Penske Logistics Earns Industry Certification for Facility Management

READING, Pa., Jan. 14, 2011 – Whirlpool Corporation's regional distribution center in Perris, Calif. operated by Penske Logistics has earned certification and a top rating of 93.6 percent from the Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC). The certification and rating indicate the facility follows industry best operational practices.

The 1.7 million-square-foot facility earned its certification through the WERC Warehouse Facility Certification program. The voluntary program offers an unbiased, professional review of warehousing practices that includes a facility inspection and process assessment by an independent auditor against an industry-standard grading methodology.

"Whirlpool expects high standards from its suppliers, and this is just another independent indication of the high-quality service Penske provides," said Kevin O'Meara, Whirlpool Senior Director of Supply Chain Operations. "We are thrilled to see Penske be recognized for their warehouses processes and execution and congratulate the entire Penske team on this great accomplishment."

"From the very beginning, Penske and Whirlpool approached the certification program as partners," stated Michael Mikitka, WERC Chief Executive Officer. "It was no surprise to see their commitment to their partnership come through in the best practices exhibited in their Perris, Calif. facility."
"We are very pleased to be recognized by WERC and to be among the early third-party logistics providers to go through this certification process," said Terry Miller, Executive Vice President – Operations, Penske Logistics. "I especially congratulate our associates for their efforts and performance to rank the Perris facility among the industry's best."

Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $17 billion in 2009, 67,000 employees, and 67 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com.

Penske Logistics is a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Truck Leasing. With operations in North America, South America, Europe and Asia, Penske Logistics provides supply chain management and logistics services to major industrial and consumer companies throughout the world. Penske Logistics delivers value through design, planning and execution in transportation, warehousing, and international freight forwarding and carrier management. Visit www.penskelogistics.com to learn more.

Warehousing Education and Research Council is the only professional association focused exclusively on warehouse management and its role in the supply chain. Members are experts from all facets of the distribution industry who come together to share practical knowledge and professional expertise to improve individual and industry performance. Learn more at www.WERC.org.