The Incredibly Shrinking Industry
Until three years ago, the prospect of some Wall Street investor teaming up with a body shop owner was incomprehensible. Today, it’s reality. Welcome to the brave, new — consolidating — world of collision repair.
Becoming the Fastest Gun in the Shop
Because the industry is changing rapidly, the best painters are productive technicians, active communicators, speedy problem solvers and quick learners.
Market Profile: Is the Industry that Bad?
It’s not uncommon to hear shop owners complaining about how awful the collision repair industry is. In fact, when a group of such shop owners get together, it’s worse than a group of old ladies sitting around discussing all their health problems. I know because I speak with a lot of collision repairers and I’m related to a lot of old Italian women (my mother, for one). And, although I have no desire to hear my family discussing bladder control, a group of collision repairers complaining is still worse — especially since most of their problems are fixable.
The Next Generation: Difficulties Shop Owners have Recruiting New Blood into the Industry
The economy of our great nation has been strong enough of late that young folks who have the desire to succeed and become proficient at something can choose many career routes to follow. Unfortunately for us, repairing damaged vehicles doesn’t seem to be at the top of their wish lists. Computers, sales, various unionized trades … these choices rate higher than our industry. Just look at attendance at various vo-tech schools. More class space is allocated to other career choices, and more students attend classes for other career choices than they do for autobody repair.
Perplexed by Profits
Today’s collision repair business is more complex than ever, yet most shop owners still don’t understand an elementary principle of business: profit. If you really want to make money, quit acting like you’re running a non-profit organization.
If You Build It…Remodeling Tips for Best Results
If you remodel your shop – and do it right – the return on your investment will be improved efficiency, increased profits and more motivated employees. Take it from these guys …
Finding Your Niche
What’s had the living daylights kicked out of it and smells like a herd of horses? It could be your next job. Repairing horse trailers, offering rental cars or spraying on bed liners are just some insurer-free services that can boost your bottom line.
Expert Advice: Growing or Selling Your Business
Whether you want to grow your business or sell your business, it’s wise to follow in the footsteps of shop owners who’ve gone where you’d like to go.
Managing To Be Great
Great managers possess an uncanny knack for juggling, allowing them to be everything to everybody.
Weighing the Options: Repair or Replace?
To repair or replace shouldn’t be decided by tossing a coin or by an insurance company. If you’re unsure what to do, your best bet for success is to talk with techs who’ve been there, done that.
