EAST HARTFORD, Conn., May 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Farmstead Telephone Group, Inc. today announced the appointment of Mr. Jean-Marc Stiegemeier as Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective May 12, 2005. Mr. Stiegemeier, CEO and President since October 2004, succeeds Mr. George J. Taylor, Jr., Founder and Chairman since 1987. Mr. Taylor will continue to serve the Company in an advisory capacity.

Mr. Taylor commented, "I feel privileged to have served Farmstead for the past 18 years as Chairman and am pleased to have Jean-Marc succeed me. His vision of the future of the telecom industry, as well as his proven record, will have a significant impact on Farmstead during these changing times."

Jean-Marc Stiegemeier commented, "George's contributions as the founder and leader of Farmstead are greatly appreciated by the entire organization. It is with pleasure that I accept this position to continue to lead Farmstead. The entire Farmstead organization is committed to our redirection and continuing to serve our thousands of customers nationally."

About Farmstead

Farmstead Telephone Group, Inc. is an Avaya Inc. Gold Business Partner, selling, installing and maintaining both new and refurbished Avaya business communications products nationwide. Further information about Farmstead Telephone may be found at http://www.farmstead.com/.

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This release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. In addition to historical information, investors should consider carefully the risks associated with an investment in the Company's securities as previously outlined by the Company in its prior filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CONTACT: Robert G. LaVigne, CFO Farmstead Telephone Group, Inc. Voice: 860-610-6002 Fax: 860-610-6001

CONTACT: Robert G. LaVigne, CFO of Farmstead Telephone Group, Inc., +1-
860-610-6002

Web site: http://www.farmstead.com/