Biggest changeRisks Related To Our Use Of Technology ● We depend on search engines and other online sources to attract visitors to our websites and marketplace channels, and the ability to attract and convert them into customers in a cost-effective manner. ● We rely on bandwidth and data center providers, and any failure or interruption in the services provided could disrupt our business and cause us to lose customers. ● Security threats, such as ransomware attacks, to our IT infrastructure could expose us to liability, business interruption and significant damages, and may damage our reputation and business. ● Dependence on open-source software could expose us to uncertainty and potential liability. ● System failures could prevent access to our websites which could reduce our net sales and harm our reputation. ● Problems with the design, updating, integration or implementation of our IT systems could interfere with our business and operations. ● Inability to respond to technological change causing our websites to become obsolete. ● Use of social media may adversely impact our reputation or subject us to fines or other penalties.
Biggest changeRisks Related To Our Use Of Technology ● We depend on search engines and other online sources to attract visitors to our websites and marketplace channels, and the ability to attract and convert them into customers in a cost-effective manner. ● We rely on bandwidth and data center providers, and any failure or interruption in the services provided could disrupt our business and cause us to lose customers. ● Security threats, such as ransomware attacks, to our IT infrastructure could expose us to liability, business interruption and significant damages, and may damage our reputation and business. ● Dependence on open-source software could expose us to uncertainty and potential liability. ● System failures could prevent access to our websites which could reduce our net sales and harm our reputation. ● Problems with the design, updating, integration or implementation of our IT systems could interfere with our business and operations. ● Inability to respond to technological change causing our websites to become obsolete. ● Use of social media may adversely impact our reputation or subject us to fines or other penalties. 7 Table of Contents Risks Related To Our Capital Stock ● Our common stock price may continue to be volatile, which may result in losses to our stockholders. ● Our future operating results may fluctuate and may fail to meet market expectations. ● Failure to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting or comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 could cause our stock price to decline. ● Our charter documents could deter a takeover effort, which could inhibit your ability to receive an acquisition premium for your shares. ● We do not intend to pay dividends on our common stock. ● We cannot guarantee that our share repurchase program will enhance shareholder value and share repurchases could affect the price of our common stock. ● Future capital raises may dilute our existing stockholders’ ownership. ● We are required to meet the Nasdaq Global Market’s continued listing requirements.
The factors that could cause our operating results to continue to fluctuate include, but are not limited to: ● fluctuations in the demand for aftermarket auto parts; ● fluctuations in the availability of products for resale; ● price competition on the Internet or among offline retailers for auto parts; ● our ability to attract visitors to our websites and convert those visitors into customers, including to the extent based on our ability to successfully work with different search engines to drive visitors to our websites; ● our ability to successfully sell our products through third-party online marketplaces or the effects of any price increases in those marketplaces; ● competition from companies that have longer operating histories, larger customer bases, greater brand recognition, access to merchandise at lower costs and significantly greater resources than we do, like third-party online market places and our suppliers; 25 Table of Contents ● our ability to maintain and expand our supplier and distribution relationships without significant price increases or reduced service levels; ● our ability to borrow funds under our Credit Facility; ● the effects of seasonality on the demand for our products; ● our ability to accurately forecast demand for our products, price our products at market rates and maintain appropriate inventory levels; ● our ability to build and maintain customer loyalty; ● our ability to successfully integrate our acquisitions; ● infringement actions that could impact the viability of the auto parts aftermarket or portions thereof; ● the success of our brand-building and marketing campaigns; ● our ability to accurately project our future revenues, earnings, and results of operations; ● government regulations related to use of the Internet for commerce, including the application of existing tax regulations to Internet commerce and changes in tax regulations; ● technical difficulties, system downtime or Internet brownouts; ● the amount and timing of operating costs and capital expenditures relating to expansion of our business, operations and infrastructure; and ● macroeconomic conditions that adversely impact the general and automotive retail sales environment.
The factors that could cause our operating results to continue to fluctuate include, but are not limited to: ● fluctuations in the demand for aftermarket auto parts; ● fluctuations in the availability of products for resale; ● price competition on the Internet or among offline retailers for auto parts; ● our ability to attract visitors to our websites and convert those visitors into customers, including to the extent based on our ability to successfully work with different search engines to drive visitors to our websites; ● our ability to successfully sell our products through third-party online marketplaces or the effects of any price increases in those marketplaces; ● competition from companies that have longer operating histories, larger customer bases, greater brand recognition, access to merchandise at lower costs and significantly greater resources than we do, like third-party online market places and our suppliers; ● our ability to maintain and expand our supplier and distribution relationships without significant price increases or reduced service levels; ● our ability to borrow funds under our Credit Facility; ● the effects of seasonality on the demand for our products; ● our ability to accurately forecast demand for our products, price our products at market rates and maintain appropriate inventory levels; 27 Table of Contents ● our ability to build and maintain customer loyalty; ● our ability to successfully integrate our acquisitions; ● infringement actions that could impact the viability of the auto parts aftermarket or portions thereof; ● the success of our brand-building and marketing campaigns; ● our ability to accurately project our future revenues, earnings, and results of operations; ● government regulations related to use of the Internet for commerce, including the application of existing tax regulations to Internet commerce and changes in tax regulations; ● technical difficulties, system downtime or Internet brownouts; ● the amount and timing of operating costs and capital expenditures relating to expansion of our business, operations and infrastructure; and ● macroeconomic conditions that adversely impact the general and automotive retail sales environment.
Additionally, if we are unable to successfully implement any new IT system, remediate, update or integrate our existing systems at times when necessary, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted. If we do not respond to technological change, our websites could become obsolete and our financial results and conditions could be adversely affected.
Additionally, if we are unable to successfully maintain or implement any new IT system, remediate, update or integrate our existing systems at times when necessary, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted. If we do not respond to technological change, our websites could become obsolete and our financial results and conditions could be adversely affected.
