SEMA Member News—July/August 2015

Resources to Help Your Business Save and Grow

Members have heard a lot lately from SEMA’s membership department about some exciting new benefits. In addition to expanding services such as data management through the SEMA Data Co-op and product-development tools through the SEMA Garage, the association still collaborates with strategic partners to offer programs aimed at saving members on their business expenses. Here is a closer look at what First Data, the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance and UPS offer to members.

Fast, Convenient and Secure Payment Solutions

First Data provides credit-card processing solutions at low rates to SEMA members for processing retail, mail order, wholesale and e-commerce. The program features electronic payment solutions, including all major credit/debit cards, electronic checks and gift cards. In addition, members have access to easy, 24/7 online reporting.

Ease of enrollment is part of the benefit for SEMA members. All companies need to provide is a recent statement from their current credit-card processor. From there, First Data will perform the research and analysis necessary to determine if the program can offer additional savings.

“I was referred by a representative of SEMA to Ken Keifer, senior account executive,” said Raymond Andrade of 24 Hour Recreational Storage. “Ken has been with First Data for almost two decades and is very well versed in the industry. He has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of MasterCard/Visa and the standards of credit-card processing. Ken made it easy for me to navigate the program and also understand my rate structure. He makes himself available for any support needs I may have, and I especially appreciate his honesty. First Data has been a valuable partner to our business, and we strongly recommend it for all merchant credit-card processing.”

Call Ken Keifer at 424-903-6877 today to get started.

Liability Insurance Coverage

Accidents happen and staffing changes occur, so it is important for companies to be equipped for the potential outcome. As SEMA’s endorsed insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services (AIS)—doing business as the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) —delivers insurance solutions that protect your businesses.

SEIA starts by investing time to learn every aspect of the business, regardless of the size or category. Armed with years of experience and industry knowledge, SEIA agents expertly match core coverages according to members’ needs, such as property, general and products liability, workers’ compensation and employment liability.

Every SEIA customer receives a bundle of human-resource services through Strategic HR (a wholly owned division of AIS), and exclusive employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) products are available at SEMA-member discounts. EPLI policy limits start from $250,000, with the average company purchasing $1 million of limit.

Gary Chang of Top Line Products shared his experience.

“As business owners, our main focus toward achieving growth can often be sidetracked from not knowing if we have sufficient insurance coverage,” he said. “Bob Corwin and Alliant Insurance Services have provided our company with the expert knowledge of the intricacies of the insurance industry while always acting in the best interests of our company. Through delivering best-in-class insurance advice and consultation, Bob and AIS allow us the ability to refocus on growing our business, knowing that our insurance needs are covered.”

SEIA can do the same for your business. Call 800-390-9099 for more information and to begin the process.

Shipping and Business Services Discounts

	In addition to offering payment solutions and liability coverage through partners, SEMA works with UPS to give members discounted rates.

SEMA members also enjoy discounts on UPS services and solutions, including package deliveries, export rates and freight shipping. Savings on package delivery and freight rates are considerable for companies with smaller amounts of shipping. Members save up to 34% off next-day, second-day, third-day and commercial ground services and up to 17% off residential ground service. U.S. exports qualify for a 39% discount on international export rates.

UPS can also help members manage risk and cash flow with special offers from UPS Capital and the UPS Package Design and Test Lab. Members receive a 10% discount on qualifying business services at participating UPS Store locations. For SEMA members that need assistance with business processes such as sales, shipping, tracking and billing, members can also access several UPS Ready Program providers for turnkey software solutions.

“The SEMA shipping program in place with UPS allowed us to get discounted rates that kept us competitive in the market and helped us build a solid relationship with UPS,” said Jeremy Boysen of JB Autosports Inc.

To learn more about what UPS can do for you, call 800-325-7000.

For additional information about any of these services, visit www.sema.org/benefits, or call SEMA’s customer service team at 909-610-2030.
 

SEMA Member News—July/August 2015

Resources to Help Your Business Save and Grow

Members have heard a lot lately from SEMA’s membership department about some exciting new benefits. In addition to expanding services such as data management through the SEMA Data Co-op and product-development tools through the SEMA Garage, the association still collaborates with strategic partners to offer programs aimed at saving members on their business expenses. Here is a closer look at what First Data, the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance and UPS offer to members.

