Northern Tool + Equipment to Cover Sales Tax on Generators Priced Above $1,000 State Threshold; Do-It-Yourself Retailer Delivers More Power to Storm-Weary Residents.

BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- The State of Florida has declared a sales tax reprieve beginning May 21 on generator purchases under $1,000. But for residents looking to create enough electricity to power a home or business after a power outage, not every generator will deliver. To bridge the gap, Northern Tool + Equipment is offering the same tax-savings advantage to residents seeking more power by discounting the cost of sales tax on generators exceeding the $1,000 ceiling set by the Florida State Legislature through June 1.

Hurricanes have increased in number and intensity in recent years, and Floridians have learned to cope with the anticipation and the aftermath of strong winds, toppled trees and torrential rains. But when a storm passes, cleaning up and returning to life-as-usual can be difficult or impossible without power.

While smaller generators are ideal for running things like coffee pots or televisions, large appliances and light industrial equipment require more powerful units. For example, pressure washers for post-storm clean-up, air conditioners to modulate indoor temperatures and pumps to remove water from a boat or leaking basement can require thousands of watts of power.

Northern Tool + Equipment stores carry more than 30 generator models in all sizes and price ranges, from manufacturers such as Honda, NorthStar, Guardian and Coleman. While many lower wattage-producing generators fall within Florida's sales tax criteria, larger units can far exceed the sales tax relief ceiling. Having adequate power can mean the difference between a family getting back on its feet or a business re-opening its doors.

"We understand the needs of Florida residents who face natural disasters, and we want to help them to be prepared for the next emergency," said Roger Bunn, Vice President of Sales, Northern Tool + Equipment. "Generators are an essential tool in clean-up and rebuilding efforts, especially for families with children or a business proprietor trying to recover, and we don't want the $1,000 ceiling for tax-free generators to deter our customers from buying the best product for their needs."

In anticipation of the 2006 hurricane season, sales of generators at Northern Tool + Equipment have been on the rise since February. The company manufactures its own line of NorthStar(TM) generators, allowing local stores to carry a larger inventory than most retailers. In response to consumer demand, Northern Tool + Equipment plans to make additional shipments of generators to each of its Florida retail stores to help ensure a wide selection of inventory remains in stock throughout hurricane season.

To speak live with a Northern Tool generator expert, consumers can call a 24-hour hotline [phone]), visit a local retail store or log on to www.northerntool.com for information on generator models, recommendations for purchasing a unit and tips for safe installation and operation.

Northern Tool + Equipment has been a supplier of high-quality tools and equipment for more than 25 years, selling products through direct mail, the Internet and at more than 50 retail locations in 11 states, including Florida stores in North Miami, Cutler Ridge, West Dade, Fort Myers, North Fort Myers and Tampa.

Along with a deep selection of hand, power and air tools, Northern Tool + Equipment carries a wide variety of products, including chainsaws, water pumps, gas cans, roof tarps, flashlights and other hurricane-related equipment.

Northern Tool + Equipment also serves as the exclusive distributor of NorthStar(TM) brand equipment, which is fabricated and assembled at the company's manufacturing facility in Minnesota.

Northern Tool + Equipment's corporate headquarters are located in Burnsville, Minn. For more information, please visit www.northerntool.com.