As an independent workshop owner, understanding what services are going to be most profitable in your local market now and into the future is critical to your business planning.
It can be difficult to know where to focus your time and investment. Should you concentrate on general mechanical repairs, diagnostics, hybrid vehicles, or EVs? How do you plan for the next ten years when the vehicles in your area are constantly changing?
In this article we look at the steps you can take and advice on where to source some of the data that’ll help you.
Understanding your local car parc is the first step. Today, most Australian vehicles on the road are petrol or diesel, but the numbers of hybrid and electric vehicles are steadily rising. The mix of makes and models in your market will influence the demand for certain services. For example, areas with a higher proportion of older vehicles may require more general mechanical and suspension repairs, while other areas with newer vehicles may see higher demand for electronics diagnostics, battery servicing, and hybrid repairs.
Looking ahead, the Australian car parc is evolving quickly. Analysts predict that by the mid-2030s, electric vehicles will make up a greater portion of vehicles on the road. This shift brings both challenges and opportunities. Workshops will need to be ready to service batteries, EV-specific brakes, regenerative systems, and advanced driver-assist technology. At the same time, demand for traditional services like engine and transmission repairs may gradually decrease.
A key factor in planning your services is understanding your local population trends. Population growth can indicate future opportunities. For example, if your town is expecting new housing developments, more families moving in, or expansion of local businesses, there is likely to be increased demand for vehicle servicing. You can access this information through resources such as:
Another valuable resource is industry reporting from the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA). The AAAA provides members with regular updates on car parc trends, emerging vehicle technology, and industry insights. Every member of the Repco Authorised Service program is automatically a member of the AAAA, giving access to this data as part of their RAS membership. This means RAS workshops can plan their services with confidence, knowing they have reliable, up-to-date information on vehicle trends and market demand.
Once you have a clear picture of your current and future market, you can align your service offerings. Analyse your current customer base, track the types of vehicles they drive, and identify which services are most requested. Supplier insights, training opportunities, and industry reports can help you identify gaps and plan strategically for future demand.
Marketing your capabilities is just as important as having them. Your customers need to know that your workshop is ready to handle new technology and can support them now and in the future. Clear communication builds trust and strengthens customer loyalty.
By understanding your local car parc, population trends, and vehicle technology shifts, and by using reliable data sources, you can confidently offer the services your market will demand now and into the next decade. Planning for the future does not have to be overwhelming—preparation and insight will give your business a competitive advantage.
Being part of a network like Repco Authorised Service can make this process easier. Members gain access to national support, tailored training, and guidance on identifying market opportunities. With access to AAAA reports and industry insights, RAS workshops can make informed decisions about the services they provide while staying competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
If you’d like to know more, click to contact one of our dedicated Business Development Specialists.