APS Signs Office-Supply Contract with Arizona-Based Firm
Keeping Business Local to Strengthen the Arizona Economy

April 27, 2009

PHOENIX – Support of locally-owned businesses strengthens the economy and provides an opportunity to enrich the communities of Arizona. APS is committed to both, according to Barbara Gomez, APS Vice President and Controller.

The company has signed a contract to obtain all of its office supplies from Arizona-based Wist Office Products, effective May 1. Wist is a third-generation local business with 100 percent full-time employees with benefits, making it an attractive business within the community.

“APS recently reevaluated the company’s providers of office supplies with a strong focus on ways to improve processes and reduce costs,” said Gomez. “Wist beat out the competition with its ability to meet our diverse needs. Being locally owned made Wist even more attractive as a business partner.”

Wist is a member of Local First Arizona, a non-profit organization working to strengthen Arizona communities. Studies have shown that dollars spent with Arizona businesses re-circulate in the state up to three times more than those spent with companies based elsewhere, which is a powerful tool in creating economic sustainability for the region.

“A strong local economy benefits the environment too, building communities that any Arizona resident would be proud to call home,” said Kimber Lanning, Director of Local First Arizona. “APS contracting locally is a huge benefit to our state, and it sets them apart as pioneers in sustainability. They are truly leading by example.”

Ian Wist, General Manager of Wist Office Products, added, “APS is essential to the growth and strength of Arizona, and we are excited to take part in their business.”

APS, Arizona’s largest and longest-serving electricity utility, serves about 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state’s 15 counties. In 2008, APS won its second Edison Award in recognition of innovative leadership and operational excellence in the electric industry. Given annually by the Edison Electric Institute, the Edison Award is considered the industry’s most prestigious honor. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW)

Jenna Henry,  (602) 250-4403