J.R.’s Auto, serving Memphis car buyers as shortages loom

The covid pandemic has been a disruptive and frightening time for the entire world. When the lockdowns began in March of 2020 people around the world were restricted to their homes. Demands for cars plummeted, often as much as 65 percent. As the world recovers from the deadly and virulent disease, the demand for automobiles is once more on the rise. Competition for used auto stock is fierce. With a global shortage of microchips that industries like car manufacturers use for hundreds of components in modern cars stock positions are very low.  Industry insiders point out that used car resellers are desperate to find product to sell and are looking for new ways to find new stock beyond the traditional auto auctions

J.R.’s Auto sales has been reselling cars for at their Summer Avenue Location for nearly thirty-five years. Owned by J.R. Marbry and Lisa Brock, the business has weathered economic downturns and boons alike and provides financing to nontraditional borrowers who might not otherwise be qualified to receive auto financing. The in-house financing allows the business to prosper even in times of economic stress.

When asked about the chip shortage and inventory position Lisa stated that “Auctions that are the primary source of used car inventory were closed for several months during the height of the pandemic additionally consumers stopped trading in used cars because dealerships had not new car inventory. These factors have resulted in prices that up forty percent due to a resulting surge in demand. We fear that our inventory positions may not return to pre-pandemic levels until 2023.”

Local news outlets have reported at times prices are double what they were in in  2019. As Tax season continues prices may continue to rise as more and more people seek to get rolling again. This Photo essay examines J.R.’s business and operations.