Twin Brothers Auto Glass: Navigating Change in a Shifting Landscape
For nearly two decades, Victor Perez has been at the helm of Twin Brothers Auto Glass, situated in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District. Traditionally, his business thrived on repairing car windows damaged during break-ins, which represented a significant portion of his revenue.
A Decline in Business Due to Improved Safety
Perez recalls a time when his shop would see numerous vehicles each day needing urgent window repairs. “Used to be in one day we’d see 8 to 10 windows,” he noted, reflecting on a past filled with demand.
However, recent trends indicate a shift. The San Francisco Police Department reported that the incidence of car break-ins has fallen to the lowest levels recorded in two decades. This decline has translated into a 40% decrease in business for Perez, marking an unexpected turn in his operations.
Adapting to New Realities
In response to the drop in window repairs, Perez has pivoted his business focus. “Now, I’m mostly doing window tinting and speaker upgrades,” he said. Despite this transition, he expresses concern about his future revenue streams.
Challenges Ahead: Tariffs and Customer Spending
Perez is also facing looming economic hurdles stemming from tariffs introduced during the Trump administration. “You know the prices for all of this is going to be up,” he warned, predicting a potential increase of at least 30% in costs for parts and materials. This price hike is compounded by concerns that reduced disposable income among customers might lead to further declines in business.
“They don’t want to spend money right now. They don’t have enough to spend money,” Perez explained, highlighting the impact of economic stress on his customer base.
Looking to the Future
The combination of diminished repair work alongside rising costs has left Perez bracing for what he fears could be his most challenging year yet. Despite these obstacles, he remains optimistic about weathering this storm. “I hope it’s going to be OK, you know? I don’t know when, but it’s going to be OK,” he stated, showing resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Conclusion
The situation at Twin Brothers Auto Glass reflects broader shifts in urban safety and economic dynamics, posing unique challenges for local businesses. As Victor Perez adapts to these changes, his experience underscores the need for flexibility and resilience in the automotive service industry.
