#United States #Automotive Industry #Oak Brook #Worldpac #Supplier Expo

Worldpac's 2026 Supplier and Training Expo: A Unifying Event in the Automotive Aftermarket

From August 19 to 23, 2026, Worldpac hosted its Supplier and Training Expo, a pivotal event in the automotive aftermarket sector, attracting more than 2,500 attendees. This year's expo was marked by remarkable participation, with attendees collectively accumulating an impressive 43,200 hours of training across various courses. The event was not just a gathering; it was a platform for learning, connecting, and celebrating the future of the automotive aftermarket.

A Showcase of Innovation and Excellence

Held in Oak Brook, Illinois, STX 2026 featured exhibits from over 100 international manufacturers. This provided attendees with firsthand insights into the latest innovations within the industry. The excitement in the exhibition hall was palpable, as participants explored cutting-edge products that are set to shape the future of automotive services and repairs.

Notably, Worldpac took the opportunity to honor nine outstanding suppliers for their exemplary partnerships during a dedicated Supplier Brunch. Recognizing those who contribute to the industry's growth is crucial in fostering a spirit of collaboration and success.

Inspirational Keynote Speakers

A highlight of the expo was the presence of two influential keynote speakers: Terry Bradshaw, a four-time Super Bowl champion quarterback, and Siri Lindley, a world champion triathlete turned motivational speaker. Both shared their unique journeys, offering valuable insights into leadership and resilience.

During his speech, Bradshaw engaged the audience in a thoughtful discussion about his passion for automobiles and the significant lessons he learned throughout his illustrious sports career. His inspiring mantra, “Why not your best?” resonated with the attendees, encouraging them to apply this mindset in their professional endeavors.

Lindley also made a striking impact during the Women’s Luncheon, emphasizing the importance of pursuing opportunities outside one’s comfort zone. She articulated, “How can you ever know what you're truly capable of if you're not trying to do what you don't think you can every single day?” These motivational addresses underscored the event’s goal of inspiring automotive professionals to strive for excellence.

Celebrating Supplier Achievements

The STX 2026 Supplier Awards celebrated outstanding partnerships within the industry. This year’s recognitions included:

• - Legacy Partner Award: Bosch
• - Customer Commitment Award: DENSO
• - Digital Partnership Award: KYB
• - Technical Training Excellence Award: Delphi
• - Operational Supply Chain Excellence Award: Arnott
• - Quality Award: Aisin
• - Product Excellence Award: Febi Bilstein
• - Rising Star Award: Castrol
• - Supplier of the Year Award: Akebono

The awards were carefully curated, acknowledging suppliers that have exhibited remarkable growth, operational excellence, and innovative practices within their fields. John Hamilton, President and CEO of Worldpac, highlighted the importance of these recognitions in building a robust network within the industry.

Looking Ahead: STX 2028

Exciting news for attendees was the announcement of the next Supplier and Training Expo, scheduled for March 29 to April 2, 2028, at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado. Registration will open in December of this year. Hamilton expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, indicating that STX 2028 will continue to build on the successes and momentum established in 2026.

About Worldpac

Worldpac has been a prominent wholesale distributor of original equipment parts and national aftermarket brands, servicing repair shops across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico since 1995. With a catalog of over 200,000 parts and an extensive range of training programs, Worldpac is committed to supporting the automotive aftermarket industry by providing quality products and education.

For more information about Worldpac and future events, visit Worldpac's official website.