Pep Boys has closed its only location in Maine, at 305 Center St. in Auburn, without explanation. A communications firm speaking on behalf of Pep Boys would only say the store closed in October.
The closure appears to be part of a national strategy to exit the retail auto parts business and focus entirely on its service and tire installation offerings.
Pep Boys was acquired by the Icahn Automotive Group in 2016 and began phasing out its parts stores in 2021. Just days after he was named Pep Boys chief executive officer on Feb. 27, 2025, Joe Auriemma said the change was necessary for the company’s long-term success.
“Over the next several years, we plan to actively invest in opening new locations with attractive growth potential, while simultaneously closing our low and underperforming locations.”
A Sun Journal story dated July 12, 1997, reported that Pep Boys confirmed it was bringing a “supercenter” to Center Street in Auburn, while another article dated Oct. 14, 1997, reported that the Auburn Planning Board had approved plans for the 22,000-square-foot Pep Boys at the former site of Grossman’s Hardware.
The Buzz offers quick hits about trending area business happenings. Have a Buzzable tip? Contact business writer Christopher Wheelock at 689-2817 or [email protected]
We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is found on our FAQs. You can modify your screen name here.
Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve.
Join the Conversation
Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.