockholders are required by the terms of the merger to accept
anything other than:

    1. shares of stock of the surviving corporation;

    2. shares of stock of another corporation which are or will be so
       listed on a national securities exchange or designated as a national
       market system security on an inter-dealer quotation system by Nasdaq
       or held of record by more than 2,000 stockholders;

    3. cash in lieu of fractional shares of stock; or

    4. any combination thereof.

   Appraisal rights are not available under Delaware law in the event of the
sale, lease, or exchange of all or substantially all of a corporation's assets
or the adoption of an amendment to its certificate of incorporation, unless
such rights are granted in the corporation's charter.

"Anti-Takeover" Statutes

  Business Combination Statute

   Massachusetts' "business combination" statute is substantially similar to
Delaware's business combination statute. However, while the Massachusetts
statute has a 5% threshold with certain persons excluded, the Delaware statute
provides that, if a person acquires 15% or more of the stock of a Delaware
corporation without the approval of the board of directors of that corporation
(an "interested stockholder"), he

                                      131
<PAGE>

or she may not engage in certain transactions with the corporation for a period
of three years. Both the Massachusetts and Delaware statutes include certain
exceptions to this prohibition; for example, if the board of directors approves
the acquisition of stock or the transaction prior to the time that the person
became an interested stockholder, or if the interested stockholders acquires
90% (in the Massachusetts statute) or 85% (in the Delaware statute) of the
voting stock of the corporation (excluding voting stock owned by directors who
are also officers and certain employee stock plans) in one transaction, or if
the transaction is approved by the board of directors and by the affirmative
vote of two-thirds of the outstanding voting stock which is not owned by the
interested stockholder.

  Control Share Acquisition Statute

   Under the Massachusetts Control Share Acquisition statute for Massachusetts
corporations, a person (hereinafter, the "acquirer") who makes a bona fide
offer to acquire, or acquires, shares of stock of a corporation that when
combined with shares already owned, would increase the acquirer's ownership to
at least 20%, 33 1/3%, or a majority of the voting stock of the corporation,
must obtain the approval of a majority of shares held by all stockholders
except the acquirer and the officers and inside directors of the corporation,
in order to vote the shares acquired. The statute does not require the acquirer
to consummate the purchase before the stockholder vote is taken. The Control
Share Acquisition statute permits a Massachusetts corporation to elect not to
be governed by these provisions by including such an election in its articles
of organization or by-laws. The ACT by-laws state that the Control Share
Acquisition statute shall not apply to ACT. Delaware does not have a Control
Share Acquisition statute.

Consideration of Societal Factors

   Massachusetts law expressly provides that in determining what a director
reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the corporation, he may
consider the interests of the corporation's employees, suppliers, creditors and
customers; the economy of the state, region and nation; community and societal
considerations; and the long-term as well as short-term interests of the
corporation and its stockholders, including the possibility that these
interests may be best served by the continued independence of the corporation.
Thus, these interests could be considered even in connection with a decision to
sell a company. The ACT charter and by-laws do not discuss the consideration of
societal factors.

   Unlike Massachusetts, Delaware does not explicitly provide for the
consideration of societal interests by a corporation's board of directors in
making decisions. The Delaware Supreme Court has held that, in discharging
their responsibilities, directors may consider constituencies other than
stockholders, such as creditors, customers, employees and perhaps even the
community in general, as long as there are rationally related benefits accruing
to stockholders as well. The Delaware Supreme Court has, however, held that the
concern for non-stockholder interests is inappropriate when a sale of the
company is inevitable and an auction among active bidders is in progress. The
CMC charter and CMC by-laws do not directly discuss consideration of societal
factors.

                                 LEGAL MATTERS

   Certain legal matters with respect to the validity of the issuance of the
shares of ACT common stock offered hereby will be passed upon for ACT by Testa,
Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, Boston, Massachusetts.

                                      132
<PAGE>

                                    EXPERTS

   The consolidated financial statements of ACT as of December 31, 1998 and
1997, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998
included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus and the related consolidated
financial statement schedule included elsewhere in the registration statement
have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, as stated in
their report appearing in this joint proxy statement/prospectus, and are
included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as
experts in accounting and auditing.

   The consolidated financial statements of CMC as of July 31, 1997 and 1998,
and for each of the three years in the period ended July 31, 1998 appearing in
this joint proxy statement/prospectus have been so included in reliance on the
report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent accountants, given on the
authority of that firm as experts in auditing and accounting. The prospective
financial information included or referred to in this document has been
prepared by and is the responsibility of the management of ACT and CMC,
respectively. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has neither examined nor compiled the
accompanying prospective financial information, and accordingly,
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP does not express an opinion or any other form of
assurance with respect thereto. The PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP report included
in this document relates to the historical financial statements of CMC; it does
not extend to the prospective financial information and should not be read to
do so.

                   WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

   ACT and CMC file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and
other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and
copy any reports, statements or other information ACT or CMC files at the SEC's
public reference rooms in Washington, D.C., New York, New York and Chicago,
Illinois. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the
public reference rooms. ACT and CMC filings with the SEC are also available to
the public from commercial document retrieval services and at the Internet
website maintained by the SEC at "http://www.sec.gov." Since ACT's and CMC's
common stock trades on the Nasdaq National Market, you may also read their
Registration Statement and any report, statements or other information at the
Nasdaq offices at 1735 K Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.

   ACT filed a Registration Statement on Form S-4 to register with the
Securities and Exchange Commission the ACT common stock to be issued to CMC
stockholders in connection with the merger. This document is a part of that
Registration Statement and constitutes a prospectus of ACT in addition to being
a proxy statement of ACT and CMC for their special meetings. As allowed by
Securities and Exchange Commission rules, this document does not contain all
the information you can find in the Registration Statement or the exhibits to
the Registration Statement.

   You should rely only on the information provided in this joint proxy
statement/prospectus. You should not assume that the information in this joint
proxy statement/prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date on
the front of the document.

                             STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS

   Proposals of stockholders intended for inclusion in the proxy statement to
be furnished to all stockholders entitled to vote at the next annual meeting of
stockholders of ACT must be received at ACT's principal executive offices not
later than December 16, 1999. The deadline for providing timely notice to ACT
of matters that stockholders otherwise desire to introduce at the next annual
meeting of stockholders of ACT is February 28, 2000. Any such proposal must
comply with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission. In order to curtail controversy as to the date on which a proposal
was received by ACT, it is suggested that proponents submit their proposals by
Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested to ACT Manufacturing, Inc., 2 Cabot
Road, Hudson, MA 01749, Attention: Jeffrey B. Lavin, Clerk.

                                      133
<PAGE>

                   INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
ACT Manufacturing, Inc.--Audited Financial Statements

 Independent Auditors' Report.............................................  F-2

 Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1998 and 1997.............  F-3

 Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31,
  1998, 1997 and 1996.....................................................  F-4

 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years
  ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996..................................  F-4

 Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the years ended
  December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996........................................  F-5

 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
  1998, 1997 and 1996.....................................................  F-6

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................  F-7

ACT--Unaudited Interim Financial Statements

 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months
  ended March 31, 1999 and 1998........................................... F-18

 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three
  months ended March 31, 1999 and 1998.................................... F-18

 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1999 and December
  31, 1998................................................................ F-19

 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months
  ended March 31,1999 and 1998............................................ F-20

 Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements..................... F-21

CMC Industries, Inc.--Audited Financial Statements

 Report of Independent Accountants........................................ F-24

 Consolidated Balance Sheets as of July 31, 1998 and 1997................. F-25

 Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended July 31, 1998, 1997
  and 1996................................................................ F-26

 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the years
  ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996...................................... F-27

 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended July 31, 1998,
  1997 and 1996........................................................... F-28

 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... F-29

CMC--Unaudited Interim Financial Statements

 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.................................... F-41

 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.............................. F-42

 Condensed Statements of Cash Flows....................................... F-43

 Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements..................... F-44
</TABLE>

                                      F-1
<PAGE>

                          INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

Board of Directors and Stockholders
ACT Manufacturing, Inc.:

   We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ACT
Manufacturing, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss),
stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1998. Our audits also included the consolidated financial
statement schedule listed in the index at Item 21. These consolidated financial
statements and consolidated financial statement schedule are the responsibility
of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on
these consolidated financial statements and consolidated financial statement
schedule 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, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31,
1998 and 1997, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of
the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, such
consolidated financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the
basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in
all material respects the information set forth therein.

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Boston, Massachusetts
February 26, 1999

                                      F-2
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                           December 31, 1998 and 1997

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                       ASSETS                            1998          1997
                       ------                        ------------  ------------
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>
Current Assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents......................... $  5,388,537  $  5,165,197
  Accounts receivable trade (less allowance for
   doubtful accounts of $1,151,000 in 1998 and
   $2,030,000 in 1997)..............................   70,546,435    42,361,878
  Inventory.........................................   45,336,768    39,950,859
  Prepaid expenses and other assets.................    2,204,173     1,194,731
  Income taxes refundable...........................          --      8,417,111
  Deferred tax asset................................    1,359,626     1,509,000
                                                     ------------  ------------
    Total current assets............................  124,835,539    98,598,776
Property and Equipment--Net.........................   13,489,424     8,005,742
Goodwill--Net.......................................    5,505,964     6,129,527
Other Assets--Net...................................    1,538,050       805,443
                                                     ------------  ------------
    Total........................................... $145,368,977  $113,539,488
                                                     ============  ============

<CAPTION>
        LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
        ------------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>
Current Liabilities:
  Note payable bank................................. $        --   $ 40,206,410
  Accounts payable..................................   50,592,094    18,556,645
  Accrued compensation and related taxes............    1,463,526     1,657,610
  Income tax payable................................      504,755           --
  Accrued expenses and other........................    2,099,950     3,130,562
                                                     ------------  ------------
    Total current liabilities.......................   54,660,325    63,551,227
                                                     ------------  ------------
Other Long-Term Liabilities.........................      976,990       729,668
                                                     ------------  ------------
Note Payable Bank...................................   39,497,836           --
                                                     ------------  ------------
Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 12 and 14)
Stockholders' Equity:
  Preferred stock--$.01 par value; authorized,
   5,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding, none...          --            --
  Common stock--$.01 par value; authorized,
   20,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding,
   9,058,500 shares in 1998 and 9,062,946 shares in
   1997.............................................       90,585        90,629
  Additional paid-in capital........................   39,204,973    39,327,194
  Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).....     (179,750)        4,307
  Retained earnings.................................   11,118,018     9,836,463
                                                     ------------  ------------
    Total stockholders' equity......................   50,233,826    49,258,593
                                                     ------------  ------------
    Total........................................... $145,368,977  $113,539,488
                                                     ============  ============
</TABLE>

                See notes to consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-3
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                  Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           1998          1997          1996
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
<S>                                    <C>           <C>           <C>
Net sales............................  $290,529,091  $264,654,208  $225,900,182
Cost of goods sold...................   271,310,626   253,122,066   197,529,503
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Gross profit.........................    19,218,465    11,532,142    28,370,679
Selling, general and administrative
 expenses............................    14,686,751    15,061,975    10,016,851
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Operating income (loss)..............     4,531,714    (3,529,833)   18,353,828
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Other income (expense):
  Interest expense...................    (2,334,350)   (2,659,323)   (1,555,697)
  Other, net.........................        92,794       (46,593)      131,783
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
    Total............................    (2,241,556)   (2,705,916)   (1,423,914)
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Income (loss) before provision for
 income taxes........................     2,290,158    (6,235,749)   16,929,914
Benefit (provision) for income taxes.    (1,008,603)    2,229,000    (6,773,000)
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Net income (loss)....................  $  1,281,555  $ (4,006,749) $ 10,156,914
                                       ============  ============  ============
Basic net income (loss) per common
 share...............................  $       0.14  $      (0.45) $       1.16
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Diluted net income (loss) per common
 share...............................  $       0.14  $      (0.45) $       1.13
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Weighted average shares outstanding--
 basic...............................     9,062,576     8,951,688     8,762,233
                                       ------------  ------------  ------------
Weighted average shares outstanding--
 diluted.............................     9,199,184     8,951,688     9,012,495
                                       ============  ============  ============
</TABLE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

             CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

                  Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              1998        1997         1996
                                           ----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                        <C>         <C>          <C>
Net income (loss)......................... $1,281,555  $(4,006,749) $10,156,914
Other comprehensive income (loss):
  Foreign currency translation adjustment.   (184,057)       4,307          --
                                           ----------  -----------  -----------
Comprehensive income (loss)............... $1,097,498  $(4,002,442) $10,156,914
                                           ==========  ===========  ===========
</TABLE>


                See notes to consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-4
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

                  Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                          $.01
                           Par                  Accumulated
                          Value   Additional       Other                      Total
                         Common     Paid-in    Comprehensive  Retained    Stockholders'
                          Stock     Capital    Income (Loss)  Earnings       Equity
                         -------  -----------  ------------- -----------  -------------
<S>                      <C>      <C>          <C>           <C>          <C>
Balance, January 1,
 1996................... $87,132  $31,914,331    $     --    $ 3,686,298   $35,687,761
Net income..............     --           --           --     10,156,914    10,156,914
Net proceeds from sale
 of stock...............   1,040      522,721          --            --        523,761
Income tax benefit from
 employees' exercise of
 stock options..........     --       763,625          --            --        763,625
                         -------  -----------    ---------   -----------   -----------
Balance, December 31,
 1996...................  88,172   33,200,677          --     13,843,212    47,132,061
Net loss................     --           --           --     (4,006,749)   (4,006,749)
Net proceeds from sale
 of stock...............     552      503,438          --            --        503,990
Issuance of stock for
 acquisition............   1,905    5,248,095          --            --      5,250,000
Cumulative foreign
 currency translation
 adjustments............     --           --         4,307           --          4,307
Income tax benefit from
 employees' exercise of
 stock options..........     --       374,984          --            --        374,984
                         -------  -----------    ---------   -----------   -----------
Balance, December 31,
 1997...................  90,629   39,327,194        4,307     9,836,463    49,258,593
Net income..............     --           --           --      1,281,555     1,281,555
Cumulative foreign
 currency translation
 adjustments............     --           --      (184,057)          --       (184,057)
Cancellation of common
 stock from acquisition
 escrow.................     (44)    (122,221)         --            --       (122,265)
                         -------  -----------    ---------   -----------   -----------
Balance, December 31,
 1998................... $90,585  $39,204,973    $(179,750)  $11,118,018   $50,233,826
                         =======  ===========    =========   ===========   ===========
</TABLE>



                See notes to consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-5
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                  Years Ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        1998           1997           1996
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
<S>                                 <C>            <C>            <C>
Cash flows from operating
 activities:
  Net income (loss)...............  $   1,281,555  $  (4,006,749) $  10,156,914
  Adjustment to reconcile net
   income (loss) to net cash
   provided by (used for)
   operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization.      2,649,250      1,781,667      1,117,966
    Deferred income taxes.........        149,374        (22,000)      (982,000)
    Provision for doubtful
     accounts.....................      1,925,000      1,805,000         20,169
    Loss on disposal of fixed
     assets.......................        140,625            --             --
    Increase (decrease) in cash
     from:
      Accounts receivable--trade..    (30,109,557)       155,175    (21,909,379)
      Inventory...................     (5,385,909)    16,365,565    (23,606,811)
      Prepaid expenses and other
       assets.....................     (1,009,442)    (1,573,433)      (254,881)
      Accounts payable............     32,035,449     (9,655,635)     5,666,094
      Accrued compensation and
       related taxes..............       (194,084)       130,026        693,453
      Income tax refundable
       (payable)..................      8,921,866     (9,976,944)     2,048,589
      Accrued expenses and other..       (978,767)     1,579,289      1,026,905
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
        Net cash provided by (used
         for) operating
         activities...............      9,425,360     (3,418,039)   (26,022,981)
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
Cash flows from investing
 activities:
  Acquisition of property and
   equipment......................     (7,945,817)    (2,432,380)    (3,026,585)
  (Increase) decrease in other
   noncurrent assets..............       (632,012)      (152,661)        98,303
  Proceeds from the sale of
   property and equipment.........         72,963            --             --
  Acquisitions, net of cash
   acquired.......................            --      (2,387,938)           --
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
        Net cash used for
         investing activities.....     (8,504,866)    (4,972,979)    (2,928,282)
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
Cash flows from financing
 activities:
  Borrowings under line-of-credit
   agreements.....................    255,404,553    243,631,547    167,079,696
  Repayments under line-of-credit
   agreements.....................   (256,113,127)  (233,885,125)  (140,624,721)
  Repayments of other long-term
   liabilities....................       (287,863)    (1,790,386)       (70,258)
  Receipt of deferred revenue.....        483,340            --             --
  Net proceeds from sale of stock.            --         503,990        523,761
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
        Net cash (used for)
         provided by financing
         activities...............       (513,097)     8,460,026     26,908,478
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
Effect of exchange rate changes on
 cash and equivalents.............       (184,057)        41,823            --
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash
 and cash equivalents.............        223,340        110,831     (2,042,785)
Cash and cash equivalents,
 beginning of year................      5,165,197      5,054,366      7,097,151
                                    -------------  -------------  -------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of
 year.............................  $   5,388,537  $   5,165,197  $   5,054,366
                                    =============  =============  =============
</TABLE>

                 See notes to consolidated financial statements

                                      F-6
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

   Nature of Business--ACT Manufacturing, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the "Company")
provide value-added electronics manufacturing services for original equipment
manufacturers in the networking and telecommunications, computer, industrial
and medical equipment markets. The Company provides original equipment
manufacturers with complex printed circuit board assembly primarily utilizing
advanced surface mount technology, mechanical and molded cable and harness
assembly, electro-mechanical subassembly, and total system assembly and
integration.

   Principles of Consolidation--The consolidated financial statements include
the accounts of ACT Manufacturing, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All
significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

   Translation of Foreign Currency--The Company translates financial statements
denominated in foreign currency by translating balance sheet accounts at the
end of period exchange rate and statement of operations accounts at the average
exchange rate for the period. Translation gains and losses are recorded as a
separate component of stockholders' equity in accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) and transaction gains and losses are reflected in other income
(loss).

   Use of Estimates--The preparation of the Company's consolidated financial
statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
necessarily requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect
the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the balance sheet dates. Estimates include such items
as reserves for accounts receivable and inventory, useful lives of other
assets, goodwill, property and equipment, and accrued liabilities.

   Fair Value of Financial Instruments--Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards ("SFAS") No. 107, "Disclosures About Fair Value of Financial
Instruments," requires disclosure of the fair value of certain financial
instruments. The carrying amounts of cash, cash equivalents, accounts
receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value
because of their short-term nature. The Company's bank debt, because it carries
a variable interest rate, is also stated at its approximate fair market value.

   Derivatives--The Company has entered into an interest rate swap that
qualifies as a matched swap that is linked by designation with a balance sheet
liability and has opposite interest rate characteristics of such balance sheet
item. Matched interest rate swaps qualify for settlement accounting. Under
settlement accounting, periodic net cash settlements under the swap agreement
are recognized in income on an accrual basis. These settlements are offset
against interest expense in the consolidated statements of operations.

   Revenue Recognition--Revenue is recognized upon shipment of the product.

   Cash and Cash Equivalents--For the purposes of the statement of cash flows,
the Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a
remaining maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

   Inventory--Inventory is valued at the lower of cost or market using the
first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method.

   Property and Equipment--Purchased property and equipment is recorded at
cost. Capital lease property and equipment is recorded at the lesser of cost or
the present value of the minimum lease payments required. Depreciation and
amortization are provided using the straight-line method over the estimated
useful lives of the related assets (five to seven years) and over the terms of
the related leases (five years).

                                      F-7
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   Goodwill--Goodwill is being amortized on a straight-line basis over fifteen
years.

   Other Assets--Other assets include cash surrender value of officer's life
insurance and noncompete agreements. The noncompete agreements are being
amortized over three to ten years.

   Warranty--The Company generally warrants that its hardware assemblies will
be free from defects in workmanship for 12 months and passes on to the customer
any warranties provided by component manufacturers and material suppliers to
the extent permitted. Warranty costs have not been material to date, and
accordingly, no reserves have been provided for.

   Income Taxes--The Company accounts for income taxes under Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes."
This Statement requires recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for
the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the
Company's consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax
liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the
financial statement carrying amounts and tax bases of existing assets and
liabilities, using enacted tax rates in effect in the years in which the
differences are expected to reverse.

   Stock Based Compensation--As permitted by SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation," the Company accounts for stock option grants using
the intrinsic value method in accordance with Accounting Principles Board
("APB") Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees."

   Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share--Basic net income per common share is
computed by dividing income available to common stockholders by the weighted
average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net income
per common share reflects the potential dilution if common equivalent shares
outstanding (common stock options) were exercised or converted into common
stock unless the effects of such equivalent shares were antidilutive.

   A reconciliation of shares used in the earnings per share ("EPS")
calculation is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           Income (Loss)    Shares     Per Share
                                            (Numerator)  (Denominator)  Amount
                                           ------------- ------------- ---------
                                              (000s)         (000s)
      <S>                                  <C>           <C>           <C>
      1998
      Basic EPS...........................    $ 1,282        9,063       $0.14
                                              =======                    =====
      Stock options.......................                     136
                                                             -----
      Diluted EPS.........................    $ 1,282        9,199       $0.14
                                              =======        =====       =====
      1997
      Basic and diluted EPS...............    $(4,007)       8,952       $(.45)
                                              =======        =====       =====
      1996
      Basic EPS...........................    $10,157        8,762       $1.16
                                              =======                    =====
      Stock options.......................                     250
                                                             -----
      Diluted EPS.........................    $10,157        9,012       $1.13
                                              =======        =====       =====
</TABLE>

   Options to purchase 557,200 and 892,364 shares of common stock were
outstanding during 1998 and 1997, respectively, but were not included in the
computation of diluted EPS because of either the net loss in 1997 or because
the option's exercise price was greater than the average market price of the
common stock and, therefore, their effect would be antidilutive.

                                      F-8
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   Supplemental Cash Flow Information--Selected cash payments and noncash
activities were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                1998       1997         1996
                                             ---------- -----------  -----------
   <S>                                       <C>        <C>          <C>
   Cash paid for interest..................  $2,518,781 $ 2,435,000  $ 1,446,000
   Cash refunded from (paid for) income
    taxes..................................   8,314,000  (7,935,000)  (5,713,000)
   Noncash investing and financing
    activities:
     Reduction in income taxes payable for
      disqualifying common stock
      dispositions.........................         --      374,984      736,625
     Assets acquired in exchange for common
      stock................................         --    5,250,000          --
     Reduction of goodwill upon
      cancellation of common stock from
      acquisition escrow...................     122,265         --           --
</TABLE>

   Comprehensive Income--The Company adopted SFAS No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income" in 1998. SFAS No. 130 requires the reporting of
comprehensive income, which in the case of the Company, is the combination of
reported net income and the change in the cumulative translation adjustment,
which is a component of stockholders' equity.

   Segments--Effective January 1, 1998 the Company adopted provisions of SFAS
No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related
Information." The standard requires the reporting of certain information about
operating segments including the basis for the presentation and segment profit
or loss. The disclosures relating to this statement are included in Note 13.

   Reclassifications--Certain reclassifications have been made to the 1997
consolidated financial statements to conform with 1998 presentation.

   Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standard--In June 1998, the Financial
Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," effective for fiscal years
beginning after June 15, 1999. The new standard requires that all companies
record derivatives on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at
fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of those
derivatives would be accounted for depending on the use of the derivative and
whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. Management is currently assessing
the impact of SFAS No. 133 on the consolidated financial statements of the
Company. The Company will adopt this accounting standard on January 1, 2000,
as required.

2. Acquisitions

   Effective June 9, 1997, the Company acquired substantially all of the
assets and liabilities of Electronics Systems International ("ESI") located in
Norcross, Georgia. ESI is a contract manufacturer to customers throughout the
southeastern United States. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, the
Company acquired assets and liabilities of ESI in exchange for 190,546 shares
of the Company's common stock plus acquisition costs. In 1998 the Company
cancelled 4,446 shares previously issued and held in escrow. The per share
market value of the Company's common stock on the date of the purchase was
$27.50.

   Effective June 10, 1997, the Company acquired substantially all of the
outstanding stock of Advanced Component Technologies Limited (f.k.a. SignMax
Limited), a cable and harness manufacturing company based in Dublin, Ireland.
Under the terms of the purchase agreement, approximately 82% of the
outstanding common shares of Advanced Component Technologies Limited (f.k.a.
SignMax Limited) were acquired for cash of $1,000,000 plus acquisition costs.

   Effective June 27, 1997, the Company acquired all of the outstanding stock
of SignMax America, LLC, which owned the remaining 18% of Advanced Component
Technologies Limited (f.k.a. SignMax Limited). Under the terms of the purchase
agreement, 100% of the outstanding common shares were acquired for cash of
$460,000 and the assumption of $575,000 in notes payable.

                                      F-9
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   The transactions were accounted for as purchases in accordance with APB
Opinion No. 16 "Business Combinations" as follows:

<TABLE>
      <S>                                                           <C>
      Details of Acquisitions:
        Cash paid, net of cash acquired............................ $ 1,454,480
        Acquisition expenses.......................................     939,025
                                                                    -----------
          Total cash paid..........................................   2,393,505
        Common stock issued........................................   5,250,000
                                                                    -----------
          Total cash paid and common stock issued..................   7,643,505
        Liabilities assumed........................................   4,334,315
                                                                    -----------
          Total purchase price of acquisitions.....................  11,977,820
        Fair value of assets acquired..............................   5,609,230
                                                                    -----------
          Excess of purchase price over net assets................. $ 6,368,590
                                                                    ===========
</TABLE>

   The Company attributes the goodwill to the expected ability to expand sales
in these new geographic markets, utilizing the acquired existing business
infrastructure, and geographic market presence as a basis for expansion.
Accumulated amortization amounted to approximately $640,000 and $239,000 at
December 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively. The operating results of the acquired
businesses from the dates of purchases are included in the Company's
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 1997. The
Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 1998
includes a full year of operations of the acquired businesses. Pro forma
information has not been provided, as the operations of the acquired businesses
were not material to the consolidated results of operations or financial
position of the Company in 1997 and 1996.

3. Inventory

   Inventory consisted of the following at December 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1998        1997
                                                         ----------- -----------
      <S>                                                <C>         <C>
      Raw materials..................................... $32,486,190 $27,903,435
      Work in process...................................  10,873,591  11,370,378
      Finished goods....................................   1,976,987     677,046
                                                         ----------- -----------
          Total......................................... $45,336,768 $39,950,859
                                                         =========== ===========
</TABLE>

4. Property And Equipment

   Property and equipment consisted of the following at December 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       1998         1997
                                    -----------  -----------
      <S>                           <C>          <C>
      Leasehold improvements......  $ 6,043,003  $ 2,869,522
      Equipment...................    7,349,340    6,181,792
      Office furniture and
       equipment..................    4,923,249    3,467,301
      Vehicles....................      143,536      143,536
      Construction-in-progress....    2,687,139    1,059,703
                                    -----------  -----------
          Total property and
           equipment..............   21,146,267   13,721,854
      Less accumulated
       depreciation and
       amortization...............   (7,656,843)  (5,716,112)
                                    -----------  -----------
          Property and equipment--
           net....................  $13,489,424  $ 8,005,742
                                    ===========  ===========
</TABLE>

   Included in property and equipment is equipment held under capital leases
with a net carrying value of $580,950 and $821,638 at December 31, 1998 and
1997, respectively.

                                      F-10
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   The Company has capitalized interest in the amount of $171,000 in 1998
related to the construction-in-progress.

5. Note Payable Bank

   In the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company executed a new $55 million Senior
Secured Credit Facility ("Credit Facility") to replace the Company's $50
million loan and security agreement then outstanding. This new Credit Facility
provides for borrowings up to an aggregate amount of $55 million, limited to a
certain percentage of qualified accounts receivable and qualified inventory, of
which $39.5 million was utilized at December 31, 1998. An additional $7.8
million was available for use at December 31, 1998 based upon the applicable
borrowing base. Interest is payable monthly and the Credit Facility matures in
2001. Through November 30, 1999, the Company may choose an interest rate of
either (i) 0% to .75% above the prime rate as announced by the bank, or (ii)
1.75% to 2.75% above the prevailing Eurodollar rate depending upon the average
borrowing base availability of the Company. Commencing December 1, 1999, the
Company may choose an interest rate of either (i) 0% to .50% above the prime
rate as announced by the bank, or (ii) 1.50% to 2.50% above the prevailing
Eurodollar rate depending upon the calculated leverage rates of the Company.
The Credit Facility requires the Company to maintain certain levels of minimum
availability and maximum leverage ratios. In addition to certain other
prohibited actions, the Credit Facility also limits capital expenditures by the
Company and prohibits the payment of cash dividends on the Company's capital
stock. At December 31, 1998 the interest rate on the Credit Facility was 8.0%.

   At December 31, 1998 the Company was not in compliance with the capital
expenditure covenant of its Credit Facility. The Company has received a waiver
from the bank relating to this covenant.

   The Company was in default as of December 31, 1997 with certain financial
covenants under its former loan and security agreement. The Company's banks
waived compliance with such covenants as of December 31, 1997. Due to the
nature of the financial covenants, the Company reclassified all its long-term
bank debt of $40.2 million at December 31, 1997 to a current liability.

   The Company entered into a $17 million interest rate swap agreement in the
fourth quarter of 1998 simultaneous with the execution of the Credit Facility.
The swap agreement provides for payments by the Company at a fixed rate of
interest of 6.76% and matures on October 19, 2001. The fair value of the
interest rate swap at December 31, 1998 was approximately $(770,000) since the
fixed rate of interest of 6.76% was higher than the floating rate.

6. Other Long-Term Liabilities

   Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following at December 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             1998       1997
                                                          ---------- ----------
      <S>                                                 <C>        <C>
      Noncompete covenant................................ $  302,779 $  349,954
      Deferred revenue...................................    483,340        --
      Capital leases--equipment..........................    580,950    821,638
                                                          ---------- ----------
          Total..........................................  1,367,069  1,171,592
      Less current portion...............................    390,079    441,924
                                                          ---------- ----------
          Other long-term liabilities.................... $  976,990 $  729,668
                                                          ========== ==========
</TABLE>

   Noncompete Covenant--In 1993, the Company entered into an agreement with its
former sole stockholder, which provides for monthly payments over a ten-year
period, in return for a promise not to compete. The liability is recorded at
the present value of the required future payments at an interest rate of 8%.

                                      F-11
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   Deferred Revenue--The Company received a $483,340 grant in the fourth
quarter of 1998 under an agreement with the Ireland Industrial Development
Agency. The $483,340 payment has been recorded as deferred revenue at December
31, 1998 since the Company will be required to return the grant if certain
conditions such as employment level are not met by December 31, 2002.

   Equipment Leases--The Company leases certain equipment used in its
manufacturing operations under capital lease agreements that expire through
2003.

   Other long-term liabilities at December 31, 1998 are due as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        Noncompete Capital  Deferred
                                         Covenant   Leases  Revenue    Total
                                        ---------- -------- -------- ----------
      <S>                               <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>
      1999.............................  $ 79,345  $363,282 $    --  $  442,627
      2000.............................    85,691   171,728      --     257,419
      2001.............................    92,547    84,927      --     177,474
      2002.............................    99,950    13,735  483,340    597,025
      2003.............................       --      7,523      --       7,523
                                         --------  -------- -------- ----------
          Total........................   357,533   641,195  483,340  1,482,068
      Less amount representing
       interest........................    54,754    60,245      --     114,999
                                         --------  -------- -------- ----------
      Present value of minimum
       payments........................   302,779   580,950  483,340  1,367,069
      Less current portion.............    57,188   332,891      --     390,079
                                         --------  -------- -------- ----------
          Other long-term
           liabilities.................  $245,591  $248,059 $483,340 $  976,990
                                         ========  ======== ======== ==========
</TABLE>

7. Income Taxes

   The (provisions) benefit for income taxes are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              1998         1997        1996
                                           -----------  ----------  -----------
      <S>                                  <C>          <C>         <C>
      Current taxes:
        Federal........................... $  (729,000) $2,289,000  $(5,922,000)
        State.............................    (130,229)    (82,000)  (1,833,000)
                                           -----------  ----------  -----------
                                              (859,229)  2,207,000   (7,755,000)
      Deferred taxes......................    (149,374)     22,000      982,000
                                           -----------  ----------  -----------
          Total........................... $(1,008,603) $2,229,000  $(6,773,000)
                                           ===========  ==========  ===========
</TABLE>

   Deferred income tax assets are attributable to the following at December 31:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            1998        1997
                                                         ----------  ----------
      <S>                                                <C>         <C>
      Accounts receivable............................... $  460,000  $  800,000
      Inventory.........................................    435,000     270,000
      Depreciation......................................   (289,000)   (211,000)
      Accrued expenses..................................    386,626     263,000
      State operating loss, net.........................    367,000     387,000
                                                         ----------  ----------
      Net deferred tax asset............................ $1,359,626  $1,509,000
                                                         ==========  ==========
</TABLE>

   No valuation allowance is required as the net deferred tax asset is expected
to be fully realized.

                                      F-12
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   A reconciliation of the expected tax rate at the U.S. statutory rate to the
effective tax rate is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1998  1997   1996
                                                               ----  ----   ----
      <S>                                                      <C>   <C>    <C>
      Federal statutory rate..................................  34%  (34)%   34%
      State income taxes, net of federal benefit..............   6    (4)     6
      Adjustments to prior year tax liability.................   3   --     --
      Other...................................................   1     2    --
                                                               ---   ---    ---
      Effective rate..........................................  44%  (36)%   40%
                                                               ===   ===    ===
</TABLE>

   For income tax purposes, the Company incurred in 1997 a federal net
operating loss of approximately $7,947,000, which the Company has elected to
carryback and recover federal income taxes paid in prior years. The amount of
federal income taxes related to the net operating loss carryback was
approximately $2,700,000. For state income tax purposes the Company has a net
operating loss carryforward in 1998 of approximately $6,219,000 which is
available to offset future state taxable income. The carryforward will expire
in 2002. A deferred tax asset of $367,000 and $387,000 for 1998 and 1997,
respectively, has been recorded to reflect the net future benefit of this
asset.

8. Stock Options

   The Company has a 1995 Stock Plan, which provides for the grant of
incentive and nonqualified stock options to purchase up to an aggregate
1,250,000 shares. The Company has a 1995 Non-Employee Director Stock Option
Plan that provides for the grant of options to purchase a maximum of 100,000
shares to nonemployee directors of the Company. The Company also has a 1993
Incentive Stock Option Plan under which options for up to 690,664 shares of
common stock may be granted at an exercise price not less than fair market
value at the date of grant. Stock option activity was as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            Number of     Weighted     Average
                                             Options   Exercise Price Fair Value
                                            ---------  -------------- ----------
      <S>                                   <C>        <C>            <C>
      Outstanding at January 1, 1996.......   484,664      $ 5.90
      Granted..............................   268,000       12.79       $ 3.12
      Exercised............................  (104,000)       5.04
      Forfeited............................  (160,000)      10.91
                                            ---------
      Outstanding at December 31, 1996.....   488,664        8.22
      Granted..............................   598,500       25.50        13.49
      Exercised............................   (55,200)       9.13
      Forfeited............................  (139,600)      21.45
                                            ---------
      Outstanding at December 31, 1997.....   892,364       17.55
      Granted..............................   888,500       11.04         3.56
      Exercised............................       --          --
      Forfeited............................  (539,300)      24.07
                                            ---------
      Outstanding at December 31, 1998..... 1,241,564       10.11
                                            =========
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                 Options Outstanding                     Options Exercisable
      -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Weighted Average
      Number of      Range of     Remaining Life  Weighted Average Number Currently
       Options    Exercise Price    (In Years)     Exercise Price    Exercisable
      ---------   -------------- ---------------- ---------------- ----------------
      <S>         <C>            <C>              <C>              <C>
       33,600      $       0.48        4               $ 0.48           33,600
       63,932        3.70- 3.96        4                 3.84           53,666
      435,832        5.45- 7.88        7                 7.48          121,666
      235,400        8.75-12.25        8                 9.66           28,400
      466,800       13.64-20.38        7                14.12          102,400
        6,000             27.13        8                27.13            1,200
</TABLE>


                                     F-13
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)

   The options vest over three to five-year periods.

   The Company has reserved shares for future grants of common stock for
issuance pursuant to the 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1995 Non-Employee
Director Stock Option Plan and the 1995 Stock Plan for 450,800, 62,000 and
286,300 shares, respectively.

   In January 1998 the Board of Directors approved a vote to reprice 516,500
employee stock options. The options were originally issued between March 1997
through October 1997 and had original grant prices ranging between $14.44 and
$39.25. The grant price for these options was lowered to $13.94, which reflects
the market value of the stock as of the reprice date. The repriced options
continue to vest according to the original grant date. No compensation expense
was required to be recorded in the consolidated statements of operations.

   As described in Note 1, the Company uses the intrinsic value method to
measure compensation expense associated with grants of stock options to
employees. Had the Company used the fair value method to measure compensation
for grants made after December 31, 1994, (including the repricing described
above) pro forma net income and net income per share would have been as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               1998        1997         1996
                                             ---------  -----------  ----------
      <S>                                    <C>        <C>          <C>
      Net income (loss)..................... $(666,943) $(6,030,779) $9,727,914
                                             =========  ===========  ==========
      Diluted earnings (loss) per common
       share................................ $   (0.07) $     (0.67) $     1.08
                                             =========  ===========  ==========
</TABLE>

   The fair value of options on their grant date was measured using the
Black/Scholes option-pricing model. Key assumptions used to apply this pricing
model are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  1998       1997       1996
                                ---------  ---------  ---------
      <S>                       <C>        <C>        <C>
      Risk-free interest rate.        5.5%       6.0%       6.4%
      Expected life of option
       grants.................  3-5 years  3-5 years  3-5 years
      Expected volatility of
       underlying stock.......        102%        82%        63%
</TABLE>

   It should be noted that the option-pricing model used was designed to value
readily tradable stock options with relatively short lives. The options granted
to employees are not tradable and have contractual lives of up to ten years.
However, management believes that the assumptions used to value the options and
the model applied yield a reasonable estimate of the fair value of the grants
made under the circumstances.

9. Employee Benefits Plan

   During 1994, the Company adopted a savings plan for its employees pursuant
to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Substantially all employees are
eligible to participate, and the plan allows a deferral ranging from a minimum
1% to the maximum percentage of compensation permitted by law. Company
contributions to the plan are at the discretion of the Board of Directors.
Contributions to the Plan were $0, $50,000 and $0, in 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.

10. Major Customers

   The three largest customers accounted for 19%, 18% and 16%, respectively, of
the Company's net sales for 1998. The three largest customers accounted for
31%, 13% and 13%, respectively, of the Company's net sales for 1997. In 1996,
the Company's four largest customers accounted for 20%, 17%, 13% and 13%,
respectively, of net sales.

                                      F-14
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


11. Transactions With Related Parties

   The Company leases certain facilities and equipment from a realty trust
controlled by its principal stockholder under leases that expire in 2003. These
commitments are included in Note 12. The Company pays all operating costs of
the building. Total payments to the realty trust were approximately $388,000 in
1998 and $364,000 in 1997 and 1996, respectively.

   In 1993, the Company entered into a ten-year agreement with one of its
directors for future consulting services. Payments under the agreement were
approximately $280,000 in 1998, $259,000 in 1997 and $240,000 in 1996. Future
commitments under this agreement are approximately $302,000 in 1999, $326,000
in 2000, $352,000 in 2001, $380,000 in 2002 and $233,000 in 2003. The agreement
expires in 2003. A noncompete agreement was also entered into with the same
individual (see Notes 1 and 6). Payments under this agreement were $73,000 in
1998, $68,000 in 1997, and $63,000 in 1996 with future payments totaling
$358,000.

12. Operating Lease Commitments

   The Company leases various plant and office equipment under noncancelable
operating leases expiring through 2007. Rent expense in 1998, 1997 and 1996 was
approximately $8,848,000, $5,911,000, and $2,700,000, respectively. The future
minimum rental payments under these leases over the next five years are
approximately as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              Related-
                                                party       Other
                                             Commitments Commitments    Total
                                             ----------- ----------- -----------
      <S>                                    <C>         <C>         <C>
      1999.................................. $  364,000  $ 8,193,261 $ 8,557,261
      2000..................................    364,000    7,470,787   7,834,787
      2001..................................    364,000    5,770,319   6,134,319
      2002..................................    364,000    3,893,487   4,257,487
      2003..................................    196,083    2,127,411   2,323,494
                                             ----------  ----------- -----------
          Total............................. $1,652,083  $27,455,265 $29,107,348
                                             ==========  =========== ===========
</TABLE>

   The Company has equipment lease lines of approximately $11.3 million
available for purchases of manufacturing equipment, computer hardware and
software and furniture. In May 1998, the Company entered into a $5.0 million
operating lease line agreement for the purchase of certain equipment in the
Dublin, Ireland facility. At December 31, 1998 substantially all of this
available lease line had been utilized for outstanding commitments.

