The Future of the Small Laboratory: Grim Or Great?

By Kelly Fessel Carr

Posted Jun 11, 2012 in LMT Surveys


Small laboratories—those with one to three people—are the backbone of our industry, representing more than 50% of the U.S. market. LMT's Small Lab Survey offers an overview of who they are, how they work and their outlook for the future of their own businesses as well as their market segment as a whole.



For years, we've been hearing about the decline in the number of small labs and yet, to date, LMT's circulation data shows little attrition; the percentage of one- to three-person laboratories has remained relatively consistent during our 28-year history. However, more than 60% of the respondents to LMT's Small Lab Survey are over 55 years old. While a number of them comment they will "die at the bench," more than half plan to retire within the next 10 years; in other words, there will be a substantial shift in demographics in the near future. (For survey demographics, please see below.)


When you ask small laboratory operators about...

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About The Author

  • Kelly Fessel Carr

    Associate Publisher / Editor at LMT Communications, Inc. · Newtown, CT

    At the helm of the magazine for over 35 years, Kelly is the heart and soul of the editorial department, guiding and shaping our coverage - both in print and online - to bring dental laboratory decision-makers the news and...

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