dealer base benefits everyone. Our focus is on ensuring dealers have the tools to succeed, because when they thrive, the entire aftermarket grows.”

TARIFFS AND TRADE CHALLENGES A major feature of the Milwaukee NVP Expo was a seminar on tariffs, led by Shannon Bryant, president of Trade IQ and a licensed U. S. Customs broker. The session drew significant attention from dealers and vendors eager to understand how international trade policies affect the aftermarket supply chain.

Bryant detailed the nuances of Section 301 and Section 232 tariffs, explaining their varied impacts on products sourced from countries including China, India, Canada, and Mexico.

“ Section 301 tariffs range from 7.5 % to 100 %, and section 232 tariffs hit steel, aluminum, and copper at 50 %. Exemptions, like the 25 % automotive exemption for non-passenger vehicles or the de minimis exemption for items under $ 800, can significantly reduce costs if managed correctly,” Bryant says.

Langley highlights the practical implications for distributors and dealers alike:

“ Tariffs aren’ t just a cost— they influence inventory decisions, pricing, and cash flow. Companies that can navigate exemptions, manage documentation, and stay ahead of regulatory changes will be in the best position to serve their dealers.”

He notes that uncertainty remains the industry’ s biggest challenge:

“ Even when court decisions temporarily halt certain tariffs, the potential for reinstatement means every company needs a strategy to respond quickly. That’ s why we have a dedicated tariff team tracking these developments daily. Dealers depend on us to mitigate these risks so they can focus on running their businesses.”

TECH, DATA AND DEALER SUPPORT Langley also emphasizes the role of technology and data in helping dealers operate more efficiently:“ We’ re evolving our systems to provide dealers with better insights into what’ s selling and how to manage inventory. The combination of strong relationships and

technology is critical in this day and age. Dealers that leverage both have a significant advantage.”

He adds that Parts Unlimited is committed to being proactive, not reactive:

“ Our goal is to anticipate issues before they impact our dealers. Whether it’ s supply chain disruption, tariff changes, or shifts in consumer demand, our team is focused on keeping dealers informed and prepared.”

COMMUNITY AND COLLABORATION The Milwaukee NVP demonstrated that the aftermarket powersports industry is not just about products— it’ s about people. Networking and knowledge-sharing were woven throughout the event, from seminars and vendor interactions to the bike show and evening receptions. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from peers, industry experts, and executives like Langley, gaining both inspiration and actionable insights.

“ Events like this remind us why we do what we do,” Langley adds.“ It’ s not just about selling parts; it’ s about building a community where dealers can thrive, where innovation is

celebrated, and where we all can work together to grow the market.”

LOOKING AHEAD With a successful Milwaukee showing behind them, Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties are already preparing for the next NVP Product Expo in Louisville, Kentucky, scheduled for Jan. 24 – 25, 2026, at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Langley expressed optimism for continued growth:

“ We see tremendous opportunity ahead. The industry is resilient, dealers are adapting, and we’ re ready to provide the tools, resources, and insights they need to succeed. This Expo is a snapshot of that ongoing evolution.”

As the aftermarket faces challenges from tariffs, supply chain volatility, and changing consumer trends, events like the NVP Expo offer a crucial forum for collaboration, innovation, and shared learning. Milwaukee’ s 2025 Expo underscored the importance of connection— between vendors, dealers, and industry leaders— and reinforced the role of Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties as pillars of the aftermarket community.