13. Segment Information

   The Company has identified two distinct and reportable segments: the Printed
Circuit Board ("printed circuit board") and Cable and Harness ("Cable")
segments. The Company considers these two segments reportable under SFAS No.
131 criteria as they are managed separately and the operating results of each
segment are regularly reviewed and evaluated separately by the Company's chief
decision maker. Evaluations of each segment are done on the basis of revenue,
material and direct labor expenses and direct gross profit. The Company's
reportable segments are strategic business units that are each managed
separately, because they provide different services with different operating
processes and marketing strategies. The Company accounts for intersegment sales
and transactions as if they were to third parties and attempts to set fees
consistent with those that would apply in an arm's length transaction with a
non-affiliate.

   The printed circuit board operations provide original equipment
manufacturers with complex printed circuit board assembly primarily utilizing
advanced surface mount technology, electromechanical sub-assembly

                                      F-15
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)

and total system assembly. The Cable operations provide custom-manufactured
ribbon, multiconductor, co-axial and fiber optic cable assemblies and discrete
harness assemblies. The accounting policies of each segment are in accordance
with those described in Note 1.

   A summary of information about the Company's operations by segment for the
years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              Printed
                              Circuit
                               Board        Cable    Intercompany   Corporate     Total
                            ------------ ----------- ------------  ----------- ------------
   <S>                      <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>         <C>
   1998
   Revenue................. $258,134,002 $42,671,928 $(10,276,839) $       --  $290,529,091
   Material and direct
    labor expense..........  208,131,202  32,042,318          --           --   240,173,520
   Direct gross profit.....   50,002,800  10,629,610  (10,276,839)         --    50,355,571
   Indirect labor and
    overhead...............          --          --           --    31,137,107   31,137,107
   Total gross profit......          --          --           --           --    19,218,465

   1997
   Revenue................. $236,886,054 $31,692,605 $ (3,924,451) $       --  $264,654,208
   Material and direct
    labor expense..........  205,449,206  22,580,981          --           --   228,030,187
   Direct gross profit.....   31,436,848   9,111,624   (3,924,451)         --    36,624,021
   Indirect labor and
    overhead...............          --          --           --    25,091,879   25,091,879
   Total gross profit......          --          --           --           --    11,532,142

   1996
   Revenue................. $198,158,791 $31,192,456 $ (3,451,065) $       --  $225,900,182
   Material and direct
    labor expense..........  159,445,638  20,489,363          --           --   179,935,001
   Direct gross profit.....   38,713,153  10,703,093   (3,451,065)         --    45,965,181
   Indirect labor and
    overhead...............          --          --           --    17,594,502   17,594,502
   Total gross profit......          --          --           --           --    28,370,679
</TABLE>

14. Contingencies

   On February 27, 1998, the Company and certain of the Company's officers and
directors were named as defendants in a purported securities class action
lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of
Massachusetts. The complaint was then amended on October 16, 1998. The
plaintiffs purport to represent a class of all persons who purchased or
otherwise acquired the Company's Common Stock in the period from April 17, 1997
through March 31, 1998. The amended complaint alleges, among other things, that
the defendants knowingly made misstatements to the investing public about the
value of the Company's inventory and the nature of its accounting practices. On
December 15, 1998, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the case in its
entirety based on the pleadings. The Company's motion to dismiss has been fully
briefed by both sides, and oral argument is scheduled for April 1999. The
Company believes the claims asserted in the amended complaint are without merit
and intends to continue to defend itself vigorously in this action. The Company
further believes that this litigation will not have a material adverse effect
on the Company's business and results of operations, although there can be no
assurance as to the ultimate outcome of these matters. No provision for any
liability that may result from this litigation has been made in the
accompanying consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-16
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


15. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited):

   Summarized quarterly financial data are as follows (in thousands except per
share amounts):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     1998 Quarters
                                            ----------------------------------
                                             First   Second   Third    Fourth
                                            -------  ------- -------  --------
      <S>                                   <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>
      Net sales............................ $60,943  $74,173 $78,887  $ 76,526
      Gross profit.........................   1,972    3,986   5,821     7,439
      Net income (loss)....................  (1,126)      86     796     1,526
      Earnings (loss) per share:
        Basic..............................   (0.12)    0.01    0.09      0.17
        Diluted............................   (0.12)    0.01    0.09      0.17
<CAPTION>
                                                     1997 Quarters
                                            ----------------------------------
                                             First   Second   Third    Fourth
                                            -------  ------- -------  --------
      <S>                                   <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>
      Net sales............................ $70,250  $72,364 $62,306  $ 59,734
      Gross profit.........................   9,042    9,496   3,390   (10,396)
      Net income (loss)....................   3,361    3,631    (620)  (10,379)
      Earnings (loss) per share:
        Basic..............................    0.38     0.41   (0.07)    (1.15)
        Diluted............................    0.37     0.39   (0.07)    (1.15)
</TABLE>

   The Company's 1997 loss (before taxes) includes certain significant
adjustments and non-recurring charges recorded during the fourth quarter:

<TABLE>
<S>                               <C>
Physical inventory adjustments..  $13,113,000
Allowance for doubtful accounts.    1,740,000
Non-recurring professional fees.      600,000
                                  -----------
                                  $15,453,000
                                  ===========
</TABLE>


                                   * * * * *

                                      F-17
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                  (unaudited--in thousands, except share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Three Months Ended
                                                               March 31,
                                                         ---------------------
                                                            1999       1998
                                                         ---------- ----------
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>
Net sales............................................... $   81,190 $   60,943
Cost of goods sold......................................     73,681     58,971
                                                         ---------- ----------
Gross profit............................................      7,509      1,972
Selling, general and administrative expenses............      3,681      3,017
                                                         ---------- ----------
Operating income (loss).................................      3,828     (1,045)
Interest expense, net...................................        704        740
Other, net..............................................         13         92
                                                         ---------- ----------
  Total.................................................        717        832
                                                         ---------- ----------
Income (loss) before provision for income taxes.........      3,111     (1,877)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes....................      1,245       (751)
                                                         ---------- ----------
Net income (loss)....................................... $    1,866 $   (1,126)
                                                         ========== ==========
Basic net income (loss) per common share................ $     0.21 $    (0.12)
                                                         ========== ==========
Diluted net income (loss) per common share.............. $     0.20 $    (0.12)
                                                         ========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding--basic..............  9,067,883  9,062,946
                                                         ========== ==========
Weighted average shares outstanding--diluted............  9,510,799  9,062,946
                                                         ========== ==========

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

             CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

                           (unaudited--in thousands)

<CAPTION>
                                                          Three Months Ended
                                                               March 31,
                                                         ---------------------
                                                            1999       1998
                                                         ---------- ----------
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>
Net income (loss)....................................... $    1,866 $   (1,126)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
  Foreign currency translation adjustment...............         43       (184)
                                                         ---------- ----------
Comprehensive income (loss)............................. $    1,909 $   (1,310)
                                                         ========== ==========
</TABLE>

  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated
                             financial statements.

                                      F-18
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                                 (in thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         March 31,  December 31,
                                                           1999         1998
                                                        ----------- ------------
                                                        (Unaudited)
<S>                                                     <C>         <C>
                        ASSETS
                        ------
Current Assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents............................  $  1,741     $  5,389
  Accounts receivable, net.............................    91,832       70,546
  Inventory............................................    41,573       45,337
  Prepaid expenses and other assets....................     1,201        2,204
  Deferred taxes.......................................     1,360        1,360
                                                         --------     --------
    Total current assets...............................   137,707      124,836
Property and Equipment--Net............................    16,289       13,489
Goodwill--Net..........................................     5,395        5,506
Other Assets--Net......................................     1,275        1,538
                                                         --------     --------
    Total..............................................  $160,666     $145,369
                                                         ========     ========
         LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
         ------------------------------------
Current Liabilities:
  Accounts payable.....................................  $ 60,528     $ 50,592
  Accrued compensation and related taxes...............     1,071        1,463
  Income tax payable...................................       824          505
  Accrued expenses and other...........................     2,350        2,100
                                                         --------     --------
    Total current liabilities..........................    64,773       54,660
                                                         --------     --------
Other Long-Term Liabilities............................     2,102          977
                                                         --------     --------
Note Payable Bank......................................    41,255       39,498
                                                         --------     --------
Contingencies..........................................       --           --
                                                         --------     --------
Stockholders' Equity:
  Common stock.........................................        91           91
  Additional paid-in capital...........................    39,598       39,205
  Accumulated other comprehensive loss.................      (137)        (180)
  Retained earnings....................................    12,984       11,118
                                                         --------     --------
    Total stockholders' equity.........................    52,536       50,234
                                                         --------     --------
    Total..............................................  $160,666     $145,369
                                                         ========     ========
</TABLE>

  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated
                             financial statements.

                                      F-19
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                           (unaudited, in thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Three Months
                                                             Ended March 31,
                                                            ------------------
                                                              1999      1998
                                                            --------  --------
<S>                                                         <C>       <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income (loss)........................................ $  1,866  $ (1,126)
                                                            --------  --------
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash(used for)
   provided by operating activities:
    Deferred taxes.........................................      --       (751)
    Depreciation and amortization..........................    1,056       600
    (Decrease) increase in cash from:
      Accounts receivable--trade...........................  (21,286)   (2,489)
      Inventory............................................    3,764    (4,315)
      Prepaid expenses and other assets....................    1,003      (137)
      Accounts payable.....................................    9,936    18,464
      Accrued expenses.....................................     (813)      283
      Income tax payable (refundable)......................      319      (239)
                                                            --------  --------
        Total adjustments..................................   (6,021)   11,416
                                                            --------  --------
Net cash (used for) provided by operating activities.......   (4,155)   10,290
                                                            --------  --------
Cash flows from investing activities:
  Acquisition of property and equipment....................   (1,549)   (2,486)
  Decrease (increase) in other assets......................      263       (44)
                                                            --------  --------
        Net cash used for investing activities.............   (1,286)   (2,530)
                                                            --------  --------
Cash flows from financing activities:
  Borrowings under line-of-credit agreements...............   67,812    43,883
  Repayments under line-of-credit agreements...............  (66,055)  (55,092)
  Repayments of other long-term liabilities................     (400)     (117)
  Net proceeds from sale of stock..........................      393       --
                                                            --------  --------
        Net cash provided by (used for) financing
         activities........................................    1,750   (11,326)
                                                            --------  --------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents....       43         7
                                                            --------  --------
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents..................   (3,648)   (3,559)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year...............    5,389     5,165
                                                            --------  --------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period................... $  1,741  $  1,606
                                                            ========  ========
</TABLE>

   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated
financial statements.

                                      F-20
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

              NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Significant Accounting Policies

   The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements furnished
herein reflect all adjustments, which in the opinion of management are of a
normal recurring nature, necessary to fairly state the Company's financial
position, cash flows and the results of operations for the periods presented
and have been prepared on a basis substantially consistent with the audited
financial statements.

   The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily
indicative of the results of operations to be expected for the fiscal year.
These interim condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in
conjunction with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ending
December 31, 1998 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

2. Inventory

   Inventory consisted of the following at:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                March 31, 1999 December 31, 1998
                                                -------------- -----------------
                                                         (in thousands)
        <S>                                     <C>            <C>
        Raw material...........................    $32,995          $32,486
        Work in process........................      8,470           10,874
        Finished goods.........................        108            1,977
                                                   -------          -------
          Total................................    $41,573          $45,337
                                                   =======          =======
</TABLE>

3. Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share

   Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing income available
to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding for the period. Diluted net income per common share reflects the
potential dilution as if common equivalent shares outstanding (common stock
options) were exercised and converted into common stock unless the effects of
such equivalent shares were antidilutive.

4. Segment Information

   The Company has identified two distinct and reportable segments: the Printed
Circuit Board ("PCB") and Cable and Harness ("Cable") segments. The Company
considers these two segments reportable under Statements of Financial
Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 131, "Disclosures About Segments of an
Enterprise and Related Information," criteria as they are managed separately
and the operating results of each segment are regularly reviewed and evaluated
separately by the Company's chief decision maker.

                                      F-21
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

       NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   A summary of information about the Company's operations by segment for the
three months ended March 31, 1999 and 1998 is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    PCB   Cable  Intercompany Corporate  Total
                                  ------- ------ ------------ --------- -------
<S>                               <C>     <C>    <C>          <C>       <C>
1999
  Revenue........................ $73,341 $8,568   $  (719)    $  --    $81,190
  Material and direct labor
   expense.......................  59,405  5,709       --         --     65,114
  Direct gross profit............  13,936  2,859      (719)       --     16,076
  Indirect labor and overhead....     --     --        --       8,567     8,567
  Total gross profit.............     --     --        --         --      7,509
1998
  Revenue........................ $53,217 $9,217   $(1,491)    $  --    $60,943
  Material and direct labor
   expense.......................  44,685  6,709       --         --     51,394
  Direct gross profit............   8,532  2,508    (1,491)       --      9,549
  Indirect labor and overhead....     --     --        --       7,577     7,577
  Total gross profit.............     --     --        --         --      1,972
</TABLE>

5. New Financial Accounting Standards

   In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS
No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,"
effective for the fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. The new standard
requires that all companies record derivatives on the balance sheet as assets
or liabilities, measured at fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes
in the values of those derivatives would be accounted for depending on the use
of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. Management is
currently assessing the impact of SFAS No. 133 on the consolidated financial
statements of the Company. The Company will adopt this accounting standard on
January 1, 2000, as required.

6. Equipment Leases

   The Company leases certain equipment used in its manufacturing operations
under capital lease agreements that expire through 2003. During the first
quarter of 1999 the Company refinanced approximately $2.6 million of its then
existing operating leases and classified these leases as capital leases in the
accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet for the three month period
ending March 31, 1999. The effect of this refinancing on the Company's results
of operations will not differ materially from the previous lease financing
arrangements.

7. Contingencies

   On February 27, 1998, the Company and certain of the Company's officers and
directors were named as defendants in a purported securities class action
lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of
Massachusetts. The complaint was then amended on October 16, 1998. The
plaintiffs purport to represent a class of all persons who purchased or
otherwise acquired the Company's Common Stock in the period from April 17, 1997
through March 31, 1998. The amended complaint alleges, among other things, that
the defendants knowingly made misstatements to the investing public about the
value of the Company's inventory and the nature of its accounting practices. On
December 15, 1998, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the case in its
entirety based on the pleadings. The Company's motion to dismiss has been fully
briefed by both sides, and oral argument was heard on April 28, 1999. The
Company believes the claims asserted in the amended complaint are without merit
and intends to continue to defend itself vigorously in this action. The Company
further believes that this litigation will not have a material adverse effect
on the Company's business

                                      F-22
<PAGE>

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

       NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


and results of operations, although there can be no assurance as to the
ultimate outcome of these matters. No provision for any liability that may
result from this litigation has been made in the accompanying condensed
consolidated financial statements.

8. Subsequent Event

   On May 10, 1999, the Company entered into a definitive merger agreement with
CMC Industries, Inc. ("CMC"), a provider of electronics manufacturing services
to original equipment manufacturers in the telecommunications, computer and
electronics industries. The closing of the merger with CMC (the "Merger") is
subject to the approval of the shareholders of CMC and the Company, various
regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Under the terms of
the agreement, each share of CMC Industries common stock will be exchanged for
0.5 shares of ACT Manufacturing common stock. The Merger is expected to be
accounted for as a pooling of interests. The Merger would add approximately
550,000 square feet of capacity at operations located in Corinth, Mississippi,
Santa Clara, California and Hermosillo, Mexico.

                                      F-23
<PAGE>

                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

To the Board of Directors and
Stockholders of CMC Industries, Inc.

   In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of income, of changes in stockholders' equity and of
cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
CMC Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries at July 31, 1998 and 1997, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended July 31, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. 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 of these
statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which
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, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.

                                          /s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Memphis, Tennessee
August 21, 1998, except as to
Note 14, which is as of
October 9, 1998

                                      F-24
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                (In thousands, except share and per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 July 31,
                                                              ----------------
                           ASSETS                              1998     1997
                           ------                             -------  -------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
Current Assets
  Cash and cash equivalents.................................. $ 5,281  $ 4,298
  Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
   accounts of $82 and $75, respectively.....................  31,282   32,533
  Accounts and notes receivable from affiliates..............   5,678    9,186
  Inventories................................................  20,275   29,900
  Other current assets.......................................   2,000    1,196
                                                              -------  -------
    Total current assets.....................................  64,516   77,113
Property, plant and equipment, net...........................  18,790   11,498
Investment in preferred stock of affiliate...................   5,884    5,884
Note receivable from affiliate...............................   1,400       --
Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization of $285 and $233,
 respectively................................................     718      770
Other assets.................................................   3,297    1,278
                                                              -------  -------
                                                              $94,605  $96,543
                                                              =======  =======
<CAPTION>
            LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
            ------------------------------------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
Current liabilities
  Notes payable under lines of credit........................ $18,111  $12,792
  Current portion of capital lease obligations...............     846      428
  Current portion of long-term debt..........................   1,300    1,300
  Trade accounts payable.....................................  21,365   35,936
  Accrued compensation and related benefits..................   1,941    2,284
  Accrued expenses and other current liabilities.............   4,591    1,854
  Deferred tax liabilities...................................     769    1,884
                                                              -------  -------
    Total current liabilities................................  48,923   56,478
Capital lease obligations....................................      10      832
Long-term debt...............................................   2,258    3,558
Other noncurrent liabilities.................................     105      149
Deferred tax liabilities.....................................   1,364      682
                                                              -------  -------
    Total liabilities........................................  52,660   61,699
                                                              -------  -------
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 6 and 14)
Stockholders' equity
  Common stock, $.01 par value; 15,000,000 shares authorized;
   7,554,816 and 6,892,211 shares issued and outstanding,
   respectively..............................................      76       69
  Additional paid-in capital.................................  36,157   31,594
  Treasury stock (42,500 shares at cost).....................    (441)    (441)
  Retained earnings..........................................   6,153    3,622
                                                              -------  -------
    Total stockholders' equity...............................  41,945   34,844
                                                              -------  -------
                                                              $94,605  $96,543
                                                              =======  =======
</TABLE>

   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-25
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         Year Ended July 31,
                                                      --------------------------
                                                        1998     1997     1996
                                                      -------- -------- --------
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>      <C>
Net sales
  Non-affiliates..................................... $275,519 $183,173 $126,686
  Affiliates.........................................   26,436   31,312   38,025
                                                      -------- -------- --------
    Total net sales..................................  301,955  214,485  164,711
                                                      -------- -------- --------
Cost of sales
  Non-affiliates.....................................  259,507  172,274  118,973
  Affiliates.........................................   24,321   28,807   34,983
                                                      -------- -------- --------
    Total cost of sales..............................  283,828  201,081  153,956
                                                      -------- -------- --------
Gross profit.........................................   18,127   13,404   10,755
Selling, general and administrative expenses.........   12,697    9,454    8,251
Restructuring charge.................................      --       --       792
                                                      -------- -------- --------
Operating income.....................................    5,430    3,950    1,712
Interest expense.....................................    1,384    1,350    1,512
                                                      -------- -------- --------
Income before income taxes...........................    4,046    2,600      200
Income tax provision.................................    1,515      994       95
                                                      -------- -------- --------
Net income........................................... $  2,531 $  1,606 $    105
                                                      ======== ======== ========
Net income per share
  Basic.............................................. $   0.35 $   0.24 $   0.02
                                                      ======== ======== ========
  Diluted............................................ $   0.34 $   0.22 $   0.02
                                                      ======== ======== ========
Weighted average shares outstanding
  Basic..............................................    7,205    6,757    6,235
                                                      ======== ======== ========
  Diluted............................................    7,553    7,167    6,449
                                                      ======== ======== ========
</TABLE>



   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-26
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

                       (In thousands, except share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              Common           Retained Treasury
                              Shares   Capital Earnings  Stock   Other   Total
                             --------- ------- -------- -------- -----  -------
<S>                          <C>       <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>    <C>
Balance, July 31, 1995.....  6,097,902 $27,360  $1,911   $ --    $(933) $28,338
Net income.................                        105                      105
Issuance of shares.........    436,037   2,364                            2,364
Issuance of warrants.......                 44                               44
Exercise of stock options..    128,840     314                              314
Minimum pension liability..                                        (63)     (63)
                             --------- -------  ------   -----   -----  -------
Balance, July 31, 1996.....  6,662,779  30,082   2,016     --     (996)  31,102

Net income.................                      1,606                    1,606
Exercise of warrants.......    168,963   1,267                            1,267
Exercise of stock options..     60,469     314                              314
Minimum pension liability..                                        996      996
Purchase of treasury stock.                               (441)            (441)
                             --------- -------  ------   -----   -----  -------
Balance, July 31, 1997.....  6,892,211  31,663   3,622    (441)    --    34,844

Net income.................                      2,531                    2,531
Exercise of stock options..     84,580     342                              342
Employee stock purchase
 plan......................     78,025     608                              608
Private placement..........    500,000   3,620                            3,620
                             --------- -------  ------   -----   -----  -------
Balance, July 31, 1998.....  7,554,816 $36,233  $6,153   $(441)  $ --   $41,945
                             ========= =======  ======   =====   =====  =======
</TABLE>



   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      F-27
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                                 (In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Year Ended July 31,
                                                   ---------------------------
                                                     1998      1997     1996
                                                   --------  --------  -------
<S>                                                <C>       <C>       <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income...................................... $  2,531  $  1,606  $   105
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
   Provided by (used in) operating activities:
    Deferred income taxes.........................     (433)    1,409     (718)
    Depreciation and amortization.................    2,235     1,805    1,746
    (Gain) loss on disposition of assets..........       (9)      --        10
    Bad debt expense..............................       20       --       --
    Changes in assets and liabilities:
      Receivables.................................    3,339   (17,087)    (914)
      Inventories.................................    9,625    (8,682)   4,788
      Other assets................................   (2,823)     (842)   1,379
      Trade accounts payable......................  (14,571)   20,399    2,246
      Accrued expenses and other current
       liabilities................................    2,394      (614)     693
      Other liabilities...........................      (44)       15     (166)
                                                   --------  --------  -------
        Net cash provided by (used in) operating
         activities...............................    2,264    (1,991)   9,169
                                                   --------  --------  -------
Cash flows from investing activities:
  Capital expenditures............................   (9,504)   (2,388)  (5,669)
  Proceeds from disposition of assets.............       38       --       126
                                                   --------  --------  -------
        Net cash used in investing activities.....   (9,466)   (2,388)  (5,543)
                                                   --------  --------  -------
Cash flows from financing activities:
  Net borrowings (repayments) under lines of
   credit.........................................    5,319     5,966   (3,477)
  Proceeds from longterm debt.....................      --        --     1,596
  Principal payments on longterm debt.............   (1,300)   (1,300)  (1,347)
  Principal payments on capital leases............     (404)     (547)    (232)
  Proceeds from exercise of stock options and
   Issuance of stock and warrants.................    3,962     1,581    2,722
  Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan......      608       --       --
                                                   --------  --------  -------
        Net cash provided by (used in) financing
         activities...............................    8,185     5,700     (738)
                                                   --------  --------  -------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents.........      983     1,321    2,888
                                                   --------  --------  -------
Cash and cash equivalents
  Beginning of year...............................    4,298     2,977       89
                                                   --------  --------  -------
  End of year..................................... $  5,281  $  4,298  $ 2,977
                                                   ========  ========  =======
Supplemental Information:
  Income taxes paid (refunded).................... $    628  $   (206) $   488
  Interest paid................................... $  1,368  $  1,360  $ 1,697
</TABLE>

   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

                                      F-28
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1--Organization and Basis of Presentation

  Description of Business

   CMC Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company") provide contract
manufacturing services primarily to original equipment manufacturers ("original
equipment manufacturers") in the computer and telecommunications industries.
Over 90% of the Company's manufacturing contracts are for turnkey services and
include procurement of materials in addition to manufacturing.

Note 2--Significant Accounting Policies

 Principles of consolidation

   The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 Use of estimates and assumptions

   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities,
disclosure of contingencies at the date of the financial statements and the
related reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period.
Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 Cash and cash equivalents

   Cash on hand and in banks, together with other highly liquid investments
with original maturities of three months or less, are classified as cash
equivalents.

 Revenue recognition

   In addition to providing contract manufacturing services on a turnkey basis,
the Company performs assembly services on a consignment basis where the
customer typically procures the components used in the process. The Company
recognizes revenue upon shipment for both turnkey and consignment contracts.

 Inventories

   Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost has been
determined by the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for 100% and approximately
77% of inventories as of July 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.

 Property, plant and equipment

   Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated
depreciation. The Company provides for depreciation using the straightline
method for financial reporting purposes and accelerated methods for income tax
reporting purposes.

 Goodwill

   The excess of purchase price over net tangible assets of businesses acquired
is carried as goodwill. The Company amortizes such amounts on a straight-line
basis over a twenty-year period. The Company recorded amortization expense of
$52,000 for years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively, related to
the purchase of a subsidiary in fiscal 1994.

                                      F-29
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


 Impairment of long-lived assets

   At each balance sheet date, the Company assesses whether there has been an
impairment in the value of long-lived assets by determining whether projected
undiscounted cash flows generated by the applicable asset exceeds its net book
value as of the assessment date. At July 31, 1998, there were no impairments of
the Company's assets.

 Deferred loan costs

   Loan origination fees paid in connection with new borrowings are amortized
using a method which approximates the effective rate method over the terms of
the related borrowing. Amortization is included in interest expense.

 Preoperating costs

   Preoperating and start-up costs incurred in connection with the construction
and preparation of the Company's new Mexico manufacturing facility have been
capitalized and will be amortized over a five-year period. Capitalized
preoperating and start-up costs included in other assets total $1,200,000 as of
July 31, 1998.

   In 1998, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued
Statement of Position ("SOP") 98-5, Reporting on the Costs of Start-up
Activities. This SOP is effective for the Company in fiscal 2000 and requires
companies to expense such costs as incurred. Pursuant to this SOP, the Company
will be required to expense the remaining unamortized balance of the
aforementioned costs in the first quarter of fiscal 2000.

 Medical care and disability benefit plans

   The Company is self-insured with respect to certain medical care and
disability benefit plans for 70% of employees. The costs for such plans are
charged against earnings in the period incurred. The liability of health care
claims was $447,000 and $397,000 as of July 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively,
and the related expense incurred was $2,847,048, $3,331,000 and $3,078,000 for
the years ended July 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company does
not provide benefits under these plans to retired employees.

 Translation of foreign currencies

   The functional currency of the Mexico operation is the U.S. dollar. Foreign
currency gains and losses associated with Mexico operations are included in
determining net income. As of July 31, 1998, the operation was in the start-up
mode and had not incurred any such transaction gains or losses.

 Income taxes

   The Company accounts for income taxes under Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 109 ("FAS 109"), Accounting for Income Taxes.
FAS 109 is an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of
deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of
events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax
returns. In estimating future tax consequences, the Company generally considers
all expected future events other than enactments of changes in the tax law or
rates.

 Net income per share

   Net income per share is calculated in accordance with SFAS No. 128, Earnings
per Share, which requires the presentation of basic and diluted earnings per
share. Basic earning per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing
income available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of
common

                                      F-30
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)

shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the
potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue
common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the
issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity (see
Note 12).

 Financial instruments

   Financial instruments are evaluated pursuant to SFAS No. 107, Disclosures
about Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The following methods and
assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial
instrument: cash, receivables and payables--the carrying amounts approximate
fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments; investment in
preferred stock of affiliate--the carrying amount is based upon the present
value of cash flows as of August 1993 (date of the restructure of the
Company). Although the period has shortened, management does not believe that
there has been an appreciable difference in the value of their security since
the date received. Long-term debt--the fair value of the Company's long-term
debt is estimated based on the current borrowing rates available to the
Company for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities. The carrying
amounts approximate fair value thereof because borrowings bear interest at a
variable interest rate.

 Presentation

   Certain fiscal 1997 and 1996 balances have been reclassified to conform to
the current year presentation.

Note 3--Major Customers and Credit Risk Concentrations

   A substantial portion of the Company's sales are generated from contract
manufacturing agreements with domestic original equipment manufacturers and
from sales to domestic distributors of telecommunication products. Sales and
related accounts receivable attributable to customers representing 10% or more
of total net sales are as follow (in millions):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Net Sales
                                                  Year Ended July  Receivable at
                                                        31,          July 31,
                                                 ----------------- -------------
                                                 1998  1997  1996   1998   1997
                                                 ----- ----- ----- ------ ------
      <S>                                        <C>   <C>   <C>   <C>    <C>
      Micron.................................... $71.4 $45.4 $ --  $  --  $  6.5
      Global Village............................  32.8  29.6  21.3    4.4    8.2
      Reltec....................................  36.4  24.2   3.7    5.7    4.3
</TABLE>

   The Company's credit risk principally relates to trade accounts receivable
and receivables from Cortelco, a related party. The Company performs ongoing
credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require collateral.

Note 4--Inventories

   Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   July 31,
                                                                ---------------
                                                                 1998    1997
                                                                ------- -------
      <S>                                                       <C>     <C>
      Raw materials and purchased components................... $17,868 $26,205
      Work-in-progress.........................................   1,637   2,874
      Finished goods...........................................     770     821
                                                                ------- -------
                                                                $20,275 $29,900
                                                                ======= =======
</TABLE>

   The carrying value of inventories at July 31, 1998 and 1997 approximated
replacement cost.

                                     F-31
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


Note 5--Property, Plant and Equipment

   The components and useful lives of property, plant and equipment are as
follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  July 31,
                                                   Useful life ----------------
                                                     (years)    1998     1997
                                                   ----------- -------  -------
      <S>                                          <C>         <C>      <C>
      Machinery and equipment.....................    3-10     $17,269  $15,992
      Building....................................      30       4,622      --
      Furniture and fixtures......................    5-15       2,933    1,465
      Leasehold improvements......................       5       1,575      484
      Computer software...........................       5         --       457
      Construction in progress....................                 151       56
      Land........................................                 798      --
                                                               -------  -------
                                                                27,348   18,454
      Less--Accumulated depreciation..............              (8,558)  (6,956)
                                                               -------  -------
                                                               $18,790  $11,498
                                                               =======  =======
</TABLE>

   During fiscal 1998, the Company acquired fixed assets totaling $6,395,000
for its operation in Mexico. Depreciation expense was $2,183,000, $1,753,000
and $1,694,000 for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Property, plant
and equipment include assets under capital leases with a cost of $1,595,000 as
of July 31, 1998 and 1997 and accumulated amortization of $560,000 and $400,000
as of July 31, 1998 and 1997, respectively.

Note 6--Buildings and Equipment Under Lease

   The Company leases its primary manufacturing facility and certain equipment
and computer software under capital leases. Certain office, warehouse, other
manufacturing facilities and equipment are leased under operating leases. These
lease agreements generally include renewal options at varying terms. Future
minimum lease payments under the noncancelable portion of capital and operating
leases at July 31, 1998 are as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Operating Capital
      Fiscal Year                                               Leases   Leases
      -----------                                              --------- -------
      <S>                                                      <C>       <C>
      1999....................................................  $ 6,981   $852
      2000....................................................    5,562      5
      2001....................................................    3,675      5
      2002....................................................    2,652      5
      2003....................................................    1,958      5
                                                                -------   ----
      Future minimum lease payments...........................  $20,828    872
                                                                =======   ----
      Less--Amount representing interest......................              16
      Present value of future minimum lease payments..........             856
      Less--Current portion...................................             846
                                                                          ----
      Long-term portion.......................................            $ 10
                                                                          ====
</TABLE>

   Rent expense relating to operating leases totaled approximately $5,428,000,
$3,450,000 and $1,555,000 for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 respectively. The
capital lease payments due in 1999 include balloon payments related to two
equipment leases. The Company has the option to renew the leases for an
additional year with payments totaling $43,000 per month. The Company intends
to exercise the renewal option.

                                      F-32
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


Note 7--Borrowings

   On September 26, 1996, the Company entered into a Loan and Security
Agreement with a financial institution which provides the Company with a total
credit facility of $35 million including the following:

  . Revolving credit facility totaling $25 million including letters of
    credit, bearing interest, at the Company's option, at either the prime
    lending rate or an Adjusted Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Credit
    Agreement). The Company had $18.1 million and $12.8 million outstanding
    at weighted average interest rates of 8.0% and 8.6% at July 31, 1998 and
    1997, respectively.

  . Term loan totaling $6 million, payable in 55 monthly installments of
    $108,333 and a final installment of $91,667, commencing October 1, 1996,
    and bearing interest, at the Company's option, at either the prime
    lending rate or an Adjusted Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Credit
    Agreement). At July 31, 1998, the Company had outstanding $3.6 million at
    an average interest rate of 7.74%. At July 31, 1997, the Company had
    outstanding $4.9 million at an average interest rate of 8.43%.

  . Commitment to lend up to $3.8 million for machinery and equipment
    purchases in the form of installment loans, bearing interest, at the
    Company's option, at either the prime lending rate or an Adjusted
    Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Credit Agreement).

   Outstanding borrowings under this financing arrangement are secured
primarily by the Company's accounts receivable, inventories, machinery and
equipment. This financing arrangement expires in October 1998.

   The Loan and Security Agreement contains certain restrictive covenants which
limit the activities of the Company with respect to, among other things,
mergers and acquisitions, additional borrowings and leases, investments and the
payment of dividends. The Loan and Security Agreement includes the following
financial covenants:

  . to maintain minimum tangible net worth of an agreed upon amount on a
    consolidated basis;

  . to not permit the ratio of total liabilities to stockholders' equity to
    exceed an agreed upon amount;

  . to limit capital expenditures to agreed upon levels;

  . to maintain debt service coverage ratio, as defined, of an agreed upon
    level.

 Maturities of long-term debt

   The aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt are as follows (amounts in
thousands):

<TABLE>
             <S>                                <C>
             1999.............................. $1,300
             2000..............................  1,300
             2001..............................    958
</TABLE>

Note 8--Capital Stock

 Private Placement

   In 1998, the Company issued 500,000 shares of stock to two members of the
board of directors in a private placement. Proceeds from the issuance totaled
$3,620,000. The purchase price equaled the fair market value of the stock
issued.

                                      F-33
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


 Recapitalization

   On May 16, 1996, the Company issued 436,037 shares of common stock with
detachable warrants that entitle the holders to purchase 168,963 shares of
common stock at a price of $7.50 per share. The total proceeds for the shares
and warrants issued were $2,464,000 and $44,000, respectively. Due to the
Company meeting specified levels of financial performance, the warrants were
called during fiscal 1997. Total proceeds from the exercise of the warrants
were $1.3 million.

 Stock purchase plan

   On November 15, 1996, the Stockholders' approved the Employee Stock Purchase
Plan ("ESPP"). The ESPP allows eligible employees the right to purchase common
stock on a semi-annual basis at the lower of 85% of the market price at the
beginning or end of each offering period. As of July 31, 1998, there were
483,197 shares of common stock reserved for the ESPP. During fiscal 1998,
employees purchased 78,025 shares under the ESPP. As of July 31, 1998, a
liability of $302,408 has been recorded for ESPP withholdings not yet applied
towards the purchase of common stock.

 Stock Option Plan

   The Company's board of directors has authorized 1,900,104 shares of the
Company's common stock for issuance in connection with a stock option plan. The
stock option plan provides for the granting of options to purchase shares of
the Company's common stock at not less than 85% of fair market value on the
date of grant. The plan is designed to allow for granting incentive stock
options, nonstatutory stock options, stock bonuses and the issuance of
restricted stock.

   At July 31, 1998, 409,166 shares had been exercised under the plan and
342,541 shares for which options were granted had terminated. Options
outstanding at July 31, 1998 expire in 1999 through 2008.

   A summary of activity in the plan follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    1998               1997              1996
                             ------------------- ----------------- ------------------
                                        Weighted          Weighted           Weighted
                                        Average           Average            Average
                                        Exercise          Exercise           Exercise
                              Options    Price   Options   Price   Options    Price
                             ---------  -------- -------  -------- --------  --------
   <S>                       <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>       <C>
   Outstanding at beginning
    of year................    872,819   $4.99   642,689   $4.06    467,502   $3.24
   Granted.................    716,500    8.80   348,500    7.13    346,500    3.83
   Exercised...............    (84,580)   4.04   (60,469)   5.18   (128,840)   0.51
   Canceled................    (64,555)   8.53   (57,901)   7.40    (42,473)   3.96
                             ---------   -----   -------   -----   --------   -----
   Outstanding at end of
    year...................  1,440,184    6.78   872,819    4.99    642,689    4.06
                             ---------   -----   -------   -----   --------   -----
   Exercisable at end of
    year...................    626,471   $4.94   461,567   $4.30    322,500   $4.19
                             =========   =====   =======   =====   ========   =====
</TABLE>

                                      F-34
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   The following table summarizes information about fixed stock options
outstanding at July 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 Options Outstanding  Options Exercisable
                                 -------------------- --------------------
                                  Weighted
                                   Average
                                  Remaining  Weighted             Weighted
        Range of       Number    Contractual Average    Number    Average
        Exercise     Outstanding  Life (in   Exercise Exercisable Exercise
         Prices      at 7/31/98    years)     Price   at 7/31/98   Price
      -------------------------- ----------- -------- ----------- --------
      <S>     <C>    <C>         <C>         <C>      <C>         <C>
      $ 0.42  $ 3.00     97,333     4.88      $ 2.07     90,997    $ 2.02
        3.72    3.72    250,000     7.21        3.72    229,166      3.72
        4.00    4.50     29,167     6.86        4.02     22,048      4.02
        5.87    5.87    151,151     8.02        5.87     72,151      5.87
        5.88    7.50    232,501     7.10        6.79    102,084      5.60
        7.87    8.00    208,803     8.72        7.95     77,715      7.92
        8.25    8.37     20,000     8.75        8.36      6,082      8.35
        9.00    9.00    302,500     9.80        9.00          0      0.00
        9.56   10.13    130,000     9.23       10.08     22,500     10.13
       10.50   10.50     18,729     9.29       10.50      3,728     10.50
      ------  ------  ---------     ----      ------    -------    ------
      $ 0.42  $10.50  1,440,184     8.11      $ 6.78    626,471    $ 4.94
      ======  ======  =========     ====      ======    =======    ======
</TABLE>

   The Company applies Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting
for Stock Issued to Employees and related interpretation in accounting for its
plan. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for its stock-
based compensation plan. Had compensation cost for the Company's stock option
plan been determined based on the fair value at the grant date for awards in
fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 consistent with the method prescribed by SFAS No.
123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, the Company's net earnings for
fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 would have been reduced by approximately $737,298,
$364,000 and $175,000, respectively. Basic and diluted earnings per share would
have been reduced by $0.10, $0.05 and $0.03 for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively. These pro forma results will not be representative of the impact
on future years because only grants made in fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 were
considered. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted
during fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996 was $8.90, $4.68 and $2.66, respectively. The
fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of the grant using the
Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted-average
assumptions for fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively: dividend yields of 0%
each year; average expected volatility of 72%, 55% and 56%; risk-free interest
rates of 5.51%, 6.75% and 6.50%; and an average expected life of 4.69 years.

Note 9--Income Taxes

   The provision for income taxes comprised the following (amounts in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Year Ended July 31,
                                                          ---------------------
                                                           1998    1997   1996
                                                          ------  ------  -----
      <S>                                                 <C>     <C>     <C>
      Current:
        Federal.......................................... $1,492  $ (330) $ 610
        State............................................    456     (85)   203
                                                          ------  ------  -----
                                                           1,948    (415)   813
                                                          ------  ------  -----
      Deferred:
        Federal..........................................   (192)  1,329   (622)
        State............................................   (241)     80    (96)
                                                          ------  ------  -----
                                                            (433)  1,409   (718)
                                                          ------  ------  -----
                                                          $1,515  $  994  $  95
                                                          ======  ======  =====
</TABLE>


                                      F-35
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)

   Deferred tax liabilities (assets) comprised the following (amounts in
thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                July 31,
                                                             ----------------
                                                              1998     1997
                                                             -------  -------
      <S>                                                    <C>      <C>
      Deferred tax liabilities:
        Inventories......................................... $ 2,674  $ 2,674
        Plant and equipment.................................   1,942    1,655
        Other...............................................     --       267
                                                             -------  -------
                                                               4,616    4,596
                                                             =======  =======
      Deferred tax liabilities:
        Accrued liabilities.................................  (1,181)    (776)
        Minimum tax credit..................................    (594)    (594)
        Other...............................................    (708)    (660)
                                                             -------  -------
                                                              (2,483)  (2,030)
                                                             =======  =======
      Net deferred tax liability............................ $ 2,133  $ 2,566
                                                             =======  =======
      The net deferred tax liability is classified as
       follows:
        Current liability................................... $   769  $ 1,884
        Noncurrent liability................................   1,364      682
                                                             -------  -------
                                                             $ 2,133  $ 2,566
                                                             =======  =======
</TABLE>

   At July 31, 1998, the Company has certain net operating loss carryforwards
which are available to reduce income taxes. These carryforwards total
approximately $6,080,000 for state income tax purposes, and expire during the
period 2010 through 2012. If certain substantial changes in the Company's
ownership should occur, there would be an annual limitation on the amount of
carryforwards which can be utilized.

