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Alliance Sales and Marketing Forum ‘Levels Up’ in San Antonio

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The 2025 Alliance Sales and Marketing Forum, held September 10-12, has officially wrapped up—”and what a phenomenal three days it was,” said the

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This year’s event brought together teams from across the Auto Value & Bumper to Bumper distributor membership and a collection of select channel partners for a high-energy, high-impact gathering filled with sales insights, marketing innovation and meaningful collaboration.

The event kicked off on Wednesday, September 10, with a general session featuring a lineup of dynamic speakers and engaging topics that encouraged Alliance members to “Say Yes, listen to learn,” and embrace new ideas with open minds. Topics ranged from sales and marketing synergies, influencer marketing and promotions, and low-hanging sales opportunities, to strategies for leveraging partner relationships.

“There was such great energy in the room from the start—it was clear everyone came ready to engage, learn and enjoy the experience together,” said Nick Przybylowski, director of sales at Eastern Warehouse Distributors and chairman of the Alliance sales and marketing committee. “When we support each other and share knowledge, we all grow — and that spirit of collaboration is exactly what drives success in aftermarket auto parts sales and marketing.”

Breakout Sessions

The event continued Thursday with a variety of breakout class sessions covering sales, marketing and information technology—each designed to offer valuable insights and practical takeaways. The lineup of classes was strong and provided members a chance to dive deeper into B2B solutions such as MyPlace4Parts, a 101 and 201 sales track that pushed the psychology of sales and partnerships and classes related to omnichannel selling, social media and the marketing landscape with AI technologies.

“This was a great event to collaborate and interact with the Auto Value & Bumper to Bumper sales and marketing teams across the membership,” said Charles Sargent, sales director – program groups and key accounts at DRiV. “We at DRiV are looking forward to the next opportunity for this style of engagement.”

Also reflecting on the value of partner participation, Todd Mullins, director, warehouse distributors at Valvoline, shared, “At Valvoline Global Operations, we aim to enable and inspire what – and who – move the world forward, which is why we’re proud to participate in the Alliance Sales and Marketing Forum. This event is helping to fuel our future.”

It was a day of real learning, fresh perspectives, and skill-building—made even better by powerful conversations and the exchange of best practices happening in every room.

“We are always looking to improve, and this event brings together the right mix of professionals from across the industry,” said Jim Holik, director of marketing for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. “Thank you to those partners who were able to join us this year—the impact was immediate. It’s important to find new ways to work together, plan for the future, and be creative while we do it.”

Included throughout the week were networking mixers, receptions and meals that brought members and channel partners together in a relaxed, social setting—building stronger relationships across the board.

Roundtable Discussions

The Forum concluded on Friday morning with roundtable workshop discussions for member attendees, with topics ranging from digital sales and promotions, information technology trends and opportunities, to industry recruitment and retention.

The 2025 Alliance Sales and Marketing Forum wasn’t just another conference—it was a chance to grow professionally, strengthen partnerships and build bonds across the industry, the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. said. From thought leadership to laughter, from actionable insights to authentic conversations, the Forum highlighted the value of community, connection and continuous learning.

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