By Will Elkadi, Automobilia Collectors Expo

The world of automobilia is evolving, and if you're a collector, enthusiast, or someone just starting to explore this space, there’s a lot to be excited about. As we move into 2025 and beyond, the passion for automotive memorabilia is not just surviving—it’s thriving in new and unexpected ways. From the rise of younger collectors to the expansion of digital memorabilia and online marketplaces, let’s take a look at where automobilia is headed—and how the Automobilia Collectors Expo is keeping up with the times.

Gen Z and the Next Wave of Collectors

For years, automobilia collecting has been driven by longtime enthusiasts and Baby Boomers, but things are shifting. Younger collectors, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are entering the scene in growing numbers.

A 2024 Hagerty survey found that 60 percent of Gen Z participants are interested in owning older vehicles—more than Baby Boomers. And where do they get their inspiration? Social media. YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are fueling a new wave of appreciation for classic cars and automotive culture. Whether it's a vintage Porsche ad, a neon garage sign, or a racing jacket from the 1980s, younger enthusiasts are drawn to automobilia with a sense of style, nostalgia, and personality.

At Automobilia Collectors Expo, we're seeing this shift firsthand. More exhibitors are showcasing collectibles from the 1980s and 1990s, aligning with what younger enthusiasts grew up admiring. The era of Ferrari F40 posters, Gulf Racing jackets, and early JDM collectibles is here.

The Rise of Digital Automobilia & Online Marketplaces

Gone are the days when you had to travel to every swap meet or auction to find rare automobilia (though we still love that experience). Today, digital memorabilia and online marketplaces are changing the game.

• eBay remains a powerhouse for automobilia sales, offering everything from vintage brochures to dealership signs.
• Specialty auction platforms like Bring a Trailer and Hemmings are increasingly featuring automobilia alongside collector cars.
• Social media marketplaces (Instagram, Facebook Groups) are fueling direct sales between collectors.

At Automobilia Collectors Expo, we’re embracing this shift. Our event now integrates live digital engagement, social media highlights, and interactive online features to connect exhibitors with collectors worldwide.

What’s Hot: 1980s & 1990s Collectibles Are Surging

If you’ve been paying attention to auction results, you’ve probably noticed a trend—automobilia from the 1980s and 1990s is gaining serious traction.

• JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) memorabilia – Mazda Miata brochures, Honda Type R gear, and original Nissan Skyline posters.
• Classic racing video games & arcade memorabilia – Posters and promotional materials from games like Gran Turismo and OutRun are now collector’s items.
• Luxury brand collaborations – Vintage Ferrari, Porsche, and BMW-branded watches, bags, and apparel are more sought-after than ever.

For exhibitors at Automobilia Collectors Expo, this is a huge opportunity. Attendees are actively looking for memorabilia from these decades, making it the perfect time to showcase rare finds from the era.

How the Automobilia Collectors Expo Is Keeping Up with the Future

At Automobilia Collectors Expo, we aren’t just a show—we’re an evolving experience. As the future of automobilia shifts, we’re making sure exhibitors and attendees get the best of both worlds: tradition and innovation.

• New Activations & Special Exhibits – Expanding immersive experiences at the event, giving brands and collectors a chance to engage with attendees in new ways.
• Stronger Digital Presence – More live content, behind-the-scenes interviews, and online engagement to make the event accessible to collectors worldwide.
• Expanded Categories – Welcoming more 1980s-1990s automobilia, racing memorabilia, and lifestyle collectibles into the mix.

This isn’t just a vintage collector’s show—it’s a celebration of automotive culture from every era and a glimpse into the future of the hobby.

Want to be part of the future of automobilia? Join us at the 2025 Automobilia Collectors Expo.

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