Retail Auto Parts Stores

Want to learn more about retail auto parts stores and the automotive parts retail industry? The articles below answer a lot of the questions on retail trends and more.

We include AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts and NAPA (General Parts Company) as well as overall retail store trends.

Retail auto parts store sales trends

Demand for automobile parts, especially replacement and service repair parts, is impacted by the age of vehicles and miles driven. As a general rule, parts demand goes up when new car sales are weak and older cars are kept longer. Performance parts and accessories are less dependent on vehicle age and miles driven.

Large chain store companies have an advantage in economies of scale when it comes to purchasing and distribution. Small independent retailers can compete effectively by stocking specialized or hard-to-find parts, or providing expertise or home delivery.

Retail sales to DIY vs. DIFM trends

Automotive parts are sold to two main types of consumers. Do-it-yourself (DIY) consumers do their own work on cars, including maintenance or modifications. Do-it-for-me (DIFM) consumers have work done for them by auto repair shops, oil change chains, exhaust repair and muffler shops, tire and wheel retail stores, car dealer service departments or custom installation businesses.