Element K to Provide E-learning Services to PepsiAmericas, Inc.; Alliance Provides for...

Business Editors

ROCHESTER, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 26, 2001

Element K, a leading provider of corporate e-learning solutions for business and technology skills, will provide e-learning programs to PepsiAmericas, Inc., the world's second-largest independent Pepsi-Cola bottler,

Through the agreement, Element K will deliver a fully integrated, blended training program to PepsiAmericas' employees, based on Element K's more than 800 information technology and business courses designed exclusively for the Web. In addition to custom-developing content for Pepsi's e-learning strategy, Element K will provide the company with other multi-modality training solutions, including CD-ROMs, training manuals and instructor-led online courses. The program, which the two companies will co-market to employees across the country, will offer the opportunity to learn new skills as they are needed, within an engaging and interactive environment.

"For businesses to succeed today, it's critical for employees to have the most up-to-date business and technology skills, which often presents a challenge for companies with many remote workers," said Terry Nulty, president of Element K. "That is why we're working with PepsiAmericas to provide customized online and offline training materials for employees, which will enhance skills and improve productivity, no matter where individuals are located."

"Our strategic alliance with Element K will enable us to facilitate training across the entire company," said Bill Spakowski, manager of technical training, PepsiAmericas, Inc. "With Element K's products and services, we will be able to provide our employees with 24-hour access to the training and skills they need to maximize their job performance and to succeed in a competitive business climate."

About PepsiAmericas, Inc.

Owned by the Whitman Corporation, PepsiAmericas is the world's second largest independent Pepsi-Cola bottler. PepsiAmericas produces and distributes Pepsi-Cola products and other beverages in 10 states in the central part of the United States, representing about 17 percent of Pepsi-Cola Company's domestic business. It also distributes Pepsi-Cola products in Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and the Republic of Slovakia.

About Element K

Founded in 1982, Element K is a leading provider of corporate e-learning solutions for business and technology skills serving Fortune 1000 companies, universities, government organizations and individuals. A pioneer in computer training, courseware development and e-learning, the company offers more than 800 information technology and business courses designed exclusively for the Web. Element K's integrated online training solutions feature instructor-led online courses, self-paced tutorials, a comprehensive reference library and dynamic interaction with experts and peers. The company also hosts an online learning environment integrated with a powerful learning management system. More information on the company can be found at www.elementk.com.