Mexico. The National Auto Parts Industry (INA), in collaboration with the National Association of Representatives, Importers and Distributors of Automotive Parts and Accessories (ARIDRA), announced the first edition of the International Aftermarket Summit (IAS).
This forum on innovation, digital solutions and aftermarket trends will be organized in coordination with Messe Frankfurt and the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) on July 9 and 10, 2024 at the Citibanamex Center in Mexico City.
Francisco González Díaz, executive president of the INA, explained that "it is important that we look at e-commerce as a strategic channel for our industry [...] In fact, the global auto parts aftermarket e-commerce market was valued at close to $77 billion in 2022. But what's interesting is that it's projected to triple to $239 billion by 2029."
"Taking advantage of the alliance between INA and Mercado Libre, we chose this platform as an ally for the IAS, since it is the most important e-commerce platform in Latin America, with which we will enhance the role of the auto parts industry in Mexico, bringing greater development to the country and further consolidating our leadership worldwide," said Francisco González.
For his part, the President of ARIDRA, Antonio López, reiterated that the unity that exists between INA and his association strengthens the aftermarket industry by boosting the country's supply chain, so its alliance with Mercado Libre will further enhance the development of the sector in Mexico.
Likewise, Bridget Ferris, Director of INA PAACE Automechanika Mexico and Vice President of Mobility and Logistics Fairs at Messe Frankfurt, explained the impact of this event to connect buyers with new tools, equipment and technology in the automotive market, in addition to highlighting the delivery vehicle segment or "Last Mile", which experienced significant growth in recent years.
In addition, the director mentioned that during the last edition there was a record attendance of more than 27 thousand attendees from 39 countries and more than 500 national and international exhibitors, who also participated in the technical training program that was carried out.
Finally, the Head of Mercado Libre's Auto Parts Category, Amelie Mossberg, highlighted the importance of automotive components for the platform, as it is the fourth largest category in sales and informed that the alliance established with INA and ARIDRA will also include the publication of periodic bulletins in conjunction with the INA, which will be issued to Mexican companies in the sector under the title "News Garage".
