The local BBB provided 1.4 million instances of service — a category that includes fielding calls for reliability reports and Internet inquiries — last year. This marked an 11 percent increase over 2008, the organization said.
Also last year, the BBB processed 6,600 complaints, a 12 percent jump over 2008. The organization’s Internet site received 267,000 separate visits and more than 1 million page views.
Auto-repair and service businesses joined last year’s top 10 list of businesses generating the most consumer inquiries. BBB spokeswoman Sheri Sword said that, with consumers hanging on to their cars longer in the tight economy, more also are seeking information about mechanics before they take their vehicles in for repairs.
Both roofing contractors and the tax-preparation industry joined the list of businesses generating the most complaints in 2009, officials said.
“The economy has had a significant impact on your BBB’s workload because people are being more careful and selective when they shop,” said John North, president and chief executive of the Dayton bureau.
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