The first auto parts store was Western Auto.
Western Auto started as a mail order business in 1909 and they opened their first retail store in 1921.
After opening their first retail store in 1921 Western Auto grew quickly as the automobile became much more common.
Western Auto was also a pioneer in franchise operations with over 1,200 company owned stores and more than 4,000 associate stores.
In 1909, Western Auto became the first retailer of aftermarket automotive parts in the United States.
In 1928, Genuine Parts Company as a distributor of automotive replacement parts, industrial parts and consumer supplies.
Western Auto went defunct in 2003 and is no longer in business itself but some places still use their name.
After 2006, stores were to cease using the Western Auto name, but many stores continue to use the name.
At this time, no storefront is licensed to use the name Western Auto or fly the Western Auto sign.