Major Auto Parts Retailer to Close Hundreds of Stores Nationwide Including South Carolina

One of the largest auto parts retailers in the country has announced plans to close more than 700 stores nationwide by mid-2025. This move comes as the company works to address declining sales and improve its overall financial performance.

Potential Closures in South Carolina

While specific locations have yet to be disclosed, the decision could have significant effects on South Carolina, where Advance Auto Parts operates many stores. Residents and employees in the Palmetto State may face the ripple effects of these closures, as the company’s restructuring strategy unfolds in the coming months.

A Plan to Improve Productivity

According to Advance Auto Parts’ third-quarter earnings report for 2024, the company has seen a 2.3% decrease in comparable store sales and a $100 million drop in net sales compared to the same period last year. Shane O’Kelly, the company’s president and CEO, described the closures as part of a broader plan to "improve productivity" and maximize shareholder value.

Of the closures, 523 are corporate-owned stores, 204 are independently operated locations, and four are distribution centers. Despite the significant downsizing, the company plans to open 60 new market hub locations by 2027, though the specifics of these expansions remain unclear.

What This Means for South Carolina

With Advance Auto Parts currently operating 4,781 stores across the U.S., including multiple locations in South Carolina, the impending closures could reshape the automotive retail landscape in the state. The company has already closed 29 locations this year and is preparing for more as part of its three-year financial plan.

For South Carolinians, these changes may mean fewer local options for auto parts and accessories, particularly if their nearest Advance Auto Parts store is shuttered. However, the introduction of market hubs could signal a shift in how the company serves its customers.

As the restructuring continues, employees and customers alike are encouraged to stay informed about updates from Advance Auto Parts regarding store closures and the potential introduction of new market hubs in South Carolina.

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