Discover the comprehensive history and expansion milestones of Advance Auto Parts, highlighting its strategic acquisitions and growth in the U.S. auto parts industry. Learn about its key developments, sponsorships, and major investors that shape its market presence.

The Evolution of Advance Auto Parts

Based in Roanoke, Virginia, Advance Auto Parts stands as a leading retailer of automotive components and accessories throughout the United States. Operating over 1,300 independent outlets alongside Carquest and more than 5,200 company-managed stores nationwide, it employs upwards of 70,000 people, making it the largest auto parts retailer by store count in the country.

Founded in 1932 when Arthur Taubman acquired the Advance Stores from Pep Boys, the company started with a single shop in Lynchburg and two in Roanoke, Virginia.

The company's key growth phase was in 1998 after acquiring Western Auto's operations, a major retailer in auto parts. Previously, Sears, Roebuck & Co. had bought a majority stake in Western Auto in 1987. Further expansion occurred in 2001 when Advance Auto Parts bought Carport Auto Parts, a regional chain with 29 stores in Mississippi and Alabama.

Later that year, the company also acquired Discount Auto Parts Inc., a regional chain with over 600 outlets in southeastern U.S. states, significantly enlarging its footprint.

By 2001, Advance Auto Parts operated more than 2,400 stores across 38 states and was listed on the NYSE under the ticker AAP. In 2002, it expanded by acquiring 57 Trak Auto stores in the Washington D.C. region. The 2005 acquisition of Auto Part International Inc., with 202 stores along the Atlantic coast, further strengthened its position, functioning as an integral segment.

In 2013, the company made a major move by acquiring General Parts Inc., Carquest Canada, and WorldPac for approximately $2.04 billion. It has actively sponsored motorsport events like NASCAR and Daytona races and supported trucks such as the Advance Auto Parts Grinder from 2010 to 2013.

Major investors such as Wellington Management Group, The Vanguard Group, Lazard, State Street Corporation, and BlackRock hold substantial shares, highlighting its significant market influence.

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