   A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective
income tax rate is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Year Ended July
                                                                    31,
                                                              -----------------
                                                              1998  1997  1996
                                                              ----  ----  -----
      <S>                                                     <C>   <C>   <C>
      Statutory federal rate................................. 35.0% 35.0%  35.0%
      State income tax, net of Federal benefit...............  3.7  (0.1)  54.0
      Other, net............................................. (1.3)  3.3  (41.5)
                                                              ----  ----  -----
      Effective rate......................................... 37.4% 38.2%  47.5%
                                                              ====  ====  =====
</TABLE>

Note 10--Related Party Transactions

   Under a manufacturing services agreement which expired in fiscal 1998, the
Company provided manufacturing services to Cortelco on a turnkey basis with
prices based on cost plus 8% for telephone products and cost plus 10% for
telecommunications systems products. Included in net sales for fiscal 1998,
1997 and 1996 were sales to Cortelco totaling $26,436,000, $31,312,000 and
$38,025,000, respectively. Total cost of sales for the periods relating to
these sales to Cortelco were $24,321,000, $28,807,000 and $34,983,000,
respectively. The Company continues to provide services to Cortelco with prices
negotiated on a per contract basis.

   The Company had an agreement in 1996 with Cortelco to provide certain
products and related support services to customers of Cortelco. The Company was
required to pay a commission to Cortelco in the amount of 10% of sales of these
products under this agreement. During fiscal 1996, the Company incurred
$341,000 in commissions under this agreement.

                                      F-36
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   In July of 1998, the Company converted certain accounts receivable from
Cortelco totaling $2,000,000 into a note receivable. Under the terms of the
note, Cortelco agrees to pay the balance over a three-year term with monthly
payments of $50,000 plus interest. Interest accrues on the note at a rate of
9.0% per annum. The Company continues to provide credit for manufacturing
services sold to Cortelco in the form of trade receivables.

   The Cortelco preferred stock is nonvoting, has a liquidation preference of
$12.50 per share and entitles the Company to dividends which are non-cumulative
until August 1995 and thereafter cumulative at $.75 per share for each year in
which Cortelco earns net income of $2 million or more. The Company may, subject
to certain restrictions, require Cortelco to redeem the preferred stock, on a
pro rata basis, over a five-year period beginning August 1999. The Company
recorded the preferred stock at fair value, $5.9 million, based on the
discounted cash flow of the redemption requirements. The excess cost basis of
the net assets over the fair value of the preferred shares received was
recorded as a distribution of capital to the Company's stockholders.

   A director of the Company has an ownership interest in a customer which
purchased goods during fiscal 1996 totaling $1,731,000 at a cost of $1,697,000.
As of July 31, 1996, the Company had an accounts receivable balance of $491,000
from this customer. During 1997, the Company settled the then outstanding
balance of $441,000 with this customer through receipt of Company common stock
with a fair value of the same amount.

Note 11--Employee Benefits

 Savings Plan

   The Company maintains a profit-sharing savings plan (the "Savings Plan") for
employees of CMC Industries, Inc. Under the terms of the Savings Plan,
employees may contribute from 2% to 16% of compensation and an additional
elective amount. Effective June 30, 1994, the Company terminated matching
employee contributions. The Company may also elect to make an additional
discretionary profit-sharing contribution. Effective January 1, 1996, the
Savings plan eligibility requirements were amended to include all full-time
employees with one hour of service. The Company recorded no contributions for
fiscal 1998, 1997 and 1996.

 Retirement benefits

   The Company maintains a defined benefit pension plan (the "Pension Plan")
which covers certain hourly employees at the Mississippi division. Retirement
benefits under the Pension Plan are based on an employee's length of service
and a benefit formula based on year of hire. The benefit formula does not
include a provision for increases in further compensation levels. Contributions
to the Pension Plan are primarily based on the projected unit actuarial cost
method. The Pension Plan's assets consist principally of short-term U.S.
government instruments and pooled fixed income, debt and equity investment
funds with a financial institution. Effective June 1, 1994, the Company
terminated the future service payments for employees.

                                      F-37
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


   The following table sets forth changes in the projected benefit obligation
and changes in the fair value of Plan assets (amounts in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   July 31,
                                                                 --------------
                                                                  1998    1997
                                                                 ------  ------
      <S>                                                        <C>     <C>
      Change in projected benefit obligation
      Benefit obligation at beginning of year................... $7,238  $7,442
      Service cost..............................................    --      --
      Interest cost.............................................    612     582
      Benefits paid.............................................   (678)   (555)
      Loss due to census changes................................    540     --
      Revaluation gain..........................................    --     (231)
                                                                 ------  ------
          Benefit obligation at end of year..................... $7,712  $7,238
                                                                 ======  ======
      Change in plan assets
      Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year............ $7,375  $7,145
      Actual return on plan assets..............................    671     785
      Employer contributions....................................    513     --
      Benefits paid.............................................   (678)   (555)
                                                                 ------  ------
          Fair value of plan assets at end of year.............. $7,881  $7,375
                                                                 ------  ------
      Funded status............................................. $  169  $  137
      Unrecognized loss.........................................  1,261     878
                                                                 ------  ------
          Prepaid benefit cost.................................. $1,430  $1,015
                                                                 ======  ======
</TABLE>

   The components of net periodic pension cost and related assumptions were as
follows (amounts in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             Year Ended July
                                                                   31,
                                                            -------------------
                                                            1998   1997   1996
                                                            -----  -----  -----
      <S>                                                   <C>    <C>    <C>
      Service cost......................................... $ --   $ --   $ --
      Interest cost........................................   612    582    579
      Return on plan assets................................  (671)  (785)  (422)
                                                            -----  -----  -----
      Net amortization and deferral........................   157    270    (65)
                                                            -----  -----  -----
      Net periodic pension expense......................... $  98  $  67  $  92
                                                            =====  =====  =====
      Discount rate........................................  8.25%  8.25%  8.00%
      Long-term rate of return.............................  8.00%  8.25%  8.00%
</TABLE>

   Under FAS 87, the portion of deferred gains and losses in excess of 10% of
the projected benefit obligation is amortized as a component of net periodic
pension cost. If amortization is required, the period used is the average
remaining service period of active employees, which was approximately 13.67
years as of July 31, 1998.

                                      F-38
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)


Note 12--Net Income Per Share

   A reconciliation of basic earnings per share to diluted earnings per share
follows (in thousands, except per share data):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Year Ended
                        -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                             July 31, 1998           July 31, 1997           July 31, 1996
                        ----------------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
                                      Per-Share               Per-Share               Per-Share
                        Income Shares  Amount   Income Shares  Amount   Income Shares  Amount
                        ------ ------ --------- ------ ------ --------- ------ ------ ---------
<S>                     <C>    <C>    <C>       <C>    <C>    <C>       <C>    <C>    <C>
Basic EPS Income
 available to Common
 stockholders.......... $2,531 7,205    $0.35   $1,606 6,757    $0.24    $105  6,235    $0.02
Effect of Dilutive
 Securities Stock
 options...............    --    348      --       --    410      --      --     214      --
                        ------ -----    -----   ------ -----    -----    ----  -----    -----
Diluted EPS Income
 available to Common
 stockholders Plus
 assumed conversions... $2,531 7,553    $0.34   $1,606 7,167    $0.22    $105  6,449    $0.02
                        ====== =====    =====   ====== =====    =====    ====  =====    =====
</TABLE>

   Options to purchase 400,191 shares of the Company's common stock were
outstanding during the year ended July 31, 1998 but were not included in the
computation of diluted EPS because the exercise price was greater than the
average market price of common shares. These options were still outstanding as
of July 31, 1998.

Note 13--Restructuring Charge

   In October 1995, the Company expensed $792,000 in non-recurring charges
related to the restructuring of the Company's business. Of this amount,
$241,000 related to the relocation of the Company's corporate offices and
California operations to a new facility. The remaining amount represented one-
time charges related to severance costs resulting from a reduction in overhead
staffing at the Company's Mississippi operations. The Company reduced
employment levels to reflect the transition of the Company's business away from
hand assembly work towards more advanced surface mount technology operations.

Note 14--Commitments and Contingencies

   In connection with the restructuring of the Company in August 1993, certain
deferred income tax liabilities have been assumed by Cortelco. Although the
LIFO method of inventory accounting is employed, a portion of this deferred
income tax liability attributable to differing financial reporting and tax
reporting bases of inventories may become payable in the foreseeable future
based on certain rulings made in the U.S. federal tax courts. Although the
Company has received indemnification from this affiliate with respect to such
liability, the Company would be liable for this tax in the event Cortelco is
unable to meet its obligation. The total amount of this deferred income tax
liability assumed by Cortelco was approximately $2.2 million as of July 31,
1993.

   In fiscal 1994, the Company incurred a non-recurring charge included in
selling, general and administrative expenses of approximately $170,000 related
to the costs of environmental clean-up at a former manufacturing site. The
Company's original estimate of its cost of the clean-up was approximately
$320,000 which was recorded prior to July 1994. In fiscal 1995, an
environmental expert concluded that the cost of a full study combined with
short and long-term remediation of the site may cost between $3 and $4 million.
During fiscal 1996, the Company was excluded as a potentially responsible party
("PRP") by the State of Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation
in relation to the former facility; however, Alcatel, Inc., a PRP named by the
State of Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation and a former
owner of the Company, is seeking indemnification from the Company. Management
believes Alcatel's assertion to be without merit and has responded as such. As
of July 31, 1998, no claims have been filed by Alcatel.

                                      F-39
<PAGE>

                     CMC INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Concluded)


   In connection with the fiscal 1996 staff reduction discussed in Note 13,
certain of the terminated employees subsequently claimed that the Company had
engaged in age discrimination in their dismissal and sought damages of varying
amounts. The Company defended the actual and threatened claims vigorously
during fiscal 1998 incurring approximately $275,000 in legal costs over the
course of the year. On August 6, 1998, a judgment was rendered in the favor of
one plaintiff in the amount of $127,000 which the Company is reviewing for
possible appeal. A second plaintiff's claim for $53,000 has also been filed.
The EEOC has negotiated with the Company to reach a monetary settlement for
other potential claimants. The Company has agreed to enter into a Conciliation
Agreement with EEOC and pay approximately $500,000 to settle all such claims.

   As a result of these events and the significant ongoing costs to defend
these claims, in October 1998, the Company concluded that its interest would be
best served to settle all such matters. The Company has reserved $975,000 to
resolve all such claims which represents its best estimate of funds to
ultimately be paid to such claimants. This charge has been recorded as of July
31, 1998.

   In addition to the above, the Company is a defendant in several legal
actions involving certain matters arising in the normal course of business.
Management believes that the aggregate loss, if any, resulting from the final
outcome of these proceedings will not be material to the financial position or
results of operations of the Company. No additional accrual has been recorded
for these pending matters.

                                      F-40
<PAGE>

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                                 (In Thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         July
                                                             April 30,    31,
                          ASSETS                               1999      1998
                          ------                            ----------- -------
                                                            (Unaudited)   (*)
<S>                                                         <C>         <C>
Current assets
  Cash and cash equivalents................................  $  5,260   $ 5,281
  Accounts and notes receivable, net.......................    21,290    31,282
  Accounts and notes receivable from affiliate.............     4,712     5,678
  Inventories..............................................    30,838    20,275
  Other current assets.....................................     1,499     2,000
                                                             --------   -------
    Total current assets...................................    63,599    64,516
  Notes receivable from affiliate..........................       950     1,400
  Plant and equipment, net.................................    19,276    18,790
  Investment in preferred stock of affiliate...............     5,884     5,884
  Other assets.............................................     4,296     4,015
                                                             --------   -------
                                                             $ 94,005   $94,605
                                                             ========   =======
<CAPTION>
           LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
           ------------------------------------
<S>                                                         <C>         <C>
Current liabilities
  Notes payable under lines of credit......................  $  9,919   $18,111
  Current portion of long-term debt........................     1,647     2,146
  Accounts payable.........................................    31,227    21,365
  Other current liabilities................................     5,189     7,301
                                                             --------   -------
    Total current liabilities..............................    47,982    48,923
  Long-term debt...........................................     4,547     2,268
  Other liabilities........................................     1,364     1,469
                                                             --------   -------
    Total liabilities......................................    53,893    52,660
Stockholders' equity
  Common stock.............................................        78        76
  Additional paid-in capital...............................    36,831    36,157
  Retained earnings........................................     3,644     6,153
  Treasury stock...........................................      (441)     (441)
                                                             --------   -------
    Total stockholders' equity.............................    40,112    41,945
                                                             --------   -------
                                                             $ 94,005   $94,605
                                                             ========   =======
</TABLE>
* Condensed from audited consolidated financial statements.

      See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-41
<PAGE>

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

                  CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

                     (In thousands, except per share data)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             Three Months    Nine Months Ended
                                            Ended April 30,      April 30,
                                            ---------------- ------------------
                                             1999     1998     1999      1998
                                            -------  ------- --------  --------
                                                       (Unaudited)
<S>                                         <C>      <C>     <C>       <C>
Net sales.................................. $58,677  $58,565 $206,991  $237,612
Cost of sales..............................  56,405   54,596  200,538   222,580
                                            -------  ------- --------  --------
Gross profit...............................   2,272    3,969    6,453    15,032
Selling, general and administrative
 expenses..................................   2,907    2,731    9,354     9,012
                                            -------  ------- --------  --------
Operating income (loss)....................    (635)   1,238   (2,901)    6,020
Interest expense, net......................     280      311    1,114     1,063
                                            -------  ------- --------  --------
Income (loss) before income taxes..........    (915)     927   (4,015)    4,957
Provision (benefit) for income taxes.......    (343)     347   (1,506)    1,858
                                            -------  ------- --------  --------
Net income (loss).......................... $  (572) $   580 $ (2,509) $  3,099
                                            =======  ======= ========  ========
Net income (loss) per common share
  Basic.................................... $ (0.07) $  0.08 $  (0.33) $   0.44
  Diluted.................................. $ (0.07) $  0.08 $  (0.33) $   0.41
Weighted average shares outstanding
  Basic....................................   7,657    7,440    7,606     7,104
  Diluted..................................   7,657    7,724    7,606     7,495
</TABLE>


      See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-42
<PAGE>

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                                 (In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Nine Months
                                                              Ended April 30,
                                                              -----------------
                                                                1999     1998
                                                              --------  -------
                                                                (Unaudited)
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
  Net income (loss).......................................... $ (2,509) $ 3,099
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
   provided by operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization............................    2,603    1,629
    Change in assets and liabilities:
      Receivables............................................   11,408   (5,842)
      Inventories............................................  (10,563)   4,448
      Accounts payable.......................................    9,862   (3,207)
      Other assets and liabilities...........................   (2,216)     842
                                                              --------  -------
Net cash provided by operating activities....................    8,585      969
                                                              --------  -------
Cash flows from investing activities:
  Capital expenditures.......................................   (1,928)  (2,027)
  Payments for equipment held for sale and leaseback.........      --    (1,099)
  Deposits for facility under construction in Mexico.........      --    (2,135)
  Other......................................................      --    (1,559)
                                                              --------  -------
Net cash used in investing activities........................   (1,928)  (6,820)
                                                              --------  -------
Cash flows from financing activities:
  Borrowings under lines of credit, net......................   (8,192)   4,278
  Proceeds from long-term debt...............................    2,092      --
  Principal payments on long-term debt.......................   (1,254)  (1,268)
  Proceeds from issuance of stock............................      676    4,362
                                                              --------  -------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities..........   (6,678)   7,372
                                                              --------  -------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents.........      (21)   1,521
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period.............    5,281    4,298
                                                              --------  -------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period................... $  5,260  $ 5,819
                                                              ========  =======
</TABLE>

      See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                      F-43
<PAGE>

                             CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

        NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 1--Basis of Presentation

   The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
reflect all normal recurring adjustments which are, in the opinion of
management, necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of
operations and cash flows in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles. The results of operations for the interim periods presented are
not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
For further information, refer to the financial statements included in the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1998.

Note 2--Inventories

   The components of inventories were as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         July
                                                                April     31,
                                                               30, 1999  1998
                                                               -------- -------
   <S>                                                         <C>      <C>
   Raw materials and purchased components..................... $ 28,877 $17,868
   Work-in-process............................................      875   1,637
   Finished goods.............................................    1,086     770
                                                               -------- -------
                                                               $ 30,838 $20,275
                                                               ======== =======
</TABLE>

Note 3--Net Income Per Share

   Earnings per share ("EPS") is calculated in accordance with the Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128 "Earnings Per Share," which
requires the presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share. Basic EPS
was computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS was calculated by dividing
net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and
dilutive common stock equivalent shares outstanding during the respective
periods. Common equivalent shares consist of stock options included in the
computation of EPS using the treasury stock method. A reconciliation of basic
earnings per share to diluted earnings per share for the past three fiscal
years is shown in the following table (in thousands, except per share data):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Years Ended
                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               July 31, 1998             July 31,1997              July 31, 1996
                         ------------------------- ------------------------- -------------------------
                           Net           Per Share   Net           Per Share   Net           Per Share
                         Earnings Shares  Amount   Earnings Shares  Amount   Earnings Shares  Amount
                         -------- ------ --------- -------- ------ --------- -------- ------ ---------
<S>                      <C>      <C>    <C>       <C>      <C>    <C>       <C>      <C>    <C>
Basic EPS
Earnings available to
 Common shareholders....  $2,531  7,205    $0.35    $1,606  6,757    $0.24     $105   6,235    $0.02
Effect of Dilutive
 Securities
Stock Options...........            348                       410                       214
                                  -----                     -----                     -----
Diluted EPS
Earnings available to
 Common shareholders
 Plus assumed
                          ------           -----    ------           -----     ----            -----
 conversions............  $2,531  7,553    $0.34    $1,606  7,167    $0.22     $105   6,449    $0.02
                          ======  =====    =====    ======  =====    =====     ====   =====    =====
</TABLE>


                                     F-44
<PAGE>

                             CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

  NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(Continued)

Note 4--Subsequent Event

   On May 10, 1999, the Company entered into a definitive merger agreement
with ACT Manufacturing, Inc. ("ACT"), a provider of value-added electronics
manufacturing services for original equipment manufacturers in the networking
and telecommunications, computer, industrial and medical equipment markets.
The closing of the merger with ACT (the "Merger") is subject to the approval
of the shareholders of ACT and the Company, various regulatory approvals and
other customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the agreement, each
share of CMC common stock will be exchanged for 0.5 shares of ACT common
stock. The Merger is expected to be accounted for as a pooling of interest.

                                     F-45
<PAGE>

                                                                         Annex A


                AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER AND REORGANIZATION

                                  BY AND AMONG

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.,

                             EAST ACQUISITION CORP.

                                      and

                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.


                            Dated as of May 10, 1999

<PAGE>

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----
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 ARTICLE I--The Merger....................................................   1

    Section 1.01. The Merger.............................................    1

    Section 1.02. Effective Time.........................................    2

    Section 1.03. Effect of the Merger...................................    2

    Section 1.04. Certificate of Incorporation; By-Laws..................    2

    Section 1.05. Directors and Officers.................................    2

    Section 1.06. Effect on Capital Stock................................    2

    Section 1.07. Exchange of Certificates...............................    3

    Section 1.08. No Further Ownership Rights in WEST Common Stock.......    4

    Section 1.09. Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates.................    4

    Section 1.10. Tax and Accounting Consequences........................    5

    Section 1.11. Taking of Necessary Action; Further Action.............    5

 ARTICLE II--Representations and Warranties of West.......................   5

    Section 2.01. Organization...........................................    5

    Section 2.02. Capital Structure......................................    6

    Section 2.03. Obligations With Respect to Capital Stock..............    6

    Section 2.04. Authority..............................................    7

    Section 2.05. Section 203 of Delaware Law Not Applicable.............    8

    Section 2.06. SEC Filings; WEST Financial Statements.................    8

    Section 2.07. Absence of Certain Changes or Events...................    9

    Section 2.08. Taxes..................................................    9

    Section 2.09. Intellectual Property..................................   10

    Section 2.10. Compliance; Permits; Restrictions......................   11

    Section 2.11. Litigation.............................................   12

    Section 2.12. Brokers' and Finders' Fees.............................   12

    Section 2.13. Employee Benefit Plans.................................   12

    Section 2.14. Absence of Liens and Encumbrances; Condition of
                  Equipment..............................................   13

    Section 2.15. Environmental Matters..................................   14

    Section 2.16. Labor Matters..........................................   14

    Section 2.17. Agreements, Contracts and Commitments..................   15

    Section 2.18. Pooling of Interests...................................   15

    Section 2.19. Change of Control Payments.............................   16

    Section 2.20. Statements; Proxy Statement/Prospectus.................   16

    Section 2.21. Board Approval.........................................   16

    Section 2.22. Fairness Opinion.......................................   16

    Section 2.23. Minute Books...........................................   16

    Section 2.24. Order, Commitment and Returns..........................   16

</TABLE>


                                       i
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
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    Section 2.25. Customers..............................................   17

    Section 2.26. Suppliers..............................................   17

    Section 2.27. Inventory..............................................   17

    Section 2.28. Restrictions on Business Activities....................   17

    Section 2.29. Interested Party Transactions..........................   17

    Section 2.30. Insurance..............................................   17

    Section 2.31. Vote Required..........................................   18

    Section 2.32. Receivables............................................   18

    Section 2.33. Real Property..........................................   18

    Section 2.34. Representations Complete...............................   19

 Article III--Representations and Warranties of East and Merger Sub.......  19

    Section 3.01. Organization...........................................   19

    Section 3.02. Capital Structure......................................   19

    Section 3.03. Obligations With Respect to Capital Stock..............   20

    Section 3.04. Authority..............................................   20

    Section 3.05. SEC Filings: EAST Financial Statements.................   21

    Section 3.06. Absence of Certain Changes or Events...................   22

    Section 3.07. Taxes..................................................   22

    Section 3.08. Compliance; Permits; Restrictions......................   23

    Section 3.09. Litigation.............................................   23

    Section 3.10. Brokers' and Finders' Fees.............................   23

    Section 3.11. Absence of Liens and Encumbrances......................   23

    Section 3.12. Pooling of Interests...................................   23

    Section 3.13. Change of Control Payments.............................   23

    Section 3.14. Statements; Proxy Statements/Prospectus................   24

    Section 3.15. Board Approval.........................................   24

    Section 3.16. Fairness Opinion.......................................   24

    Section 3.17. Vote Required..........................................   24

    Section 3.18. Representations Complete...............................   24

 Article IV--Conduct of Business Pending the Merger.......................  25

    Section 4.01  Conduct of Business of WEST and EAST...................   25

    Section 4.02. Conduct of Business of WEST............................   25

    Section 4.03. Conduct of Business of EAST............................   27

    Section 4.04. No Solicitation........................................   27

 Article V--Additional Information........................................  28

                  Proxy Statement/Prospectus; Registration Statement;
    Section 5.01. Other Filings..........................................   28

    Section 5.02. Meetings of Stockholders...............................   29

</TABLE>


                                       ii
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
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                                                                     ----
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    Section 5.03. Access to Information; Confidentiality..........    29

    Section 5.04. Consents, Approvals.............................    30

    Section 5.05. Stock Options...................................    31

    Section 5.06. WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan...............    31

    Section 5.07. WEST Affiliate Agreements.......................    31

    Section 5.08. EAST Affiliate Agreements.......................    32

    Section 5.09. Indemnification and Insurance...................    32

    Section 5.10. Notification of Certain Matters.................    33

    Section 5.11. Further Action..................................    33

    Section 5.12. Public Announcements............................    33

    Section 5.13. Listing of EAST Common Stock....................    33

    Section 5.14. Conveyance Taxes................................    33

    Section 5.15. Accountants' Letters............................    34

    Section 5.16. Pooling Accounting Treatment....................    34

    Section 5.17. Pooling Letters.................................    34

    Section 5.18. Voting Agreement................................    34

    Section 5.19. Tax-Free Reorganization.........................    34

    Section 5.20. Board of Directors of EAST......................    34

    Section 5.21. Form S-8........................................    34

    Section 5.22. WEST Retirement Plans...........................    35

    Section 5.23. Past Service Credit.............................    35

 Article VI--Conditions to the Merger..............................   35

                  Conditions to Obligation of Each Party to Effect
    Section 6.01. the Merger......................................    35

                  Additional Conditions to Obligations of EAST and
    Section 6.02. Merger Sub......................................    36

    Section 6.03. Additional Conditions to Obligation of WEST.....    37

 Article VII--Termination..........................................   38

    Section 7.01. Termination.....................................    38

    Section 7.02. Notice of Termination; Effect of Termination....    39

    Section 7.03. Fees and Expenses...............................    39

 Article VIII--General Provisions..................................   40

                  Effectiveness of Representations, Warranties and
    Section 8.01. Agreements......................................    40

    Section 8.02. Notices.........................................    40

    Section 8.03. Certain Definitions.............................    41

    Section 8.04. Amendment.......................................    41

    Section 8.05. Waiver..........................................    41

    Section 8.06. Headings........................................    41

    Section 8.07. Severability....................................    41


</TABLE>

                                      iii
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
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    Section 8.08. Entire Agreement................................   42

    Section 8.09. Assignment......................................   42

    Section 8.10. Parties in interest.............................   42

                  Failure or Indulgence Not Waiver, Remedies
    Section 8.11. Cumulative......................................   42

    Section 8.12. Governing Law...................................   42

    Section 8.13. Counterparts....................................   42

    Section 8.14. Interpretation..................................   42

    Section 8.15. Rules of Construction...........................   43

        Exhibits:  Exhibit A:Form of WEST Voting Agreement
                   Exhibit B:Form of EAST Voting Agreement
                   Exhibit C:Form of WEST Affiliate Agreement
                   Exhibit D:Form of EAST Affiliate Agreement
</TABLE>

                                       iv
<PAGE>

                AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER AND REORGANIZATION

  Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization, dated as of May 10, 1999
(this "Agreement"), among ACT MANUFACTURING, INC., a Massachusetts corporation
("EAST"), EAST ACQUISITION CORP., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned
subsidiary of EAST ("Merger Sub"), and CMC INDUSTRIES, INC., a Delaware
corporation ("WEST").

                                  WITNESSETH:

  Whereas, the Boards of Directors of EAST, Merger Sub and WEST have each
determined that it is advisable and in the best interests of their respective
stockholders for EAST to enter into a business combination with WEST upon the
terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein;

  Whereas, in furtherance of such combination, the Boards of Directors of
EAST, Merger Sub and WEST have each approved the merger (the "Merger") of
Merger Sub with and into WEST in accordance with the applicable provisions of
Delaware General Corporation Law ("Delaware Law"), and upon the terms and
subject to the conditions set forth herein;

  Whereas, pursuant to the Merger, each outstanding share of WEST's common
stock, $.01 par value (the "WEST Common Stock"), shall be converted into the
right to receive the Merger Consideration (as defined in Section 1.07(b)),
upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein;

  Whereas, EAST, Merger Sub and WEST intend, by approving resolutions
authorizing this Agreement, to adopt this Agreement as a plan of
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and the regulations thereunder, and to
cause the Merger to qualify as a reorganization under the provisions of
Section 368(a) of the Code;

  Whereas, concurrently with the execution of this Agreement, and as a
condition and inducement to EAST's and WEST's willingness to enter into this
Agreement, respectively, the Chief Executive Officer of WEST and certain other
affiliates of WEST shall enter into a Voting Agreement in substantially the
form attached hereto as Exhibit A (the "WEST Voting Agreement"), and the Chief
Executive Officer of EAST shall enter into a Voting Agreement in substantially
the form attached hereto as Exhibit B (the "EAST Voting Agreement" and,
collectively with the WEST Voting Agreement, the "Voting Agreements");

  Whereas, EAST, Merger Sub and WEST desire to make certain representations
and warranties and other agreements in connection with the Merger; and

  Whereas, for accounting purposes, it is intended that the transactions
contemplated hereby shall be accounted for as a pooling of interests under
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP");

  Now, Therefore, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants
and agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby,
EAST, Merger Sub and WEST hereby agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                                  The Merger

  Section 1.01. The Merger.

  (a) Effective Time. At the Effective Time (as defined in Section 1.02), and
subject to and upon the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the
Certificate of Merger filed in connection herewith (the "Certificate of
Merger") and Delaware Law, Merger Sub shall be merged with and into WEST, the
separate corporate existence

                                      A-1
<PAGE>

of Merger Sub shall cease, and WEST shall continue as the surviving
corporation. WEST as the surviving corporation after the Merger is hereinafter
sometimes referred to as the "Surviving Corporation."

  (b) Closing. Unless this Agreement shall have been terminated pursuant to
Section 7.01 and subject to the satisfaction or waiver of each of the
conditions set forth in Article VI, the consummation of the Merger will take
place as promptly as practicable (and in any event within two business days)
after satisfaction or waiver of each of the conditions set forth in Article
VI, at the offices of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, High Street Tower, 125
High Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, unless another date, time or place
is agreed to in writing by the parties hereto.

  Section 1.02. Effective Time. As promptly as practicable after the
satisfaction or waiver of each of the conditions set forth in Article VI, the
parties hereto shall cause the Merger to be consummated by filing the
Certificate of Merger in accordance with the relevant provisions of Delaware
Law, together with any required related certificates, with the Secretary of
State of the State of Delaware, in such form as required by, and executed in
accordance with, the relevant provisions of Delaware Law (the time of such
filing being the "Effective Time").

  Section 1.03. Effect of the Merger. At the Effective Time, the effect of the
Merger shall be as provided in this Agreement, the Certificate of Merger and
the applicable provisions of Delaware Law. Without limiting the generality of
the foregoing, and subject thereto, at the Effective Time all the property,
rights, privileges, powers and franchises of WEST and Merger Sub shall vest in
the Surviving Corporation, and all debts, liabilities and duties of WEST and
Merger Sub shall become the debts, liabilities and duties of the Surviving
Corporation.

  Section 1.04. Certificate of Incorporation; By-Laws.

  (a) Certificate of Incorporation. Unless otherwise determined by EAST prior
to the Effective Time, at the Effective Time, the Certificate of Incorporation
of Merger Sub, as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall be
the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation until thereafter
amended as provided by Delaware Law and such Certificate of Incorporation;
provided, however, that the Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving
Corporation shall be amended so that the name of the Surviving Corporation is
"CMC Industries, Inc."

  (b) By-Laws. Unless otherwise determined by EAST prior to the Effective
Time, at the Effective Time, the By-Laws of Merger Sub, as in effect
immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall be the By-Laws of the Surviving
Corporation until thereafter amended as provided by Delaware Law, the
Certificate of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation and such By-Laws.

  Section 1.05. Directors and Officers. The directors of Merger Sub
immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be the initial directors of the
Surviving Corporation, each to hold office in accordance with the Certificate
of Incorporation and By-Laws of the Surviving Corporation, and the officers of
Merger Sub immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be the initial
officers of the Surviving Corporation, in each case until their respective
successors are duly elected or appointed and qualified.

  Section 1.06. Effect on Capital Stock. At the Effective Time, by virtue of
the Merger and without any action on the part of Merger Sub, WEST or the
holders of any of the following securities:

    (a) Conversion of Securities. Each share of WEST Common Stock issued and
  outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (excluding any shares
  of WEST Common Stock to be canceled pursuant to Section 1.06(b)) shall be
  converted, subject to Section 1.06(e), into the right to receive 0.50 of a
  share (the "Exchange Ratio") of validly issued, fully paid and
  nonassessable shares of common stock of EAST, $.01 par value per share
  ("EAST Common Stock").

    (b) Cancellation. Each share of WEST Common Stock held in the treasury of
  WEST and each share of WEST Common Stock owned by EAST, Merger Sub or any
  direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of WEST or EAST immediately
  prior to the Effective Time shall, by virtue of the Merger and without any

                                      A-2
<PAGE>

  action on the part of the holder thereof, cease to be outstanding, be
  canceled and retired without payment of any consideration therefor.

    (c) Stock Options; Employee Stock Purchase Plan. All options to purchase
  WEST Common Stock then outstanding under WEST's Amended and Restated 1990
  Equity Incentive Plan (the "WEST Stock Option Plan") shall be assumed by
  EAST in accordance with Section 5.05. In accordance with the terms of
  WEST's 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "WEST Employee Stock Purchase
  Plan") all rights to purchase WEST Common Stock then outstanding under the
  WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan shall terminate in accordance with
  Section 5.06 prior to the Effective Time.

    (d) Capital Stock of Merger Sub. Each share of common stock, $.01 par
  value per share, of Merger Sub issued and outstanding immediately prior to
  the Effective Time shall be converted into and exchanged for one validly
  issued, fully paid and nonassessable share of common stock, $.01 par value
  per share, of the Surviving Corporation. Each stock certificate of Merger
  Sub evidencing ownership of any such shares shall continue to evidence
  ownership of such shares of capital stock of the Surviving Corporation.

    (e) Adjustments to Exchange Ratio. The Exchange Ratio shall be adjusted
  to reflect fully the effect of any stock split, reverse split, stock
  dividend (including any dividend or distribution of securities convertible
  into EAST Common Stock or WEST Common Stock), reorganization,
  recapitalization or other like change with respect to EAST Common Stock or
  WEST Common Stock occurring after the date hereof and prior to the
  Effective Time.

    (f) Fractional Shares. No fraction of a share of EAST Common Stock will
  be issued by virtue of the Merger, but in lieu thereof each holder of WEST
  Common Stock who would otherwise be entitled to a fraction of a share of
  EAST Common Stock (after aggregating all fractional shares of EAST Common
  Stock to be received by such holder) shall receive from EAST an amount of
  cash (rounded to the nearest whole cent), without interest, equal to the
  product of (i) such fraction, multiplied by (ii) the closing price of a
  share of EAST Common Stock on the trading day immediately prior to the
  Effective Time, as reported on the Nasdaq National Market ("Nasdaq").

  Section 1.07. Exchange of Certificates.

  (a) Exchange Agent. Promptly, but in no event more than ten (10) business
days, after the Effective Time, EAST shall supply, or shall cause to be
supplied, to or for the account of a bank or trust Company designated by EAST
(the "Exchange Agent"), in trust for the benefit of the holders of WEST Common
Stock, for exchange in accordance with this Article I, through the Exchange
Agent, certificates evidencing the EAST Common Stock issuable pursuant to
Section 1.06 in exchange for outstanding shares of WEST Common Stock
immediately prior to the Effective Time.

  (b) Exchange Procedures. Promptly, but in no event more than ten (10)
business days, after the Effective Time, EAST will instruct the Exchange Agent
to mail to each holder of record of a certificate or certificates which
immediately prior to the Effective Time evidenced outstanding shares of WEST
Common Stock whose shares were converted into the right to receive shares of
EAST Common Stock pursuant to Section 1.06 (the "Certificates"), (i) a letter
of transmittal (which shall specify that delivery shall be effected, and risk
of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon receipt of the
Certificates by the Exchange Agent and shall be in such form and have such
other provisions as EAST may reasonably specify) and (ii) instructions to
effect the surrender of the Certificates in exchange for the certificates
evidencing shares of EAST Common Stock and cash in lieu of any fractional
shares. Upon surrender of a Certificate for cancellation to the Exchange Agent
or to such other agent or agents as may be appointed by EAST, together with
such letter of transmittal, duly completed and validly executed in accordance
with the instructions thereto, and such other customary documents as may be
required pursuant to such instructions, the holder of such Certificate shall
be entitled to promptly receive in exchange therefor (A) certificates
evidencing that number of whole shares of EAST Common Stock which such holder
has the right to receive pursuant to Section 1.06, (B) any dividends or other
distributions to which such holder is entitled pursuant to Section 1.07(c),
and (C) cash in lieu of fractional shares of EAST Common Stock to which such
holder is entitled pursuant to Section 1.06(f) (the EAST Common Stock,
dividends, distributions

                                      A-3
<PAGE>

and the cash described in this clause (C) being, collectively, the "Merger
Consideration"), and the Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith be
canceled. Until so surrendered, each outstanding Certificate that, prior to
the Effective Time, represented shares of WEST Common Stock will be deemed
from and after the Effective Time, for all corporate purposes, other than the
payment of dividends, to evidence the ownership of the number of full shares
of EAST Common Stock into which such shares of WEST Common Stock shall have
been so converted and the right to receive an amount in cash in lieu of the
issuance of any fractional shares in accordance with Section 1.06 and any
dividends or distributions payable pursuant to Section 1.07(c).

  (c) Distributions with Respect to Unexchanged Shares. No dividends or other
distributions with respect to EAST Common Stock with a record date after the
Effective Time shall be paid to the holder of any unsurrendered Certificate
until the holder of such Certificate shall surrender such Certificate. Subject
to applicable law, following surrender of any such Certificate, there shall be
paid to the record holder of the certificates representing whole shares of
EAST Common Stock issued in exchange therefor, without interest, at the time
of such surrender, the amount of any such dividends or other distributions
with a record date after the Effective Time theretofore payable (but for the
provisions of this Section 1.07(c)) with respect to such whole shares of EAST
Common Stock.

  (d) Transfers of Ownership. If any certificate for shares of EAST Common
Stock is to be issued in a name other than that in which the Certificate
surrendered in exchange therefor is registered, it will be a condition of the
issuance thereof that the Certificate so surrendered will be properly endorsed
and otherwise in proper form for transfer and that the person requesting such
exchange will have paid to EAST or any person designated by it any transfer or
other taxes required by reason of the issuance of a certificate for shares of
EAST Common Stock in any name other than that of the registered holder of the
Certificate surrendered, or established to the satisfaction of EAST or any
agent designated by it that such tax has been paid or is not payable.

  (e) No Liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section
1.07, none of the Exchange Agent, the Surviving Corporation or any party
hereto shall be liable to any holder of WEST Common Stock or EAST Common Stock
for any amount delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable
abandoned property, escheat or similar law.

  (f) Withholding Rights. EAST, the Surviving Corporation and the Exchange
Agent shall be entitled to deduct and withhold from the Merger Consideration
otherwise payable pursuant to this Agreement to any holder of WEST Common
Stock such amounts as EAST, the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent is
required to deduct and withhold with respect to the making of such payment
under the Code or any provision of state, local, provincial or foreign tax
law. To the extent that amounts are so withheld, such withheld amounts shall
be treated for all purposes of this Agreement as having been paid to the
holder of the shares of WEST Common Stock in respect of which such deduction
and withholding was made by EAST, the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange
Agent.

  Section 1.08. No Further Ownership Rights in WEST Common Stock. The Merger
Consideration delivered upon the surrender for exchange of shares of WEST
Common Stock in accordance with the terms hereof shall be deemed to have been
issued in full satisfaction of all rights pertaining to such shares of WEST
Common Stock. At the Effective Time, the stock transfer books of WEST shall be
closed, and there shall be no further registration of transfers of WEST Common
Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time thereafter on the
records of WEST or on the records of the Surviving Corporation. If, after the
Effective Time, Certificates are presented to the Surviving Corporation for
any reason, they shall be canceled and exchanged as provided in this Article
I.

  Section 1.09. Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates. In the event any
Certificates shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed, the Exchange Agent
shall issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificates, upon
the making of an affidavit of that fact by the holder thereof, such shares of
EAST Common Stock as may be required pursuant to Section 1.06; provided,
however, that EAST may, in its sole discretion and as a condition precedent to
the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed
Certificates to deliver a

                                      A-4
<PAGE>

bond in such sum as it may reasonably direct as indemnity against any claim
that may be made against EAST, the Surviving Corporation or the Exchange Agent
with respect to the Certificates alleged to have been lost, stolen or
destroyed.

  Section 1.10. Tax and Accounting Consequences. It is intended by the parties
hereto that the Merger shall (i) constitute a reorganization within the
meaning of Section 368 of the Code and (ii) qualify for accounting treatment
as a pooling of interests under GAAP. The parties hereto hereby adopt this
Agreement as a "plan of reorganization" within the meaning of Sections 1.368-
2(g) and 1.368-3(a) of the United States Treasury Regulations.

  Section 1.11. Taking of Necessary Action; Further Action. If, at any time
after the Effective Time, any further action is necessary or desirable to
carry out the purposes of this Agreement and to vest the Surviving Corporation
with full right, title, interest and possession in, to or under all assets,
property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of WEST and Merger Sub,
the officers and directors of WEST and Merger Sub are fully authorized in the
name of their respective corporations or otherwise to take, and will take, all
such lawful and necessary action, so long as such action is consistent with
this Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE II

                    Representations and Warranties of WEST

  When used in this Agreement with respect to WEST or any of its subsidiaries,
or EAST or any of its subsidiaries, as the case may be, the term "Material
Adverse Effect" means any change or effect that, individually or in the
aggregate, is or is reasonably likely to be materially adverse to the
business, assets (including intangible assets) and liabilities, financial
condition, properties, or results of operations of WEST and its subsidiaries
or EAST and its subsidiaries, as the case may be, in each case taken as a
whole, provided, however, that any adverse change or effect that is
proximately caused by general economic conditions or conditions affecting the
electronics manufacturing services industry generally shall not be taken into
account in determining whether there has been or is reasonably likely to be a
"Material Adverse Effect."

