The Value of Aftermarket Service in a Changing Economy

As the global recession deepens, managers across a number of industries are faced with the daunting task of increasing revenue while reducing costs and conserving cash in an environment where product sales and prices are falling rapidly. Many firms are considering or have already begun to take drastic measures including workforce reductions, capacity cutbacks and divestiture of under-performing businesses. Some are facing the real prospect of bankruptcy and liquidation. But this singular focus on cost cutting can result in missed top line opportunities; in these tough times it is easy to overlook how aftermarket service can provide some timely relief.

Historically, the sale of aftermarket support has provided as much as 50% of a company’s revenue and a disproportionately high contribution to profit. In many industries, service contracts, spare parts and maintenance labor have some of the highest profit margins in the product portfolio. Today, however, many customers have slashed their budgets for new product and services acquisition, and are looking for a rapid financial payback on any new expenditure. Aftermarket service presents some unique opportunities that make it a prime candidate for delivering value in the current financial climate. By increasing their market share of aftermarket parts and services, companies will be able to generate a more predictable, high margin revenue stream that will also increase customer satisfaction and retention.

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