Companies, young executives and Canadians!
Recently many people in our industry headed to Las Vegas, Nevada, for the annual AAPEX and SEMA Show events, which deliver a high level of intensity and focus on the aftermarket.
Estimates this year stated that there were more than 165,000 participants taking part in showcasing our aftermarket as an enormous economic contributor; providing education and training on existing and new technology and product offerings, as well as the recognition of many individuals and companies who contribute to and continue to invest their time and boundless effort to support this vital industry.
Consolidation at all levels continues within the industry with some companies getting bigger—covering more product categories, leveraging their ability to serve their clients and growing their market share. Companies are consolidating as part of succession planning, competitive survival, and attempting to grow their business.
The next generation
Additionally, there’s the need to continually introduce the next wave of young people who will be managing this industry in the near future. Via initiatives such as the Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) in the U.S. and the Young Executive Society (YES) in Canada, young executives are starting to take on more responsibility and in growing numbers—an important and intrinsic part of our industry.
It was also great to witness the celebration and recognition being given to women in the automotive industry with awards and achievements for individuals recognized for their leadership, their contribution to category management and successful business ownership at the service provider level.
During AAPEX 2018, the industry also took time to honour those who have been long term contributors to the industry’s success and stability and showcased those individuals for Leadership, Lifetime Achievement, and Pursuit of Excellence.
Witnessing these events left me (as I’m sure it did for many of our readers) with an enormous sense of pride.
Canadians stood out
Canadians also stood out in the crowd! Not just because of our high energy and our sense of humour and camaraderie, but by the end of the week, everyone knew who the Canadians were because we were wearing our poppies! Every year the Canadians wear their poppies to commemorate our fallen heroes as Remembrance Day falls on the 11th of November, the same day as Veterans Day for our American friends. Each and every year, people stop me and ask about the poppy on my lapel and are always impressed that we have been wearing these on behalf of those who have served our country for the last 100 years.
Kudos to The Spirits of Canada committee and the AIA Team for making sure every Canadian attending their events had a poppy to prominently display to show our support!
A long week of meetings, discussions, and education. And now, the follow up and follow through begin as we prepare for a successful conclusion to 2018 and look forward to the year ahead!
