BFS's National Account Sales Team Takes Prospective Customers to the 'Net; New Customers Can Apply Online

    CHICAGO--Feb. 15, 2001--Responding to customer interest, the National Account Sales team at Bridgestone/Firestone (BFS) has developed a specialized Web site exclusively for its potential business-to-business customers.
    "The Internet has transformed the way we do business, and the way we interact with our customers," said WC Gates, BFS Manager of National Account Sales, whose group works with company fleets. "In today's marketplace, we need to provide services that meet our customers' needs and preferences, and that means information must be available on their time schedule."
    The recently launched Web site, found at www.CompanyCarConnection.com complements the existing Bridgestone/Firestone customer sites (www.FirestoneTire.com and www.MasterCareUSA.com). However, a unique feature of the new site is a convenient customer application that, when completed by the prospective fleet account customer, is immediately sent to the appropriate BFS account representative. Program features that are highlighted on the site include:

-	Competitive Prices-- money-saving tips on tires and automotive services
-	Centralized Billing-- simplified invoices, statements and billing
-	Nationwide Locations-- locator service listing of nearly 5,000 locations nationwide
-	Nationwide Warranties-- tire and service warranties nationwide

    Although Web site users will now be able to access store locations via the Internet, BFS has long offered a telephone location service and will continue to do so. By calling 800.706.TIRE, customers can find a nearby, participating, Bridgestone/Firestone location by using the telephone touch pad to enter a local zip code, area code or other pertinent information.

    About BFS National Account Sales

    Bridgestone/Firestone National Account Sales serves the passenger and light-truck tire and service needs of millions of fleet vehicles doing the daily business of companies across the nation. Through direct client relationships, or by working with all major fleet management companies, those who drive company cars and trucks can obtain a wide range of products and services needed to maintain their vehicles. This is accomplished through specialized programs that deliver centralized billing, competitive pricing and the services of the nearly 5,000 participating Bridgestone/Firestone retail locations across the United States.