In the United States today, there are more than a quarter of a million auto repair shops. Although this $60 billion industry has stalled in recent years amid economic conditions and disposable income levels, this sector of the economy is on the rise again, which means current auto repair shops have the opportunity to increase their profit margins. 

With motorists saving money on gasoline, they are looking to make an array of enhancements to their vehicles, repair existing problems, and give their cars a fresh coat of paint. As new generations enter the car market they will need a reliable auto mechanic to perform necessary repairs and routine maintenance.

Moving forward, auto repair shops need to adapt to the current auto market, which is being flooded with fuel-efficient cars, electric vehicles and soon-to-be driverless cars. Of course, this can require significant investment into the business itself, such as new state-of-the-art equipment, more space within the shop and an improved point-of-sale (POS) system.

Are you unsure what exactly to invest in to make your auto repair shop the place to go? Here are six solutions all auto repair shops should consider to give their a bottom line a shot in the arm:

New Equipment

As automakers develop technologically advanced vehicles, your auto repair shop should adapt and understand the latest advancements. Your establishment should have the latest state-of-the-art equipment to monitor, detect and solve certain problems within the infrastructure of the car. This investment will pay off in the end, especially as consumers start purchasing newer vehicles.

More Space

If you have a tight space within your auto repair shop then perhaps it's time to expand and have a great amount of space for all of your repairs. Think about it: if more car owners come into your shop then your space must accommodate this substantial growth, otherwise you risk losing out on new clients that could be long-term.

Up to date Lobby

Similar to a larger space for repairs, your auto repair shop should also maintain an area for guests as they wait for an oil change, a tire repair or five-point inspection. A crammed area with limited seating and minimal entertainment may deter a customer from visiting your shop. One investment could be additional comfortable seating, a television with the news and an open space.

More Inventory

This happens to a lot of businesses (it isn't privy to just the auto industry): an influx of customers need one specific part to repair the car, but you just sold it to a customer last week. It's important to sit down and create a list of the most used and most popular parts around; a sufficient stock can minimize wait times and improve customer service. 

Marketing Campaigns & Promotions

You have the tools, inventory and staff to perform at a high level. Unfortunately, motorists are still unaware of your brand, which is why now would be an opportune time to invest in marketing campaigns and promotions, primarily online. Here are a few marketing campaign ideas to initiate to build awareness:

•   Email newsletters that consist of helpful content and future promotions.
•   Ask for referrals and provide those referrers with a 10 percent discount.
•   Encourage customers to write a review on Yelp or social media.
•   Content marketing can help improve your SEO and showcase your brand as the authority.
•   Advertise online by using Google AdWords, buying real estate on related websites and launching an SEO campaign.

Social Media

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media outlets have been imperative to the realm of marketing and brand ubiquity. If you still have not created a presence on the big social networks then you have to as soon as possible.

By being active on Facebook and Twitter, you can engage with your audience, share interesting content and offer various promotions to followers. Thanking your customers for posting kind words about your brand and answering questions can also complement your initial marketing campaign.

As the list grows, you can see that auto repair shops require unique business funding solutions. It should be noted that it takes more than just being the cheapest place in town for tune-ups but rather offering high-quality service.

Here is what Know Your Parts wrote regarding auto repair shop growth:

"The quality of the service experience across all industries is very poor in the US and customers know and appreciate quality. This is particularly true of the automotive repair industry. Quality depends on great service and installing only quality parts from trusted manufacturers. The two go hand-in-hand. Having capable techs, using good, well-engineered parts, and service after the sale will set you apart."

With these unique needs that an auto repair business has, a business cash advance can be the funding tool to take advantage of. This alternative funding option can cover short-term expenses and pay for these types of investments in the company. 

For more ways to increase revenue and stay competitive, download this FREE investment guide for auto repair shops!