TULSA, Okla. -- Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Inc. (DTG) on Valentine's Day distributed more than $15 million in profit-sharing and incentive compensation bonuses. Approximately $6.6 million was awarded to employees based in Oklahoma.

In addition to the more than 1,150 employees based at the Tulsa headquarters, the company employs approximately 250 workers at reservation centers in Tahlequah and Okmulgee.

"Last year was another challenging year for the travel industry. However, our company achieved impressive results," said Joseph E. Cappy, chairman, CEO and president of the company. "Knowing our business was facing dramatic and uncertain market conditions, we began 2002 by asking our employees to initiate critical cost-saving measures. We also challenged them to reach some very aggressive annual profit targets. These employees adjusted on the fly, worked together as a team and exceeded our objectives. Presenting our employees with these bonuses is an opportunity to say thank you for an exceptional job."

Cappy noted that bonus checks were distributed to employees, including part-timers, who have been with the company at least five months. "It is particularly impressive to note that our U.S. field management employees achieved the maximum payout of $5.1 million," Cappy said. "These field managers did a phenomenal job in picking up the pieces after the Sept. 11 tragedy."

Nearly $4.2 million went to employees who are not at the management level.