Bridgestone Retail Operations Adds To LineupAutomotive retailer opened 68 new stores and created more than 800 new jobs in 2009

BLOOMINGDALE, Ill. (Feb. 11, 2010) - While Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC (BSRO) is moving forward with its plans to continue expanding in 2010, 2009 brought new customers, teammates and communities that served as an example of just how successful a year’s growth can be.

BSRO, which operates Firestone Complete Auto Care™, Tires Plus™, ExpertTire™ and Wheel Works™, opened 68 new automotive service locations across the country in 2009. As a result, more than 800 new employment opportunities were created.

The new stores feature updated waiting rooms and consultation pods and offer improved bay spacing for customer vehicles. The new store design is part of BSRO’s overall commitment to customer service and the total car care experience. “We’re focused on taking the hassle out of vehicle maintenance,” said Larry Magee, Chairman, CEO and President for BSRO. “By expanding service locations across the country, BSRO strives to better serve customers by making vehicle maintenance more convenient for their busy lives.”

A priority of BSRO is not only to provide the best service to customers, but also to become a valuable member of each and every community in which BSRO is located. Store opening activities in 2009 helped this goal become a reality. In July, Firestone Complete Auto Care became one of the first automotive service providers to re-open in New Orleans, La., after the area was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in September 2005. In December, BSRO announced that its Firestone Complete Auto Care store in Smyrna, Tenn., received Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. In addition, in the spirit of becoming a beneficial member of each community in which the company is located, BSRO gave more than $35,000 to charities across the country in 2009 to commemorate new store openings.

“Our BSRO locations are important parts of their communities where we are committed to making a difference,” said Magee. “By supporting local organizations, area schools and environmental initiatives, our team members serve not only their customers, but the communities and families within them.” Racing legend Mario Andretti greeted the public and signed autographs at four grand opening celebrations in 2009, including Easton, Pa.; Camp Pendleton, Calif.; Pflugerville, Texas; and Carpentersville, Ill.