MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The upcoming National Convention of the Automotive Distribution Network, to be held Feb. 26–March 1, has sold out the Renaissance Nashville and the Hilton Downtown Hotels, with attendance overflowing into the nearby Sheraton, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network.

“The overwhelming response to the Network’s 2009 National Convention, despite the challenging economy, is remarkable,” Lambert said. “I commend our Parts Plus WDs, auto stores and Car Care Centers for their commitment in these trying times. The fact that we have more registrants for the 2009 gathering in Nashville than we did for our 2007 convention in Las Vegas speaks volumes as to our group’s sense of camaraderie and dedication.”

Because of the unprecedented demand, the Network has added a speaker to its seminar lineup: Scott Hunter, CEO of the Hunter Partnership Alliance, who will, appropriately enough, present The Art of Being Outrageously Successful (In Spite of the Economy). The Network Convention will also feature an Industry Forum, moderated by Babcox group Publisher Jeff Stankard. Forum participants include Jay Burkhart, senior vice president, Global Aftermarket, Federal-Mogul, and Denny Welvaert, president of Dayco, North American Aftermarket, who will be appear alongside Network WDs, jobbers and service dealers to discuss issues facing the industry.

Lambert also salutes the Network’s vendor partners, who will help host the largest Manufacturers Exposition in the association’s convention history, covering 40,000 square feet of space at the Nashville Convention Center. More than 175 manufacturers will be on hand to talk shop and display their latest products, services and promotions