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Memo #2: Important Notice from AutoIMS Related to Coronavirus

As public concerns about the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to change on a daily basis, AutoIMS has implemented our Business Continuity Plan (BCP). We continue to provide guidance to our employees and contractors, consistent with CDC guidelines. Listed below are the most recent steps we have taken that pertain to our employees, clients, offices, data center, and finally updated changes to our visitor policy:

Employees, Office, and Datacenter Preparedness:

1. Full implementation of our BCP beginning on 3/17/2020 through 4/13/2020. All employees are working from home.

2. We are deeming travel as non-essential for this month. Also, any business-critical travel has to be cleared with the CEO (Unchanged).

3. Our production data center has already shared its readiness for the COVID-19 situation and has provided updates as the situation changes.

4. Our management team continues to actively monitor the evolving situation and will take action as needed including the extension of the BCP.

Visitor Policy Change:

Out of abundance of caution, and with the safety of our employees, clients, and you in mind, AutoIMS is asking our third party providers and consultants to avoid all non-essential onsite visits to AutoIMS facilities. Any requested visits must be approved by the CEO.

Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter. AutoIMS's Business Continuity teams will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and we will update you when this added guidance is no longer needed. Please ensure that your organization cascades this message to any employees or subcontractors that support any AutoIMS engagements.

AutoIMS Statement Related to Coronavirus

As public concerns about the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) increase, AutoIMS has implemented guidance for employees and contractors, consistent with CDC guidelines. Listed below are some of the steps we have undertaken that pertain to our employees, offices, data center, and finally the changes to our visitor policy:

Employees, Office, and Datacenter Preparedness:

1. We distributed a memo (listed at the bottom of this memo) company-wide on March 3rd based on guidance from CDC.

2. We have cleaning supplies, hand sanitizers, etc. in the high traffic zones in our office.

3. We have educated our managers to ensure they send employees to work from home if anyone reports flu-like symptoms resembling coronavirus.

4. We have mandated any employees suspecting coronavirus infection to stay home for the requisite 14 days (as per current guidance).

5. We are deeming travel as non-essential for this month. Also, any business-critical travel has to be cleared with the CEO.

6. As part of our BCP, we have the technological capability to work from home for an extended period of time.

7. Our production data center has already shared its readiness for the COVID-19 situation.

8. Building management has taken steps to provide hand sanitizer in the lobby.

9. Office cleaning company is using virucide to help reduce the spread of viruses.

10. Our management team is actively monitoring the evolving situation and will take action as needed.

Visitor Policy Change:

Out of abundance of caution, and with the safety of our employees, customers, and you in mind, AutoIMS is asking our third party providers and consultants to avoid all non-essential onsite visits to AutoIMS facilities.

If you have recently visited a AutoIMS facility, or are planning an upcoming visit, additional considerations apply: if you, a family member, or someone you have come in close contact with has traveled to a Level 3 travel restricted country (currently Iran, Italy, China and South Korea) in the last 14 days, or exhibited symptoms associated with or has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, we ask that you disclose this information to your AutoIMS contact and postpone any in-person meetings or site visits until after you are symptom free for 14 days.

Thank you for your understanding and support in this matter. AutoIMS's Business Continuity teams will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and we will update you when this added guidance is no longer needed. Please ensure that your organization cascades this message to any employees or subcontractors that support a AutoIMS engagement.

CDC Level 3 Travel Heath Notices are listed here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html

AutoIMS - Employee Memo COVID-19

The Georgia Department of Public Health reports that there are 2 confirmed cases in Georgia and the risk of COVID-19 for Georgians is low at this time. While this information is reassuring, we understand that there are concerns about this new virus. Additionally, the recent announcement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encouraging communities to prepare for the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S. has raised new questions. As always we recommend that people stay home when sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and practice good handwashing hygiene. These recommendations are especially important during cold and flu season.

Below are everyday actions you and your family can take to stay healthy.

• Sneeze and cough into your elbow or cover with a tissue. In other words, keep germs off your hands. Put used tissues in a wastebasket and then wash your hands.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Don't share personal items, including toothbrushes, towels, cups/glasses, utensils, etc.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are frequently touched, using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe following the instructions on the label.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Remember Auto Auction Services has the ability to work from home when needed. We will keep you updated. If you have specific questions or concerns, please speak to your manager.

Additional Resources and Information:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
iGeorgia Department of Public Health

Connect & Thrive – Elevating the Conversation

Just down the hall from “Chad’s Diner” at this year’s National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) annual meeting in Indianapolis, the AutoIMS leadership team hosted a lively roundtable discussion with a full room of nearly 30 consignor attendees. The gist of the conversation? Getting focused on the problems that are worth solving.

“So often our clients approach us with a solution already in mind. When we explore the problems they are trying to solve, and how those problems ultimately tie to larger corporate objectives like profitability, the solution takes a better shape, and the value the client receives is multiplied,” said AutoIMS CEO, Venkat Krishnamoorthy.

That approach also helps steer AutoIMS to develop solutions that have broader appeal, lowering the cost of new tools for all clients. This is very apparent as it relates to the evolving network of industry vendors–beyond auctions and consignors–to which AutoIMS connects. Over forty 3^rd party companies are already connected to AutoIMS, allowing clients to tap in to data sources and relieve the administrative burdens of transportation, insurance, repossession, titling, and many other process areas.

“We’re changing our mindset and lowering the barriers for new parties to get connected,” said AutoIMS Chief Technology Officer, Robert Williams. “We see the value it brings when clients can leverage AutoIMS connections to eliminate manual processes without developing direct connections.”

Shining examples can be found in the area of auto transport. AutoIMS already connects to nameplate transporters like Ready Logistics, CarsArrive, RPM, United Road, and more. These custom data integrations help consignors, auctions, and the transporters work together in a more automated fashion, avoiding manual data entry, and speeding the entire process of moving a car.

“But transportation is also an area primed for innovation and improvement,” added VP of Client Experience, Joe Miller. “In early 2020 we hope to release a new data specification to guide transporters and repo agents through a straight-forward, standardized, affordable two-way connection with AutoIMS.”

That approach to data standardization is one of the strategies that puts AutoIMS in the center of so many mission-critical business processes for the remarketing industry today.

“Evolving our 3^rd party connectivity is now a priority based on what we’ve heard as we’ve become better listeners and enhanced our client conversations,” added Venkat. “When the client’s values are mutually understood, we are able to help achieve meaningful cost savings, better returns, enhanced compliance and more.”

Holiday Hours

December 24: 8:00am - Noon ET
December 25: Closed for Christmas
December 31: 8:00am - Noon ET
January 1: Closed for New Year's Day

20th Anniversary Logo Hunt a Huge Success

Thanks to all of our fantastic users who donned their digital camouflage and went logo hunting (no logos were hurt in the making of this contest).

Judging by the results, and the prize budget which we more than doubled, many of you enjoyed finding our commemorative logo around the site. We heard from a number of users that they learned a thing or two about AutoIMS along the way

Highlights:

• The first 20 winners completed the contest by 1pm on 5/21 – the first day of the contest!
• The jackpot drawing was expanded to 2 iPad winners – congrats Rony Perez from Westlake, and Tina Moore from 166 Auto Auction!
• The first 80 winners received some special AutoIMS swag in the mail
• Another 200 winners got a Dunkin’ Donuts eGift card
• And finally, a randomly-drawn user from the last group of winners will get one of our Built-In Partnership t-shirts
• Nearly 500 users completed the challenge, and well over 1,000 of you found at least 1 logo

Once again, congratulations and thank you for having fun with us as we celebrate our 20 years of service to you.