In declining economies, consumers often defer regular vehicle maintenance and may forego purchases of nonessential performance and accessories products, which can result in a decrease in demand for auto parts in general. Consumers also defer purchases of new vehicles, which immediately impacts performance parts and accessories, which are generally purchased in the first six months of a vehicle’s lifespan.
In declining economies, consumers often defer regular vehicle maintenance and may forego purchases of nonessential performance and accessories products, which can result in a decrease in demand for auto parts in general. Consumers also defer purchases of new vehicles, which immediately impacts other parts and accessories, which are generally purchased in the first six months of a vehicle’s lifespan.
Such provisions include the following: ● our Board of Directors are authorized, without prior stockholder approval, to create and issue preferred stock which could be used to implement anti-takeover devices; ● advance notice is required for director nominations or for proposals that can be acted upon at stockholder meetings; ● stockholder and stockholder nominees for director are required to provide detailed information, regarding both the relevant stockholder and nominee, in connection with stockholder nominations for director; ● our Board of Directors is classified such that not all members of our board are elected at one time, which may make it more difficult for a person who acquires control of a majority of our outstanding voting stock to replace all or a majority of our directors; ● stockholder action by written consent is prohibited except with regards to an action that has been approved by the Board of Directors; ● special meetings of the stockholders are permitted to be called only by the chairman of our Board of Directors or by a majority of our Board of Directors; ● stockholders are not permitted to cumulate their votes for the election of directors; and ● stockholders are permitted to amend certain provisions of our bylaws only upon receiving at least 66 2/3% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of all outstanding shares then entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class.
Such provisions include the following: ● our Board of Directors are authorized, without prior stockholder approval, to create and issue preferred stock which could be used to implement anti-takeover devices; ● advance notice is required for director nominations or for proposals that can be acted upon at stockholder meetings; ● stockholder and stockholder nominees for director are required to provide detailed information, regarding both the relevant stockholder and nominee, in connection with stockholder nominations for director; ● our Board of Directors is classified such that not all members of our board are elected at one time, which may make it more difficult for a person who acquires control of a majority of our outstanding voting stock to replace all or a majority of our directors; 28 Table of Contents ● stockholder action by written consent is prohibited except with regards to an action that has been approved by the Board of Directors; ● special meetings of the stockholders are permitted to be called only by the chairman of our Board of Directors or by a majority of our Board of Directors; ● stockholders are not permitted to cumulate their votes for the election of directors; and ● stockholders are permitted to amend certain provisions of our bylaws only upon receiving at least 66 2/3% of the votes entitled to be cast by holders of all outstanding shares then entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class.
A failure, or perceived failure, to respond to investor or customer expectations related to ESG concerns could impact the value of our brand, the cost of our operations or relationships with investors, all of which could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Additionally, new regulatory initiatives related to ESG matters could adversely affect our business.
A failure, or perceived failure, to respond to investor, employee or customer expectations related to ESG concerns could impact the value of our brand, the cost of our operations or relationships with investors, all of which could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Additionally, new regulatory initiatives related to ESG matters could adversely affect our business.
Regulatory And Litigation Risks ● Possible new tariffs that might be imposed by the United States government. ● We face exposure to product liability lawsuits. ● Failure to comply with privacy laws and regulations and failure to adequately protect customer data. ● The regulatory framework is constantly evolving, and privacy concerns could adversely affect our business. ● Challenges by OEMs to the validity of the auto parts industry and claims of intellectual property infringement. ● Inability to protect our intellectual property rights. ● We could incur substantial judgments, fines, legal fees and other costs relating to litigation matters or certain laws and governmental regulations. ● Changes in tax laws or regulations that are applied adversely to us or our customers. ● Existing or future government regulation could expose us to liabilities and costly changes in our business. ● We may be affected by global climate change or by legal, regulatory, or market responses to such change. ● Potential impact from future regulation related to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters.
Regulatory And Litigation Risks ● Tariffs and other restrictions imposed by the United States government. ● We face exposure to product liability lawsuits. ● Failure to comply with privacy laws and regulations and failure to adequately protect customer data. ● The regulatory framework is constantly evolving, and privacy concerns could adversely affect our business. ● Challenges by OEMs to the validity of the auto parts industry and claims of intellectual property infringement. ● Inability to protect our intellectual property rights. ● We could incur substantial judgments, fines, legal fees and other costs relating to litigation matters or certain laws and governmental regulations. ● Changes in tax laws or regulations that are applied adversely to us or our customers. ● Existing or future government regulation could expose us to liabilities and costly changes in our business. ● We may be affected by global climate change or by legal, regulatory, or market responses to such change. ● Potential impact from future regulation related to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters.
These risks are discussed in more detail below and include, but are not limited to, risks related to the following: Risks Related To Our Operations ● We are dependent upon relationships with suppliers in Taiwan and China for the majority of our products. ● We depend on third-party delivery services, both inbound and outbound, to deliver our products to our distribution centers and customers, and any increases in the fees could adversely affect our financial condition. ● Higher wage costs due to changes in federal and state minimum wage laws could adversely affect our business. ● If commodity prices such as fuel, plastic and steel increase, our margins may be negatively impacted. ● Purchasers of aftermarket auto parts may not choose to shop online. ● Shifting online consumer behavior of purchasers of aftermarket auto parts. ● If hosts of third-party marketplaces limit our access, we could lose a substantial portion of our revenues. ● In the future, our business could be affected by the effects from a prolonged COVID-19 outbreak or another pandemic. ● During fiscal year 2023, we recorded a net loss, and it is possible that net losses could continue in the future. ● Our operations are restricted by our credit agreement, and our ability to borrow funds under our credit facility is subject to a borrowing base. ● If our assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings. ● We are highly dependent upon key suppliers. ● Inability to manage the challenges associated with our international operations. ● If our fulfillment operations are interrupted for any significant period of time, our sales could decline. ● We face intense competition and operate in an industry with limited barriers to entry. ● Failure to offer a broad selection of products at competitive prices or to maintain sufficient inventory. ● We rely on key personnel and may need additional personnel for the success and growth of our business. ● As a result of our international operations, we have foreign exchange risk. ● Our product catalog database could be stolen, misappropriated or damaged, or a competitor might create a substantially similar catalog without infringing our rights. 6 Table of Contents ● Economic conditions have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on the demand for aftermarket auto parts and could adversely affect our sales and operating results. ● The seasonality of our business places increased strain on our operations. ● Vehicle miles driven have fluctuated and may decrease. ● We may be required to collect and pay more sales taxes, and possibly for other fees and penalties. ● Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards to offset future income may be limited. ● Our estimate of the size of our addressable market may prove to be inaccurate.
