AUTO - Automotive United Trades Organization

AUTO was formed in 1984 as a non-profit trade association dedicated to assisting and representing motor fuel marketers in the state of Washington.

In 1984, franchised service station dealers in WA became increasingly concerned over the lack of legal rights they had in the franchise relationship between themselves and the major oil companies. The Washington Legislature responded to the dealer’s concerns by passing the Gasoline Dealer’s Bill of Rights (RCW 19.120). The law was signed into effect by then Governor Booth Gardner on April 4, 1986.

AUTO’s roots are deeply imbedded in the day to day functions of running a small business within the petroleum distribution system.

In 2010, AUTO members were operating approximately 300 motor fuel outlets and supplying over 500 other independent operators usually under the brand name of a major oil company.

As it was in the beginning, AUTO continues to be in the “people business”. Our people just happen to be in the business of operating or supplying retail motor fuel outlets. Accordingly, AUTO is committed to:

• Helping them get into the business
• Helping them succeed in the business
• Helping them exit the business