ORLAND PARK, Ill. – The Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) is making extensive enhancements to its New Packaging Showcase this year by partnering with the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) and Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI).

Through an agreement reached between the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) and member organizations IoPP and PMMI, the New Packaging Showcase will reflect the highest standards of packaging design in the industry, according to AAPEX organizers.

“I hope that our involvement in the AAPEX New Packaging Showcase will demonstrate how well-designed packaging can perform two important functions – protecting the product and enhancing its consumer appeal. We are pleased to support this global competition,” said Patrick Farrey, executive director of IoPP.

Updates to this year’s showcase include:

• Category divisions specifically designed to highlight features of package;

• Online judging by experts from IoPP and PMMI; and

• Expanded onsite New Packaging Showcase display.

Categories include innovation, protection, economics, performance, marketing and environmental impact. Entries are $295 each and must be received by Wednesday, Sept. 15.

For more information and to enter, visit the AAPEX New Packaging Showcase website.

Winners will be announced at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 4, in the AAPEX Theatre, Booth 3063.