These risks are discussed in more detail below and include, but are not limited to, risks related to the following: Risks Related To Our Operations ● We are dependent upon relationships with suppliers in Taiwan and China for the majority of our products. ● Our preliminary exploration of potential strategic alternatives, announced on March 5, 2025, may not be successful. ● We depend on third-party delivery services, both inbound and outbound, to deliver our products to our distribution centers and customers, and any increases in the fees could adversely affect our financial condition. ● Higher wage costs due to changes in federal and state minimum wage laws could adversely affect our business. ● If commodity prices such as fuel, plastic and steel increase, our margins may be negatively impacted. ● Purchasers of aftermarket auto parts may not choose to shop online. ● Shifting online consumer behavior of purchasers of aftermarket auto parts. ● If hosts of third-party marketplaces limit our access, we could lose a substantial portion of our revenues. ● During fiscal year 2024, we recorded a net loss, and it is possible that net losses could continue in the future. ● Our operations are restricted by our Credit Agreement, and our ability to borrow funds under our Credit Facility is subject to a borrowing base. ● If our assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings. ● We are highly dependent upon key suppliers. ● Inability to manage the challenges associated with our international operations. ● If our fulfillment operations are interrupted for any significant period of time, our sales could decline. ● We face intense competition and operate in an industry with limited barriers to entry. ● Failure to offer a broad selection of products at competitive prices or to maintain sufficient inventory. ● We rely on key personnel and may need additional personnel for the success and growth of our business. ● In the future, our business could be adversely affected by the effects from a prolonged COVID-19 outbreak or another pandemic. 6 Table of Contents ● As a result of our international operations, we have foreign exchange risk. ● Our product catalog database could be stolen, misappropriated or damaged, or a competitor might create a substantially similar catalog without infringing our rights. ● Economic conditions have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on the demand for aftermarket auto parts and could adversely affect our sales and operating results. ● The seasonality of our business places increased strain on our operations. ● Vehicle miles driven have fluctuated and may decrease. ● We may be required to collect and pay more sales taxes, and possibly for other fees and penalties. ● Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards to offset future income may be limited. ● Our estimate of the size of our addressable market may prove to be inaccurate.
Some observers have noted that the CCPA could mark the beginning of a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the U.S., which could increase our potential liability and adversely affect our business. Challenges by OEMs to the validity of the aftermarket auto parts industry and claims of intellectual property infringement could adversely affect our business and the viability of the aftermarket auto parts industry.
Some observers have noted that the CCPA could mark the beginning of a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the U.S., which could increase our potential liability and adversely affect our business. 20 Table of Contents Challenges by OEMs to the validity of the aftermarket auto parts industry and claims of intellectual property infringement could adversely affect our business and the viability of the aftermarket auto parts industry.
Our Credit Facility also provides for an option to increase the aggregate principal amount from 11 Table of Contents $75,000 to $150,000, subject to certain terms and conditions. Our credit agreement with JPMorgan originally entered into on April 26, 2012 (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”) includes a number of restrictive covenants.
Our Credit Facility also provides for an option to increase the aggregate principal amount from $75,000 to $150,000, subject to certain terms and conditions. Our credit agreement with JPMorgan originally entered into on April 26, 2012 (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”) includes a number of restrictive covenants.
In particular, we rely on Google as an 21 Table of Contents important marketing channel, and if Google changes its algorithms or if competition increases for advertisements on Google or on our marketplace channels, we may be unable to cost-effectively attract customers to our products. Our agreements with our marketing providers generally have terms of one year or less.
In particular, we rely on Google as an important marketing channel, and if Google changes its algorithms or if competition increases for advertisements on Google or on our marketplace channels, we may be unable to cost-effectively attract customers to our products. Our agreements with our marketing providers generally have terms of one year or less.
Specific factors that could discourage or prevent prospective customers from purchasing from us include: ● concerns about buying auto parts without face-to-face interaction with sales personnel; ● the inability to physically handle, examine and compare products; ● delivery time associated with Internet orders; ● concerns about the security of online transactions and the privacy of personal information; ● delayed shipments or shipments of incorrect or damaged products; ● increased shipping costs; and ● the inconvenience associated with returning or exchanging items purchased online.
Specific factors that could discourage or prevent prospective customers from purchasing from us include: ● concerns about buying auto parts without face-to-face interaction with sales personnel; ● increased desire to purchase American-made products; ● the inability to physically handle, examine and compare products; ● delivery time associated with Internet orders; ● concerns about the security of online transactions and the privacy of personal information; ● delayed shipments or shipments of incorrect or damaged products; ● increased shipping costs; and ● the inconvenience associated with returning or exchanging items purchased online.
If further tariffs are imposed on imports of our products, or retaliatory trade measures are taken by China or other countries in response to existing or future tariffs, we could be forced to raise prices on all of our imported products or make changes to our operations, any of which could materially harm our revenue or operating results.
