AutoZone
American retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, the largest in the United States with over 7,000 locations.
Company Type
public
Founded
1979
Headquarters
Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Stock
NYSE: AZO
About AutoZone
AutoZone operates as a retailer of aftermarket automotive parts, tools, supplies, equipment, and accessories. The company serves both professional service providers (garages, service stations) and do-it-yourself customers. AutoZone's product assortment includes engine parts, electrical components, batteries, fluids, tools, and accessories for vehicles of all types.
The company operates through a network of company-owned stores with centralized distribution and supply chain management. AutoZone's business model emphasizes convenience, competitive pricing, and knowledgeable customer service. The company also operates Alldata, a provider of diagnostic and maintenance software for automotive professionals.
History of AutoZone
AutoZone was founded in 1979 by Pitt Hyde in Forrest City, Arkansas, as Auto Shack. The company began as a single store offering aftermarket automotive parts at discount prices. The concept proved successful, and Auto Shack expanded rapidly throughout Arkansas and neighboring states.
In 1987, the company changed its name to AutoZone to reflect its broader market positioning and national expansion strategy. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, AutoZone expanded aggressively, becoming the largest aftermarket automotive parts retailer in the United States. The company went public in 1998, allowing for significant capital investment and continued expansion.
AutoZone expanded internationally, opening stores in Mexico in 1998, Puerto Rico in 2005, Brazil in 2012, and the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2019. The company has continuously adapted to changing market conditions, including the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences in automotive maintenance. AutoZone has maintained its market leadership through strong store operations, customer service, and strategic acquisitions.
Brands Owned by AutoZone
AutoZone owns 0 brands in our database.
Stock Information
AutoZone Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Market leadership position as largest U.S. aftermarket automotive parts retailer
- +Extensive store network with 7,140+ locations
- +Strong brand recognition and customer loyalty
- +Diverse product portfolio serving multiple customer segments
- +Public ownership provides access to capital markets
- +Established supply chain and distribution infrastructure
- +Alldata software division provides additional revenue streams
Considerations
- -Vulnerability to automotive industry trends (electric vehicles, changing maintenance patterns)
- -Competition from online retailers and other automotive parts chains
- -Dependence on consumer spending on vehicle maintenance
- -Supply chain complexity across multiple countries
- -Regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions
- -Economic sensitivity to consumer discretionary spending
Frequently Asked Questions About AutoZone
Is AutoZone publicly traded?
Yes, AutoZone is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol AZO. Investors can purchase shares in the company and own a portion of its automotive parts retail operations.
When was AutoZone founded?
AutoZone was founded in 1979 by Pitt Hyde as Auto Shack in Forrest City, Arkansas. The company changed its name to AutoZone in 1987 and has operated for over 45 years.
How many AutoZone locations are there?
AutoZone operates over 7,140 retail locations across the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, making it the largest aftermarket automotive parts retailer in the United States.
What products does AutoZone sell?
AutoZone sells a comprehensive range of aftermarket automotive parts, tools, supplies, equipment, and accessories including engine parts, electrical components, batteries, fluids, tools, and accessories for vehicles of all types.
Does AutoZone operate internationally?
Yes, AutoZone operates stores in Mexico (since 1998), Puerto Rico (since 2005), Brazil (since 2012), and the U.S. Virgin Islands (since 2019), in addition to its extensive U.S. store network.
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