In a recent survey conducted by Babcox Research, jobber and retail subscribers to Counterman magazine were asked to report average invoice amounts for their shop and DIY customers.
As the chart below illustrates, DIYers appear to spend nearly the exact same amount, on average, whether they purchase parts from a jobber or retailer. Shops, on the other hand, spend a significant amount more with jobbers than they do with retailers. According to the 2010 Counterman P.A.R.T.S. study, in most instances jobbers are the primary source for shops when purchasing parts.
Methodology:
In September 2009, Babcox Research mailed 4,499 questionnaires to jobber and retail subscribers of Counterman magazine. More than 450 surveys were completed and returned for a 10 percent response rate. Both audiences, jobbers and retailers, were sent the same questionnaire. Babcox Research also asks similar questions of independent repair shops in its annual P.A.R.T.S. (Professional Automotive Repair Technician Survey).
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