Understanding how and why American motorists make decisions about purchasing and maintaining their vehicles is critical to the sucess of aftermarket businesses across the nation. And now, for the first time, results of the NPD Group's 2008 Aftermarket Consumer Outlook Survey will be presented during the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) seminar, on Wednesday, Oct. 31 in Las Vegas. David Portalatin, director of industry analysis, NPD, will review the findings that indicate whether American motorists will buy new cars; repair and maintain old ones; or choose to alter their lifestyle behaviors that result in modified spending patterns. The trends and economic factors influencing their decisions, as well as how consumers feel about the state of the aftermarket, will also be presented. Portalatin will interpret the findings in light of NPD's wealth of aftermarket research to give an early projection of what to expect in 2008. "Millions of American motorists will make everyday decisions that affect your bottom line in 2008," Portalatin said. "If we can understand how and why those decisions are being made, we can then align our business strategies to position ourselves for the best possible success." The 2008 Aftermarket Outlook seminar will be held from 10-11 a.m. in room 304 of the Sands Expo Center. There is no cost to attend but registration is required. Interested parties can register online, at the AAPEX Web site. | 