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Date: 1/9/2019
WEST SPRINGFIELD – Join Start/Finish Productions on Jan. 19 and 20 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Eastern States Exposition for their annual Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell event, where over 300 vendors will be on site selling new and used auto parts and accessories. For over four decades, the Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell has provided car enthusiasts with the ideal location to admire and purchase automotive goods.
Dale Wolbrink, Public Relations Specialist for the Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell event, explained what draws guests to the swap meet each year. “Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell is New England’s largest indoor, all-automotive swap meet featuring hundreds of vendors with bargains on new and used parts and accessories for all automotive applications as well as tools, accessories and automobilia for all categories of motorsports. A Car Corral, offering special interest cars for sale, rounds out the huge show that encompasses all 125,000 square feet of the venue.” Wolbrink said.
The Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell does not discriminate between different modes of driving. There are buying and selling options for all motorsports disciplines including classics, customs, imports, asphalt and dirt racing.
Car enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the thousands of items for sale and on display at the event. Wolbrink explained why she enjoys being a part of the annual Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell. “It’s hard to narrow it down to just one thing. There are so many interesting vendors selling wares that are helpful for all automotive passions. And it really is a passion, whether it’s a classic car or race car or if you’re simply a fan.” Wolbrink said.
There are a number of unique items available for car connoisseurs to enjoy sold by wholesalers, retailers and individuals alike. Items included on display and for sale are vintage license plates, original owner’s manuals, old racing movies, neon signs, die casts, performance parts (new and used,) safety equipment, collectibles, tools, clothing and automotive car parts for classic cars, hot rods and race cars.
This year’s vendors include All Star Auto, Auto Body Specialties, D&E Distributing, D&R Goods, CP Restoration, DCB Auto Parts, Dick’s Automotive, Mike’s Auto Service, Minnesota Pneumatic Products, Memory Lane, Reed’s Performance Transmissions, Top Quality, TOP International and Old Time Tools. The Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell is headlined by Northeast Race Cars & Parts and Duraflex Racecar Bodies.
Wolbrink shared, “The show is also a great way during the off-season to connect with friends who share the same passion. Swap ‘n Sell is a giant reminder of all the things that makes gear heads like us love everything automotive.”
Wolbrink told Reminder Publishing that she believes, in our modern age, that it is important to take a step back from online sales platforms and appreciate the value of making an in-person purchase. “In this day in age with the popularity of sites like eBay and Craigslist, people often forget the confidence that comes from being able to inspect what they are buying before they make the final purchase. There is less risk buying in-person. And there’s the art of the haggle.” Wolbrink said.
For 2019, Start/Finish Productions will welcome a new vendor, Soldier Solutions, LLC. The vendor offers patriotic apparel and has a local storefront in Wallingford. A former University of Connecticut football player who grew up in a military family, Frank Quagliano, created soldier Solutions. To help with the issue of veteran unemployment, Soldier Solutions currently employs over 35 veterans and patriotic Americans.
Ben Dodge Jr., Owner and Promoter for the Auto Parts Swap ‘N Sell, shared in a press release, “Start/Finish Productions is proud to host vendors from all over New England and beyond as we strive to provide the best possible event for this community. We are grateful for all of our vendors, but none more so than Soldier Solutions, LLC.”
This year will also bring the addition of Evoxtek, Inc., who sells automotive LED lights and accessories and People KARS, who sells automobilia.
Last-minute registration is available for vendors by visiting apswapnsell.com, by calling Start/Finish Productions at 860-871-6376 or via email at info@apswapnsell.com.
One-day tickets cost $12. Kids 12 and under are free with a paid adult. The event will be located at the Eastern States Exposition Better Living Center at 1305 Memorial Avenue. For updates on the Auto Parts Swap ‘n Sell, visit apswapnsell.com.