AutoZone 1999 Annual Report Download - page 35

Yes, our customer service, our quality parts and our
innovative stores propelled us into the lead in the parts
business. But we have a secret weapon. A silent
partner, if you will. Memphis.
Our store support center overlooks the mighty
Mississippi, the original path for AmericaÕs distribution.
Today, we trust the rails, the highways and the skies for
moving AmericaÕs goods from manufacturer to
customer. And Memphis is where they converge Ð the
distribution capital of the free world. ThatÕs probably
why FedEx decided to hang out its shingle here 25
years ago.
But thereÕs more to Memphis than world-class
distribution systems. Our distinction of being the
birthplace of rock Ôn roll guarantees beehives and blue
suede shoes to beat the band during ElvisÕ birthday
week. And the music thing doesnÕt stop at rock Ôn roll.
The blues heard on Beale Street are famous the world
over. Does the name BB King ring a bell? In addition to
blues so blue they make ElvisÕ shoes look pale, BBÕs
club serves up the best fried dill pickles youÕll ever sink
your teeth into. Ribs (pork ribs, for you out-of-
towners) are also a strong suit. WeÕre the home of the
National Civil Rights Museum and the worldÕs premier
pediatric oncology research center Ð St. Jude
ChildrenÕs Research Hospital.
AutoZone draws its strength from this cultural base,
but topping the list is the hospitality for which our
region is known. Treating our customers like friends
came naturally for us when we opened our first store,
and 20 years later itÕs still the right thing to do.