BETHESDA, MD -- Quality continues to be the most important factor for repair shop owners, service managers and technicians when it comes to purchasing shop tools today and in the future, according to the 2005/2006 Tool Purchasing Trends, a new market research report published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

Other high ranking factors that influence tool purchasing decisions are availability, warranty and service, which reinforces the position of the mobile tool distributor as the most frequently used supplier for tool purchases. Price and payment options were considered only somewhat important to decision makers.

"Automotive service professionals just don't compromise when it comes to buying tools," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "In no uncertain terms, survey respondents said quality and brand were their most important considerations."

The report plans to help readers gain insight into current and future purchasing decisions of professionals who utilize shop tools for automotive repair. The report is part of an annual series of surveys devoted to collecting data on tool purchasing trends in odd years and equipment purchasing trends in even years.

The report covers the following: factors that influence past and future tool purchases; brand name importance; "Made in USA" importance; current and future tool spending; and tools provided by repair shops.

The 54-page 2005/2006 Tool Purchasing Trends report is available in print format only. The price of the report is $99 for AAIA members and $199 for non-members. To purchase the report, contact AAIA at 301-654-6664 or visit aftermarket.org.

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