If further tariffs are imposed on imports of our products, or retaliatory trade measures 19 Table of Contents are taken by China or other countries in response to existing or future tariffs, we could be forced to raise prices on all of our imported products or make changes to our operations, any of which could materially harm our revenue or operating results.
If these strategies are not successful, our operating results and financial conditions could be materially and adversely affected. If we fail to offer a broad selection of products at competitive prices or fail to maintain sufficient inventory to meet customer demands, our revenue could decline.
If these strategies are not successful, our operating results and financial conditions could be materially and adversely affected. 16 Table of Contents If we fail to offer a broad selection of products at competitive prices or fail to maintain sufficient inventory to meet customer demands, our revenue could decline.
We also currently own or control a number of Internet domain names, including www.carparts.com , www.jcwhitney.com , www.autopartswarehouse.com and www.usautoparts.com , and have invested time and money in the purchase of domain names and other intellectual property, which may be impaired if we cannot protect such intellectual property.
We also currently own or control a number of Internet domain names, including www.carparts.com , www.jcwhitney.com , www.autopartswarehouse.com and www.usautoparts.com , and have invested time and money in the purchase of domain names and other intellectual property, including the development of our app, which may be impaired if we cannot protect such intellectual property.
In addition, we have and post on our websites our own privacy policies and practices concerning the 18 Table of Contents collection, use and disclosure of customer data. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to comply with our posted privacy policies or with any data-related consent orders, U.S.
In addition, we have and post on our websites our own privacy policies and practices concerning the collection, use and disclosure of customer data. Any failure, or perceived failure, by us to comply with our posted privacy policies or with any data-related consent orders, U.S.
If we are unable to continue to adapt our mobile device shopping experience from desktop based online shopping 10 Table of Contents in ways that improve our customer’s mobile experience and increase the engagement of our mobile customers our sales may decline and our business and financial results may suffer.
If we are unable to continue to adapt our mobile device shopping experience from desktop based online shopping in ways that improve our customer’s mobile experience and increase the engagement of our mobile customers our sales may decline and our business and financial results may suffer.
Our relationships with our third-party marketplace providers could deteriorate as a result of a variety of factors, such as if they become concerned about our ability to deliver quality products on a timely basis or to protect a third-party’s intellectual property.
Our relationships with our third-party marketplace providers 11 Table of Contents could deteriorate as a result of a variety of factors, such as if they become concerned about our ability to deliver quality products on a timely basis or to protect a third-party’s intellectual property.
We review our long-lived assets for impairment annually, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors that may be considered are changes in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our assets may not be recoverable include a decrease in future cash flows.
We review our long-lived assets for impairment annually, or when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors that may be considered are changes in circumstances indicating that the carrying value of our assets may not be fully recoverable, including a decrease in future cash flows.
Any Internet network interruptions or problems with our websites could: ● prevent customers from accessing our websites; ● reduce our ability to fulfill orders or bill customers; ● reduce the number of products that we sell; ● cause customer dissatisfaction; or 23 Table of Contents ● damage our brand and reputation.
Any Internet network interruptions or problems with our websites could: ● prevent customers from accessing our websites; ● reduce our ability to fulfill orders or bill customers; ● reduce the number of products that we sell; ● cause customer dissatisfaction; or ● damage our brand and reputation.
In the event that components of the borrowing base are adversely affected for any reason, including adverse market conditions or downturns in general economic conditions, we could be restricted in the amount of funds we can borrow under the Credit Facility.
In the event that components of the borrowing base are adversely affected for any reason, including adverse market conditions or downturns in general economic conditions, we could be restricted in the amount 12 Table of Contents of funds we can borrow under the Credit Facility.
While management has concluded that our internal controls over financial reporting were effective as of December 30, 2023, we have in the past identified, and could in the future identify, a significant deficiency or material weakness in internal control over financial reporting or fail to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
While management has concluded that our internal controls over financial reporting were effective as of December 28, 2024, we have in the past identified, and could in the future identify, a significant deficiency or material weakness in internal control over financial reporting or fail to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
We cannot be certain that all of our information technology systems are able to prevent, contain or detect any cyber-attacks, cyber terrorism, or security breaches from known malware or malware that may be developed in the future.
We cannot be certain that all of our 24 Table of Contents information technology systems are able to prevent, contain or detect any cyber-attacks, cyber terrorism, or security breaches from known malware or malware that may be developed in the future.
Since the completion of our initial public offering in February 2007 through December 30, 2023, the trading price of our common stock has been volatile. We have also experienced significant fluctuations in the trading volume of our common stock. General economic and political conditions unrelated to our performance may also adversely affect the price of our common stock.
Since the completion of our initial public offering in February 2007 through December 28, 2024, the trading price of our common stock has been volatile. We have also experienced significant fluctuations in the trading volume of our common stock. General economic and political conditions unrelated to our performance may also adversely affect the price of our common stock.
These warmer weather conditions could result in a decrease in demand for auto parts in general. Moreover, proposals that would impose mandatory requirements on greenhouse gas emissions continue to be considered by policy makers in the United States.
These warmer weather conditions could result in a decrease in demand for auto parts in general. Moreover, proposals that would impose mandatory requirements on greenhouse gas emissions continue to be considered by policy 22 Table of Contents makers in the United States.
We have 15 Table of Contents implemented and will continue to implement several strategies to attempt to overcome the challenges created by our suppliers selling directly to our customers and potential customers, including optimizing our pricing, continuing to increase our mix of house brands products and improving our websites, which may not be successful.
We have implemented and will continue to implement several strategies to attempt to overcome the challenges created by our suppliers selling directly to our customers and potential customers, including optimizing our pricing, selling the complete job, continuing to increase our mix of house brands products and improving our websites, which may not be successful.