20th Anniversary Logo Hunt Update

Thanks for participating in our contest and helping us celebrate 20 years of partnership with you! The iPad winners have been contacted. All other gifts have been distributed. But guess what? The contest runs until July 20th. We will pool all the winners between now and then and have one last drawing for a special gift set from AutoIMS. Keep on hunting, and good luck!

Contest Rules:

• Logo Hunt winners from June 7- July 20, 2018 will be entered into a drawing for a special AutoIMS prize.
• Consignor and Auction users are eligible to participate.
• The contest will run from May 20 until July 20, 2018.
• Here's the logo you're searching for:
  
  
  
  
  
  
• When you find the 20th anniversary logo, click on it. The logo will disappear after presenting you with the total number of logos you have captured.
• If you have questions, please contact our Client Support team at clientsupport@autoims.com or 1-888-683-2272 .

Happy Hunting!

White Paper: Simplifying Auction Charges

We are pleased to offer this white paper for our clients, member auctions, and industry partners. The paper, "Simplifying Auction Charges," offers proven ideas to assist commercial/institutional sellers and their auctions with a common set of business process and technology challenges related to the financials of selling vehicles at auctions. The insights and findings within are a direct reflection of our experience working with consignors striving to:

• Optimize their use of existing AutoIMS tools
• Create new approaches to solving age-old issues
• Maximize their return on technology investments

Click here for the white paper.

AutoIMS Holiday Schedule

• Friday December 23, 2016:       Closing at 12:00pm EST
• Monday December 26, 2016:    Closed for Christmas Day (observed)
• Friday December 30, 2016:       Closing at 12:00pm EST
• Monday January 02, 2017:        Closed for New Year's Day (observed)

Happy Holidays to everyone!

AutoIMS Year in Review - 2015

Auto Auction Services Corp. (AutoIMS) is pleased to report another productive and innovative year in 2015. Gearing up for increased volumes, automating more processes, and offering new intelligence from data were some of the major themes of our client conversations this past year. Here's a recap of some of the resulting accomplishments:

Introduced the Sale Calendar for all users at no cost

Introduced Run History for all users at no cost

Launched new, internal CRM system

Completed hardware and software upgrades while maintaining up-time promises

Addressed new regulatory concerns for financial/banking clients

Grew the use of zip-code level mapping and automated auction assignments

Introduced new, AutoIMS membership options for online auction portals

Introduced new, AutoIMS membership options for marshaling facilities

Established or expanded a range of new and existing 3rd party connections, including:

• Allied
• All State Title Service
• C.A.R.S.
• iRepo
• RDN
• Ready Auto Transport
• RMS
• Van Wagenen

Created new Web Service data back offering

Worked with individual consignors and the IARA to enhance build data availability in AutoIMS

Completed new, custom floor pricing workflows for several consignors

Updated and supported IsItFrame?TM and AutoGradeTM industry resources

Congratulated our employees on their educational achievements:

• Lee Clark
• Mike Greene
• Vimala Shirur
• Kellee Watson

Created new web service for ServNet auctions to access MMR values

Welcomed multiple new consignors and auctions to AutoIMS membership

Now, what does 2016 hold? We want to help you move the needle to success, and look forward to continued partnership. Visit www.autoimssolutions.com for new ideas, or contact us any time: clientsupport@autoims.com or 888-683-2272.

Remarketing Data Insights and Best Practices for Credit Unions

AutoIMS was recently invited to present a phone seminar to the Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL). Customer Service Director Joe Miller pulled some fresh, Credit Union-specific data out of the AutoIMS database and spoke about our observations of how remarketers can be successful in today's auto lending landscape. Topics range from leasing penetration, to floor pricing, to managing auction fees, to compliance, and beyond.

Click here to listen to the audio of the presentation.

Click here for the handout.

NAAA and AutoIMS Partner to Introduce IsItFrame?

The service formerly known as Kink Or Bend is now available to NAAA members at IsItFrame.com. As part of its ongoing expansion and enhancement of membership services, the National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) acquired Kink Or Bend in August of 2014, and partnered with AASC to re-brand and maintain this valuable industry tool going forward. The core technology offering remains the same, helping auction members quickly determine if the potentially costly disclosure of a quarter panel replacement is required on any particular vehicle.

IsItFrame.com will continue to host the compilation of all Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) information into a single database, assimilating statistics on 500 vehicle frame parts within a single, web-based search engine.

NAAA will now offer the data as a free service to assist the association's more than 300 member auctions in complying with the structural damage disclosure policy. Members can access the site at naaa.com, autoims.com, or IsItFrame.com; and will be automatically redirected from kinkorbend.com which will be discontinued.

Questions? Visit the FAQ page at IsItFrame.com or contact Frank Hackett with NAAA (hackett@naaa.com)

Landing Pages Have Arrived

Got somebody new on the team? Ever wondered about a specific AutoIMS process but didn't want to ask? Our new landing pages were built with you in mind. Just click on any button in the gray navigation bar and you will arrive on a page describing each link, and what it could mean to you. From there, go directly to the described page. In a nutshell, everything available in the dropdown menus on the navigation bar is explained and “clickable”, making training a piece of cake for anyone new to AutoIMS.

2012 Marks Another Big Year For AutoIMS Enhancements

In retrospect, 2012 proved to be another year of strong achievement for Auto Auction Services Corp. (AASC). Here we give you some of the highlights, not only to sing our own praises, but to remind you of all the great new features, functions, and value that can be derived as a member auction, consignor, or integrated 3rd party with AutoIMS.

All of these accomplishments result from our interaction with you, the remarketing industry, so we also like to take this opportunity to say, "thank you!"

• Major enhancements to the look, feel, and navigation of AutoIMS.com, including a more user-friendly menu system
• Official Launch of the AutoIMS Hub - Partnership with OVE marks the release of this new tool for creating and managing online sales
• LiveAnalytics - A new, sophisticated tool to measure the performance of your business using AutoIMS data
• RecoveryIMS Premium - A major update to the repossession agent-facing program providing repossession vendors new features to better serve their clients:
• Multiple Logins
• Combined Client Access
• User Management
• Overhauled LivePricing to bring this tool front and center to improve floor pricing processes
• Data Expanders - New columns added that provide expandable information directly in a report for added convenience
• Customer Service Tools upgrade - Enhancements to issue diagnosis and EDI log tools help our CS team get answers to you more efficiently
• Mobile Apps for Android - A convenient search app and a mobile version of our LiveCRwriter program
• Tip of the Week - Weekly AutoIMS user advice email digest, customized for both consignors and auctions

The 2013 development pipeline promises even more innovations, tighter integration with our clients, and increased value to our users. What's on your AutoIMS wishlist? It's never a bad time to contact us with your feedback, ideas, or suggestions: Client Support or (888) 683-2272.

AutoIMS Training Available

Join AutoIMS experts for interactive training sessions in November.

