Government program aims to boost international sales of ASRW exhibitors

As part of the U.S. Commercial Service's International Buyer Program (IBP), companies exhibiting at Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW) 2012 now have access to a host of complimentary export-related services and programs through the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The IBP, a unique program through the U.S. Department of Commerce, the International Trade Administration and the U.S. Commercial Service (the trade promotion arm of the International Trade Administration), helps international buyers find U.S. suppliers by first identifying prominent trade exhibitions like ASRW they determine are good venues for developing new business relationships.

The U.S. Commercial Service staff, in conjunction with the ASRW team, will work diligently in the months leading up to ASRW to connect exhibiting companies with international buyers - providing leads, trade counseling and market research.

The IBP will also recruit foreign buyers, sales representatives and business partners to ASRW 2012, giving exhibitors excellent opportunities to expand business globally. All services, personnel and resources provided through the IBP are complimentary to all participants.

U.S. firms exhibiting at ASRW 2012 who are interested in exporting their products and services overseas are encouraged to contact Darrin Cayton at (972) 536-6308 for more information, or for assistance in connecting with an IBP automotive specialist dedicated specifically to ASRW. "We're thrilled not only to have received the prestigious honor of the IBP this year, but also about the vast opportunities it brings for the companies who exhibit in ASRW," stated Lindsay Roberts, ASRW show director.

"Being able to connect exhibitors with the caliber and quantity of resources available through the IBP - all complimentary to the exhibitor - aligns well with our commitment to provide all exhibiting companies with a profitable, successful experience at ASRW."

ASRW 2012 will also feature an International Trade Center on-site where Commerce Department staff will facilitate meetings between attendees and exhibitors.

Located across the United States and in U.S. embassies and consulates in nearly 80 countries, the IBP represents a global network of trade professionals who help attendees locate U.S. products, services or business partners; and meet suppliers and partners face-to-face at the program trade shows.

ASRW 2012, comprised of the International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) and the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS), is scheduled for Oct. 10-13 at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, La.