Advance Auto Parts to Acquire Carport Auto Parts Stores

    ROANOKE, Va., and TUSCALOOSA, Ala., March 15 Advance Auto
Parts and Carport Auto Parts announced today that they have signed a
definitive agreement whereby Advance would acquire all of the 51 stores that
Carport operates in Alabama and Mississippi.  Upon completion of the
transaction, which is expected in April of this year, Advance will become the
largest retail auto parts chain in Alabama.  The Carport stores will be
converted to Advance Auto Parts.

    Financial terms of the asset purchase were not disclosed.

    Larry Castellani, Chief Executive Officer of Advance, commented, "We are
very excited to have the opportunity to acquire the Carport stores, which have
established a strong market presence in Alabama and Mississippi since the
first location opened 15 years ago.  The combination of our existing stores
with Carports' locations will make us the market leader in Alabama and
enhances our position in Mississippi.  A key element in our decision is the
strong Carport team at both the store and regional management level that will
fit very well into our long term plans."

    Jim Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of Carport Auto Parts, said, "We are
pleased our employees and our stores will become part of Advance Auto Parts.
Our people share Advance's commitment to customer service and operational
excellence."

    Mr. Castellani concluded, "The Carport transaction is consistent with our
strategy to pursue acquisitions that strengthen our position in our existing
markets while allowing us to achieve efficiencies in our existing stores."