Bruce Jacobs hired as Publisher of Custom Retailer
Rick Albuck promoted to Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PHILADELPHIA, PA - The Consumer Technology Publishing Group (CTPG), a division of North American Publishing Company (NAPCO) which publishes Dealerscope, Custom Retailer, E-Gear and Picture Business magazines, announces the hiring of Bruce Jacobs as Publisher of Custom Retailer and the promotion of Rick Albuck to Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Jacobs, a fixture in the CE Industry for over 20 years, comes to Custom Retailer after serving as the associate publisher for EH Publishing's CE-Pro for the past year. Prior to that, Jacobs served as the associate publisher of Audio Video International, a post he held for 14 years. He also worked in the manufacturing sector as the Vice President of Mitek Corporation.

"We're thrilled to have Bruce join our team," says Consumer Technology Group President Eric Schwartz. "In addition to his years of experience in the industry, Bruce's hard work, combined with a keen understanding of the market, will bring continued growth and success to Custom Retailer.

In his new role as Publisher, Jacobs will be responsible for the direction, promotion and circulation of the magazine. He will also oversee the short and long term planning of Custom Retailer and will represent the Consumer Technology Publishing Group at industry events and meetings.

"I'm excited to be a part of NAPCO's Consumer Technology Publishing Group. I've been close to Eric and the group for many years and look forward to working with all of them." says Jacobs.

Rick Albuck, a member of the NAPCO staff for the past ten years, was promoted from Vice President/Associate Publisher to the newly created position of Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing of the entire Consumer Technology Publishing Group. Albuck's responsibilities will include developing marketing strategies for the magazines as well as custom publishing projects. In addition, he will also retain his sales territories on the West Coast and in the Midwest.

"Rick has a strong sense for the needs of the CE industry" Schwartz continues, "coupled with a demonstrated knack for being creative, I am confident that he will be successful in this new role."

Albuck's publishing career started in college, when he worked with PRG Communications on the Philly Rock Guide. In 1994, he joined NAPCO and represented Target Marketing, Global Trade and Transportation, American School and University and Dealerscope Magazines. In 1996, he was working exclusively on Dealerscope performing sales/marketing duties while helping to launch both E-Gear and Custom Retailer.

"I am excited about my new position and look forward to continuing to grow and build the Consumer Technology Publishing Group franchise." says Albuck.