For four days in February, the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Centre hosted more than 2,900 executives and managers from various sectors for the sold-out 2024 Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week expo.
Themed ‘Fully Equipped’, the event saw an almost 12 per cent jump in overall attendance when compared to last year and hosted more than 330 exhibitors, including 47 who were first time exhibitors.
Representatives within the trailer and trailer manufacturing industry included SAF-Holland, JOST, ZF Aftermarket, Hendrickson, Frasle Mobility and ConMet.
“The resounding success of HDAW’24, marked by substantial growth, underscores the resilience and forward-thinking spirit of heavy-duty aftermarket professionals,” said President and CEO at Midwest Wheel Companies and HDAW’24 co-chair, Michael Callison Jr. “It’s truly gratifying to see our commitment to innovation and collaboration reflected in the record-breaking numbers and vibrant atmosphere of this year’s event.”
According to organisers, the event featured the industry’s largest one-on-one business meeting program, hosting almost 2000 meeting sessions scheduled across three days, and fostering an environment for distributors and suppliers to connect and seize deal-making opportunities.
“The continued interest and success of HDAW’s One-on-One Business Meeting program reflects the commitment of each of the 11 organising associations to fostering impactful connections,” said Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems and HDAW’24 supplier co-chair, Nicole Oreskovic. “The sheer scale of the meetings provided a unique platform for professionals to navigate opportunities and solidify strategic partnerships in our dynamic business landscape.”
Attendees participated in many of the networking programs including the revamped Leaders of Tomorrow program, which provided a platform for emerging professionals to connect and collaborate.
Meanwhile the HDAWomen reception created a space for professionals to support women in the heavy-duty aftermarket industry to build connections, share insights and discuss how to inspire confidence in younger generations.
The event’s education program, said organisers, highlighted the critical elements that will shape the industry in the next three to five years and actionable steps to secure its overall health and viability. Attendees walked away with the most recent updates on topics including electrification, recruitment and retention, and Right to Repair legislation.
“This event is a game-changer for anyone in our industry. Not only does it strengthen your connections with manufacturers, but it also opens doors to explore new product lines,” said attendee from CBS Parts Ltd, Kevin Hopton. “It’s a crucial step in building and growing your business, fostering relationships that prove invaluable.”
Planning for HDAW’25 is already well underway, with the event scheduled to take place 20-23 January, 2025 in Grapevine, Texas.
In other news, Manac is gearing up for growth.
