 Getting coverage in SEMA’s pre-Show publications starts by submitting a simple press release. There is no cost to upload releases and related images, but pre-Show publications start production as early as August 3. | |
By Carr Winn
Getting coverage in SEMA’s pre-Show publications starts with a simple press release. In fact, SEMA hosts an Exhibitor Press Release Library online that provides a one-stop shop for exhibitors to post announcements. There is no cost to upload releases and related images, but pre-Show publications start production as early as August 3. Here are some details about content the editorial team needs and when and where it might be featured.
There are three types of content that are relevant for both SEMA News and the SEMA Show Daily—new product announcements, custom vehicle premieres and Show-related activities.
Publications and Deadlines
- The October issue of SEMA News has a special section that highlights new products that exhibitors will be unveiling at the 2015 SEMA Show. The deadline for submissions is August 10.
- The November issue of SEMA News has a special section dedicated to custom vehicles entered into SEMA’s Battle of the Builders competition. The deadline is September 8. For more information and to register for SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit www.semaignited.com.
- The SEMA Show Daily is divided into four issues. The first issue will have a circulation of 40,000 and mails October 1, providing a sneak-peek of the SEMA Show’s can’t-miss features. The deadline is August 3.
- Show Daily #2 will be distributed Tuesday, November 3—the first day of the 2015 SEMA Show. It has a circulation of 10,000 and will be distributed at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The deadline is September 10.
- Show Daily #3 and #4 also have a circulation of 10,000 each. They will be distributed Wednesday, November 4, and Thursday, November 5. The deadline for both issues is October 5.
 All issues of the SEMA Show Daily feature press releases that discuss celebrity appearances, company announcements and details on related Show activities. | |
In both SEMA News November and throughout all issues of Show Daily, press releases that discuss celebrity appearances and related Show activities will be featured. As an exhibitor, keep an eye on the editorial deadlines listed as you begin to finalize your Show promotions. To submit a release for consideration, upload it directly to the Exhibitor Press Release Library. This is where editors look to find out the latest updates on Show exhibitors.
If you are concerned about not having material ready by the deadline, keep in mind that editorial is chosen on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, once you do have a release and image ready, submit it, even if it is after the deadline. Journalists from around the world access this library for potential stories. When additional space becomes available, SEMA’s editorial team will continue to utilize the Press Release Library for new stories.
In terms of releases, oftentimes there is only space for 100–200 words. Our editorial team will shorten a longer release given space constraints. When it comes to images, the art department is looking for high-resolution images. That means 300 dpi and in one of the following file types—jpg, eps or tif. If you only have a rendering of a new product or a shot of a car while its being built, this is perfectly acceptable.
For a sample copy of the SEMA Show Daily, use this link: www.sema.org/publications. To advertise in SEMA News or Show Daily, contact sales@sema.org or call 909-396-0289.
Key Contacts for SEMA’s Exhibitor Press Release Library and SEMA’s editorial department:
| Della Domingo Public Relations Director dellad@sema.org | John Stewart Vice President, Editorial Director Johns@sema.org |