You Know the Name—But Did You Know It Started in Philly?
Celebrating its 104th Founders Day—a milestone that reflects both its history and its future—automotive service provider Pep Boys started in Philadelphia and has grown to be a nationwide household name. CEO Joe Auriemma discusses how the company still upholds the vision of founders’ Manny, Moe and Jack.
How did Pep Boys get started?
Pep Boys is a trusted name in automotive service with over a century of history. It all started right here in Philadelphia in 1921, when three Navy veterans—Manny (Emanuel Rosenfeld), Moe (Maurice Strauss) and Jack (W. Graham Jackson)— opened their first store with a mission rooted in service, reliability and trust. What began as a modest auto parts and service shop has grown into a national brand, but our commitment to those same core values remains unchanged.
What is your connection to Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is where it all began for us. This city shaped the way we do business— with grit, determination and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. The energy, diversity and work ethic of Philly have always inspired us. Our founders were born of service, and they built Pep Boys in a city known for its resilience and strong sense of community.
What is one thing that Philadelphians would be surprised to know about Pep Boys?
One thing many people may not realize is that automotive service has been part of Pep Boys’ DNA since the 1940s —and in recent years, it has become our primary focus. It’s what we specialize in, and it’s where we continue to invest to meet the needs of today’s drivers and businesses. From oil changes and brake repairs to diagnostics and more complex work, our skilled technicians are dedicated to keeping families safe, fleets running efficiently and vehicles on the road. This evolution reflects our continued commitment to the needs of modern drivers—both individual and commercial—while staying true to our legacy. That’s why we’re proudly bringing our iconic founders, Manny, Moe and Jack, back into our branding. They’re more than just familiar faces; They’re a timeless reminder of where we started and the values that have guided us for over a century.
What goals have you set moving forward?
As we look ahead, we’re focused on growing our automotive service business and delivering even more value to customers. As always, we’re committed to evolving while staying true to our roots because the road ahead is just as important as the one behind us.
