Per-Dealer Sales Headed for Another Record

The average number of auto sales per dealership in the U.S. will reach 877 this year, the fourth record high in as many years, according to the midyear Automotive Franchise Activity Report from Detroit-based Urban Science Inc.

The forecast assumes vehicle sales of 15.6 million units in 2013. The rise in per-store sales suggests further increases in dealership profitability.

The report shows the number of auto dealers in the U.S. slipped by 71 to about 17,800 between January and July this year. California gained the most dealers (20), and New Jersey lost the most (8) during the period.

Urban Science notes that Suzuki Motor Corp., which has pulled out of the American auto market, is closing 222 franchises there including 125 stand-alone dealerships.