American Express and Regis Corporation Announce Strategic Partnership; Hair Care Industry's Global Leader to Roll-out Card Acceptance at all of its U.S. Locations

Business Wire, Feb 24, 2005

NEW YORK -- American Express and Regis Corporation today announced a plan for nationwide card acceptance at Regis' U.S. salons. With thousands of locations currently accepting the American Express Card, the companies expect all corporate owned Regis U.S. locations to be accepting American Express by the end of calendar year 2005.

"Our partnership with American Express is in direct response to our customers. Over the last several years we have seen an increasing demand by our customers to accept American Express," commented Kyle Didier, vice president, finance at Regis Corporation. "In addition, American Express' willingness to extend the partnership benefits to our franchisees demonstrates their commitment to drive value throughout the entire Regis Corporation network."

"Working with the world's largest operator of hair salons reinforces our commitment to the hair salon industry overall and demonstrates our ability to drive value to hair salon owners," said Elizabeth Langwith, vice president, American Express Establishment Services. "We're delighted to provide our Cardmembers with another opportunity to earn rewards, cash or miles for their everyday purchases."

The companies will work together to develop marketing programs that deliver value to consumers using American Express-branded cards. In addition, Regis franchise owners will qualify for special discounts on a variety of business expenses ranging from shipping, technology, car rentals and cellular phone service through the American Express Business Savings Program.

About American Express

American Express Company is a diversified worldwide travel, network, and financial services provider founded in 1850. It is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking. For more information, visit www.americanexpress.com.

About Regis Corporation

Regis Corporation (NYSE: RGS) is the industry leader in the hair service business, which includes three distinct, but related, elements: beauty salons, hair restoration centers and beauty schools. As of December 31, 2004, the Company owned or franchised 10,412 hair salons, 91 hair restoration centers and 15 beauty schools operating under concepts such as Supercuts, jean Louis David, Vidal Sassoon, Regis Salons, MasterCuts, trade Secret, SmartStyle, Cost Cutters and Hair Club for Men and Women. These concepts are located in the US and in ten other countries throughout North America. For additional information, visit www.regiscorp.com and Europe.