ARI Launches New Web Service At Expo 2001.

Business Editors

MILWAUKEE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 19, 2001

ARI Partners with VertX to Provide Template-Based

Web Creation Software to Outdoor Power Dealers

ARI Network Services, Inc. (OTCBB:ARIS), a leading provider of technology-enabled business solutions that connect equipment manufacturers and their service and distribution networks, in partnership with VertX Commerce Corporation of San Diego, Calif., today announced the introduction of a web site creation product designed specifically for dealers in the Outdoor Power Equipment Industry. The new template-based dealer web site creation package will provide dealers with an efficient, easy-to-use way to promote their business on the Internet.

"Our research indicates that most Outdoor Power dealers do not have a web site and those who do are overwhelmed by the work effort required to maintain the site," said Brian E. Dearing, chairman and chief executive officer of ARI. "ARI's new web site creation software will provide dealers with a `plug and play' method to create and maintain an attractive, professional-looking web site, complete with online advertising campaigns, product promotions, performance monitoring and improved customer service."

ARI's dealer web site product is a complete package that includes Internet hosting services, e-mail, professional site design templates, promotional capabilities, whole goods listings, installation and support. The package also includes support for news and events, sales and specials, photo galleries, and an exclusive direct marketing manager.

"Our Internet experts worked with ARI to design a template-based web site specifically for the unique needs of the Outdoor Power Equipment Industry," said Jim Woodruff, president and chief executive officer of VertX. "We are excited to work with ARI, and believe ARI's market leadership in combination with our technology platform will provide exceptional service to the Outdoor Power Industry."

"ARI's PartSmart(TM) electronic parts catalog is used by over 20,000 dealers worldwide, and has been recognized as the de facto standard of excellence in the Outdoor Power Industry for over a decade," said Dearing. "Whether a dealer has a web site or not, we believe that dealers will recognize the value that ARI products have provided them in the past and will respond enthusiastically to our web site creation solution."

VertX Commerce Corporation serves the Internet needs of the powersports industry, offering complete solutions for promoting and selling powersports vehicles, parts, accessories and related products online.

ARI Network Services, Inc. is a leading provider of technology-enabled business solutions for sales, service and life-cycle product support in the manufactured equipment market. ARI currently serves over 100 manufacturers and 20,000 dealers in more than 100 countries in 12 segments of the worldwide manufactured equipment market including outdoor power, recreation vehicle, floor maintenance, auto and truck parts aftermarket, power sports, marine and construction. The Company builds and supports a full suite of multi-media electronic catalog publishing and viewing software for the Web or CD. ARI communications systems provide a global electronic pathway for parts orders, product registrations, warranty claims and other transactions between manufacturers and their networks of sales and service points. ARI currently operates three offices in the United States and one in Europe and has sales and service agents in Australia, England and France providing marketing and support of its electronic catalog and dealer communications products.