AutoZone expands store footprint via deal with Pep Boys

Pep Boys plans to lease its retail locations in Puerto Rico to AutoZone.

The conversion marks the final step in Pep Boys' transition to a business model that is primarily focused on automotive services.

"This further reinforces our position as a leading auto repair and maintenance provider for car owners and fast-growing fleets across our service territories, said Scott Collette, CEO of Pep Boys. “The conversion provides us with an opportunity to enhance our Automotive Service Center locations on the island, reinvest in the emerging needs of customers in this market and provide our Pep Boys retail team members with potential employment opportunities at AutoZone."

The conversion allows each company to strengthen its presence in Puerto Rico and provide a more robust customer-focused, comprehensive, and convenient automotive solution for all drivers throughout the Puerto Rico territory.

"We are excited to further expand our presence across Puerto Rico and continue delivering on our commitment to always put our customers first," said Bill Rhodes, chairman, president and CEO, AutoZone. The longtime chief is set to step down in January, and will become executive chairman.  He will be succeeded by 29-year company veteran Philip B. Daniele, III,  currently executive VP merchandising, marketing and supply chain. 

 As of Nov. 18, 2023,  AutoZone had 6,316 stores in the U.S., 745 in Mexico and 104 in Brazil, for a total count of 7,165 locations.

The majority of AutoZone stores have a commercial sales program that provides commercial credit and prompt delivery of parts and other products to local, regional and national repair garages, dealers, service stations, fleet owners and other accounts. AutoZone also sells automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories and non-automotive products.