Due to growing concerns surrounding COVID-19 (coronavirus), the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) announced it will transition the AASA Vision Conference to an online experience. The conference, which was originally scheduled for March 26 in Rosemont, Illinois, will now take place virtually from March 25-27. The three-day format will enable attendees to experience the originally scheduled speakers and subject matter in a focused, content-rich and interactive exchange of ideas.
AASA is taking several measures to ease the transition from an on-site event to a digital experience. The association will issue an automatic 30% refund to all attendees. New registrants will be able to participate in the conference at a 30% discount from the original price.
Conference login credentials will grant attendees remote access to all AASA Vision Conference sessions, presentations, resources and online interactions.
AASA added a new webinar in advance of the Vision Conference to explore the immense effect the coronavirus is having on aftermarket supply chains, the China aftermarket and the legal environment and to help prepare attendees for the unique conference format.
“We regret that this shift may introduce uncomfortable complications for our member organizations and the industry, but we believe this is the responsible course of action at this time,” said Paul McCarthy, AASA president and COO. “The online Vision experience will bring the aftermarket executive community tremendous value, albeit in a new format.”
Council meetings scheduled during AASA Vision Conference will be held as online meetings between March 31 and May 6. Terry Sakiewicz, senior manager, Councils and Engagement, will provide more information to council members shortly.
The presentation of the 2020 Channel Excellence Award presented by Epicor has been rescheduled for March 27, the third day of the digital Vision Conference. The creative videos submitted by the three award finalists will be played during the event.
Epicor Software Corp. is the premier sponsor of the 2020 AASA Vision Conference, and other sponsors include: N.A. Williams Co., Inc., Corcentric, Plante Moran PLLC, Robert Bosch LLC, Tasco Sales Reps, OptiCat, Experian Automotive, MontAd Media, IHS Markit, Snap36, Surys, Classy Llama, Paramount Data Management GmbH, APA Search Inc, Rightsize, and Your Car. Your Data. Your Choice.
Additional information about the virtual AASA Vision Conference can be accessed here.
