AutoZone's Journey to Industry Leadership

AutoZone is recognized as the top provider of automotive replacement parts and accessories across the United States. With over three decades of dedication, the company is known for offering high-quality products, competitive prices, and outstanding customer support in the automotive aftermarket sector. Their commitment is encapsulated in the motto “AutoZoners always put customers first,” a principle they uphold through friendly, knowledgeable service. AutoZone’s success is driven by a team with a rich legacy of excellence and dedication to customer satisfaction.

AutoZone began with the vision of J.R. "Pitt" Hyde III, a graduate in economics from the University of North Carolina. Initially working within Malone & Hyde, Inc., a family-founded wholesale food business, Pitt pioneered the retail division that expanded across various sectors. Recognizing a gap in automotive parts retail, he founded Auto Shack, inspired by the organized and customer-focused approach of supermarkets. The first store opened in Forrest City, Arkansas, on July 4, 1979, with modest sales but ambitious growth plans.

By 1986, Auto Shack became an independent company, with Pitt serving as Chairman and CEO. Today, AutoZone has grown into a Fortune 500 firm, generating over $8.1 billion annually. The company has expanded into new markets and introduced innovative services, such as credit programs for professional mechanics and acquiring leading automotive software provider, ALLDATA. Since its debut in Mexico in 1998, AutoZone now serves customers across 48 states, Mexico, and Puerto Rico with over 65,000 staff members, known as AutoZoners. Its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction remains at the core of its success.