AutoZone, Inc. is a United States–based company operating in the retail sector, within the automotive parts and accessories industry.
The company specializes in selling replacement parts, maintenance products, tools and accessories for light vehicles. Founded in 1979 in Tennessee by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III, AutoZone emerged during a period of growing vehicle ownership in the U.S. and increasing demand for high-quality replacement parts. The company introduced a new concept of organized, customer-focused auto-parts retailing, which became a defining feature of its business model.
AutoZone’s portfolio includes batteries, brakes, ignition components, filters, engine parts, automotive fluids, tools, maintenance items and accessories. The company provides additional services such as free battery and charging-system testing, check-engine code scanning, tool-loan programs and technical assistance for do-it-yourself customers. AutoZone also serves professional repair shops through its commercial division, AutoZonePro.
The company operates primarily in North America, with more than 7,000 stores across the United States, Mexico and Brazil. Its operational structure includes regional distribution centers, advanced logistics networks, digital sales platforms, electronic parts catalogs and delivery services for workshops. AutoZone combines private-label products with trusted global brands to support a wide range of vehicle models.
Market factors influencing the company include aging vehicle fleets in the U.S., economic cycles that encourage vehicle maintenance over replacement, competition among automotive-parts retailers, supply-chain pressures, logistics costs, e-commerce adoption and technological changes in the automotive industry. AutoZone maintains competitive strength through broad product availability, efficient logistics and strong physical presence.
AutoZone, Inc.’s shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker AZO.
History and when AutoZone, Inc. was founded
AutoZone was founded in 1979 as Auto Shack by J.R. Hyde III in Forrest City, Arkansas. The early vision was to modernize auto-parts retailing through organized store layouts, trained staff and consistent customer service. The company expanded rapidly, implementing innovative technology systems to manage inventory and store operations more efficiently.
During the 1980s, Auto Shack evolved into AutoZone, adopting the new name in 1987 to strengthen brand identity. Investments in operational systems and standardized processes supported its growing store base. In 1991, AutoZone completed its initial public offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange, enabling accelerated expansion, logistics enhancements and broader market penetration.
In the 2000s, AutoZone expanded customer services, launched proprietary brands, strengthened digital tools and grew its commercial-service division for professional mechanics. International expansion began with the opening of stores in Mexico.
From 2010 onward, the company increased investments in data analytics, supply-chain optimization and large-scale distribution. The brand solidified its leadership position in auto-parts retailing, supported by consistent demand for vehicle maintenance.
Between 2020 and 2024, AutoZone navigated supply-chain disruptions and rising transportation costs, while continuing to expand its store network and digital capabilities. The company also increased its presence in Brazil and strengthened its commercial-delivery operations.
AutoZone preserved its strategic focus on availability, efficiency and customer service, maintaining its role as one of the largest auto-parts retailers in the world.
Additional Information
The Company AutoZone Inc. (United States), is listed on NYSE with a market value of $ 63.72 Billions, having an equity of $ -3.23 Billions.
With a total of 100.000 employees, the company is listed in the sector of Consumer Cyclical and categorized in industry of Truck and Auto Parts.
In the last 12 months the Company had a revenue of $ 19.29 Billions, which generated a profit in the amount of $ 2.46 Billions.
As for its main indicators, the Company has a P/E ratio of 25.86, a P/BV ratio of -19.74 and in the last 12 months the Company did not pay dividends.
The Company is traded internationally through the ticker AZO.