  In this Agreement, any reference to a party's "knowledge" means such party's
actual knowledge after reasonable inquiry of executive officers and directors
of such party, as well as such other officers and employees as is set forth in
the preamble to such party's Disclosure Schedule.

  WEST hereby represents and warrants to EAST and Merger Sub that, except as
set forth in the written disclosure schedule previously delivered by WEST to
EAST (the "WEST Disclosure Schedule"):

  Section 2.01. Organization. Each of WEST and its subsidiaries is a
corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the
laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, has the corporate power to own,
lease and operate its property and to carry on its business as now being
conducted and as currently proposed to be conducted, and is duly qualified to
do business and in good standing as a foreign corporation in each jurisdiction
in which the failure to be so qualified and in good standing could reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST. WEST has delivered to
EAST a true and complete list of all of WEST's subsidiaries, together with the
jurisdiction of incorporation of each subsidiary. WEST has delivered or made
available a true and correct copy of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation
(the "Restated Certificate") and Amended and Restated Bylaws of WEST and
similar governing instruments of its subsidiaries, each as amended to date, to
counsel for EAST. Neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of
any of the provisions of its certificate of incorporation or bylaws or
equivalent organizational documents. Other than as specified in Section 2.01
of the WEST Disclosure Schedule, WEST has no subsidiaries. Except as disclosed
in the WEST Disclosure Schedule, WEST is the owner of all outstanding shares
of capital stock of each of its subsidiaries and all such shares are duly
authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. All of the
outstanding shares of capital stock of each such subsidiary are owned by WEST
free and clear of all liens, charges, restrictions, claims or encumbrances or
rights of any nature whatsoever. There are no outstanding subscriptions,
options, warrants,

                                      A-5
<PAGE>

puts, calls, rights, exchangeable or convertible securities or other
commitments or agreements of any character relating to the issued or unissued
capital stock or other securities of any such subsidiary, or otherwise
obligating WEST or any such subsidiary to issue, transfer, sell, purchase,
redeem or otherwise acquire any such securities. Except as disclosed in the
WEST Disclosure Schedule, WEST does not directly or indirectly own of record
or beneficially any equity or similar interest in, or any interest convertible
or exchangeable or exercisable for, any equity or similar interest in, any
corporation, partnership, joint venture or other business association or
entity.

  Section 2.02. Capital Structure. The authorized capital stock of WEST
consists of 15,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, of
which there were 7,681,798 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 1999
(the "Capitalization Date") and 5,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value
$.01 per share, of which no shares were issued or outstanding as of the
Capitalization Date. Since the Capitalization Date, no shares of WEST capital
stock have been issued other than pursuant to options to acquire such shares
under the WEST Stock Option Plan or the WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan
outstanding as of the Capitalization Date and set forth in the WEST Disclosure
Schedule. All outstanding shares of WEST Common Stock are duly authorized,
validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and are not subject to
preemptive rights or rights of first refusal created by statute, the Restated
Certificate or Bylaws of WEST or any agreement or document to which WEST is a
party or by which it is bound. As of the Capitalization Date, WEST had
reserved (i) an aggregate of 1,865,617 shares of Common Stock, net of
exercises, for issuance to employees, consultants and non-employee directors
pursuant to the WEST Stock Option Plan, under which options as of the
Capitalization Date were outstanding for an aggregate of 1,577,527 shares and
no shares were subject to outstanding stock purchase rights, and (ii) 716,394
shares of Common Stock for issuance to employees pursuant to the WEST Employee
Stock Purchase Plan, of which, as of the Capitalization Date, 246,570 shares
had been issued. All shares of WEST Common Stock subject to issuance as
aforesaid, upon issuance in accordance with the terms and conditions specified
in the instruments pursuant to which they are issuable, will be duly
authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable and will not be
subject to preemptive rights or rights of first refusal created by statute,
the Restated Certificate or Bylaws of WEST or any agreement or document to
which WEST is a party or by which it is bound. Section 2.02 of the WEST
Disclosure Schedule lists as of the Capitalization Date each and every
outstanding option or other agreement to acquire shares of WEST Common Stock,
the name of the holder of such option or other agreement, the number of shares
subject to such option or other agreement, the exercise price of such option
or other agreement, the number of shares as to which such option or other
agreement will have vested at such date and whether the exercisability of such
option or other agreement will be accelerated in any way by the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement or for any other reason, and indicates the
extent of acceleration, if any. Since the Capitalization Date, WEST has not
issued or granted any option, warrant or other agreement to acquire shares of
WEST capital stock other than pursuant to the WEST Stock Option Plan or the
WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice.

  Section 2.03. Obligations With Respect to Capital Stock. Except as set forth
in Section 2.02, there are no equity securities of any class of WEST, or any
securities exchangeable or convertible into or exercisable for such equity
securities, issued, reserved for issuance or outstanding. Except for
securities WEST owns, directly or indirectly through one or more subsidiaries,
there are no equity securities of any class of any subsidiary of WEST, or any
security exchangeable or convertible into or exercisable for such equity
securities, issued, reserved for issuance or outstanding. Except as set forth
in Section 2.02, there are no options, warrants, equity securities, calls,
rights (including preemptive rights), commitments or agreements of any
character to which WEST or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which WEST
or any of its subsidiaries are bound obligating WEST or any of its
subsidiaries to issue, deliver or sell, or cause to be issued, delivered or
sold, or repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire, or cause the repurchase,
redemption or acquisition, of any shares of capital stock of WEST or any of
its subsidiaries or obligating WEST or any of its subsidiaries to grant,
extend, accelerate the vesting of, change the price of, or otherwise amend or
enter into any such option, warrant, equity security, call, right, commitment
or agreement. There are no registration rights agreements or understandings
and, to the knowledge of WEST, there are no voting trusts, proxies or other
agreements or understandings, with respect to any equity security of any class
of WEST or with respect to any equity security of any class of any of its
subsidiaries. The terms of the WEST Stock Option Plan permit the assumption or
substitution of options to purchase EAST

                                      A-6
<PAGE>

Common Stock as provided in this Agreement, without the consent or approval of
the holders of such securities, the WEST stockholders, or otherwise and
without any acceleration of the exercise schedule or vesting provisions in
effect for those options. The current "Purchase Period" (as defined in the
WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan) commenced under the WEST Employee Stock
Purchase Plan on March 1, 1999 and will end as provided in Section 5.06 of
this Agreement, and except for the purchase rights granted on such
commencement date to participants in the current Purchase Period, there are no
other purchase rights or options outstanding under the WEST Employee Stock
Purchase Plan. True and complete copies of all agreements and instruments
relating to or issued under the WEST Stock Option Plans and the WEST Employee
Stock Purchase Plan have been made available to legal counsel for EAST and
such agreements and instruments have not been amended, modified or
supplemented, and there are no agreements to amend, modify or supplement such
agreements or instruments in any case from the form made available to EAST.

  Section 2.04. Authority.

  (a) WEST has all requisite corporate power and authority to enter into this
Agreement and to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby. The
execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby have been duly authorized by all necessary
corporate action on the part of WEST, subject only to the approval of the
Merger and this Agreement by WEST's stockholders and the filing and
recordation of the Certificate of Merger pursuant to Delaware Law. This
Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by WEST and constitutes the
valid and binding obligation of WEST, enforceable in accordance with its
terms, except as enforceability may be limited by bankruptcy and other similar
laws affecting the rights and remedies of creditors generally and general
principles of equity. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by WEST
does not, and the performance of this Agreement will not, (i) conflict with or
violate the Restated Certificate or Bylaws of WEST or the equivalent
organizational documents of any of its subsidiaries, (ii) subject to obtaining
the approval of WEST's stockholders of the Merger as contemplated in Section
5.02 and compliance with the requirements set forth in Section 2.04(b) below,
conflict with or violate any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment or decree
applicable to WEST or any of its subsidiaries or by which its or any of their
respective properties or assets is bound or affected, or (iii) result in any
breach of or constitute a default (with or without notice or lapse of time or
both) under, or impair WEST's rights or alter the rights or obligations of any
third party under, or give to others any rights of termination, amendment,
acceleration or cancellation of, or result in the creation of a lien or
encumbrance on any of the properties or assets of WEST or any of its
subsidiaries pursuant to, any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, contract,
agreement, lease, license, permit, franchise, collective bargaining agreement
or other instrument or obligation to which WEST or any of its subsidiaries is
a party or by which WEST or any of its subsidiaries or its or any of their
respective properties or assets are bound or affected, except, with respect to
clauses (ii) and (iii), for any such conflicts, violations, defaults or other
occurrences that could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on WEST or the Surviving Corporation. Section 2.04 of the WEST
Disclosure Schedule lists all consents, waivers and approvals under any of
WEST's or any of its subsidiaries' agreements, contracts, licenses, leases or
other agreements or instruments required to be obtained in connection with the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, the failure to obtain
which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST
or the Surviving Corporation.

  (b) No consent, approval, order or authorization of, or registration,
declaration or filing with, any court, administrative agency or commission or
other federal, state, local or foreign or other governmental authority or
instrumentality ("Governmental Entity") is required by or with respect to WEST
or any of its subsidiaries in connection with the execution and delivery of
this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby,
except for (i) the filing of a Form S4 Registration Statement (or such other
or successor form as shall be appropriate) (the "Registration Statement") with
the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") in accordance with the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") pursuant to which
the shares of EAST Common Stock to be issued in the Merger will be registered
with the SEC, (ii) the filing of the Certificate of Merger with the Secretary
of State of the State of Delaware, (iii) the filing of the Proxy Statement (as
defined in Section 2.20) with the SEC in accordance with the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as

                                      A-7
<PAGE>

amended (the "Exchange Act"), (iv) the filing of a Current Report on Form 8K
with the SEC, (v) the filing of a Notification and Report Form for Certain
Mergers and Acquisitions with the Federal Trade Commission (the "FTC") and the
Department of Justice (the "DOJ") in accordance with the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended (the "HSR Act"), (vi) such
consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations, declarations and
filings as may be required under applicable federal and state securities laws
and the laws of any foreign country and (vii) such other consents,
authorizations, filings, approvals and registrations which, if not obtained or
made, could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on
WEST, the Surviving Corporation or EAST or have a material adverse effect on,
or materially alter or delay, the ability of the parties to consummate the
Merger.

  Section 2.05. Section 203 of Delaware Law Not Applicable. The Board of
Directors of WEST has taken all actions so that the restrictions contained in
Section 203 of the Delaware Law applicable to a "business combination" (as
defined in Section 203) will not apply to the execution, delivery or
performance of this Agreement or to the consummation of the Merger or the
other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

  Section 2.06. SEC Filings; WEST Financial Statements.

  (a) WEST has filed all forms, reports and documents required to be filed
with the SEC since December 9, 1993, and has made available to EAST such
forms, reports and documents in the form filed with the SEC and, prior to the
Effective Time, will have made available to EAST copies of any additional
forms, reports and documents filed with the SEC prior to the Effective Time.
All such required forms, reports and documents (including those that WEST may
file subsequent to the date hereof) are referred to herein collectively as the
"WEST SEC Reports." In addition, WEST has made available to EAST all exhibits
to the WEST SEC Reports filed prior to the date hereof, and will promptly make
available to EAST all exhibits to any additional WEST SEC Reports filed prior
to the Effective Time. All documents required to be filed as exhibits to the
WEST SEC Reports have been so filed, and all material contracts so filed as
exhibits are in full force and effect, except those which have expired in
accordance with their terms or whose failure to be so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST or the Surviving
Corporation, and neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries is in default
thereunder, except where any such default has not resulted in and is not
reasonably expected to result in any Material Adverse Effect on WEST. As of
their respective filing dates, the WEST SEC Reports (i) complied in all
material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act or the Exchange
Act, as the case may be, and the rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder
applicable to such WEST SEC Reports, and (ii) did not at the time they were
filed (or if amended or superseded by a filing prior to the date of this
Agreement, then on the date of such filing) contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. None of WEST's
subsidiaries is required to file any forms, reports or other documents with
the SEC.

  (b) Each of the consolidated financial statements (including, in each case,
any related notes thereto) contained in the WEST SEC Reports (the "WEST
Financials"), including any WEST SEC Reports filed after the date hereof until
the Closing, (w) were complete and correct in all material respects as of
their respective dates, (x) complied as to form in all material respects with
applicable accounting requirements and with the published rules and
regulations of the SEC with respect thereto as of their respective dates, (y)
was prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent basis throughout
the periods involved and consistent with each other (except as may be
indicated in the notes thereto or, in the case of unaudited interim financial
statements, as may be permitted by the SEC on Form 10-Q under the Exchange
Act) and (z) fairly presented the consolidated financial position of WEST and
its subsidiaries as at the respective dates thereof and the consolidated
results of its operations and cash flows for the periods indicated, except
that the unaudited interim financial statements were subject to normal and
recurring year-end adjustments which were not material in amount. There has
been no material change in WEST accounting policies except as described in the
notes to the WEST Financials. The balance sheet of WEST contained in the WEST
SEC Report for the quarter ended January 31, 1999 is hereinafter referred to
as the "WEST Balance Sheet." Neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries has any
obligations or liabilities (absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of any
nature required to be disclosed on a balance sheet

                                      A-8
<PAGE>

or in the related notes to the consolidated financial statements prepared in
accordance with GAAP which are, individually or in the aggregate, material to
the business, results of operations or financial condition of WEST and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole, except liabilities (i) provided for in the WEST
Balance Sheet, (ii) incurred since the date of the WEST Balance Sheet in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, or (iii) which
could not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a
Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

  (c) WEST has heretofore made available to EAST a complete and correct copy
of any amendments or modifications, which have not yet been filed with the SEC
but which are required to be filed, to agreements, documents or other
instruments which previously had been filed by WEST with the SEC pursuant to
the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

  Section 2.07. Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Since the date of the
WEST Balance Sheet, WEST has conducted its business in the ordinary course
consistent with past practice and there has not been: (i) any Material Adverse
Effect on WEST (whether or not covered by insurance), (ii) any material change
by WEST in its accounting methods, principles or practices, except as required
by concurrent changes in GAAP, (iii) any revaluation by WEST of any of its or
any of its subsidiaries' assets having a Material Adverse Effect on WEST,
including, without limitation, writing down the value of inventory or writing
off notes or accounts receivable other than in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice or as required by concurrent changes in GAAP;
(iv) any acquisition, sale or transfer of any material asset of WEST or any of
its subsidiaries other than in the ordinary course of business and consistent
with past practice; (v) any declaration, setting aside, or payment of a
dividend or other distribution with respect to the shares of WEST, or any
direct or indirect redemption, purchase or other acquisition by WEST of any of
its shares of capital stock; (vi) any contract entered into by WEST or any of
its subsidiaries, other than in the ordinary course of business and as made
available to EAST, or any amendment or termination of, or default under, any
contract to which WEST or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which it is
bound which could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse
Effect on WEST; or (vii) any agreement by WEST or any of its subsidiaries to
do any of the things described in the preceding clauses (i) through (vi)
(other than negotiations with EAST and its representatives regarding the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement).

  Section 2.08. Taxes. WEST and each of its subsidiaries has filed all tax
returns required to be filed by any of them and has paid (or WEST has paid on
its behalf) all taxes required to be paid (whether or not shown on such
returns), and the most recent financial statements contained in the WEST SEC
Reports reflect an adequate reserve for all taxes of WEST and its subsidiaries
accrued through the date of such financial statements. WEST is not a party to
any agreement, contract, arrangement or plan that has resulted or would
result, separately or in the aggregate, in the payment of (a) any "excess
parachute payments" within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code in
connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (without
regard to the exception in Section 280G(b)(4)) or (b) any other amount for
which a deduction would be disallowed under Section 162(m) or Section 404 of
the Code. WEST has not agreed to make any adjustment under Section 481(a) of
the Code by reason of a change in accounting method or otherwise, and WEST
will not be required to make any such adjustment as a result of the
transactions contemplated by this agreement. WEST is not and has not ever been
a "United States real property holding corporation" within the meaning of
Section 897(c)(2) of the Code. WEST has never filed a consent pursuant to
Section 341(f) of the Code (or any corresponding provision of state, local or
foreign law) relating to collapsible corporations, or agreed to have Section
341(f)(2) of the Code (or any corresponding provision of state, local or
foreign law) apply to the disposition of any asset owned by it. WEST is not
(and has not ever been) a party to a tax-sharing agreement and has not assumed
the liability of any other person for taxes. WEST has not ever been a member
of a group of corporations filing a consolidated, unitary or combined return
other than a group of which WEST is the parent. No issues have been raised
(and are currently pending) by any taxing authority in connection with any of
the returns of WEST and no deficiencies for any taxes have been proposed,
asserted or assessed against WEST or any of its subsidiaries. No waivers of
statutes of limitation with respect to any tax returns have been given by or
requested from WEST. No power of attorney has been granted by WEST, and is
currently in force, with respect to any matter relating to taxes. None of the

                                      A-9
<PAGE>

returns filed or required to be filed by WEST contains or will contain a
disclosure statement under former Section 6661 or Section 6662 of the Code or
any similar provision of any state, local or foreign law. For the purpose of
this Agreement, the term "tax" shall include all Federal, state, local and
foreign income, profits, franchise, gross receipts, payroll, sales,
employment, unemployment insurance, use, property, withholding, excise and
other taxes, duties or assessments of any nature whatsoever, together with all
interest, penalties and additions imposed with respect to such amounts.

  Section 2.09. Intellectual Property.

  (a) Definitions. For all purposes of this Agreement, the following terms
shall have the following respective meanings:

    (i) "Technology" shall mean any or all of the following: (1) works of
  authorship including, without limitation, computer programs, source code
  and executable code, whether embodied in software, firmware or otherwise,
  documentation, designs, files, records, and data; (2) inventions (whether
  or not patentable), improvements, and technology; (3) proprietary and
  confidential information, including technical data and customer and
  supplier lists, trade secrets and know-how; (4) databases, data
  compilations and collections and technical data; (5) logos, trade names,
  trade dress, trademarks, service marks, World Wide Web addresses and domain
  names, tools, methods and processes; and all instantiations of the
  foregoing in any form and embodied in any media.

    (ii) "Intellectual Property Rights" shall mean any or all of the
  following and all rights in, arising out of, or associated therewith: (1)
  all United States and foreign patents and utility models and applications
  therefor and all reissues, divisions, re-examinations, renewals,
  extensions, provisionals, continuations and continuations-in-part thereof,
  and equivalent or similar rights anywhere in the world in inventions and
  discoveries including without limitation invention disclosures ("Patents");
  (2) all trade secrets and other rights in know-how and confidential or
  proprietary information; (3) all copyrights, copyright registrations and
  applications therefor, and mask works and mask work registrations and
  applications therefor, and all other rights corresponding thereto
  throughout the world ("Copyrights"); (4) all rights in World Wide Web
  addresses and domain names and applications and registrations therefor, all
  trade names, logos, common law trademarks and service marks, trademark and
  service mark registrations and applications therefor and all goodwill
  associated therewith throughout the world ("Trademarks"); and (5) any
  similar, corresponding or equivalent rights to any of the foregoing
  anywhere in the world.

    (iii) "WEST Intellectual Property" shall mean any Technology or
  Intellectual Property Rights including the WEST Registered Intellectual
  Property Rights (as defined below) that are owned by WEST.

    (iv) "Registered Intellectual Property Rights" shall mean all United
  States, international and foreign: (1) Patents, including applications
  therefor; (2) registered Trademarks, applications to register Trademarks,
  including intent-to-use applications, or other registrations or
  applications related to Trademarks; (3) Copyrights registrations and
  applications to register Copyrights; and (4) any other Intellectual
  Property Right that is the subject of an application, certificate, filing,
  registration or other document issued by, filed with, or recorded by, any
  state, government or other public legal authority at any time.

  (b) Section 2.09(b) of the WEST Disclosure Schedule lists all Registered
Intellectual Property Rights owned by, filed in the name of, or applied for by
WEST (the "WEST Registered Intellectual Property Rights") and lists any
proceedings or actions before any court, tribunal (including the Untied States
Patent and Trademark Office (the "PTO") or equivalent authority anywhere in
the world) related to any WEST Intellectual Property Rights, including any
WEST Registered Intellectual Property Rights.

  (c) Other than inbound "shrink-wrap" and similar publicly available
commercial binary code end-user licenses, the contracts, licenses, sublicenses
and agreements of WEST set forth in Section 2.09(c) of the WEST Disclosure
Schedule include all material contracts, licenses, sublicenses and agreements
to which WEST is a party with respect to, or pursuant to which WEST is
authorized to use, any Intellectual Property Right.


                                     A-10
<PAGE>

  (d) WEST and its subsidiaries own, or have the right to use, sell or license
all Technology and Intellectual Property Rights that are used in, or necessary
or required for, the conduct of their respective businesses as presently
conducted or as currently proposed to be conducted by WEST and its
subsidiaries. The operation of the business of WEST and its subsidiaries as it
currently is conducted or is proposed to be conducted by WEST and its
subsidiaries, including but not limited to the development, use, import,
manufacture and sale of the products, technology or services of WEST and its
subsidiaries, does not infringe or misappropriate any Intellectual Property
Right of any person, and WEST has not received notice from any person claiming
that any such product, technology or service of WEST infringes or
misappropriates any Intellectual Property Right of any person (nor does WEST
have knowledge of any basis therefor).

  (e) To WEST's knowledge, no person is infringing or misappropriating any
WEST Intellectual Property Right.

  (f) WEST and its subsidiaries have taken all reasonable steps to protect
WEST's and its subsidiaries' rights in confidential information and trade
secrets of WEST and its subsidiaries or provided by any other person to WEST
or its subsidiaries. Without limiting the foregoing, WEST and its subsidiaries
have, and enforce, a policy requiring each employee, consultant and contractor
to execute a proprietary information, confidentiality and assignment
agreement, substantially in the form attached hereto as Section 2.09(f) of the
WEST Disclosure Schedule, and all current and former employees, consultants
and contractors of WEST and its subsidiaries have executed such an agreement.

  (g) WEST is not in breach of, and the execution, delivery and performance of
this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
will not constitute a breach of, (i) any contracts, licenses, sublicenses or
other agreements between WEST and any other person with respect to any
material WEST Intellectual Property or (ii) any contracts, licenses,
sublicenses or other agreements required to be listed in Section 2.09(c) of
the WEST Disclosure Schedule, and to the knowledge of WEST, there is not any
dispute regarding the scope of any such agreement, or performance under any
such agreement including with respect to any payments to be made or received
by WEST thereunder. Neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries has entered into
any agreement to indemnify any other person against any charge of infringement
of any Intellectual Property Right, other than agreements in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice.

  Section 2.10. Compliance; Permits; Restrictions.

  (a) Neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries is in conflict with, or in
default or violation of (or have taken or failed to take any action which with
notice or lapse of time or both would become a default or violation), or
received notice of a violation of, (i) any law, rule, regulation, order,
judgment or decree applicable to WEST or any of its subsidiaries or by which
its or any of their respective properties or assets is bound or affected, or
(ii) any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, collective bargaining agreement,
contract, agreement, lease, license, permit, franchise or other instrument or
obligation to which WEST or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which
WEST or any of its subsidiaries or its or any of their respective properties
or assets is bound or affected, except for any conflicts, defaults or
violations which could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on WEST. No investigation or review by any governmental or regulatory
body or authority is pending or, to WEST's knowledge, threatened against WEST
or its subsidiaries, nor has any governmental or regulatory body or authority
indicated an intention to conduct the same, other than, in each such case,
those the outcome of which could not reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect on WEST. All leases of real property to which WEST is a party
are in good standing and are valid, binding and enforceable in accordance with
their respective terms. There does not exist a default (nor has an event
occurred which with notice or lapse of time or both would become a default) on
the part of the landlord under any such leases, except as could not reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

  (b) WEST and its subsidiaries hold all consents, permits, licenses,
variances, exemptions, orders and approvals from governmental authorities
which are material to the operation of the business of WEST and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole (collectively, the "WEST Permits") and all of
such WEST Permits are in full force

                                     A-11
<PAGE>

and effect. WEST and its subsidiaries are in compliance with the terms of the
WEST Permits, except where the failure to so comply could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

  Section 2.11. Litigation. There is no action, suit, proceeding, claim,
arbitration or investigation pending, or to WEST's knowledge, threatened,
before any agency, court, tribunal or Governmental Entity, foreign or
domestic, against WEST or any of its subsidiaries which could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST, or which in any manner
challenges or seeks to prevent, enjoin, alter or delay any of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. Nor has WEST or any of its subsidiaries
received any notice or assertion of such an action, suit, proceeding, claim,
arbitration or investigation.

  Section 2.12. Brokers' and Finders' Fees. Except for fees payable to
BancBoston Robertson Stephens pursuant to the engagement letter dated February
22, 1999, WEST has not incurred, nor will it incur, directly or indirectly,
any liability for brokerage or finders' fees or agents' commissions or
investment bankers' fees or any similar charges in connection with this
Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby.

  Section 2.13. Employee Benefit Plans.

  (a) Section 2.13 of the WEST Disclosure Schedule lists, with respect to
WEST, any subsidiary of WEST and any trade or business (whether or not
incorporated) which is treated as a single employer with WEST (an "ERISA
Affiliate") within the meaning of Section 414(b), (c), (m) or (o) of the Code,
(i) all employee benefit plans (as defined in Section 3(3) of the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA")) whether or not
such plans are subject to ERISA, (ii) each loan to a non-officer employee in
excess of $10,000, loans to officers and directors and any stock option, stock
purchase, phantom stock, and stock appreciation right, (iii) all supplemental
retirement, severance, sabbatical, medical, dental, vision care, disability,
employee relocation, cafeteria benefit (Code Section 125) or dependent care
(Code Section 129), life insurance or accident insurance, bonus, pension,
profit sharing, savings, deferred compensation or incentive plans, programs or
arrangements which are not employee benefit plans as otherwise covered under
clause (i) above, (iv) other fringe or employee benefit plans, programs or
arrangements that apply to senior management or overseas employees of WEST and
that do not generally apply to all employees, and (v) any current or former
employment or executive compensation or severance agreements (other than
pursuant to the WEST Stock Option Plan), written or otherwise, as to which
unsatisfied or potential obligations of WEST of greater than $100,000 exist
for the benefit of, or relating to, any present or former employee, consultant
or director of WEST (together, the "WEST Employee Plans").

  (b) WEST has furnished to EAST a copy of each of the WEST Employee Plans and
related plan documents (including trust documents, insurance policies or
contracts) and has, with respect to each WEST Employee Plan which is subject
to ERISA reporting requirements, provided copies of the Form 5500 reports
filed for the last three plan years. Any WEST Employee Plan intended to be
qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code has either obtained from the
Internal Revenue Service a favorable determination letter as to its qualified
status under the Code, including all amendments to the Code effected by the
Tax Reform Act of 1986 and subsequent legislation, or has applied to the
Internal Revenue Service for such a determination letter prior to the
expiration of the remedial amendment period under applicable Treasury
Regulations or Internal Revenue Service pronouncements in which to apply for
such determination letter and to make any amendments necessary to obtain a
favorable determination. WEST has also furnished EAST with the most recent
Internal Revenue Service determination letter issued with respect to each such
WEST Employee Plan, and nothing has occurred since the issuance of each such
letter which could reasonably be expected to cause the loss of the tax-
qualified status of any WEST Employee Plan subject to Code Section 401(a).

  (c) (i) Other than continued health care coverage required under the
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended ("COBRA"),
none of the WEST Employee Plans promises or provides retiree medical or other
retiree welfare benefits to any person; (ii) there has been no "prohibited
transaction," as such term is defined in Section 406 of ERISA and Section 4975
of the Code, with respect to any WEST Employee Plan; (iii) each WEST Employee
Plan has been administered in accordance with its terms and in

                                     A-12
<PAGE>

compliance with the requirements prescribed by any and all statutes, rules and
regulations (including ERISA and the Code), except as could not reasonably be
expected to have, in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on WEST, and
WEST and each subsidiary or ERISA Affiliate have performed all obligations
required to be performed by them under, are not in any respect in default
under or violation of, and have no knowledge of any default or violation by
any other party to, any of the WEST Employee Plans, which default or violation
could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST; (iv)
neither WEST nor any subsidiary or ERISA Affiliate is subject to any liability
or penalty under Sections 4976 through 4980 of the Code or Title I of ERISA
with respect to any of the WEST Employee Plans; (v) all material contributions
required to be made by WEST or any subsidiary or ERISA Affiliate to any WEST
Employee Plan have been made on or before their due dates and a reasonable
amount has been accrued for contributions to each WEST Employee Plan for the
current plan years; (vi) with respect to each WEST Employee Plan, no
"reportable event" within the meaning of Section 4043 of ERISA (excluding any
such event for which the thirty (30) day notice requirement has been waived
under the regulations to Section 4043 of ERISA) nor any event described in
Section 4062, 4063 or 4041 or ERISA has occurred; (vii) no WEST Employee Plan
is covered by, and neither WEST nor any subsidiary or ERISA Affiliate has
incurred or expects to incur any liability under Title IV of ERISA or Section
412 of the Code, (viii) the Hourly Pension Plan for employees of ITT Telecom
Products Corporation (now known as WEST) at Corinth (the "Hourly Pension
Plan") is fully funded on a fully vested, plan termination basis, and (ix) the
percentage of Hourly Pension Plan assets invested in employer stock has never
exceeded 10 percent. With respect to each WEST Employee Plan subject to ERISA
as either an employee pension plan within the meaning of Section 3(2) of ERISA
or an employee welfare benefit plan within the meaning of Section 3(1) of
ERISA, WEST has prepared in good faith and timely filed all requisite
governmental reports (which were true and correct as of the date filed) and
WEST has properly and timely filed and distributed or posted all notices and
reports to employees required to be filed, distributed or posted with respect
to each such WEST Employee Plan, except in each case to the extent that such
failure to perform such action could not, in the aggregate, reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST. Other than routine claims
for benefits, no suit, administrative proceeding, action or other litigation
has been brought, or to the best knowledge of WEST is threatened, against or
with respect to any such WEST Employee Plan, including any audit or inquiry by
the IRS or United States Department of Labor. Neither WEST nor any WEST
subsidiary or other ERISA Affiliate is a party to, or has made any
contribution to or otherwise incurred any obligation under, any "multiemployer
plan" as defined in Section 3(37) of ERISA.

  (d) With respect to each WEST Employee Plan, WEST and each of its
subsidiaries have complied in all material respects with (i) the applicable
health care continuation and notice provisions of COBRA and the proposed
regulations thereunder and (ii) the applicable requirements of the Family
Leave Act of 1993 and the regulations thereunder.

  (e) The consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement will
not (i) entitle any current or former employee or other service provider of
WEST, any WEST subsidiary or any other ERISA Affiliate to severance benefits
or any other payment, except as expressly provided in this Agreement, or (ii)
accelerate the time of payment or vesting, or increase the amount of
compensation due to any such employee or service provider.

  (f) There has been no amendment to, written interpretation or announcement
(whether or not written) by WEST, any WEST subsidiary or other ERISA Affiliate
relating to, or change in participation or coverage under, any WEST Employee
Plan which would materially increase the expense of maintaining such Plan
above the level of expense incurred with respect to that Plan for the most
recent fiscal year included in WEST's financial statements.

  Section 2.14. Absence of Liens and Encumbrances; Condition of
Equipment. WEST and each of its subsidiaries has good and valid title to, or,
in the case of leased properties and assets, valid leasehold interests in, all
of its material tangible properties and assets, real, personal and mixed, used
in its business, free and clear of any mortgages, liens, pledges, charges or
encumbrances of any kind or character, except (i) as reflected in the WEST
Financials, (ii) for liens for property taxes not yet due and payable and
(iii) such imperfections of title

                                     A-13
<PAGE>

and encumbrances, if any, which have not and could not reasonably be expected
to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST. The plants, properties and
equipment of WEST and its subsidiaries that are used in the operation of their
businesses are in good operating condition and repair in all material
respects. All properties used in the operations of WEST and its subsidiaries
are reflected in the WEST Balance Sheet to the extent required by GAAP.
Section 2.14 of the WEST Disclosure Schedule identifies each parcel of real
property owned or leased by WEST or any of its subsidiaries and the material
terms of any such leases.

  Section 2.15. Environmental Matters.

  (a) Hazardous Material. Except as could not reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on WEST, no underground storage tanks and no amount of
any substance that has been designated by any Governmental Entity or by
applicable federal, state or local law, to be radioactive, toxic, hazardous or
otherwise a danger to health or the environment, including, without
limitation, PCBs, asbestos, petroleum, urea-formaldehyde and all substances
listed as hazardous substances pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended, or defined as a
hazardous waste pursuant to the United States Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act of 1976, as amended, and the regulations promulgated pursuant to
said laws, (a "Hazardous Material"), but excluding office and janitorial
supplies, are present, as a result of the actions of WEST or any of its
subsidiaries, or, to WEST's knowledge, as a result of any actions of any third
party or otherwise, in, on or under any property, including the land and the
improvements, ground water and surface water thereof, that WEST or any of its
subsidiaries has at any time owned, operated, occupied or leased.

  (b) Hazardous Material Activities. Except as could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST, neither WEST nor any of
its subsidiaries has transported, stored, used, manufactured, disposed of,
released or exposed its employees or others to Hazardous Materials in
violation of any law in effect on or before the Closing Date, nor has WEST or
any of its subsidiaries disposed of, transported, sold, or manufactured any
product containing a Hazardous Material (collectively "Hazardous Material
Activities") in violation of any rule, regulation, treaty or statute
promulgated by any Governmental Entity in effect prior to or as of the date
hereof to prohibit, regulate or control Hazardous Materials or any Hazardous
Material Activity.

  (c) Permits. WEST and its subsidiaries currently hold all environmental
approvals, permits, licenses, clearances and consents (the "WEST Environmental
Permits") necessary for the conduct of WEST's and its subsidiaries' Hazardous
Material Activities and other businesses of WEST and its subsidiaries as such
activities and businesses are currently being conducted, except where the
failure to so hold could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on WEST, and are in compliance in all material respects with all terms
and conditions thereof.

  (d) Environmental Liabilities. No action, proceeding, revocation proceeding,
amendment procedure, writ, injunction or claim is pending, or to WEST's
knowledge, threatened concerning any WEST Environmental Permit, Hazardous
Material or any Hazardous Material Activity of WEST or any of its
subsidiaries. WEST is not aware of, and has not received notice of, any fact
or circumstance which could involve WEST or any of its subsidiaries in any
environmental litigation, impose upon WEST or any of its subsidiaries any
environmental liability that could reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect on WEST, or which could reasonably be expected to interfere
with or prevent continued compliance with the WEST Environmental Permits or
any rule, code, regulation, law, order, injunction or decree relating to any
Hazardous Material or Hazardous Material Activity.

  Section 2.16. Labor Matters. Except as set forth in Section 2.16 of the WEST
Disclosure Schedule, none of WEST's or its subsidiaries' employees are
unionized and, to WEST's knowledge, there are no activities or proceedings of
any labor union to organize any employees of WEST or any of its subsidiaries.
There are, and have been, no strikes, or material slowdowns, work stoppages or
lockouts, or threats thereof, by or with respect to any employees of WEST or
any of its subsidiaries. WEST and its subsidiaries are and have been in
compliance

                                     A-14
<PAGE>

with all applicable laws regarding employment practices, terms and conditions
of employment, and wages and hours (including, without limitation, ERISA, WARN
or any similar state or local law).

  Section 2.17. Agreements, Contracts and Commitments. Except as set forth in
Section 2.17 of the WEST Disclosure Schedule, neither WEST nor any of its
subsidiaries is a party to or is bound by, whether written or oral:

    (a) any collective bargaining agreements;

    (b) any bonus, deferred compensation, incentive compensation, pension,
  profit-sharing or retirement plans, or any other employee benefit plans or
  arrangements;

    (c) any employment or consulting agreement, contract or commitment with
  any officer or director level employee, not terminable by WEST or any of
  its subsidiaries on thirty (30) days notice without liability;

    (d) any agreement or plan, including, without limitation, any stock
  option plan, stock appreciation right plan or stock purchase plan, any of
  the benefits of which will be increased, or the vesting of benefits of
  which will be accelerated, by the occurrence of any of the transactions
  contemplated by this Agreement or the value of any of the benefits of which
  will be calculated on the basis of any of the transactions contemplated by
  this Agreement;

    (e) any agreement of indemnification or guaranty not entered into in the
  ordinary course of business;

    (f) any agreement, contract or commitment containing any covenant
  limiting the freedom of WEST or any of its subsidiaries to engage in any
  line of business, compete with any person or do business in any geographic
  area;

    (g) any agreement, contract or commitment relating to capital
  expenditures and involving future obligations in excess of $100,000 and not
  cancelable;

    (h) any agreement, contract or commitment currently in force relating to
  the disposition or acquisition of assets not in the ordinary course of
  business or any ownership interest in any corporation, partnership, joint
  venture or other business enterprise;

    (i) any mortgages, capital leases, indentures, loans or credit
  agreements, security agreements or other agreements or instruments relating
  to the borrowing of money or extension of credit, other than any such
  agreements and instruments entered into after the date hereof in the
  ordinary course of business consistent with past practice; or

    (j) any other agreement, contract or commitment (excluding real and
  personal property leases) which involve payment by WEST or any of its
  subsidiaries under any such agreement, contract or commitment of $100,000
  or more in the aggregate which is not cancelable without penalty within
  thirty (30) days, other than any such agreements and instruments entered
  into after the date hereof in the ordinary course of business consistent
  with past practice.

  Neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries, nor to WEST's knowledge, any other
party to a WEST Contract (as defined below), has breached, violated or
defaulted under, or received notice that it has breached, violated or
defaulted under, any of the terms or conditions of any of the agreements,
contracts or commitments to which WEST or any of its subsidiaries is a party
or by which any of them is bound of the type described in clauses (a) through
(j) above (any such agreement, contract or commitment, a "WEST Contract") in
such manner as would permit any other party to cancel or terminate any such
WEST Contract, or would permit any other party to seek damages, which could
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

  Section 2.18. Pooling of Interests. To the knowledge of WEST, based on
consultation with its independent accountants, neither WEST nor any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any of their respective directors, officers or
stockholders has taken or agreed to take any action which would interfere with
EAST's ability to account for the Merger as a pooling of interests or would
prevent the Merger from constituting a transaction qualifying as a
reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Code. To WEST's knowledge, there
are

                                     A-15
<PAGE>

no agreements, plans or other circumstances relating to WEST or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates that would prevent the Merger from qualifying under
Section 368(a) of the Code.

  Section 2.19. Change of Control Payments. Neither the execution and delivery
of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
will (i) result in any payment (including, without limitation, severance,
unemployment compensation, golden parachutes, bonus or otherwise) becoming due
to any officer, director or employee of WEST or any of its subsidiaries, (ii)
increase any benefits otherwise payable by WEST or any of its subsidiaries or
(iii) result in the acceleration of the time of payment or vesting of any such
benefits.

  Section 2.20. Statements; Proxy Statement/Prospectus. The information
supplied by WEST for inclusion in the Registration Statement shall not at the
time the Registration Statement (including any amendments or supplements
thereto) is filed with the SEC and at the time it becomes effective under the
Securities Act, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to
state any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to
make the statements therein not misleading in light of the circumstances under
which they were made. The information supplied by WEST for inclusion in the
proxy statement/prospectus to be sent to the stockholders of WEST and the
stockholders of EAST in connection with the meeting of WEST's stockholders to
consider the approval of this Agreement and the Merger (the "WEST
Stockholders' Meeting") and in connection with the meeting of EAST's
stockholders to consider the approval of this Agreement and the Merger and the
issuance of shares of EAST Common Stock pursuant to the terms of the Merger
(the "EAST Stockholders' Meeting") (such proxy statement/prospectus as amended
or supplemented is referred to herein as the "Proxy Statement") shall not, on
the date the Proxy Statement is first mailed to WEST's stockholders and EAST's
stockholders, at the time of the WEST Stockholders' Meeting and the EAST
Stockholders' Meeting and at the Effective Time, contain any untrue statement
of a material fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated
therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not false or misleading; or omit to
state any material fact necessary to correct any statement in any earlier
communication with respect to the solicitation of proxies for the WEST
Stockholders' Meeting or the EAST Stockholders' Meeting which has become false
or misleading. The Proxy Statement will comply as to form in all material
respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations
thereunder. If at any time prior to the Effective Time, any event or
information should be discovered by WEST which should be set forth in an
amendment to the Registration Statement or a supplement to the Proxy
Statement, WEST shall promptly inform EAST. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
WEST makes no representation or warranty with respect to any information
supplied by EAST or Merger Sub which is contained in any of the foregoing
documents.

