What can industry benchmarks really tell you about your business? In this insightful article, Hunt Demarest explores the latest trends shaping the auto repair industry and explains how shop owners can use benchmarking to make smarter, more profitable decisions. This article was originally published on Ratchet+Wrench.com and takes a closer look at the key findings from the 2026 PMA Benchmark Report.

Drawing from financial data across hundreds of repair shops, Demarest uncovers why many businesses are seeing higher sales, stronger productivity, and increased labor rates—yet not experiencing greater profitability. He breaks down the impact of inflation, rising technician wages, and declining effective labor rates, revealing how these hidden factors can quietly erode margins despite increased output.

Rather than simply comparing numbers, Demarest encourages owners to interpret benchmark data through the lens of their own business, asking whether performance gaps are intentional or signs of overlooked opportunities. His practical analysis helps shop owners move beyond surface-level metrics to identify the changes that truly drive long-term success.

If you want to understand where your shop stands, what trends matter most, and how to turn industry data into better business decisions, this is a must-read.

👉 Read more on Ratchet+Wrench and discover how benchmarking can help your shop survive—and thrive.