St. Louis--If you were to ask Bill Anselmo the reason for his collision repair facility's longevity, he would tell you it's his involvement in St. Louis' "The Hill" Italian neighborhood, where he was born, raised, lives, and has conducted business for more than a quarter-century.  However, he said current market conditions have forced him to make some changes to his longtime shop, Auto Art Inc., in order to stay afloat in a rapidly changing industry.

Midland, Mich.--It's critical for any organization to adapt to the needs of the marketplace, but it requires experience and insight.  Brian Cruickshank, longtime Counterman editor, said he brings those strengths to Northwood University's University of the Aftermarket.

Littleton, Colo. -- Being a part of a well-known business network has its advantages.  For the owners of southwest Denver's Exile Auto Body, that meant aligning their independent shop with a group that is trusted by many insurers' direct repair programs (DRPs). 

Richmond Heights, Mo.--It's not often that a young man can begin his career in the same business that his great-grandfather founded, but Aaron Telle is doing just that.  As his uncle, Mark Telle, vice president of Telle Tire & Auto Service, prepares for retirement, he is also teaching his nephew the finer points of the family business that spans nearly seven decades, the younger Telle said.

Colorado Springs, Colo.--The mantra of many niche independent shop owners is to do one thing and do it well.  Many do so, however, knowing that they're passing up business that may already be in their door, said Kraig Hermes, general manager and owner of Japanese Connection Inc.