  Section 2.21. Board Approval. The Board of Directors of WEST has, as of the
date of this Agreement, unanimously (i) approved this Agreement and the
Merger, (ii) determined that the Merger is fair to, and in the best interests
of WEST and its stockholders, and (iii) determined to recommend that the
stockholders of WEST approve this Agreement and the consummation of the
Merger.

  Section 2.22. Fairness Opinion. WEST has received an opinion from BancBoston
Robertson Stephens, dated as of the date hereof, to the effect that as of the
date hereof, the Exchange Ratio is fair to WEST's stockholders from a
financial point of view and promptly after a written copy of such opinion is
delivered to WEST, WEST will deliver to EAST a copy of such opinion.

  Section 2.23. Minute Books. The minute books of WEST and its subsidiaries
made available to counsel for EAST are the only minute books of WEST and
contain a reasonable record, in all material respects, of all meetings of
directors (or committees thereof) and stockholders or actions by written
consent since 1993 of WEST.

  Section 2.24. Order, Commitment and Returns. The aggregate of all accepted
and unfilled orders for the sale of merchandise entered into by WEST or any of
its subsidiaries does not exceed an amount which can reasonably be expected to
be filled in the ordinary course of business on a schedule which will maintain
satisfactory customer relationships, and the aggregate of all contracts or
commitments for the purchase of

                                     A-16
<PAGE>

products by WEST and all of its subsidiaries does not exceed an amount which
is reasonable for the anticipated volumes of their businesses (all of which
orders, contracts and commitments were made in the ordinary course of
business). There are no asserted claims to return merchandise of WEST or any
of its subsidiaries by reason of alleged overshipments, defective merchandise,
breach of warranty or otherwise except for normal returns in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice. Except as could not
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST or the
Surviving Corporation, WEST does not know or have reason to believe that
either the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby will result in any cancellations or
withdrawals of accepted and unfilled orders for the sale of merchandise.

  Section 2.25. Customers. Except as could not reasonably be expected to have,
individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on WEST or the
Surviving Corporation, neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries has received
any notice from any customer that such customer will not continue as a
customer of WEST, such subsidiary, Merger Sub or EAST after the Effective Time
or that any such customer intends to terminate or materially modify any
contract, purchase order or other commitment for the purchase of goods such
customer may have with WEST or such subsidiary.

  Section 2.26. Suppliers. Except as could not reasonably be expected to have,
individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect on WEST or the
Surviving Corporation, neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries has received
any notice from any supplier to WEST or its subsidiaries that such supplier
will not continue as a supplier of WEST, such subsidiary, Merger Sub or EAST
after the Effective Time or that any such supplier intends to terminate or
materially modify any contract, supply order or other commitment for the sale
of goods such supplier may have with WEST or such subsidiary.

  Section 2.27. Inventory. The inventory set forth in the WEST Balance Sheet
were properly stated therein at the lesser of cost or fair market value
determined in accordance with GAAP consistently maintained and applied by
WEST. All of WEST's and its subsidiaries' inventory is owned free and clear of
all liens, charges, restrictions, claims or encumbrances. WEST's and its
subsidiaries' inventory is of good and merchantable quality and is useable and
salable in the ordinary course of WEST's and its subsidiaries' businesses
consistent with past practice, except for items of obsolete materials and
materials of below standard quality, all of which have been written down to
realizable market value or for which adequate reserves have been provided, as
of the date hereof, in the WEST Balance Sheet and, following the date hereof,
in the WEST Balance Sheet or otherwise in the WEST SEC Reports, in each case,
in a manner consistent with past practice.

  Section 2.28. Restrictions on Business Activities. There is no agreement,
judgment, injunction, order or decree binding upon WEST or any of its
subsidiaries which has the effect of prohibiting or materially impairing any
current or future business practice of WEST or any of its subsidiaries, any
acquisition of property by WEST or any of its subsidiaries or the conduct of
business by WEST or any of its subsidiaries as currently conducted, or as
currently proposed to be conducted, by WEST or any of its subsidiaries.

  Section 2.29. Interested Party Transactions. Except as disclosed in the WEST
SEC Reports, neither WEST nor any of its subsidiaries is indebted to any
director, officer, employee or agent of WEST or any of its subsidiaries
(except for amounts due as normal salaries and bonuses and in reimbursement of
ordinary expenses), and no such person is indebted to WEST or any of its
subsidiaries, and there have been no other transactions of the type required
to be disclosed pursuant to Items 402(h) and 404 of Regulation S-K under the
Securities Act and the Exchange Act since July 31, 1998.

  Section 2.30. Insurance. WEST and each of its subsidiaries have policies of
insurance and bonds of the type and in amounts customarily carried by persons
conducting businesses or owning assets similar to those of WEST and its
subsidiaries. There is no claim pending under any of such policies or bonds as
to which coverage has been questioned, denied or disputed by the underwriters
of such policies or bonds. All premiums due and payable under all such
policies and bonds have been paid and WEST and its subsidiaries are otherwise
in compliance in all material respects with terms of such policies and bonds.
WEST has no knowledge of any threatened termination of, or premium increase
with respect to, any of such policies.

                                     A-17
<PAGE>

  Section 2.31. Vote Required. The affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of the shares of WEST Common Stock outstanding on the record date set
for the WEST Stockholders' Meeting is the only vote of the holders of any of
WEST's capital stock necessary to approve this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby.

  Section 2.32. Receivables. All accounts, notes receivable and other
receivables (other than receivables collected since the date of the WEST
Balance Sheet) reflected on the WEST Balance Sheet are, and all accounts and
notes receivable arising from or otherwise relating to the business of WEST
and its subsidiaries at the Closing Date will be, valid, genuine and fully
collectible in the aggregate amount thereof, subject to normal and customary
trade discounts, less, as of the date hereof, any reserves for doubtful
accounts recorded on the WEST Balance Sheet and, following the date hereof,
any reserves for doubtful accounts recorded on the WEST Balance Sheet or
otherwise in the WEST SEC Reports. All accounts, notes receivable and other
receivables arising out of or relating to the business of WEST and its
subsidiaries at the date of the WEST Balance Sheet have been included in the
WEST Balance Sheet in accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent basis.

  Section 2.33. Real Property.

  (a) WEST has good, marketable and clear record, indefeasible, fee simple
title to the real property, including all easements, rights of way,
privileges, licenses and other rights benefiting or appurtenant thereto
described on Section 2.33 of the WEST Disclose Schedule (the "Real Property").
Section 2.33 of the WEST Disclose Schedule also describes and lists any
mortgage, lien, pledge, charge, reservation, restriction, restrictive
covenant, limitation, condition of record, right of first refusal, option to
purchase, lease, security interest, defect in title, easement, or encumbrance
of any kind with respect to the Real Property (collectively, "Liens"). There
are no Liens that interfere with the use or maintenance of the Real Property
or the buildings, structures and improvements thereon, or which would require
the removal of an existing building, structure or improvement on the Real
Property, except those that could not reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

  (b) The buildings, structures and all other improvements on the Real
Property and owned or leased by WEST under the leases described in Section
2.33 of the WEST Disclosure Schedule have no material defects, are in good
operating condition and repair and have been reasonably maintained consistent
with standards generally followed in the industry (giving due account to the
age and length of use of same, ordinary wear and tear excepted), are suitable
for their present uses, are structurally sound (including without limitation
the roofs thereof) and have been constructed and are currently in compliance
with all applicable laws, codes, ordinances, rules, regulations and permits,
except as could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect
on WEST.

  (c) None of the buildings, structures or improvements on the Real Property
encroach upon property of another person or entity, and no structure of any
other person and/or entity encroaches upon any portion of the Real Property.

  (d) There are no condemnation or eminent domain proceedings or proceedings
similar thereto pending or, to the best of WEST's knowledge, proposed or
threatened against all or any part of the Real Property.

  (e) All of the Real Property including, but not limited to, driveways,
fences, subsurface sewage disposal systems and parking areas on the Real
Property are located in all material respects within the boundary lines of the
Real Property and do not encroach upon or under the property of any other
person or entity.

  (f) The Real Property and the present use thereof are not in violation of or
out of conformity with (i) any applicable land use laws, statutes, ordinances,
rules, regulations or permits or orders of any local, state, federal or
foreign authorities or any other governmental entity having jurisdiction over
the Real Property or (ii) any Liens affecting the Real Property, except as
could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

                                     A-18
<PAGE>

  Section 2.34. Representations Complete. None of the representations or
warranties made by WEST herein or in any Schedule hereto, including the WEST
Disclosure Schedule, or certificates furnished by WEST pursuant to this
Agreement, or the WEST SEC Reports, when all such documents are read together
in their entirety, contains or will contain at the Effective Time any untrue
statement of a material fact, or omits or will omit at the Effective Time to
state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained
herein or therein, in the light of the circumstances under which made, not
misleading.

                                  ARTICLE III

             Representations and Warranties of EAST and Merger Sub

  EAST and Merger Sub hereby, jointly and severally, represent and warrant to
WEST that, except as set forth in the written disclosure schedule previously
delivered by EAST to WEST (the "EAST Disclosure Schedule"):

  Section 3.01. Organization. Each of EAST and its subsidiaries is a
corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the
laws of the jurisdiction of its organization, has the corporate power to own,
lease and operate its property and to carry on its business as now being
conducted and as currently proposed to be conducted, and is duly qualified to
do business and in good standing as a foreign corporation in each jurisdiction
in which the failure to be so qualified and in good standing could reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST. EAST has delivered to
WEST a true and complete list of all of EAST's subsidiaries, together with the
jurisdiction of incorporation of each subsidiary. EAST has delivered or made
available a true and correct copy of the Restated Articles of Organization
("Restated Articles") and Amended and Restated Bylaws of EAST and similar
governing instruments of its subsidiaries, each as amended to date, to counsel
for WEST. Neither EAST nor any of its subsidiaries is in violation of any of
the provisions of its articles of organization or bylaws or equivalent
organizational documents. Other than as specified in the EAST Disclosure
Schedule, EAST has no subsidiaries. EAST is the owner of all outstanding
shares of capital stock of each of its subsidiaries and all such shares are
duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. All of the
outstanding shares of capital stock of each such subsidiary are owned by EAST
free and clear of all liens, charges, restrictions, claims or encumbrances or
rights of any nature whatsoever. There are no outstanding subscriptions,
options, warrants, puts, calls, rights, exchangeable or convertible securities
or other commitments or agreements of any character relating to the issued or
unissued capital stock or other securities of any such subsidiary, or
otherwise obligating EAST or any such subsidiary to issue, transfer, sell,
purchase, redeem or otherwise acquire any such securities. Except as disclosed
in the EAST Disclosure Schedule, EAST does not directly or indirectly own of
record or beneficially any equity or similar interest in, or any interest
convertible or exchangeable or exercisable for, any equity or similar interest
in, any corporation, partnership, joint venture or other business association
or entity.

  Section 3.02. Capital Structure. The authorized capital stock of EAST
consists of 30,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $.01 per share, of
which there were 9,092,146 shares issued and outstanding as of the
Capitalization Date and 5,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value $.01
per share, of which no shares were issued or outstanding as of the
Capitalization Date. The authorized capital stock of Merger Sub consists of
1,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, all of which, as of
the Capitalization Date, were issued and outstanding and held by EAST. All
outstanding shares of the Common Stock of EAST and Merger Sub are duly
authorized, validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable and are not subject
to preemptive rights or rights of first refusal created by statute, the
Restated Articles or Bylaws of EAST or any agreement or document to which EAST
is a party or by which it is bound. As of the Capitalization Date, EAST had
reserved an aggregate of 2,040,664 shares of Common Stock, for issuance to
employees, consultants and non-employee directors pursuant to EAST's 1993
Incentive Stock Option Plan, 1995 Stock Plan and 1995 Non-Employee Director
Stock Option Plan, (collectively, the "EAST Stock Option Plans"), under which
options as of the Capitalization Date were outstanding for an aggregate of
1,207,364 shares. All shares of the Common Stock of EAST subject to issuance
as aforesaid, upon issuance in accordance with the terms and conditions
specified in the instruments pursuant to

                                     A-19
<PAGE>

which they are issuable, will be duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid
and nonassessable and will not be subject to preemptive rights or rights of
first refusal created by statute, the Restated Articles or Bylaws of EAST or
any agreement or document to which EAST is a party or by which it is bound.

  Section 3.03. Obligations With Respect to Capital Stock. Except as set forth
in Section 3.02, there are no equity securities of any class of EAST, or any
securities exchangeable or convertible into or exercisable for such equity
securities, issued, reserved for issuance or outstanding as of the
Capitalization Date. Except for securities EAST owns, directly or indirectly
through one or more subsidiaries, there are no equity securities of any class
of any subsidiary of EAST, or any security exchangeable or convertible into or
exercisable for such equity securities, issued, reserved for issuance or
outstanding. Except as set forth in Section 3.02, as of the Capitalization
Date there are no options, warrants, equity securities, calls, rights
(including preemptive rights), commitments or agreements of any character to
which EAST or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which EAST or any of
its subsidiaries are bound obligating EAST or any of its subsidiaries to
issue, deliver or sell, or cause to be issued, delivered or sold, or
repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire, or cause the repurchase, redemption
or acquisition, of any shares of capital stock of EAST or any of its
subsidiaries or obligating EAST or any of its subsidiaries to grant, extend,
accelerate the vesting of, change the price of, or otherwise amend or enter
into any such option, warrant, equity security, call, right, commitment or
agreement. Except as disclosed in the EAST SEC Reports, there are no
registration rights agreements or understandings and, to the knowledge of
EAST, there are no voting trusts, proxies or other agreements or
understandings with respect to any equity security of any class of EAST or
with respect to any equity security of any class of any of its subsidiaries.

  Section 3.04. Authority.

  (a) Each of EAST and Merger Sub has all requisite corporate power and
authority to enter into this Agreement and to consummate the transactions
contemplated hereby. The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby have been duly authorized
by all necessary corporate action on the part of EAST and Merger Sub, subject
only to the approval of the Merger by EAST's stockholders and the filing and
recordation of the Certificate of Merger pursuant to Delaware Law. This
Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by each of EAST and Merger Sub
and constitutes the valid and binding obligation of each of EAST and Merger
Sub, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as enforceability may be
limited by bankruptcy and other similar laws affecting the rights and remedies
of creditors generally and general principles of equity. The execution and
delivery of this Agreement by each of EAST and Merger Sub does not, and the
performance of this Agreement by each of EAST and Merger Sub will not, (i)
conflict with or violate the Restated Articles or Bylaws of EAST or the
Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of Merger Sub or the equivalent
organizational documents of any of its other subsidiaries, (ii) subject to
obtaining the approval of the Merger of EAST's stockholders as contemplated in
Section 5.02 and compliance with the requirements set forth in Section 3.04(b)
below, conflict with or violate any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment or
decree applicable to EAST or any of its subsidiaries (including Merger Sub) or
by which its or any of their respective properties or assets is bound or
affected, or (iii) result in any breach of or constitute a default (with or
without notice or lapse of time or both) under, or impair EAST's rights or
alter the rights or obligations of any third party under, or give to others
any rights of termination, amendment, acceleration or cancellation of, or
result in the creation of a lien or encumbrance on any of the properties or
assets of EAST or any of its subsidiaries (including Merger Sub) pursuant to,
any note, bond, mortgage, indenture, contract, agreement, lease, license,
permit, franchise or other instrument or obligation to which EAST or any of
its subsidiaries (including Merger Sub) is a party or by which EAST or any of
its subsidiaries (including Merger Sub) or its or any of their respective
properties or assets are bound or affected, except, with respect to clauses
(ii) and (iii), for any such conflicts, violations, defaults or other
occurrences that could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on EAST. Section 3.04 of the EAST Disclosure Schedule lists all
consents, waivers and approvals under any of EAST's or any of its
subsidiaries' agreements, contracts, licenses, leases or other agreements or
instruments required to be obtained in connection with the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby, the failure to obtain which could reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST.


                                     A-20
<PAGE>

  (b) No consent, approval, order or authorization of, or registration,
declaration or filing with, any Governmental Entity is required by or with
respect to EAST or any of its subsidiaries (including Merger Sub) in
connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, except for (i) the
filing of the Registration Statement with the SEC in accordance with the
Securities Act, (ii) the filing of the Certificate of Merger with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, (iii) the filing of the Proxy
Statement with the SEC in accordance with the Exchange Act, (iv) the filing of
a Current Report on Form 8-K with the SEC, (v) the listing of the EAST Common
Stock on Nasdaq, (vi) the filing of a Notification and Report Form for Certain
Mergers and Acquisitions with the FTC and DOJ in accordance with the HSR Act,
(vii) such consents, approvals, orders, authorizations, registrations,
declarations and filings as may be required under applicable federal and state
securities laws and the laws of any foreign country and (viii) such other
consents, authorizations, filings, approvals and registrations which, if not
obtained or made, could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on WEST or EAST or have a material adverse effect on, or materially
alter or delay, the ability of the parties to consummate the Merger.

  Section 3.05. SEC Filings: EAST Financial Statements.

  (a) EAST has filed all forms, reports and documents required to be filed
with the SEC since March 30, 1995, and has made available to WEST such forms,
reports and documents in the form filed with the SEC and, prior to the
Effective Time, will have made available to WEST copies of any additional
forms, reports and documents filed with the SEC prior to the Effective Time.
All such required forms, reports and documents (including those that EAST may
file subsequent to the date hereof) are referred to herein collectively as the
"EAST SEC Reports." In addition, EAST has made available to WEST all exhibits
to the EAST SEC Reports filed prior to the date hereof, and will promptly make
available to WEST all exhibits to any additional EAST SEC Reports filed prior
to the Effective Time. All documents required to be filed as exhibits to the
EAST SEC Reports have been so filed, and all material contracts so filed as
exhibits are in full force and effect, except those which have expired in
accordance with their terms or whose failure to be so could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST, and neither EAST nor any
of its subsidiaries is in default thereunder, except where any such default
has not resulted in and is not reasonably expected to result in any Material
Adverse Effect on EAST. As of their respective filing dates, the EAST SEC
Reports (i) complied in all material respects with the requirements of the
Securities Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be, and the rules and
regulations of the SEC thereunder applicable to such EAST SEC Reports, and
(ii) did not at the time they were filed (or if amended or superseded by a
filing prior to the date of this Agreement, then on the date of such filing)
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the
statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were
made, not misleading. None of EAST's subsidiaries is required to file any
forms, reports or other documents with the SEC.

  (b) Each of the consolidated financial statements (including, in each case,
any related notes thereto) contained in the EAST SEC Reports (the "EAST
Financials"), including any EAST SEC Reports filed after the date hereof until
the Closing, (w) were complete and correct in all material respects as of
their respective dates, (x) complied as to form in all material respects with
applicable accounting requirements and with the published rules and
regulations of the SEC with respect thereto as of their respective dates, (y)
was prepared in accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent basis throughout
the periods involved and consistent with each other (except as may be
indicated in the notes thereto or, in the case of unaudited interim financial
statements, as may be permitted by the SEC on Form 10-Q under the Exchange
Act) and (z) fairly presented the consolidated financial position of EAST and
its subsidiaries as at the respective dates thereof and the consolidated
results of its operations and cash flows for the periods indicated, except
that the unaudited interim financial statements were subject to normal and
recurring year-end adjustments which were not material in amount. There has
been no material change in EAST accounting policies except as described in the
notes to the EAST Financials. The balance sheet of EAST contained in the EAST
SEC Report for the year ended December 31, 1998 is hereinafter referred to as
the "EAST Balance Sheet." Neither EAST nor any of its subsidiaries has any
obligations or liabilities (absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise) of any
nature required to be disclosed on a balance sheet

                                     A-21
<PAGE>

or in the related notes to the consolidated financial statements prepared in
accordance with GAAP which are, individually or in the aggregate, material to
the business, results of operations or financial condition of EAST and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole, except liabilities (i) provided for in the EAST
Balance Sheet, (ii) incurred since the date of the EAST Balance Sheet in the
ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, or (iii) which
could not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a
Material Adverse Effect on EAST.

  (c) EAST has heretofore made available to WEST a complete and correct copy
of any amendments or modifications, which have not yet been filed with the SEC
but which are required to be filed, to agreements, documents or other
instruments which previously had been filed by EAST with the SEC pursuant to
the Securities Act or the Exchange Act.

  Section 3.06. Absence of Certain Changes or Events. Since the date of the
EAST Balance Sheet, there has not been: (i) any Material Adverse Effect on
EAST (whether or not covered by insurance), (ii) any material change by EAST
in its accounting methods, principles or practices, except as required by
concurring changes in GAAP, (iii) any revaluation by EAST of any of its or any
of its subsidiaries' assets having a Material Adverse Effect on EAST,
including, without limitation, writing down the value of inventory or writing
off notes or accounts receivable other than in the ordinary course of business
consistent with past practice or as required by concurrent changes in GAAP,
(iv) any acquisition, sale or transfer of any material asset of EAST or any of
its subsidiaries other than in the ordinary course of business and consistent
with past practice; (v) any declaration, setting aside, or payment of a
dividend or other distribution with respect to the shares of EAST, or any
direct or indirect redemption, purchase or other acquisition by EAST of any of
its shares of capital stock; or (vi) any agreement by EAST or any of its
subsidiaries to do any of the things described in the preceding clauses (i)
through (v) (other than negotiations with WEST and its representatives
regarding the transactions contemplated by this Agreement).

  Section 3.07. Taxes. EAST and each of its subsidiaries has filed all tax
returns required to be filed by any of them and has paid (or EAST has paid on
its behalf) all taxes required to be paid (whether or not shown on such
returns), and the most recent financial statements contained in the EAST SEC
Reports reflect an adequate reserve for all taxes of EAST and its subsidiaries
accrued through the date of such financial statements. EAST is not a party to
any agreement, contract, arrangement or plan that has resulted or would
result, separately or in the aggregate, in the payment of (a) any "excess
parachute payments" within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code in
connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (without
regard to the exception in Section 280G(b)(4)) or (b) any other amount for
which a deduction would be disallowed under Section 162(m) or Section 404 of
the Code. EAST has not agreed to make any adjustment under Section 481(a) of
the Code by reason of a change in accounting method or otherwise, and EAST
will not be required to make any such adjustment as a result of the
transactions contemplated by this agreement. EAST is not and has not ever been
a "United States real property holding corporation" within the meaning of
Section 897(c)(2) of the Code. EAST has never filed a consent pursuant to
Section 341(f) of the Code (or any corresponding provision of state, local or
foreign law) relating to collapsible corporations, or agreed to have Section
341(f)(2) of the Code (or any corresponding provision of state, local or
foreign law) apply to the disposition of any asset owned by it. EAST is not
(and has not ever been) a party to a tax-sharing agreement and has not assumed
the liability of any other person for taxes. EAST has not ever been a member
of a group of corporations filing a consolidated, unitary or combined return
other than a group of which EAST is the parent. No issues have been raised
(and are currently pending) by any taxing authority in connection with any of
the returns of EAST and no deficiencies for any taxes have been proposed,
asserted or assessed against EAST or any of its subsidiaries. No waivers of
statutes of limitation with respect to any tax returns have been given by or
requested from EAST. No power of attorney has been granted by EAST, and is
currently in force, with respect to any matter relating to taxes. None of the
returns filed or required to be filed by EAST contains or will contain a
disclosure statement under former Section 6661 or Section 6662 of the Code or
any similar provision of any state, local or foreign law.

                                     A-22
<PAGE>

  Section 3.08. Compliance; Permits; Restrictions.

  (a) Neither EAST nor any of its subsidiaries is in conflict with, or in
default or violation of (or have taken or failed to take any action which with
notice or lapse of time or both would become a default or violation), or
received notice of violation of (i) any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment
or decree applicable to EAST or any of its subsidiaries or by which its or any
of their respective properties or assets is bound or affected, or (ii) any
note, bond, mortgage, indenture, collective bargaining agreement, contract,
agreement, lease, license, permit, franchise or other instrument or obligation
to which EAST or any of its subsidiaries is a party or by which EAST or any of
its subsidiaries or its or any of their respective properties or assets is
bound or affected, except for any conflicts, defaults or violations which
could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST. No
investigation or review by any governmental or regulatory body or authority is
pending or, to EAST's knowledge, threatened against EAST or its subsidiaries,
nor has any governmental or regulatory body or authority indicated an
intention to conduct the same, other than, in each such case, those the
outcome of which could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on EAST. All leases of real property to which EAST is a party are in
good standing and are valid, binding and enforceable in accordance with their
respective terms. There does not exist a default (nor has an event occurred
which with notice or lapse of time or both would become a default) on the part
of the landlord under any such lease, except as could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST.

  (b) EAST and its subsidiaries hold all consents, permits, licenses,
variances, exemptions, orders and approvals from governmental authorities
which are material to the operation of the business of EAST and its
subsidiaries taken as a whole (collectively, the "EAST Permits") and all of
such EAST Permits are in full force and effect. EAST and its subsidiaries are
in compliance with the terms of the EAST Permits, except where the failure to
so comply could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect
on EAST.

  Section 3.09. Litigation. There is no action, suit, proceeding, claim,
arbitration or investigation pending, or, to EAST's knowledge, threatened,
before any agency, court, tribunal or Governmental Entity, foreign or
domestic, against EAST or any of its subsidiaries which could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST, or which in any manner
challenges or seeks to prevent, enjoin, alter or delay any of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. Nor has EAST or any of its subsidiaries
received any notice or assertion of such an action, suit, proceeding, claim,
arbitration or investigation.

  Section 3.10. Brokers' and Finders' Fees. Except for fees payable to BT
Alex. Brown pursuant to an engagement letter dated March 11, 1999, EAST has
not incurred, nor will it incur, directly or indirectly, any liability for
brokerage or finders' fees or agents' commissions or investment bankers' fees
or any similar charges in connection with this Agreement or any transaction
contemplated hereby.

  Section 3.11. Absence of Liens and Encumbrances. EAST and each of its
subsidiaries has good and valid title to, or, in the case of leased properties
and assets, valid leasehold interests in, all of its material tangible
properties and assets, real, personal and mixed, used in its business, free
and clear of any mortgages, liens, pledges, charges, or encumbrances of any
kind or character, except (i) as reflected in the EAST Financials, (ii) for
liens for property taxes not yet due and payable and (iii) such imperfections
of title and encumbrances, if any, which have not and could not reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST.

  Section 3.12. Pooling of Interests. To the knowledge of EAST, based on
consultation with its independent accountants, neither EAST nor any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any of their respective directors, officers or
stockholders has taken or agreed to take any action which would interfere with
EAST's ability to account for the Merger as a pooling of interests or would
prevent the Merger from constituting a transaction qualifying as a
reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Code. To EAST's knowledge, there
are no agreements, plans, or other circumstances relating to EAST or any of
its subsidiaries or affiliates that would prevent the Merger from qualifying
under Section 368(a) of the Code.

                                     A-23
<PAGE>

  Section 3.13. Change of Control Payments. Neither the execution and delivery
of this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby
will (i) result in any payment (including, without limitation, severance,
unemployment compensation, golden parachutes, bonus, or otherwise) becoming
due to any officer, director or employee of EAST or any of its subsidiaries,
(ii) increase any benefits otherwise payable by EAST or any of its
subsidiaries or (iii) result in the acceleration of the time of payment or
vesting of any such benefits.

  Section 3.14. Statements; Proxy Statements/Prospectus. The information
supplied by EAST and Merger Sub for inclusion in the Registration Statement
shall not at the time the Registration Statement (including any amendments or
supplements thereto) is filed with the SEC and at the time it becomes
effective under the Securities Act, contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary in order to make the statements therein not misleading in light of
the circumstances under which they were made. The information supplied by EAST
and Merger Sub for inclusion in the Proxy Statement to be sent to the
stockholders of EAST and the stockholders of WEST in connection with the EAST
Stockholders' Meeting and in connection with the WEST Stockholders' Meeting
shall not, on the date the Proxy Statement is first mailed to EAST's
stockholders and WEST's stockholders, at the time of the WEST Stockholders'
Meeting and the EAST Stockholders' Meeting and at the Effective Time, contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements
therein, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not false or
misleading; or omit to state any material fact necessary to correct any
statement in any earlier communication with respect to the solicitation of
proxies for the EAST Stockholders' Meeting or the WEST Stockholders' Meeting
which has become false or misleading. The Proxy Statement will comply as to
form in all material respects with the provisions of the Exchange Act and the
rules and regulations thereunder. If at any time prior to the Effective Time,
any event or information should be discovered by EAST or Merger Sub which
should be set forth in an amendment to the Registration Statement or a
supplement to the Proxy Statement, EAST or Merger Sub shall promptly inform
WEST. Notwithstanding the foregoing, EAST and Merger Sub make no
representation or warranty with respect to any information supplied by WEST
which is contained in any of the foregoing documents.

  Section 3.15. Board Approval. The Board of Directors of EAST has, as of the
date of this Agreement, unanimously (i) approved this Agreement and the
Merger, (ii) determined that the Merger is fair to, and in the best interests
of, EAST and its stockholders, and (iii) determined to recommend that the
stockholders of EAST approve this Agreement and the consummation of the
Merger.

  Section 3.16. Fairness Opinion. EAST has received an opinion from BT Alex.
Brown, dated as of the date hereof, to the effect that as of the date hereof,
the Exchange Ratio is fair to EAST's stockholders from a financial point of
view and, promptly after a written copy of such opinion is delivered to EAST,
EAST will deliver to WEST a copy of such opinion.

  Section 3.17. Vote Required. The affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of the shares of EAST Common Stock outstanding on the record date set
for the EAST Stockholders' Meeting is the only vote of the holders of any of
EAST's capital stock necessary to approve this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby.

  Section 3.18. Representations Complete. None of the representations or
warranties made by EAST or Merger Sub herein or in any Schedule hereto,
including the EAST Disclosure Schedule, or certificates furnished by EAST or
Merger Sub pursuant to this Agreement, or the EAST SEC Reports, when all such
documents are read together in their entirety, contains or will contain at the
Effective Time any untrue statement of a material fact, or omits or will omit
at the Effective Time to state any material fact necessary in order to make
the statements contained herein or therein, in the light of the circumstances
under which made, not misleading.


                                     A-24
<PAGE>

                                  ARTICLE IV

                    Conduct of Business Pending the Merger

  For purposes of this Article IV, WEST shall include WEST and each of its
subsidiaries and EAST shall include EAST and each of its subsidiaries.

  Section 4.01. Conduct of Business of WEST and EAST. During the period from
the date of this Agreement and continuing until the earlier of the termination
of this Agreement pursuant to its terms or the Effective Time, WEST and EAST
agree, except to the extent expressly contemplated by this Agreement or that
the other party shall otherwise consent to in writing, to carry on its
business in the usual, regular and ordinary course, in substantially the same
manner as heretofore conducted, to pay its debts and taxes when due subject to
good faith disputes over such debts or taxes, to pay or perform other material
obligations when due, and use its commercially reasonable efforts consistent
with past practice and policies to preserve intact its present business
organization, keep available the services of its present officers and
employees and preserve its relationships with customers, suppliers,
distributors, licensors, licensees, and others with which it has business
dealings. In furtherance of the foregoing and subject to applicable law, each
of WEST and EAST agree to use its commercially reasonable efforts to promptly
notify the other of any event or occurrence not in the ordinary course of
business, and of any event which could reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect. Without limiting the foregoing, without the prior
written consent of the other, neither WEST nor EAST shall do, cause, or permit
any of the following, and neither WEST nor EAST shall permit its subsidiaries
to do any of the following:

    (a) amend or otherwise change its Restated Certificate or Restated
  Articles, as the case may be, or By-Laws;

    (b) (i) declare, set aside, make or pay any dividend or other
  distribution (whether in cash, stock or property or any combination
  thereof) in respect of any of its capital stock, except that a wholly owned
  subsidiary may declare and pay a dividend to its parent, (ii) split,
  combine or reclassify any of its capital stock or issue or authorize or
  propose the issuance of any other securities in respect of, in lieu of or
  in substitution for shares of its capital stock or (iii) amend the terms
  of, repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire, or permit any subsidiary to
  repurchase, redeem or otherwise acquire, any of its securities or any
  securities of its subsidiaries, or propose to do any of the foregoing;

    (c) other than pursuant to agreements existing as of the date hereof and
  set forth in the EAST Disclosure Schedule or the WEST Disclosure Schedule,
  as the case may be, accelerate, amend or change the period (or permit any
  acceleration, amendment or change) of exercisability or vesting of options
  or other rights granted under the WEST Employee Plans or EAST's employee
  stock plans (including, without limitation, the WEST Stock Option Plans,
  the EAST Stock Option Plans and the WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan) or
  authorize cash payments in exchange for any options or other rights granted
  under any of such plans, other than changing the plan period of the WEST
  Employee Stock Purchase Plan in accordance with Section 5.06;

    (d) take or allow to be taken or fail to take any act or omission which
  would jeopardize the treatment of the Merger as a pooling of interests for
  accounting purposes under GAAP; or

    (e) take, or agree in writing or otherwise to take, any of the actions
  described in Sections 4.01(a) through (d) above, or any action which would
  make any of its representations or warranties contained in this Agreement
  untrue or incorrect such that the conditions to closing in Section 6.02(a)
  and 6.03(a), as the case may be, would not be satisfied or prevent it from
  performing or cause it not to perform its covenants hereunder such that the
  conditions to closing in Section 6.02(b) and 6.03(b), as the case may be,
  would not be satisfied or result in any of the conditions to the Merger set
  forth herein not being satisfied.

  Section 4.02. Conduct of Business of WEST. During the period from the date
of this Agreement and continuing until the earlier of the termination of this
Agreement pursuant to its terms or the Effective Time,

                                     A-25
<PAGE>

except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, WEST shall not do, cause
or permit, nor permit its subsidiaries to do, any of the following, without
the prior written consent of EAST:

    (a) issue, sell, pledge, dispose of or encumber, or authorize or propose
  the issuance, sale, pledge, disposition or encumbrance of, or purchase or
  propose the purchase of, any shares of capital stock of any class, or any
  options, warrants, convertible securities or other rights of any kind to
  acquire any shares of capital stock, or any other ownership interest
  (including, without limitation, any phantom interest) (except for the
  issuance of shares of WEST Common Stock issuable pursuant to the exercise
  of employee stock options under the WEST Stock Option Plans or pursuant to
  rights to purchase shares under the WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan,
  which options or rights, as the case may be, are outstanding on the date
  hereof);

    (b) sell, pledge, lease, license, dispose of or encumber any of its
  properties or assets (except for (i) sales of assets in the ordinary course
  of business and in a manner consistent with past practice and (ii)
  dispositions of obsolete or worthless assets);

    (c) sell, lease, license, or sublicense or otherwise dispose of or
  transfer to any person or entity any WEST IP Rights or amend or modify in a
  manner materially adverse to WEST or the Surviving Corporation any existing
  agreements with respect to any WEST IP Rights or WEST IP Rights Agreements;

    (d) (i) acquire or agree to acquire (by merger, consolidation, or
  acquisition of stock or assets or by any other manner) any corporation,
  partnership or other business organization or division thereof or any
  significant amount of assets, individually or in the aggregate, other than
  in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice or acquire
  or agree to acquire any equity securities of any such entity; (ii) incur
  any indebtedness for borrowed money or issue or sell any debt securities or
  warrants or other rights to acquire any debt securities or assume,
  guarantee (other than guarantees of bank debt of its subsidiaries entered
  into in the ordinary course of business) or endorse or otherwise as an
  accommodation become responsible for, the obligations of any person, or
  make any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or investments in,
  any other person, except in the ordinary course of business consistent with
  past practice; (iii) enter into or amend any material contract or agreement
  other than in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
  practice, or violate, amend or otherwise modify any contract which
  violation, amendment, modification or waiver could reasonably be expected
  to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST; (iv) authorize any capital
  expenditures or purchase of fixed assets which are, in the aggregate, in
  excess of $100,000, taken as a whole; or (v) enter into or amend any
  contract, agreement, commitment or arrangement to effect any of the matters
  prohibited by this Section 4.02(d);

    (e) increase the compensation payable or to become payable to its
  officers or employees, except for increases in salary or wages of employees
  who are not officers in the ordinary course of business consistent with
  past practice, or grant any severance or termination pay to, or enter into
  any employment or severance agreement with, any director, officer or other
  employee, except for severance or termination payments to employees who are
  not officers in the ordinary course of business consistent with past
  practice as set forth in Section 4.02(e) of the WEST Disclosure Schedule,
  or establish, adopt, enter into or amend any Employee Plan or hire any new
  officer or director level employee or pay any special bonus or special
  remuneration to any employee or director;

    (f) take any action, other than as required by GAAP, to change accounting
  policies or procedures (including, without limitation, procedures with
  respect to revenue recognition, capitalization of software development
  costs, valuation of inventory or assets, payments of accounts payable and
  collection of accounts receivable) or revalue any of its assets, including
  without limitation, writing down the value of inventory or writing off
  notes or accounts receivable other than in the ordinary course of business
  consistent with past practice;

    (g) make or change any material tax election inconsistent with past
  practice or settle or compromise any material federal, state, local or
  foreign tax liability, claim or assessment or agree to an extension or
  waiver of a statute of limitations for any assessment of any tax, except to
  the extent the amount of any such settlement has been reserved for on its
  most recent WEST SEC Report;


                                     A-26
<PAGE>

    (h) pay, discharge or satisfy any claims, liabilities or obligations
  (absolute, accrued, asserted or unasserted, contingent or otherwise), other
  than the payment, discharge or satisfaction in the ordinary course of
  business and consistent with past practice other than amounts in connection
  with this Agreement and other than liabilities adequately reflected or
  reserved against in the WEST Financial Statements;

    (i) except as may be required by law or as could not reasonably be
  expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST or the Surviving
  Corporation, take any action to terminate or amend any of the WEST Employee
  Plans other than in connection with the Merger;

    (j) enter into any material partnership arrangements, joint development
  agreements, strategic alliances or operating leases;

    (k) materially reduce the amount of insurance coverage provided by
  existing insurance policies;

    (l) commence a lawsuit other than (i) for the routine collection of
  bills, or (ii) in such cases where it in good faith determines that failure
  to commence suit would result in the material impairment of a valuable
  aspect of its business, provided that it consults with EAST prior to the
  filing of such a suit;

    (m) enter into or amend any transaction or agreement with any director,
  executive officer, or affiliate of WEST; or

    (n) take, or agree in writing or otherwise to take, any of the actions
  described in Sections 4.02(a) through (m) above.

  Section 4.03. Conduct of Business of EAST.

  During the period from the date of this Agreement and continuing until the
earlier of the termination of this Agreement pursuant to its terms or the
Effective Time, except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, EAST shall
not do, cause or permit, nor permit its subsidiaries to do, the following,
without the prior consent of WEST: issue or sell any shares of capital stock
of any class (except for (i) the issuance of shares of EAST Common Stock
issuable under the East Stock Option Plans and (ii) the issuance of up to an
aggregate of 1,817,540 shares of EAST Common Stock; provided, that in the case
of this clause (ii), such issuance (x) does not require the filing by EAST of
a registration statement under the Securities Act which could reasonably be
expected to materially affect the ability of EAST to, or could reasonably be
expected to delay by a period of more than fifteen (15) business days EAST's
ability to, consummate the Merger, (y) does not require stockholder approval
and (z) is not made to any affiliates of EAST).

  Section 4.04. No Solicitation.

