What is the total economic impact of the Canadian automotive aftermarket sector?

The broader industry generates approximately $44 billion in total economic activity annually. This massive scale supports a workforce of about 500,000 Canadians who maintain over 26 million vehicles currently on the road today.

How large is the specialized collision and mechanical repair market within Canada?

The specialized aftermarket sector holds a specific value of $17.3 billion nationwide. This segment sits within the larger $44 billion industry and includes collision, mechanical, and glass repair services for millions of vehicles.

Why are automotive parts store sales outpacing new vehicle dealer increases?

Retail sales at automotive parts stores rose 3.9% in 2025, beating new vehicle dealers. This growth reflects sustained demand as the national vehicle fleet continues aging and requiring consistent maintenance services.

How does the age of Canada's vehicle fleet influence repair demand?

With 26 million vehicles on the road, the average age dictates sustained maintenance needs. Older cars require more frequent repairs, driving the 3.9% sales increase seen recently in automotive parts stores across the country.

What factors are driving growth in the independent repair sector versus dealers?

Independent shops benefit as parts sales grow 3.9%, outpacing the 3.6% rise in new vehicle sales. An aging fleet of 26 million vehicles ensures steady demand for mechanical work over purchasing new units.

What are the registration cost tiers for AAPEX 2026 attendees?

Registration starts at $50 before rising to $75 and finally $100. Early commitment secures the lowest tier price of $50, ensuring optimal access to the event floor.

How much does individual hands-on training cost at the event?

Specific training sessions are priced at $150 each for attendees. Multi-session discounts are available to help professionals manage the total cost of upskilling their technical teams effectively.

What is the total global market value represented at AAPEX?

The event serves the massive $2.3-trillion global automotive aftermarket sector. This huge valuation drives the high density of business-to-business transactions occurring across the entire show floor.

Who is eligible for complimentary registration passes this year?

Qualified vocational students and accredited media members may register for free. This policy supports workforce development while ensuring industry news coverage remains robust throughout the multi-day event.

What future market size does the event help operators target?

Attendees gain supply chain access to support a market reaching $804.82 billion. This growth potential motivates professionals to secure long-term supply agreements during the show dates.

Canada aftermarket: Jason Herle's $44B repair plan

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Canada's vehicle fleet is aging. In 2026, the average car on the road will be 13–14 years old. This statistic defines the battlefield for the automotive aftermarket. It is not a theoretical shift; it is a structural guarantee of sustained repair demand. The question is whether the sector can capitalize on this reality or if it will be strangled by external pressures before the work gets done.

AAPEX 2026 Strategy: Navigating 1,400 Categories

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Only 3% of technicians can service an EV. That statistic alone turns AAPEX 2026 from a trade show into a triage center for the industry's workforce proficiency crisis.

Industry on KZMALL Auto Parts

Canada aftermarket: Jason Herle's $44B repair plan

AAPEX 2026 Strategy: Navigating 1,400 Categories