Ronald P. Spogli Returns to Freeman Spogli Following Successful Term as United States Ambassador to the Italian Republic and the Republic of San Marino

Los Angeles, June 1, 2009 - On June 1, 2009, Ronald P. Spogli, co-founder of Freeman Spogli & Co., returned to the firm following three and a half years as the United States Ambassador to the Italian Republic and the Republic of San Marino. During his successful service term in Italy, Ambassador Spogli was selected as the recipient of the State Department's 2008 Sue M. Cobb Award for Exemplary Diplomatic Service, the only award given by the State Department to a political-appointee Ambassador.

"I am pleased to return to the firm that I co-founded 26 years ago. Despite the challenging environment, I have never been more enthusiastic about the prospects for Freeman Spogli and its investors," said Ambassador Spogli. "The firm's sector specialization and strategic focus as a value investor have served it well."

About Freeman Spogli

Freeman Spogli & Co. (www.freemanspogli.com) is a private equity firm dedicated exclusively to investing and partnering with management in companies in the retailing, direct marketing and distribution industries in the United States. The firm's sector focus provides Freeman Spogli with a detailed knowledge and understanding of changes in consumer and business buying patterns, demographic trends, competitive dynamics and shifting distribution channels. Since its founding in 1983, the firm has invested $2.5 billion in 42 portfolio companies. Freeman Spogli has offices in Los Angeles and New York.

Contact: Bill Wardlaw, Freeman Spogli & Co. 310-444-1825

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