O'Reilly Automotive opens Virginia distribution center

Springfield-based auto parts retailer O'Reilly Automotive Inc. (Nasdaq: ORLY) has opened a new distribution center.

The 550,000-square-foot distribution center in Stafford County, Virginia, debuted this month, according to a Dec. 19 news release. The cost of the facility was not disclosed in the release.

“This new (distribution center) is an important step in serving more people in this area of the country,” said Brent Kirby, president of O’Reilly Automotive, in the release. "We want to ensure they always experience our unmatched auto parts availability. If a retail customer is in the middle of fixing their car – or a professional customer is making a repair for their client – we know having the right parts when you need them is essential.”

The distribution center employs more than 225 people, according to the release, with room for additional positions.

O'Reilly Automotive now operates 32 large-scale distribution centers in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with one located in Puerto Rico. Work is underway on an expanded distribution center in Lakeland, Florida, and a new facility in Fort Worth, Texas, according to the release.

“This is our latest step in providing the best service to more people in more places," CEO Brad Beckham said in the release.

In the third quarter, O'Reilly Automotive reported net income of $725.9 million, a 9.1% increase from $665.5 million a year earlier, according to past reporting. 

ORLY shares were trading at $91.39 as of 9:17 a.m., compared with a 52-week range of $78.83 to $108.72 per share.