FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

12/30/2005

Photo Distribution Companies Create Alliance To Better Serve Clients and Industry

Cleveland, Ohio - Three major photo-industry distributors, Wooden Nickel Albums, Benton, Kentucky; Crown Photo Products, Dallas Texas; and Western Photographic Supplies Inc., Garden Grove, CA; announced today a cooperative alliance between their companies for the mutual benefit of their businesses and their customers. 

Previously these companies have operated as separate business units of The Chilcote Company, a national photo-industry supplier. The alliance will allow the three companies to combine their resources to create compatible services and catalogs, as well as a shared presence in industry advertising, trade shows, and exhibits.

Brian Hrdlicka, manager of the newly formed cooperative efforts, explained the alliance by stating, “These three companies have been doing business separately and competitively.  By aligning our efforts we will be able to work more efficiently and effectively.  Our distribution facilities are strategically located to serve customers both locally and across the country.  By employing a common identity and working together we will be able to create a combined presence in the industry and provide better product selection and delivery to our customers nationwide.”

He further commented, “Our tagline, Working Together . . . With Your Image In Mind, helps to deliver the dual message of our goal to help photographers present great photo images while also enhancing their business image, and profitability, through the practical use of professional photo packaging and presentation options.”

The Chilcote Company, established in 1906, proudly celebrates 100 years of business in 2006.  Chilcote, an employee-owned company headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio is the parent company of photography industry brands such as Taprell Loomis (TAP), Topflight Albums, Flora Professional Albums, and Culver Art & Frame.

# # #

For additional Information please contact:

Brian Hrdlicka
The Chilcote Company
Distribution Brand Manager
Professional Markets
216.781.6000 ext 2442

bhrdlicka@chilcotecompany.com