Floor plan, schedule released for AAPEX

AAPEX has unveiled its 2025 floor plan, making a few changes it said will make it easier for attendees to find what they need — and who they need to meet.

Also released was the full show schedule. The exhibitor floor plan for this fall’s event includes a major change: Exhibitors will now be grouped by product and service category. The new layout is designed to help buyers navigate the massive show floor more efficiently and connect with the right suppliers.

“Evidence of the industry’s evolution is reflected in the dynamic range of technologies, products and services offered by today’s aftermarket companies,” said Liz Goad, vice president of events at MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, which co-owns the event along with the Auto Care Association. “AAPEX’s complete categorization of the show floor by product segment is a strong example of how we’re working to enhance the experience for both attendees and exhibitors.”

The show will span three halls at The Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum, featuring exhibitors from more than 1,400 product categories. Joe’s Garage — a hands-on training space with 10 working service bays — will return, along with dedicated sections for tools, tire servicing, EVs and international sourcing.

Nearly one-third of exhibitors will represent more than 46 countries, and AAPEX will again offer “international matchmaking” services to connect global buyers and suppliers.

Training and Events Lineup

This fall’s schedule includes more than 75 training sessions across eight learning tracks, including 14 diagnostic sessions from Worldpac and 18 from NAPA Autotech. Innovation stages on the show floor will spotlight emerging topics like EV repair and ADAS calibration.

Key events include:

• AAPEX Reception (Nov. 3, 6–8 p.m.): Open to all, no RSVP needed.
• Keynote Breakfast with Wayne Gretzky (Nov. 4, 6:30–8:45 a.m.): Tickets required.
• Free Buyers Lunch (Daily, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.): Caesars Forum, while supplies last.
• Beers and Gears Networking Reception (Nov. 4, 4–6 p.m.): Joe’s Garage.
• Import Vehicle Community Reception (Nov. 4, 5–6:30 p.m.): Tickets required.
• OAC Global Reception (Nov. 4, 6:30–8 p.m.): Tickets required.
• MEMA Member & Media Briefing (Nov. 5, 7:15–8:45 a.m.): Registration required.
• Women in Auto Care Awards Breakfast (Nov. 5, 7–8:45 a.m.): Tickets required.
• Student Engine Assembly Competition (Nov. 5, 10–11 a.m.): Joe’s Garage.
• Women in Auto Care and Allies Reception (Nov. 5, 5–6 p.m.): Open to all.

“The automotive aftermarket is facing a lot of uncertainty as the supply chain gets rewired,” said Mark Bogdansky, vice president of meetings and events at the Auto Care Association. “The changes we’ve made and events we’ve added are designed to help the tens of thousands of buyers in attendance find what they need fast.”

AAPEX 2025 registration is now open. Passes are $75 until Sept. 26, rising to $100 after. Training sessions are $150 each or $400 for a five-session bundle.