SEMA Member News—November/December 2014
Recent Events and SEMA Show Offerings Advance Conversations for Restylers
PRO Chair Jeff Fink welcomed members to the council’s reception at the 2013 SEMA Show. | ||
The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) hosted its annual long-range planning meeting this past summer at the SEMA Garage Industry Innovations Center in Diamond Bar, California.
The meeting was scheduled to coincide with the SEMA Garage open house and the annual Installation Gala, and members of the PRO select committee and a number of at-large members met and discussed issues, challenges and opportunities affecting restylers and accessory manufacturers.
New topics of discussion included consumer awareness, dealer education and outreach, and a focus on clarifying the PRO membership benefits received for professionals in the industry.
Members are encouraged to supply additional input on these topics or any others affecting the restyling industry. Simply contact a member of the select committee or Staff Liaison Clayton Drescher (claytond@sema.org) with feedback. PRO’s SEMA Show offerings will give members even more opportunities to join these conversations.
Industry Awards Reception
PRO’s annual awards reception will be held in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino (formerly the LVH) ballrooms F–G, on Tuesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. In keeping with tradition, the event’s main goal is to recognize industry leaders and provide the premier networking opportunity for restylers at the SEMA Show. Awards will be presented to honor influential leaders in the restyling industry, as nominated and voted upon by the general membership of the council.
PRO to Host Happy Hour in Booth #12561
In addition to the SEMA Show events that have become traditions for PRO members over the years, 2014 will bring a new draw. Visit the select committee in North Hall at Booth #12561 during Show hours to learn more about what the council has to offer, long-term goals of the group, or just to meet the leadership face to face. Be sure to take a mid-week break by mingling with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors and learn more about the council at the PRO Booth Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 5, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
General Membership Meeting
For members who have joined the council recently or who just want to stay in the know, a general membership meeting to be held on Thursday, November 6, will provide another chance to connect over breakfast. Join the council leadership from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N234, to learn more about the group’s focus for the next year and beyond.
PRO-Powered Seminars
Education has remained an important initiative to PRO. The group will again power SEMA Education’s Auto Dealer Track, and three seminars will feature panelists who work for PRO-member companies. The topics listed below will be especially important for restylers, so members are encouraged to include the seminars in their SEMA Show schedules.
- Trends That Will Boost Your Business
Wednesday, November 5, 10:15 a.m.–11:15 a.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N252
It takes more than selling a few colorful accessories to maximize your restyling dollars. Explore the dynamics of the ever-evolving accessory market and gain insight into emerging trends as experts share their vision for the future of accessorization.
- The Art of Accessory Sales: Getting the Most From Your Sales Team
Wednesday, November 5, 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N252
Hear the pros share tips that can take your dealership to the top. This session gives you the tools to succeed, from the importance of having a management team that supports the value of an accessory program and educating and training sales personnel on the benefits of selling accessorized vehicles to building partnerships with restyling professionals who have the facilities, skills and marketing savvy and creating high-profit accessory programs.
- Money vs. Myths: The Truth About Profiting From Accessory Sales
Thursday, November 6, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N252
Learn the key steps to creating and running a successful accessory program. Discover why savvy new-car and independent dealers rely on aftermarket accessories to generate faster sales for greater profit. Hear how accessories build a strong dealership identity and heighten customer satisfaction.
Separate from the Auto Dealer Track but still a topic near and dear to restylers’ hearts:
- Merchandising Accessories to Vehicle Dealers: What You Need to Know
Thursday, November 6, 10:15 a.m.–11:15 a.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N254
Build a winning dealer-direct sales program. Learn how to get in the door of any dealership. Discover how to overcome objections, negotiate with key decision makers, and what’s expected in terms of quality, service and more.