Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW), the largest assembly of heavy-duty aftermarket professionals in North America, kicks off this week at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center. More than just a convention, HDAW'24 will welcome a record-breaking turnout of executives and managers from various sectors of the industry, including distributors, suppliers, service providers, and thought leaders. From January 22-25, HDAW'24 features four days of networking, personalized business meetings, a cutting-edge Product Expo highlighting the latest innovations, and expert-led education.
"HDAW isn't just another event—it's where industry leaders come together, creating a vibrant hub of inspiration and collaboration. We're looking forward to gaining fresh insights, forging meaningful connections, and driving our businesses to new heights," said Michael Callison Jr., President and CEO at Midwest Wheel Companies, co-chair for HDAW'24.
Nicole Oreskovic, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems and HDAW'24 co-chair, added, "I'm thrilled about HDAW'24—a pivotal event where innovation converges with opportunity. Suppliers are gearing up to showcase groundbreaking products, cultivate meaningful relationships, and elevate the heavy-duty aftermarket industry."
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week 2024 highlights
- Sold-out Product Expo Floor. Covering 140,000+ square feet, the show floor is the go-to hub for the heavy-duty aftermarket industry to explore the latest products. Boasting a lineup of 330+ suppliers, including over 47 first-timers, attendees can take advantage of exclusive show deals, access detailed product specifications, and establish meaningful relationships with suppliers and manufacturers, all geared towards optimizing their ROI.
- Future-Focused Networking at Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) and HDAWomen Reception. Attendees under the age of 45 can engage in the revamped LOT networking experience before the HDAW Welcome Reception on Monday, January 22. This year, the program features content tailored to young professionals. Structured speed mentoring takes center stage, offering exclusive interaction with over 20 industry veterans. Attendees can gain insights on optimizing time at HDAW and discover best practices for a thriving career. This program was developed through a joint effort between Auto Care Association's YANG, CVSN's GenNext, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers' MiX. Additionally, the HDAWomen Reception will celebrate women in the industry while encouraging community-building. There is no fee to attend either event, but pre-registration is recommended.
- Expanded Deal-Making Opportunities. Elevating the standard, the industry's largest and most successful One-on-One Business Meeting program will host a staggering 1,900+ meeting sessions scheduled during the event across Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. For added flexibility, optional self-scheduled meetings are available on Thursday from 1:45 p.m. to 4:20 p.m. CT.
- Exclusive Keynote Featuring NFL Legend Cris Carter. Taking the stage on Tuesday, Cris Carter will share insights from his remarkable career, life, and media journey, aiming to inspire leaders to navigate change and overcome challenges. Carter's experiences, marked by excellence, draw parallels with the heavy-duty aftermarket industry's dynamics and align with HDAW's renewed commitment to adaptability in a changing landscape.
- What's Next in the Industry. Wednesday's education session, Fully Equipped for What's Next: What's Keeping the Industry Moving the Next 3-5 Years, will examine critical elements shaping the heavy-duty aftermarket industry. Featuring a series of three rapid-style presentations covering electrification, recruitment and retention, and Right to Repair legislation, attendees will walk away with relevant insights imperative to a successful business strategy.
- Heavy Duty Aftermarket Industry Honors. For the past 17 years, a rotating committee of suppliers and distributors anonymously nominate and ultimately select each new member of the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Industry Hall of Fame (HOF), an elite group of outstanding industry leaders. The 2024 HOF Inductee will be announced during the Opening Session on Tuesday. HDAW also honors the Distributor of the Year annually.
- Closing Celebration: Wednesday Night Lights at AT&T Stadium. To celebrate the close of HDAW'24, the world-renowned venue, home to the NFL's storied Dallas Cowboys will host attendees on the field on Wednesday for a once-in-a-lifetime experience featuring exclusive access to the stadium, music, food, drinks, and more. Onsite tickets are available for $125.
For more information and to register, visit www.hdaw.org.