Is There Something Going On?

Strange. That is the only word that can describe some of the trends I have been hearing about and witnessing in the service sector of late.

First, my boyfriend's practice has seen a noticeable slow down in recent weeks. One would think that a medical practice is relatively inelastic and would not respond that negatively to bad economic news. However, my boyfriend's practice is a niche practice and, although we do not like to admit it, is not a "must have" medical service.

Second, several people in my boyfriend's circle of medical friends have seen slow downs in their practices as well. He has heard this from accupuncturists, psychiatrists, and others.

Third, I went to drop my Lexus off for service this morning. The dealership opens at 7:30 AM and usually when I get there, cars are lined up into the street for drop off. Today no one - not a single car in line. The guy that checked me in said he had "never seen it so slow."

It is very odd - especially in services that are, for the most part, essential. I mean you can defer medical treatment or car maintenance for a time period, but cannot eradicate it completely. Are we witnessing a horrible backlash to the free-spending ways of the last 5 years?