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RALEIGH, N.C. & HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 23, 2019-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP) has acquired the DieHard brand from Transform Holdco LLC (“Transformco”), for $200 million utilizing cash on hand. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191223005397/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) This asset acquisition will give Advance the right to sell DieHard batteries, the most trusted brand in the automotive battery category, and enables Advance to extend the DieHard brand into other automotive and vehicular categories. In addition, the deal allows Transformco to sell DieHard brand batteries through its existing channels pursuant to a supply agreement with Advance. Advance is also granting Transformco an exclusive royalty-free, perpetual license to develop, market, and sell DieHard branded products in non-automotive categories. “We are excited to acquire global ownership of an iconic American brand. DieHard will help differentiate Advance, drive increased DIY customer traffic and build a unique value proposition for our Professional customers and Independent Carquest partners. DieHard has the highest brand awareness and regard of any automotive battery brand in North America and will enable Advance to build a leadership position within the critical battery category,” said Tom Greco, president and CEO, Advance Auto Parts. “DieHard stands for durability and reliability and we will strengthen and leverage the brand in other battery categories, such as marine and recreational vehicles. We also see opportunities to extend DieHard in other automotive categories. We remain committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and excellent service. The addition of DieHard to our industry leading assortment of national brands, OE parts and owned brands will enable us to differentiate Advance and drive significant long-term shareholder value.” “DieHard is among the most successful and one of the most widely trusted brands in the auto industry, and we have long believed that the brand has even more potential,” said Peter Boutros, President of Transformco’s Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard business unit. “DieHard revolutionized the automotive battery category when it launched in 1967, and has continued to be a leader in the category. Advance Auto Parts’ acquisition of this iconic American brand will complement our plans to introduce new DieHard products in non-automotive categories such as sporting goods, lawn and garden, authentic work wear and other exciting new categories.” About Advance Auto Parts Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of October 5, 2019, Advance operated 4,891 stores and 152 Worldpac branches in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves 1,260 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and British Virgin Islands. Additional information about Advance, including employment opportunities, customer services, and online shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com. About Transformco Transform Holdco LLC is a leading integrated retailer focused on seamlessly connecting the digital and physical shopping experiences to serve its members – wherever, whenever and however they want to shop. Transformco is home to Shop Your Way®, a social shopping platform offering members rewards for shopping at Sears, Kmart and other retail partners. Transformco operates through its subsidiaries with full-line and specialty retail stores across the United States. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this report are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events or developments, and typically use words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “outlook” or “estimate” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to the benefits or other effects of the acquisition, statements regarding expected growth and future performance of the Company, and all other statements that are not statements of historical facts. These statements are based upon assessments and assumptions of management in light of historical results and trends, current conditions and potential future developments that often involve judgment, estimates, assumptions and projections. Forward-looking statements reflect current views about the Company's plans, strategies and prospects, which are based on information currently available as of the date of this release. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements. Please refer to the risk factors discussed in "Item 1a. Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as updated by its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, for additional factors that could materially affect the Company’s actual results. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside its control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from these statements. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on those statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191223005397/en/ Source: Advance Auto Parts, Inc. Advance Auto Parts: Media Relations: Darryl Carr T: (984) 389-7207 E: [email protected] Investor Relations: Elisabeth Eisleben T: (919) 227-5466 E: [email protected] Transformco Media: Larry Costello T: (847) 286-9036 E: [email protected] Source: https://advanceautopartsinc.gcs-web.com/news-releases/news-release-details/advance-auto-parts-announces-purchase-diehard-brand-transformco

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In the era of online shopping when countless holiday gifts are available at the click of a button, putting in a little extra time and legwork can mean a lot. The Car Care Council offers these thoughtful and practical ideas for gift-givers who want to go beyond a simple mouse click for their family and friends this holiday season. “We live such busy and stressful lives these days and sometimes simply taking a chore off of someone’s plate can be the most thoughtful gift,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “The gift of car care will not only let your family and friends check an important task off their list, but it will help keep them safe on the road.” An oil change and inspection: Regular oil changes are the best way to keep a car running in peak condition, but some drivers find it to be an onerous chore. If this sounds like someone you know, an oil change and inspection may be the perfect gift. Whether you take their car to a trusted professional technician or do it yourself, your family and friends will appreciate the time and effort you put into their gift. A car wash and detail: Keeping a vehicle clean and detailed helps protect the paint, interior and wheels from harsh weather and damaging chemicals. A busy driver in your life will appreciate you taking the time to have their car professionally cleaned and detailed or doing it yourself. A roadside emergency kit: For the traditionalist who can’t imagine a gift that isn’t wrapped up and under the tree, the Car Care Council suggests putting together a roadside emergency kit, including items such as jumper cables; emergency flares; a flashlight with batteries; blankets and extra clothes; water and non-perishable snacks; a first aid kit; a portable USB charger; an ice scraper, snow brush and small shovel; and the council’s Car Care Guide, available free of charge at www.carcare.org. The non-profit Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For the latest car care news, visit the council’s online media room at http://media.carcare.org. To order a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit the council’s consumer education website at www.carcare.org. The post Car Care for Christmas: Go the Extra Mile for a Driver in Your Life appeared first on Be Car Care Aware. View the full article

MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Dec. 10, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE: AZO) today reported net sales of $2.8 billion for its first quarter (12 weeks) ended November 23, 2019 , an increase of 5.7% from the first quarter of fiscal 2019 (12 weeks). Domestic same store sales, or sales for stores View the full article

MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Dec. 03, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO), announced it will hold its Annual Meeting of Stockholders on December 18, 2019 , at the J.R. Hyde III Store Support Center in Memphis , Tennessee. The meeting will begin at 9:00 a.m. View the full article

MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Nov. 27, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO), the nation’s leading auto parts retailer and a leading distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories, will release results for its first quarter ended Saturday, November 23, 2019 , before market open on View the full article

Leading auto parts provider to sponsor the No. 12 Ford Mustang driven by Ryan Blaney RALEIGH, N.C. --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 21, 2019-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider, and Team Penske today announced a new multi-year partnership beginning with View the full article

While you’re busy preparing for another holiday season, don’t let car care take a back seat. Neglected auto care almost always means much higher costs down the road in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value. The non-profit Car Care Council recommends that you be car care aware to ensure your car doesn’t gobble up your hard-earned money. “If you’re like most people, you’re busier than ever this time of year and may find yourself putting off vehicle maintenance,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “It’s important to remember that routine auto care means big savings by improving fuel economy, extending vehicle life and reducing the chance of costly car trouble.” The Car Care Council suggests a quick vehicle check to help avoid the unplanned expense of a breakdown when traveling by car this holiday season. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant. Check the hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system. Check lighting to identify any problems with exterior and interior lighting, as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen. Check wipers. Wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Make sure the windshield wipers are working properly and keep the reservoir filled with solvent. The Car Care Council also recommends that motorists restock their emergency kit. To save on fuel costs during the trip, the council suggests that motorists avoid aggressive driving, observe the speed limit and avoid excessive idling. Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating. The Car Care Council’s free personalized schedule and email reminder service is a simple way to help you take better care of your vehicle this holiday season and throughout the year. It is an easy-to-use resource designed to help you drive smart, save money and make informed decisions. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For the latest car care news, visit the council’s online media room at http://media.carcare.org. To order a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit the council’s consumer education website at www.carcare.org. The post Don’t Let Your Car Gobble up Your Hard-Earned Money appeared first on Be Car Care Aware. View the full article

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The recent record cold weather in a large part of the country should be a wake-up call to motorists who have not yet winterized their vehicles, warns the Car Care Council. “Freezing cold temperatures can stress out a vehicle, as well as its driver,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “The recent record low temperatures are a harsh reminder to be car care aware. Motorists should invest a little time now to check their vehicles so they have one less worry when arctic temperatures strike again.” Very cold temperatures reduce a vehicle’s battery power so it’s important to keep the connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. Batteries don’t always give warning signs before they fail completely, so if the vehicle’s battery is more than three years old, it’s wise to replace it. Be diligent about changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Consider changing to “winter weight” oil if you live in a cold climate. Check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time. Have the brakes inspected and check the tire tread depth and tire pressure. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads. During winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly. Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance or rough idling, so if you’re due for a tune-up, have it done before the temperatures drop again. Also, clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system and have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed. For good visibility, make sure that exterior and interior lights work and headlights are properly aimed. Also check to see that heaters, defrosters, lights and wipers work properly. Consider winter wiper blades and use cold weather washer fluid. Wiper blades that are cracked or torn, or that chatter, streak and don’t properly clean your windshield should be changed. Keep the gas tank at least half full at all times to decrease the chances of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing. Lastly, stock an emergency kit with an ice scraper and snowbrush, jumper cables, flashlight, flares, blanket, extra clothes, candles/matches, bottled water, dry food snacks and needed medication. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For the latest car care news, visit the council’s online media room at http://media.carcare.org. To order a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit the council’s consumer education website at www.carcare.org. The post Arctic Blast Wake-Up Call: Winterize Your Vehicle Now appeared first on Be Car Care Aware. View the full article

Net Sales Increased 1.6% to $2.3B ; Comparable Store Sales Increased 1.2% Operating Income Increased 11.7% to $172.3M ; Adjusted Operating Income Increased 5.9% to $205.1M Diluted EPS Increased 12.2% to $1.75 ; Adjusted Diluted EPS Increased 11.1% to $2.10 Announces Additional $700.0M Share View the full article

New learning management system introduces Career Pathways to help guide technician’s journey in the aftermarket RALEIGH, N.C. --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 1, 2019-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider, has launched a new learning management system View the full article

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Oct. 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (the “Company” or “O’Reilly”) (Nasdaq: ORLY), a leading retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, today announced record revenues and earnings for its third quarter ended September 30, 2019. View the full article

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Oct. 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (the “Company” or “O’Reilly”) (Nasdaq: ORLY), a leading retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, today announced record revenues and earnings for its third quarter ended September 30, 2019. View the full article

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Oct. 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (the “Company” or “O’Reilly”) (Nasdaq: ORLY), a leading retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, today announced record revenues and earnings for its third quarter ended September 30, 2019. View the full article

SPRINGFIELD, Mo., Oct. 23, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (the “Company” or “O’Reilly”) (Nasdaq: ORLY), a leading retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, today announced record revenues and earnings for its third quarter ended September 30, 2019. View the full article

RALEIGH, N.C. --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 22, 2019-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers, will report its third quarter 2019 results before the market opens on View the full article

- Record Sales of $5.0 billion, Up 6.2% - View the full article

MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Oct. 16, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone , Inc. (NYSE:AZO) today announced that W. Andrew McKenna and Luis P. Nieto have decided not to stand for re-election to the company’s Board of Directors and will retire from the board in December. View the full article

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MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Oct. 09, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone , Inc. (NYSE:AZO) today announced that Preston Frazer , currently Divisional Vice President of Stores and Store Operations Support, Customer Satisfaction has been promoted to the position of Senior Vice President, Store Operations, View the full article

MEMPHIS, Tenn. , Oct. 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE: AZO) today announced its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $1.250 billion of the Company’s common stock in connection with its ongoing share repurchase program. View the full article