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Advance Auto Parts

retail
PE-OWNED

Automotive aftermarket parts retailer serving DIY and professional customers.

PE-OWNED

Acquired by Cerberus Capital Management2014-01-02

View PE Firm Profile

What Made It Great

Leading auto parts chain with strong commercial sales and delivery network

What PE Will Likely Do

Advance Auto Parts will likely close a significant number of their retail locations, impacting customer convenience and access to their products

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: Cerberus Capital Management's track record of high bankruptcy rates and cost-cutting tactics in their portfolio companies

The quality and selection of automotive parts and accessories offered by Advance Auto Parts will likely decline as they reduce inventory levels to improve cash flow

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: The industry playbook for private equity firms in the retail sector, which includes debt loading, dividend recapitalization, store closures, inventory reduction, and deferred maintenance

The level of customer service and expertise provided by Advance Auto Parts employees will likely diminish as the company enacts staffing reductions to cut costs

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: The similar outcomes observed in past private equity acquisitions of healthcare and other companies, which often led to bankruptcy or significant decline in product/service quality

The reliability and performance of Advance Auto Parts' delivery network for professional and commercial customers will likely deteriorate as the company defers maintenance and upgrades

HIGH LIKELIHOODBased on: The similar outcomes observed in past private equity acquisitions of healthcare and other companies, which often led to bankruptcy or significant decline in product/service quality

Expected Timeline

0-6 monthsCompleted

0 to 6 months months

Advance Auto Parts will announce plans for 'optimizing' their retail footprint and 'streamlining' operations

6-12 monthsYOU ARE HERE

6 to 12 months months

Advance Auto Parts will begin closing underperforming retail locations and implementing staff reductions

12-24 months

12 to 24 months months

Customers will notice a decline in product selection, inventory levels, and in-store experience at Advance Auto Parts locations

24-48 months

24 to 48 months months

Advance Auto Parts may face financial difficulties and bankruptcy rumors as the company continues aggressive cost-cutting measures

48-60 months

48 to 60 months months

Advance Auto Parts could potentially face restructuring, a fire sale, or even liquidation if the company is unable to return to profitability

Similar Cases

Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition

What You Can Do

Actions

  • Consumers should expect to see a gradual decline in the availability, quality, and reliability of automotive parts and services at Advance Auto Parts locations

  • Consumers who rely on Advance Auto Parts for their DIY or professional automotive needs should consider alternative suppliers and sources for parts and accessories

  • Consumers should be prepared for potentially longer wait times, reduced inventory, and lower-quality customer service at Advance Auto Parts stores

Alternatives

CostcoSAFE

Employee-owned warehouse retailer

TargetSAFE

Publicly traded retailer with strong values

Share this company's PE status

"Advance Auto Parts is now PE-owned. Here's what that means for you."