(KANSAS CITY) – Barkley has been awarded a national marketing assignment by the country’s largest retail tire franchisor, Big O Tires, Inc. In preliminary work with the client, Barkley conducted target audience segmentation studies, consumer focus groups and a comprehensive brand repositioning recommendation. Based on this initial work, Big O Tires will launch a Barkley-developed multi-media re-branding campaign in 2nd quarter 2007. Additionally, Barkley will work closely with Big O Tires, Inc. to set a framework for marketing and in-store efforts for its 540+ franchisees.

“Big O’s point of differentiation is that our franchisee owners offer a better overall customer experience than our competitors,” said Steve Steffens, VP - Marketing,     Big O Tires, Inc. “Barkley’s extensive experience with franchised retail brands will help us spread that customer experience message to consumers.”

“We are pleased to be working with Big O Tires,” said Marty Wenzell, SVP, Director of Client Strategy, Barkley. “Our challenge is to market a national brand on a local level. We feel confident we can further mobilize Big O’s customer base with their revitalized message.”

About Barkley:
Barkley is the largest employee-owned agency of its kind. Founded in 1964, the company has over 300 partners offering a full range of marketing communications services including advertising, public relations, cause branding, sponsorships & events, relationship marketing, design, media planning & buying, motion graphics, research and interactive marketing. Barkley is headquartered in Kansas City with field offices across the nation.

About Big O Tires, Inc.:
Headquartered in Denver, Big O Tires, Inc. serves over 540 franchised stores, primarily in the western and midwestern states, and also distributes tires and other automotive service products to Associated Dealers in Western Canada. Since 1996, Big O Tires has operated as a subsidiary of Florida-based TBC Corporation. www.bigotires.com