Rate Notice: 5.9% general rate increase Jan 1, 2026 — Learn More
    UNIS logo
    The AAFES logo features a red and blue shield with white text indicating the organizations brand

    Aafes

    The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is the Department of Defense’s largest retailer, delivering tax-free goods and services to military communities worldwide through 4,330 facilities and a robust online platform.

    Company Overview

    AAFES, also known as The Exchange, operates retail stores, convenience outlets, restaurants, and online shopping for U.S. Army, Air Force, and Space Force personnel and their families. As a non-profit, it supports military readiness and quality of life by returning earnings to fund morale, welfare, and recreation programs. The organization serves more than 12 million authorized customers globally.

    Key Metrics

    12,000

    Import Shipments

    8

    Distribution Centers

    8.5B

    Annual Revenue

    1895

    Founded

    Company Profile

    Key Milestones

    Important company milestones and achievements.

    Markets Served

    Geographic markets and customer segments served.

    Ownership Structure

    Corporate ownership and organizational structure.

    Sales Channels

    Distribution networks and sales approaches.

    Recent Developments

    AAFES has focused on expanding digital retail capabilities, enhancing customer benefits, and supporting military communities through reinvestment and new service offerings.

    Strategic Expansion

    Expansion of online shopping privileges to veterans and select caregivers

    Market Expansion

    Strategic efforts to expand market presence and reach new customer segments.

    Technology Adoption

    Implementation of advanced technologies to improve service delivery and customer experience.

    Business Information

    AAFES provides a comprehensive retail and service network for active duty, guard, reserve members, retirees, and their families, offering competitively priced merchandise and exclusive military benefits. Its operations span over 4,330 facilities in more than 30 countries and four U.S. territories, including department stores, convenience stores, restaurants, and military clothing outlets. The Exchange also manages online shopping and catalog sales, extending benefits to a highly mobile customer base. All earnings are reinvested to support military communities and improve troop quality of life.

    Headquarters

    Dallas, Texas

    Founded

    1895

    Stock Symbol

    Private company