ARKANSAS BEST CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY ANNOUNCE APPOINTMENT OF NEW OFFICERS

(ARKANSAS BEST CORPORATION - NASDAQ/NMS: "ABFS")

(Fort Smith, Arkansas, December 11, 1995) - Robert A. Young III, President and Chief Executive Officer of Arkansas Best Corporation (the "Company'), announced today the appointment of Lary P.. Scott as Executive Vice President of the Company effective immediately. Mr. Scott previously served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of WorldWay Corporation.

Mr. Young also announced the appointment of David E. Loeffler as Vice President and Treasurer of the Company effective immediately. Mr. Loeffler previously served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of a major motor carrier and has been involved with the motor carrier industry for over 25 years.

David E. Stubblefield, President and Chief Executive Officer of ABF Freight System, Inc., announced the promotion of Roy M. Slagle as Vice President-Treasurer of ABF. Mr. Slagle, who joined ABF in 1976, previously served as a regional Vice President - Sales. ABF Freight System, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

Contact:      Mr. Randall M. Loyd, Director - Financial Reporting
                     Telephone: (501) 785-6200