ATLANTA -

The largest wholesale auto auction in the world will celebrate its 70th birthday on Wednesday.

Manheim Pennsylvania opened its doors with single lane in 1945 — today, it has 33 lanes as well as digital access, selling over 450,000 vehicles per year.

The auction’s “Manheim through the Years” event will be hosted on Wednesday and Thursday, featuring decade-themed sales lanes dedicated to the business’ growth.

Thursday will end with a Highline sale for dealers in the morning, followed by a dealer appreciation event that evening.

“Our seven decades of success would not be possible without our employees, loyal customers and community support,” said Julie Picard, the auction’s vice president and general manager. “Recognizing this historical milestone allows us to look back at how it all started, as well as consider the exciting possibilities ahead.”

Picard also announced that the auction has selected St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as the charity of choice for the 70th anniversary events. Brittany Clark, the regional development representative for the hospital, commented on the recognition.

“It’s an honor to be designated as the charity of choice for Manheim Pennsylvania’s 70th anniversary activities,” Clark said. “This auction is steeped in history and demonstrates a deep commitment to serving others, whether customers or charitable organizations such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We are proud to partner with Cox Automotive and Manheim Pennsylvania and helping them better understand St. Jude’s impact as the hospital continues to lead the way in how the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.”

More information about the auction can be found here.