Speed, Sustainability of Modular Construction Offered As Solution to Troop Movement.

Washington, DC (March 13, 2008) - In testimony before the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Military Construction, industry leader Champion Homes and the industry association, the Modular Building Institute, urged Congressional leaders to give modular construction a level playing field in future military construction contracts.

Paul Abate, Vice President of Government Services & Business Development of Champion Homes stated "As the military attempts to update its fighting style and organizational structure, the impact on housing, operational facilities and infrastructure cannot be overemphasized.Modular construction can be an important part of the solution due to its ability to deliver a quality product in unprecedented timelines."

Tom Hardiman, Executive Director of the Modular Building Institute accompanied Mr. Abate at the hearing to address any industry-related questions.Hardiman testified "Virtually every other industry in our country has embraced automation except the construction industry." Afterwards he stated "We recognize that change takes time, and our military leaders are appropriately focused on fighting the wars abroad. However, the challenges associated with meeting the demands of BRAC, global rebasing, and Grow-The-Force end strength require additional strategic planning."

In closing, Mr. Abate stated "In short, modular construction is much different than it was 15 years ago and we continue to evolve. The products are better, fabrication technology has improved and we are faster than conventional construction. We seek a level playing field during future military construction opportunities and we stand ready to assist our troops, their families and the nation."

About Modular Building Institute.

Founded in 1983, the Modular Building Institute is the only, international, non-profit trade association serving non-residential modular construction. Our regular membership includes wholesale manufacturers, direct manufacturers, and dealers of commercial modular buildings, while our associate members are companies supplying building components, services, and financing to the industry. It is MBI's mission to grow the industry and its capabilities by encouraging innovation, quality, and professionalism through communication, education, and recognition. MBI also administers an educational foundation. For more information, visit modular.org.

About Champion Homes

Troy, Michigan-based Champion, a leader in factory-built housing and the nation's largest builder of modular homes, operates 35 manufacturing facilities in North America and the United Kingdom working with independent retailers, builders and developers.The Champion family of builders produces manufactured and modular homes, as well as modular buildings for government and commercial applications.