AAPEX 2026 registration is now open

Registration is now open for AAPEX 2026, where automotive aftermarket professionals from around the world can gather for networking and deal‑making.

AAPEX 2026 will take place Nov. 3 to 5 at the Venetian Expo and AAPEX Forum in Las Vegas. The annual business‑to‑business tradeshow brings together suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers and independent repair shops from across the $2.3‑trillion global automotive aftermarket. The show is co‑produced by the Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers.

The theme for 2026 is “where the industry gets real,” reflecting AAPEX’s emphasis on practical outcomes rather than spectacle. Organizers said while the show continues to deliver an engaging atmosphere, attendees travel from more than 120 countries primarily to conduct business, build relationships and source products.

“AAPEX is a defining event for the automotive aftermarket because it’s a venue for business networking that drives tangible outcomes,” said Mark Bogdansky, vice‑president of trade shows and community engagement at the Auto Care Association. “That’s our North Star for organizing the show every year: make it easy for attendees and buyers to find what they need and meet their business goals.”

That focus appears to resonate with attendees. In a post‑show survey of 906 participants last year, 86 per cent said they met their objectives for discovering new products and innovations, 81 per cent said they were successful in finding and evaluating new suppliers, and 92 per cent said they achieved their goals for maintaining existing relationships.

AAPEX 2026 will feature 550,000 square feet of exhibit space covering more than 1,400 product categories, with more than 2,500 exhibitors across 5,500 booths. The redesigned show floor will again emphasize ease of navigation, while educational programming will address real‑world challenges facing the aftermarket. Mini stages throughout the show will host free sessions, demonstrations and debates, and Joe’s Garage will offer hands‑on training covering topics such as diagnostics, ADAS, EV service, shop management and workforce development.

The new AAPEX Forum will host the opening reception and general sessions, and student programming will return, including the second annual student competition for aspiring automotive technicians. Organizers also hinted that several high‑profile celebrity appearances may occur throughout the show.

AAPEX 2026 will also introduce iFlex at AAPEX for the first time, creating a dedicated section for quick lube operators from the International Fast Lube Expo. The addition follows a joint announcement earlier this year by AAPEX and the Preventive Automotive Maintenance Association.

“The iFlex at AAPEX exhibit area reflects how our industry continues to evolve to meet changing vehicle technologies and a growing need for preventative maintenance,” said Liz Goad, vice‑president of events at MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. “With more vehicles on the road than ever before, the automotive aftermarket plays an essential role in keeping them safe, reliable and on the road.”

Early registration for AAPEX 2026 is priced at $50 until June 26. The fee increases to $75 until Sept. 25 and to $100 thereafter. Training sessions are priced at $150 each, with multi‑session discounts available. Qualified vocational students and accredited media may register for complimentary passes. AAPEX recommends attendees book accommodations early through onPeak, the show’s official housing partner, with shuttle service provided.