RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – Advance Auto Parts has brought new thinking to the automotive aftermarket over the past few years – and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) is providing the industry a unique forum to hear Advance discuss its perspective at the AASA Executive Breakfast at AAPEX, set for 7-8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 30, Ballrooms B-D at The Venetian.
As part of this year’s theme, “New Thinking for the Aftermarket,” Advance COO Kevin Freeland will discuss Advance’s industry outlook and participate with AASA President and COO Steve Handschuh in an audience question and answer session.
“Our intense focus on our company values and our promise, ‘Service Is Our Best Part,’ combined with strong industry dynamics have allowed us to grow our business and profitability,” Freeland said. “I’m looking forward to addressing the AASA Executive Breakfast and discussing our positive growth, as well as the long-term fundamentals of our industry.”
“The AASA Breakfast at AAPEX has gained the reputation as the event where the leading trends and outlook for industry are discussed,” said Handschuh. “Kevin’s insights into the unique perspective Advance brings to the industry will be certain to challenge the traditional ways of thinking of AASA supplier members and other channel partners.”
Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., Advance Auto Parts operates 3,692 stores in 39 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Freeland has served as Advance’s chief operating officer since January 2009 and is responsible for the supply chain, merchandising, marketing, e-commerce, information technology and real estate functions. He joined Advance in February 2008 as executive vice president, merchandising, supply chain and information technology. His prior professional career also includes serving as president and founder of Optimal Advantage, a boutique retail consulting firm, and executive positions at Best Buy and Payless Shoe Source.
“As is our tradition at the AASA Executive Breakfast during AAPEX, we anticipate a lively question and answer session between Kevin and the audience of top aftermarket professionals,” Handschuh continued. “This very popular portion of our program always provides insights for attendees and speakers alike.”
More than 600 attendees are expected at this year’s AASA Executive Breakfast during AAPEX. The audience will include executives from top North American automotive aftermarket suppliers and management teams from the leading aftermarket resellers and distributors.
Tables of 10 can be reserved for $850; individual tickets are $95. Tables and tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.
Ernst & Young is the exclusive AASA Executive Breakfast sponsor. OTC, Robinair and Actron are the sponsors of the coffee break.