November 8, 2012; 11:00am ET - Getting Started with the AutoIMS Hub for Auctions;Click to Register:

Throughout November: New User Training for Any User; Email to register with your preferred date and time.

One-on-one training is always available; simply contact us to get started. Email to register or call us at (888) 683-2272.

AutoIMS Moves Forward with Hub Technology

Introduces Tools for Managing Multiple In-Lane and Online Selling Channels.

September 25, 2012 (Atlanta, GA) Juggling vehicle bids and sales between multiple online and physical auction platforms is not an easy task. After months of development, testing, and client feedback, AutoIMS now addresses these challenges directly by offering commercial consignors and auctions an integrated system to manage inventory through online and in-lane selling venues. The new Hub extends the proven inventory management tools of AutoIMS to the world of online sales.

Working with OVE, a key part of Manheim's Online Marketplace, and a leading internet selling platform in the wholesale auto remarketing industry, AutoIMS can now be used to post units online directly. The AutoIMS Hub also provides visibility to existing online inventory posted by other methods, even prior to physical auction arrival.

Consignors can now access key details about inventory on OVE, communicate online floor pricing, and run consolidated reports - inclusive of online bid and sale activity - directly through AutoIMS. Auction users have the same added conveniences, and will be able to use existing, electronic condition report data to seamlessly post inventory online.

"AutoIMS has made it easier for auctions and sellers to communicate about physical sales throughout North America, for over a decade," said AutoIMS Director of Customer Service, Joe Miller. "Now our advanced analysis tools and communications infrastructure can be used to manage the growing number of online sales."

Manheim's Vice President of National Client Sales Support, Rick Pomeroy added, "Manheim is enthusiastic about the value that this partnership will bring to our national account base. AutoIMS is a vital piece of the inventory puzzle, and since more commercial sellers are adopting an 'anytime, anywhere' approach to selling, this integration will continue to be an important priority for our team."

AutoIMS expects OVE to be the first of several partners for the Hub. As the name implies, the Hub ultimately aims to provide real-time, simultaneous inventory information across multiple in-lane and online channels. Chief Architect Robert Williams added, "As a neutral partner with existing connections to auctions and sellers, AutoIMS is in the perfect position to inform all parties when a vehicle sells, giving inventory maximum exposure while reducing the risk of double-selling."

AutoIMS Director of Business Development, Keely Smith added, "This connection is an important first step. We fully expect our client base to push other major, online platforms in the industry to integrate with AutoIMS, and we are very much open to those possibilities."

The Hub launch is well-timed as remarketing volumes begin to rebound and commercial consignors of all types continue to increase their use of online selling venues. Through its support of the Hub, the auction industry is showing that it understands the growing importance of the online channel, and is dedicated to providing a seamless remarketing inventory management platform to institutional sellers.

For more information about the Hub, contact AutoIMS Customer Service at (888) 683-2272 or clientsupport@autoims.com . Auto Auction Services Corp. (AutoIMS) is the number one supplier of online Inventory Management Systems to Commercial Accounts and Auctions in North America.

Client Feedback Leads to Updated Pricing Tools

Floor pricing continues to present challenges to the commercial wholesale consignor. In a recent survey of AutoIMS users, 44% of users said their biggest challenge in the process is to accurately appraise a vehicle. Another 21% struggle to balance high sale rates with high returns, and 19% wrestle with the accuracy of guide book values.

LivePricing, a suite of tools included in a consignor's membership to AutoIMS, was designed with flexibility in mind to address the needs of a variety of commercial clients. To accommodate the hundreds of organizations who each use LivePricing in their own unique way to calculate and transmit floor prices, the tool must accommodate a wide range of pricing models and processes.

Given the survey findings, and ongoing client feedback, AutoIMS recently rolled out several significant enhancements to LivePricing:

• Daily BlackBook® Values: Data just got better for clients that take advantage of the AutoIMS/BlackBook® integration whereby BlackBook® values are automatically retrieved and adjusted using auction-entered condition, equipment, and grade information. BlackBook® values are now refreshed daily instead of weekly, giving clients the most up-to-date, relevant pricing data available from BlackBook®.
• NADA Retail, Trade-In, and Loan Values: By request, AutoIMS integrated with NADA to offer their Retail, Trade-In, and Loan values. Clients who rely on NADA and AutoIMS can now experience added convenience in the pricing process.
• ACE: In late 2011, we introduced the AutoIMS Commercial Estimate. A new reference tool based on commercial consignment sales data, and which is available alongside another guide book subscription (BlackBook®, MMR, or NADA) through AutoIMS.

The improvements to LivePricing will not stop there. Look for greater usability and more intuitive workflows in the coming months.

Want to learn more about LivePricing? Have feedback or questions? Contact us for more information: (888) 683-2272 or clientsupport@autoims.com .

Proven Technology Makes Remarketing Easier

Printing. Faxing. Scanning. Data entry. Double data entry. Logistics and administrative tasks continue to plague the industry even while technology is advancing to reduce costs.

Today's competitive marketplace is a virtual one, as buyers and sellers are learning to maximize the market in a variety of physical auction lanes, online internet auctions, and hybrid approaches. Communicating preferences with a single auction is difficult enough, now sellers need to manage inventory in multiple venues simultaneously. Fortunately, a proven technology platform exists that connects consignors and auctions, enabling them to manage the entire remarketing process more efficiently.

Having connected the data and processes of over 2,000 consignor organizations to nearly 500 of the nation's leading auto auctions, AutoIMS continues to advance its well-tested remarketing software, offering:

• Intelligent Vehicle Identification and Assignment: It's time for the savvy remarketer to take the guesswork out of decisions about where and when to sell vehicles. Automated closest auction mapping, advanced vehicle valuation, simplified summary reporting, and robust connections to online and physical auction venues make the process easier.
• Transportation and Documentation: More superfluous time is added to the remarketing cycle due to transportation mix-ups and missing vehicle documentation than any other reason. Consignors should monitor vehicles through multiple statuses before a vehicle ever reaches the auction, and take advantage of full tracking capabilities for titles, POAs and other key documents.
• Reconditioning and Floor Pricing: The days of paper CRs can and should be over. Digital pictures, VIN decoding, and digital CR data gives consignors faster, more accurate information, and an easier way to approve or decline repairs, influencing overall valuation. Having this information at one's fingertips, along with updated guide book data from industry-leading sources takes the mystery out of accurate appraisals.
• Reporting and Reconciling: Tie it all together with built-in, advanced management reporting, auditing, and performance benchmarking.

Efficient, effective remarketing inventory management is here today, and available immediately at a small fraction of the cost to develop similar functionality in-house. Adopting AutoIMS just makes good business sense.

AutoIMS Reflects on New Developments in 2011

The taxes may not be done yet, but 2011 is officially in the rear view mirror. For AutoIMS, the year opened doors to many new technology projects that will translate to significant value for our clients and the entire automotive remarketing sector going forward.