In addition, because many of our suppliers are outside of the United States, additional factors could interrupt our relationships or affect our ability to acquire the necessary products on acceptable terms, including: ● political, social and economic instability, and the risk of war or other international incidents in Asia, Europe, or abroad, including, but not limited to, the effects of disputes between China and Taiwan and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; ● fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates that may increase our cost of products; ● imposition of duties, taxes, tariffs or other charges on imports; ● difficulties in complying with import and export laws, regulatory requirements and restrictions; ● natural disasters and public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or other future pandemics, impacting countries from which we purchase product; ● import shipping delays resulting from foreign or domestic labor shortages, slow-downs, or stoppage; and ● the failure of local laws to provide a sufficient degree of protection against infringement of our intellectual property; ● imposition of new legislation relating to import quotas or other restrictions that may limit the quantity of our product that may be imported into the U.S. from countries or regions where we do business; ● financial or political instability in any of the countries in which our product is manufactured; ● potential recalls or cancellations of orders for any product that does not meet our quality standards; ● disruption of imports by labor disputes or strikes and local business practices; 8 Table of Contents ● political or military conflict involving the U.S. or any country in which our suppliers are located, which could cause a delay in the transportation of our products, an increase in transportation costs and additional risk to product being damaged and delivered on time; ● heightened terrorism security concerns, which could subject imported goods to additional, more frequent or more thorough inspections, leading to delays in deliveries or impoundment of goods for extended periods; ● inability of our non-U.S. suppliers to obtain adequate credit or access liquidity to finance their operations; and ● our ability to enforce any agreements with our foreign suppliers.
In addition, because many of our suppliers are outside of the United States, additional factors could interrupt our relationships or affect our ability to acquire the necessary products on acceptable terms, including: ● political, social and economic instability, social unrest, and the risk of war or other international incidents in Asia, Europe, or abroad, including, but not limited to, the effects of disputes between China and Taiwan and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; ● global political changes, including as a result of the change in the U.S. presidential administration; ● deterioration in U.S.-China trade relations, including increased tensions, policy shifts, or regulatory changes, increased tariffs, trade restrictions, or sanctions affecting our supply chain and product imports; ● changes in bilateral agreements between the U.S. and China that could disrupt established supply chains, increase compliance costs, or limit our ability to source products efficiently; ● fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates that may increase our cost of products; ● imposition of duties, taxes, tariffs or other charges on imports; ● difficulties in complying with import and export laws, regulatory requirements and restrictions; ● natural disasters and public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or other future pandemics, impacting countries from which we purchase product; 8 Table of Contents ● import shipping delays resulting from foreign or domestic labor shortages, slow-downs, or stoppage; and ● the failure of local laws to provide a sufficient degree of protection against infringement of our intellectual property; ● imposition of new legislation relating to import quotas or other restrictions that may limit the quantity of our product that may be imported into the U.S. from countries or regions where we do business; ● financial or political instability in any of the countries in which our product is manufactured; ● potential recalls or cancellations of orders for any product that does not meet our quality standards; ● disruption of imports by labor disputes or strikes and local business practices; ● political or military conflict involving the U.S. or any country in which our suppliers or transportation routes for our products are located, which could cause a delay in the transportation of our products, an increase in transportation costs and additional risk to product being damaged and delivered on time; ● heightened terrorism security concerns, which could subject imported goods to additional, more frequent or more thorough inspections, leading to delays in deliveries or impoundment of goods for extended periods; ● inability of our non-U.S. suppliers to obtain adequate credit or access liquidity to finance their operations; and ● our ability to enforce any agreements with our foreign suppliers.
If a successful claim were brought against us, it could expose us to significant liability. 19 Table of Contents If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, our reputation and brand could be impaired and we could lose customers.
If a successful claim were brought against us, it could expose us to significant liability. If we are unable to protect our intellectual property rights, our reputation and brand could be impaired and we could lose customers.
We are highly dependent upon key suppliers and an interruption in such relationships or our ability to obtain parts from such suppliers could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Our top ten suppliers represented approximately 52% of our total product purchases during the fiscal year ended December 30, 2023.
We are highly dependent upon key suppliers and an interruption in such relationships or our ability to obtain parts from such suppliers could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Our top ten suppliers represented approximately 51% of our total product purchases during the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024.
We do not presently have a formal disaster recovery plan in effect and may not have sufficient insurance for losses that may occur from natural disasters or catastrophic events.
We do not presently have a formal disaster recovery plan in effect and may not have sufficient insurance for losses that may occur from natural 25 Table of Contents disasters or catastrophic events.
Additional 20 Table of Contents laws and regulations may be adopted with respect to the Internet, the effect of which on eCommerce is uncertain.
Additional laws and regulations may be adopted with respect to the Internet, the effect of which on eCommerce is uncertain.
For the fiscal year ended December 30, 2023, our product purchases from three drop-ship suppliers 13 Table of Contents represented approximately 11% of our total product purchases. Because we outsource to suppliers a number of these traditional retail functions relating to those products, we have limited control over how and when orders are fulfilled.
For the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024, our product purchases from three drop-ship suppliers represented approximately 13% of our total product purchases. Because we outsource to suppliers a number of these traditional retail functions relating to those products, we have limited control over how and when orders are fulfilled.
If the ERP system does not operate as intended, it could adversely affect our financial reporting systems and our ability to produce financial reports and process transactions.
If the ERP system does not continue to operate as intended, or requires significant updates, it could adversely affect our financial reporting systems and our ability to produce financial reports and process transactions.
Competition for such personnel is intense, and we cannot assure that we will be successful in attracting and retaining such personnel. The loss of any key employee or our inability to attract or retain other qualified employees could harm our business and results of operations. As a result of our international operations, we have foreign exchange risk.
Competition for such personnel is intense, and we cannot assure that we will be successful in attracting and retaining such personnel. The loss of any key employee or our inability to attract or retain other qualified employees could harm our business and results of operations.
