AAPEX 2023: Helpful tips and guide

Oct. 23, 2023
Before you hit the show floor, be sure to check out this guide to make the most of your time and experience. See you in Vegas!

Drawing in over 2,500 exhibiting companies from around the world, it’s no wonder why AAPEX is the place to be to keep up on the latest automotive aftermarket products, services, and technologies.

But before you start packing, we recommend downloading the free AAPEX 2023 mobile app. Whether you’ve attended before or it’s your first year, downloading this handy app will prove to be useful. With it, you can customize your schedule, search by exhibitor or product category, and easily navigate the show floor. 

Come meet our team! Visit us at AAPEX (booth #A3626) and at SEMA (booth #41078)!

Once the show officially kicks off with its annual AAPEX Reception on Monday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. and Keynote Session (don't miss your chance to see keynote speaker Earvin “Magic” Johnson) on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 6:30 a.m., you’ll be sure to find yourself in an automotive enthused crowd. There is much to see and do at this industry event, but don’t worry. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time and experience.

Industry trends

Looking to keep up with the ever-changing automotive aftermarket industry? These sessions are for you.

Trends Impacting the North American Aftermarket

When: Tuesday, Oct. 31 at 11 a.m.

Location: The Venetian, Titian Ballroom 2204

An annual overview, presented by Todd Campau from S&P Global Mobility (formerly HIS Markit), of key industry trends (including the path to electrification and the new vehicle market) and new insight affecting the global aftermarket. Find out how these trends in the vehicle fleet are impacting aftermarket repair opportunities faster than ever before.

Joint EV Trends and Outlook Forecast – Annual Update

When: Tuesday, Oct. 31 at 1:30 p.m.

Location: The Venetian, EV Experience Stage (Level 1, Booth J7409)

Hear from a panel of experts on how companies across the aftermarket are adapting and planning for increased EV adoption.

Aftermarket Outlook 2024

When: Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 11 a.m.

Location: The Venetian, Titian Ballroom 2204

At this year’s aftermarket outlook session, Circana’s Executive Director and Industry Analyst, Nathan Shipley, will cover the trends observed both in general retail and the aftermarket over the last two years and why understanding what drove sales performance during that time is critical for predicting what the near-term future might look like for our industry. The presentation will also provide perspective on how macro trends – both industry-specific and more general in nature – might play into future results.

Training and education

Interested in more in-depth training? This year, over 35 technical, leadership, and shop management training sessions will be presented by elite trainers.

Click here for the training schedule. (Additional cost may be required) 

For EV-specific training sessions, be sure to check out the new EV Experience

Located within Joe’s Garage (Level 1, Booth J7409), the EV Experience stage will host free expert-led education sessions. Throughout the show, various companies will highlight their latest EV products and advancements as well as provide training and insights.

Click here for the education sessions lineup. 

New tools and equipment

When it comes to service and repair, tools are king. So be sure to check out all the newest tools and equipment on Level 2 of the Venetian Expo in Automotive Aftermarket Central. Although you’ll see an abundance of tools and equipment on display at exhibitor’s booths, here you’ll find new products making their debut at the event (and clearly displayed in the 2023 New Product and Packaging Showcases).

Networking events

Aside from walking the show floor, viewing new-to-market tools, and attending training sessions, AAPEX has even more to offer. There are also many additional opportunities to network with like-minded individuals, such as by attending: 

Lastly, this year AAPEX is hosting a new Service and Repair Reception to celebrate shop owners, service advisors, and technicians. The event is free and will take place Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. in Joe’s Garage (Level 1). 

We hope to see you at AAPEX. Don’t forget to visit our booth — #A3626 — to meet our team, grab some coffee, and pick up a copy of our latest issue!

About the Author

Kayla Nadler | Associate Editor | Vehicle Repair Group

Kayla (Oschmann) Nadler was previously an associate editor for the Vehicle Repair Group.

With an education in journalism and public relations, Nadler contributed to Professional Tool & Equipment News (PTEN) and Professional Distributor magazines, as well as VehicleServicePros.com.

Sponsored Recommendations

Coming in 2025...

New year, new articles – let’s talk what’s new in 2025.

In Focus: GEARWRENCH Diagnostic Tools - GWSCAN, GWSMARTBT, and GWSMART07

The new GEARWRENCH diagnostic tools offer free software updates.

That's a wrap

In this article, we cover the basics you need to make the sale — planning, preparing, demonstrating, and more.

Hot to go

With the painted flames blazing on the sides of this truck, technicians always know when this distributor has arrived.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!