Autopromotec dates back to 1965 when Luigi Degli Esposti, secretary of the Italian Tyre Retreaders Association (AIRP), created the Salone Attrezzature Ricostruczione Pneumatici (SARP), the Tyre Retreading Equipment Exhibition in Rome, Italy. The goal was to showcase the technological advancements in the retreading industry and create a platform to grow the sector.
“We are happy to say that this model, this idea of coming together to grow, has generated over 60 years of history for the Autopromotec that we see today,” said Stefano Carloni, president of AIRP.
He said the retreaded tire is a perfect example of what is now referred to as the “circulator economy,” and remains a vital and strategic element for the mobility industry, contributing to sustainability, an important part of Autopromotec today.
The exhibition moved to Bologna, Italy, in 1967 and began being held biannually. In 1973, Onelio Picchioni and Giorgio Cometti, co-founders of the Associazione Italiana Costruttori Autoattrezzature (AICA), the Italian Garage Equipment Manufacturers Association, suggested including workshop and bodywork equipment manufacturers at the trade fair.
As a result, the International Exhibition of Equipment, Workshops and Bodywork (SIAC) was established. Additional associations later joined the event, dedicated to the automotive aftermarket sector. In 1991, it was renamed Autopromotec and included the tire sector, vehicle repair, service and maintenance, and parts and components.
Show organizers said the trade fair has evolved alongside the technological and professional development of the automotive aftermarket sector, becoming the quintessential venue for business networking and a benchmark for comprehensive training.
Renzo Servadei, CEO of Autopromotec, said this year’s event is dedicated to the 60th anniversary of Autopromotec (held 30 times over the last 60 years). He said the show represents “… not only the evolution of technology, but also of customs and… the dreams of so many entrepreneurs large and small in a sector, that of mobility, which is a driver of the economy.”
Mauro Severi, president of AICA, said the history of the association is closely linked to Autopromotec and the trade fair was an opportunity to celebrate this link.
Throughout the history of Autopromotec, three fundamental characteristics have consistently defined its success. They include a focus on automotive equipment, transparency in the products displayed and the synergies developed within the professional associations that represent attendees.
Key themes this year included sustainability and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), artificial intelligence (AI) and car connectivity.
