Complete 2024 SEMA / AAPEX Guide

SETTING THE STAGE: SEMA vs. AAPEX

‍Nestled in the Vegas each November lies two of the automotive industry's biggest events – SEMA and AAPEX. While both expositions revolve around the automotive aftermarket sphere, they cater to distinct facets of the industry. Understanding and capitalizing on their unique attributes can be the game-changer in your expo experience.

DELVING DEEPER: About the Shows

SEMA

From its 1963 inception with a focus on specialty automotive parts, SEMA has evolved into a vast ecosystem catering to numerous automotive sectors.

Who’s There: Its audience spans manufacturers, retailers, publishers, auto restorers, and a plethora of other stakeholders.Product Focus: SEMA is best known for showcasing specialty automotive parts, which include aftermarket modifications, performance parts, and unique equipment. This can range from high-performance engine components to custom wheels, body kits, and even in-car entertainment systems.

Event Nature: Apart from product showcases, SEMA has evolved into an industry extravaganza, with networking events, industry discussions, and trade showcases. It’s more than just a trade show; it’s a major event in the automotive calendar where innovations are often unveiled.

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AAPEX

Established in 1995, AAPEX quickly became the cornerstone of the automotive aftermarket supply chain. AAPEX represents the over $1.8 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry, and is co-owned by the Auto Care Association and MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association.

Who Attends: It’s a hub for the automotive aftermarket supply chain professionals – from parts suppliers and manufacturers to service chains and fleet buyers.

AAPEX Attractions: Centered on auto upkeep, its highlights include the New Product Showcase and the futuristic Mobility Garage.

Product Focus: The main emphasis of AAPEX is on the “keep it running” segment of the automotive world. This translates to products and services related to auto repair, maintenance, and general automotive upkeep. It includes replacement parts, service equipment, tools, and any product or service aimed at ensuring vehicles remain functional long after their initial purchase.

Event Nature: AAPEX serves as a central hub where industry professionals come to discuss trends, showcase new products in the repair and maintenance segment, and establish business connections. It’s a vital event for those working in aftermarket or repair businesses to establish and build new relationships.

Location & Logistics

SEMA

Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada. Showcases specialty automotive parts, ranging from performance components to in-car entertainment system.‍

AAPEX

The Venetian Expo &  Caesars Forum. Las Vegas, NV. Concentrates on auto repair, maintenance, and parts replacement.

Professionals often attend both SEMA and AAPEX due to their overlapping schedules and nearby venues in Las Vegas, making the first week of November pivotal for the automotive industry. A single ticket grants admission to both events, but attendees must be industry professionals. Vendors are allowed two visits before needing to buy a booth.

PRO TIP: If you are looking for a quite place to talk, both SEMA and AAPEX have meeting rooms that can be reserved for association members.

Networking and Education

GENERAL AAPEX SESSION

Registration Open: Monday, November 4 • 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM - Location: The Venetian Expo, Level 1 Lobby & Caesars Forum, Lobby outside of the Forum Ballroom.

Women in Auto Care Networking Breakfast: Wednesday, November 6 • 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM • Location: The Venetian Hotel, Titian Ballroom 2201 • This year’s breakfast will include a Q&A with the four 2024 Women of Excellence Award winners.

‍GENERAL SEMA SESSIONS

Expanding Diversity in Motorsports: A Shift Towards Inclusion: Tuesday, November 5 • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM PT • Location: W316 • This session will explore the need for diversity in motorsports, focusing on some of the obstacles, advances and opportunities within racing series, manufacturers, and those supporting the automotive and motorsports industry.

Marketing Your Business and Creating Lifetime Customer Values: Tuesday, November 5 • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM PT • Location: W311 • Dive into a session tailored for entrepreneurs and marketers eager to elevate their marketing strategies and nurture long-lasting customer relationships. This workshop is essential for those aiming to stand out in a competitive business landscape.

SEMA BUSINESS WOMAN'S NETWORK

The SEMA Women’s Leadership Symposium: Wednesday, November 6 • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM • Location: W326 • This empowering event serves as a platform for women leaders to convene, collaborate and catalyze change in their respective fields and communities.

FUTURE LEADERS NETWORK

What is it?: The FLN connects young industry leaders (39 years or younger) with opportunities to network with other SEMA members and influential industry figures. FLN members represent top minds in technology, marketing, sales, operations, and leadership within the automotive industry.

Professional Development: FLN offers a two-day Professional Development Program in partnership with Dale Carnegie, aimed at enhancing individual and business performance for aspiring leaders.

“The Future Leaders Network is committed to helping aspiring leaders advance in the industry,” said FLN Chair Matt Beenen. “Partnering with a world-class organization such as Dale Carnegie is just one example of what we are doing to invest in the membership. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to participate in the Dale Carnegie Training, and I’m excited that other FLN members will have access to the program as well.”

