>George C. Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Universal Corporation (NYSE: UVV), said today, 'Despite lower fourth quarter results due to shipment timing, we are pleased with our performance for fiscal year 2008 as we reported last week. We are confident in the long-term future of the Company. We know of no reason for last week's unusual activity in the Company's stock.'

Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, Universal Corporation is one of the world's leading tobacco merchants and processors and conducts business in more than 35 countries. Its revenues from continuing operations for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008, were $2.1 billion. For more information on Universal Corporation, visit its web site at www.universalcorp.com .

SOURCE Universal Corporation