BSMB Announces Purchase of Transamerican Auto Parts

Business Wire, Dec 16, 2005

NEW YORK -- Bear Stearns Merchant Banking ("BSMB") today announced the acquisition of Transamerican Auto Parts Company, Inc. and its affiliated entities (collectively, "Transamerican Auto Parts"). Transamerican Auto Parts is a leading retailer, distributor and manufacturer of specialty aftermarket parts and accessories for light trucks, Jeeps, sport utility vehicles and other four-wheel drive vehicles. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

"We are excited about working with our new investors at BSMB and the possibilities that this partnership will bring to our company," said Greg Adler, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transamerican Auto Parts. "BSMB's retail industry expertise will be invaluable as the company enters its next phase of expansion."

"We are thrilled to be partnering with the team at Transamerican Auto Parts," said Bo Arlander, Senior Managing Director of BSMB. "The company has a tremendous growth record, and we look forward to working with Greg and his team to help Transamerican Auto Parts continue this trend."

Kirkland & Ellis acted as legal counsel to BSMB.

About Transamerican Auto Parts:

Founded in the fall of 1961, Transamerican Auto Parts is a leading participant in aftermarket parts and accessories for light trucks, Jeeps, sport utility vehicles, and other four-wheel drive vehicles. The Company sells tires and wheels, suspension systems, drivetrains, accessories, and other products (i) to consumers through 45 retail locations in 17 states under the 4 Wheel Parts Performance Centers name, (ii) to more than 4,000 wholesale customers, including specialty auto parts stores, tire and wheel stores, repair and garage shops, internet retailers and jobbers under the Transamerican Wholesale name, and (iii) to consumers and businesses through mail order and internet operations under the 4 Wheel Parts Wholesalers name. The Company also operates a manufacturing business that sells tires and wheels, suspension systems and accessories under the Pro Comp brand name, both through the Company's own distribution channels as well as through third parties.

About BSMB:

BSMB, the private equity affiliate of Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc., (NYSE: BSC) invests private equity capital in compelling leveraged buyouts, recapitalizations and growth capital opportunities alongside superior management teams. BSMB is currently investing its $1.5 billion institutional private equity fund. Since its inception in 1997, BSMB has been an investor in over 40 portfolio companies across a broad range of industries. Recent investments by BSMB include ACA Capital Holdings, Aearo Corporation, Balducci's, CamelBak Products, Cavalry Investments, Hand Innovations, The John Henry Company, New York & Company, Reddy Ice, Seven For All Mankind, Stuart Weitzman and Vitamin Shoppe. More information about BSMB can be found at www.bsmb.com.