Globally, the automotive aftermarket industry size was valued at $392 billion in 2020, and it’s continuously growing. Some of the companies contributing to this growth are AutoZone and NAPA.
Indeed, these two companies provide products and services that make them different and similar in some ways. So how do they compare? Here’s all you need to know!
AutoZone vs. NAPA In [currentyear]
AutoZone and National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA) specialize in selling auto parts and accessories. Both retailers get their products from a similar supplier base; therefore, they offer competitive prices. In addition, they both have the same number of stores distributed in the U.S and beyond. However, they have some differences that set them apart in [currentyear].
To learn more about the similarities and differences between these two stores in terms of services, locations, price, products, and more, keep reading!
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Revenue
In 2021, AutoZone’s revenue was approximately $14.6 billion generated from the sale of products and provision of services.
On the other hand, NAPA, which is a subsidiary of Genuine Parts Company (GPC), made sales worth $3.2 billion in the fourth quarter, an increase from 2020.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Locations
AutoZone is primarily the largest automotive parts retailer in the United States. This store operates more than 6,000 stores in the U.S., Mexico, and Brazil.
NAPA Auto Stores also has a wide distribution system and almost the same number of locations as AutoZone.
Its more than 500,000 part numbers are distributed across 6,000 Napa stores, 57 distribution centers.
Additionally, there are more than 16,000 NAPA AutoCare and AutoCare Collision Centers across the United States.
With this kind of equal power and distribution of stores, AutoZone and NAPA can compete effectively.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Products
NAPA stores sell different types of products from replacement parts, oils and chemicals, tools and equipment, exterior and interior accessories, to different types of batteries.
AutoZone also sells similar products like NAPA; therefore, customers can find any product in both stores.
Both stores buy their items from the same manufacturers, which means you can easily get one product in either store.
However, if you are looking for a particular product, you can shop and compare the two stores. In some cases, they have differentiated parts.
According to past customers and employees, NAPA parts are deemed more high-quality and durable; therefore, they can last for years compared to AutoZone auto parts and accessories.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Services
AutoZone services vary a lot. Customers can use services such as Loan-A-Tool, repair app, mobile app, and find a repair shop.
NAPA also has a wide range of services available, including shipping, delivery, and repair services.
You can confirm with your nearest store about the available services depending on your location because they tend to vary.
Is AutoZone the Same as NAPA?
While both auto retailers seem very familiar, AutoZone and NAPA are two completely separate brands.
NAPA Auto Parts was started in 1925 by Carlyle Fraser, while AutoZone was established by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde in 1979.
Both AutoZone and NAPA are publicly traded companies and serve customers across the U.S. and beyond.
Additionally, they have the same number of stores, more than 6,000, which enables them to reach more customers.
NAPA and AutoZone appear similar because of their presence in most locations.
Since their establishment, they have expanded operations and acquired several businesses to strengthen their companies.
These two retailers have their original parts and brands that customers can only buy from their stores.
Compared to AutoZone, NAPA has more operations in regions such as Europe, Asia, and Canada, which serves more customers.
Which Is Cheaper Between AutoZone and NAPA?
According to most customers, NAPA auto parts and accessories tend to be more expensive because they have a higher quality.
AutoZone is cheaper: therefore, if you are looking for an auto store to buy products on a budget, it should be your first choice.
However, based on the customers, NAPA products will be more costly but will last longer. Therefore, before making the purchase, you need to weigh your options.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Return Policy
When you compare between AutoZone and NAPA stores, NAPA is less accommodating because it allows customers to return items within 30 days from the day of purchase.
However, AutoZone has a 90-day limit.
According to NAPA’s return policy, the product should be in its original packaging and condition.
If you bought the products online, you can ship back a defective item via UPS.
For AutoZone, you also need to have the item in its original packaging accompanied with the original receipt to get a refund or replacement.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Price Matching
Both AutoZone and NAPA offer price matching. While they both don’t have an explicit policy on their websites, customer feedback indicates that they offer price matching at both stores.
Therefore, if you want to get a price match, you should consult the staff at the stores to get a better price.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Rewards and Loyalty Program
AutoZone’s reward program enables customers to earn a $20 reward for every five purchases. These bonus rewards will expire after 90 days.
On the other hand, NAPA’s rewards program allows customers to earn 1 point for every dollar spent. Once a customer accumulates 100 points, they get a $5 credit reward.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Shipping
If you order a product online at NAPA, the company will send it to you via UPS and can ship to all the states in the U.S. NAPA online shipments take 2-5 business days.
AutoZone also has shipping services for its customers. You can get next-day shipping depending on what you order and the amount you spend on products.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Employee Satisfaction
Based on comparable reviews, AutoZone employees rate their overall company culture at 64%, while NAPA staff rate their company at 56%.
NAPA’s perks and benefits seem to be much better at 65% compared to 59% at AutoZone.
In addition, AutoZone has better professional development opportunities for staff at 53%, while NAPA is relatively low at 30%.
Based on these statistics, it appears that AutoZone might be a much better place to work, and employees are more satisfied.
Keep in mind that these results vary from store to store.
In addition, the salaries and benefits change over time; therefore, you should take time to research your options when applying for a job at either of these stores.
AutoZone vs. NAPA: Customer Reviews
Based on customer reviews, NAPA gets an average rating because of its quality products and sometimes low prices on some items.
However, there are complaints about poor customer service and rude employees.
On the other hand, AutoZone has a good reputation in most cases because the employees are quite helpful to the customers, especially if they need to find items.
Therefore, AutoZone has better customer satisfaction.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on AutoZone vs Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone vs O’Reilly, and AutoZone competitors.
Conclusion
AutoZone and National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA) specialize in selling auto parts and accessories. Both retailers get their products from a similar supplier base; therefore, they offer competitive prices.
In addition, they both have the same number of stores distributed in the U.S and beyond. However, they have some differences that set them apart regarding service delivery and the products offered.
