ORLAND PARK, Ill. – A strong showing by international buyers is anticipated at AAPEX this year based on promotional reports from U.S. Department of Commerce commercial specialists in a number of foreign countries, according to AAPEX organizers. 

AAPEX is certified as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) International Buyer Program. Show management and co-sponsoring associations have worked extensively with DOC commercial specialists at U.S. consulate offices in other countries to promote international buyer attendance at AAPEX.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the AAPEX ROI for our exhibitors, we have worked hard this year to make the 2009 event the most cost-effective venue in North America to meet with offshore buyers and distributors,” said Steve Handschuh, president and COO of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA.) “We are seeing a growth in interest from potential international attendees, which will help our exhibitors reach new markets for their quality, North American aftermarket products.”

AAPEX draws buyers from virtually every industry segment throughout North America and more than 150 other countries including manufacturers, wholesalers, warehouse distributors, jobbers, retailers, independent service providers, technicians, parts stores, manufacturers’ reps, exporters, importers and packagers.

“The International Buyers Program is one of the best kept secrets about AAPEX, yet one of the most effective strategies to draw large numbers and delegations of qualified international buyers to our trade show,” said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA.)

The AAPEX Web site, www.aapexshow.com, includes a list of exhibitors, and buyers can also use the Web site to find products, network with exhibitors and view the latest educational offerings.