Automotive restorers, builders, business owners and legends reunited at the 2021 SEMA Show – marking a successful conclusion of the largest North American automotive trade event since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020.

Below are highlights from the event that took place in Las Vegas, Nevada:   

ARMO Feature Vehicle Unveilings

The ARMO Booth featured the unveiling of a Boss ’69 mustang restored by Ryan’s Rod and Kustom. Typically known more for customs and sleds, the company took on a muscle car specifically for the SEMA Show.

2021 ARMO Booth Unveiling

Also featured in ARMO’s booth were a ‘67 Corvette restomod build by B Rod or Custom and a ’76 Pontiac Trans Am restored to 100% original specifications.

Recognizing Industry Leaders

More than 125 industry members paid tribute to the restoration industry at Westgate Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening of the Show. The event was emceed by Tim Strange of Strange Motion Rod and Custom and formally recognized the ARMO Hot Product winners that were announced earlier this year:

  • Drivetrain/Brakes/Suspension: Midnight Oil Muscle Car Parts, ’64–’74 GM Upper Ball Joint Rivet Installation and Removal Tool
  • Accessory Item: Retro Manufacturing, Redondo RS/RT Radio
  • Interior (includes trunk interior): Dakota Digital, RTX-Gauge Set, ’67 Mustang
  • Engine/Engine Compartment: Cold Case Radiators, Radiator Core, Support Module, ’67–’69 Camaro
  • Exterior/Trim: Auto Metal Direct, 3-in. Wider Inner Wheelhouse, ’66–’70 Dodge Plymouth B-Body
  • People’s Choice: Mr. Mustang, MM350 Wheel 18x8, ’79–’04 Mustang

R.E.M was awarded ARMO Business of the Year, Dave Roberts was inducted into the ARMO Hall of Fame, and Steve Ames was awarded ARMO Steve Ames Person of the Year. Formerly “ARMO Person of the Year”, the award was re-named this year to honor Ames who was one of the original founders of ARMO and passed away in December 2020.

Steve Ames
Dave Roberts

Resources and Education

Auto restoration professionals were educated on the council’s latest resources and discussed the industry’s hot topics during the Breakfast with ARMO event on Wednesday morning. The Breakfast was open to members and non-member professionals and resulted in roundtable discussions, peer-to-peer networking, and how ARMO can continue to support meeting the industry’s critical goals.
 

2021 ARMO Breakfast