2019 Newsmakers: AASA

Tire Review is showcasing 2019 “Newsmakers” — companies or organizations that have made headlines in the past year with tire-related news about new technology, plant openings, marketing initiatives, dealer program updates, product launches and more — that made the list as determined by top engagement on tirereview.com. After a brief overview of each Newsmakers’ newsworthy item(s), you’ll find a company or organization executive’s answer to this question: What can dealers expect from your company/organization in 2020?

News in 2019

The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association and Auto Care Association made headlines in November after Auto Care CEO Bill Hanvey announced that AAPEX would be expanding in 2020, adding a new tire and tire accessory section as part of a new space called Repair Shop HQ to help meet the needs of today’s service professionals. The expansion also includes a tool and equipment section, a mobile heat transfer/heating/air conditioning section and a Mobility Garage.

Chris Gardner, Senior Vice President:

“Change is coming! The automotive aftermarket industry is finding the resources it needs to stay ahead of technology and industry changes. AAPEX is one of the industry’s greatest resources in tackling these changes and technological advancements.

“Service and repair professionals, shop owners and service writers are an integral part of the aftermarket industry. Providing them expert training and education is a major focus for AAPEX 2020. The end user, those who throw out the box from national service chains and independent repair facilities to OEM dealers, will attend AAPEX to see all the future has in store for them.

“AAPEX is expanding in order to provide attendees the tools they need to succeed in this growing industry. Repair Shop HQ will provide everything service professionals need to prepare their businesses for the future. The new space will include show favorites like Tool and Equipment and Mobility Garage, as well as a new demo area and a brand-new Tire and Tire Accessory Section.

“Mobility Garage training sessions will cover current and future technologies like Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, Diagnostics and Telematics, New Inspection Guidelines, New Battery Technology, Scope and Scanner Testing, Steering and Chassis Technology, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) Calibration.

“Automotive and tire service providers will receive hands-on training in a fully built-out shop on the show floor. Hands-on instructions will feature the country’s leading service and repair trainers. The featured Tire Section will showcase tire manufacturers and suppliers of tire-change equipment, TPMS systems, balancing equipment, predictive analytics and tire-related accessories.

“AAPEX 2020 will help the entire supply chain be more efficient from start to finish, while proactively addressing changes in the industry by presenting solutions. AAPEX is working with the top names in training and tires to ensure the tire service industry is prepared for the future.”

For more of Tire Review’s 2019 Newsmakers, click here.

Check out the rest of the December digital edition of Tire Review here.

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has named Ryan Waldron as president of the company's Americas business unit, reporting to Chief Executive Officer and President Mark Stewart. He succeeds Steven R. McClellan, who retired on April 1.

"At Goodyear, our customers are at the center of everything we do, and in Ryan Waldron, we have a customer-centric, execution-focused business leader with a deep understanding of both the marketplace and all aspects of our business, as well as a proven track record of delivering results," Stewart said. "I am thrilled to announce him as president of Goodyear's Americas business and have enormous confidence that under his leadership, both the company and our customers will reach even greater levels of success."