For 55 years, Burson Auto Parts has stood alongside the Australian automotive trade. What began from the back of a car boot in Melbourne has grown into Australia’s leading supplier of parts, tools and equipment to professional workshops nationwide.
This milestone is about more than longevity. It’s about the mechanics, workshop owners, suppliers and team members who have shaped Burson’s journey since 1971.
The 55-Year Anniversary
The 55-Year Anniversary logo blends heritage with a modern edge. Built on Burson’s original blue, it honours where we started while looking ahead to what’s next.
The anniversary identity will roll out across our stores, digital platforms, campaigns, supplier partnerships and industry events throughout 2026
SHARE YOUR STORY
Behind every Burson milestone is a story worth telling. We invite team members, customers and partners to share memories, moments and milestones from the past 55 years.
Whether it’s a photo, a story or a moment that mattered, we’d love to hear it. Submit your story below and be part of the celebration.
55 YEARS IN THE MAKING
Every milestone tells a story. From our early beginnings in 1971 to becoming a trusted trade partner nationwide, this timeline highlights the key moments that have shaped Burson over the past 55 years.
1971
Burson founded by Garry Johnson & Ron Burgoine
Burson was formed by Garry Johnson, and Ron Burgoine in 1971. The Business originally distributed a small range of automotive accessories to service stations and automotive outlets in Melbourne. In the early years the Business grew quickly via expansion of its product range.
1978
First store opened in Braybrook, VIC
Additional stores were added to the network, predominantly by consolidation of independent operators.
1986
Garry Johnson buys out Ron Burgoine
In 1986 Garry Johnson acquired Ron Burgoine’s 50% share, following this time the Business expanded interstate, acquiring its first store in New South Wales at Albury.
1987
Burson opens its 15th store
1996
Burson opens its 25th store
2004
Burson opens its 50th store
2005
Burson moves into purpose built head office and DISTRIBUTION CENTRE in Preston, VIC
2006
5 Coventry Group stores acquired in NSW
2008
11 Coventry Group stores acquired in QLD
2009
EzyParts 1.0 Launches in the market
2010
First NT store opened
2011
Burson acquired 11 stores in South Australia from Coventry Group
Garry Johnson sold the Burson business in 2011, to Quadrant Private Equity and management.
2012
3 new stores
Yarrawonga NT • Lismore • Brookvale
Acquisitions:
Townsville • Victor Harbour • Car Bitz Sunshine Coast
• Mackay Discount Auto Spares • Castle Hill
2013
Precision Auto Spares Sydney acquired by Burson, adding four stores to the Burson network
Acquisitions:
Mackay Chain St • Bundaberg • Peps Wetherill Park
New Stores:
Redcliffe • Peakhurst
2014
Burson lists on Australian Stock Exchange
2015
BURSON CREATES ITS NATIONAL OFFERING, WITH STORES IN EVERY AUSTRALIAN STATE & TERRITORY + A 2ND DC IN BRISBANE
2016
Burson achieved its milestone of 150 Stores Australia wide including 8 stores in WA
Burson Group Limited becomes Bapcor Limited
2017
motorsport sponsorship
2018
partnered with precision automotive equipment
started alliance business assistance program
opened store in bangkok
2020
Burson opens 190th store
2021
BURSON AUTO PARTS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS AND OPENS ITS 200TH STORE
2022
Burson Auto Parts moves to Bapcor’s new Support Office in Mount Waverley
2022
Burson opens 210th store
2023
Bapcor distribution centre opens in Redbank, QLD
2025
Launches the New Tagline - We'll get it sorted
