AutoZone: The Origin of the Leading Auto Parts Retailer
AutoZone, a leading auto parts retailer in the U.S., was founded in 1979 by J.R. Hyde III. Starting as Auto Shack, it grew into a Fortune 500 company known for quality, affordability, and excellent customer service. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and expansion into international markets has cemented its industry leadership. With over 65,000 employees, AutoZone continues to innovate by offering advanced diagnostic software and services tailored for both consumers and professionals. Its rich history and ongoing growth make it a dominant player in the automotive aftermarket sector.
The Story Behind AutoZone: How It Became a Household Name
AutoZone stands as the foremost retailer and distributor of automotive replacement components and accessories across the United States. Over the past three decades, the company has built a reputation for offering quality parts, competitive prices, and exceptional customer service in the automotive aftermarket sector. Their guiding principle is “AutoZoners always prioritize the customer,” and this commitment is evident in the friendly and knowledgeable staff dedicated to vehicle care. With a rich history and a growth-driven mindset, AutoZone continues to lead the industry.
AutoZone's origins trace back to the vision of J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III. After earning a degree in economics from the University of North Carolina, he joined Malone & Hyde, Inc., his family's wholesale food business. Pitt pioneered the company's retail division, expanding into drug stores, sporting goods, and supermarkets. Recognizing a demand for automotive maintenance supplies, he launched Auto Shack to bring supermarket-like standards—cleanliness, organization, and excellent service—to car parts retailing.
Auto Shack opened its doors on July 4, 1979, in Forrest City, Arkansas, with initial sales of around $300. By 1986, it was an independent entity, with Hyde serving as Chairman and CEO. Today, AutoZone is a Fortune 500 company, generating over $8 billion annually, and leading the U.S. auto parts industry.
Continued growth drives AutoZone’s expansion into new markets and services. In 1996, it introduced a program for professional technicians, offering credit and delivery. It also acquired ALLDATA, a leader in automotive diagnostic software. The company ventured into Mexico in 1998, establishing its first international store. Presently, AutoZone operates in 48 states, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, with a workforce of over 65,000 AutoZoners, all dedicated to customer satisfaction.
