AutoZone Authorizes Additional Stock Repurchase

Rhea-AI Summary

AutoZone (NYSE: AZO) has authorized an additional $1.5 billion for its share repurchase program, bringing total buybacks since 1998 to $26.15 billion. This move reflects AutoZone's strong financial performance and commitment to returning cash to shareholders while ensuring liquidity. The company's disciplined capital allocation strategy aims to drive growth and enhance returns. As of February 2021, AutoZone operates 6,625 stores across the U.S., Mexico, and Brazil, positioning itself as a leader in automotive replacement parts.

Positive

• Authorization of an additional $1.5 billion in share repurchases, enhancing shareholder value.
• Total buybacks now reach $26.15 billion since 1998, demonstrating commitment to returning cash to shareholders.
• Strong financial performance supports continued growth and investment opportunities.

Negative

• None.

MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE: AZO), today announced its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $1.5 billion of the Company’s common stock in connection with its ongoing share repurchase program. Since the inception of the repurchase program in 1998, and including the above amount, AutoZone’s Board of Directors has authorized $26.15 billion in share repurchases.

“AutoZone’s continued strong financial performance allows us to grow our business, return meaningful amounts of cash to our shareholders and maintain our investment grade credit ratings,” said Jamere Jackson, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President – Finance, and Store Development. “We remain committed to our disciplined capital allocation policy to drive growth and enhance shareholder returns while maintaining adequate liquidity.”

About AutoZone:

As of February 13, 2021, the Company had 5,951 stores in the U.S., 628 stores in Mexico, and 46 stores in Brazil for a total store count of 6,625.

AutoZone is the leading retailer and a leading distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories in the Americas. Each AutoZone store carries an extensive product line for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans and light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Many stores also have a commercial sales program that provides commercial credit and prompt delivery of parts and other products to local, regional and national repair garages, dealers, service stations and public sector accounts. We also have commercial programs in all stores in Mexico and Brazil. AutoZone also sells the ALLDATA brand diagnostic and repair software through www.alldata.com and www.alldatadiy.com. Additionally, we sell automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories and non-automotive products through www.autozone.com and our commercial customers can make purchases through www.autozonepro.com. We also provide product information on our Duralast branded products through www.duralastparts.com. AutoZone does not derive revenue from automotive repair or installation.

Financial: Brian Campbell at (901) 495-7005, brian.campbell@autozone.com
Media: David McKinney at (901) 495-7951, david.mckinney@autozone.com 

FAQ

What is the recent share repurchase announcement by AutoZone (AZO)?

AutoZone announced a $1.5 billion increase to its ongoing share repurchase program, totaling $26.15 billion since 1998.

How many stores does AutoZone currently operate?

As of February 2021, AutoZone operates 6,625 stores across the U.S., Mexico, and Brazil.

What is the purpose of AutoZone's share repurchase program?

The program aims to return cash to shareholders and enhance shareholder value amidst strong financial performance.

How does the share repurchase impact AutoZone's shareholders?

The share buyback is expected to increase shareholder value by potentially boosting earnings per share (EPS).