The 2007 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) will take place Tuesday, Oct. 30 and run through Thursday, Nov. 1, at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. Buyers and exhibitors are reminded that the event runs three days, similar to the 2006 AAPEX schedule.

"The response from exhibitors to a three-day show has been very positive," said Bill Glasgow, Sr., AAPEX show manager. "It allows them to maximize their time and resources at the show. Plus, pre-show planning tools like our online matchmaking tool, NetZone, lets exhibitors and buyers do their planning, shopping and appointment scheduling long before they ever get to the show."

AAPEX is focused on showcasing more globally recognized brands and cutting-edge technology for the automotive aftermarket, with more than 2,000 exhibitors and nearly 5,000 booths. It features every brand of replacement parts and a tool and equipment section with more than 150 companies. The New Product and New Packaging showcases line the entryway to the show, providing a glimpse of the latest product innovations and packaging trends that will be on the shelves of retail outlets and service centers in 2008.

AAPEX attracts buyers from virtually every industry segment, including manufacturers, wholesalers, warehouse distributors, jobbers, retailers, independent service providers, technicians, parts stores, manufacturers’ reps, exporters, importers and packagers. It also draws a strong and growing international audience of buyers from more than 150 countries, and is certified as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce International Buying Program.

In addition to the trade show, the AAPEX educational program delivers critical data and information to increase profitability. Previous sessions have focused on consumer buying trends, global issues, competing with car dealers, achieving additional profits and partnering with customers.

There are also plenty of celebrities at AAPEX, including race car drivers, television and sports personalities and well-known stars. Last year’s event featured more than 40 celebrities.

Companies interested in exhibiting at AAPEX should contact show management, W.T. Glasgow, Inc., by phone at (708) 226-1300, fax (708) 226-1310 or e-mail [email protected]. The annual online space drawing for booth selection will being in mid- to late April.

Buyer registration will open in early May and may be done online at http://www.aapexshow.com. Buyers who have previously attended AAPEX may use their alumni number to expedite the registration process and receive show credentials in the mail prior to AAPEX. Alumni numbers will be issued via a series of mailings and e-blasts.