LAS VEGAS – September 30, 2025 – We previously published a blog post about trends to watch at AAPEX 2025. That’s our take on the world of the automotive aftermarket, but we thought it’d be useful to see what’s on the minds of reporters. 

We queried a handful of reporters who told us they are planning to attend the show this year and below is what we heard back. 

1. How product launches connect to the aftermarket

“When I visit a booth at AAPEX, I’m looking for the story behind your new product launches and how they connect to the aftermarket. I also want to hear how you plan to keep that momentum alive beyond the show floor, with a clear strategy for visibility and adoption. The most compelling pitches explain not only what the product is, but why it matters to distributors, shops and to the overall aftermarket, especially in light of trends like electrification, data-driven technology, artificial intelligence and sustainability.”

– Mark Phillips, Editor & Video Host, Aftermarket Intel

2. No agenda – just checking things out

“I’m at AAPEX largely for networking, catching with friends and folks, and checking things out, generally. No particular agenda. Always something new each year.”

– Rob Merwin, Publisher, Aftermarket Matters 

3. The latest trends around consumer habits

“I’m interested in seeing the latest trends around consumer habits, from how they’re buying products, quality grades, purchase preferences, etc. I think it’s interesting to see the effect of the economy on behavior. Additionally, how employer-enforced return-to-office mandates could impact aftermarket business, such DIFM vs DIY trends and the types of customers making purchases — and the types of purchases being made.”

Adam Malik, Editor-in-Chief, Turnkey Media Automotive Group

Media resource available for reporters

AAPEX makes several resources available to the media interested in covering the show:

• On-site media room: The Venetian Level 1 – Casanova.
• Hundreds of high-quality photos from the 2023 and 2024 shows are available online; we will add photos from 2025 as soon as possible.
• AAPEX press releases are published here and exhibitor press releases here.
• Social media channels: X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

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Credentialed media are eligible to receive complimentary passes to AAPEX 2025, which is being held in Las Vegas from November 4-6, 2025. If you are new to AAPEX, start here; if you’ve received a media pass in the past, you can renew here. Questions? Send them to [email protected].

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