TSE Symbol:  SQP                                               For Immediate Release

          Strongco Announces Sale of Western Supplies Business

Mississauga, Ontario – May 17, 2002:  Strongco Inc. announced today that it has entered into a letter of intent for the sale of its Alberta supplies and B.C. Supplies divisions to a group consisting of certain senior managers of these businesses and the merchant banking arm of a major financial institution.  The transaction, which is subject to normal due diligence procedures and the execution of a definitive purchase and sale agreement, is expected to close prior to June 30, 2002.  The purchase price of approximately $29.5 million will result in Strongco recovering slightly more than its full investment in these divisions.

Mr. Larry Pirnak, Chairman of Strongco, commented, "We are very pleased with this transaction.  We believe that it will benefit both Strongco and the two Supplies divisions by enabling both to materially advance their strategic objectives."

Strongco is one of Canada’s largest full line equipment sales, rental and service companies.  Its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and its web site can be accessed at www.strongco.com.

For further information, contact: