WIX Filters Receives Vendor of the Year Award from O’Reilly Auto Parts

Monday, 20 February 2006

Filter Manufacturer Recognized for Outstanding Sales and Service Support

GASTONIA, N.C. (Feb. 20, 2006) – WIX Filters recently received the 2005 Vendor of the Year Award for field representation from O’Reilly Auto Parts, the latest in a series of honors the filtration manufacturer has earned for its commitment to customer service.

“When a customer as prestigious as O’Reilly tells us that we have the best sales force, we know we are on the right track,” said Bill Sheehan, vice president of sales, WIX Filters. “We are honored to receive this award, and we will continue to do all we can to provide our customers with the service they have come to expect from WIX Filters.”

WIX was recognized for outstanding sales and service support in the large manufacturer class. More than 2,000 people attended the awards presentation, which was held in conjunction with O’Reilly’s annual manager’s conference in Dallas and included a keynote address by racing legend Richard Petty.

O’Reilly Auto Parts is one of the largest specialty retailers of automotive aftermarket parts, tools, supplies, equipment and accessories in the United States, serving both the do-it-yourself and professional installer markets. Founded in 1957 by the O’Reilly family, the company operates over 1400 stores across the United States.

Since 1939, WIX Filters has been an innovator in filtration products. WIX designs, manufactures and distributes products for automotive, diesel, agricultural, industrial and specialty filter markets. Its product line includes oil, air, cabin interior, fuel, coolant, transmission and hydraulic filters for automobiles, trucks and off-road equipment. WIX, a member of the Affinia family of brands, is the number one filter in NASCAR and an exclusive NASCAR Performance Product. Its NASCAR relationship also includes the WIX Filters Lap Leader Award, which recognizes the drivers leading the most laps in each race. WIX Filters’ Internet address is www.wixfilters.com.