AAIA Announces New Asian Initiative

2008 Aftermarket Expo in China Planned

LAS VEGAS, NV – October 31, 2006: The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) yesterday unveiled its new Asian Initiative, including hosting the Asian Automotive Aftermarket Expo in Macao, China, at the Venetian facility in 2008. The announcement was made at a press conference in the Venetian during AAPEX.

In addition to the expo in China, AAIA will reinforce its ongoing trade policy and promotions by hosting senior-level aftermarket executives at a seven-day Executive Enrichment Program in Shanghai and Beijing, China in March 2007.

"A recent survey of our members found a high level of interest in learning more about doing business in China and selling products to this rapidly-growing Asian vehicle aftermarket," said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO, AAIA. "The U.S. aftermarket technology, brands, products and delivery system are the best in the world and we want to give our member companies who want to sell in Asia the contacts, knowledge and assistance needed to enter the fast-growth Asian markets."

Schmatz reviewed the findings of AAIA's member survey that inspired the Asian Aftermarket Initiative. More than 78 percent of respondents are currently selling products and/or services to the Chinese market. Of those respondents who are not currently selling in China, 58 percent indicated that they are planning to, according to Schmatz.

Survey respondents indicated that AAIA could best serve their interest and needs in China by:

Identify opportunities for the sale of products and services in China. Help establish joint-venture contacts. Provide information on Chinese business practices and customs. Provide information about government, investment and other regulations. Mort Schwartz, chairman, Jarmms Associates, and longtime AAIA volunteer leader, outlined the AAIA Executive Enrichment Program that will include high-level briefings on political, economic and cultural aspects of the fastest-growing nation in the world. The program will also offer auto parts manufacturing plant and auto parts store and repair shop tours, receptions and dinners with Chinese officials and American aftermarket executives doing business in China, and sightseeing.

AAPEX show manager Bill Glasgow, Sr., W.T. Glasgow, Inc., will manage the Asian Automotive Aftermarket Expo in Macao, China. Referring to Macao as the Las Vegas of Asia, Glasgow provided information on Macao's strategic location and growing reputation as Asia's leisure, entertainment and business destination. He also discussed arrangements with the Venetian Macao.

Lee Kadrich, vice president, government affairs and trade, AAIA, provided details of AAIA's strong global focus.

"By working for global policies and providing open markets, AAIA assists its members in developing new markets worldwide," Kadrich said. "Nowhere is this more vital than in the emerging Asian markets that will soon become the global epicenter of car production and sales."

For more information on AAIA's Asian Initiative, contact Rich White at 301-654-6664 or e-mail rich.white@aftermarket.org.

About AAIA AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 8,000 member companies and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tools, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.