The AASA Vision Conference concluded its first day after achieving near record-setting attendance in its new digital format. The virtual gathering provided aftermarket executives with deep insights on a range of crucial topics, trends and issues.
Paul McCarthy, AASA president & COO, opened the conference with a session highlighting current industry challenges and the bright aftermarket future ahead.
Randy Buller, president of Parts Authority, explored the benefits of implementing and executing a hybrid distribution model, especially in challenging and uncertain times.
Session leader Mark Barrott, Plante Moran, explored the current and future state of the economy with industry analysts in the session, “The 3 Dragons, Last Battle: Debating the Economy and the Aftermarket.” Debating “dragons” Bill Strauss, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Simeon Gutman, Morgan Stanley, and Brad Smith, Experian, shared their perspectives on what aftermarket executives can expect given the recent coronavirus pandemic and other macroeconomic factors.
Ann Wilson, MEMA senior VP of Government Affairs, discussed the legislative environment regarding the aftermarket and the coronavirus pandemic. Wilson highlighted MEMA’s recent actions to advocate for the aftermarket as “essential” and explained the impact of the new stimulus package on aftermarket businesses.
Derek Kaufman, Schwartz Advisors managing partner, showcased a new way to approach developing strategies. Through a series of enlightening case studies focused on new technologies, Kaufman made the case for suppliers developing insights and making decisions “from the shop floor up” to gain a competitive edge.
Bill Long, MEMA president and CEO, discussed MEMA’s strategic initiatives aimed at ensuring a vibrant aftermarket future and shared insights on how suppliers can work together and engage in government advocacy.
On its second day, The AASA Vision Conference will explore more critical issues, including electrification, the car as a computer, the investment community’s perspective of the aftermarket, the annual member-only program, a special session for channel partners and non-members, and more.
Additional information about the virtual AASA Vision Conference can be accessed by visiting aasavision.com.