(Fort Smith, Arkansas, March 26, 2009) — A.J. Phillips, vice president of industrial relations for ABF Freight System, Inc.^®, will retire May 31, 2009, after 37 years of service with the company. Mr. Phillips has served in his current position for the past seven years.

“Throughout his career, A.J. has been a significant contributor to the ongoing success of ABF. He was instrumental in helping ABF improve the services we provide to our customers in the LTL marketplace,” said ABF President and Chief Operating Officer Wes Kemp. “He has been a most valuable asset to the company and will be missed. We congratulate A.J. on a stellar career and wish him and his wife Barbara the very best in the years ahead.”

Mr. Phillips joined ABF^® in Dayton, Ohio, as a dispatch assistant. While in Dayton, Mr. Phillips was promoted to linehaul manager in 1978, operations manager in 1979 and branch manager in 1987. In 1995, he was promoted to regional vice president of operations where he served until he was promoted to his current position. He also oversaw ABF’s Safety & Security department for four of the seven years. 

William D. Evans, who has 30 years experience with ABF, will assume the position vacated by Mr. Phillips.  Previously, Mr. Evans served as regional vice president of operations in Kansas City, Mo.