For example, when you look at unemployment rates, you see that the ability of the consumer to get work is pretty easy right now. So barring any huge blip in the economy as a result of major layoffs, inflation, or skyrocketing interest rates, we see this continuing. Dealers we talk to around the country are very optimistic also. Increasing the average number of contracts received per dealer translates into significant volume. We re currently operating in 39 states in over 60 major metropolitan areas, creating a tremendous opportunity for us to grow within these markets.
Geographic growth is another strategy.
Overall, there are approximately 15,000 new car franchise dealers that meet the criteria that we look at to do business. Currently, we are doing business with only 5,000 of those. As far as mergers and acquisitions, there are always opportunities out there and we continue to look at those possibilities. However, as I just explained, we have ample growth opportunity just within the existing markets. Our executive management team has been with us, including their time at the bank, for over nine years.