Here are a few highlights worth recapping:

• AutoIMS HUB: New functionality and data connections which allow consignor and auction users to create, view and manage online auction listings as part of their physical auction inventory in AutoIMS.
• Marshaling: New functionality allowing for the management of inventory at auction without the immediate intention of selling in the physical lane.
• AutoIMS Help: All users can now click the "Help" link on the top left of your screen to access illustrated AutoIMS tutorials and instructions.
• The new AutoIMS.com and Partnership: Along with a complete redesign of the AutoIMS.com to a more user friendly and content-rich public site, we also launched the Partnership page - a new resource to help remarketers connect with the vendors they need.
• LivePricing Updates: Consignor users can now access NADA values and a new reference point called AutoIMS Commercial Estimate (ACE), directly in AutoIMS.
• Repossession Updates: Key updates to repo functionality include a "Find Closest Agent" feature, and a multi-faceted Repo Agent Scorecard reporting tool.
• LiveCRwriter 5.1: Enhancements to the AutoIMS Condition Report writing tool, available to all member auctions, included the ability to upload multiple photos and create multiple CR versions for each vehicle.

2012 promises to be an equally productive as AutoIMS builds on these projects and starts new ones. As always, input and business requirements from the remarketing industry drive our development direction, so contact us to be sure your voice is heard. Email: clientsupport@autoims.com or call: 888-683-2272.

Best wishes for a successful 2012 from all of us at AutoIMS!

Use AutoIMS on the Go, with the Latest Smartphones and Tablets

ATLANTA, GA (September 19, 2011) - "Whether you need to access AutoIMS or write a condition report with a smartphone we're running with the current technologies to give clients what they need," says Don Meadows president of AutoIMS.

As more users connect to AutoIMS from "on the road" it's essential to develop and test the accessibility and security levels of all the new gadgets that clients have in their briefcases or shirt pockets,

AutoIMS can be accessed with the latest versions of Android which has a number of spreadsheet downloads for running reports. That said, new versions are around the corner that continue to add functionality to the AutoIMS secure database.

Versioning is one of the toughest issues as we test various applications from Apple iPhones, iPads and devices with Google's Android applications. Apple uses use proprietary applications whereas Google claims open source. However, as later versions are released, older software will no longer be supported. With these first versions of hardware obsolete, companies will be pressured to upgrade devices.

Click here for the PDF newsletter.

Press Releases

AutoIMS Introduces New Sales Scorecard

Auto Auction Services Corp. (AutoIMS) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Sales Scorecard. The new module, now available at no additional charge to AutoIMS consignor and auction clients, was developed in partnership with the International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA).

The announcement is a big step forward in a long-running project by IARA members to identify a common framework for remarketers to identify and use key metrics about their performance.

AutoIMS VP of Client Experience, Joe Miller said, “This is a fantastic example of the power of the IARA and its Voice of the Consignor mantra. The thoughtful process and input collected along the way gave us ultimate confidence that building this new module would create a rich value-add for our member auctions and consignors alike.”

The Sales Scorecard uses AutoIMS LiveReports technology to produce a new view of auction performance metrics. Conversion rates, average sale price achievement versus floor price and guide book pricing, average mileage and model year of the sold vehicles, and cycle time benchmarks like days to sell and days to CR are all included.

“AutoIMS users can now rate an individual auction’s performance or rank multiple auctions over any period of time,” said AutoIMS Chief Technical Officer, Robert Williams. “Familiar report filters like mileage, classification, frame damage, and several others allow the user to examine very specific segments of their portfolio as well.”

Having completed an insightful beta test and initial round of improvements with several clients, AutoIMS plans to enable the Scorecard for all administrator users on Monday, August 26th

AutoIMS connects more than 1,200 commercial vehicle consignors, 650 automobile auctions, and dozens of 3rd party providers, to drive efficiency and increased returns across the entire wholesale remarketing value chain.

As the trusted technology service provider to the industry, AutoIMS delivers applications and solutions that streamline data connections and wholesale remarketing inventory management. Learn more at www.autoimssolutions.com or www.autoims.com.

Joe Miller, Vice President of Client Experience

678.597.3928 or jmiller@autoims.com

AASC Board Names Krishnamoorthy CEO

ATLANTA, GA - In their most recent meeting, the Auto Auction Services Corp. (AutoIMS) board of directors officially named AASC veteran Venkat Krishnamoorthy as CEO of the technology services provider. The appointment becomes official after the announcement that Mike Broe would retire at the end of 2018.

Venkat came to AutoIMS from the Delta Airlines technology team in 2002 and has held leadership positions of progressive responsibility ever since, most recently as the Chief Operating Officer. He is active in the industry, co-chairing an IARA committee, and has been an active participant in AASC board discussions for many years.

"I'm delighted that the board has promoted Venkat. He embodies the values that have served AutoIMS so well over the years, valuing employees and clients so strongly," said Broe. "The industry can share my confidence that AutoIMS is in great hands."

Long time board member Warren Byrd of KAR Auction Services, said of the appointment, "The KAR team congratulates Venkat on this well-deserved promotion. His deep knowledge about the company, the technology, and our industry positions Venkat perfectly to lead the next chapter of AASC."

Board member Steve Krupa of IAASC added, "As a member of the AASC board for the past 6 years, I have been impressed over and over by the leadership team at AutoIMS. Venkat has earned the trust of the entire AASC team and the board, and we know the company will thrive with his leadership."

Krishnamoorthy added, "It is an immense honor and privilege to be asked to lead AASC. I have had the good fortune to work closely with and learn from two great leaders - Don Meadows and Mike Broe. We have an awesome team and great talent at AASC, and we are in the service of a niche industry. One of my immediate goals is to work in partnership with the AASC Board and AASC's leadership team to make AASC the employer of choice, provider of choice and investment of choice for the remarketing industry. Mike Broe is leaving AASC in a strong position, and I look forward to leading our company and the remarketing industry into its next chapter!"

AutoIMS connects more than 1,200 commercial vehicle consignors, 650 automobile auctions, and dozens of 3rd party providers, to drive efficiency and increased returns across the entire wholesale remarketing value chain.

As the trusted technology service provider to the industry, AutoIMS delivers applications and solutions that streamline data connections and wholesale remarketing inventory management. Learn more at www.autoimssolutions.com or www.autoims.com.

Joe Miller, Vice President of Client Experience

678.597.3928 or jmiller@autoims.com

AutoIMS Marks 20th Anniversary

20-Week Celebration Planned

ATLANTA, GA - AutoIMS, the wholesale automobile industry's leading technology service provider for remarketing inventory management and connections, has unveiled a plan to recognize its 20 years of partnership and innovation. "We are honored to have earned high levels of trusted partnership with so many of the industry's leading companies and executives. The unique data connections we provide continue to bring the remarketing industry together in new ways," said Mike Broe, President and CEO.

The AutoIMS team will mark their 20th Anniversary by:

• Launching a twenty-week campaign on March 6, at the CAR conference in Las Vegas
• Hosting celebratory receptions at industry events
• Sharing new collateral and historical milestones
• Adopting a modified logo during the campaign
• Integrating 20th celebration-related items on autoims.com and in advertising

"This celebration is largely about partnership. Many in our industry played a role in making AutoIMS work, and all who contributed should be proud of how these partnerships have evolved," said AutoIMS VP of Client Experience Joe Miller. "The industry championed AutoIMS over the years; and in return, every employee at AutoIMS is committed to supporting it through great service and innovation."

