RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – AASA’s Overseas Automotive Council (OAC) continued its tradition as the global exporting connection at AAPEX 2009.
“The global automotive aftermarket offers tremendous growth potential for the full-service supplier members of AASA,” noted Steve Handschuh, president and COO of AASA. “OAC’s events at AAPEX and throughout the year provide networking with contacts worldwide,” he added.
OAC’s activities during AAPEX 2009 began with a successful pre-AAPEX seminar on Nov. 2 featuring Dr. Timothy Weckesser of Sino-Consulting. Weckesser shared his expertise on the Chinese economy and examined the opportunities and challenges of the Chinese aftermarket.
The council also launched its new Member Lounge adjacent to the AASA Member Center, sponsored by OEC Group.
The AAPEX / OAC International Reception on Nov. 3 attracted nearly 850 participants as the established global networking event at AAPEX. The event was supported by gold level sponsors Federal-Mogul, Remy and US Motor Works, and silver level sponsors Affinia, CARDONE Industries, Cloyes Gear & Products, Falcon Steering Systems Inc., Gates InterAmerica, Honeywell CPG, Intraco/Casite, Melling World Trade, OEC Group and United Components Inc.
F. Carl Smith, vice president and general manager, F.C. Smith Associates LLC in Grand Haven, Mich., was presented Honorary Lifetime OAC Membership at the OAC International Buyers Appreciation Breakfast on Nov. 4 during AAPEX in Las Vegas. More than 60 participants attended the event, sponsored by OEC Group.
“The success of OAC’s events and services at AAPEX 2009 were due to the support of our members and sponsors,” noted Jeremy Denton, OAC executive director. “We look forward to moving the council ahead in 2010 and beyond.”
