The Automotive Parts Services Group met for its national membership conference at the Gaylord National Harbor in Maryland.
Themed "We the People," the event drew more than 1,000 members, suppliers, and associates and kicked off with a patriotic celebration linking American history to current aftermarket industry challenges, including Right to Repair. The remainder of the first day featured a drum and fife corps, historical portrayals of Thomas Jefferson and Teddy Roosevelt, and a performance by The Newsies, followed by a dinner and vendor expo.
Sue Godschalk, CEO of Federated Auto Parts; Robert Roos, CEO of The Pronto Network; J.C. Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc., welcomed attendees and talked about initiatives across the automotive aftermarket. Jeff Koviak, CEO of The Group, delivered a keynote on building collaborative industry relationships.
During the four-day gathering, attendees participated in a vendor expo and over 4,800 one-on-one sessions between Group members and supplier partners. Brand-specific marketing meetings and a closing D.C. Block Party Afterglow Reception and Celebration concluded the event.
“We thank all that attended the 2025 Automotive Parts Services Group conference who helped us conduct a very positive, productive, and collaborative meeting,” said Koviak. “The event gave us the opportunity to review objectives, set goals, and strengthen partnerships, putting into perspective the importance of ‘We the People’ to our mutual success.”