  From the date of this Agreement until the earlier of the Effective Time or
the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Article VII, WEST and its
subsidiaries will not, directly or indirectly through their officers,
directors, employees, agents or otherwise, (i) solicit, initiate or encourage
any Takeover Proposal (defined below) or (ii) engage in negotiations with, or
disclose any nonpublic information relating to WEST or any of its subsidiaries
to, or afford access to the properties, books or records of WEST or any of its
subsidiaries to, any person that has indicated to WEST that it may be
considering making, or that has made, a Takeover Proposal or whose efforts to
formulate a Takeover Proposal would knowingly or could reasonably be expected
to be assisted thereby; provided, nothing herein shall prohibit WEST's Board
of Directors from taking and disclosing to WEST's stockholders a position with
respect to an unsolicited tender or exchange offer pursuant to Rules 14d-9 and
14e-2 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Notwithstanding the immediately
preceding sentence, if an unsolicited Takeover Proposal, or an unsolicited
written expression of interest that WEST reasonably expects to lead to a
Takeover Proposal, shall be received by the Board of Directors of WEST, then,
to the extent the Board of Directors of WEST believes in good faith (after
consultation with its financial advisor) (i) that such Takeover Proposal
would, if consummated, result in a transaction more favorable to WEST's
stockholders from a financial point of view than the transaction contemplated
by this Agreement and (ii) after reasonable inquiry by WEST, that the third
party making such Takeover Proposal is financially capable of consummating
such Takeover Proposal (any Takeover Proposal meeting such conditions being
referred to in this Agreement as a "Superior Proposal") and the Board of
Directors of WEST determines in good faith after consultation with outside
legal

                                     A-27
<PAGE>

counsel that it is necessary for the Board of Directors of WEST to comply with
its fiduciary duties to stockholders under applicable law, WEST and its
officers, directors, employees, investment bankers, financial advisors,
attorneys, accountants and other representatives retained by it may furnish in
connection therewith information and take such other actions as are consistent
with the fiduciary obligations of WEST's Board of Directors, and such actions
shall not be considered a breach of this Section 4.04 or any other provisions
of this Agreement, provided that (A) upon each such determination WEST
notifies EAST of such determination by the WEST Board of Directors and
provides EAST with a true and complete copy of the Superior Proposal received
from such third party, if the Superior Proposal is in writing, or a written
summary of all material terms and conditions thereof (including the identity
of the person initiating the Superior Proposal), if it is not in writing, (B)
WEST provides EAST (simultaneously with the time that such documents are
provided to such third party) with all documents containing or referring to
non-public information of WEST that are supplied to such third party, to the
extent not previously supplied by WEST to EAST and (C) WEST provides such non-
public information to any such third party pursuant to a non-disclosure
agreement at least as restrictive as to confidential information as the
Confidentiality Agreement (as defined in Section 5.03). WEST shall not, and
shall not permit any of its officers, directors, employees (acting on behalf
of WEST) or other representatives to agree to or endorse any Takeover Proposal
unless WEST shall have terminated this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.01(g)
and paid EAST all amounts payable to EAST pursuant to Section 7.03(b).
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, WEST shall not
accept or recommend to its stockholders, or enter into any agreement
concerning, a Superior Proposal for a period of not less than 48 hours after
EAST's receipt of a true and complete copy of such Superior Proposal, if the
Superior Proposal is in writing, or a written summary of all material terms
and conditions thereof, if it is not in writing. WEST will immediately notify
EAST after receipt of any Takeover Proposal or any notice that any person is
considering making a Takeover Proposal or any request for non-public
information relating to WEST or any of its subsidiaries or for access to the
properties, books or records of WEST or any of its subsidiaries by (i) any
person that has indicated to WEST that it may be considering making, or that
has made, a Takeover Proposal, or (ii) any person whose efforts to formulate a
Takeover Proposal would knowingly or could reasonably be expected to be
assisted thereby and who could reasonably be expected to make a Takeover
Proposal (such notice to include the identity of such person or persons) and
will keep EAST fully informed of the status and material details of any such
Takeover Proposal notice, request or any correspondence or communications
related thereto and shall provide EAST with a true and complete copy of such
Takeover Proposal notice or request or correspondence or communications
related thereto, if it is in writing, or a complete written summary thereof,
if it is not in writing. WEST shall immediately cease and cause to be
terminated any existing discussions or negotiations with any parties (other
than EAST and Merger Sub) conducted heretofore with respect to any Takeover
Proposal. WEST shall ensure that the officers, directors and employees of WEST
and its subsidiaries and any investment banker or other advisor or
representative retained by WEST are aware of the restrictions described in
this Section 4.04, and shall be responsible for any breach of this Section
4.04 by such officers, directors, employees, bankers, advisors and
representatives. For purposes of this Agreement, "Takeover Proposal" means any
offer or proposal for, or any indication of interest in, a merger or other
business combination involving WEST or the acquisition of 20% or more of the
outstanding shares of capital stock of WEST, or the sale or transfer of any
significant portion of the assets of WEST, other than the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.

                                   ARTICLE V

                             Additional Agreements

  Section 5.01. Proxy Statement/Prospectus; Registration Statement; Other
Filings. As promptly as practicable after the execution of this Agreement,
WEST and EAST will prepare and file with the SEC, the Proxy Statement and, as
promptly as practicable following receipt of SEC comments thereon, EAST will
prepare and file with the SEC the Registration Statement in which the Proxy
Statement will be included as a prospectus. Each of WEST and EAST will respond
to any comments of the SEC, will use commercially reasonable efforts to have
the Registration Statement declared effective under the Securities Act as
promptly as practicable after such filing (provided, however, that EAST shall
have no obligation to agree to account for the Merger as a

                                     A-28
<PAGE>

"purchase" in order to cause the Registration Statement to become effective)
and will cause the Proxy Statement to be mailed to its stockholders at the
earliest practicable time. As promptly as practicable after the date of this
Agreement, WEST and EAST will prepare and file any other filings required
under the Exchange Act, the Securities Act or any other federal, foreign or
Blue Sky laws relating to the Merger and the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement (the "Other Filings"). Each party will notify the other party
promptly upon the receipt of any comments from the SEC or its staff and of any
request by the SEC or its staff or any other governmental officials for
amendments or supplements to the Registration Statement, the Proxy Statement
or any Other Filing or for additional information and will supply the other
party with copies of all correspondence between such party or any of its
representatives, on the one hand, and the SEC, or its staff or any other
government officials, on the other hand, with respect to the Registration
Statement, the Proxy Statement, the Merger or any Other Filing. The Proxy
Statement, the Registration Statement and the Other Filings shall comply in
all material respects with all applicable requirements of law and the rules
and regulations promulgated thereunder. Whenever any event occurs which is
required to be set forth in an amendment or supplement to the Proxy Statement,
the Registration Statement or any Other Filing, WEST or EAST, as the case may
be, will promptly inform the other party of such occurrence and cooperate in
filing with the SEC or its staff or any other government officials, and/or
mailing to stockholders of WEST and EAST, such amendment or supplement. The
Proxy Statement shall also include the recommendations of (i) the Board of
Directors of WEST in favor of the Merger and this Agreement (except that the
Board of Directors of WEST may withdraw, modify or refrain from making such
recommendations to the extent that the Board of Directors of WEST believes in
good faith that a Superior Proposal has been made, or upon advice of its
outside legal counsel, shall determine that to include such recommendation or
not withdraw such recommendation if previously included would constitute a
breach of the Board's fiduciary duties under applicable law), and (ii) the
Board of Directors of EAST in favor of the Merger and this Agreement (except
that the Board of Directors of EAST may withdraw, modify or refrain from
making such recommendations to the extent that the Board of Directors of EAST,
upon advice of its outside legal counsel, shall determine that to include such
recommendation or not withdraw such recommendation if previously included
would constitute a breach of the Board's fiduciary duties under applicable
law).

  Section 5.02. Meetings of Stockholders. Promptly after the date hereof, WEST
will take all action necessary in accordance with Delaware Law and its
Restated Certificate and Bylaws to convene the WEST Stockholders' Meeting to
be held as promptly as practicable, and in any event if permitted by
applicable law within 45 days after the declaration of effectiveness of the
Registration Statement, for the purpose of voting upon the Merger and this
Agreement. Promptly after the date hereof, EAST will take all action necessary
in accordance with Massachusetts Law and its Restated Articles and Bylaws to
convene the EAST Stockholders' Meeting to be held as promptly as practicable,
and in any event if permitted by applicable law within 45 days after the
declaration of effectiveness of the Registration Statement, for the purpose of
voting upon the Merger and this Agreement. EAST and WEST will consult with
each other and will use their commercially reasonable efforts to hold their
respective Stockholders' Meetings on the same day. Promptly after the date
hereof, EAST and WEST will each use its commercially reasonable efforts to
solicit from its stockholders proxies in favor of the approval of this
Agreement and the approval of the issuance of shares of EAST Common Stock
pursuant to the terms of the Merger, as the case may be, and will take all
other action necessary or advisable to secure the vote or consent of their
respective stockholders required by the rules of the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc. or Delaware or Massachusetts Law to obtain such
approvals, except to the extent that the Board of Directors of such party,
upon advice of its outside legal counsel, shall determine that doing so would
cause the Board of Directors of such party to breach its fiduciary duties
under applicable law.

  Section 5.03. Access to Information; Confidentiality.

  (a) Upon reasonable notice and subject to restrictions contained in
confidentiality agreements to which such party is subject, WEST and EAST shall
each (and shall cause each of their subsidiaries to) afford to the officers,
employees, accountants, counsel and other representatives of the other,
reasonable access, during the period prior to the earlier of the Effective
Time or the termination of this Agreement under Article VII, to all its
properties, books, contracts, commitments and records and, during such period,
WEST and EAST each shall (and shall cause

                                     A-29
<PAGE>

each of their subsidiaries to) furnish promptly to the other all information
concerning its business, properties and personnel as such other party may
reasonably request, and each shall make available to the other the appropriate
individuals (including attorneys, accountants and other professionals) for
discussion of the other's business, properties and personnel as either party
may reasonably request. The parties acknowledge that each of EAST and WEST
have previously executed a Confidentiality Agreement, dated September 8, 1998
(the "Confidentiality Agreement"), which Confidentiality Agreement shall
continue in full force and effect in accordance with its terms. Each party
shall keep such information confidential in accordance with the terms of the
Confidentiality Agreement.

  (b) WEST shall provide to EAST and EAST shall provide to WEST promptly as
available drafts and printers' proofs of their respective Forms 10-Q for the
quarter ended April 30, 1999 and March 31, 1999, respectively.

  (c) No information or knowledge obtained in any investigation pursuant to
this Section 5.03 shall affect or be deemed to modify any representation or
warranty contained herein or the conditions to the obligations of the parties
to consummate the Merger.

  Section 5.04. Consents; Approvals.

  (a) WEST and EAST shall promptly apply for or otherwise seek, and shall each
use their commercially reasonable efforts to obtain all consents, waivers,
approvals, authorizations or orders (including, without limitation, all United
States and foreign governmental and regulatory rulings and approvals), and
WEST and EAST shall make all filings (including, without limitation, all
filings with United States and foreign governmental or regulatory agencies),
required in connection with the authorization, execution and delivery of this
Agreement by WEST and EAST and the consummation by them of the transactions
contemplated hereby. WEST and EAST shall use commercially reasonable efforts
to obtain all necessary consents, waivers and approvals under any of its
material contracts in connection with the Merger for the assignment thereof or
otherwise. WEST and EAST shall furnish all information required to be included
in the Proxy Statement and the Registration Statement, or for any application
or other filing to be made pursuant to the rules and regulations of any United
States or foreign governmental body in connection with the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. The parties hereto will consult and cooperate
with one another in connection with any analyses, appearances, presentations,
memoranda, briefs, arguments, opinions and proposals made or submitted by or
on behalf of any party hereto in connection with proceedings under or relating
to HSR or any other federal, state or foreign antitrust or fair trade law.

  (b) Each of EAST and WEST shall use all reasonable efforts to resolve such
objections, if any, as may be asserted by any Governmental Entity with respect
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement under HSR, the Sherman Act,
as amended, the Clayton Act, as amended, the Federal Trade Commission Act, as
amended, and any other Federal, state or foreign statutes, rules, regulations,
orders or decrees that are designed to prohibit, restrict or regulate actions
having the purpose or effect of monopolization or restraint of trade
(collectively, "Antitrust Laws"). Each of EAST and WEST shall use all
commercially reasonable efforts to take such action as may be required to
cause the expiration of the notice periods under the HSR or other Antitrust
Laws with respect to such transactions as promptly as possible after the
execution of this Agreement.

  (c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 5.04(a) or (b), (i)
neither EAST nor any of its subsidiaries shall be required to divest any of
their respective businesses, product lines or assets, or to take or agree to
take any other action or agree to any limitation, that could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST or of EAST combined with
the Surviving Corporation after the Effective Time, or (ii) neither WEST nor
its subsidiaries shall be required to divest any of their respective
businesses, product lines or assets, or to take or agree to take any other
action or agree to any limitation, that could reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on WEST.

                                     A-30
<PAGE>

  Section 5.05. Stock Options.

  (a) At the Effective Time, WEST's obligations with respect to each
outstanding option to purchase shares of WEST Common Stock (each, a "WEST
Option") under the WEST Stock Option Plan, whether vested or unvested, will be
assumed by EAST. Schedule 5.05 sets forth a true and complete list as of the
Capitalization Date of all holders of outstanding options under the WEST Stock
Option Plan, including the number of shares of WEST capital stock subject to
each such option, the exercise or vesting schedule, the exercise price per
share and the term of each such option. On the Closing Date, WEST shall
deliver to EAST an updated Schedule 5.05 hereto current as of a then recent
date to be mutually agreed upon. Each WEST Option so assumed by EAST under
this Agreement shall continue to have, and be subject to, the same terms and
conditions set forth in the WEST Stock Option Plan and the documents governing
the outstanding options under such Plan pursuant to which such WEST Option was
issued as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, except that (i)
such WEST Option will be exercisable for that number of whole shares of EAST
Common Stock equal to the product of the number of shares of WEST Common Stock
that were issuable upon exercise of such WEST Option immediately prior to the
Effective Time multiplied by the Exchange Ratio, rounded down to the nearest
whole number of shares of EAST Common Stock, and (ii) the per share exercise
price for the shares of EAST Common Stock issuable upon exercise of such
assumed WEST Option will be equal to the quotient determined by dividing the
exercise price per share of WEST Common Stock at which such WEST Option was
exercisable immediately prior to the Effective Time by the Exchange Ratio, and
rounding the resulting exercise price up to the nearest whole cent. Consistent
with the terms of the WEST Stock Option Plan and the documents governing the
outstanding WEST Options under those Plans and except as set forth in the WEST
Disclosure Schedule, the Merger will not terminate any of the WEST Options
under such Plans or accelerate the exercisability or vesting of the WEST
Options or the shares of EAST Common Stock which will be subject to those
Options upon EAST's assumption of the WEST Options in the Merger.

  (b) It is the intention of the parties that WEST Options assumed by EAST
qualify following the Effective Time as incentive stock options as defined in
Section 422 of the Code ("ISO's") to the extent WEST Options qualified as
ISO's prior to the Effective Time.

  (c) After the Effective Time, EAST will issue to each person who,
immediately prior to the Effective Time, was a holder of an outstanding WEST
Option, a document evidencing the foregoing assumption of such WEST Option by
EAST.

  (d) EAST will reserve sufficient shares of EAST Common Stock for issuance
under this Section 5.05 hereof.

  Section 5.06. WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan. WEST shall take such
actions as are necessary to cause the Exercise Date (as such term is used in
the WEST Employee Stock Purchase Plan applicable to the then current Purchase
Period (as such term is used in the west Employee Stock Purchase Plan) to be
the last trading day on which the shares of EAST Common Stock are traded on
Nasdaq immediately prior to the Effective Time (the "Final WEST Purchase
Date"); provided, that such change in the Purchase Date shall be conditioned
upon the consummation of the Merger. On the Final WEST Purchase Date, WEST
shall apply the funds credited as of such date under the WEST Stock Purchase
Plan within each participant's payroll withholdings account to the purchase of
whole shares of WEST Common Stock in accordance with the terms of the WEST
Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

  Section 5.07. WEST Affiliate Agreements. Set forth in Section 5.07 of the
WEST Disclosure Schedule is a list of those persons who may be deemed to be
"Affiliates" of WEST within the meaning of Rule 145 promulgated under the
Securities Act (a "WEST Affiliate") as of the date hereof. WEST will provide
EAST with such information and documents as EAST reasonably requests for
purposes of reviewing such list. WEST will use its commercially reasonable
efforts to deliver or cause to be delivered to EAST promptly after the
execution of this Agreement (and in each case at least thirty (30) days prior
to the Effective Time) from each WEST Affiliate an executed affiliate
agreement in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit C (the

                                     A-31
<PAGE>

"WEST Affiliate Agreements"), each of which is intended to be in full force
and effect as of the Effective Time. EAST and Merger Sub will be entitled to
and will place appropriate legends on the certificates evidencing any EAST
Common Stock to be received by a WEST Affiliate pursuant to the terms of this
Agreement, and to issue appropriate stop transfer instructions to the transfer
agent for the EAST Common Stock, consistent with the terms of the WEST
Affiliate Agreements.

  Section 5.08. EAST Affiliate Agreements. Set forth in Section 5.08 of the
EAST Disclosure Schedule is a list of those persons who may be deemed to be
"Affiliates" of EAST within the meaning of Rule 145 promulgated under the
Securities Act (an "EAST Affiliate") as of the date hereof. EAST will provide
WEST with such information and documents as WEST reasonably requests for
purposes of reviewing such list. EAST will use its commercially reasonable
efforts to deliver or cause to be delivered to WEST promptly after the
execution of this Agreement (and in each case at least thirty (30) days prior
to the Effective Time) from each EAST Affiliate an executed affiliate
agreement in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit D (the "EAST
Affiliate Agreements"), each of which is intended to be in full force and
effect as of the Effective Time. EAST and Merger Sub will be entitled to and
will issue appropriate stop transfer instructions to the transfer agent for
the EAST Common Stock, consistent with the terms of the EAST Affiliate
Agreements.

  Section 5.09. Indemnification and Insurance.

  (a) From and after the Effective Time, EAST and the Surviving Corporation
will fulfill and honor in all material respects the obligations of WEST
pursuant to any indemnification agreements between WEST and its directors and
officers in effect on the date hereof in respect of acts or omissions
occurring on or prior to the Effective Time; provided, however, that such
obligations shall be subject to any limitation imposed from time to time under
applicable law. The Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws of the Surviving
Corporation will contain the provisions with respect to indemnification and
elimination of liability for monetary damages substantially similar to those
set forth in the Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws of WEST as of the
date hereof, which provisions will not be amended, repealed or otherwise
modified for a period of six years from the Effective Time in any manner that
would adversely affect the rights thereunder of individuals who, at the
Effective Time, were directors, officers, employees or agents of WEST, unless
such modification is required by law.

  (b) After the Effective Time, EAST and the Surviving Corporation will, to
the fullest extent permitted under applicable law, indemnify and hold
harmless, each present and former director or officer of WEST (collectively,
the "Indemnified Parties") against any costs or expenses (including reasonable
attorneys' fees), judgments, fines, losses, claims, damages and liabilities in
connection with any claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation to the
extent arising out of or pertaining to any action or omission in his or her
capacity as a director or officer of WEST or arising out of or pertaining to
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement occurring on or prior to the
Effective Time for a period of six years after the date hereof. In the event
of any such claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation, (i) any counsel
retained by the Indemnified Parties for any period after the Effective Time
will be reasonably satisfactory to the Surviving Corporation and EAST, (ii)
after the Effective Time, EAST and the Surviving Corporation will pay the
reasonable fees and expenses of such counsel, promptly after statements
therefor are received, provided, that the Indemnified Party to whom such
expenses are advanced provides an undertaking (without delivering a bond or
other security) to repay such advance if it is ultimately determined that such
person is not entitled to indemnification and (iii) EAST and the Surviving
Corporation will cooperate in the defense of any such matter; provided,
however, that neither the Surviving Corporation nor EAST will be liable for
any settlement effected without its written consent; and provided, further,
that such indemnification shall be subject to any limitation imposed from time
to time under applicable law; and provided, further, that, in the event that
any claim or claims for indemnification are asserted or made within such six-
year period, all rights to indemnification in respect of any such claim or
claims will continue until the disposition of any and all such claims. The
Indemnified Parties as a group may retain only one law firm to represent them
with respect to any single action unless there is, under applicable standards
of professional conduct, a conflict on any significant issue between the
positions of any two or more Indemnified Parties.

                                     A-32
<PAGE>

  (c) For a period of six years after the Effective Time, EAST will cause the
Surviving Corporation to maintain in effect, if available, directors' and
officers' liability insurance in respect of acts or omissions occurring on or
prior to the Effective Time covering those persons who are currently covered
by WEST's directors' and officers' liability insurance policy on terms
substantially similar to those applicable to the current directors of EAST;
provided, however, that in no event will EAST or the Surviving Corporation be
required to expend in excess of 150% of the annual premium currently paid by
WEST, which amount has been disclosed to EAST, for such coverage and if EAST
or the Surviving Corporation is unable to obtain the insurance required by
this Section 5.09, it shall obtain as much coverage as is available for such
150% of the annual premium.

  (d) This Section 5.09 will survive the consummation of the Merger at the
Effective Time, and is intended to be for the benefit of, and shall be
enforceable by, each of WEST, the Surviving Corporation and the Indemnified
Parties and his or her heirs and representatives.

  Section 5.10. Notification of Certain Matters. WEST shall give prompt notice
to EAST and Merger Sub, and EAST and Merger Sub shall give prompt notice to
WEST, of (i) the occurrence, or non-occurrence, of any event the effect of
which would be likely to cause any representation or warranty of such party
contained in this Agreement to be untrue or inaccurate at or prior to the
Effective Time such that the conditions to closing in Section 6.02(a) and
6.03(a), as the case may be, would not be satisfied, and (ii) any failure of
WEST, EAST or Merger Sub, as the case may be, to comply with or satisfy any
covenant, condition or agreement to be complied with or satisfied by it
hereunder such that the conditions to closing in Section 6.02(b) and 6.03(b),
as the case may be, would not be satisfied; provided, however, that the
delivery of any notice pursuant to this Section shall not limit or otherwise
affect the remedies available hereunder to the party receiving such notice.

  Section 5.11. Further Action. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions
hereof, each of the parties hereto shall use all commercially reasonable
efforts to take, or cause to be taken, all actions and to do, or cause to be
done, all other things necessary, proper or advisable to consummate and make
effective as promptly as practicable the Merger and the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement, to obtain in a timely manner all necessary
waivers, consents and approvals under any of its or its subsidiaries'
agreements, contracts, licenses, leases or other agreements, or from any
Governmental Entity, and to effect all necessary registrations and filings,
and to otherwise satisfy or cause to be satisfied all conditions precedent to
its obligations under this Agreement. Each party hereto, at the reasonable
request of another party hereto, will execute and deliver such other
instruments and do and perform such other acts and things as may be necessary
or desirable for effecting completely the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby.

  Section 5.12. Public Announcements. EAST and WEST shall consult with each
other before issuing any press release or otherwise making any public
statements (whether or not in response to an inquiry) with respect to the
Merger, this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby and shall not
issue any such press release or make any such public statement without the
prior consent of the other party, which shall not be unreasonably withheld;
provided, however, that a party may, without the prior consent of the other
party, issue such press release or make such public statement as may after
consultation with counsel be required by law or by obligations pursuant to any
listing agreement with any national securities exchange or with the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. if it has used reasonable efforts to
consult with the other party.

  Section 5.13. Listing of EAST Common Stock. EAST shall use its commercially
reasonable efforts to cause the shares of EAST Common Stock to be issued in
the Merger to be approved for listing on the Nasdaq National Market prior to
the Effective Time, subject to notice of issuance.

  Section 5.14. Conveyance Taxes. EAST and WEST shall cooperate in the
preparation, execution and filing of all returns, questionnaires, applications
or other documents regarding any real property transfer or gains, sales, use,
transfer, value added, stock transfer and stamp taxes, any transfer,
recording, registration and other fees, and any similar taxes which become
payable in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby that are
required or permitted to be filed on or before the Effective Time.


                                     A-33
<PAGE>

  Section 5.15. Accountants' Letters. Upon reasonable notice from EAST, WEST
shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP to deliver to EAST a letter covering such matters as are requested by EAST
and as are customarily addressed in accountant's "comfort" letters.

  Section 5.16. Pooling Accounting Treatment. Each of EAST and WEST shall use
commercially reasonable efforts to cause the business combination to be
effected by the Merger to be accounted for as a pooling of interests. Each of
EAST and WEST shall use commercially reasonable efforts not to, and to cause
its Affiliates not to, take any action that would adversely affect the ability
of EAST to treat the Merger as a pooling of interests under GAAP.

  Section 5.17. Pooling Letters.

  (a) WEST shall use all commercially reasonable efforts to cause to be
delivered to EAST a letter of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, dated on or prior to
the date of this Agreement and confirmed in writing two business days before
the date of the Proxy Statement, to the effect that WEST qualifies as an
entity that may be a party to a business combination for which the pooling of
interest method of accounting would be available and in a form reasonably
satisfactory to EAST and customary in scope and substance for letters
delivered by independent public accountants in connection with transactions of
this type.

  (b) EAST shall use all commercially reasonable efforts to cause to be
delivered to WEST a letter of Deloitte & Touche LLP, dated on or prior to the
date of this Agreement and confirmed in writing two business days before the
date of the Proxy Statement, regarding concurrence with EAST's management's
conclusion regarding appropriateness of pooling of interest accounting
treatment for the Merger under APB Opinion No. 16 if consummated in accordance
with this Agreement and in a form reasonably satisfactory to WEST and
customary in scope and substance for letters delivered by independent public
accountants in connection with transactions of this type.

  Section 5.18. Voting Agreement. WEST shall use its commercially reasonable
efforts, on behalf of EAST and pursuant to the request of EAST, to cause each
WEST stockholder named in Schedule 5.18(a) to execute and deliver to EAST a
Voting Agreement in substantially the form of Exhibit A attached hereto
concurrently with the execution of this Agreement. WEST shall use its
commercially reasonable efforts to provide to EAST on the date hereof, a
schedule correctly stating on Schedule 5.18(a) the number of shares of WEST
Common Stock beneficially owned by each person listed. EAST shall use its
commercially reasonable efforts, on behalf of WEST and pursuant to the request
of WEST, to cause the President and Chief Executive Officer of EAST to execute
and deliver to WEST a Voting Agreement in substantially the form of Exhibit B
attached hereto concurrently with the execution of this Agreement. EAST shall
use its commercially reasonable efforts to provide to WEST on the date hereof,
a schedule correctly stating on Schedule 5.18(b) the number of shares of EAST
Common Stock beneficially owned by the President and Chief Executive Officer
of EAST.

  Section 5.19. Tax-Free Reorganization. EAST and WEST will each use its
commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Merger to be treated as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the Code. EAST and WEST
will each make available to the other party and their respective legal counsel
copies of all tax returns reasonably requested by the other party.

  Section 5.20. Board of Directors of EAST. EAST shall take all necessary
corporate action to appoint two non-employee designees of WEST reasonably
acceptable to EAST to the EAST Board of Directors as of the Effective Time,
one as a Class II Director and one as a Class III Director, whose terms will
expire upon the election and qualification of directors at the Annual Meeting
of Stockholders of EAST to be held in 2000 and 2001, respectively.

  Section 5.21. Form S-8. EAST agrees to file a registration statement on Form
S-8 for the shares of EAST Common Stock issuable with respect to assumed WEST
Stock Options no later than five (5) business

                                     A-34
<PAGE>

days after the Effective Time. WEST shall cooperate and assist EAST in the
preparation of such Registration Statement.

  Section 5.22. WEST Retirement Plans. WEST shall properly reflect any
contribution necessary to fully fund the Hourly Pension Plan on a termination
basis as of the date hereof on Section 5.22 of the WEST Disclosure Schedule.
Any and all defined contribution plans maintained by WEST or any ERISA
Affiliate of WEST, including but not limited to the Cortel Co. USA, Inc. (now
known as WEST) Profit Sharing Savings Plan and Trust for Salaried Employees,
but excluding the Pension Plan, shall be terminated by WEST immediately prior
to the Effective Time.

  Section 5.23. Past Service Credit. For purposes of any seniority periods or
length of service requirements, waiting periods, vesting periods, or
differential benefits based on length of service in any such plan or policy of
EAST and/or its subsidiaries for which a WEST employee may be eligible after
the Effective Time, EAST and/or its subsidiaries, as the case may be, shall
treat service by such employee with WEST as though it had been service with
EAST for all purposes under any such plan or policy so long as this crediting
of service does not violate applicable laws or any term of the respective
plan, agreement or policy providing benefits, and to the extent applicable, is
consistent with the rules governing qualification under Section 401(a) of the
Code.

                                  ARTICLE VI

                           Conditions to the Merger

  Section 6.01. Conditions to Obligation of Each Party to Effect the
Merger. The respective obligations of each party to effect the Merger shall be
subject to the satisfaction at or prior to the Effective Time of the following
conditions, any of which may be waived in writing by agreement of all parties
hereto:

    (a) Effectiveness of the Registration Statement. The Registration
  Statement shall have been declared effective by the SEC under the
  Securities Act. No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
  Registration Statement or any part thereof shall have been issued by the
  SEC and no proceedings for that purpose, and no similar proceeding in
  respect of the Proxy Statement, shall have been initiated or, to the
  knowledge of EAST or WEST, threatened by the SEC.

    (b) Stockholder Approval. This Agreement shall have been approved and
  adopted, and the Merger shall have been approved and adopted, by the
  requisite vote, under applicable law, by the stockholders of WEST and EAST,
  respectively; and the issuance of shares of EAST Common Stock by virtue of
  the Merger shall have been approved by the requisite vote under the rules
  of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. by the stockholders
  of EAST.

    (c) No Injunctions or Restraints; Illegality. No temporary restraining
  order, preliminary or permanent injunction or other order issued by any
  court of competent jurisdiction or other legal or regulatory restraint or
  prohibition (an "Injunction") preventing the consummation of the Merger
  shall be in effect, nor shall any proceeding brought by any administrative
  agency or commission or other governmental authority or instrumentality,
  domestic or foreign, seeking any of the foregoing be pending; and there
  shall not be any action taken, or any statute, rule, regulation or order
  enacted, entered, enforced or deemed applicable to the Merger, which makes
  the consummation of the Merger illegal or prevents or prohibits the Merger.

    (d) Tax Opinions. EAST and WEST shall have received substantially
  identical written opinions of Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP ("TH&T") and
  Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. ("WSG&R"), respectively, in form and
  substance reasonably satisfactory to them to the effect that the Merger
  will constitute a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368 of the
  Code, and such opinions shall not have been withdrawn; provided, however,
  that if either TH&T or WSG&R is unwilling to give the opinion required in
  this Section 6.01(d), this condition may be satisfied by the other firm
  delivering such opinion to both EAST and WEST. In rendering such opinions,
  counsel shall be entitled to rely upon, among other

                                     A-35
<PAGE>

  things, reasonable assumptions as well as representations of EAST, Merger
  Sub and WEST, and certain stockholders of WEST.

    (e) Nasdaq Listing. The EAST Common Stock issuable to stockholders of
  WEST pursuant to this Agreement and such other shares required to be
  reserved in connection with the Merger shall have been approved for
  listing, subject to notice of issuance, on Nasdaq.

    (f) Opinion of Accountants. Each of EAST and WEST shall have received
  letters from each of Deloitte & Touche LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
  each dated within two (2) business days prior to the Effective Time,
  regarding those firms' concurrence with EAST's managements' and WEST's
  managements' conclusions as to the appropriateness of pooling of interest
  accounting for the Merger under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 16,
  if the Merger is consummated in accordance with this Agreement.

    (g) Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. The waiting period applicable to the
  consummation of the Merger under the HSR Act shall have expired or been
  terminated. All declarations and filings required to be made prior to the
  Effective Time with, and all consents, approvals, authorizations and
  permits required to be obtained prior to the Effective Time from, any
  Governmental Entity in connection with the consummation of the Merger and
  the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Certificate of
  Merger shall have been made or obtained (as the case may be), except where
  the failure to obtain such consents, approvals, authorizations and permits,
  individually or in the aggregate, could not reasonably be expected, in the
  reasonable opinion of EAST, to result in a Material Adverse Effect on EAST,
  Merger Sub or WEST or to materially adversely affect or delay the
  consummation of the Merger.

  Section 6.02. Additional Conditions to Obligations of EAST and Merger
Sub. The obligations of EAST and Merger Sub to effect the Merger shall be
subject to the satisfaction at or prior to the Effective Time of the following
conditions, any of which may be waived in writing by EAST:

    (a) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of
  WEST contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all respects
  on and as of the Effective Time, with the same force and effect as if made
  on and as of the Effective Time, except for (i) changes contemplated by
  this Agreement, (ii) those representations and warranties which address
  matters only as of a particular date (which shall remain true and correct
  as of such date) and (iii) in the case of those portions of representations
  and warranties not explicitly qualified as to Material Adverse Effect,
  where the failure to be true and correct, individually or in the aggregate,
  has not had (except as shall have been cured) and could not reasonably be
  expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on WEST, and EAST and Merger Sub
  shall have received a certificate to such effect signed by the President
  and Chief Financial Officer of WEST;

    (b) Agreements and Covenants. WEST shall have performed or complied in
  all material respects with all agreements, covenants, obligations and
  conditions required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by
  it on or prior to the Effective Time, and EAST and Merger Sub shall have
  received a certificate to such effect signed by the President and Chief
  Financial Officer of WEST;

    (c) Consents Obtained. All consents, waivers, approvals or authorizations
  of NationsBanc, N.A. (or such other bank providing a substitute credit
  facility not less favorable to WEST) and all other consents, waivers,
  approvals, authorizations or orders required to be obtained, and all
  filings required to be made, by WEST for the authorization, execution and
  delivery of this Agreement and the consummation by it of the transactions
  contemplated hereby shall have been obtained and made by WEST, except
  (other than with respect to NationsBanc, N.A. or such substitute lender)
  where the failure could not reasonably be expected to have a Material
  Adverse Effect on WEST, EAST or the Surviving Corporation or a material
  adverse effect on the ability of the parties to consummate the Merger;

    (d) Governmental Actions. There shall not have been instituted, pending
  or threatened any action or proceeding (or any investigation or other
  inquiry that could reasonably be expected to result in such an action or
  proceeding) by any Governmental Entity or administrative agency before any
  Governmental Entity, administrative agency or court of competent
  jurisdiction, nor shall there be in effect any judgment, decree,
  preliminary or permanent injunction, temporary restraining order, or other
  order of any

                                     A-36
<PAGE>

  Governmental Entity, administrative agency or court of competent
  jurisdiction, in either case, (i) seeking to prohibit, limit or restrict
  EAST from exercising all material rights and privileges pertaining to its
  ownership of the Surviving Corporation or the ownership or operation by
  EAST or any of its subsidiaries of all or a material portion of the
  business or assets of EAST or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) seeking to
  prohibit, limit or restrict EAST's conduct or operation of the business of
  WEST and its subsidiaries following the Merger, or (iii) seeking to compel
  EAST or any of its subsidiaries to dispose of or hold separate all or any
  material portion of the business or assets of EAST, WEST or any of their
  respective subsidiaries, as a result of the Merger or the transactions
  contemplated by this Agreement;

    (e) Material Adverse Change. Since the date of this Agreement, there
  shall have been no Material Adverse Effect on WEST;

    (f) WEST Affiliate Agreements. EAST shall have received from each WEST
  Affiliate a WEST Affiliate Agreement, and each such WEST Affiliate
  Agreement shall be in full force and effect; and

    (g) Tax Certificate. WEST shall have delivered to EAST a clearance
  certificate or similar document(s) which may be required by any tax
  authority to relieve EAST of any obligation to withhold taxes in connection
  with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

  Section 6.03. Additional Conditions to Obligation of WEST. The obligation of
WEST to effect the Merger shall be subject to the satisfaction at or prior to
the Effective Time of the following conditions, any of which may be waived in
writing by WEST:

    (a) Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of
  EAST and Merger Sub contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct
  in all respects on and as of the Effective Time, with the same force and
  effect as if made on and as of the Effective Time, except for (i) changes
  contemplated by this Agreement, (ii) those representations and warranties
  which address matters only as of a particular date (which shall remain true
  and correct as of such date) and (iii) in the case of those portions of
  representations and warranties not explicitly qualified as to Material
  Adverse Effect, where the failure to be true and correct, individually or
  in the aggregate, has not had (except as shall have been cured) and could
  not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on EAST and
  Merger Sub, and WEST shall have received a certificate to such effect
  signed by the President and Chief Financial Officer of EAST;

    (b) Agreements and Covenants. EAST and Merger Sub shall have performed or
  complied in all material respects with all agreements, covenants,
  obligations and conditions required by this Agreement to be performed or
  complied with by them on or prior to the Effective Time, and WEST shall
  have received a certificate to such effect signed by the President and
  Chief Financial Officer of EAST;

    (c) Consents Obtained. All consents, waivers, approvals, authorizations
  or orders required to be obtained, and all filings required to be made, by
  EAST and Merger Sub for the authorization, execution and delivery of this
  Agreement and the consummation by them of the transactions contemplated
  hereby shall have been obtained and made by EAST and Merger Sub, except
  where the failure could not reasonably be expected to have a Material
  Adverse Effect on WEST, EAST or the Surviving Corporation or a material
  adverse effect on the ability of the parties to consummate the Merger;

    (d) Material Adverse Change. Since the date of this Agreement, there
  shall have been no Material Adverse Effect on EAST; and

    (e) EAST Affiliate Agreements.  WEST shall have received from each EAST
  Affiliate an EAST Affiliate Agreement, and each such EAST Affiliate
  Agreement shall be in full force and effect.

                                     A-37
<PAGE>

                                  ARTICLE VII

                                  Termination

  Section 7.01. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated at any time
prior to the Effective Time, notwithstanding approval thereof by the
stockholders of WEST and EAST:

    (a) by mutual written consent duly authorized by the Boards of Directors
  of EAST and WEST; or

    (b) by either EAST or WEST if the Closing shall not have occurred on or
  before September 30, 1999 (the "End Date") (provided, that a later date may
  be agreed upon in writing by the parties hereto and provided, further, that
  the right to terminate this Agreement under this Section 7.01(b) shall not
  be available to any party whose willful breach of this Agreement has been
  the cause of or resulted in the failure of the Merger to occur on or before
  such date); or

    (c) by either EAST or WEST if a court of competent jurisdiction or
  governmental, regulatory or administrative agency or commission shall have
  issued a non-appealable final order, decree or ruling or taken any other
  action, in each case having the effect of permanently restraining,
  enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the Merger; or

    (d) by (i) EAST if the required approval of the stockholders of WEST
  contemplated by this Agreement shall not have been obtained by reason of
  the failure to obtain the requisite vote upon a vote taken at a meeting of
  stockholders convened therefor or at any adjournment thereof or (ii) WEST
  if the required approval of the stockholders of EAST contemplated by this
  Agreement shall not have been obtained by reason of the failure to obtain
  the requisite vote upon a vote taken at a meeting of stockholders convened
  therefor or at any adjournment thereof; or

    (e) by EAST, (i) upon a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant
  or agreement on the part of WEST set forth in this Agreement, or if any
  representation or warranty of WEST shall have become untrue, in either case
  such that the conditions set forth in Section 6.02(a) or Section 6.02(b)
  would not be satisfied as of the time of such breach or as of the time such
  representation or warranty shall have become untrue, provided that if such
  inaccuracy in WEST's representations and warranties or breach by WEST is
  curable by WEST through the exercise of its commercially reasonable efforts
  within fifteen (15) business days of receipt by WEST of written notice
  thereof, EAST may not terminate this Agreement under this Section
  7.01(e)(i) during such fifteen (15) business day period, so long as WEST
  continues to exercise such commercially reasonable efforts or if such
  breach is cured, and provided further that the right to terminate this
  Agreement by EAST under this Section 7.01(e)(i) shall not be available to
  EAST where EAST is at that time in willful breach of this Agreement; (ii)
  if the Board of Directors of WEST shall have withheld, withdrawn, or
  modified its recommendation of this Agreement or the Merger in a manner
  adverse to EAST or shall have resolved to do any of the foregoing, provided
  that the right to terminate this Agreement by EAST under this Section
  7.01(e)(ii) shall not be available to EAST where EAST is at that time in
  willful breach of this Agreement, or (iii) for any reason WEST fails to
  call and hold the WEST Stockholders' Meeting by the End Date and WEST is at
  that time in willful breach of this Agreement, provided that the right to
  terminate this Agreement by EAST under this Section 7.01(e)(iii) shall not
  be available to EAST where EAST is at that time in willful breach of this
  Agreement;

    (f) by WEST (i) upon a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant
  or agreement on the part of EAST set forth in this Agreement, or if any
  representation or warranty of EAST shall have become untrue, in either case
  such that the conditions set forth in Section 6.03(a) or Section 6.03(b)
  would not be satisfied as of the time of such breach or as of the time such
  representation or warranty shall have become untrue, provided that if such
  inaccuracy in EAST's representations and warranties or breach by EAST is
  curable by EAST through the exercise of its commercially reasonable efforts
  within fifteen (15) business days of receipt by EAST of written notice
  thereof, WEST may not terminate this Agreement under this Section
  7.01(f)(i) during such fifteen (15) business day period, so long as EAST
  continues to exercise such commercially reasonable efforts or if such
  breach is cured, and provided further that the right to terminate this
  Agreement by WEST under this Section 7.01(f)(i) shall not be available to
  WEST where WEST is at that time in willful

                                     A-38
<PAGE>

  breach of this Agreement; (ii) if the Board of Directors of EAST shall have
  withheld, withdrawn or modified its recommendation of this Agreement or the
  Merger in a manner adverse to WEST or shall have resolved to do any of the
  foregoing, provided that the right to terminate this Agreement by WEST
  under this Section 7.01(f)(ii) shall not be available to WEST where WEST is
  at that time in willful breach of this Agreement, or (iii) for any reason
  EAST fails to call and hold the EAST Stockholders' Meeting by the End Date
  and EAST is at that time in willful breach of this Agreement, provided that
  the right to terminate this Agreement by WEST under this Section
  7.01(f)(iii) shall not be available to WEST where WEST is at that time in
  willful breach of this Agreement;

    (g) by either WEST or EAST, if WEST shall have accepted a Superior
  Proposal or if the Board of Directors of WEST recommends a Superior
  Proposal to the stockholders of WEST; or

    (h) by WEST, if there shall have occurred any Material Adverse Effect
  with respect to EAST since the date of this Agreement; provided that if
  such Material Adverse Effect is curable by EAST through the exercise of its
  commercially reasonable efforts within fifteen (15) business days of
  receipt by EAST of written notice thereof, WEST may not terminate this
  Agreement under this Section 7.01(h) during such fifteen (15) business day
  period, so long as EAST continues to exercise such commercially reasonable
  efforts or if such breach is cured and provided further that the right to
  terminate this Agreement by WEST under this Section 7.01(h) shall not be
  available to WEST where WEST is at that time in willful breach of this
  Agreement; or

    (i) by EAST, if there shall have occurred any Material Adverse Effect
  with respect to WEST since the date of this Agreement; provided that if
  such Material Adverse Effect is curable by WEST through the exercise of its
  commercially reasonable efforts within fifteen (15) business days of
  receipt by WEST of written notice thereof, EAST may not terminate this
  Agreement under this Section 7.01(i) during such fifteen (15) business day
  period, so long as WEST continues to exercise such commercially reasonable
  efforts or if such breach is cured and provided further that the right to
  terminate this Agreement by EAST under this Section 7.01(i) shall not be
  available to EAST where EAST is at that time in willful breach of this
  Agreement.

