An Unforgettable NORTHEAST!
by Ken Miller, AASP/NJ President
What an unforgettable experience the NORTHEAST® 2024 Automotive Services show proved to be! I’m incredibly grateful to the tireless efforts of the AASP/NJ administrative team and the Board of Directors for all of their hard work in orchestrating what many have hailed as the best trade show in our industry. Countless attendees have echoed the sentiment that this year’s event stands out as the finest NORTHEAST in recent memory.
The weekend was brimming with excitement, with an abundance of show prizes and giveaways that added to the festivities. We honored two outstanding young technicians with tool kits valued at over $2,500 each. We also witnessed presentations of KECO Glue Pull Repair systems to both the Passaic County Technical-Vocational Institute and a new member of AASP/NJ. Additionally, the NORTHEAST Dollars program was back again; we awarded a total of $5,000 to 10 show attendees (each received $500 toward a purchase at the show) over the course of the weekend. The Second Annual Bodywork Bowl emerged as a standout success, with participants enthusiastically competing to claim the right to be called “the best of the best.”
The educational offerings this year were truly unparalleled. NORTHEAST offered four straight days of seminars and panel discussions. Renowned educators from across the industry converged to share their wisdom, shedding some light on the myriad of issues our industry faces and providing invaluable guidance for navigating the complexities of the current business environment.
Our membership drive initiative yielded remarkable results, with our existing membership expanding by more than 10 percent. The significant increase in membership during the drive reflects the value and appeal of being part of AASP/NJ. To those who joined us during this drive, I thank you. And to our steadfast members who continue to support us year after year, your unwavering dedication is truly appreciated. Together, we are indeed stronger!
For those who may be reading and have yet to join AASP/NJ, I encourage you to become part of our association and contribute to the changes we’re striving for. Your participation is vital in helping us achieve our goal of making positive changes in our industry.
The overwhelming feedback from attendees, exhibitors, educators and presenters alike has been resoundingly positive, with many proclaiming this year’s show as the best they’ve ever attended. As the newly elected AASP/NJ President, I wish to personally express my gratitude to everyone who participated and attended this year’s show. I look forward to the opportunities and successes that await us in the year ahead, and I eagerly anticipate NORTHEAST 2025!
Want more? Check out the April 2024 issue of New Jersey Automotive!