Steve Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will be the keynote speaker for the new General Session at AAPEX on Nov. 5. 
The new General Session replaces the Town Hall breakfast, hosted by the Auto Care Association, and the Executive Breakfast, hosted by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA).
“We are responding to event fatigue that is experienced by our members and others throughout the industry, as time has become a more precious commodity,” said Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “Every product has a life cycle and we had a great run with our Town Hall breakfast. But it’s time for a fresh event that can accommodate more AAPEX attendees.”
“Steve Forbes’ expertise on the global economy is particularly timely, as our industry is in the midst of its largest global growth ever. The new AAPEX General Session, expanded custom programs for the thousands of repair professionals attending the show, and many other enhancements this year are designed to maximize the experience, value and time together in growing our industry and that of our attendees,” said Bill Long, president and chief operating officer, AASA.
The General Session will be hosted from 8-8:50 a.m. on Nov. 5, in The Venetian Palazzo Ballroom. More details will be announced soon, including a possible VIP pre-General Session “meet and greet” and book signing with Forbes and premier seating sponsorship packages.