Any disruption in the network access or co-location services, which are the services that house and provide Internet access to our servers, provided by these third-party providers or any failure of these third-party providers to handle current or higher volumes of use could significantly harm our business.
We rely on third-party vendors, including data center and bandwidth providers. Any disruption in the network access or co-location services, which are the services that house and provide Internet access to our servers, provided by these third-party providers or any failure of these third-party providers to handle current or higher volumes of use could significantly harm our business.
In the future, our suppliers may limit the amount of credit they are willing to extend to us in connection with our purchase of their products.
Furthermore, as part of our routine business, suppliers extend credit to us in connection with our purchase of their products. In the future, our suppliers may limit the amount of credit they are willing to extend to us in connection with our purchase of their products.
Third-party marketplaces account for a significant portion of our revenues. Our sales on third-party marketplaces (including eBay and Amazon) represented a combined 35.6% of total sales in the fiscal year ended December 30, 2023. We anticipate that sales of our products on third-party marketplaces will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues.
Third-party marketplaces account for a significant portion of our revenues. Our sales on third-party marketplaces (including eBay and Amazon) represented a combined 36.5% of total sales in the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024. We anticipate that sales of our products on third-party marketplaces will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues.
We recently implemented a new enterprise resource planning system in fiscal year 2022, and we may occasionally update or integrate other IT systems. Problems with the design, integration or implementation of these systems could interfere with our business and operations. We recently completed a multi-year implementation of a new global enterprise resource planning system (ERP) in fiscal year 2022.
Problems with the design, integration or implementation of these systems could interfere with our business and operations. We recently completed a multi-year implementation of a new global enterprise resource planning system (ERP) in that was implemented in fiscal year 2022.
The existence of any such deficiencies or weaknesses, even if remediated, may also lead to the loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements, could harm our business and negatively impact the trading price of our common stock.
The existence of any such deficiencies or weaknesses, even if remediated, may also lead to the loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements, could harm our business and negatively impact the trading price of our common stock. Such deficiencies or material weaknesses may also subject us to lawsuits, regulatory investigations and other penalties.
We depend on third-party delivery services, for both inbound and outbound shipping, to deliver our products to our distribution centers and subsequently to our customers on a timely and consistent basis, and any deterioration in our relationship with any one of these third parties or increases in the fees that they charge could harm our reputation and adversely affect our business and financial condition.
Such alternatives may materially adversely affect the value of our business and the trading price of our common stock. 9 Table of Contents We depend on third-party delivery services, for both inbound and outbound shipping, to deliver our products to our distribution centers and subsequently to our customers on a timely and consistent basis, and any deterioration in our relationship with any one of these third parties or increases in the fees that they charge could harm our reputation and adversely affect our business and financial condition.
The Company’s outstanding letters of credit balance as of December 30, 2023 was $680, and we had $0 of our trade letters of credit outstanding in accounts payable in our consolidated balance sheet. If our assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings.
The Company’s outstanding letters of credit balance as of December 28, 2024 was $680, and we had $0 of our trade letters of credit outstanding in accounts payable in our consolidated balance sheet. 13 Table of Contents If our long-lived assets become impaired, we may be required to record a significant charge to earnings.
We sell aftermarket auto parts consisting of replacement parts, hard parts, and performance parts. Demand for our products has been and may continue to be adversely affected by general economic conditions, unemployment levels, inflation, rising interest rates from the U.S. Federal Reserve as a response to inflation, or other heightened cost pressures on consumers.
Demand for our products has been and may continue to be adversely affected by general economic conditions, consumer sentiment, unemployment levels, inflation, rising interest rates from the U.S. Federal Reserve as a response to inflation, or other heightened cost pressures on consumers.
We also use social media platforms as marketing tools or as channels to disseminate information. For example, the Company and its executive officers maintain Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media accounts, where marketing and other information relevant to customers and investors is disseminated.
For example, the Company and its executive officers maintain Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media accounts, where marketing and other information relevant to customers and investors is disseminated.
We may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our assets is determined, resulting in an impact on our results of operations.
We may be required to record a significant charge to earnings in our consolidated financial statements during the period in which any impairment of our long-lived assets is determined, which would negatively affect our results of operations.
Similarly, if any free search engine, shopping comparison site, or marketplace site on which we rely begins charging fees for listing or placement, or if one or more of the search engines, shopping comparison sites, marketplace sites and other online sources on which we rely for purchased listings, increases their fees, or modifies or terminates its relationship with us, our expenses could rise, we could lose customers and traffic to our websites could decrease.
Similarly, if any free search engine, shopping comparison site, or marketplace site on which we rely begins charging fees for listing or placement, or if one or more of the search engines, shopping comparison sites, marketplace sites and other online sources on which we rely for purchased listings, increases their fees, or modifies or terminates its relationship with us, our expenses could rise, we could lose customers and traffic to our websites could decrease. 23 Table of Contents We rely on bandwidth and data center providers and other third parties to provide products to our customers, and any failure or interruption in the services provided by these third parties could disrupt our business and cause us to lose customers.
A public health pandemic, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may negatively impact our business, distribution centers, customers, suppliers, employees and third party shipping providers.
A public health pandemic, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, or another pandemic and its effects, potentially could adversely affect future years. A public health pandemic, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may negatively impact our business, distribution centers, customers, suppliers, employees and third-party shipping providers.
Prolonged effects of COVID-19, or a future pandemic, could also potentially disrupt our operations through, but not limited to, shipping container shortages, transportation delays, and changes in our operating procedures, including the need for additional cleaning and safety protocols. During fiscal year 2023, we recorded a net loss, and our net losses may continue in the future.
