7/9/2002 -- LA VERGNE, TN – John F. Secrest, a veteran book industry executive and distribution specialist, has been named Senior Vice President for Logistics at Ingram Book Group.

"Johnny's career with Ingram spans 26 years," said Michael F. Lovett, President and Chief Executive Officer. "He has been an integral part of the leadership team with respect to our distribution network strategy, including the opening of our new Distribution Center in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, as well as the design and implementation of our new warehouse management system.

"We are very fortunate to have someone with Johnny's leadership skills, Ingram experience, and operations expertise to guide our Logistics Group at this important point in time for Ingram Book Group. Johnny will have a key role in the continuing success of Ingram Book Group as we address our challenges and opportunities in the years ahead."

Most recently, Mr. Secrest has served as Ingram's Vice President for Distribution. In his new role, he has leadership responsibility for coordination of all logistics across Ingram's national distribution system, including the movement of product to and from the four distribution centers. In addition to Chambersburg, Ingram operates distribution facilities in LaVergne, Tennessee; Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Roseburg, Oregon.

Mr. Secrest is a native of Nashville. He and his wife Wilma and their two children reside in Lebanon, Tennessee.

About Ingram Book Group

Ingram Book Group is a leading wholesaler of trade books, spoken audio and magazines. Its operating units include Ingram Book Company, Ingram Periodicals Inc., Ingram International Inc., Ingram Library Services Inc., Spring Arbor Distributors Inc., Tennessee Book Company, Ingram Fulfillment Services Inc., and Ingram Customer Systems Inc.