I’m hoping last year ended to your satisfaction. We business owners are always trying to do better than we have in the past and 2025 presented some challenges. A low car count was the major problem for shops across the industry. Mechanical shops struggled with this in the beginning of the year, while collision shops had a second lull in the fall with steering issues. Two warm winters have taken their toll. Thankfully, we are welcoming a real Minnesota winter to “jump start” us into the new year.

Now that 2025 is in the rear-view mirror, what is in store for us in 2026? Owning an automotive business in Minnesota offers many advantages, including a strong demand for services. The necessity for transportation, the all-time high number of registered vehicles and the oldest average vehicle age in history ensures a steady demand for our services. Market dynamics suggest a trend of customers increasingly relying on independents over dealerships, wanting a more personal transaction. All we have to do is some forecasting and some planning to make this a great year.

To get ready for this year, we need to review our marketing, evaluate the current staff, keep vendors in check and take a good look at our facilities. Are there processes that need updating or creating? Oh yeah, that elephant in the room: AI. How are we going to use it and other new technologies that keep coming? Strategically addressing these things can help us thrive this year. 

I know, that all sounds great, but how do we do all this? The best way is by making sure you are connected to a group of like-minded business owners to network with. 

This group, The Alliance, is just that.

Network and learn from other shop leaders as they navigate similar strategy questions. Search the member directory to find new connections to reach out to. Coming soon, there will be a private forum for members to ask questions, share ideas, and gather new insights into what is working in the Minnesota market.

Make sure you have aasp@aaspmn.org saved as a trusted sender, so you don’t miss any critical updates on new opportunities. We look forward to seeing you at an AASPMN event this year!



Mark your calendar for the AASPMN Leadership Conference & Annual Meeting, March 30-31, 2026, Mystic Lake Center & Casino Hotel, Prior Lake!