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AutoZone Opens 305 New Stores: Shows Record Expansion in New Markets

8 September 1997

AutoZone Opens 305 New Stores: Shows Record Expansion in New Markets

    MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 8 -- The opening of 305 net new
AutoZone stores and AutoZone's August entry into Maryland capped off a record
year for the company's expansion efforts into new markets.  John Adams Jr.,
chairman and chief executive officer of AutoZone Inc. said
Maryland was the fifth new state AutoZone entered in fiscal 1997, which ended
August 30.  The company also entered California, Iowa, New York and Nevada
during the year.
    "Opening 305 new stores is a great accomplishment, but what's really
exciting is the fact that so many of them are in markets where we didn't have
a presence 12 months ago," Mr. Adams said.  "These areas have tremendous
potential for growth."
    Mr. Adams said California and New York are good examples of new markets
where AutoZone has an opportunity to catch on quickly.  "We've been looking
forward to doing business in California and New York.  They are large areas
with big car populations and lots of people who do their own repair work,"
Mr. Adams said.  AutoZone ended the fiscal year with 11 stores in New York and
eight stores in California.
    AutoZone sells auto parts, chemicals and accessories through its chain of
1,728 stores in 32 states.
    Certain statements contained in this release which are not historical
facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and
assumptions including, but not limited to the activities of our competitors,
demand for our products, the success of our DIY and commercial programs, the
market for auto parts, the economy in general and the weather.  In light of
these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, there can be no assurance that any
forward-looking statement made herein will in fact be realized.

SOURCE  AutoZone Inc.