Manufacturer Implements Changes With Dealer Network To Better Serve Customers CHICAGO, IL - Seeking new avenues to improve customer relations during an unprecedented time, A.B.Dick Company is changing its approach in key markets throughout the U.S. Reaching out to answer customer requests for help while improving service and keeping costs in line, A.B.Dick has changed to direct sales and service in several states. Combined with its extensive dealer network, customers can expect a strong, direct link to A.B.Dick that will benefit both parties. “Customers have come to known A.B.Dick as a progressive partner in the development of their businesses. They know we have a vested interest in their success, and we know how the many changes within the industry in the last 18 months have impacted them. These actions greatly influenced our decision to go direct in specific markets,” said Ken Newton, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer - Equipment. Changes in the distribution channels for sales, service and support have already taken place in Florida, specifically Orlando and Jacksonville, and in Texas, which involves the Dallas and Waco territories. Other markets in the process of change include Des Moines, Iowa; Indianapolis, Indiana; Youngstown, Ohio; central Pennsylvania, Maryland and Washington D.C. A.B.Dick officials have increased the direct sales staff by 20 percent to accommodate the changes. “Working with our strategic dealer partners,” continued Newton, “we intend to shorten the support link to our mutual customers. These dealers are essential to our strategy for successfully improving customer service and satisfaction. They will have access to our service department and www.shop.abdick.com web site for online purchases to benefit their customers. In turn, having their local warehousing and distribution outlets will help us provide greater coverage and quicker deliveries. It’s a true win-win situation for customers.” “Our ability to provide highly focused, knowledgeable and local support people in these markets will make for a seamless and smooth transition period,” said Larry Mascia, A.B.Dick Vice President of Sales. “We have recruited a number of seasoned sales people to handle specific needs in key markets, and we also have been successful in hiring some bright, recent graduates from the very best colleges and universities with noteworthy graphic arts programs. All of these people are up to speed on all of our new products, supplies and services, so our customers will benefit greatly from this change.” Additionally, A.B.Dick has existing factory-trained service technicians in these markets to provide service on equipment for customers. Supplies can be ordered toll-free by telephone at (800) 422-3616, or through a new Internet system at www.shop.abdick.com. This outlet enables customers the value of 24/7 for placing and tracking their orders. A.B.Dick Company is a leading worldwide supplier to the graphic arts and printing industry, manufacturing and marketing equipment and supplies for all stages of document creation -- prepress, press and post-press -- as well as continuing service and support. For more information contact Scott MacKenzie, Vice President, Marketing, 7400 Caldwell Ave., Niles, IL. 60714. Telephone (847) 779-1900, fax (847) 647-6940, web: www.abdick.com.