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Rankin Settles Legal Proceedings

22 December 1999

Rankin Settles Legal Proceedings

    HOUSTON, Dec. 21 -- Rankin Automotive Group, Inc.
("the Company"), today reported the Company settled a legal
proceeding, case No. 98CI-04310 originally filed on May 28, 1998 in the 150th
Judicial District Court, in Bexar County, Texas.
    The plaintiff filed a securities class action alleging violations of the
Texas Securities Act and the Securities Act of 1933 arising out of alleged
misrepresentations and omissions regarding the Company's operations and future
prospects.  The Company denied all wrongdoing alleged in the suit and is
pleased with the terms of the settlement, as it is not material to the
Company's operating results or financial position.
    Rankin sells automotive parts, products and accessories to commercial and
retail customers in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas
through its six distribution centers 67 stores and two machine shops.  The
Company also serves over three hundred independent jobber stores through its
distribution network.
    Certain statements contained in this press release are forward looking
statements.  These statements discuss, among other things, expected growth,
domestic development and expansion strategy, business strategies and future
performance.  These forward looking statements are subject to risks,
uncertainties and assumptions, including without limitation, competition,
product demand, domestic and international economies, government approvals,
inflation, the ability to hire and retain qualified employees, the ability to
convert acquired stores in a timely and profitable manner, consumer debt
levels and the weather.  Actual results may materially differ from anticipated
results.  Please refer to the Risk Factors section of the 10-K for the year
ended February 25, 1999 for more details.