O’Reilly Auto Parts has a rich history rooted in a commitment to serving the automotive needs of communities across America. While you’re searching for “o’reilly auto parts kingman car parts”, it’s worth understanding the long journey and dedication that built this trusted brand, ensuring that when you visit O’Reilly in Kingman, you’re benefiting from decades of expertise and a family legacy in the auto parts business.
The O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. story officially began in November 1957 in Springfield, Missouri. However, the family’s involvement in the automotive industry and their drive for progress started much earlier. Michael Byrne O’Reilly, seeking a better life, immigrated from Ireland to America in 1849 during the potato famine. He settled in St. Louis, pursued education, and became a lawyer. His son, Charles Francis O’Reilly, followed in his entrepreneurial spirit and entered the automotive world in 1914 as a salesman for Fred Campbell Auto Supply in St. Louis.
Charles Francis O’Reilly’s career advanced, and by 1924, his sales territory brought him to the Springfield region. Recognizing the area’s potential for growth, he requested a transfer and by 1932, he was managing Link Motor Supply in Springfield. His son, Charles H. (Chub) O’Reilly, joined him, and together they provided strong leadership that made Link Motor Supply a leading auto parts provider in the region. Their combined expertise and dedication to customer service laid the groundwork for what was to come.
A turning point arrived in 1957 when Link Motor Supply planned a reorganization that didn’t align with the O’Reillys’ vision. Instead of accepting the proposed changes, Charles F. and Charles H. O’Reilly made a bold decision: they would establish their own company. Thus, O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. was born. On December 2, 1957, they opened their first store at 403 Sherman in Springfield with 13 dedicated employees. The first full year, 1958, saw impressive sales of $700,000, a testament to the hard work and commitment of the initial team, many of whom were also company stockholders. This early success was built on a foundation of strong customer relationships and a dedication to providing quality auto parts.
By 1961, O’Reilly Automotive’s growth was evident, reaching a volume of $1.3 million, including their newly formed division, O’Reilly Automotive Distributors, serving independent jobbers. The expansion continued, and by March 1975, annual sales reached $7 million. This growth necessitated a larger facility, leading to the construction of a 52,000-square-foot warehouse at 233 S. Patterson for the O’Reilly/Ozark warehouse operation. By this time, O’Reilly Automotive had nine stores, all within southwest Missouri, solidifying their regional presence as a reliable source for auto parts.
The company’s long-term stability and future expansion were further secured with a public offering of stock in April 1993. This marked a new era of growth, fueled by new store openings, strategic mergers, and acquisitions. Today, O’Reilly Auto Parts has expanded far beyond its Missouri roots, operating stores in 48 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. This nationwide presence means that whether you are in Kingman, Arizona, or anywhere across the country, you can rely on the same O’Reilly commitment to quality and service.
Throughout its remarkable journey, O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. has maintained a core philosophy of growth and progress for both the company and its team members. This spirit of continuous improvement and dedication to serving customers remains the driving force behind O’Reilly Auto Parts today. When you search for “o’reilly auto parts kingman car parts,” remember you are connecting with a company built on a legacy of hard work, family values, and a deep understanding of the automotive parts business, ensuring you get the right parts and expertise you need in Kingman and beyond.
