Advance Auto Parts expands into new West Coast market
A leading aftermarket auto parts retailer is operating 22 new stores in a major California metro area.
Advance Auto Parts Inc. has opened 22 locations in the Los Angeles market as part of the company’s broader strategic expansion into the Western U.S. In spring 2021, Advance announced a plan to expand into California by leasing 109 Pep Boys stores and converting them to Advance stores, more than half of which are in the Los Angeles area.
Advance says it will employ approximately 1,850 associates in the state when all 109 stores are converted, including staffing the company’s newly opened 45,000-square-foot “super hub” flagship location located near downtown Los Angeles.
“We estimate that 70% of our customers in Los Angeles fit the profile of the classic do-it-yourselfer. Pairing that with the more than 7.6 million registered vehicles in Los Angeles’ unique car culture, this is a tremendous opportunity for Advance to bring Care and Speed to motorists through expert advice and best-in-class products and services,” said Tom Greco, president and CEO of Advance. “Our timing couldn’t be better as the average vehicle age increases while used car and gasoline prices are rising, resulting in greater demand for vehicle maintenance.”
Advance Auto Parts rolls out new store concept for independent owners
The retailer is expanding its Advance Auto Parts banner following the November 2021 launch of Carquest by Advance under its portfolio of brands. The new retail format is designed specifically for independent owners who will receive additional operations and merchandising DIY support from Advance Auto. (Carquest Corp. is an American automotive parts distribution network that is currently owned and operated by Advance via independent retailers.)
Carquest by Advance stores features a core selection of DIY automotive parts and products made available by Advance (including the DieHard battery brand, which is owned by Advance). In addition, independent owners can tap into Advance's network of supplier partners or work with local suppliers to carry other parts that meet the unique needs of their local customer base. They can also leverage Advance's resources and technical support, along with existing customer platforms such as the SpeedPerks loyalty program and e-receipt messaging.
The new stores offer free curbside services, including battery testing and installation, and wiper blade installation. They also offer curbside and in-store parts pickup, and DIY-friendly hours.
Advance supports approximately 20 Carquest by Advance stores. The company plans to target additional locations in markets across the U.S. in 2022 where it does not carry a significant retail presence.
Advance Auto Parts Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of April 23, 2022, Advance operated 4,687 stores and 311 Worldpac branches primarily within the United States, with additional locations in Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The company also served 1,318 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean islands.