For More Information Contact:      
- -----------------------------

Steve Hagge                                                FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AptarGroup, Inc.                                           ---------------------
815/477-0424


        APTARGROUP, INC. ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF EMSON RESEARCH, INC.

Crystal Lake, Illinois, February 17, 1999 -- AptarGroup, Inc. (NYSE: ATR)
announced today it has acquired privately held Emson Research Inc. and related
companies for approximately $146 million in cash and assumed debt and $4 million
in AptarGroup stock. Connecticut-based Emson is a leading supplier of perfume
pumps in the North American market. It also has a significant position in the
North American personal care and food pump markets and a growing presence in
selected international markets. Emson's sales for the year ended December 31,
1998 were approximately $85 million.

"Emson represents a major strategic acquisition for us," said Carl A. Siebel,
President and CEO of AptarGroup. "Its strong position in the North American pump
market - especially the fragrance/cosmetics market sector - complements our
existing pump market strength in Europe and puts us in a better position to
service perfume, personal care and food customers on a worldwide basis. Emson
has a widely respected management team and excellent manufacturing technology.

"We are pleased to have Emil Meshberg, CEO of Emson, join the AptarGroup
management team, as Emil brings an exceptional understanding of the market and
strong relationships with major customers to our team," added Siebel.

AptarGroup, Inc. is a leading international designer, manufacturer and marketer
of pumps, dispensing closures and aerosol valves for fragrance/cosmetic,
personal care, pharmaceutical, household and food products. AptarGroup is
headquartered in Crystal Lake, Illinois, with manufacturing facilities in the
United States, Europe, Asia and South America.

                                    #  #  #