AutoZone Expects Third Quarter EPS of $.50, Up 28%

May 15, 2000

MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 15 /PRNewswire/ -- AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE: AZO) today reported sales for the quarter ended May 6, 2000, of $1.06 billion, an increase of 9% over sales of $970 million in the prior year third quarter. Same store sales, or sales for domestic auto parts stores open at least one year, increased 6% for the quarter.

The company expects to report third quarter net income of approximately $67 million, or $.50 per share. Prior year net income was $58.7 million, or $.39 per share.

During the quarter, AutoZone opened 17 new and replaced 3 auto parts stores in the U.S. and opened 2 stores in Mexico. Fiscal year-to-date, AutoZone has opened 145 new auto parts stores in the U.S. and 7 in Mexico, replaced 19 stores, and closed 2 former Chief stores. In addition, AutoZone opened 1 new and 1 replacement TruckPro store during the quarter, for year-to-date totals of 2 new stores and 4 replacements.

AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals and accessories through 2,854 AutoZone stores in 41 states plus the District of Columbia in the U.S. and 13 AutoZone stores in Mexico. AutoZone also sells heavy-duty truck parts through 48 TruckPro stores in 15 states, and automotive diagnostic and repair software through ALLDATA and diagnostic and repair information through http://www.alldatadiy.com .

The information in this press release regarding expected net income and earnings per share is forward-looking and preliminary in nature. This information reflects the company's current beliefs and estimates. The preliminary expectations may be adjusted if estimates differ from actual results. SOURCE AutoZone, Inc.

CONTACT: Media, Eric Epperson, 901-495-7307, or Investor Relations, Emma Jo Kauffman, 901-495-7005, both of AutoZone/