In 2002, there are an estimated 78,034 independent general repair businesses performing mechanical repairs and service in the United States. According to the U.S. Census, approximately 72 percent (56,186) of those employ between one and four employees. Twenty-one percent (16,388) employ between five and nine employees. Six percent (4,682) employ between 10 and 19 employees. Large mechanical repair businesses employing between 20 and 49 employees make up 1 percent (780) of the population.

There are an estimated 35,118 independent collision repair businesses mending damaged vehicles and keeping consumers motoring safely. According to the U.S. Census, approximately 56 percent (19,666) employ between one and four employees. Nearly a quarter (24 percent) of collision businesses employ between five and nine employees. And 15 percent of collision businesses employ between 10 and 19 employees. Five percent of collision businesses employ between 20 and 49 employees.

As time moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the category percentages change. Since 1998, the mechanical repair sector has seen an increase in businesses employing five or more people. Since 1998, the collision industry has seen an increase in those businesses employing 10 or more individuals.

Stat Corner is written by Denise Caspersen, ASA's research management specialist. She can be reached at (800) 272-7467, ext. 236.

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