Start Your Engines: Here Comes B3's Dodge's HEMI Power Tool Line

TORONTO--May 6, 2005--At this May's 60th National Hardware Show, B3 Brands Inc., in an industry exclusive, will orchestrate one of the metaphorically noisy product introductions by unveiling a premium line of Dodge HEMI(R) - branded power tools, developed with the Chrysler Group.

Designed for demanding contractors and advanced do-it-yourselfers B3's Dodge HEMI power tool line will initially comprise reciprocating, circular saws and jigsaws, a hammer drill, a flashlight and a one- and two-battery charger. The line is designed to meet or exceed most competitive industry benchmarks: The 18V circular saw boasts a top speed of 3000 rpm, with a large 6.5-inch blade size and a 2 1/8 inch depth of cut. The 18v jigsaw reaches an SPM of 2200 with a one-inch stroke. The 18V reciprocating saw reaches 2800 SPM with a 30mm stroke. The 1/2" chuck 18V Hammer Drill's speed extends from 450-1500 rpm, with a maximum torque of 515 in/lbs and a BPM of 25500. The tools will hit retail in the third quarter of 2005. B3 Brands will be in Booth 34070 at the Hardware Show.

"The Dodge HEMI is one of the hottest brands in America today," David Bitton, Vice President of B3 Brands, commented. "It's the perfect brand to communicate the quality and value we build into every one of our products. We're extremely proud to be chosen to represent the Dodge HEMI brand and look forward to introducing the HEMI brand to millions of new, and soon to be loyal, HEMI fans."

Now that a new generation of consumers are hot for anything HEMI, thanks to the famous "That thing got a HEMI?" ad campaign, B3 also will be rolling out new promotional materials, collateral, advertising and in-store signage to back the Dodge HEMI line.