10th May 2005 - ARI (American Remanufacturers, Inc.) Names Robert Smith Sr. CEO

Larry Pavey, former CEO (hired from Dana Corporation in 2003), no longer with ARI

American Remanufacturers, Inc. (ARI) today announced the return of Robert Smith, Sr. to lead all day-to-day activities and to serve as an advisor to the Board.  Robert Smith, Jr., will also be rejoining the organization.

Smith, Sr., who retired from ARI in April 2004, is the former Chairman of ARI and co-founder of Car Components Technologies, Inc. (CCT), which merged with ARI in March of 2003.  Rob Smith, Jr., also a co-founder of CCT, will be bringing years of remanufacturing experience and strong vendor and customer relationships to the organization.

"I look forward to returning to the automotive aftermarket and getting back to work at ARI.  We have great ideas for the future and an outstanding team of dedicated people.  Together, we will continue to develop creative solutions for our customers and vendor partners," said Smith, Sr.

Additionally, ARI announced that Brian Johnson has been named Chief Financial Officer.  Johnson was formerly CFO of Pliant Corporation, a leading producer of value-added film and flexible packaging products for personal care, medical, food, industrial and agricultural markets with annual sales in excess of $900 million.

“Although new to the automotive aftermarket, Johnson is a versatile executive,” said Smith Sr.  “In addition to his financial acumen, he has several years of operational leadership experience under his belt.  This will be invaluable with respect to finalizing the integration of the ARI businesses and creating the foundation for the company’s growth strategy.”

Effective with these changes, ARI also stated that Larry Pavey left the company and his position on the Board.  Pavey joined ARI in May 2003 as Chief Executive Officer and was subsequently named Chairman.

“I’ve known Larry for many years, as do many people in the industry.  We wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said Smith, Sr.

ARI is a leading manufacturer and distributor of new and remanufactured maintenance parts for the North American automotive aftermarket.  The company operates five manufacturing facilities, and employs approximately 2,500 people.   For more information, visit www.ariparts.com.

Source: ARI Press Release