Champion Automotive Group Names Karen McKemie as General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Houston

HOUSTON--May 2, 20044, 2004--Greenway Plaza Mercedes-Benz, a member of the Champion Automotive Group, named Karen McKemie as its General Manager this month. Ms. McKemie is the first woman to be appointed general manager of the dealership.

McKemie is part of only a small percentage of women holding operational positions in the automotive industry. "Being a woman general manager -- especially of such a high-profile dealership -- is still something of an anomaly in the industry," says McKemie. "People are often surprised when I introduce myself as the general manager."

However, it wasn't being a woman that moved McKemie to the top spot at Greenway. She has over 20 years of proven problem-solving skills and a solid business background.

With women purchasing 32% of all new cars and influencing 80% of car purchases, the auto industry is becoming less of a man's world. McKemie says her dealership has female service managers and sales staff in addition to the expected male workforce. "I think women appreciate seeing other women on the sales floor."

McKemie is quick to point out that she is not catering to women only. "I want everyone to feel comfortable when they walk through the doors of my dealership. I hire my sales and service staff not based on gender but on their skills and how well they reflect the philosophy of Mercedes-Benz of Houston, Greenway."

And what is the dealership's philosophy? "We are very committed to providing an exceptional customer experience, laden with integrity, in sales and service. We always endeavor to do the right thing for our customers," says Ms. McKemie. "My goal as general manager is to restore customer confidence and to renew our outreach to customers. I think all of our customers -- men and women -- will be impressed with our culture changes."

AutoNation, Inc., headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is America's largest automotive retailer. Ranked No. 97 on the 2004 Fortune 500 and a component of the Standard and Poor's 500 Index, AutoNation employs approximately 28,000 people and owns and operates 365 franchises in 18 states. Champion Automotive Group is the brand name for more than 25 AutoNation stores operating in South Texas. Champion employs 2,500 associates and has more than 10,000 vehicles. For additional information about AutoNation or Champion Automotive, visit their websites at www.AutoNation.com, or www.championdealers.com.