BUSINESS BRIEFS.(TO THE POINT)

RETAIL

Asbestos puts brakes on AutoZone

The No. 1 U.S. auto parts retailer and other car-related firms were named as defendants in asbestos suits involving the sale of brake parts. AutoZone and rival Pep Boys said the suits won't have a material impact on results. AutoZone fell 4%, Pep Boys 6%, Advance Auto Parts 1% and Monro Muffler 5%.

McDonald's to accept credit cards

The fast-food chain will start accepting credit card and debit card payments in the U.S. by mid-'03. McDonald's didn't do so before amid concerns about slowing down the payment process. But it's found customers often don't want to carry cash and want to get frequent flier …