63 Penske Auto Centers Affected By Kmart Store Closings

TROY, Mich., March 8 -- Penske Auto Centers announced that 63 of its auto centers were affected by Kmart's announcement today that it will close 284 stores. The auto centers will close immediately and the majority of the approximately 300 employees impacted by the closings will be retained at remaining Penske Auto Centers.

President and CEO Jim Wheat stated, ``We expect the impact of these closings on our business will be minimal. I'm pleased to say that the remaining 562 auto centers are strong and performing well. Penske Auto Centers remains the largest independent tire service dealer in the country. Our team is committed to continue providing the 'Quality Car Care' service that our customers have come to expect.''

Further commenting, ``As always, our customers' products and service warranties will be honored by any Penske Auto Center nationwide.'' A toll-free number -- 1-877-99-PENSKE -- is available for customers to locate an auto center nearest them. Other questions can be addressed by calling Penske Auto Centers' Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-800-889-5458.

Penske Auto Centers LLC is the largest independent tire dealer in the United States with 562 locations and 4,000 employees nationwide. In addition to its strong presence in the marketplace for tire sales, Penske Auto Centers provides 30-minute oil changes, wheel alignments, ATF fluid exchanges and brake service. Integral to the Company's overall success are its strategic partnerships with organizations such as Kmart, Goodyear, ExxonMobil, NAPA and Snap-On. For more information go to www.penskeautocenters.com

SOURCE: Penske Auto Centers LLC