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Fairport, NY (January 20, 2009) – Following a record-breaking year in 2008, First American Equipment Finance kicked off 2009 in Chicago with their annual sales conference. The company grew approximately 20% in 2008, despite a challenging economic environment. The meeting, which was held at The Drake Hotel in downtown Chicago, brought together the national sales teams to discuss the most effective ways to serve their valued clients.

The meeting began with a presentation of 2008 financial results and a review of the company’s mission statement and long-term vision. The company’s mission, "to grow businesses by passionately and professionally earning long-term relationships," was central to the discussion of serving customers.

Outside speakers at the event included James Roswell Quinn, who led a session on leadership, and Colleen Francis, who presented business development strategies in the current economic environment. Both presentations were very well received and motivating for the First American staff.

The meeting came on the heels of the most successful year in the company’s history. In 2008, First American was recognized by several national and local media outlets for the company's growth. They were recognized for the 5th straight year by the Monitor magazine as one of the Top 100 largest leasing companies in the United States in 2008. There are currently over 4,600 leasing firms in the U.S. and this ranking places First American in the top 2% of firms in its industry. In addition, First American was ranked on the Rochester Top 100 list comprised of the fastest growing companies in the greater Rochester, NY region. This was the company’s 7th time on the list since 2000. In addition, First American’s CEO, William Verhelle, was elected the 2008 Chairman of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA). The company looks forward to building upon these successes in 2009.