New China Aftermarket Forum Launched

(Akron/Tire Review) MEMA’s Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) has established the China Aftermarket Forum, a new discussion group for aftermarket executives heading their businesses’ Chinese operations. The China Aftermarket Forum will meet quarterly to discuss industry issues and solutions, share best practices and network with peers.

“China is a fast growing market with more than 20 million vehicles on the road already and new cars sales in 2004 of more than 5 million. We are forming this group to meet the needs of our members with operations in China selling products in the country’s aftermarket,” said Paul Foley, AASA president. “We are discovering that China will be a very unique market with complicated dynamics and there aren’t lessons learned that can be shared. Dialogue among peers will be instrumental for companies of all sizes to share experiences and shape the market.”

The China Aftermarket Forum, said MEMA, is based on AASA’s European Aftermarket Forum, formed in 2004. The new group will hold an organizational meeting 23 August in Shanghai.

For details about AASA or the China Automotive Aftermarket Manufacturers Council, contact Paul Foley, vice president of AASA, 919-406-8840 or pfoley@mema.org.