Exhibit 99(b)

                 Maytag Names Roger K. Scholten General Counsel

     NEWTON, Iowa--(Jan. 31, 2001)-- Maytag Corporation announced today that
Roger K. Scholten has been named senior vice president and general counsel,
effective immediately. Scholten replaces Frederick G. Wohlschlaeger, who has
resigned. Scholten most recently was vice president of corporate development at
Maytag.

     "Roger brings a unique combination of legal and business experience to the
general counsel's role," said Leonard A. Hadley, Maytag's president and CEO. "We
are pleased to be able to tap this expertise, as well as the breadth of his
knowledge about our businesses."

     Scholten joined Maytag's legal staff in 1981 and was promoted to associate
general counsel in 1987. He was named assistant general counsel in 1994, with
practice areas covering trade practices, environmental law, and mergers and
acquisitions. In 1998, Scholten joined Maytag's strategic planning department
with responsibility for mergers, acquisitions, and licensing. He was named vice
president of strategic planning and corporate development last year.

     As general counsel, Scholten will continue to oversee strategic and
corporate development.

     Hadley concluded: "Fred Wohlschlaeger brought energy and drive to the
position, and we appreciate his contribution to the corporation. We wish him
well."

     Maytag Corporation is a leading producer of home and commercial appliances.
Its products are sold to customers throughout North America and in international
markets. The corporation's principal brands include Maytag, Hoover, Jenn-Air,
Maytag Performa, Blodgett and Dixie-Narco.

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Media Contact:
James G. Powell
Maytag Communications
641-787-8392
jpowel@maytag.com
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Additional Information:
www.maytagcorp.com