For Aftermarket Shops, the Good Ol’ Days Are Now

This article originally appeared in the April 2025 issue of THE SHOP magazine.

“Oh, the good ol’ days” is a phrase that has meant so much to so many people in so many ways. Thinking back on a period of time when things were fun, enjoyable or just easier, and the rush of memories that comes with the fleeting moment simply brings a smile.

In business discussions, the “good ol’ days” can refer to when business was good, profitable and even a bit fun.

The restyling business, like any business, has its share of ups and downs. I was recently talking to some friends about how rough the Great Recession was in 2008-09 compared to the 1990s, when accessories were being residualized at the banks and car dealers would use our products to lower a person’s car payment while upgrading their vehicle. Crazy times, for sure, but very good for business.

The thing is, we look back at good times and don’t always remember that, often at the height of those positive experiences, there were also some difficult moments, challenges and even catastrophes that filled out the entire context. Still, we refer to them as “good times” because, despite the hurdles, the overall result was positive.

THE BIG PICTURE

I bring this up because, from time to time, it’s healthy for us to take a moment to reflect on the big picture of our businesses. Yes, I’m sure you’ve had some issues or problems at the shop today that required your attention and there will no doubt be some tomorrow that will cause anxiety. But, overall, how are things really going?

Compared to many people, I’m sure you are doing well. In fact, if you take a big step back and reflect, would you say that most things are positive on a daily basis?

Along with your personal experiences, there are also positives that affect our entire industry that we can take a moment to appreciate.

For instance, think of the core products we work with every day. For the most part, the quality of aftermarket products is as good as it has ever been. There was a time when overall quality wasn’t nearly as high, and many people looked upon our offerings as vastly inferior to OEM and factory options.

Another positive is that our industry now has decades of history and proof that car dealers and the retail public can have confidence in us and the value of accessorizing.

And consider the fact that, despite certain challenges, what we do is enjoyable. There are many worse ways to make a living than by helping vehicles look and work better and bringing people pride and joy. I doubt you have anyone picketing or attacking you on social media simply because of the type of business you operate.

CONTAGIOUS OPTIMISM

So, how can these observations help your business now? I suggest starting by making sure you use your personal reflections to encourage the people around you.

Positivity and optimism can be contagious when it comes to sales, production, problem solving and the outlook of your employees. Consider:

• Taking time to remind your staff how appreciative you are of their efforts.
• Finding opportunities to praise them in front of others and one on one.
• Making sure they know their hard work makes a real difference.

Many times, we are quick to look for issues and correct problems, like plugging a hole in a boat. Yet, we don’t always take time to perform basic maintenance on the non-urgent parts of that same boat.

Some shop owners don’t give praise or commendations as often as they should because they are fearful employees won’t work as hard, could start to slack off or may even ask for more money.

Studies have shown, however, that the exact opposite is true. Employees that are regularly commended are more loyal, work harder and become more efficient looking for other ways to help the company. Some even prefer commendations and recognition over money.

Sales can also benefit because, when you are positive and optimistic with your customers and your sales and service staff, it becomes contagious. When people are in a good mood they buy more, and we all prefer to do business with happy, joyful people.

So, think about ways you can bring more positivity to the sales side of your business. How can you make things more enjoyable while remaining productive? Perhaps a fun competition that doesn’t just revolve around numbers.

Whatever it is, be sure you highlight your appreciation—chances are, your employees will then soon understand what it is they appreciate about working with you, and the cycle will continue.

The next time you’re feeling beat up or a little down because of the constant grind, take a few minutes to reflect on what you’re accomplishing and the positives you enjoy. Yes, the good ol’ days really are today!