Automotive rebound continues

Trend Observation:   Automotive was among the hardest-hit categories during the recession of 12/1/07 through 6/1/09.  The contraction was illustrated by the closure of many dealerships, as well as vanishing name plates like Saturn, Hummer, Mercury, Pontiac and Plymouth.  But it seems the pendulum has headed the other way, according to this story from the Detroit News; there are 66 new dealerships, and roughly 2,400 new jobs in the retail automotive sector, and sales are pacing up about 10% year-over-year.  Click here for the full story. 

Marketing Implications:  What does the comeback look like in your category?  Is it as robust as the increases in the automotive, home furnishings and home improvement industry?

While it is critically important for a company to see a downturn coming, and time its’ more conservative approach very carefully… it is just as important to recognize when your category is on the rebound, and time your more assertive plans with equal precision. 

Mike Anderson, for the Elm Street Economics consumer trends blog. A service of The Center for Sales Strategy, Inc.