Nichols Publishing Moves to Supply Industry with Web-Based Electronic Content; Broadens Access to Expansive Library of Technical and Repair Information

    WEST CHESTER, Pa., May 23 With the sale of its consumer
books in January 2001, and the resulting reorganization behind it, Nichols
Publishing, publisher of automotive information under the Chilton(TM) brand
name, has now turned its focus on the professional market.
    "For many years, our books have been known as a trusted source of
automotive repair and technical information.  We see the electronic equivalent
as the fastest growing segment of our business.  The Internet is the natural
communication channel to finally make this information available to everyone
at an affordable price," says Rick Van Dalen, CEO of Nichols.
    As an interim step, all Chilton Truck information is now available on CD.
The CD includes Chilton DIY information plus an additional 400 photos per
vehicle.  "Our Ozark test went very well and CDs will be available chain-wide
next month," said Van Dalen, "and we expect to add two other large chains to
our customer list shortly."  Nichols is scheduled to release its Car CDs this
fall.
    By web-enabling the Nichols' library of databases, the automotive
aftermarket will now be able to achieve easy, inexpensive access to up-to-date
information.  Further, integration between databases and other software
systems can help broaden mass appeal.
    While printed professional books will continue to be available, channels
for access to electronic versions are quickly becoming available through
ChiltonPRO(TM), Chilton's e-Toolbox(TM) and via integration by other licensed
developers.
    As a result of Nichols' shift towards electronic information,
"the e-Toolbox is an ideal platform to deliver our suite of electronic
information under the Chilton brand name.  We choose Point 5 to build the
e-Toolbox based upon their experience as installers.  It makes perfect sense
to have installers build a tool that was meant for them," said Van Dalen.
    The Chilton e-Toolbox combines an estimating tool with an electronic parts
catalog, labor times, technical service bulletins and saves customer
information and repair history.
    "We were excited about the opportunity to build the e-Toolbox for
Nichols," said Don Avellino, CEO and President of Point 5 Technologies.  "This
was the opportunity to build a tool that finally addressed some of the
problems we faced in the shop every day.  We wasted too much time estimating
jobs and sourcing parts.  The use of labor guides, parts catalogs, technical
service bulletins and maintenance schedules could help us build our profits
and improve our service."
    10,000 30-day free trial CDs were mailed to installers nationwide as of
April 30, with as many planned for May.  "Response has been very encouraging.
We've hit upon a need in the aftermarket that has not been satisfied," said
Avellino.