PRIMEDIA's EquipmentWatch Launches New Equipment Comparison Tool to E

    Business Editors

    NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 10, 2005--PRIMEDIA Inc., the country's leading targeted media company, today announced that EquipmentWatch, the leading producer of business-to-business information about heavy equipment for the construction industry, has launched a new research tool, SpecFinder(tm) to round out its suite of comprehensive online products offered on its leading Web site, EquipmentWatch.com.
    Drawing on EquipmentWatch's 45 years of experience and authority in the construction industry, the unique SpecFinder tool allows prospective equipment buyers to find and compare detailed specifications for more than 4,000 models of heavy equipment from hundreds of manufacturers. Powerful search capabilities let users research up to 45 key machine specifications - such as engine details, transmission and performance - and perform side-by-side comparisons of up to five models.
    "Contractors and equipment buyers were clamoring for a single source that could deliver detailed, comparative information to determine which models best meets their needs, stay competitive and enable smart purchasing decisions," said Hugh Byrne, group publisher of EquipmentWatch. "SpecFinder was built expressly with the buyer's challenges and needs in mind."
    SpecFinder seamlessly integrates with all of EquipmentWatch's products to serve prospective buyers with the most comprehensive package of information, metrics and analysis. Users can easily incorporate machine specifications when evaluating ownership and operating costs (Custom Cost Evaluator(r)), government reimbursement rates (Rental Rate Blue Book(r)), market valuation data (Green Guides(r)), verification of year of manufacture (Serial Number Guide(r)), and reviewing recent auction results data (Last Bid(r)). This level of exposure arms decision makers with a complete view of the machine, integrating specifications, current value, cost of use, and opportunity for sales of the construction equipment they own, use, insure or finance.
    Since the launch of its new online site in June 2004, EquipmentWatch has enjoyed double digit subscriber growth, further solidifying its position as the premier destination for businesses and organizations seeking equipment information. "The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive," noted Byrne. "They asked for a powerful, easy-to-use suite of tools to enhance their use of EquipmentWatch's industry standard data. What we've given them is an incredibly useful resource unlike any other, saving them both time and money."
    SpecFinder can be easily accessed by registering online at EquipmentWatch.com. Individuals seeking additional information may contact Hugh Byrne at 408-467-6722 or E-mail hbyrne@primediabusiness.com.

    About EquipmentWatch

    EquipmentWatch is the leading producer of business-to-business information about heavy equipment for the construction industry. Since 1958, EquipmentWatch provides customers with the critical information they need to make better decisions on buying, selling and utilizing equipment. EquipmentWatch's products are available by subscription online at EquipmentWatch.com, and in print and CD ROM versions. EquipmentWatch is a part of PRIMEDIA Business Information, which produces more than 70 publications, 130 Web sites, approximately 180 e-mail newsletters, more than 20 trade shows and more than 50 directories and books that serve professionals in more than 18 market sectors including Agribusiness, Communications, Electrical & Public Services, Entertainment, Marketing and Transportation. More information about the company can be found at: primediabusiness.com.

    About PRIMEDIA Inc.

    PRIMEDIA is the leading targeted media company in the United States. With 2004 revenue of $1.3 billion, its properties comprise more than 200 brands that connect buyers and sellers in more markets than any other media Company through print publications, Web sites, events, newsletters and video programs in four market segments:

CONTACT: Sloane & Company Amanda Cheslock, 212-446-1884 acheslock@sloanepr.com or EquipmentWatch Hugh Byrne, 408-467-6722 hbyrne@primediabusiness.com

KEYWORD: NEW YORK INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PUBLISHING MANUFACTURING REAL ESTATE BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT SOURCE: PRIMEDIA Inc.

Copyright Business Wire 2005