In this Executive Spotlight, David Jett from Stephens joins host Kyle Alexander to discuss the automotive aftermarket trends shaping service businesses, dealerships and investors nationwide. Jett covers the automotive aftermarket at Stephens, a family owned investment bank, and advises business owners on financing, equity offerings and M&A. Jett says the rising average age of vehicles on American roads ranks among the biggest tailwinds for the aftermarket. Higher new-vehicle prices and elevated financing costs push many consumers toward repairs instead of replacement. Repair tickets that once seemed high, such as $3,000 jobs, have become common as owners choose to maintain existing vehicles rather than take on expensive new loans. Electric vehicle adoption has not matched expectations from a few years ago, Jett explains. Expense, charging infrastructure and range anxiety continue to limit widespread adoption. Hybrids offer a practical middle ground, letting owners retain gas engines while reducing pump visits. Jett expects internal combustion engines to remain common for years as the vehicle fleet gradually turns over. The aftermarket sector remains highly fragmented, and Jett highlights how that creates a strong opportunity for consolidation. Larger platforms gain purchasing power and can better fund technician training for new vehicle technologies. Both private equity firms and family offices actively pursue acquisitions, though family offices often pursue one-off deals rather than competitive auctions. Jett says the businesses that attract and retain loyal customers consistently post the strongest financial results and command the highest valuations.