WATERLOO, ON.—April 8, 2003—Global Beverage Group (GBG), a leading provider of software solutions for the direct-store-delivery (DSD) industry, announced today that it has signed an agreement to acquire Intelligent Computer Systems (ICS), a provider of DSD software and services to the beverage, snack, tobacco and candy distribution markets.

With over 20 years in route distribution solutions, ICS brings its flexible and feature-rich AWARD™ software solution as well as over 200 customers to GBG. This increases GBG’s customer base to over 450.

'“ICS has a stellar reputation in all the market segments that they serve. They recently completed the rigorous Anheuser Busch (A-B) independent software vendor review and AWARD™ is a recommended route accounting system for A-B wholesalers. ICS also strengthens our position with wholesalers of Miller, Coors and other breweries, as well as in the soft drink segment. We are especially excited that the agreement with ICS provides GBG with a very strong entry into the snack food, candy and tobacco market segments,” stated Ted Hastings, CEO of GBG.

With ICS, GBG is executing on its plan to bring world-class direct store delivery solutions to an increasing number of customers. ICS strengthens GBG’s position in the beer market, which started with the GBG and IBMI merger in October 2002. Also, with the GBG and Daugherty Wholesaler Solutions alliance, GBG customers now have the collective input and investment of 900 customers.

Roy Minet, President of ICS said, “This agreement is extremely positive for the future of both ICS customers and employees. ICS customers will have access to new products that had not yet been developed by ICS – truck loading, truck routing, warehouse and mobile solutions. Also, the ICS product suite will enjoy increased market opportunities through the significant GBG sales and marketing team. Additional resources will also enable us to accelerate key R&D initiatives. This is clearly the right move for the long-term benefit of the ICS customer base, employees and products. We are definitely excited about joining this team.”

GBG will continue to operate ICS out of its offices in Lancaster, PA. GBG also has offices in Austin, Denver, Charlotte, Durham, and Waterloo, Ontario.