As the country moves forward, the ripples of economic changes are beginning to touch the automotive industry. According to Reuters, auto sales have dropped 15 percent to 20 percent, and this sales slump is expected to continue through the middle of next year.

An economic downturn often produces an increase in automotive service and repairs because consumers are more willing to service and maintain their current vehicles than they are to purchase a new vehicle.

Recently, many ASA members received the 2001 “How's Your Business?” survey. A preliminary statistic (prior to September 11) showed 64 percent of independent collision shops citing an increase in sales compared to 2000. Sales were up an average of 16.79 percent compared to 2000.

The majority of mechanical shops, 56 percent, also cited an increase in sales compared to 2000. Sales were up an estimated 12.68 percent above 2000.

Look for the complete 2001 “How's Your Business?” report in the December issue of AutoInc.

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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