"Our team is energized by the relationships and experiences of the past two decades. As it was 20 years ago, it's difficult to imagine what the next 20 years will bring, but we are eager to continue making AutoIMS the employer of choice, provider of choice, and investment of choice for our industry and beyond," said Chief Operating Officer and 16-year company veteran Venkat Krishnamoorthy.

AutoIMS connects more than 1,200 commercial vehicle consignors, 650 automobile auctions, and dozens of 3rd party providers, to drive efficiency and increased returns across the entire wholesale remarketing value chain.

As the trusted technology service provider to the industry, AutoIMS delivers applications and solutions that streamline data connections and wholesale remarketing inventory management. Learn more at www.autoimssolutions.com or www.autoims.com.

Joe Miller, Vice President of Client Experience

678.597.3928 or jmiller@autoims.com

AutoIMS Discusses 2018 Strategy

2017 Accomplishments Highlighted

ATLANTA, GA - The AutoIMS leadership team announced highlights of their 2018 plan earlier today. Key components of the strategy include:

• Sharing client and auction best practices and expanded educational offerings for AutoIMS clients
• Continuing to evolve and expand the Technology 2020 Plan, including mobile strategy
• Recognizing and celebrating the company's 20th anniversary
• Launching a new Client Experience initiative

The team also reflected on accomplishments from the previous year. 2017 highlights include:

• Achieved 99.97% platform uptime, released password security enhancements, upgraded legacy systems and system infrastructure with no service disruptions
• On-boarded 28 auctions, 18 consignors and a handful of new 3rd party providers
• Trained hundreds of consignor and auction professionals
• Sponsored and presented at Used Car Week, hosted committee meetings at IARA's Summer Roundtable, and sponsored the CAR Conference
• Sponsored and presented at multiple Auction Academy events, and other client events
• Continued progress and modernization through Technology 2020 Plan
• Launched Artists & Scientists ad campaign, a new product catalog and published a white paper on Auction Charges
• Customer Service team evolved to Client Support and handled 7,400 calls with an average hold time of nine seconds and 96% completion rate. The team is currently adopting the Salesforce.com CRM platform
• Remodeled Atlanta-based headquarters and rallied employees to contribute more than 152 pounds of food and $3,000 to the North Fulton Community Charities

AutoIMS connects more than 1,200 commercial vehicle consignors, 650 automobile auctions, and dozens of 3rd party providers, to drive efficiency and increased returns across the entire wholesale remarketing value chain.

As the trusted technology service provider to the industry, AutoIMS delivers applications and solutions that streamline data connections and wholesale remarketing inventory management. Learn more at www.autoimssolutions.com or www.autoims.com.

Joe Miller, Vice President of Client Experience

678.597.3928 or jmiller@autoims.com

AutoIMS Names COO

ATLANTA, GA; AutoIMS (Auto Auction Services Corp.) announced today the promotion of Venkat Krishnamoorthy to Chief Operating Officer. Now in his 16th year of service to AutoIMS and the remarketing industry, Venkat is recognized as a critical contributor to the success AutoIMS has enjoyed over the past 20 years.

Venkat most recently served as Chief Information Officer, managing development, support and updates to AutoIMS. In his new role, Venkat will continue as a valued member of the strategy team, oversee all facets of the technology team, and add contract management and compliance to his responsibilities. Venkat joined AASC in 2002 as Java Team Lead after 5 years at Delta Airlines in their revenue optimization group.

"Venkat understands our industry very well from the perspectives of both our auction owners/members, and our commercial consignors," says AutoIMS CEO Mike Broe, "I hope you'll join me in congratulating Venkat on his well-deserved promotion as we look forward to many more years of his leadership in the remarketing industry."

"AutoIMS continues to grow in its endeavor to provide unparalleled technology and related services to our industry," said Venkat, "I'm more dedicated than ever in making sure AutoIMS is an employer of choice, a provider of choice, and an investment of choice."

Venkat serves as Co-Chair of the IARA Technology committee and is active in various Atlanta CIO groups and committees. An alumnus of reigning NCAA football champion University of Alabama, Venkat enjoys traveling with his wife and two teenage children when not working.

AutoIMS (Auto Auction Services Corp.) is the trusted technology service provider for auto auctions and the wholesale remarketing industry. AutoIMS delivers applications and solutions enabling streamlined data connections and wholesale remarketing inventory processes. Connecting over 1,200 commercial consignors, 650+ auto auctions, and numerous 3rd party providers, AutoIMS drives efficiencies and greater returns across its entire network. Learn more at: www.autoims.com or www.autoimssolutions.com.

NAAA and AutoIMS Make IsItFrame? Available On Demand

ATLANTA, GA IsItFrame?, the service offered by the National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) through AutoIMS is now available as an on-demand, system-integrated web service. With time savings in mind, AutoIMS created this new web service offering to allow auction management systems and internet-connected CR-writing applications to automatically retrieve an answer from the IsItFrame database.

Commenting on the enhancement to the service, which continues to be offered for free to NAAA member auctions, AutoIMS CIO, Venkat Krishnamoorthy said, "This new web service will not only offer process automation to make inspectors' lives easier, but also further one of our missions: to empower the remarketing industry with better data."

Frank Hackett, NAAA's CEO added, "The Association continues its commitment to adding value to the industry through technology and data-driven tools designed to increase transparency and ultimately protect buyers, sellers, and auctions through all phases of the vehicle lifecycle."

These enhancements to the service now make it possible for auctions to automatically retrieve frame-type and quarter panel information for large batches of vehicles all at once, rather than the existing, manual, one-off process. AutoIMS Member auctions can contact Customer Service to obtain information on connecting to the new web service. Other interested parties may contact Frank Hackett at NAAA to learn more.

The National Auto Auction Association (NAAA) acquired Kink-or-Bend in August of 2014, and partnered with AutoIMS to re-brand and maintain the tool now known as IsItFrame?. The core technology offering remains the same, helping auction members determine if the costly disclosure of a quarter panel replacement is required on any particular vehicle. Members can access the database manually at naaa.com, autoims.com, or IsItFrame.com.

AutoIMS: clientsupport@autoims.com or 888-683-2272

NAAA: naaa@naaa.com

Vehicle Build Data Now Widely Available to Remarketing Industry

AutoIMS, Chrome Data Partner to Offer Vehicle Data Repository for IARA

ATLANTA, GA - AutoIMS today announced a new data partnership with Chrome Data to offer sellers more accurate, standardized vehicle content data directly through the AutoIMS platform. The new connection aims to meet the evolving needs of the remarketing industry, and the call for a centralized vehicle data repository by the International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA) Standards Committee.

More specifically, the solution addresses remarketer concerns related to increasing vehicle volumes in physical and online auction venues and the ongoing challenge to fully account for the equipment, options, and other information needed to maximize the value of a vehicle through better descriptions and pricing.

The data connection itself will allow participating AutoIMS consignors to access accurate, VIN-level, as-built vehicle descriptions, recall notices, MSRP, invoice prices, and warranty information as compiled from numerous OEMs by Chrome Data. The data is available to AutoIMS consignor clients, and is discounted for IARA members.

"The IARA is very excited to see this initiative take flight. This data will give our remarketers increased confidence throughout the remarketing process, resulting in lower days to sell and maximized residual value retention," said Tim Meta, head of remarketing for Fifth Third Bank and IARA Standards Committee Chair.

