Store of Knowledge Launches the ``Transportation Station''

9 October 2000

All Aboard!! Brand New Retail Concept Rolls Into Orland Park, Ill.

    ORLAND PARK, Ill. - Take your seats. Prepare for takeoff. Station stop: Orland Park. On Saturday, Oct. 14, Store of Knowledge will celebrate the launch of a brand new, first-of-its-kind retail concept with the grand opening of its new store in Orland Park.

    This store will feature the "Transportation Station," a store-within-a-store that will cater to plane, train and automobile lovers of all ages.

    Utilizing 2,500 square feet of retail space within a 10,000 square foot store, Store of Knowledge's "Transportation Station" will offer the most comprehensive assortment of high-quality transportation-related products in a single destination.

    Seven interactive displays will invite visitors to take up the controls of elaborate model train sets made by top-of-the-line companies like Lehmann Gross Bahn (LGB) and Lionel, or go for a lap on a challenging Carrera Slot Car Track from LGB. Also featured are extensive and unique collections of die-cast model cars; remote control trucks; WWII and Avirex(TM) aviator jackets; fighter helmets; die-cast vintage and contemporary airplanes; handcrafted model Harley Davidson(TM) and Indian(TM) motorcycles, books, video and graphics.

    "Store of Knowledge is bringing our innovative approach of assembling the most fun and mind-stimulating products for a wide variety of interests to the world of transportation," said James Berk, Store of Knowledge president, chairman and CEO. "The 'Transportation Station' is an exciting new retail concept that will capture the imagination of anyone fascinated by the history, technology or sheer fun of these machines."

    Fasten your seatbelts. Looking for that rare classic 1965 model Porsche? Virtually every classic model car from Ford to Ferrari can be found at the "Transportation Station." In addition, the "Transportation Station" is the grand central station platform for Thomas the Tank Engine, the world's most adorable steam engine. More than 100 products are available inspired by the lovable train and his friends, including track sets, engines, books, videos and other toys. The "Transportation Station" will also feature a full line of Brio wooden train sets.

    Store of Knowledge's new Orland Park location, partnering with Public Broadcasting Station WTTW, will also offer its traditional range of merchandise for fun and interactive learning among people of all ages. Selections range from toys and games to books, videos, CDs and computer software spanning more than 50 subjects including history, science, art, music and self-improvement.

    Affiliated with more than 26 public television stations across the country, Store of Knowledge carries products relating to popular shows that are not readily available at toy stores or mass retailers. Its mall-based stores are designed to create a high-energy, interactive shopping experience that reinforces Store of Knowledge's mission to educate, enlighten and entertain.