Prolonged effects of COVID-19, or a future pandemic, could also potentially disrupt our operations through, but not limited to, shipping container shortages, transportation delays, and changes in our operating procedures, including the need for additional cleaning and safety protocols. As a result of our international operations, we have foreign exchange risk.
As laws and regulations rapidly evolve to govern the use of these platforms and devices, the failure by us, our employees or third parties acting at our direction to abide by applicable laws and regulations in the use of these platforms and devices could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations or subject us to fines or other penalties.
As laws and regulations rapidly evolve to govern the use of these platforms and devices, the failure by us, our employees or third parties acting at our direction to abide by applicable laws and regulations in the use of these platforms and devices could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations or subject us to fines or other penalties. 26 Table of Contents Risks Related To Our Capital Stock Our common stock price has been and may continue to be volatile, which may result in losses to our stockholders.
We cannot ensure that we can recover all the increased costs through price increases, and our suppliers may not continue to provide the consistent quality of product as they may substitute lower cost materials to maintain pricing levels, all of which may have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.
We cannot ensure that we can recover all the increased costs through price increases, and our suppliers may not continue to provide the consistent quality of product as they may substitute lower cost materials to maintain pricing levels, all of which may have a negative impact on our business and results of operations. 10 Table of Contents Purchasers of aftermarket auto parts may not choose to shop online, which would prevent us from acquiring new customers who are necessary to the growth of our business.
Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so would be beneficial to our stockholders.
Our charter documents could deter a takeover effort, which could inhibit your ability to receive an acquisition premium for your shares. Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so would be beneficial to our stockholders.
Any additional future tariffs or quotas imposed on our products or related materials may impact our sales, gross margin and profitability if we are unable to pass increased prices onto our customers. We face exposure to product liability lawsuits.
Any additional future tariffs or quotas imposed on our products or related materials may impact our sales, gross margin and profitability if we are unable to pass increased prices onto our customers. Currently, we cannot fully determine how these tariffs will affect our business operations.
We do not presently have a formal disaster recovery plan and our business interruption insurance may be insufficient to compensate us for losses that may occur in the event operations at our fulfillment center are interrupted. In addition, alternative arrangements may not be available, or if they are available, may increase the cost of fulfillment.
We do not currently maintain back-up power systems at our fulfillment centers. We do not presently have a formal disaster recovery plan and our business interruption insurance may be insufficient to compensate us for losses 15 Table of Contents that may occur in the event operations at our fulfillment center are interrupted.
Because we are involved in litigation from time to time and are subject to numerous laws and governmental regulations, we could incur substantial judgments, fines, legal fees and other costs as well as reputational harm. We are sometimes the subject of complaints or litigation from customers, employees or other third parties for various reasons.
If we are not able to protect our trademarks, domain names or other intellectual property, we may experience difficulties in achieving and maintaining brand recognition and customer loyalty. 21 Table of Contents Because we are involved in litigation from time to time and are subject to numerous laws and governmental regulations, we could incur substantial judgments, fines, legal fees and other costs as well as reputational harm. We are sometimes the subject of complaints or litigation from customers, employees or other third parties for various reasons.
Changing carriers could have a negative effect on our business and operating results due to reduced visibility of order status and package tracking and delays in order processing and product delivery, and we may be unable to engage alternative carriers on a timely basis, upon terms favorable to us, or at all. 9 Table of Contents Higher wage costs due to changes in federal and state minimum wage laws, or due to unstable market conditions, could adversely affect our business. Changes in federal and state minimum wage laws and other laws relating to employee benefits could cause us to incur additional wage and benefit costs.
Changing carriers could have a negative effect on our business and operating results due to reduced visibility of order status and package tracking and delays in order processing and product delivery, and we may be unable to engage alternative carriers on a timely basis, upon terms favorable to us, or at all.
In addition, our distribution centers are susceptible to damage or interruption from human error, fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks, acts of war, break-ins, earthquakes and similar events. We do not currently maintain back-up power systems at our fulfillment centers.
If we do not successfully expand our fulfillment capabilities in response to increases in demand, our sales could decline. In addition, our distribution centers are susceptible to damage or interruption from human error, sickness related to a pandemic, fire, flood, power loss, telecommunications failures, terrorist attacks, acts of war, break-ins, earthquakes and similar events.
In the event our product catalog is damaged or is stolen, copied or otherwise replicated to compete with us, whether lawfully or not, we may lose an important competitive advantage and our business could be harmed. 16 Table of Contents Economic conditions have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on the demand for aftermarket auto parts and could adversely affect our sales and operating results.
In the event our product catalog is damaged or is stolen, copied or otherwise replicated to 17 Table of Contents compete with us, whether lawfully or not, we may lose an important competitive advantage and our business could be harmed.
(“JPMorgan”), which under certain circumstances may not be available, sell additional assets or seek additional equity or additional debt financing in the future. In such case, there can be no assurance that we would be able to raise such additional financing or engage in such asset sales on acceptable terms, or at all.
In such case, there can be no assurance that we would be able to raise such additional financing or engage in such asset sales on acceptable terms, or at all.
If successful, any of these attacks could negatively affect our reputation, damage our network infrastructure and our ability to sell our products, harm our relationship with customers that are affected and expose us to financial liability. 22 Table of Contents Given the rapidly evolving nature and proliferation of cyber threats, our internal controls relating to cybersecurity may not prevent or identify all such attacks in a timely manner or otherwise prevent unauthorized access to, damage to, or interruption of our systems and operations, and we cannot eliminate the risk of human error or employee or vendor malfeasance.
Given the rapidly evolving nature and proliferation of cyber threats, our internal controls relating to cybersecurity may not prevent or identify all such attacks in a timely manner or otherwise prevent unauthorized access to, damage to, or interruption of our systems and operations, and we cannot eliminate the risk of human error or employee or vendor malfeasance.
The majority of orders for our auto parts products are filled from our inventory in our distribution centers, where all our inventory management, packaging, labeling and product return processes are performed.
