CHICAGO — The 16th annual Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) kicks off today in Chicago. The yearly leadership event for automotive aftermarket professionals will begin with opening remarks from GAAS Chairman Dave Caracci and an update on the GAAS Scholarship program from Scholarship Chair Pete Kornafel, followed by a presentation on the post-recession economic outlook by William Strauss, senior economist with the Chicago Federal Reserve.

Also on the agenda for the day-and-a-half event are a slate of informative presentations and panel discussions on such topics as emerging markets, the business side of racing, opportunities in the South American aftermarket, outlooks from Wall Street and Detroit and a look at the role women play in the industry — both within and as consumers.

Stay tuned for upcoming exclusive reports from AMN editors attending the event this week in Chicago.