Craig Jennings, Chrome Data's Managing Partner said, "It became very clear that AutoIMS was the most efficient channel to enable broad access to our accurate, as-built vehicle descriptions for remarketers. We look forward to expanding the partnership and adding even more value to the industry."

AutoIMS CEO Mike Broe added, "We are very excited to partner with Chrome Data to provide this critical information to our consignors; we also look forward to working with Craig and his team on other valuable product offerings for the remarketing industry."

Interested parties can contact AutoIMS Solutions for more information. Email solutions@autoims.com or call 888-683-2272.

AutoIMS (Auto Auction Services Corporation) brings the remarketing industry together through an industry-leading set of online applications to manage auto portfolios, connecting wholesale vehicle consignors with auctions and other related parties. Additionally, AutoIMS provides robust data and consulting services to help the auto industry benchmark and streamline processes and technology.

With over 25 years of automotive data and software experience, Chrome Data offers an unparalleled spectrum of high-value vehicle content and applications. Our solutions help the complete automotive sales chain develop, market and sell vehicles more effectively and profitably. More information at www.chromedata.com or contact Craig Jennings craig.jennings@autodata.net.

It is the mission of the International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA) to assist, educate, and share knowledge with one another and our industry partners, so that each member may be empowered to achieve the fullest efficiency and most continued improvement attainable in the commerce of selling vehicles through the marketplace. Visit www.iaraonline.org for more information.

AutoIMS Puts New Arrows in Consignor Quiver

Sale Calendar and Sale Snapshot Offer New Perspective and Data Analysis to Consignors

Atlanta, GA, December 7, 2015 - AutoIMS (Auto Auction Services Corp.) today announced a new Sale Calendar module designed to give consignor users of AutoIMS.com an at-a-glance view of upcoming and recent auction sales. In addition, through the Sale Calendar, AutoIMS users can now take advantage of "Sale Snapshot" technology, which shows the run vs. sold percentage for each recent auction sale.

This system enhancement, available to all AutoIMS member consignors at no charge, was one of the top five ideas to emerge from Project Client Insight - an AutoIMS consignor advisory board. In this deployment of the Sale Calendar, users can see recent and upcoming sales in a familiar calendar format, organized intuitively by auction.

The Sale Calendar shows the number of vehicles sold and sale percentage for previous auction days, and number of vehicles set for upcoming sale days, including the percentage of vehicles with a floor price. A simple, color-coded interface helps draw the eyes of managers, field reps, coordinators, and others to areas that need attention. The data in the Sale Calendar is also hyperlinked, so users can drill in to customizable reports of the details for each calendar entry.

"The feedback on this new module is overwhelmingly positive so far," said Joe Miller, Director of Customer Service for AutoIMS. He continued, "We are committed to increasing the value proposition of our core inventory management offering, listening to what the industry needs, and delivering against those innovative ideas."

AASC CEO Mike Broe offered, "We are proud to offer this feature at the request of our consignors. The Sale Calendar is one of the items the industry told us would add value, and we are grateful for the ongoing support and trust our clients put in to AutoIMS by asking us to deliver for them. We don't take that for granted, and we're always delighted to offer new functionality as a way to express our gratitude."

The Sale Calendar is a privilege-protected feature that consignor clients of AutoIMS can gain access to by calling AutoIMS Customer Service at 888-683-2272 or emailing clientsupport@autoims.com .

About Auto Auction Services Corporation (www.autoims.com and www.autoimssolutions.com)

Auto Auction Services Corporation (AASC) delivers an industry-leading set of online applications (www.autoims.com, www.recoveryims.com, www.mylocalauction.com) and related services to manage auto portfolios, connecting wholesale auto consignors with auctions. Additionally, AutoIMS provides robust technology, analytical and consulting services to help the auto industry benchmark and streamline business processes and technology.

AASC Hosts Inaugural Project Client Insight Meeting

Key Consignors Gather to Help Design the Future of Remarketing

CHICAGO, IL – Auto Auction Services Corp. (AASC), parent company of AutoIMS, recently hosted a half-day workshop to gather insight from 13 client organizations representing a cross-section of the remarketing industry’s commercial consignor landscape. Dubbed “Project Client Insight,” the workshop was hosted on August 18th in Chicago just prior to the International Automotive Remarketing Association’s annual summer roundtable.

Using an interactive approach to the workshop, representatives from AASC led participants through several exercises to define the business and technology opportunities and challenges they are facing, and to brainstorm ideas that will help them be successful in the future. The meeting was preceded by a survey that received a 100% response from the invitees.

AASC CEO Mike Broe said, “This meeting was not about AutoIMS. Our goal was to create a forum where the remarketing community could connect, voice their challenges and opportunities, and work together to design solutions for the next generation of the industry.”

While existing issues like Multi-Platform Selling and increased consistency in vehicle grading and condition reporting were raised frequently, metrics and analytics emerged as a key topic of opportunity, generating numerous ideas for the group. All participants agreed that making better use of available data to measure performance and hold business partners and employees accountable were vital to their continued success.

The results of Project Client Insight include 18 long-term ideas for new technology and services for AASC. With the help of participants’ votes, AASC leaders prioritized these ideas into 5 short-term projects, including: 1) A “Set for Sale Calendar” tool; 2) New sales results dashboard metrics; 3) Numerous additional pre-calculated “smart fields” in AutoIMS; 4) An effort to drive standardization in auction expense reporting; 5) The development of more robust mobile tools for the industry.

AASC Customer Service Director Joe Miller added, “As a result of the PCI meeting, we are confident that these projects will have a meaningful, positive, and lasting impact on the industry and our clients’ bottom lines.”

“Through their participation, our clients demonstrated incredible teamwork, openness and energy toward designing the future of remarketing. We are immensely grateful for their time and commitment to us – not only during the meeting itself, but also for the follow up work they will do to see these projects through,” added Broe.

About Auto Auction Services Corporation (www.autoims.com/)
Auto Auction Services Corporation (AASC) delivers an industry-leading set of online applications (www.autoims.com, www.recoveryims.com, www.mylocalauction.com) to manage auto portfolios, connecting wholesale auto consignors with auctions. Additionally, AutoIMS provides robust data, analytical and consulting services to help the auto industry benchmark and streamline processes and technology.

AASC ANNOUNCES STANDARDIZED VEHICLE CONDITION GRADING TECHNOLOGY

AutoGrade Expected to Help Auctions Strengthen Vehicle Condition Processes, Develop Uniformity

ATLANTA – Through joint collaboration across the wholesale automotive industry, Auto Auction Services Corporation (AASC) has introduced a new industry standard for vehicle condition data reporting available to all members. This new standard will drive consistency across the entire automotive wholesale marketplace.

Through an arrangement with the National Auto Auction Association (NAAA), AASC will soon distribute Manheim’s AutoGrade service to all member auctions at no additional cost. ADESA, Bel Air Auto Auction, Greensboro Auto Auction and Tallahassee Auto Auction will be first to use the service once the integration project is complete.

