CHICAGO – China is widely considered to be entering its “aftermarket era,” according to Steve Ganster, managing director, Technomic Asia and a presenter at the 2014 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), May 20-21 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill.
“China now boasts the largest auto market in the world and a repair industry that is growing at a double-digit rate,” said Ganster. “China will be a critical growth market for U.S. firms.”
Ganster will present “Opportunities and Challenges for U.S. Firms in China’s Automotive Aftermarket,” at GAAS 2014 from 1:45 p.m. to 2:20 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20. His presentation will describe the opportunity in China in terms of size, growth and market structure and highlight important developments in distribution. It will also include perspective on opportunities and challenges as well some principles of success.
Based in Shanghai, Ganster has more than 30 years in international market strategy and operational consulting, primarily in Asia. He has assisted more than 250 multinational firms in their assessment of opportunities in Asia and their resultant business strategy development.
He is author of the book, “The China Ready Company” and is co-producer of the Emmy winning DVD, “On the Frontlines: Doing Business in China.” Ganster is a frequent speaker on China related topics and has in depth experience in China’s automotive sector. He has consulted many leading vehicle makers and parts suppliers and retailers on their China strategy development. He oversees Technomic Asia’s annual industry report on China’s automotive aftermarket now in its eighth edition.
“Connected,” is the theme for GAAS 2014 and a complete registration brochure for the event is available at www.globalsymposium.org. In addition, visitors to the site can view a copy of the current agenda, speaker bios and registration forms. The two-day Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium, now in its 19th year, brings together industry leaders and experts to examine the issues and trends affecting the worldwide automotive aftermarket and influencing its future.
Each year, the net proceeds of GAAS are invested in the organization’s scholarship fund to help students get their automotive aftermarket career started. Additional scholarship funding comes from industry contributions from individuals, companies and foundations. To date GAAS, has awarded scholarships to more than 1,800 students representing $1.8 million in aid. To learn more, visit automotivescholarships.com.