  Section 7.02. Notice of Termination; Effect of Termination.

  (a) Subject to Section 7.02(b), any termination of this Agreement under
Section 7.01 above will be effective immediately upon the delivery of written
notice of the terminating party to the other parties hereto. In the event of
the termination of this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.01, this Agreement
shall forthwith become void and there shall be no liability or obligation on
the part of any party hereto or any of its respective affiliates, directors,
officers or stockholders except nothing herein shall relieve any party from
liability for any willful breach hereof. No termination of this Agreement
shall affect the obligations of the parties contained in the Confidentiality
Agreement, and in Section 5.03 (Confidentiality), Section 7.03 (Fees and
Expenses) hereof, this Section 7.02 and Article VIII, all of which obligations
shall remain in full force and effect and survive termination of this
Agreement in accordance with its terms.

  (b) Any termination of this Agreement by WEST pursuant to Sections 7.01(d)
or 7.01(g) hereof shall be of no force or effect unless at or prior to such
termination WEST shall have paid to EAST any amounts payable pursuant to
Section 7.03(b).

  Section 7.03. Fees and Expenses.

  (a) Except as set forth in this Section 7.03, all fees and expenses incurred
in connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby
(including, without limitation, the fees and expenses of its advisers,
accountants and legal counsel) shall be paid by the party incurring such
expenses, whether or not the Merger is consummated; provided, however, that
EAST and WEST shall share equally all fees and expenses, other than attorneys'
and accountants' fees and expenses, incurred in relation to the printing and
filing of the Proxy Statement (including any preliminary materials related
thereto) and the Registration Statement (including financial statements and
exhibits) and any amendments or supplements thereto.

                                     A-39
<PAGE>

  (b) WEST shall pay EAST a fee of $1,500,000 upon the earliest to occur of
the following events:

      (i) the termination of this Agreement by EAST pursuant to Section
    7.01(e), provided, however, with respect to Section 7.01(e)(i) that
    prior to the occurrence of such breach, there shall have occurred a
    Takeover Proposal; or

      (ii) the termination of this Agreement by EAST or WEST pursuant to
    Section 7.01(g); or

      (iii) the termination of this Agreement by EAST pursuant to Section
    7.01(d) as a result of the failure to receive the requisite vote for
    approval and adoption by the stockholders of WEST at the WEST
    Stockholders' Meeting, if prior to such failure there shall have
    occurred a Takeover Proposal.

    (c) The fee payable pursuant to Section 7.03(b) shall be paid within one
  business day after the first to occur of the events described in Sections
  7.03(b)(i), (ii) and (iii).

                                 ARTICLE VIII

                              General Provisions

  Section 8.01. Effectiveness of Representations, Warranties and
Agreements. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 8.01, the
representations, warranties and agreements of each party hereto shall remain
operative and in full force and effect regardless of any investigation made by
or on behalf of any other party hereto, any person controlling any such party
or any of their officers or directors, whether prior to or after the execution
of this Agreement. The representations, warranties and agreements in this
Agreement shall terminate at the Effective Time or upon the termination of
this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.01, as the case may be, except that the
agreements set forth in Sections 5.03, 5.07, 5.08, 5.09, 5.16, 5.20, 7.02,
7.03 and this Article VIII shall survive the Effective Time and Sections 5.03
and 7.03 shall survive termination. The Confidentiality Agreement shall remain
in full force and effect and shall survive the Effective Time or termination
of this Agreement as provided therein.

  Section 8.02. Notices. All notices and other communications given or made
pursuant hereto shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly
given or made as of the date delivered if delivered personally, three days
after being sent by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid, return
receipt requested), one day after dispatch by recognized overnight courier
(provided delivery is confirmed by the carrier) and upon transmission by
telecopy, confirmed received, to the parties at the following addresses (or at
such other address for a party as shall be specified by like changes of
address):

  (a) If to EAST or Merger Sub:

      ACT Manufacturing, Inc.
      2 Cabot Road
      Hudson, MA 01749
      Attn: President
      Telephone No.: (978) 567-4000
      Facsimile No.: (978) 567-4099

    With a copy to:

      Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP
      High Street Tower
      125 High Street
      Boston, MA 02110
      Attn: John A. Meltaus, Esq.
      Telephone No.: (617) 248-7000
      Facsimile No.: (617) 248-7100

                                     A-40
<PAGE>

  (b) If to WEST:

      CMC Industries, Inc.
      4950 Patrick Henry Drive
      Santa Clara, CA 95054
      Attn: President
      Telephone No.: (408) 982-9999
      Facsimile No.: (408) 982-9922

    With a copy to:

      Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C.
      650 Page Mill Road
      Palo Alto, CA 94304-1050
      Attn: Martin W. Korman, Esq.
      Telephone No.: (650) 493-9300
      Facsimile No.: (650) 493-6811

  Section 8.03. Certain Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement, the term:

    (a) "affiliates" shall have the meaning set forth in Rule 12b-2 of the
  rules and regulations promulgated under the Securities and Exchange Act of
  1934, as amended to date;

    (b) "business day" means any day other than a day on which banks in
  Boston, Massachusetts are required or authorized to be closed;

    (c) "person" means an individual, corporation, partnership, association,
  trust, unincorporated organization, other entity or group (as defined in
  Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act); and

    (d) "subsidiary" or "subsidiaries" of WEST, the Surviving Corporation,
  EAST or any other person means any corporation, partnership, joint venture
  or other legal entity of which WEST, the Surviving Corporation, EAST or
  such other person, as the case may be (either alone or through or together
  with any other subsidiary), owns, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of
  the stock or other equity interests the holders of which are generally
  entitled to vote for the election of the board of directors or other
  governing body of such corporation or other legal entity.

  Section 8.04. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended by the parties hereto
by action taken by or on behalf of their respective Boards of Directors at any
time prior to the Effective Time; provided, however, that, after approval of
the Agreement and the Merger by the stockholders of WEST and EAST, no
amendment may be made which by law requires further approval by such
stockholders without such further approval. This Agreement may not be amended
except by an instrument in writing signed by the parties hereto.

  Section 8.05. Waiver. At any time prior to the Effective Time, any party
hereto may, to the extent legally allowed, with respect to any other party
hereto, (a) extend the time for the performance of any of the obligations or
other acts, (b) waive any inaccuracies in the representations and warranties
contained herein or in any document delivered pursuant hereto and (c) waive
compliance with any of the agreements or conditions contained herein. Any such
extension or waiver shall be valid only if set forth in an instrument in
writing signed by the party or parties to be bound thereby.

  Section 8.06. Headings. The headings contained in this Agreement are for
reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement.

  Section 8.07. Severability. If any term or other provision of this Agreement
becomes or is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid,
illegal or incapable of being enforced by any rule of law, or public policy,
all other conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall nevertheless
remain in full force and effect and the application of such provision to other
persons or circumstances will be interpreted so as to reasonably effect the
intent of the parties hereto. Upon such determination that any term or other
provision is invalid, illegal

                                     A-41
<PAGE>

or incapable of being enforced, the parties hereto shall modify this Agreement
so as to effect the original intent of the parties as closely as possible in
an acceptable manner to the end that transactions contemplated hereby are
fulfilled to the extent possible.

  Section 8.08. Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the documents and
instruments and other agreements specifically referred to herein or delivered
pursuant hereto, including the Exhibits, the Schedules, and the WEST and EAST
Disclosure Schedules constitute the entire agreement, and supersede all prior
agreements and undertakings (other than the Confidentiality Agreement), both
written and oral, among the parties, or any of them, with respect to the
subject matter hereof.

  Section 8.09. Assignment. No party may assign this Agreement or any of its
rights, interests or obligations hereunder without the prior written approval
of the other parties hereto.

  Section 8.10. Parties in Interest. This Agreement shall be binding upon and
inure solely to the benefit of each party hereto, and nothing in this
Agreement is intended to or shall confer upon any other person any right,
benefit or remedy of any nature whatsoever under or by reason of this
Agreement, other than Section 5.09 (which is intended to be for the benefit of
the Indemnified Parties and may be enforced by the Indemnified Parties),
Section 5.21 (which is intended to be for the benefit of the two designees of
WEST) and Section 5.22 (which is intended to be for the benefit of the holders
and future holders of shares of EAST Common Stock issuable with respect to
WEST Stock Options).

  Section 8.11. Failure or Indulgence Not Waiver; Remedies Cumulative. No
failure or delay on the part of any party hereto in the exercise of any right
hereunder shall impair such right or be construed to be a waiver of, or
acquiescence in, any breach of any representation, warranty or agreement
herein, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right preclude
other or further exercise thereof or of any other right. All rights and
remedies existing under this Agreement are cumulative to, and not exclusive
of, any rights or remedies otherwise available and the exercise by a party of
any one remedy will not preclude the exercise of any other remedy.

  Section 8.12. Governing Law. This agreement shall be governed by, and
construed in accordance with, the internal laws of the State of Delaware
applicable to contracts executed and fully performed within the State of
Delaware, regardless of the laws that might otherwise govern under applicable
principles of conflicts of laws. Each of the parties hereto irrevocably
consents to the exclusive jurisdiction of any state or federal court within
the State of Delaware, in connection with any matter based upon or arising out
of this Agreement or the matters contemplated herein, agrees that process may
be served upon them in any manner authorized by the laws of the State of
Delaware for such persons and waives and covenants not to assert or plead any
objection which they might otherwise have to such jurisdiction and such
process.

  Section 8.13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, and by the different parties hereto in separate counterparts,
each of which when executed shall be deemed to be an original but all of which
taken together shall constitute one and the same agreement.

  Section 8.14. Interpretation. When a reference is made in this Agreement to
Exhibits or Schedules, such reference shall be to an Exhibit or Schedule to
this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. The words "include," "includes" and
"including," when used herein shall be deemed in each case to be followed by
the words "without limitation." The phrase "made available" in this Agreement
shall mean the information referred to has been made available if requested by
the party to whom such information is to be made available. The phrases "the
date of this Agreement," "the date hereof," and terms of similar import,
unless the context otherwise requires, shall be deemed to refer to May 10,
1999. The table of contents and headings contained in this Agreement are for
reference purposes only and shall not affect in any way the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement.

                                     A-42
<PAGE>

  Section 8.15. Rules of Construction. The parties hereto agree that they have
been represented by counsel during the negotiation, preparation and execution
of this Agreement and, therefore, waive the application of any law,
regulation, holding or rule of construction providing that ambiguities in an
agreement or other document will be construed against the party drafting such
agreement or document.

                 [REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

                                     A-43
<PAGE>

  In Witness Whereof, EAST, Merger Sub and WEST have caused this Agreement to
be executed as of the date first written above by their respective officers
thereunto duly authorized.

                                          ACT Manufacturing, Inc.

                                                     /s/ John A. Pino
                                          By:__________________________________
                                             John A. Pino President and Chief
                                                     Executive Officer

                                          EAST Acquisition Corp.

                                                     /s/ John A. Pino
                                          By:__________________________________
                                                  John A. Pino President

                                          CMC Industries, Inc.

                                                   /s/ Matthew G. Landa
                                          By:__________________________________
                                              Matthew G. Landa President and
                                                  Chief Executive Officer

                                     A-44
<PAGE>

                                                                        Annex B

                                                    May 10, 1999

Board of Directors
ACT Manufacturing, Inc.
108 Forest Avenue
Hudson, MA 01749

Dear Gentlemen:

  BT Alex. Brown Incorporated ("BT Alex. Brown") has acted as financial
advisor to ACT Manufacturing, Inc. ("Client") in connection with the proposed
merger of Client and CMC Industries, Inc. (the "Company") pursuant to the
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated May 10, 1999, among the Company, Client
and East Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Client ("Client Sub")
(the "Merger Agreement"), which provides, among other things, for the merger
of the Company with and into Client Sub (the "Transaction"), as a result of
which the Company will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Client. As set
forth more fully in the Merger Agreement, as a result of the Transaction, each
share of the Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Company ("Company
Common Stock") not owned directly or indirectly by the Company or Client will
be converted into the right to receive 0.50 shares (the "Exchange Ratio") of
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Client ("Client Common Stock").
The terms and conditions of the Transaction are more fully set forth in the
Merger Agreement.

  You have requested BT Alex. Brown's opinion, as investment bankers, as to
the fairness, from a financial point of view, to Client of the Exchange Ratio.

  In connection with BT Alex. Brown's role as financial advisor to Client, and
in arriving at its opinion, BT Alex. Brown has reviewed certain publicly
available financial and other information concerning the Company and Client
and certain internal and analyses and other information furnished to it by the
Company and Client. BT Alex. Brown has also held discussions with members of
the senior managements of the Company and Client regarding the businesses and
prospects of their respective companies and the joint prospects of a combined
company. In addition, BT Alex. Brown has (i) reviewed the reported prices and
trading activity for Company Common Stock and Client Common Stock, (ii)
compared certain financial and stock market information for the Company and
Client with similar information for certain other companies whose securities
are publicly traded, (iii) reviewed the financial terms of certain recent
business combinations which it deemed comparable in whole or in part, (iv)
reviewed the terms of the Merger Agreement and certain related documents, and
(v) performed such other studies and analyses and considered such other
factors as it deemed appropriate.

  BT Alex. Brown has not assumed responsibility for independent verification
of, and has not independently verified, any information, whether publicly
available or furnished to it, concerning the Company or Client, including,
without limitation, any financial information, forecasts or projections
considered in connection with the rendering of its opinion. Accordingly, for
purposes of its opinion, BT Alex. Brown has assumed and relied upon the
accuracy and completeness of all such information and BT Alex. Brown has not
conducted a physical inspection of any of the properties or assets, and has
not prepared or obtained any independent evaluation or appraisal of any of the
assets or liabilities, of the Company or Client. With respect to the financial
forecasts and projections, including the analyses and forecasts of certain
cost savings, operating efficiencies, revenue effects and financial synergies
expected by Client and the Company to be achieved as a result of the
Transaction (collectively, the "Synergies"), made available to BT Alex. Brown
and used in its analyses, BT Alex. Brown has assumed that they have been
reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently available estimates
and judgments of the management of the Company or Client, as the case may be,
as to the matters covered thereby. In rendering its opinion, BT Alex. Brown
expresses no view as to the reasonableness of such forecasts and projections,
including the Synergies, or the assumptions on which they are based. BT Alex.
Brown's opinion is necessarily based upon economic, market and other
conditions as in effect on, and the information made available to it as of,
the date hereof.

                                      B-1
<PAGE>

  For purposes of rendering its opinion, BT Alex. Brown has assumed that, in
all respects material to its analysis, the representations and warranties of
Client, Client Sub and the Company contained in the Merger Agreement are true
and correct, Client, Client Sub and the Company will each perform all of the
covenants and agreements to be performed by it under the Merger Agreement and
all conditions to the obligations of each of Client, Client Sub and the
Company to consummate the Transaction will be satisfied without any waiver
thereof. BT Alex. Brown has also assumed that all material governmental,
regulatory or other approvals and consents required in connection with the
consummation of the Transaction will be obtained and that in connection with
obtaining any necessary governmental, regulatory or other approvals and
consents, or any amendments, modifications or waivers to any agreements,
instruments or orders to which either Client or the Company is a party or is
subject or by which it is bound, no limitations, restrictions or conditions
will be imposed or amendments, modifications or waivers made that would have a
material adverse effect on Client or the Company or materially reduce the
contemplated benefits of the Transaction to Client. In addition, you have
informed BT Alex. Brown, and accordingly for purposes of rendering its opinion
BT Alex. Brown has assumed, that the Transaction will be tax-free to each of
Client and the Company and their respective stockholders and that the
Transaction will be accounted for as a pooling of interests.

  The opinion is addressed to, and for the use and benefit of, the Board of
Directors of Client and is not a recommendation to the stockholders of Client
to approve the Transaction or the issuance of shares of Client Common Stock in
the Transaction. This opinion is limited to the fairness, from a financial
point of view, to Client of the Exchange Ratio, and BT Alex. Brown expresses
no opinion as to the merits of the underlying decision by Client to engage in
the Transaction.

  BT Alex. Brown (together with its affiliates, the "BT Group") is a register
broker-dealer and member of the New York Stock Exchange. BT Alex. Brown will
be paid a fee for its services as financial advisor to Client in connection
with the Transaction, a substantial portion of which is contingent upon in
consummation of the Transaction. One or more members of the BT Group have,
from time to time, provided investment banking, advisory and other financial
services to Client for which it has received compensation, including the
underwriting of Client's initial public offering of equity on March 30, 1995.
In the ordinary course of business, members of the BT Group may actively trade
in the securities and other instruments and obligations of Client and the
Company for their own accounts and for the accounts of their customers.
Accordingly, the BT Group may at any time hold a long or short position in
such securities, instruments and obligations.

  Based upon and subject to the foregoing, it is BT Alex. Brown's opinion as
investment bankers that the Exchange Ratio is fair, from a financial point of
view, to Client.

                                          Very truly yours,

                                          BT Alex. Brown Incorporated

                                      B-2
<PAGE>

                                                                         Annex C

                                                                    May 10, 1999

Board of Directors
CMC Industries, Inc.
4950 Patrick Henry Drive
Santa Clara, CA 95054

Members of the Board:

   We understand that CMC Industries, Inc. (the "Company"), ACT Manufacturing,
Inc. ("Acquiror") and EAST Acquisition Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of
Acquiror, "Merger Sub") are proposing to enter into an Agreement and Plan of
Merger and Reorganization (the "Agreement") which will provide, among other
things, for the merger (the "Merger") of Merger Sub with and into the Company.
Upon consummation of the Merger, the Company will become a wholly owned
subsidiary of Acquiror. Under the terms set forth in the Agreement, at the
effective time of the Merger, each outstanding share of common stock of the
Company, par value $0.01 per share ("Company Common Stock"), other than certain
shares to be canceled pursuant to the Agreement and shares held by stockholders
who properly exercise dissenters' rights ("Dissenting Shares"), will be
converted into the right to receive a number of shares of the common stock of
Acquiror, par value $0.01 per share ("Acquiror Common Stock"), equal to 0.50
(the "Exchange Ratio"). The terms and conditions of the Merger are set out more
fully in the Agreement.

   You have asked us whether, in our opinion, the Exchange Ratio is fair from a
financial point of view and as of the date hereof to the "Holders of Company
Common Stock". The "Holders of Company Common Stock" shall be defined as all
holders of Company Common Stock other than Acquiror, Merger Sub, any affiliates
of Acquiror or Merger Sub or any holders of Dissenting Shares.

   For purposes of this opinion we have, among other things:

     (i) reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other
  business and financial information of the Company and Acquiror;

     (ii) reviewed certain internal financial statements and other financial
  and operating data concerning the Company and Acquiror, including
  information relating to certain strategic, financial and operational
  benefits anticipated from the Merger, prepared by the managements of the
  Company and Acquiror, respectively;

     (iii) reviewed certain financial forecasts and other forward looking
  financial information prepared by the managements of the Company and
  Acquiror;

     (iv) held discussions with the respective managements of the Company and
  Acquiror concerning the businesses, past and current operations, financial
  condition and future prospects of both the Company and Acquiror,
  independently and combined, including discussions with the managements of
  the Company and Acquiror concerning cost savings and other synergies that
  are expected to result from the Merger as well as their views regarding the
  strategic rationale for the Merger;

     (v) reviewed the financial terms and conditions set forth in the
  Agreement;

     (vi) reviewed the stock price and trading history of the Company and
  Acquiror;

     (vii) compared the financial performance of the Company and the Acquiror
  and the prices and trading activity of Company Common Stock and Acquiror
  Common Stock with that of certain other publicly traded companies
  comparable with the Company and Acquiror, respectively;

     (viii) compared the financial terms of the Merger with the financial
  terms, to the extent publicly available, of other transactions that we
  deemed relevant;

     (ix) reviewed the pro forma impact of the Merger on Acquiror's earnings
  per share;

     (x) reviewed the relative contributions of the Company and Acquiror to
  the combined company;

                                      C-1
<PAGE>

     (xi) participated in discussions and negotiations among representatives
  of the Company and Acquiror and their financial, legal and accounting
  advisors;

     (xii) prepared a discounted cash flow analysis of the Company; and

     (xiii) made such other studies and inquiries, and reviewed such other
  data, as we deemed relevant.

   In our review and analysis, and in arriving at our opinion, we have assumed
and relied upon the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and
other information provided to us (including information furnished to us orally
or otherwise discussed with us by management of the Company and Acquiror) or
publicly available and have neither attempted to verify, nor assumed
responsibility for verifying, any of such information. We have relied upon the
assurances of management of the Company and Acquiror that they are not aware
of any facts that would make such information inaccurate or misleading.
Furthermore, we did not obtain or make, or assume any responsibility for
obtaining or making, any independent evaluation or appraisal of the
properties, assets or liabilities (contingent or otherwise) of the Company or
Acquiror, nor were we furnished with any such evaluation or appraisal. With
respect to the financial forecasts and projections (and the assumptions and
bases therefor, including synergies related to the Transaction) for each of
the Company and Acquiror that we have reviewed, upon the advice of the
managements of the Company and Acquiror, we have assumed that such forecasts
and projections, including synergies, have been reasonably prepared in good
faith on the basis of reasonable assumptions and reflect the best currently
available estimates and judgments as to the future financial condition and
performance of the Company and Acquiror, respectively, and we have further
assumed that such projections and forecasts will be realized in the amounts
and in the time periods currently estimated. In this regard, we note that each
of the Company and Acquiror face exposure to the Year 2000 problem. We have
not undertaken any independent analysis to evaluate the reliability or
accuracy of the assumptions made by the managements of the Company and
Acquiror with respect to the potential effect that the Year 2000 problem might
have on their respective forecasts. We have assumed that the Merger will be
consummated upon the terms set forth in the Agreement without material
alteration thereof, including among other things, that the Merger will be
accounted for as a pooling-of-interests business combination in accordance
with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and that the
Merger will be treated as a tax-free reorganization pursuant to the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. In addition, we have assumed that the
historical financial statements of each of the Company and Acquiror reviewed
by us have been prepared and fairly presented in accordance with GAAP
consistently applied. We have relied as to all legal matters relevant to
rendering our opinion on the advice of counsel.

   This opinion is necessarily based upon market, economic and other
conditions as in effect on, and information made available to us as of, the
date hereof. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect
the conclusion expressed in this opinion and that we disclaim any undertaking
or obligation to advise any person of any change in any matter affecting this
opinion which may come or be brought to our attention after the date of this
opinion. Our opinion is limited to the fairness, from a financial point of
view and as to the date hereof, to the Holders of Company Common Stock of the
Exchange Ratio. We do not express any opinion as to (i) the value of any
employee agreement or other arrangement entered into in connection with the
Merger, (ii) any tax or other consequences that might result from the Merger
or (iii) what the value of Acquiror Common Stock will be when issued to the
Company's stockholders pursuant to the Merger or the price at which the shares
of Acquiror Common Stock that are issued pursuant to the Merger may be traded
in the future. Our opinion does not address the relative merits of the Merger
and the other business strategies that the Company's Board of Directors has
considered or may be considering, nor does it address the decision of the
Company's Board of Directors to proceed with the Merger.

   We are acting as financial advisor to the Company in connection with the
Merger and will receive (i) a fee contingent upon the delivery of this opinion
and (ii) an additional fee contingent upon the consummation of the Merger. In
addition, the Company has agreed to indemnify us for certain liabilities that
may arise out of the rendering of this opinion. We maintain a market in the
shares of Company Common Stock. In the ordinary course of business, we may
trade in the Company's securities and Acquiror's securities for our own
account and the account of our customers and, accordingly, may at any time
hold a long or short position in the Company's securities or Acquiror's
securities.

                                      C-2
<PAGE>

   Our opinion expressed herein is provided for the information of the Board of
Directors of the Company in connection with its evaluation of the Merger. Our
opinion is not intended to be and does not constitute a recommendation to any
stockholder of the Company or Acquiror as to how such stockholder should vote,
or take any other action, with respect to the Merger. This opinion may not be
summarized, described or referred to or furnished to any party except with our
express prior written consent.

   Based upon and subject to the foregoing consideration, it is our opinion
that, as of the date hereof, the Exchange Ratio is fair to the Holders of the
Company Common Stock from a financial point of view.

                                          Very truly yours,

                                          BancBoston Robertson Stephens Inc.

                                      C-3
<PAGE>

                                                                        Annex D

                             EAST VOTING AGREEMENT

  This EAST Voting Agreement dated as of May 10, 1999 (the "Agreement") by and
between CMC Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("WEST"), and the
stockholder who is a signatory hereto (the "Major Stockholder") of ACT
Manufacturing, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation ("EAST"). Capitalized terms
not defined herein have the meanings assigned to them in the Agreement and
Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the "Merger Agreement") dated the date
hereof by and among EAST, EAST Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and
wholly-owned subsidiary of EAST ("Merger Sub"), and WEST.

                                  WITNESSETH:

  WHEREAS, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and
into WEST (the "Merger"), with WEST continuing as the surviving corporation
and as a wholly owned subsidiary of EAST, on the terms and conditions set
forth therein; and

  WHEREAS, to induce WEST to enter into the Merger Agreement, the Major
Stockholder, as a principal stockholder of EAST, has agreed to enter into this
Agreement;

  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements,
provisions and covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties hereby agree
as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                                   Covenants

  1.1 Covenants and Agreements. The Major Stockholder hereby covenants and
agrees with WEST as follows:

    1.1(a) Cooperation. He shall cooperate fully with WEST, EAST and Merger
  Sub in furnishing any information or performing any action reasonably
  requested by any such party, which information or action is necessary or
  appropriate for the efficient and successful consummation of the
  transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. He shall use
  commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Closing to occur at the
  earliest practical time.

    1.1(b) Other Required Information. He shall furnish to WEST, EAST and
  Merger Sub all information concerning himself and his affiliates, if
  applicable, as is required to be set forth in any application or statement
  to be filed with any Governmental Entity in connection with the
  transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or otherwise.

    1.1(c) Publicity. Except as otherwise required by applicable law or stock
  exchange or securities market regulations, he shall not issue any press
  release or make any other public statement concerning the Merger without
  obtaining the prior approval of WEST to the contents and the manner of
  presentation and publication thereof.

    1.1(d) Restriction on Sales of EAST Common Stock. He agrees to comply
  with the restrictions on transfer of shares of EAST Common Stock set forth
  in that certain EAST Affiliate Agreement of even date herewith.
  Notwithstanding that the Major Stockholder may be permitted to transfer
  shares of EAST Common Stock in accordance with the terms of the EAST
  Affiliate Agreement, the Major Stockholder agrees not to transfer any such
  shares unless each transferee to which any such shares or any interest in
  any such shares, is or may be transferred shall have executed a counterpart
  of this Agreement and agreed in writing to hold such shares (or interest in
  such shares) subject to all of the terms and provisions of this Agreement.


                                      D-1
<PAGE>

    1.1(e) Agreement to Vote Shares. At every meeting of the stockholders of
  EAST held on or prior to the Expiration Date, and at every adjournment
  thereof, and on every action or approval by written consent of the
  stockholders of EAST, he shall vote all shares of EAST capital stock owned
  by him: (i) in favor of approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement and
  the Merger and any matter that could reasonably be expected to facilitate
  the Merger and (ii) against approval of any proposal made in opposition to
  or competition with consummation of the Merger (an "Opposing Proposal").
  "Expiration Date" shall mean the earlier of (i) such time as the Merger
  shall become effective in accordance with the terms and provisions of the
  Merger Agreement and (ii) such time as the Merger Agreement shall have been
  terminated pursuant to Article VII thereof.

    1.1(f) Agreement to Grant Proxy. He shall execute and deliver to WEST
  within five days of WEST's written request therefor a valid and binding
  irrevocable proxy in any form reasonably proposed by WEST granting WEST (or
  its designees) the authority to vote his shares of capital stock of EAST in
  accordance with and subject to the limitation of Section 1.1(e).

    1.1(g) No Proxy Solicitations. Except as required by law, including
  actions which he determines after consultation with counsel are required
  pursuant to his fiduciary duties as a Director (as defined below) under
  applicable law, he shall not, and will not permit any person under his
  control to: (i) solicit proxies or become a "participant" in a
  "solicitation" (as such terms are defined in Regulation 14A under the
  Exchange Act) with respect to an Opposing Proposal; or (ii) initiate a
  stockholders' vote or action by consent of EAST stockholders with respect
  to an Opposing Proposal.

    1.1(h) Obligations as Director and/or Officer. If at any time prior to
  the expiration of this Agreement, the Major Stockholder or a representative
  of the Major Stockholder is also a member of the Board of Directors of EAST
  ("Director") or an officer of EAST, nothing in this Agreement shall limit
  or restrict the Director or officer in acting in his capacity as a director
  or officer, as the case may be, of EAST and exercising his fiduciary duties
  and responsibilities, it being agreed and understood that this Agreement
  shall apply to the Major Stockholder solely in his capacity as a
  stockholder and shall not apply to the Director's or officer's actions,
  judgments or decisions as a director or officer of EAST.

    1.1(i) No Proxies. The Major Stockholder agrees not to grant any proxies
  (except pursuant to Section 1.1(f) of this Agreement) or to enter into any
  agreement (other than this Agreement) with respect to the voting of shares
  of EAST Common Stock held by him that are inconsistent with or in conflict
  with the intent of this Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE II

                        Representations and Warranties

  2.1 Representations and Warranties of the Major Stockholder. The Major
Stockholder hereby represents and warrants to WEST as follows:

    2.1(a) Binding Agreement. This Agreement has been duly executed and
  delivered by the Major Stockholder and constitutes a valid and binding
  agreement of the Major Stockholder, enforceable against the Major
  Stockholder in accordance with its terms.

    2.1(b) Governmental Authorization. The execution, delivery and
  performance by him of this Agreement does not require any action on his
  part by or in respect of, or declaration, filing or registration with, any
  Governmental Entity.

    2.1(c) Non-Contravention. The execution, delivery and performance by him
  of this Agreement does not and will not, to his knowledge, contravene or
  conflict with or constitute a violation of any provision of any law,
  regulation, judgment, injunction, order or decree binding upon or
  applicable to him.


                                      D-2
<PAGE>

    2.1(d) Litigation. There is no action, suit, investigation or proceeding
  (or to the knowledge of the Major Stockholder any basis therefor) pending
  against or, to the knowledge of the Major Stockholder, threatened against
  or affecting, the Major Stockholder before any court or arbitrator or any
  governmental body, agency, official or authority that in any manner
  challenges or seeks to prevent, enjoin, alter or materially delay the
  transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the Merger Agreement.

    2.1(e) Finders' Fees. There is no investment banker, broker, finder or
  other intermediary that has been retained by or is authorized to act on
  behalf of the Major Stockholder who might be entitled to any fee or
  commission from EAST, WEST or any of their affiliates upon consummation of
  the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the Merger Agreement.

    2.1(f) Ownership of Stock. The Major Stockholder is the record and
  beneficial owner of the shares of EAST Common Stock set forth in the
  Affiliate Agreement, and owns all such shares free and clear of any and all
  liens, pledges, charges, security interests, restrictions or encumbrances
  of any kind or any rights of first refusal (other than in favor of EAST),
  voting trusts, proxies or other arrangements or understandings, whether
  written or oral, and Major Stockholder has the sole and exclusive right and
  power to exercise all voting rights and other rights with respect to such
  shares.

                                  ARTICLE III

                                 Miscellaneous

  3.1 Survival; Termination.

    3.1(a) All representations and warranties in this Agreement shall survive
  the Closing. Any investigation or other examination that may have been made
  or may be made at any time by or on behalf of the party to whom
  representations and warranties are made shall not limit, diminish or in any
  way affect the representations and warranties in this Agreement, and the
  parties may rely on the representations and warranties in this Agreement
  irrespective of any information obtained by them by any investigation,
  examination or otherwise.

    3.1(b) The covenants contained in Sections 1.1(a), 1.1(b), 1.1(c),
  1.1(e), 1.1(f), and 1.1(g), (but not any liability for any willful breach
  thereof) shall terminate at the Effective Time. All other covenants
  contained in this Agreement shall survive the Merger.

    3.1(c) This Agreement shall terminate in all respects upon termination of
  the Merger Agreement (but not any liability for any willful breach hereof).

  3.2 Specific Performance. Each of the parties to this Agreement hereby
acknowledges that the other party will have no adequate remedy at law if it
fails to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement. In such event,
each of the parties agrees that the other party shall have the right, in
addition to any other rights it may have (whether at law or in equity), to
specific performance of this Agreement.

  3.3 Parties in Interest. All the terms and provisions of this Agreement
shall be binding upon, shall inure to the benefit of and shall be enforceable
by the respective successors and permitted assigns of the parties hereto.
Nothing expressed or implied in this Agreement is intended or shall be
construed to confer upon or give any person, firm or corporation other than
the parties hereto, their permitted successors or assigns, and their
respective stockholders any rights or remedies under or by reason of this
Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby.

  3.4 Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Merger Agreement (together with
the Exhibits and Schedules thereto and the other documents delivered pursuant
thereto) constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede all
prior agreements and understandings, both written and oral, between the
parties, or any of them, with respect to the subject matter hereof.

                                      D-3
<PAGE>

  3.5 Amendment or Modification. At any time before or after the adoption of
the Merger Agreement by the stockholders of EAST or the approval of the
proposals contained in the Proxy Statement by the stockholders of EAST and
WEST, this Agreement may be amended or supplemented by additional agreements,
articles or certificates, in writing, as may be determined by the parties
hereto to be necessary, desirable or expedient to further the purposes of this
Agreement, or to clarify the intention of the parties hereto, or to add to or
to modify the covenants, terms or conditions hereof or to effect or facilitate
any governmental approval or acceptance of the Merger or of this Agreement or
to effect or facilitate the filing or recording of the Agreement or the
consummation of any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.

  3.6 No Waiver. The failure of any party hereto to enforce at any time any of
the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver
of any such provision, nor in any way to affect the validity of this Agreement
or any part hereof or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and
every such provision. No waiver of any breach of or non-compliance with this
Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach or
non-compliance.

  3.7 Assignability. This Agreement shall not be assignable by WEST, on the
one hand, or the Major Stockholder, on the other hand, without the prior
written consent of the Major Stockholder, on the one hand, or WEST, on the
other hand.

  3.8 Headings and Interpretation. The headings contained in this Agreement
are for reference purposes only and shall not affect the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement. Terms such as "herein", "hereof",
"hereinafter" refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to the particular
sentence or paragraph where they appear, unless the context otherwise
requires. Unless the context otherwise requires, (i) terms used in the plural
include the singular, and vice versa, (ii) words in the masculine gender
include the feminine, and vice versa and (iii) the word "it" includes
references to natural persons.

  3.9 Notices. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other communications
under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly
given when received at the addresses set forth in the Merger Agreement, in the
case of WEST, and the books and records of EAST, in the case of the Major
Stockholder, or to such other address as any party may have furnished to the
others in writing in accordance herewith, except that notices of change of
address shall only be effective upon receipt.

  3.10 Law Governing. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and
enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving
effect to the principles of conflicts of law thereof.

  3.11 Invalidity of Provisions. Each of the provisions contained in this
Agreement is distinct and severable and a declaration of invalidity or
unenforceability of any such provision or part thereof by a court of competent
jurisdiction shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision hereof.

  3.12 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in one or
more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

                 [Remainder of page intentionally left blank]

                                      D-4
<PAGE>

  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by
the parties on the date first above written.

                                          CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

                                                  /s/ Matthew G. Landa
                                          By: _________________________________
                                            Name: Matthew G. Landa
                                            Title: President and Chief
                                             Executive Officer

                                          MAJOR STOCKHOLDER

                                                    /s/ John A. Pino
                                          _____________________________________
                                                      John A. Pino

                                          JOHN A. PINO GRANTORRETAINED ANNUITY
                                          TRUST II DATED AUGUST 16, 1996

                                                    /s/ John A. Pino
                                          By: _________________________________
                                            Name: John A. Pino
                                            Title: Trustee

                                          1998 JOHN A. PINO GRANTORRETAINED
                                          ANNUITY TRUST DATEDJUNE 15, 1998

                                                  /s/ Douglas R. Ederle
                                          By: _________________________________
                                            Name: Douglas R. Ederle
                                            Title: Trustee

                                      D-5
<PAGE>

                                                                        Annex E

                             WEST VOTING AGREEMENT

  This WEST Voting Agreement dated as of May 10, 1999 (the "Agreement") by and
among ACT Manufacturing, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation ("EAST"), EAST
Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of
EAST ("Merger Sub"), and the stockholders who are signatories hereto (the
"Major Stockholders") of CMC Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation
("WEST"). Capitalized terms not defined herein have the meanings assigned to
them in the Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the "Merger
Agreement") dated the date hereof by and among EAST, Merger Sub and WEST.

                                  WITNESSETH:

  WHEREAS, pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and
into WEST (the "Merger"), with WEST continuing as the surviving corporation
and as a wholly owned subsidiary of EAST, on the terms and conditions set
forth therein; and

  WHEREAS, to induce EAST to enter into the Merger Agreement, each of the
Major Stockholders, as principal stockholders of WEST, has agreed to enter
into this Agreement;

  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual agreements,
provisions and covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties hereby agree
as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                                   Covenants

  1.1 Covenants and Agreements. Each of the Major Stockholders hereby
covenants and agrees with EAST and Merger Sub as follows:

    1.1(a) Cooperation. It shall cooperate fully with WEST, EAST and Merger
  Sub in furnishing any information or performing any action reasonably
  requested by any such party, which information or action is necessary or
  appropriate for the efficient and successful consummation of the
  transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. It shall use
  commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Closing to occur at the
  earliest practical time.

    1.1(b) Other Required Information. It shall furnish to WEST, EAST and
  Merger Sub all information concerning itself and its subsidiaries and
  affiliates, if applicable, as is required to be set forth in any
  application or statement to be filed with any Governmental Entity in
  connection with the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement or
  otherwise.

    1.1(c) Publicity. Except as otherwise required by applicable law or stock
  exchange or securities market regulations, it shall not issue any press
  release or make any other public statement concerning the Merger without
  obtaining the prior approval of EAST to the contents and the manner of
  presentation and publication thereof.

    1.1(d) Restriction on Sales of WEST Common Stock and EAST Common
  Stock. It agrees to comply with the restrictions on transfer of shares of
  WEST Common Stock or EAST Common Stock set forth in that certain WEST
  Affiliate Agreement of even date herewith. Notwithstanding that it may be
  permitted to transfer shares of WEST Common Stock or EAST Common Stock in
  accordance with the terms of the WEST Affiliate Agreement, it agrees not to
  transfer any such shares unless each transferee to which any such shares,
  or any interest in any such shares, is or may be transferred shall have
  executed a counterpart of this Agreement and agreed in writing to hold such
  shares (or interest in such shares) subject to all of the terms and
  provisions of this Agreement.


                                      E-1
<PAGE>

    1.1(e) Other Negotiations. It agrees to fully comply with the provisions
  of Section 4.03 (No Solicitation) of the Merger Agreement.

    1.1(f) Agreement to Vote Shares. At every meeting of the stockholders of
  WEST held on or prior to the Expiration Date, and at every adjournment
  thereof, and on every action or approval by written consent of the
  stockholders of WEST, it shall vote all shares of WEST capital stock owned
  by it: (i) in favor of approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement and
  the Merger and any matter that could reasonably be expected to facilitate
  the Merger and (ii) against approval of any proposal made in opposition to
  or competition with consummation of the Merger (an "Opposing Proposal").
  "Expiration Date" shall mean the earlier of (i) such time as the Merger
  shall become effective in accordance with the terms and provisions of the
  Merger Agreement and (ii) such time as the Merger Agreement shall have been
  terminated pursuant to Article VII thereof.

