For Immediate Release

Public Relations Division
Public Affairs Department
1170 Eighth Avenue
Bethlehem, PA 18016-7699
(610) 694-3711 - Phone
(610) 694-1509 - Fax

BETHLEHEM, Pa., March 15, 1996 -- Bethlehem Steel Corporation said today that the base price for alloy plates will be increased $20 per ton effective with shipments June 2, 1996. In addition, the base price for carbon and high-strength low-alloy sheared plates will be increased by $20 per ton effective with shipments June 30, 1996.

Our pricing decision has considered the current demand for plate products. We have also balanced the ongoing needs of our customers and our long-term customer relationships with the continuing need to rebuild our financial strength and achieve adequate rates of return of profitability. This will result in the most equitable decision for all interested parties.

This action will increase plate prices by approximately 3 percent, is economically justified, and will be implemented. When adjusted for inflation, plate prices today are more than 20 percent below where they were in the late 1980s.