“We are very pleased to share this new technology with the industry, which was developed through our partnership with Manheim,” said Mike Broe, chief executive officer and president of AASC. “AutoGrade will help auctions and sellers in North America maintain a consistent vehicle grading system and allow buyers to see condition report consistency across all channels.”

The AutoGrade service is becoming available at a time when wholesale volumes are increasing, buyers are embracing internet platforms, and sellers are asking for consistency and transparency in their vehicle valuation processes across all venues and geographies. Whether or not auctions have a scoring methodology of their own, they will now have the option to offer an AutoGrade on every vehicle in their inventory.

Positioning AASC as the distribution source for AutoGrade will allow all auctions to easily and confidentially adopt the AutoGrade methodology, ultimately improving condition report quality and consistency across the industry. An analysis of vehicle sales data shows that vehicles listed online with an AutoGrade score are three times more likely to sell than vehicles without.

Auction Executives Offer Their Opinion

“By using the AutoGrade service, our customers know that they will get consistent pricing for their vehicles,” said Jerry Barker, general manager of Greensboro Auto Auction. “The AutoGrade service will also provide greater consistency for our online buyers.”

“The AutoGrade score is acknowledged as the gold standard in the industry – buyers can consistently compare like-for-like vehicles and have the highest confidence in their purchase decision,” said Charles Nichols, BSC America’s president.

“AutoGrade utilizes vehicle information to calculate a consistent objective grade the same way, every time, across auction locations and online platforms,” said Paul Lips, executive vice president of operations and finance for ADESA. “This increases confidence for buyers and allows them to more effectively comparison shop vehicles. It also makes it easier for sellers to accurately price vehicles. Implementing AutoGrade as the standard for the industry should considerably improve the overall customer experience.”

“We feel AutoGrade will truly benefit the entire industry, and it’s our vision that one day all vehicles sold in the wholesale industry will be evaluated using AutoGrade,” said Joe George, senior vice president and chief strategy officer for Manheim and AutoTrader Group. “Dealers have told us that they have been frustrated with the inconsistency of vehicle condition data, so we have taken the lead by offering this established and proven grading system to the industry.”

How it Works
AutoGrade will allow auctions an opportunity to input vehicle damages to generate vehicle scores while preserving confidentiality of certain vehicle data. Here is how the process will work:

• Auctions collect and submit vehicle damage information to AASC via AutoIMS in much the same way they do today
• AASC will remove all vehicle data (including the VIN, year, make and model) along with the auction name, and transmit the data to Manheim
• Manheim then returns an AutoGrade score back to the auction via AASC

To use AutoGrade, each auction must maintain a membership in AASC, who maintains the remarketing industry standard inventory management system - AutoIMS. AASC continues in its 16th year serving the industry objectively and independently as a jointly-owned consortium of the auction industry. To register for the service, please contact Jay Cadigan at Manheim (jay.cadigan@manheim.com) or Mike Broe at AASC (mike.broe@autoims.com).

About Auto Auction Services Corporation (www.autoims.com/)
Auto Auction Services Corporation (AASC) delivers an industry-leading set of online applications (www.autoims.com, www.recoveryims.com, www.mylocalauction.com) to manage auto portfolios, connecting wholesale auto consignors with auctions. Additionally, AutoIMS provides robust data, analytical and consulting services to help the auto industry benchmark and streamline processes and technology.

AASC to Enable Online Multi-Listing Sales

Auto Auction Services Corporation's technology addresses growing industry demand

ATLANTA, GA - Responding to a major business issue in the vehicle remarketing industry, Auto Auction Services Corp. (AASC) announced its proposal to meet the growing demand of consignors and auctions with its online Multi-Listing Platform. Although widely used in the real estate and travel industries for years, such an Internet sales tool is currently unavailable in automotive wholesale remarketing.

AASC Chief Executive Officer Mike Broe said that given the company's experience in developing web-based solutions that enhance the vehicle remarketing process, addressing the need for an online platform that enables simultaneous listings on multiple online auctions is the natural next step.

"Since our founding in 1997, we've been dedicated to helping the remarketing industry succeed through the application of new technologies and focused on delivering results that improve business practices for the benefit of all," he noted. "Our Multi-Listing Platform will offer the advantages of consolidating data for better information sharing, simplifying the listing and search processes for greater efficiency, and reaching the broadest market available to maximize resale prices."

Broe explained that AASC's proposal would employ hub technology to create a single, common interface allowing the simultaneous, cross-listing of vehicles on multiple, online platforms to facilitate sales activity. Any participating online platforms would be connected by this central portal, permitting them to send and receive digital photos, inspection reports, floor prices and a variety of other information.

A major feature of AASC's Multi-Listing Platform would be real-time, live bidding. "This allows for the instantaneous exchange of data as it is happening, so bidding received on one platform is communicated as it comes in to the hub, which immediately transmits that information to update all the other platforms where that vehicle is listed," Broe said.

AASC already supplies similar, one-stop-shop software tools to the industry, including the widely-adopted AutoIMS.com. As an industry standard partner, this web-based inventory management system provides a single point of entry through a central platform for auctions, consignors of all types, repo agents, and others who work in remarketing to exchange vehicle data efficiently, cost-effectively and securely.

"We bring advanced technology to the remarketing process, letting systems do what they do best - freeing people to focus on higher value business activities," Broe said. "Online vehicle portfolio management and sales are here and many in the industry feel it's time to move forward to the next level. We recognize this is where remarketing is headed and, based on the underlying trust we've built throughout the industry, we're prepared to lead it into the future."

Indeed, online multi-selling platforms were the subject of two seminars earlier this year: the 2013 International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA) Spring Roundtable and the 2013 Conference of Automotive Remarketing (CAR). Anticipating the coming change in how vehicles are remarketed, the IARA Standards Committee has issued a white paper on the topic, suggesting that to be successful, industry standards for online multi-selling platforms must be developed and adopted.

Frank Hackett, chief executive officer of the National Auto Auction Association, which co-sponsors CAR, agrees. "NAAA has an ongoing initiative to standardize our industry, which includes creating uniform Electronic Condition Reports, a universal Arbitration Policy and a National Certification program," he said. "So working together to set general principles and practices for online multi-selling platforms would just be one more way to ensure trust, enhance service and enrich customer satisfaction."

Hackett added that NAAA supports the united efforts of the industry to develop a multiple online sales platform and encourages AASC to meet the challenge with its Multi-Listing Platform. "We see this technology as evolutionary - not revolutionary - and it represents progress that will be of great benefit to everyone."

New Survey Results: How Remarketing Industry Accurately Values Vehicles During Strong
Market Conditions

Majority of Commercial Consignors Strive to Balance Sale Rates and High Returns in the Lane

For Immediate Release (March 12th, 2012) Auto Auction Services Corp. (AutoIMS) today released the results of a survey they conducted about floor pricing, including aggregate findings from over 325 commercial vehicle consignor responses. Goals of the survey included assessing the preferences held and the challenges faced by the commercial consignor community as it relates to pricing vehicles for auction sale.

Survey responses came from all types and sizes of commercial remarketers, a true cross section of the AutoIMS client base and the industry. While prices continue to soar in the lane, 44% of the consignors surveyed still cited their biggest challenge is accurately appraising vehicles. The comments posted in the survey discussed the opportunities to obtain more thorough, accurate, and timely condition reports. Balancing high sale rates with maximum monetary returns was also a concern, ranking second at 21%, followed by finding accurate, relevant guide book data at 19%.