The majority of orders for our auto parts products are filled from our inventory in our distribution centers, where all our inventory management, packaging, labeling and product return processes are performed. Increased demand and other considerations may require us to expand our distribution centers or transfer our fulfillment operations to larger or other facilities in the future.
In January 2024, we were deemed to be PCI compliant by PCI DSS 3.2.1, the new security standards as issued by the PCI Council.
We currently are deemed to be PCI compliant by PCI DSS 4.0.1, the new security standards as issued by the PCI Council.
If our net losses continue in the future, they could severely impact our liquidity, as we may not be able to provide positive cash flows from operations in order to meet our working capital requirements. We may need to borrow additional funds from our asset-based revolving credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
During fiscal year 2024, we recorded a net loss, and our net losses may continue in the future. If our net losses continue in the future, they could severely impact our liquidity, as we may not be able to provide positive cash flows from operations in order to meet our working capital requirements.
There can be no assurance that we would be able to raise such additional financing or engage in such asset sales on acceptable terms, or at all, or that we would be able to modify our existing Credit Agreement. 12 Table of Contents While we did not have any outstanding revolver loan debt under our Credit Agreement as of December 30, 2023, we may have outstanding revolver loan debt in the future.
There can be no assurance that we would be able to raise such additional financing or engage in such asset sales on acceptable terms, or at all, or that we would be able to modify our existing Credit Agreement.
Negative commentary regarding us or the brands that we sell may be posted on social media platforms or similar devices at any time and may harm our reputation or business.
Negative commentary regarding us or the brands that we sell may be posted on social media platforms or similar devices at any time and may harm our reputation or business. Consumers value readily available information concerning retailers and their goods and services and often act on such information without further investigation and without regard to its accuracy.
Risks Related To Our Capital Stock Our common stock price has been and may continue to be volatile, which may result in losses to our stockholders. The market prices of technology and eCommerce companies generally have been extremely volatile and have recently experienced sharp share price and trading volume changes.
The market prices of technology and eCommerce companies generally have been extremely volatile and have recently experienced sharp share price and trading volume changes.
Any inability to offer a broad array of products at competitive prices and any failure to deliver those products to our customers in a timely and accurate manner may damage our reputation and brand and could cause us to lose customers and our sales could decline.
Any inability to offer a broad array of products at competitive prices and any failure to deliver those products to our customers in a timely and accurate manner may damage our reputation and brand and could cause us to lose customers and our sales could decline. 14 Table of Contents In addition, the increasing consolidation among auto parts suppliers may disrupt or end our relationship with some suppliers, result in product shortages and/or lead to less competition and, consequently, higher prices.
In addition, at the state level, there may be periods during which the use of NOL carryforwards is suspended or otherwise limited, which could accelerate or permanently increase state taxes owed.
If any of these events occur, we may not derive some or all of the expected benefits from our NOLs. In addition, at the state level there may be periods during which the use of NOLs is suspended or otherwise limited, which would accelerate or may permanently increase state taxes owed.
We may be unable to protect these domain names or acquire or maintain relevant domain names in the United States and in other countries. If we are not able to protect our trademarks, domain names or other intellectual property, we may experience difficulties in achieving and maintaining brand recognition and customer loyalty.
We may be unable to protect these domain names or acquire or maintain relevant domain names in the United States and in other countries.
In addition, social media platforms provide users with access to such a broad audience that collective action against our website and marketplace stores, such as boycotts, can be more easily organized. If such actions were organized, we could suffer reputational damage as well as physical damage to our stores and merchandise.
The harm may be immediate without affording us an opportunity for redress or correction. In addition, social media platforms provide users with access to such a broad audience that collective action against our website and marketplace stores, such as boycotts, can be more easily organized.
Moreover, if we fail to collect and remit or pay required sales or other taxes in a jurisdiction, or qualify or register to do business in a jurisdiction that requires us to do so or if we have failed to do so in the past, we could face material liabilities for taxes, fees, interest and penalties.
Moreover, if we fail to collect and remit or pay required sales or other taxes in a jurisdiction, or qualify or register to do business in a jurisdiction that requires us to do so or if we have failed to do so in the past, we could face material liabilities for taxes, fees, interest and penalties. 18 Table of Contents If we are unable to substantially utilize our net operating loss (“NOLs”) carry-forwards, our financial results may be adversely affected, and protections implemented by us to preserve our NOLs may have unintended anti-takeover effects. As of December 28, 2024, our NOL carryforwards for federal and state were $127,019 and $93,822, respectively.
In addition, there can be no guarantee that repurchases made under our share repurchase program, if any, will enhance shareholder value. Future capital raises may dilute our existing stockholders’ ownership. If we raise additional capital by issuing equity securities, our existing stockholders’ percentage ownership may decrease, and these stockholders may experience substantial dilution. ITEM 1B.
In addition, there can be no guarantee that repurchases made under our share repurchase program, if any, will enhance shareholder value. As of December 28, 2024, the Company remained authorized to repurchase up to approximately $25,234 in shares of its common stock. Future capital raises may dilute our existing stockholders’ ownership.
In addition, under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and corresponding provisions of state law, a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” (generally defined as a greater than 50% change, by value, in its equity ownership over a three-year period) is subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its pre-ownership change NOL carryforwards to offset post-ownership change income.
Under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code, a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” may be subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its pre-change NOLs to offset future taxable income.
Throughout 2018 and 2019, the U.S. imposed tariffs on imports from several countries, including China.
Throughout 2018 and 2019, and just recently in 2025, the U.S. imposed tariffs on imports from several countries, including China. In February 2025, the U.S. administration announced increased tariff on imports from China, where a significant portion of our products are sourced. Following the U.S. administration’s announcements, China has also announced corresponding retaliatory tariff measures.