BJ's Wholesale Club Helps Florida Residents Stock up on Hurricane Supplies.

NATICK, Mass. -- As the state of Florida urges residents to prepare for the hurricane season by enacting a tax-free shopping holiday on hurricane supplies, BJ's Wholesale Club is making it easier for Floridians to save while stocking up on emergency necessities.

During the statewide tax-free shopping holiday, which runs from June 1 through June 12, both BJ's Members and non-members are welcome to stock up on hurricane supplies at any of the 19 BJ's Clubs in the state of Florida. Non-members will simply need to visit the Member Services desk at any club to receive a special offer before taking advantage of BJ's low wholesale prices that are up to 30% less than other retailers such as grocery stores, drug stores or supercenters.

BJ's carries every item on the state's approved tax-free hurricane supply list, from batteries, candles and flashlights to coolers, radios and generators - providing Floridians with a convenient, one-stop shopping destination for their hurricane preparation needs. In addition, shoppers can save while stocking up on other emergency necessities not included in the state's list such as bottled water, non-perishable food items and personal care items. According to the American Red Cross, all families should have an emergency preparedness kit that includes essentials such as a three-day supply of water and non-perishable foods, a first-aid kit, non-prescription medication, utility tools and other supplies. For a complete emergency kit checklist, visit http://www.redcross.org/prepare/buildakit.html.

"We applaud the state's efforts to encourage consumers to plan ahead," said Gina Iacovone, vice president of field operations for BJ's Wholesale Club. "After witnessing the devastating effects of the hurricanes that hit Florida last year, we hope Florida residents recognize the importance of advance preparation as we head into the 2005 hurricane season."

Headquartered in Natick, Massachusetts, BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. is a leading operator of warehouse clubs in the eastern United States. The Company currently operates 157 clubs and 82 gas stations in 16 states. For more information about BJ's, please visit www.bjs.com.