TIA is calling the recently concluded Global Tire Expo "a huge success."

In its second year, the GTE enjoyed both a record number of attendees and exhibitors, TIA said.

The GTE was held as part of the annual SEMA Show, and covered two-thirds of the massive South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

According to TIA, there were more than 132,000 people attending the SEMA Show/GTE, with a record-breaking 61,000 buyers specifically interested in tires.

"The record attendance in Las Vegas demonstrates that the networking opportunities and educational seminars that TIA stages provide true value to independent tire dealers,” said newly installed TIA president Larry Brandt.

TIA also conducted a number of fundraising activities for its TirePac political action committee, with a silent auction and special drawing held at TIA’s annual membership meeting and welcome reception at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. Tire Warehouse president Dan Clark won first place at the PAC Board, and he donated back the full amount of his first place prize of $500.