Exhibit 99
                                   September 15, 1995
  
OWENS & MINOR PROJECTS LOWER THAN EXPECTED RESULTS 
   
Richmond, Va....Owens & Minor, Inc. (NYSE-OMI) announced
today that it expects third quarter results from recurring
operations to be significantly below last year's third quarter
and investment analysts' estimates. The company also expects
results for the full year of 1995 to be well below last year
and investment analysts' estimates. The results for the third
quarter of 1995 are expected to show a loss from recurring
operations. The results for the fourth quarter of 1995 are
expected to show improvement over the third quarter of 1995.

     The projected results reflect a decline in gross margin,
as the company's business mix continues to shift toward large
accounts that benefit from lower prices and enhanced levels of
service. General and administrative expense efficiencies have
been delayed as the company completes the division
consolidations of Stuart Medical into Owens & Minor and the
expansion of facilities due to new business. Also, interest
costs are up significantly compared to last year primarily due
to higher rates and excess inventory. 

     To address the gross margin issue, the company has a
number of initiatives underway, including the institution of
a 1 percent across-the-board price increase on all of its
product offerings to reflect the value of the services
provided to the customer. As the company completes the
consolidations this year and unusual work demands decrease,
the company's resources will be redirected toward achieving
operational efficiencies. Consequently, costs and inventory
levels are expected to show improvement in 1996. While the
company expects these initiatives to be successful, it cannot
predict their impact upon future earnings.
  
     According to G. Gilmer Minor, III, chairman, president
and chief executive officer: "I am very disappointed in these
short term results. However, we knew this quarter was going to
be the toughest of the transition quarters. We expect some
improvement in the fourth quarter of 1995, but our primary
focus is to produce a level of profitability in 1996
consistent with our record of past successful results.
Technology enhancements and better discipline in our
operations brought about by a return to pre-acquisition
fundamentals will help drive our performance in 1996."

     Owens & Minor, Inc., a Fortune 500 Company, is a
national wholesale distributor of medical/surgical supplies.
The company's distribution centers serve hospitals, primary
care facilities, integrated healthcare systems and group
purchasing organizations throughout the United States. In
addition to offering a diverse product selection, Owens &
Minor helps customers control healthcare costs and improve
inventory management through innovative services in asset
management, logistics and technology. 

  
                          CONTACT:

Glenn J. Dozier                Hugh F. Gouldthorpe 
Senior Vice President,         Finance  Vice President
Chief Financial Officer        Quality and Communications
Owens & Minor, Inc.            Owens & Minor, Inc.      
(804) 965-2945                 (804) 965-2922