General Parts, Inc.'s (GPI) humble North Carolina beginnings served as a solid basis for a business that would become a great force within the competitive automotive aftermarket industry. In 1960, the entrepreneurial spirit of O. Temple Sloan, Jr. created the foundation for the company that spans North America, meeting the needs of both the American and Canadian public and professional markets. GPI began in a Raleigh warehouse distributing parts from a mere 13 product lines. Sloan Jr. often worked there, rather than simply ...
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General Parts, Inc.'s (GPI) humble North Carolina beginnings served as a solid basis for a business that would become a great force within the competitive automotive aftermarket industry. In 1960, the entrepreneurial spirit of O. Temple Sloan, Jr. created the foundation for the company that spans North America, meeting the needs of both the American and Canadian public and professional markets. GPI began in a Raleigh warehouse distributing parts from a mere 13 product lines. Sloan Jr. often worked there, rather than simply sitting in his office behind his desk. This hands-on approach helped to establish the company's reputation as one that demanded the same work ethic and product knowledge for all its employees. During the next few decades, GPI's ability to adapt its business style to the changing automotive market catapulted it to the forefront of the industry. As competition intensified, GPI faced the challenge and rolled out a unique plan. The result was the creation of CARQUEST, a recognizable marketing program that reached all customers in the aftermarket. This book chronicles the history of GPI, a company that continually supports the idea that the contributions of all are integral to its continued success.
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