Writer Alec Depcrynski explores one of the Richmond region's more off-beat industries in the latest update of Richmond BizSense -- automotive accessory shops.

It's a tough business, writes Depcrynski. The automobile industry is not exactly booming these days, but there are more shops than ever in the Richmond area competing for the same customer base. Gary Ford, co-owner of Williams Plaza, says he sees the most business after tax season, when people are eager to unwind and spend some money on "bling" for their ride. Much of the rim clientele is Black or Hispanic, Depcrynski writes.

The proliferation of accessory stores in the last five years has made business difficult. To stay alive shops like Ford's are performing more routine repairs or other modifications. Says Ford: "We sell and install rims and tires, we do detail work and we do audio upgrades. Pretty much anything that you can do to your car, we can do for you."