Is RockAuto Canadian?

Introduction

RockAuto is a well-known online auto parts retailer that has been in operation since 1999. With its extensive catalog of auto parts and accessories, RockAuto has become a go-to destination for many car enthusiasts and professionals. However, one question that often comes up is whether RockAuto is a Canadian company. In this article, we will explore the origins and ownership of RockAuto to answer this question once and for all.

The Beginnings of RockAuto

RockAuto was founded by Jim and Tom Taylor, two brothers who were frustrated by the limited availability of quality auto parts in their hometown of Madison, Wisconsin. In 1999, they decided to launch an online store to provide customers with a wider variety of products at competitive prices. The duo initially named their venture "RPK Industries," but later changed it to "RockAuto" to better reflect their focus on providing quality auto parts to customers.

Ownership of RockAuto

While RockAuto was founded by two Americans, its ownership has since changed hands. Today, RockAuto is owned by Canada-based company, Canada-based catalog retailer, The Woodbridge Company. The Woodbridge Company is a private investment firm that is owned by the wealthy Canadian billionaire family, the Thomsons.

Who are the Thomsons?

The Thomson family is one of the wealthiest families in Canada, with Forbes estimating their net worth to be $37.6 billion USD as of 2021. The family''s wealth comes largely from their ownership of Thomson Reuters, a multinational media conglomerate that provides business information services to companies and individuals around the world.

The Thomson family is known for its philanthropy, and has donated millions of dollars to various causes over the years. In 2006, the family donated $100 million to the Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation, which was the largest gift to a Canadian hospital at the time. The Thomsons also donated $50 million to the University of Cambridge in 2016, which was the largest donation that the university had ever received.

RockAuto in Canada

While RockAuto is not a Canadian company, it does have a significant presence in Canada. The company has a warehouse and distribution center located in Canada, which allows it to provide faster shipping times and lower shipping costs to Canadian customers.

RockAuto has also partnered with various Canadian auto parts distributors to expand its reach in the Canadian market. These partnerships allow customers in Canada to access RockAuto''s extensive inventory of auto parts and accessories through their local distributors, making it easier for them to find the parts they need for their vehicles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while RockAuto was founded by two Americans, it is now owned by a Canadian investment firm, The Woodbridge Company, which is owned by the wealthy Thomson family. Although RockAuto is not a Canadian company, it does have a significant presence in Canada with a warehouse and distribution center, as well as partnerships with Canadian auto parts distributors. So, while RockAuto may not be Canadian in origin, Canadians can rest assured that they have easy access to the company''s extensive inventory and competitive prices.