ADVANCE AUTO PARTS INC - AAP STOCK NEWS

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) announced a $1 billion increase in its share repurchase authorization, raising the total to approximately $1.3 billion. The Board also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.00 per share, up from $0.25, payable July 2, 2021. CEO Tom Greco highlighted the company's robust 2020 results and strong financial position. For 2021, the company projects comparable store sales growth of 22% to 24% in Q1 and increased full-year guidance, signaling confidence in its strategic initiatives and financial health.

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) reported strong Q1 2021 estimated results prior to its virtual strategy presentation on April 20, 2021. The company anticipates comparable store sales growth of 22%-24%, with a two-year stack growth of 13%-15%. Adjusted operating income margin is projected between 8.5%-8.7%. The company's buyback program has returned approximately $170 million through the repurchase of 1.1 million shares. CEO Tom Greco highlighted the positive impact of government stimulus, favorable weather, and increased driving as factors contributing to growth.

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) will present its updated strategic business plan on April 20, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. ET. CEO Tom Greco and CFO Jeff Shepherd, along with the executive team, will outline progress on transformation initiatives and long-term objectives. A virtual Q&A will follow the presentation. Registration is required to participate, and a replay will be available post-event. As of January 2, 2021, Advance operated 4,806 stores and 170 Worldpac branches across the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP) announced the departure of Andrew Page, senior VP and chief accounting officer, effective April 9, 2021, as he pursues a CFO role. Tom Greco, CEO, praised Page's significant contributions, including improvements in accounting functions and initiatives supporting diversity and inclusion. A search for a new CAO has commenced, and CFO Jeff Shepherd will handle CAO responsibilities temporarily. The company operates 4,806 stores across North America and serves about 1,277 independent Carquest stores.

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) has launched the “Advance My Track Challenge,” a grassroots program aimed at connecting NASCAR short tracks with their communities. Running until April 27, fans can vote for their favorite of 22 tracks to win cash prizes for upgrades, with the top three tracks awarded $50,000, $15,000, and $10,000, respectively. The initiative aims to engage racing fans and enhance local tracks. The program coincides with Team Penske's Ryan Blaney's participation in the NASCAR Cup Series, showcasing the challenge on his car.

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP) announces the departure of Mike Broderick, EVP of merchandising and store operations, to pursue a CEO role. The company is expanding executive responsibilities to enhance operations and support transformation. Michael C. Creedon, Jr. has been promoted to EVP of U.S. stores, with comprehensive store operations oversight. Jason McDonell's role has expanded to include merchandising, while Ken Bush will lead the merchandising function. Additionally, Advance plans to convert 109 Pep Boys stores in California to Advance locations, boosting its omnichannel presence.

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) reported strong financial results for Q4 and full year 2020, with net sales reaching $10.1 billion, a 4.1% increase. Q4 net sales rose 12.0% to $2.4 billion, and comparable store sales were up 4.7%. Operating income grew 20.4% to $151.8 million, while diluted EPS increased by 19.6% to $1.65. The company returned $514.9 million to shareholders via buybacks and dividends. For 2021, expectations include net sales between $10.1 billion and $10.3 billion, with comparable store sales growth of 1.0% to 3.0%. The outlook remains optimistic as the economy stabilizes.

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE: AAP) and Team Penske have launched a new initiative for the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series, featuring the No. 12 Ford Mustang driven by Ryan Blaney. This partnership aims to spotlight local NASCAR-sanctioned short tracks across the U.S. and Canada. Each week, Blaney's car will display tracks from the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series, with $1,200 awarded to featured tracks for each victory. The sponsorship will continue across four races this season, enhancing community engagement and support for local racing.

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP) will announce its Q4 and FY 2020 results on February 16, 2021, before the market opens. The company invites interested parties to join a live webcast at 8:00 a.m. ET on the same day. Additionally, Advance will host a virtual strategy update on April 20, 2021, to discuss its strategic initiatives and long-term goals, presented by CEO Tom Greco and CFO Jeff Shepherd. As of October 3, 2020, Advance operated 4,811 stores and 168 Worldpac branches across multiple regions, including the U.S. and Canada.