IAPA and Parts Plus Merge to Form Automotive Distribution Network

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 14, 2005 -- Two of the top groups in the automotive aftermarket, Parts Plus and Independent Auto Parts of America (IAPA), have merged to form the Automotive Distribution Network (ADN). The effective date of this merger is January 1st, 2005.

The decision was approved unanimously by Parts Plus' 36-members and IAPA's 16-members, combining the strength and stability of the two groups. The Network consists of 51 members, 242 Warehouse Distributor locations and $2+ billion in annual sales.

Mark Bond of Quality Automotive Warehouse headquartered in Baltimore, MD and Stephen Sattinger of Merle's Automotive in Tucson, AZ are the co-chairmen of the Network. Mike Lambert of Parts Plus and Mike Kamal of IAPA are the co- presidents. Both groups retain their marketing programs and private label brands. The Network is headquartered in Memphis.

"This merger of these two great organizations is very exciting for us and will make the Network among the elite distributor organizations in North America," said Sattinger. "Our 51 proud member companies are anticipating great opportunities."

"The footprint of the Network provides more efficient and cost effective service for existing and future national account business," Bond added. "It's an exciting time for both groups. It's a merger that makes sense on many levels."

IAPA's 16 independently owned distribution companies operate 107 warehouse outlets serving 1,173 affiliated jobbers and 512 ASP tech centers in North America. In 2004 they had sales of over $1 billion. They are headquartered in Cartersville, GA.

Parts Plus' 36 independently owned distribution companies operate 135 warehouse outlets serving 926 affiliated jobbers and 708 Car Care Centers in North America. In 2004 they had sales of over $1 billion. They are headquartered in Memphis, TN.

For more information on the Network contact Mike Lambert, Network Co- President at 901-682-9090 or Mike Kamal, Network Co-President at 770-607-3616. E-mail them at mlambert@partsplus.com or mk@iapaparts.com .