Randy Powell Appointed President of Armstrong Group

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (October 15, 2007) –When Peter Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer of Armstrong Group acquired a struggling government owned passenger rail service and turned it into an internationally renowned tourist attraction, he became known as an innovative leader in the Canadian tourism industry. His choice for a new president to take over the helm of Armstrong Group, owner and operator of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations and Gray Line West is yet another bold move. Randy Powell brings with him over 20 years of business leadership in the food and packaged goods industries, along with accolades that include a Business Hall of Fame recognition from Sheridan College in Ontario and being named one of Financial Post’s “Top 40 under 40.”

“During our search process, we met with a number of strong candidates and we are confident that we have found a dynamic leader,” says Peter Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer of Armstrong Group. “Randy has a passion for business, a fresh outlook and a successful track record for leading a team that fits with Armstrong Group’s culture and vision.”

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Mr. Powell has spent the last seven years as President of two divisions of Maple Leaf Foods. Prior to that, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of Second Cup Coffee Company and President of S.C. Johnson and Sons, Canada.

In his new role as President of Armstrong Group, Mr. Powell will take over the leadership of the organization, working with the executive team as they strive to become the premier provider of exceptional travel experiences in North America. Mr. Armstrong will continue to play an active role in the overall vision of the company, as Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, as well as continue to sit on the board of directors.

Armstrong Group (AG), a family-owned British Columbia based business, is the owner and operator of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations, the acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, the Whistler Mountaineer train, Gray Line West and other associated tourism and hospitality businesses. Since its inception in 1990, the company has evolved from a small entrepreneurial dream into one of Canada’s leading tourism providers. Tourism industry leaders have credited the organization for setting a new bar in guest service excellence, and Armstrong Group has recently achieved accolades for its leadership on sustainable tourism development (Tourism BC’s Foresight Award, 2007). In 2006, Rocky Mountaineer Vacations was awarded the prestigious World Travel Award as, “World’s Leading Travel Experience By Train” for the second consecutive year and in 2008 the company is preparing to welcome its one-millionth visitor onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train.

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