What a bunch of cobblers

“Save and repair”. That is the mantra which is driving increasing numbers of consumers to the repair shops rather than to the brand new products on display in the shops….

A great video from the BBC America team makes a simple point really well. In an economic downturn, demand switches from one market segment to another.

Take the buyers of shoes. You have a selection of favourite footwear, some of which is looking a bit worn. Do you buy a new replacement, or do you spend less and have the footwear repaired, making use of the traditional cobbler’s skills. Looks like business has rarely been better for this Florida cobbler - and good luck to him.

So, which other consumer product markets will see buyers looking to “save and repair” rather than “buy new”?