2024 Keystone BIG Show Panel Announced
Date postedFebruary 15, 2024
Exeter, PA - Keystone Automotive Operations, the leading distributor and marketer of specialty automotive aftermarket equipment and accessories, has announced a compelling panel discussion featuring some of the industry’s most respected leaders as the showcase event to open the 2024 Keystone BIG Show Presented by Weather Guard. Set to be held February 23-24, 2024, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida, the BIG Show delivers an experience where innovation and collaboration will take center stage alongside the suppliers and customers that fuel the automotive aftermarket.The panel, titled "Revolutionizing the Ride: The Relationship between OEMs and Aftermarket
Accessories in the Automotive Landscape," will feature representatives from OEM manufacturers,
suppliers and retailers providing insights from their perspectives on how and why aftermarket products
are integrated into automakers’ product offerings and the effect on the industry. Ford Motor Company
Vehicle Personalization Chief Designer Steve Gilmore, is among the confirmed participants, offering his
unique perspective on the evolving relationship between OEMs and aftermarket brands.
Joining Steve on the panel will be respected industry leaders including Mike Spagnola, President of the
Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), Real Truck Chief Growth Officer Tony Ambroza, as well
as Brad Akins from Akins Ford and Wild Willies Custom Accessories representing the independent
aftermarket retail sector. Together, the panel will provide a comprehensive view of the industry
landscape, addressing key challenges and opportunities facing OEMs and aftermarket brands alike. The
presentation will be moderated by Sean P. Holman, an enthusiast with decades of experience as an
automotive journalist and co-host of The Truck Show Podcast with a deep understanding of OEMs and
their impact on the marketplace. Holman brings a wealth of knowledge in the aftermarket truck space,
ensuring a dynamic and insightful discussion.
Together they will share their viewpoints into the aftermarket, emphasizing the benefits of OEM engagement and the "halo effect" of enhanced vehicles within OEM product lines, inspiring enthusiasts to enhance their vehicles. Shedding light on the intricacies of developing products as tiered suppliers to OEMs, attendees will learn important information pertaining to cultivating and maintaining relationships, and the marketing benefits of having their products featured on leading production vehicles.
Additional topics will cover crucial subjects such as how OEMs and suppliers benefit from partnerships,
differentiating between "private branding" accessories and branded aftermarket products, significant risks and benefits to retailers including warranty and competition, and a glimpse into the future of the aftermarket landscape.
differentiating between "private branding" accessories and branded aftermarket products, significant risks and benefits to retailers including warranty and competition, and a glimpse into the future of the aftermarket landscape.
“This discussion panel reflects Keystone's ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and
collaboration throughout the automotive aftermarket industry,” said Keystone Automotive Operations
President, Bill Rogers. “The BIG Show continues to be a platform where ideas converge and pave the
way for the future of automotive customization and enhancement. Bringing together industry leaders,
OEM manufacturers, and aftermarket experts, we look forward to exploring the evolving dynamics that
drive our industry forward.”
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, featuring its newly expanded meeting facility and room
tower, is conveniently situated just nineteen miles from Orlando International Airport. Boasting over
480,000 square feet of event space, the venue provides convenient access to a variety of dining and
entertainment options, with renowned attractions like Disney World, Epcot Center, and Universal
Studios Florida just minutes away.
This premier location sets the stage for the annual, industry-exclusive business-to-business event that
promises attendees the opportunity to explore an extensive array of automotive aftermarket exhibitor
displays and show vehicles, discover cutting-edge products, and engage in multiple receptions,
networking opportunities and show only sales and promotions.
For more information, please visit keystonebigshow.com or contact your Keystone Representative.
About Keystone Automotive Operations:
Keystone Automotive Operations is the leading distributor and marketer of automotive aftermarket
products and services, uniquely positioned to offer customers and suppliers substantial scale, the most
comprehensive inventory selection in the industry, high levels of customer service, and innovative
marketing support. Keystone is committed to expanding its offerings to meet the ever-growing needs of
its customer base, providing them everything they need, when they need it.
products and services, uniquely positioned to offer customers and suppliers substantial scale, the most
comprehensive inventory selection in the industry, high levels of customer service, and innovative
marketing support. Keystone is committed to expanding its offerings to meet the ever-growing needs of
its customer base, providing them everything they need, when they need it.