‍ YOUNG AUTO CARE NETWORK

What is it?: YANG is the hub for under-40 professionals in the auto care industry, offering a dynamic community where members can network, develop new skills, and enhance leadership capabilities.

APSG AfterGlow Party! Wednesday, November 6 • 9:00 pm – Midnight • Location: The Venetian Convention & Expo Center, Palazzo Ballroom (5th Floor) • The theme is 80's complete with band, drinks, and passed appetizers (think neons/glow items/etc) - Roped or set area for YANG

WOMEN IN AUTO CARE NETWORKING EVENT

Purpose: This event connects, empowers, and mentors women in the auto care industry through a variety of activities focused on personal and professional development.

Impact: The conference provides valuable tools, insights, and networking opportunities, helping women in the automotive aftermarket industry innovate and lead effectively.

Women in Auto Care Breakfast: Tuesday, November 6 • 07:00 AM - 08:45 AM • Gives AAPEX attendees a chance to connect with the community over a cup of coffee, outside of the busy show hours.

Sign up for email alerts from SEMA to receive updates about the show, including educational sessions and networking events. Look at the AAPEX Show website. Sign up for email alerts From SEMA to receive updates about the show, including educational sessions and networking events.

General Hours and Show Sections

Pre-Show Prep: Do your homework

Research: Familiarize yourself with the list of exhibitors, guest speakers, and seminar topics. Identify which aligns with your goals.

Tools:  Equip yourself with the event apps or online tools. They often have features that allow attendees to schedule meetings, bookmark exhibitors, and even create personal event maps.

It's best to schedule time before SEMA by reaching out to...to schedule a time to chat at the show. This way, we will be prepared to reserve enough time to answer any questions you have at the best time for you. ~ Charles Palleschi, CEO of Spark Shipping

EVENT LAYOUT & NAVIGATION

Begin your first day by studying the event map. Mark the exhibitors and areas you wish to prioritize. This will save countless hours wandering aimlessly. While it’s tempting to delve deep everywhere, time is finite. Prioritize based on your primary objectives but leave pockets of free time for unexpected discoveries or impromptu meetings.

Leveraging Data for Effective Partnerships

For auto part sellers looking to make the most out of an event like SEMA, diving deep into data-driven reports is paramount. Let's outline the key reports that sellers should prioritize, both to nurture supplier relationships and to fortify ties with software vendors.

NURTURING RELATIONSHIPS WITH PRODUCT SUPPLIERS

Historical Sales Analysis Report: This report offers a comprehensive view of past sales, helping sellers identify which products performed well and which lagged behind. It should ideally provide monthly or quarterly breakdowns to highlight seasonal trends.

Product Segmentation Report: A focused report classifying products based on their sales performance, enabling sellers to engage in more tailored discussions with suppliers.

"Focus on a curated assortment. Whether you’re a brand/manufacturer or parts seller, typically only a portion of your catalog makes up the majority of interest and sales. Focusing on optimizing these winners and high margin lines will ensure you don’t get lost in the minutiae of selling and supporting broad catalog selling." - Jason Nadaf, Suredone‍

BESPOKE SUPPLIER STRATEGIES:

Sales Projection Report: Using charts and graphs to visualize future sales trends is a powerful tool during supplier meetings. These projections, based on past data and market insights, can dictate future stock requirements.

Product Performance & Feedback Report: A consolidated report that gathers customer feedback, return rates, and overall product performance. This data fosters trust and collaboration between sellers and suppliers.

"Make sure you reach out to your sales representative and find out if they will be attending the show! We love connecting with our customers in-person when we’re both attending an event. Even if they’re not able to attend, you should stop by our booths, check out our displays, and meet some of the other members of the T14 team, including folks from our Sales, Accounting, Support, and Integrations team." - Dan Zeigler, Turn14

STRENGTHENING TIES WITH SOFTWARE VENDORS:

Software Performance Review Report:

Informed Tech Integration: An analytical report that evaluates the effectiveness and ROI of past software tools, platforms, and integrations. It helps sellers pinpoint areas of improvement and identify which tools truly align with their business needs.

Future Tech Needs Assessment Report: By gauging business growth patterns and juxtaposing them with future aspirations, sellers can outline what tech enhancements they’ll require. This report can then guide discussions on scalability and future integrations at SEMA.

User Feedback & Feature Request Report: Consolidate feedback on software tools, along with any feature requests or improvements, to facilitate meaningful discussions with software vendors.

"Software vendors are in search of genuine, actionable feedback. By presenting them with detailed reports on user experience, current challenges, and future needs, sellers align software solutions with their business trajectory." - Lauren McCullough CEO of Tromml

Concluding Thoughts

Both SEMA and AAPEX are platforms rife with opportunities. The distinction between a good and a great experience hinges on how you interact. By tailoring your approach to each show's unique ambiance and being proactive in engagement, you can convert fleeting interactions into lasting partnerships.