AFP Establishes National Distribution, Warehousing & Logistics Agreement with Atlas Fitness Systems

Leading Fitness Facility Supplier Expands National Footprint and Gains Efficiency with Nations Largest Fitness Logistics Entity

CULVER CITY - August 14, 2009 – Advantage Fitness Products (AFP) – a leading provider of full-service fitness facility planning, design, supply and service – announced today a strategic partnership with Americas’ leading national fitness distribution company, Atlas Fitness Systems (Atlas). The agreement between the two industry leaders will make Atlas the official logistics and distribution arm for AFP, significantly extending AFP’s installation capabilities and enhancing its distribution efficiencies nationwide.

The move is yet another in a consistent series of expansion measures that AFP has implemented over the past 18 months despite a challenging economic landscape. AFP more recently has established its Southeast headquarters in Coral Gables, Florida, and has continued to solidify its Northeast capabilities with further expansion into existing markets of New York and New Jersey.  The affiliation with Atlas will allow AFP to further maximize its focus on core business functions in facility design, equipment supply, and ongoing technical service support for its nationwide client base.

“Our partnership with Atlas, the undisputed industry leader in fitness logistics services; will provide a myriad of benefits towards our ongoing growth objectives and most importantly to our clients,” said Bryan Green, President and CEO of AFP.  “This alliance immediately increases the resources we put forth on behalf of our clients during the warehousing and installation process. Most importantly, it will enhance the client experience and directly and positively impact our customer service capabilities nationwide as we continue to grow.”

Atlas Fitness Systems is a wholly-owned subsidiary of McCollister’s Transportation – a logistics and specialized transportation services provider armed with a fleet of over 1,200 vehicles and 1.6 million sq.ft of warehouse space across the United States. McCollister’s is one of the nation’s leading logistics and distribution service providers, with clients comprising Fortune 500 corporations as well as the U.S. Government. Atlas has been in business since 1998 and provides transportation services and Health Club installations for major manufacturers in the fitness industry. In addition, the company contracts with leading health club operators around the country to support their direct installation requirements.

We are excited to be working with such a well-respected fitness products leader,” said Dan McCollister, President of Atlas Fitness Systems and CEO of parent McCollister’s Transportation Group. “Both Advantage Fitness Systems and Atlas are committed to the highest standards in customer care. And while customer service is always important, fitness logistics is a crucial component in the success of any installation, regardless of size. We look forward to leveraging our network, systems and experienced staff in partnership with Advantage Fitness Products to raise the bar on services throughout the industry.” 

As part of the agreement, Atlas will absorb AFP certified and experienced warehouse, delivery, and installation personnel.  Additionally, AFP will extend its inventory management, staging and distribution base from six warehouse facilities to 14 nationwide.  The company intends to further integrate its established technical service division and client support programs within the expanded Atlas facilities.  All installation services conducted on behalf of AFP by Atlas will be undertaken in logo’d AFP uniforms; continuing to maintain the AFP brand identity and the company’s commitment to exceptional customer care and service that its distinguished clientele have come to expect.

About Atlas Fitness Systems:
Atlas Fitness Systems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of McCollister’s Transportation Group, Inc., is the largest fitness equipment logistics company in the United States, providing superior service to fitness equipment manufacturers & distributors, sport & fitness clubs, personal & physical therapy trainers, and exercise enthusiasts nationwide.  Recognized as a leader in high-quality fitness equipment services, Atlas Fitness Systems brings cutting-edge installation services, specialized transportation management systems, national locations and innovative use of technology supporting the Health and Fitness Industry.