Charming Shoppes Tries DAVACO Sourcing on for Size; Specialty Apparel Retailer to Deploy DAVACO's Online Procurement Services.

DALLAS -- DAVACO Sourcing, Inc., an online sourcing provider, announced Charming Shoppes, Inc. (Nasdaq:CHRS), a leading retail chain specializing in women's plus-size apparel, signed a one-year agreement with DAVACO Sourcing to manage its upcoming programs for online negotiation of products in various key procurement categories.

According to Jon Goldberg, Vice President of Procurement & Facilities for Charming Shoppes, the retailer was familiar with online negotiations but had never used the services. As the company considered strategic initiatives to help with overall cost reduction, e-sourcing became an obvious solution.

"Consistent with our ongoing focus on cost control, we continue to look for opportunities to streamline our processes and reduce operational costs," says Goldberg. "DAVACO Sourcing offers a contemporary approach that complements our more traditional business processes. We believe by deploying full-service online sourcing, we're positioned to manage our expenditures more effectively and add value to our procurement capabilities."

Joseph Baron, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Charming Shoppes, agrees. "We were extremely impressed with the immediate savings experienced during the test phase with DAVACO Sourcing," says Baron. "Obviously our goal is to reduce the operational cost structure and we are encouraged that online negotiations will enable us to expand our vendor base and help us effectively manage purchases for consumables as well as construction and maintenance services."

DAVACO Sourcing's secure platform enables users to automate the sourcing process to include Web-based RFP development, a communications and value-engineering forum, automated reports and archives, and a qualified global supplier network. The technology features CAD, 3-D rendering and image capabilities for complex bids.

Gena Kay Dixon, DAVACO Sourcing Vice President, explains the relationship is a win-win for both companies. "Our expertise in retail management provides acute insight and perspective into sourcing. That proficiency paired with automating the sourcing process helps give clients, such as Charming Shoppes, a competitive advantage. As a result, we're thrilled to be working with Charming Shoppes to help them achieve a more streamlined and cost-efficient method."

About the Companies

Charming Shoppes, Inc. operates 2,234 stores in 48 states under the names LANE BRYANT(R), FASHION BUG(R), FASHION BUG PLUS(R), and CATHERINES PLUS SIZES(R). Visit www.charmingshoppes.com. DAVACO Sourcing provides services and technologies to support sourcing online. Visit www.davacosourcing.com.