The companies whose primary focus was to achieve highest monetary return stated they were more likely to send a representative to the auctions to manage the active lane sales. Across all participants, 52% said they usually or always send a rep to auctions, and just 10% said they never attend auctions in person.

In terms of guide book data preferences, the survey showed that Manheim Market Report and Black Book® are used almost equally - about 2/3 of AutoIMS respondents use both guides. 49% also use NADA Used Car Guide, and 22% use various guide book values provided by auctions. West coast respondents also mentioned Kelley Blue Book, and several northeastern consignors cited Galves. A number of companies factor proprietary, internal data analysis into their valuations as well.

Over 1/3 of consignors use the AutoIMS guide book integration to access guide book values alongside condition report and bid history information, and 49% of survey respondents access guide book data directly on the website of the guide book company in question. Only 3% of consignors chose mobile app as their preferred, guide book access method.

The survey further revealed insight about the optimum number of times a vehicle should be run through an auction lane, whether consignors keep separate, private floor prices, how damages are factored in, and what metrics consignors use to gauge pricing effectiveness. A comprehensive presentation of the survey results is available from AutoIMS Customer Service by emailing clientsupport@autoims.com or calling (888) 683-2272.

AutoIMS Announces Pilot Phase of Internet Selling Hub

New tool aims to provide real-time inventory information across multiple online and in lane channels

September 7, 2010 (Atlanta, GA) Auto Auction Services Corporation (AutoIMS) is expanding its vehicle assignment and management toolset to allow for maximum inventory exposure and coordinated selling across internet and physical auction platforms through the creation of the AutoIMS Hub. Striving to provide real-time data connections between consignors, auctions, and auction internet platforms, the AutoIMS Hub will allow posting of inventory in front of every dealer in North America while minimizing the risk of duplicate sales.

"We are excited about the opportunity to participate in the pilot phase of the AutoIMS Hub," said Paul Seger, VP, Asset Remarketing for GE Capital Fleet Services. "As online sales continue to evolve, this one-platform, online solution provides GE and other sellers with the tools needed to efficiently remarket vehicles while allowing buyers to source their inventory needs."

The creation of the Hub comes at a time when more vehicles are being sold online through an increasing number of channels. "Sellers need help assigning vehicles to multiple venues, and managing inventory effectively in one place, using consolidated reporting, pricing, condition reports, and other information they need to run their business. This is a logical point of expansion for AutoIMS, and we are pleased to be making such rapid progress on this platform," said Don Meadows, President/CEO of AutoIMS.

AutoIMS Appoints a New Customer Service Director

ATLANTA, GA (January 29, 2010) - Joe Miller has been named Director of Customer Service at Auto Auction Services Corporation. Miller previously held management and marketing positions at Gartner, Inc., The Hackett Group, and BearingPoint, Inc.

"Client support has grown substantially over the past few years with more than 28,000 licensed users accessing AutoIMS to manage remarketing inventory. AASC looked for someone with a background in data analytics to incorporate client feedback with data mining to push system improvements. We've found that person in Joe Miller," says Don Meadows, President/CEO of AASC.

Miller started at AASC in September of 2009, leading a research project focused on the repossession industry which included survey and focus group execution. The results paid off quickly, leading to system changes that benefit all recovery application stakeholders.

"Our customer service team holds the keys to the castle and serves as the front line to our client base. They know the system and our clients inside and out, and can translate issues into actionable recommendations for the next generation of AutoIMS," says Miller.

Auto Auction Services Corp. Licenses AutoIMS to Copart

FAIRFIELD, CA - Copart, Inc., and Auto Auctions Services Corp. (AASC) have reached an agreement that enables Copart to use AASC's Automotive Inventory Management System (AutoIMS).

Under the agreement, Copart will be able to receive vehicle assignments through AutoIMS - an electronic vehicle inventory management system used by commercial vehicle sellers such as banks, finance companies, credit unions and fleet operators.

"This agreement means we can now combine Copart's great technology with AASC's great technology to provide vehicle sellers with a choice they didn't have before," said Willis J. Johnson, Copart's CEO and founder.

"AutoIMS connects data from more than 450 auctions to the databases of over 1,300 commercial clients," added AASC President and CEO Don Meadows. "Adding Copart to that mix enriches our product. Copart is a strong company with good technology and we are excited to have them share in our effort and help drive our product offerings forward in these changing times."

Copart sells more than 1 million vehicles per year using its patented, state-of-the-art VB2 technology which breaks down geographical barriers by allowing buyers to bid in a virtual-auction format online. Copart has more than 100,000 buyers in more than 100 countries that use VB2 to compete for vehicles.

AutoIMS is owned and operated by AASC, a leader in information technology for the automotive industry, processing more than 4 million sold vehicle records annually and handling more than 32 million transactions daily, and 5 million images monthly.

"It makes sense that Copart and AASC - both leaders in the auto remarketing industry who embrace technology and customer service - are now working together," Meadows said.

"We are proud to be doing business with AASC and are looking forward to a wonderful working relationship with them," added Johnson.

Copart and AutoIMS expect to be fully integrated in the second calendar quarter.

LiveRepos.com is Updated and Renamed to More User-Friendly RecoveryIMS.com

Atlanta, Georgia - Thursday, January 08, 2009

Auto Auction Services Corp. is pleased to announce the launch of RecoveryIMS.com (formerly LiveRepos.com), on February 1, 2009. The online application assigns, tracks, and manages repossessions. Recovery agents access repo assignments, communicate with clients and create condition reports and invoices online. Clients and agents benefit from streamlined communications and access to real-time data that flows uninterrupted between the recovery side and the auctions side. Also, reporting covers the full remarketing cycle. "The new name emphasizes the connection with AutoIMS and its prime functionality as an inventory management system," says Don Meadows, AASC president.

Improving user workflow is part of the development process at AASC. With input from customer service, the technical team restructured the Repossession interface to improve customer interaction. "RecoveryIMS.com was born out of this effort to reduce clicks and also to improve the range of services AASC can offer to enhance the repo workflow experience," says Venkat Krishnamoorthy, director of IT at AASC.

Login is easier; navigation more intuitive. New graphics reflect an updated sensibility which goes hand-in-hand with the user-friendly approach. A new one-stop navigation panel on the left provides quick access to repossession processes and communications. The "back button" has been eliminated. Along those lines, the "Search" criteria section is now on every page in the header area helping users process quickly throughout the entire site. Looking up a vehicle is at your fingertips; searches for vehicle groups are painless.

Phase II will contain add-on services that will provide enhanced transaction based services to the repo agents. E.g. A repo agent who now has multiple logins for different AASC consignors can request the logins to be combined into one single login.

Agents will notice a sharp difference between RecoveryIMS and LiveRepos. Clients benefit indirectly since the agents can now process information faster on RecoveryIMS.com. Anything that saves time on RecoveryIMS.com is a benefit for the repo client with faster turnaround.

Disclosure

Press releases contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or implied by our statements and comments. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time on our behalf.

AASC Press Release Information

Shannon Brickey
Advertising Manager
678-597-3920
Shannon Brickey

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