What are the top automotive trends that will soon impact the aftermarket? Find out the answers in a Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) 2014 presentation by Bill Long, president and chief operating officer of AASA and Mark Seng, global aftermarket practice leader for IHS Automotive. Long and Seng will present their findings on “What’s Driving Change Now? Top Trends and the Aftermarket Implications,” on Tuesday, May 20 from 2:20 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The presentation will provide both an overview of key trends and a look at how they will impact the aftermarket over the next eight to 10 years.
“One of the trends we’ll touch on is the accelerating globalization of OEM production and the increased leveraging of global platforms,” explained Seng. “As OEMs ‘chase’ the increasing global VIO, they are looking to transform their global production footprint. The aftermarket must understand the new and evolving world of global platforms and modular architecture in order to maximize the efficiency of the aftermarket global supply chain.”
In addition, Seng says the presentation will challenge the aftermarket to understand OEMs who are utilizing technology to both meet the increasing CAFE standards, “but also to change consumer behavior and build a relationship with the car owner beyond the standard warranty period.”
Long and Seng point out that industry leaders will not want to miss this exciting mix of industry forecast and the in-depth analysis of its impact on aftermarket businesses.
The 2014 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), “Connected,” will take place May 20 to 21 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill. To download the registration brochure and view the latest copy of the agenda, visit www.globalsymposium.org. The two-day Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium, now in its 19th year, brings together industry leaders and experts to examine the issues and trends affecting the worldwide automotive aftermarket and influencing its future. Each year the net proceeds of GAAS are invested in the organization’s scholarship fund to help students get their automotive aftermarket career started. Additional scholarship funding comes from industry contributions from individuals, companies and foundations. To date GAAS, has awarded scholarships to more than 1,800 students representing $1.8 million in aid.
For more information on GAAS 2014, visit www.globalsymposium.org or phone 301-654-6664. You can also connect with GAAS through Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Twitter.