    1.1(g) Agreement to Grant Proxy. It shall execute and deliver to EAST
  within five days of EAST's written request therefor a valid and binding
  irrevocable proxy in any form reasonably proposed by EAST granting EAST (or
  its designees) the authority to vote its shares of capital stock of WEST in
  accordance with and subject to the limitations of Section 1.1(f).

    1.1(h) No Proxy Solicitations. Except as required by law, including, if
  applicable, actions which it determines after consultation with counsel are
  required pursuant to its fiduciary duties as a Director (as defined below)
  under applicable law, it shall not, and will not permit any person under
  its control to: (i) solicit proxies or become a "participant" in a
  "solicitation" (as such terms are defined in Regulation 14A under the
  Exchange Act) with respect to an Opposing Proposal; or (ii) initiate a
  stockholders' vote or action by consent of WEST stockholders with respect
  to an Opposing Proposal.

    1.1(i) Obligations as Director and/or Officer. If at any time prior to
  the expiration of this Agreement, the Major Stockholder or a representative
  of the Major Stockholder is also a member of the Board of Directors of WEST
  ("Director") or an officer of WEST, nothing in this Agreement shall limit
  or restrict the Director or officer in acting in his or her capacity as a
  Director or officer, as the case may be, of WEST and exercising his or her
  fiduciary duties and responsibilities, it being agreed and understood that
  this Agreement shall apply to the Major Stockholder solely in its capacity
  as a stockholder and shall not apply to the Director's or officer's
  actions, judgments or decisions as a Director or officer of WEST.

    1.1(j) No Proxies. It agrees not to grant any proxies (except pursuant to
  Section 1.1(g) of this Agreement) or to enter into any agreement (other
  than this Agreement) with respect to the voting of shares of WEST Common
  Stock held by it that are inconsistent with or in conflict with the intent
  of this Agreement.

                                  ARTICLE II

                        Representations and Warranties

  2.1 Representations and Warranties of Major Stockholders. Each of the Major
Stockholders hereby represents and warrants to EAST and Merger Sub as follows:

    2.1(a) Existence and Power. If the Major Stockholder is a corporation,
  partnership, limited liability company or trust, it is duly organized,
  validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of
  organization.

    2.1(b) Authorization; Binding Agreement. The execution, delivery and
  performance by the Major Stockholder, if it is a corporation, partnership,
  limited liability company or trust, of this Agreement are within its
  corporate, partnership, limited liability company or trust power and
  authority and have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate,
  partnership, limited liability company or trust action on the part of the
  Major Stockholder. This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by
  the Major Stockholder and constitutes a valid and binding agreement of the
  Major Stockholder, enforceable against the Major Stockholder in accordance
  with its terms.


                                      E-2
<PAGE>

    2.1(c) Governmental Authorization. The execution, delivery and
  performance by it of this Agreement does not require any action on its part
  by or in respect of, or declaration, filing or registration with, any
  Governmental Entity.

    2.1(d) Non-Contravention. The execution, delivery and performance by it
  of this Agreement does not and will not (i) if it is a corporation,
  partnership, limited liability company or trust, contravene or conflict
  with its organizational documents, or (ii) to its knowledge, contravene or
  conflict with or constitute a violation of any provision of any law,
  regulation, judgment, injunction, order or decree binding upon or
  applicable to it.

    2.1(e) Litigation. There is no action, suit, investigation or proceeding
  (or to the knowledge of the Major Stockholder any basis therefor) pending
  against or, to the knowledge of the Major Stockholder, threatened against
  or affecting, the Major Stockholder or any of its respective properties or
  assets before any court or arbitrator or any governmental body, agency,
  official or authority that in any manner challenges or seeks to prevent,
  enjoin, alter or materially delay the transactions contemplated by this
  Agreement or the Merger Agreement.

    2.1(f) Finders' Fees. There is no investment banker, broker, finder or
  other intermediary that has been retained by or is authorized to act on
  behalf of the Major Stockholder who might be entitled to any fee or
  commission from EAST, Merger Sub, WEST or any of their affiliates upon
  consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the
  Merger Agreement.

    2.1(g) Ownership of Stock. The Major Stockholder is the record and
  beneficial owner of the shares of WEST Common Stock set forth in the WEST
  Affiliate Agreement, and owns all such shares free and clear of any and all
  liens, pledges, charges, security interests, restrictions or encumbrances
  of any kind or any rights of first refusal (other than in favor of WEST),
  voting trusts, proxies or other arrangements or understandings, whether
  written or oral, and the Major Stockholder has the sole and exclusive right
  and power to exercise all voting rights and other rights with respect to
  such shares.

                                  ARTICLE III

                                 Miscellaneous

  3.1 Survival; Termination.

    3.1(a) All representations and warranties in this Agreement shall survive
  the Closing. Any investigation or other examination that may have been made
  or may be made at any time by or on behalf of the party to whom
  representations and warranties are made shall not limit, diminish or in any
  way affect the representations and warranties in this Agreement, and the
  parties may rely on the representations and warranties in this Agreement
  irrespective of any information obtained by them by any investigation,
  examination or otherwise.

    3.1(b) The covenants contained in Sections 1.1(a), 1.1(b), 1.1(c),
  1.1(e), 1.1(f), 1.1(g) and 1.1(h) (but not any liability for any willful
  breach thereof) shall terminate at the Effective Time. All other covenants
  contained in this Agreement shall survive the Merger.

    3.1(c) This Agreement shall terminate in all respects upon termination of
  the Merger Agreement (but not any liability for any willful breach hereof).

  3.2 Specific Performance. Each of the parties to this Agreement hereby
acknowledges that the other party will have no adequate remedy at law if it
fails to perform any of its obligations under this Agreement. In such event,
each of the parties agrees that the other party shall have the right, in
addition to any other rights it may have (whether at law or in equity), to
specific performance of this Agreement.

  3.3 Parties in Interest. All the terms and provisions of this Agreement
shall be binding upon, shall inure to the benefit of and shall be enforceable
by the respective successors and permitted assigns of the parties hereto.

                                      E-3
<PAGE>

Nothing expressed or implied in this Agreement is intended or shall be
construed to confer upon or give any person, firm or corporation other than
the parties hereto, their permitted successors or assigns, and their
respective stockholders any rights or remedies under or by reason of this
Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby.

  3.4 Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Merger Agreement (together with
the Exhibits and Schedules thereto and the other documents delivered pursuant
thereto) constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede all
prior agreements and understandings, both written and oral, between the
parties, or any of them, with respect to the subject matter hereof.

  3.5 Amendment or Modification. At any time before or after the adoption of
the Merger Agreement by the stockholders of WEST or the approval of the
proposals contained in the Proxy Statement by the stockholders of EAST and
WEST, this Agreement may be amended or supplemented by additional agreements,
articles or certificates, in writing, as may be determined by the parties
hereto to be necessary, desirable or expedient to further the purposes of this
Agreement, or to clarify the intention of the parties hereto, or to add to or
to modify the covenants, terms or conditions hereof or to effect or facilitate
any governmental approval or acceptance of the Merger or of this Agreement or
to effect or facilitate the filing or recording of the Agreement or the
consummation of any of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.

  3.6 No Waiver. The failure of any party hereto to enforce at any time any of
the provisions of this Agreement shall in no way be construed to be a waiver
of any such provision, nor in any way to affect the validity of this Agreement
or any part hereof or the right of such party thereafter to enforce each and
every such provision. No waiver of any breach of or non-compliance with this
Agreement shall be held to be a waiver of any other or subsequent breach or
non-compliance.

  3.7 Assignability. This Agreement shall not be assignable by the Major
Stockholder, on the one hand, or EAST or Merger Sub, on the other hand,
without the prior written consent of EAST or Merger Sub, on the one hand, or
the Major Stockholder, on the other hand.

  3.8 Headings and Interpretation. The headings contained in this Agreement
are for reference purposes only and shall not affect the meaning or
interpretation of this Agreement. Terms such as "herein", "hereof",
"hereinafter" refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to the particular
sentence or paragraph where they appear, unless the context otherwise
requires. Unless the context otherwise requires, (i) terms used in the plural
include the singular, and vice versa, (ii) words in the masculine gender
include the feminine, and vice versa and (iii) the word "it" includes
references to natural persons.

  3.9 Notices. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other communications
under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly
given when received at the addresses set forth in the Merger Agreement, in the
case of EAST and Merger Sub, and the books and records of WEST, in the case of
the Major Stockholder, or to such other address as any party may have
furnished to the others in writing in accordance herewith, except that notices
of change of address shall only be effective upon receipt.

  3.10 Law Governing. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and
enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without giving
effect to the principles of conflicts of law thereof.

  3.11 Invalidity of Provisions. Each of the provisions contained in this
Agreement is distinct and severable and a declaration of invalidity or
unenforceability of any such provision or part thereof by a court of competent
jurisdiction shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision hereof.

  3.12 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in one or
more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of
which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

                 [Remainder of page intentionally left blank]


                                      E-4
<PAGE>

  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by
the parties on the date first above written.

                                          ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                                                    /s/ John A. Pino
                                          By:__________________________________
                                                       John A. Pino
                                                         President

                                          EAST ACQUISITION CORP.

                                                    /s/ John A. Pino
                                          By: _________________________________
                                                       John A. Pino
                                                         President

                                          MAJOR STOCKHOLDERS

                                          /s/ David S. Lee
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Matthew G. Landa
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Andrew J. Moley
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Frederick Gibbs
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ M. Kenneth Oshman
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Richard M. Moley
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Ira Coron
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Charles Holloway
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Jack O'Rear
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Lanny N. Lambert
                                          _____________________________________

                                          /s/ Karl Chang
                                          _____________________________________

                                      E-5
<PAGE>

                                                                         Annex F

                                                          FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION
                                                                  NO. 04-2777507

                       The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

                             William Francis Galvin
                         Secretary of the Commonwealth
             One Ashburton Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02108-1512

                             ARTICLES OF AMENDMENT
                    (General Laws, Chapter 156B, Section 72)

  We, ________________________ John A. Pin_________________________ ,*oPresident
and _________________________Jeffrey B. Lavin__________________________ ,* Clerk
of __________________________ACT Manufacturing, Inc________________________ ,.
                           (Exact name of
                            corporation)
located at: __________________2 Cabot Road, Hudson, MA 0174_______________ ,9
                            (Street address of
                              corporation in
                              Massachusetts)
certify that these Articles of Amendment affecting articles numbered:
                                       3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         (Number those articles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and/or 6 being amended)
of the Articles of Organization were duly adopted at a meeting held on _ , 1999,
by vote of:
 shares of ________Common Stock, $.01 par valu__________ of  shareseoutstanding,
                       (type, class &
                       series, if any)
 shares of ___________________ _____________________ of  shares outstanding, and
                       (type, class &
                       series, if any)
 shares of _____________________ _______________________ of  shares outstanding.
                       (type, class &
                       series, if any)
/1/**being at least a majority of each type, class or series outstanding and
entitled to vote thereon

*Delete the inapplicable words.
**Delete the inapplicable clause.
/1/For amendments adopted pursuant to Chapter 156B, Section 70.
/2/For amendments adopted pursuant to Chapter 156B, Section 71.
Note: If the space provided under any article or item on this form is
insufficient, additions shall be set forth on one side only of separate 8 1/2 x
11 sheets of paper with a left margin of at least 1 inch. Additions to more
than one article may be made on a single sheet so long as each article
requiring each addition is clearly indicated.

- -------
Examiner

- -------
Name
Approved


C   [_]
P   [_]
M   [_]
R.A.[_]

- -------
P.C.


                                      F-1
<PAGE>

   To change the number of shares and the par value (if any) of any type, class
or series of stock which the corporation is authorized to issue, fill in the
following:

   The total presently authorized is:

    WITHOUT PAR VALUE STOCKS                 WITH PAR VALUE STOCKS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   TYPE      NUMBER OF SHARES      TYPE       NUMBER OF SHARES     PAR VALUE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Common:            0            Common:         30,000,000           $.01
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preferred:          0           Preferred:        5,000,000           $.01
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


   Change the total authorized to:

    WITHOUT PAR VALUE STOCKS                 WITH PAR VALUE STOCKS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   TYPE      NUMBER OF SHARES      TYPE       NUMBER OF SHARES     PAR VALUE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Common:            0            Common:         50,000,000           $.01
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preferred:          0           Preferred:        5,000,000           $.01
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


   The foregoing amendment(s) will become effective when these Articles of
Amendment are filed in accordance with General Laws, Chapter 156B, Section 6
unless these articles specify, in accordance with the vote adopting the
amendment, a later effective date not more than thirty days after such filing,
in which event the amendment will become effective on such later date.

Later effective date: __________________________________________________________

SIGNED UNDER THE PENALTIES OF PERJURY, this  day of , 1999.

                                , *President
- -------------------------------

                                , *Clerk
- -------------------------------

*Delete the inapplicable words.

                                      F- 2
<PAGE>

                       THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

                             ARTICLES OF AMENDMENT

                    (General Laws, Chapter 156B, Section 72)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   I hereby approve the within Articles of Amendment, and the filing fee in the
amount of $          having been paid, said article is deemed to have been
filed with me this      day of          , 1999.

Effective date: ________________________________________________________________

                           /s/ William Francis Galvin

                             WILLIAM FRANCIS GALVIN

                         Secretary of the Commonwealth

                         TO BE FILLED IN BY CORPORATION

                      Photocopy of document to be sent to:

                             Kelly R. Whiting, Esq.
                        Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP
                               High Street Tower
                                125 High Street
                                Boston, MA 02110

                                      F-3
<PAGE>

                                                                         Annex G

                            ACT MANUFACTURING, INC.

                      AMENDED AND RESTATED 1995 STOCK PLAN

   1. Purpose. The purpose of this Amended and Restated 1995 Stock Plan (the
"Plan") is to encourage employees of ACT Manufacturing, Inc. (the "Company")
and of any present or future parent or subsidiary of the Company (collectively,
"Related Corporations") and other individuals who render services to the
Company or a Related Corporation, by providing opportunities to participate in
the ownership of the Company and its future growth through (a) the grant of
options which qualify as "incentive stock options" ("ISOs") under Section
422(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"); (b) the
grant of options which do not qualify as ISOs ("Non-Qualified Options"); (c)
awards of stock in the Company ("Awards"); and (d) opportunities to make direct
purchases of stock in the Company ("Purchases"). Both ISOs and Non-Qualified
Options are referred to hereafter individually as an "Option" and collectively
as "Options." Options, Awards and authorizations to make Purchases are referred
to hereafter collectively as "Stock Rights." As used herein, the terms "parent"
and "subsidiary" mean "parent corporation" and "subsidiary corporation,"
respectively, as those terms are defined in Section 424 of the Code.

   2. Administration of the Plan.

     A. Board or Committee Administration. The Plan shall be administered by
  the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") or by a committee
  appointed by the Board (the "Committee"); provided that the Plan shall be
  administered: (i) to the extent required by applicable regulations under
  Section 162(m) of the Code, by two or more "outside directors" (as defined
  in applicable regulations thereunder) and (ii) to the extent required by
  Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or any
  successor provision ("Rule 16b-3"), by a disinterested administrator or
  administrators within the meaning of Rule 16b-3. Hereinafter, all
  references in this Plan to the "Committee" shall mean the Board if no
  Committee has been appointed. Subject to ratification of the grant or
  authorization of each Stock Right by the Board (if so required by
  applicable state law), and subject to the terms of the Plan, the Committee
  shall have the authority to (i) determine to whom (from among the class of
  employees eligible under paragraph 3 to receive ISOs) ISOs shall be
  granted, and to whom (from among the class of individuals and entities
  eligible under paragraph 3 to receive Non-Qualified Options and Awards and
  to make Purchases) Non-Qualified Options, Awards and authorizations to make
  Purchases may be granted; (ii) determine the time or times at which Options
  or Awards shall be granted or Purchases made; (iii) determine the purchase
  price of shares subject to each Option or Purchase, which prices shall not
  be less than the minimum price specified in paragraph 6; (iv) determine
  whether each Option granted shall be an ISO or a Non-Qualified Option; (v)
  determine (subject to paragraph 7) the time or times when each Option shall
  become exercisable and the duration of the exercise period; (vi) extend the
  period during which outstanding Options may be exercised; (vii) determine
  whether restrictions such as repurchase options are to be imposed on shares
  subject to Options, Awards and Purchases and the nature of such
  restrictions, if any, and (viii) interpret the Plan and prescribe and
  rescind rules and regulations relating to it. If the Committee determines
  to issue a Non-Qualified Option, it shall take whatever actions it deems
  necessary, under Section 422 of the Code and the regulations promulgated
  thereunder, to ensure that such Option is not treated as an ISO. The
  interpretation and construction by the Committee of any provisions of the
  Plan or of any Stock Right granted under it shall be final unless otherwise
  determined by the Board. The Committee may from time to time adopt such
  rules and regulations for carrying out the Plan as it may deem advisable.
  No member of the Board or the Committee shall be liable for any action or
  determination made in good faith with respect to the Plan or any Stock
  Right granted under it.

     B. Committee Actions. The Committee may select one of its members as its
  chairman, and shall hold meetings at such time and places as it may
  determine. A majority of the Committee shall constitute a quorum and acts
  of a majority of the members of the Committee at a meeting at which a
  quorum is present, or acts reduced to or approved in writing by all the
  members of the Committee (if consistent with applicable state law), shall
  be the valid acts of the Committee. From time to time the Board may
  increase

                                      G-1
<PAGE>

  the size of the Committee and appoint additional members thereof, remove
  members (with or without cause) and appoint new members in substitution
  therefor, fill vacancies however caused, or remove all members of the
  Committee and thereafter directly administer the Plan.

     C. Grant of Stock Rights to Board Members. Subject to the provisions of
  the first sentence of paragraph 2(A) above, if applicable, Stock Rights may
  be granted to members of the Board. All grants of Stock Rights to members
  of the Board shall in all other respects be made in accordance with the
  provisions of this Plan applicable to other eligible persons. Consistent
  with the provisions of the first sentence of Paragraph 2(A) above, members
  of the Board who either (i) are eligible to receive grants of Stock Rights
  pursuant to the Plan or (ii) have been granted Stock Rights may vote on any
  matters affecting the administration of the Plan or the grant of any Stock
  Rights pursuant to the Plan, except that no such member shall act upon the
  granting to himself or herself of Stock Rights, but any such member may be
  counted in determining the existence of a quorum at any meeting of the
  Board during which action is taken with respect to the granting to such
  member of Stock Rights.

   3. Eligible Employees and Others. ISOs may be granted only to employees of
the Company or any Related Corporation. Non-Qualified Options, Awards and
authorizations to make Purchases may be granted to any employee, officer or
director (whether or not also an employee) or consultant of the Company or any
Related Corporation. The Committee may take into consideration a recipient's
individual circumstances in determining whether to grant a Stock Right. The
granting of any Stock Right to any individual or entity shall neither entitle
that individual or entity to, nor disqualify such individual or entity from,
participation in any other grant of Stock Rights.

   4. Stock. The stock subject to Stock Rights shall be authorized but unissued
shares of Common Stock of the Company, par value $.01 per share (the "Common
Stock"), or shares of Common Stock reacquired by the Company in any manner. The
aggregate number of shares which may be issued pursuant to the Plan is
2,250,000, subject to adjustment as provided in paragraph 13. If any Stock
Right granted under the Plan shall expire or terminate for any reason without
having been exercised in full or shall cease for any reason to be exercisable
in whole or in part or shall be repurchased by the Company, the shares of
Common Stock subject to such Stock Right shall again be available for grants of
Stock Rights under the Plan.

   No employee of the Company or any Related Corporation may be granted Options
to acquire, in the aggregate, more than 2,249,000 shares of Common Stock under
the Plan. If any Option granted under the Plan shall expire or terminate for
any reason without having been exercised in full or shall cease for any reason
to be exercisable in whole or in part or shall be repurchased by the Company,
the shares subject to such Option shall be included in the determination of the
aggregate number of shares of Common Stock deemed to have been granted to such
employee under the Plan.

   5. Granting of Stock Rights. Stock Rights may be granted under the Plan at
any time on or after February 8, 1995 and prior to February 8, 2005. The date
of grant of a Stock Right under the Plan will be the date specified by the
Committee at the time it grants the Stock Right; provided, however, that such
date shall not be prior to the date on which the Committee acts to approve the
grant.

   6. Minimum Option Price; ISO Limitations.

     A. Price for Non-Qualified Options, Awards and Purchases. The exercise
  price per share specified in the agreement relating to each Non-Qualified
  Option granted, and the purchase price per share of stock granted in any
  Award or authorized as a Purchase, under the Plan shall in no event be less
  than the minimum legal consideration required therefor under the laws of
  any jurisdiction in which the Company or its successors in interest may be
  organized. Stock Rights granted under the Plan may be exercisable only upon
  the attainment of a pre-established, objective performance goal established
  by the Committee. If the

                                      G-2
<PAGE>

  Committee grants Stock Rights under the Plan, such grants may be submitted
  for, and may be contingent upon, shareholder approval if the Committee so
  determines in accordance with the regulations established under Section
  162(m) of the Code.

     B. Price for ISOs. The exercise price per share specified in the
  agreement relating to each ISO granted under the Plan shall not be less
  than the fair market value per share of Common Stock on the date of such
  grant. In the case of an ISO to be granted to an employee owning stock
  possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power
  of all classes of stock of the Company or any Related Corporation, the
  price per share specified in the agreement relating to such ISO shall not
  be less than one hundred ten percent (110%) of the fair market value per
  share of Common Stock on the date of grant. For purposes of determining
  stock ownership under this paragraph, the rules of Section 424(d) of the
  Code shall apply.

     C. $100,000 Annual Limitation on ISO Vesting. Each eligible employee may
  be granted Options treated as ISOs only to the extent that, in the
  aggregate under this Plan and all incentive stock option plans of the
  Company and any Related Corporation, ISOs do not become exercisable for the
  first time by such employee during any calendar year with respect to stock
  having a fair market value (determined at the time the ISOs were granted)
  in excess of $100,000. The Company intends to designate any Options granted
  in excess of such limitation as Non-Qualified Options.

     D. Determination of Fair Market Value. If, at the time an Option is
  granted under the Plan, the Company's Common Stock is publicly traded,
  "fair market value" shall be determined as of the last business day for
  which the prices or quotes discussed in this sentence are available prior
  to the date such Option is granted and shall mean (i) the average (on that
  date) of the high and low prices of the Common Stock on the principal
  national securities exchange on which the Common Stock is traded, if the
  Common Stock is then traded on a national securities exchange; or (ii) the
  last reported sale price (on that date) of the Common Stock on the Nasdaq
  National Market, if the Common Stock is not then traded on a national
  securities exchange; or (iii) the closing bid price (or average of bid
  prices) last quoted (on that date) by an established quotation service for
  over-the-counter securities, if the Common Stock is not reported on the
  Nasdaq National Market. If the Common Stock is not publicly traded at the
  time an Option is granted under the Plan, "fair market value" shall mean
  the fair value of the Common Stock as determined by the Committee after
  taking into consideration all factors which it deems appropriate,
  including, without limitation, recent sale and offer prices of the Common
  Stock in private transactions negotiated at arm's length.

   7. Option Duration. Subject to earlier termination as provided in paragraphs
9 and 10 or in the agreement relating to such Option, each Option shall expire
on the date specified by the Committee, but not more than (i) ten years from
the date of grant in the case of Options generally and (ii) five years from the
date of grant in the case of ISOs granted to an employee owning stock
possessing more than ten percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of
all classes of stock of the Company or any Related Corporation, as determined
under paragraph 6(B). Subject to earlier termination as provided in paragraphs
9 and 10, the term of each ISO shall be the term set forth in the original
instrument granting such ISO, except with respect to any part of such ISO that
is converted into a Non-Qualified Option pursuant to paragraph 16.

   8. Exercise of Option. Subject to the provisions of paragraphs 9 through 12,
each Option granted under the Plan shall be exercisable as follows:

     A. Vesting. The Option shall either be fully exercisable on the date of
  grant or shall become exercisable thereafter in such installments as the
  Committee may specify.

     B. Full Vesting of Installments. Once an installment becomes exercisable
  it shall remain exercisable until expiration or termination of the Option,
  unless otherwise specified by the Committee.

     C. Partial Exercise. Each Option or installment may be exercised at any
  time or from time to time, in whole or in part, for up to the total number
  of shares with respect to which it is then exercisable.

                                      G-3
<PAGE>

     D. Acceleration of Vesting. The Committee shall have the right to
  accelerate the date that any installment of any Option becomes exercisable;
  provided that the Committee shall not, without the consent of an optionee,
  accelerate the permitted exercise date of any installment of any Option
  granted to any employee as an ISO (and not previously converted into a Non-
  Qualified Option pursuant to paragraph 16) if such acceleration would
  violate the annual vesting limitation contained in Section 422(d) of the
  Code, as described in paragraph 6(C).

   9. Termination of Employment. Unless otherwise specified in the agreement
relating to such ISO, if an ISO optionee ceases to be employed by the Company
and all Related Corporations other than by reason of death or disability as
defined in paragraph 10, no further installments of his or her ISOs shall
become exercisable, and his or her ISOs shall terminate on the earlier of (a)
ninety (90) days after the date of termination of his or her employment, or (b)
their specified expiration dates, except to the extent that such ISOs (or
unexercised installments thereof) have been converted into Non-Qualified
Options pursuant to paragraph 16. For purposes of this paragraph 9, employment
shall be considered as continuing uninterrupted during any bona fide leave of
absence (such as those attributable to illness, military obligations or
governmental service) provided that the period of such leave does not exceed 90
days or, if longer, any period during which such optionee's right to
reemployment is guaranteed by statute. A bona fide leave of absence with the
written approval of the Committee shall not be considered an interruption of
employment under this paragraph 9, provided that such written approval
contractually obligates the Company or any Related Corporation to continue the
employment of the optionee after the approved period of absence. ISOs granted
under the Plan shall not be affected by any change of employment within or
among the Company and Related Corporations, so long as the optionee continues
to be an employee of the Company or any Related Corporation. Nothing in the
Plan shall be deemed to give any grantee of any Stock Right the right to be
retained in employment or other service by the Company or any Related
Corporation for any period of time.

   10. Death; Disability.

     A. Death. If an ISO optionee ceases to be employed by the Company and
  all Related Corporations by reason of his or her death, any ISO owned by
  such optionee may be exercised, to the extent otherwise exercisable on the
  date of death, by the estate, personal representative or beneficiary who
  has acquired the ISO by will or by the laws of descent and distribution,
  until the earlier of (i) the specified expiration date of the ISO or (ii)
  180 days from the date of the optionee's death.

     B. Disability. If an ISO optionee ceases to be employed by the Company
  and all Related Corporations by reason of his or her disability, such
  optionee shall have the right to exercise any ISO held by him or her on the
  date of termination of employment, for the number of shares for which he or
  she could have exercised it on that date, until the earlier of (i) the
  specified expiration date of the ISO or (ii) 180 days from the date of the
  termination of the optionee's employment. For the purposes of the Plan, the
  term "disability" shall mean "permanent and total disability" as defined in
  Section 22(e)(3) of the Code or any successor statute.

   11. Assignability. No Stock Right shall be assignable or transferable by the
grantee except by will, by the laws of descent and distribution or, in the case
of Non-Qualified Options only, pursuant to a valid domestic relations order.
Except as set forth in the previous sentence, during the lifetime of a grantee
each Stock Right shall be exercisable only by such grantee.

   12. Terms and Conditions of Options. Options shall be evidenced by
instruments (which need not be identical) in such forms as the Committee may
from time to time approve. Such instruments shall conform to the terms and
conditions set forth in paragraphs 6 through 11 hereof and may contain such
other provisions as the Committee deems advisable which are not inconsistent
with the Plan, including restrictions applicable to shares of Common Stock
issuable upon exercise of Options. The Committee may specify that any Non-
Qualified Option shall be subject to the restrictions set forth herein with
respect to ISOs, or to such other termination and cancellation provisions as
the Committee may determine. The Committee may from time to

                                      G-4
<PAGE>

time confer authority and responsibility on one or more of its own members
and/or one or more officers of the Company to execute and deliver such
instruments. The proper officers of the Company are authorized and directed to
take any and all action necessary or advisable from time to time to carry out
the terms of such instruments.

   13. Adjustments. Upon the occurrence of any of the following events, an
optionee's rights with respect to Options granted to such optionee hereunder
shall be adjusted as hereinafter provided, unless otherwise specifically
provided in the written agreement between the optionee and the Company relating
to such Option:

     A. Stock Dividends and Stock Splits. If the shares of Common Stock shall
  be subdivided or combined into a greater or smaller number of shares or if
  the Company shall issue any shares of Common Stock as a stock dividend on
  its outstanding Common Stock, the number of shares of Common Stock
  deliverable upon the exercise of Options shall be appropriately increased
  or decreased proportionately, and appropriate adjustments shall be made in
  the purchase price per share to reflect such subdivision, combination or
  stock dividend. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no adjustment shall be made
  for the 280-for-1 stock split in the form of a 279-for-1 stock dividend
  adopted by the Board on February 8, 1995.

     B. Consolidations or Mergers. If the Company is to be consolidated with
  or acquired by another entity in a merger, sale of all or substantially all
  of the Company's assets or otherwise (an "Acquisition"), the Committee or
  the board of directors of any entity assuming the obligations of the
  Company hereunder (the "Successor Board"), shall, as to outstanding
  Options, either (i) make appropriate provision for the continuation of such
  Options by substituting on an equitable basis for the shares then subject
  to such Options either (a) the consideration payable with respect to the
  outstanding shares of Common Stock in connection with the Acquisition, (b)
  shares of stock of the surviving corporation or (c) such other securities
  as the Successor Board deems appropriate, the fair market value of which
  shall not materially exceed the fair market value of the shares of Common
  Stock subject to such Options immediately preceding the Acquisition; or
  (ii) upon written notice to the optionees, provide that all Options must be
  exercised, to the extent then exercisable, within a specified number of
  days of the date of such notice, at the end of which period the Options
  shall terminate; or (iii) terminate all Options in exchange for a cash
  payment equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares subject
  to such Options (to the extent then exercisable) over the exercise price
  thereof.

     C. Recapitalization or Reorganization. In the event of a
  recapitalization or reorganization of the Company (other than a transaction
  described in subparagraph B above) pursuant to which securities of the
  Company or of another corporation are issued with respect to the
  outstanding shares of Common Stock, an optionee upon exercising an Option
  shall be entitled to receive for the purchase price paid upon such exercise
  the securities he or she would have received if he or she had exercised
  such Option prior to such recapitalization or reorganization.

     D. Modification of ISOs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any adjustments
  made pursuant to subparagraphs A, B or C with respect to ISOs shall be made
  only after the Committee, after consulting with counsel for the Company,
  determines whether such adjustments would constitute a "modification" of
  such ISOs (as that term is defined in Section 424 of the Code) or would
  cause any adverse tax consequences for the holders of such ISOs. If the
  Committee determines that such adjustments made with respect to ISOs would
  constitute a modification of such ISOs or would cause adverse tax
  consequences to the holders, it may refrain from making such adjustments.

     E. Dissolution or Liquidation. In the event of the proposed dissolution
  or liquidation of the Company, each Option will terminate immediately prior
  to the consummation of such proposed action or at such other time and
  subject to such other conditions as shall be determined by the Committee.

     F. Issuances of Securities. Except as expressly provided herein, no
  issuance by the Company of shares of stock of any class, or securities
  convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no
  adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or
  price of shares subject to Options. No adjustments shall be made for
  dividends paid in cash or in property other than securities of the Company.

                                      G-5
<PAGE>

     G. Fractional Shares. No fractional shares shall be issued under the
  Plan and the optionee shall receive from the Company cash in lieu of such
  fractional shares.

     H. Adjustments. Upon the happening of any of the events described in
  subparagraphs A, B or C above, the class and aggregate number of shares set
  forth in paragraph 4 hereof that are subject to Stock Rights which
  previously have been or subsequently may be granted under the Plan shall
  also be appropriately adjusted to reflect the events described in such
  subparagraphs. The Committee or the Successor Board shall determine the
  specific adjustments to be made under this paragraph 13 and, subject to
  paragraph 2, its determination shall be conclusive.

   14. Means of Exercising Options. An Option (or any part or installment
thereof) shall be exercised by giving written notice to the Company at its
principal office address, or to such transfer agent as the Company shall
designate. Such notice shall identify the Option being exercised and specify
the number of shares as to which such Option is being exercised, accompanied by
full payment of the purchase price therefor either (a) in United States dollars
in cash or by check, (b) at the discretion of the Committee, through delivery
of shares of Common Stock having a fair market value equal as of the date of
the exercise to the cash exercise price of the Option, (c) at the discretion of
the Committee, by delivery of the grantee's personal recourse note bearing
interest payable not less than annually at no less than 100% of the lowest
applicable Federal rate, as defined in Section 1274(d) of the Code, (d) at the
discretion of the Committee and consistent with applicable law, through the
delivery of an assignment to the Company of a sufficient amount of the proceeds
from the sale of the Common Stock acquired upon exercise of the Option and an
authorization to the broker or selling agent to pay that amount to the Company,
which sale shall be at the participant's direction at the time of exercise, or
(e) at the discretion of the Committee, by any combination of (a), (b), (c) and
(d) above. If the Committee exercises its discretion to permit payment of the
exercise price of an ISO by means of the methods set forth in clauses (b), (c),
(d) or (e) of the preceding sentence, such discretion shall be exercised in
writing at the time of the grant of the ISO in question. The holder of an
Option shall not have the rights of a shareholder with respect to the shares
covered by such Option until the date of issuance of a stock certificate to
such holder for such shares. Except as expressly provided above in paragraph 13
with respect to changes in capitalization and stock dividends, no adjustment
shall be made for dividends or similar rights for which the record date is
before the date such stock certificate is issued.

   15. Term and Amendment of Plan. The 1995 Stock Plan was adopted by the Board
and the stockholders of the Company on February 8, 1995. This Plan was adopted
by the Board of the Company on May 9, 1999. The Plan shall expire at the end of
the day on February 7, 2005 (except as to Options outstanding on that date).
Subject to the provisions of paragraph 5 above, Options may be granted under
the Plan prior to the date of stockholder approval of the Plan. The Board may
terminate or amend the Plan in any respect at any time, except that, without
the approval of the stockholders obtained within 12 months before or after the
Board adopts a resolution authorizing any of the following actions: (a) the
total number of shares that may be issued under the Plan may not be increased
(except by adjustment pursuant to paragraph 13); (b) the benefits accruing to
participants under the Plan may not be materially increased; (c) the
requirements as to eligibility for participation in the Plan may not be
materially modified; (d) the provisions of paragraph 3 regarding eligibility
for grants of ISOs may not be modified; (e) the provisions of paragraph 6(B)
regarding the exercise price at which shares may be offered pursuant to ISOs
may not be modified (except by adjustment pursuant to paragraph 13); (f) the
expiration date of the Plan may not be extended; and (g) the Board may not take
any action which would cause the Plan to fail to comply with Rule 16b-3. Except
as otherwise provided in this paragraph 15, in no event may action of the Board
or stockholders alter or impair the rights of a grantee, without such grantee's
consent, under any Option previously granted to such grantee.

   16. Conversion of ISOs into Non-Qualified Options. The Committee, at the
written request or with the written consent of any optionee, may in its
discretion take such actions as may be necessary to convert such optionee's
ISOs (or any installments or portions of installments thereof) that have not
been exercised on the date of conversion into Non-Qualified Options at any time
prior to the expiration of such ISOs, regardless of whether the optionee is an
employee of the Company or a Related Corporation at the time of such
conversion. Such actions may include, but shall not be limited to, extending
the exercise period or reducing the exercise price of the appropriate
installments of such ISO's. At the time of such conversion, the Committee (with
the consent of

                                      G-6
<PAGE>

the optionee) may impose such conditions on the exercise of the resulting Non-
Qualified Options as the Committee in its discretion may determine, provided
that such conditions shall not be inconsistent with this Plan. Nothing in the
Plan shall be deemed to give any optionee the right to have such optionee's
ISOs converted into Non-Qualified Options, and no such conversion shall occur
until and unless the Committee takes appropriate action.

   17. Application Of Funds. The proceeds received by the Company from the sale
of shares pursuant to Options granted and Purchases authorized under the Plan
shall be used for general corporate purposes.

   18. Notice to Company of Disqualifying Disposition. By accepting an ISO
granted under the Plan, each optionee agrees to notify the Company in writing
immediately after such optionee makes a Disqualifying Disposition (as described
in Sections 421, 422 and 424 of the Code and regulations thereunder) of any
stock acquired pursuant to the exercise of ISOs granted under the Plan. A
Disqualifying Disposition is generally any disposition occurring on or before
the later of (a) the date two years following the date the ISO was granted or
(b) the date one year following the date the ISO was exercised.

   19. Withholding of Additional Income Taxes. Upon the exercise of a Non-
Qualified Option, the grant of an Award, the making of a Purchase of Common
Stock for less than its fair market value, the making of a Disqualifying
Disposition (as defined in paragraph 18), the vesting or transfer of restricted
stock or securities acquired on the exercise of an Option hereunder, or the
making of a distribution or other payment with respect to such stock or
securities, the Company may withhold taxes in respect of amounts that
constitute compensation includible in gross income. The Committee in its
discretion may condition (i) the exercise of an Option, (ii) the grant of an
Award, (iii) the making of a Purchase of Common Stock for less than its fair
market value, or (iv) the vesting or transferability of restricted stock or
securities acquired by exercising an Option, on the grantee's making
satisfactory arrangement for such withholding. Such arrangement may include
payment by the grantee in cash or by check of the amount of the withholding
taxes or, at the discretion of the Committee, by the grantee's delivery of
previously held shares of Common Stock or the withholding from the shares of
Common Stock otherwise deliverable upon exercise of a Option shares having an
aggregate fair market value equal to the amount of such withholding taxes.

   20. Governmental Regulation. The Company's obligation to sell and deliver
shares of the Common Stock under this Plan is subject to the approval of any
governmental authority required in connection with the authorization, issuance
or sale of such shares.

   Government regulations may impose reporting or other obligations on the
Company with respect to the Plan. For example, the Company may be required to
send tax information statements to employees and former employees that exercise
ISOs under the Plan, and the Company may be required to file tax information
returns reporting the income received by grantees of Options in connection with
the Plan.

   21. Governing Law. The validity and construction of the Plan and the
instruments evidencing Options shall be governed by the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or the laws of any jurisdiction in which the
Company or its successors in interest may be organized.

                                      G-7
<PAGE>



                              CMC INDUSTRIES, INC.

         Proxy for 1999 Special Meeting of Stockholders - July 29, 1999
                      Solicited by the Board of Directors

   The undersigned stockholder of CMC Industries, Inc., a Delaware corporation
(the "Corporation"), hereby acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Special
Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement, each dated June 23, 1999 and
hereby appoints Andrew J. Moley and Lanny N. Lambert, and each of them, proxies
and attorneys-in-fact, with full power to each of substitution, on behalf and
in the name of the undersigned, to represent the undersigned at the Special
Meeting of Stockholders of the Corporation to be held at CMC Industries, Inc.,
4950 Patrick Henry Drive, Santa Clara, California 95054 on July 29, 1999 at
8:00 a.m., local time, and at any adjournment or adjournments thereof, and to
vote all shares of Common Stock which the undersigned would be entitled to vote
if then and there personally present, on the matters set forth on the reverse
side.
<PAGE>



1. To approve and adopt an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization
   dated as of May 10, 1999, among ACT Manufacturing, Inc., a Massachusetts
   corporation, East Acquisition Corp., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned
   subsidiary of ACT, and the Corporation. The merger agreement provides for,
   among other things, the exchange of each issued and outstanding share of
   common stock of the Corporation for 0.50 of a share of ACT common stock, the
   assumption of all outstanding options to purchase common stock of the
   Corporation and the merger of East Acquisition Corp. with and into the
   Corporation, with the Corporation being the surviving corporation and a
   wholly-owned subsidiary of ACT after the merger.

   [_]FOR                   [_]AGAINST             [_]ABSTAIN

2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting or
   any postponements or adjournments thereof, including without limitation,
   potential postponements or adjournments for the purpose of soliciting
   additional proxies in order to approve the above proposal.

   THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED OR, IF NO CONTRARY DIRECTION IS
INDICATED, WILL BE VOTED FOR THE APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE AGREEMENT AND
PLAN OF MERGER AND REORGANIZATION AND AS SAID PROXIES DEEM ADVISABLE ON SUCH
OTHER MATTERS AS MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING AND ANY ADJOURNMENTS
THERETO.


                                           Dated:                  , 1999

                                           ------------------------------------
                                           Signature

                                           ------------------------------------
                                           Signature

   (This Proxy should be marked, dated and signed by the stockholder(s) exactly
as his or her name appears hereon, and returned promptly in the enclosed
envelope. Persons signing in a fiduciary capacity should so indicate. If shares
are held by joint tenants or as community property, both should sign.)



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