Advance Auto Parts, a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider, has announced the acquisition of Carport Auto Parts, a regional chain with a strong presence in Alabama and Mississippi. This strategic merger, revealed on Thursday, will see Advance Auto Parts expand its footprint significantly, becoming the largest auto parts retailer in Alabama and solidifying its position as the second-largest nationwide.
The deal encompasses all 51 Carport auto parts stores across Alabama and Mississippi, including six locations in Tuscaloosa County, along with a distribution center and support offices situated on Rice Mine Road. Established 15 years ago, Carport Auto Parts has built a reputable brand in the region, and this acquisition marks a significant step in Advance Auto Parts’ growth strategy. The transition will involve rebranding all Carport locations under the Advance Auto Parts banner in the coming months.
Larry Castellani, CEO of Advance Auto Parts, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We are very excited to have the opportunity to acquire the Carport stores. The combination of our existing stores with Carport’s locations will make us the market leader in Alabama and enhances our position in Mississippi.” He further emphasized the value of the Carport team, noting, “A key element in our decision is the strong Carport team at both the store and regional management levels that will fit very well into our long-term plans.”
Echoing this positive sentiment, Jim Harrison, CEO of Carport Auto Parts, commented, “We are pleased our employees and our stores will become part of Advance Auto Parts. Our people share Advance’s commitment to customer service and operational excellence.” This acquisition promises to bring together two companies with a shared focus on quality car port auto parts and customer satisfaction.
While specific financial details of the franchise sale remain undisclosed, the merger is poised to reshape the automotive parts landscape in the Southeast. For customers, this transition will likely mean access to a wider selection of car port auto parts and services, backed by the extensive network and resources of Advance Auto Parts, which currently operates over 1,700 stores across 37 states. The integration of Carport’s established regional presence with Advance Auto Parts’ national scale signals a strengthening of the car port auto parts market for both consumers and industry professionals.
