Saint Johnsbury - O'Reilly Automotive, Inc. and Bond Auto Parts, Inc. have entered into a definitive agreement where O'Reilly will purchase substantially all assets of Bond. The Bond Auto Parts store in Saint Johnsbury is one of many Bond stores to included in the purchase by O'Reilly.
Craig Bond is the President of Auto Parts Warehouse for Bond Auto, and said the two companies formed a strong working relationship through the years. “The history of Bond Auto is very similar to that of O’Reilly.” Both Bond and O’Reilly were members of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance buying group for many years.
O’Reilly’s President and CEO Greg Henslee issued a statement, “I would like to welcome the Bond team members to O’Reilly, and we look forward to the opportunities ahead of us as we continue our growth in the Northeast.” However, Henslee isn’t the only one looking forward the opportunities this transaction presents. Kevin Kendall is the Manager of the Bond Auto Parts store and has worked there for 17 years in Saint Johnsbury, and is excited for it. “O’Reilly has been nationwide, 4,600 locations. It would be a good plus for Bond Auto Parts to be part of that network.”
One major impact this combination creates is the possibility for more jobs. Kendall stated they might need to increase hours of operations, which could require more bodies for work. The combination is also beneficial because nobody is supposed to be losing their jobs. “Everybody’s got their job, same positions, the whole nine. They’re going to take care of us.”
Dexter Woods is the District Manager for O’Reilly Auto Parts, and is thrilled the two companies will be working together. “We just want to rest assure, that everyone understands, we are not going to change a thing.” Woods went on to say the goal is for making it better for both parties involved, and they’re not looking to change Bond’s relationship in the community. “We can build a building anywhere, we can put in inventory, but we can’t buy the people.”
Craig Bond stated that he expects the sale to be closed by the end of the year.