American Tire Distributors to Expand across the Sunbelt

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--July 2, 2004--American Tire Distributors, Inc. ("American Tire Distributors") announced today that they have executed an agreement to acquire Texas Market Tire, Inc., dba Big State Tire Supply ("Big State"). This will expand American Tire Distributors' service across Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.

"Big State is the premier tire distributor in their geographic area. They have built a solid business based on strong management, efficient operations, and, most importantly, an unwavering commitment to customer service," said Richard P. "Dick" Johnson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Tire Distributors. "This union will better position both companies for long-term success."

Big State operates nine distribution centers in the following locations: Lubbock, TX; McAllen, TX; Amarillo, TX; San Angelo, TX; Carrolton, TX; Tyler TX; San Marcos, TX; Albuquerque, NM; and Oklahoma City, OK. These nine centers service more than 2,500 accounts, which will bring American Tire Distributors' coverage to more than 42,000 points of sale.

Mel Shook and Jerry Hale, founders of Big State, will continue to manage American Tire Distributors' Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico markets. Shook indicated his high expectations for the future of the company, saying, "I am very proud of the many accomplishments of the Big State Tire team over the past 24 years," he said. "The tire industry is rapidly evolving and the pace of change will accelerate over the next five years. I am convinced that becoming a part of the American Tire Distributors' team will enable us to continue to grow our business. We are very excited about this opportunity."

Johnson of American Tire Distributors added, "During the past two years, we have focused on solidifying our operational and financial strength. The acquisition of Big State Tire Supply represents the beginning of a new growth phase for American Tire Distributors. We plan to expand into new markets that align with our strategic growth plan."

About American Tire Distributors

American Tire Distributors is one of the nation's largest independent suppliers of tires to the replacement tire market. It operates 60 distribution centers servicing 35 states. The company is focused on helping tire and wheel retail dealers compete with larger retailers by offering the most complete, coast-to-coast selection of tires, wheels and related products and value-added services. American Tire Distributors employs 1,900 employees across its nationwide distribution center network, including 200 people in its Charlotte-area headquarters, distribution center and regional hub.