Saying that AAPEX is poised to be “even more of an aftermarket homecoming celebration than ever before,” AutoCare Association president and CEO Bill Hanvey declared that plans continue apace for AAPEX 2020 in Las Vegas, November 3-5, 2020.

Hanvey says that the situation continues to be fluid, and that AAPEX plans will hinge to a large extent of federal and state mandates. “Really, unless the state of Nevada or the federal government tells us otherwise, we are on with AAPEX and the AWDA conference as scheduled.”

In the event of a government mandated cancellation, Hanvey says the plan is to provide a 50% refund, and apply the other 50% to the 2021 event.

In keeping step with similar announcements by the SEMA show held the same week, AAPEX has posted that exhibitors will be able to cancel and receive a full 100% refund on their booth space until September 1.

Paul McCarthy, president and COO of AASA, says that while the associations understand the immense challenges aftermarket organizations are facing, “nonetheless, there is reason for hope. Miles driven are beginning to pick up. Wall Street has identified the aftermarket as a valuable investment opportunity. And our industry has been essential throughout this crisis. Which is a testament to our importance to the American and global economy.”

McCarthy says that the prospect of delaying the show is not good as Las Vegas does not have an available slot for AAPEX. “I’d also like to point out that our partners at SEMA are very positive about their show and are committed to moving forward with their show.” McCarthy also pointed out that while at the present time it is difficult to see how the situation might be even a few short months down the road, “But what we do know is this: we are a relationship industry.”

McCarthy emphasize that they will be following all available expert guidance to protect attendee and exhibitor personnel, as well as watching other events that precede AAPEX at the Sands and the Venetian.

“We will be watching those other shows. We will be learning from them. We will make sure that AAPEX is building on the lessons learned.”

Hanvey says that exhibitor bookings are tracking similar to 2019, and that similar optimism is being shown on the buyer registration side.

“We want this to be a profitable show for you and I think that’s critical to ensure that the industry is successful and that going into 2021 that there’s optimism, and that optimism is built at the show.”

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