DaimlerChrysler's Diversity Supplier Development Department Receives Award from the American Advertising Federation

NEW YORK, Sept. 22 -- DaimlerChrysler's Diversity Supplier Development Department was recognized today with the American Advertising Federation's (AAF) prestigious Mosaic Award for increasing its partnerships with minority suppliers. The Mosaic Awards celebrate individuals and companies that have implemented programs which reinforce the AAF's goals of increasing the representation of people of color throughout the ranks of business, helping companies achieve growth by leveraging multicultural and targeted ethnic marketing communications, and promoting fair competition.

"DaimlerChrysler embraces diversity and is committed to being a company that is well respected -- both inside and outside of our corporate walls -- for our inclusive practices," said Monica Emerson, Executive Director - DaimlerChrysler Corporate Diversity Office. "The Diversity Supplier Development Department has made tremendous strides within the diversity supplier community, and we are honored that the American Advertising Federation has chosen to recognize these efforts."

DaimlerChrysler's Diversity Supplier Development (DSD) Department was established in 1983 to develop and maintain a qualified minority supply base that reflects the Company's customer base. Since then, DaimlerChrysler has initiated several diversity supplier programs to enhance minority supplier development. These include a mentoring program where DaimlerChrysler Procurement & Supply executives work directly with minority suppliers to assist in their growth and development. The goal of each relationship is to help suppliers cut costs, improve quality and increase new business opportunities.

The Company also has a world-class "Matchmaker" program that pairs minority suppliers with Tier 1, 2 and 3 suppliers to increase business opportunities. This program is entering its fifth year. Since its inception, it has generated $500 million in additional business opportunities to minority suppliers.

In 2003, DaimlerChrysler achieved $3 billion in minority supplier spending, 11 percent of the Company's total supplier budget -- proportionately among the highest in the industry. Additionally, more than $24 billion has been spent with minority firms since the DSD was established 21 years ago.

"In today's changing society, DaimlerChrysler realizes that Diversity is not just a social responsibility, but a business imperative. It is our belief that our suppliers should reflect our customer base," said Jethro Joseph, DaimlerChrysler Director - Minority Supplier Development. "DaimlerChrysler has made a long-term commitment to better position our minority suppliers to compete for our business and other global opportunities."

In 2003, DaimlerChrysler received the National Minority Supplier Development Council's (NMSDC) "Leadership Award." This award recognizes DaimlerChrysler's long-term leadership in providing opportunities for minority suppliers. The Company also was awarded the Michigan Minority Business Council's "Corporation of the Year" for an unprecedented fourth consecutive year.