SEEING IS BELIEVING (WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES)

The potential market for windshield wiper blade replacement is discussed. Wiper blades deteriorate in several ways: the wiper edge can wear from the action of abrasive dirt, and rubber can tear or distort out of its holder. As a product of natural rubber, wiper blades are subject to degrading effects of air pollution, road salt, ozone, and sulfur dioxide; northern areas demand heavy wiper use due to adverse weather conditions; and hot southern climates literally bake blades. Since the average life of wiper blades is no more than one year, according to industry sources, most cars on the road are candidates for new wipers. The potential business in blade replacement is substantial since wipers bring high profits, move fast, and install in seconds. Effective strategies in merchandizing wipers include asking the motorist if the blades need replacement, cleaning the customer's windshield and checking blades in the process, and pointing out defective blades when the need for replacement is obvious due to streaks and smears on a wet windshield. High-volume windshield wiper sales depend on an adequate inventory, and wiper blade demand tends to be cyclical (summer months being a slow period).

  • Corporate Authors:

    Hearst Books

    Motor Books Department, 224 West 57th Street
    New York, NY  United States  10019
  • Authors:
    • Gromer, C
  • Publication Date: 1980-4

Media Info

  • Pagination: p. 48-50
  • Serial:
    • Motor
    • Volume: 153
    • Issue Number: 4

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00391842
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  • Report/Paper Numbers: HS-028 852
  • Files: HSL, USDOT
  • Created Date: Jan 30 1985 12:00AM