2010 SEMA Show exhibitor booth commitments in the opening week of registration increased from last year—one hopeful indicator of economic recovery.

Judging by the first week of 2010 SEMA Show exhibitor registration, the specialty-equipment industry is showing tangible signs of economic recovery. Compared with the same period last year, the number of exhibitors submitting contracts for 2010 booth space has increased 20 percent.

More exhibitors have not only committed earlier in the registration process, but many have also increased their footprint. In just the first week of sales, total contracted square footage increased by 11,700, a 16% jump from 2009.

Racing and performance companies accounted for 9% of the space increase, with tire companies and paint and body exhibitors also making significant upsizes.

With more than 50,000 buyers, thousands of new products and hundreds of feature vehicles showcasing the latest automotive tastes and trends, the SEMA Show is the single best investment of your annual marketing resources. Since 1967, the Show has helped automotive entrepreneurs reach the broadest section of industry buyers possible.

Don't miss an opportunity to participate in the priority booth space selection, ensuring you get the best visibility, traffic flow and access to the industry's most qualified decision-makers. At the 2009 SEMA Show, 87% of buyers made or influenced buying decisions within their businesses, and 73% said that they purchase more products from SEMA Show exhibitors than from non-exhibiting companies.

Secure the best space possible by submitting your agreement and deposit by May 7, 2010, the deadline to participate in priority space selection. Scheduled June 2–23, the three-week priority space selection process allows exhibitors to select their actual booth location.

To get started, simply access the Exhibit Space Rental Agreement online here.