AutoNation was founded in 1996 by H. Wayne Huizenga as the automotive retail arm of Republic Industries, growing through rapid dealership acquisitions across the United States.
The company operates over 300 dealerships and employs approximately 27,000 people, serving millions of car buyers nationwide each year.
AutoNation is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and currently lists on the NYSE under ticker AN.
About AutoNation
Sector
Consumer Discretionary
Industry
Automotive Retail
CEO
Mike Manley
Website
Headquarters
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Founded
1996
Status
Public (NYSE: AN)
AutoNation Founders
H. Wayne Huizenga
Founder & Chairman
Steve Berrard
Co-Founder & First CEO
AutoNation History
1996
H. Wayne Huizenga launched AutoNation as the automotive retail division of Republic Industries, starting with twelve locations.
1998
Republic Industries spun off its waste management unit and formally rebranded the parent company as AutoNation, Inc.
1999
Mike Jackson was appointed CEO; 23 unprofitable used-car megastores were closed, refocusing the business on new-vehicle franchises.
2011
AutoNation sold its 8 millionth vehicle, becoming the first U.S. automotive retailer to reach that milestone.
2021
Mike Manley succeeded Jackson as CEO; AutoNation secured naming rights for Inter Miami CF's stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
FAQs
Who owns AutoNation?
AutoNation is a publicly traded company listed on the NYSE under ticker AN. Its largest shareholders are institutional investors, including Vanguard Group and BlackRock. No single individual holds majority ownership.
Is AutoNation an American company?
Yes. AutoNation is an American company founded in 1996 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It operates exclusively in the United States and is incorporated in Delaware.
When did AutoNation come out?
AutoNation was established in 1996 as the automotive retail division of Republic Industries. The parent company was officially renamed AutoNation, Inc. in 1998 after divesting its other business units.
Who made the AutoNation logo?
The specific design agency behind the AutoNation logo is not publicly documented. The current logo, featuring a stylized "A" with a road-line motif, was adopted as part of the company's broader brand identity.