O’Reilly Automotive is an American retail company that sells aftermarket auto parts. The company is primarily active in the US and operates over 6,000 stores across the country. O’Reilly provides parts, equipment, tools, and more to both individual consumers looking to fix their vehicles by themselves, as well as business customers such as garages and workshops. The company is headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, and its shares are listed on the Nasdaq.

From a Single Store to a National Presence

O'Reilly Automotive's trajectory from its first store in Missouri, which opened in 1957, to a major player in the auto parts industry mirrors the evolving American automotive landscape. The company initially served a growing market of car owners, focusing on customer service and carrying a large inventory of parts. During the 1970s and 1980s, O'Reilly's expansion was marked by the acquisition of smaller auto parts chains, enabling them to compound and grow at a rapid rate. This growth strategy continued into the 1990s, culminating in an IPO in 1993. Today, O'Reilly operates a large network of stores across the United States, complemented by an online retail presence.

The Business Model

O'Reilly Automotive operates as a specialty retailer of automotive aftermarket parts, tools, supplies, equipment, and accessories. Its inventory includes new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, such as alternators, batteries, brake system components, belts, and hoses. In addition to hard parts, O'Reilly also provides maintenance items like oil, antifreeze, fluids, filters, and wiper blades, as well as accessories like floor mats and seat covers. The company ensures product availability through a well-orchestrated supply chain and distribution network, encompassing multiple distribution centers and retail outlets across the United States. The company’s closest publicly traded peers are AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and Genuine Parts Company (the owner of NAPA Auto Parts).

For Professionals and Individuals

O'Reilly Automotive serves both professional mechanics and individual consumers. For professionals, they offer a range of automotive parts, tools, and equipment that cater to their repair and service needs. The company's inventory and distribution system aims to ensure the timely availability of essential components for these professionals. For individual consumers, particularly DIY enthusiasts, O'Reilly provides not just auto parts and accessories, but also guidance and tools. This dual approach means that the company is an attractive place to shop for customers ranging from expert repair shops to everyday vehicle owners.