ORLAND PARK, Ill. And DIAMOND BAR, Calif. -- Organizers of the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) have reported that, to date, the number of exhibitors contracted for the 2010 event is up 64 percent compared with the same time last year. Equally as encouraging is a significant increase in booth sales – up 55 percent from March 2009.

These numbers indicate greater confidence in the economic recovery and foretelling of a strong aftermarket industry footprint in November, according to show owners.

“Increased exhibitor contracts this early in the process is not only a clear sign of an emboldened aftermarket industry, it’s a testament by manufacturers who see the value of meeting face-to-face with domestic and international buyers annually and leveraging the networking opportunities,” said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO.

“Many new, innovative features were introduced at AAPEX 2009 – such as the ‘You Are Here’ interactive kiosks and the ‘SearchAutoParts.com AAPEX Theater,’ as a result of direct feedback solicited from past participants,” said Steve Handschuh, president and COO, Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA). “These attractions and enhancements clearly have breathed new life into AAPEX, as evidenced by the increases in exhibitor contracts and booth sales for 2010. As AAPEX co-owners, we are committed to continuous improvements to the event to increase its value and ROI to all participants.”

AAPEX 2010 is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 2, through Thursday, Nov. 4, at the Sands Expo Center, Las Vegas, AAPEX attendee online registration opens April 1 at www.aapexshow.com.

At the same time, organizers for the annual SEMA Show which also takes place Nov. 2-5 in Las Vegas during Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week, says that exhibitors are demonstrating strong support for the 2010 SEMA Show, based on early booth sales.

Just one week after applications were made available to exhibit at the event, a greater number of companies had committed to exhibiting compared to the same period last year. Many returning manufacturers are also requesting larger booth space in 2010, SEMA officials have reported,

“It’s great to see the industry’s support and confidence in the 2010 SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA VP of events and communications. “We have several programs and features to help manufacturers and buyers connect with one another, share product information, discover new trends and do business. Based on the level of activity and interest, we know that these programs are of value to the industry.”

Although exhibitors can secure space for the SEMA Show up until the event in November, those that submit their applications and deposits by May 7, are able to take advantage of all promotional opportunities and cost-saving benefits available, including the Priority Booth Selection Process.

“The space selection process is the first real step leading up to exhibiting at the SEMA Show,” said MacGillivray. “In addition to selecting the actual location for one’s booth, this process allows us to work with exhibitors on ways they can maximize the return on their investment.”

Account representatives work closely with exhibitors on discount booth packages, drayage options, project vehicle opportunities, media programs and new product promotions. By participating in the booth selection process, exhibitors can learn about the opportunities before key deadlines pass.

To learn more about the event and how to exhibit, visit www.SEMAShow.com.