While the past few years have presented challenges to the auto care industry, the claim that it's dying is false. Learn how the industry is changing and adapting instead.
Automotive Revolution Inches Forward
The automotive industry is evolving, but our dependence on cars remains strong. Since the first station wagon rolled off the Ford production line in 1929, cars have played a significant role in American families. At least 92% of American households own a car, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. We depend on our vehicles for work, life, and play. The average American spends 51 minutes in a car each day, and over the year, we collectively spend 70 billion hours on the road, according to AAA.
The U.S. aftermarket auto industry is currently valued at $17.5 billion and is on track to grow 2% per year to reach $20 billion by 2028. People still rely on traditional vehicles despite a jump in electric car sales. Used car sales set a record in 2021. At least 40.9 million used cars sold in 2021, up 10% from 2020, Automotive News reports. And the average age of cars on the road is climbing, creating a high demand for auto repair.
While quick-lube providers may see a decline in customers as demand for electric vehicles grows, one-stop auto repair shops are poised for growth. As technology increases and we turn to sustainable solutions to help reduce our carbon footprint, the aftermarket auto industry is taking steps to continue providing valuable services to its customers.
Moran: Ready for the Future
Moran Family of Brands franchises six brands in the aftermarket auto and window tinting industry. We’ve been franchising for more than 33 years, and over that time, we’ve weathered countless automotive repair industry trends. We launched our newest brand, Turbo Tint, at the height of the pandemic. Our strong support staff and franchise system are poised for success as the auto industry evolves.
Let’s look at some of the ways Moran is navigating the future of the auto care industry.
One-Stop Shop. Electric cars may not require regular oil changes but still need maintenance and repair. Moran started a co-branding initiative to provide a one-stop shop for its customers. Co-branding provides multiple revenue streams and profit centers. With two brands under one roof, franchises drive strong repeat business and generate higher ticket prices.
Digital Solutions. As more services go digital, the auto care industry needs to increase its efforts to incorporate online solutions. Offering digital services can drive repeat business and improve the customer service experience. Moran’s Turbo Tint brand is designed to allow customers to shop and book tint packages on its website. When they bring their car in, they simply pick the desired shade, and their window tint is installed in under an hour.
With more dealers implementing remote diagnostic monitoring to drive service visits, auto repair shops must focus on building trustworthy customer relationships. To compete with dealerships, Moran went digital. We implemented digital profiles to create a repair history and help customers stay up-to-date on maintenance.
Moran’s team helps advocate for locally owned auto repair shops to prevent manufacturers from implementing specialized tools and repair techniques that require dealer maintenance. By staying abreast of the latest trends, Moran’s franchise system can continue to meet the needs of our customers.
Hiring. The rising number of software-dependent vehicles is making it harder to find qualified mechanics to get the job done. Moran is dedicated to helping its franchise system recruit service technicians. We have programs with trade schools, junior colleges, and veteran service organizations to secure talent.
Hit the Gas with Moran
If you are considering a future in the auto care industry, Moran is looking for people with dedication, enthusiasm, and integrity to join its franchise team. The startup costs for one of our locations are $118,219 to $296,767, which includes a one-time franchise fee of $50,000 for a co-branded location. As a Moran franchisee, you’ll get access to the training, support, and guidance you need to help build your customer base and launch a recession-resistant business in the automotive industry.
To learn more about Moran and the details of franchising a mechanic shop, request information to connect with someone from our team.