Snap-on Named Exclusive Supplier to Sterling Auto Body Centers

KENOSHA, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 9, 2001--Snap-on Incorporated (NYSE:SNA) announced today that it has been named as the exclusive supplier of equipment to Sterling Collision Centers, a national chain of auto body repair centers.

As part of the two-year agreement, Snap-on will outfit 38 existing and 40 new Sterling facilities with a complete set of equipment ranging from vehicle lifts to paint booths and from frame straighteners to PC-based measuring equipment.

Sterling's method of standardizing the collision repair process meshes well with Snap-on's total solutions approach to delivering productivity enhancing products and services. Sterling is a consolidator in the collision repair industry and is able to repair cars 40 percent faster than the national average of 13.5 days.

"We chose to partner with Snap-on because of its reputation for quality and craftsmanship," said Jon McNeill, chief executive officer of Sterling. "No other vendor could provide the full range of equipment we needed. Snap-on's foresight in offering the total package from financing to service and everything in between was a key factor in our decision and will play an important role in Sterling's continued growth."

"Snap-on is pleased to have the opportunity to support Sterling in its rapidly expanding collision repair center needs," said David E. Cox, vice president of equipment for Snap-on. "Snap-on is the total solutions provider and our ability to provide a full range of capabilities to meet virtually every need in the automotive service environment helps our customers become more productive and profitable."

Based in Natick, Massachusetts, Sterling Collision Centers was established in 1997 to create a branded national chain of high quality, collision repair centers. The chain is committed to repairing vehicles quickly and conveniently. Sterling currently owns and operates 38 automobile collision repair facilities in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Snap-on Incorporated is a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of tool and equipment solutions for professional tool users. Product lines include hand and power tools, diagnostics and shop equipment, tool storage products, diagnostics software and other solutions for the transportation service, industrial, government, education and agricultural industries, and other commercial applications, including construction and electrical. Products are sold through its franchised dealer van, company direct sales and distributor channels, and the Internet. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2+ billion, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin and employs approximately 14,000 worldwide.

For additional information on Snap-on, visit www.snapon.com or:

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