February 21, 2004

By: Phill Muller
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Integrated Information Systems to Develop First E-Commerce Site for Major Automotive Parts Retailer

CSK Auto Corporation announced today the official launch of an e-commerce web site by its wholly-owned subsidiary, CSK Auto, Inc., the largest retailer of automotive parts and accessories in the Western United States and one of the largest such retailers in the country.

CSK's e-tailing site is accessible at CSKAUTO.COM. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, CSKAUTO.COM, Inc., CSK Auto, Inc. is the first major auto parts retailer to sell a full assortment of automotive parts and accessories on the Internet. Today's launch represents the first phase of a multi-tiered implementation of a web-based strategy for CSK Auto.

Our expansion into e-commerce is consistent with our philosophy of providing our customers with quality products and service in a manner that is convenient for them to use, said Maynard Jenkins, Chairman and CEO of CSK Auto.

The Internet is having a dramatic effect on the way people shop and conduct business. In order to remain in the forefront and give the consumer what they want and need, CSK Auto has taken the first of several steps in the integration of our traditional services with the web.

Today's official launch represents the completion of a successful beta test that began in late April. The site, which was developed by CSK Auto's IT Group in partnership with Arizona-based Integrated Information Systems (IIS), offers parts, accessories and performance products for cars, vans and trucks.

The site also offers a Hot Deals location where customers can go to buy select items at significantly reduced prices. To maximize CSK's current infrastructure, IIS developed a customized application utilizing Microsoft's Site Server Commerce Edition that ties directly into CSK's order management and credit card authorization systems. In a very short period of time, IIS and CSK were able to develop an e-commerce solution that integrated with CSK's existing operations, said Jim Garvey, President and CEO of IIS.

We are excited about the results to date and are looking forward to the launching of future site enhancements. Consistent with what is available at CSK Auto, Inc.'s family of auto parts stores, the web site offers parts for cars, vans and trucks on models dating back to 1960. If a specific part is not available on the company's web site, customers can e-mail special parts requests. The site accepts all major credit cards and offers free shipping on orders weighing less than 20 lbs.

The introduction of CSKAUTO.com is just the first step in a series of initiatives CSK will be undertaking to help our customers keep up with technological advancements in accessing goods and services. Future enhancements will allow them to also keep up with technological advancements in how to maintain and repair the automobile, said Jenkins.

About The Author:

Phill Muller is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.