Autopromotec Show Targets “UK Aftermarket Decision Makers”

Show organiser Promotec is calling for UK manufacturers, distributors, motor factors, repair specialists and bodyshops to “seek new buying and supply partnerships” at its international exhibition of automotive equipment and aftermarket products Autopromotec. The organiser expects an increased number of exhibitors to attend the 2011 show on 25–29 May, at the Bologna Trade Fair Centre, Italy. Autopromotec 2009 attracted a record 1,443 exhibiting companies from 47 countries and 101,620 visitors from all over the world. The UK looks likely to be the fourth largest overseas exhibitor, behind the USA, Germany and China. A new section of the show dedicated to heavy duty parts and equipment is also designed to attract specialists from this market for the first time, the organiser states.

Renzo Servadei, managing director of Promotec, says: “The UK has a thriving and important aftermarket, but a shortage of specialised trade fairs on its home turf. Not only is Autopromotec a huge and growing industry event; it’s also the only opportunity to meet many international exhibitors who don’t attend other events. Autopromotec is also where real business is done. Our Autopromotec Observatory valued the business turnover generated by the 2009 show at 1 billion euros – so it really is an unmissable opportunity for UK buyers and suppliers. We urge both visitors and potential exhibitors to come to Bologna in May, and see Autopromotec for themselves.”

Held in the heart of Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’, Autopromotec features equipment and tools for body repairs, diagnostics, vehicle lifts, tyres and tyre equipment and car wash equipment. Autopromotec 2011 will place an increased emphasis on heavy duty vehicle parts and equipment, as it continues to pursue its goal of becoming “the international meeting point for the entire aftermarket”.

Commenting on the new initiative Renzo Servadei explains: “Industrial vehicles, and in general the entire sectors related to them, have suffered enormously during this recession. We want to provide some real help to the whole aftermarket by promoting interaction between industry members and creating, we hope, new business opportunities and important synergies.”

Autopromotec’s heavy duty exhibitors will be clearly marked and a dedicated exhibitor guide will be produced with a segment-specific logo. A special meeting and “matching-up” area will also be set up to foster relations and trade exchanges between truck manufacturers and suppliers.
 
The 2011 show will also feature a number of special events including a symposium on the automotive aftermarket, and the annual assembly of the International Federation of Automotive Aftermarket Distributors. Attention will also be given to sustainable mobility, with special programmes now being organised.

Promotec has revamped the show’s website, adding new content and allowing travel and accommodation to be booked directly online through an agreement with an international tour operator. Visitors can also book their tickets online, and exhibitors can reserve their exhibition space.