VALLEY CITY, Ohio – Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has announced it will be one of the 25 Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) members that plans to participate in the 2014 Latin Auto Parts Expo, being held for the first time July 9-11 in Panama City, Panama. Schaeffler says it is proud to announce its presence at the AAIA pavilion to showcase its commitment to the association and the auto care industry, as well as the opportunities in the strong market that Central America already represents to Schaeffler. 
Following the group’s successful “more” concept, Schaeffler will exhibit its LuK, INA, FAG and Ruville product portfolio tailored to the Central American markets. According to Schaeffler, “more” stands for how the company positions itself as a strategic partner to the independent aftermarket industry worldwide: focusing on customer proximity and comprehensive repair solutions, and backed by first-class support and effective networking for mechanics and their workshops.
"Central America and the Caribbean are very important regions for Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket,” said Dirk Beckmann, vice president for Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket in Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. “This is why, in 2013, we took the strategic and future-orientated decision to set up a warehouse in Cartagena, Colombia, to serve our customers more effectively and in timely manner. From our Cartagena and Mexican warehouses, we can reach the destinations within days whereas in the past – especially with the product from overseas – we formerly needed weeks! This will increase our level of competiveness and make us much more attractive for local distributors. We are looking forward to good discussions and lots of new contacts."
Jens Schüler, president of Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket North America, and Auto International Association (AIA) board member, also will attend the Expo. Regarding Schaeffler’s participation at the Expo and in the Central America region, Schüler said, “Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket is pleased to participate in the 2014 Latin Auto Parts Expo in partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association. Schaeffler has a strong and successful presence in the North American and South American markets. Latin America blends these two markets, resulting in a unique car park. With our strong product coverage in both North and South America, we are well-prepared to offer an attractive product portfolio to customers in Latin America. Schaeffler looks forward to participating in the Expo, and views this is as a valuable opportunity to develop relationships with strategic partners within this growing market.”
Panama is an ideal destination for a trade show, according to Schaeffler. Panama is politically stable, has a free trade agreement in place with the United States, and is a strategic entry point for entering the Latin American marketplace. With vehicles in operation forecasted to grow at 5.2 percent annually over the next five years, the auto care industry in Latin America is projected to grow more than 30 percent over the same period.
