(Fort Smith, Arkansas, February 26, 2001) -- ABF Freight System, Inc.^® has been named E-comm Innovator of the Year by Network World magazine. The story can be accessed online at www.nwfusion.com/ecomm2001/, detailing the innovation provided at abf.com. The article describes how ABF has successfully made the transformation from an old economy to a new economy company, blending its eCenter^® suite of logistics tools with a strong physical presence in the marketplace.

"For many companies, eCommerce causes as many problems as it solves. But ABF stands as an example of how to do eCommerce right," said Julie Bort, Network World's Signature Series Executive Editor. "Their network design lets the mainframe be accessed by anything from web browsers to telephones to wireless devices. This, in turn, has freed them to create loads of innovative online features."

Network World's E-comm Innovator of the Year Award is bestowed on a company that approaches B2B eCommerce with a well-thought out business plan, intimate knowledge of their customers, and strong technology underpinnings. In addition, according to Network World, the winning company must have "extraordinary business-to-business eCommerce initiatives" and "must have advanced the use of eCommerce technology while supporting business objectives."

David Stubblefield, ABF President and CEO, commented, "We're obviously pleased that Network World has recognized our use of technology to make life easier for our customers. The focus of ABF's Internet site has always been to add value for our customers through innovation. From simple tracking to shipment rerouting to advanced logistics planning, abf.com has simplified shipping for thousands of customers."

ABF plans continued expansion of its eCommerce services. "We don't plan to rest on our past accomplishments," added Bob Davidson, Vice President - Marketing and Pricing. "Great companies keep pushing the envelope. Companies like General Motors, Staples, Eastman Chemical and others found on the honorable mention list for this award also deserve recognition for their ground-breaking initiatives."

Network World, Inc., a division of IDG, is a leading provider of news analysis, reviews, events and education on information technology. Network World publishes Network World, hosts online community Network World Fusion, and produces educational seminars and events worldwide. IDG publishes more than 300 magazines and newspapers and 4,000 book titles. Company information is available at www.idg.com.

ABF Freight System, Inc. is one of the nation's largest and most experienced motor carriers, offering direct service to all 50 states, nine Canadian provinces, Guam and Puerto Rico. In addition to the carrier's broad service to Mexico, the company also offers international service to more than 130 other countries through 230 ports. ABF also provides guaranteed expedited service for time-critical and time-definite shipments via its TimeKeeper^® service. ABF is the largest subsidiary of Arkansas Best Corporation (NASDAQ/NMS-"ABFS").