FinishMaster Acquires Virginia Automotive Paint Distributor

INDIANAPOLIS--Aug. 1, 20046, 2004--FinishMaster, Inc. (Pink Sheets:FMST) announced today the acquisition of the automotive paint division of Virginia Paint Company, Incorporated ("VPC") in Richmond, Virginia. Prior to the acquisition, VPC serviced automotive paint customers in central Virginia through several locations. VPC will maintain its architectural paint and coatings business. FinishMaster operates branches in northern and western Virginia.

"This acquisition links our distribution centers in the middle Atlantic region and increases our market share," stated J. A. Lacy, President and Chief Operating Officer. "Equally as important, we've added a well trained team of experienced automotive paint professionals who share our passion for value-added service."

FinishMaster is the leading national independent distributor of automotive paints, coatings, and related accessories to the automotive collision repair industry. FinishMaster is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and operates three major distribution centers and 168 branches in 27 of the 35 largest metropolitan areas in the country. For more information on FinishMaster, visit FinishMaster's website at www.finishmaster.com.