Fast, Convenient and Secure Payment Solutions

First Data provides credit-card processing solutions at low rates to SEMA members for processing retail, mail order, wholesale and e-commerce. The program features electronic payment solutions, including all major credit/debit cards, electronic checks and gift cards. In addition, members have access to easy, 24/7 online reporting.

Ease of enrollment is part of the benefit for SEMA members. All companies need to provide is a recent statement from their current credit-card processor. From there, First Data will perform the research and analysis necessary to determine if the program can offer additional savings.

“I was referred by a representative of SEMA to Ken Keifer, senior account executive,” said Raymond Andrade of 24 Hour Recreational Storage. “Ken has been with First Data for almost two decades and is very well versed in the industry. He has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of MasterCard/Visa and the standards of credit-card processing. Ken made it easy for me to navigate the program and also understand my rate structure. He makes himself available for any support needs I may have, and I especially appreciate his honesty. First Data has been a valuable partner to our business, and we strongly recommend it for all merchant credit-card processing.”

Call Ken Keifer at 424-903-6877 today to get started.

Liability Insurance Coverage

Accidents happen and staffing changes occur, so it is important for companies to be equipped for the potential outcome. As SEMA’s endorsed insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services (AIS)—doing business as the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) —delivers insurance solutions that protect your businesses.

SEIA starts by investing time to learn every aspect of the business, regardless of the size or category. Armed with years of experience and industry knowledge, SEIA agents expertly match core coverages according to members’ needs, such as property, general and products liability, workers’ compensation and employment liability.

Every SEIA customer receives a bundle of human-resource services through Strategic HR (a wholly owned division of AIS), and exclusive employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) products are available at SEMA-member discounts. EPLI policy limits start from $250,000, with the average company purchasing $1 million of limit.

Gary Chang of Top Line Products shared his experience.

“As business owners, our main focus toward achieving growth can often be sidetracked from not knowing if we have sufficient insurance coverage,” he said. “Bob Corwin and Alliant Insurance Services have provided our company with the expert knowledge of the intricacies of the insurance industry while always acting in the best interests of our company. Through delivering best-in-class insurance advice and consultation, Bob and AIS allow us the ability to refocus on growing our business, knowing that our insurance needs are covered.”

SEIA can do the same for your business. Call 800-390-9099 for more information and to begin the process.

Shipping and Business Services Discounts

	In addition to offering payment solutions and liability coverage through partners, SEMA works with UPS to give members discounted rates.

SEMA members also enjoy discounts on UPS services and solutions, including package deliveries, export rates and freight shipping. Savings on package delivery and freight rates are considerable for companies with smaller amounts of shipping. Members save up to 34% off next-day, second-day, third-day and commercial ground services and up to 17% off residential ground service. U.S. exports qualify for a 39% discount on international export rates.

UPS can also help members manage risk and cash flow with special offers from UPS Capital and the UPS Package Design and Test Lab. Members receive a 10% discount on qualifying business services at participating UPS Store locations. For SEMA members that need assistance with business processes such as sales, shipping, tracking and billing, members can also access several UPS Ready Program providers for turnkey software solutions.

“The SEMA shipping program in place with UPS allowed us to get discounted rates that kept us competitive in the market and helped us build a solid relationship with UPS,” said Jeremy Boysen of JB Autosports Inc.

To learn more about what UPS can do for you, call 800-325-7000.

For additional information about any of these services, visit www.sema.org/benefits, or call SEMA’s customer service team at 909-610-2030.
 

SEMA Member News—July/August 2015

Resources to Help Your Business Save and Grow

Members have heard a lot lately from SEMA’s membership department about some exciting new benefits. In addition to expanding services such as data management through the SEMA Data Co-op and product-development tools through the SEMA Garage, the association still collaborates with strategic partners to offer programs aimed at saving members on their business expenses. Here is a closer look at what First Data, the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance and UPS offer to members.

Fast, Convenient and Secure Payment Solutions

First Data provides credit-card processing solutions at low rates to SEMA members for processing retail, mail order, wholesale and e-commerce. The program features electronic payment solutions, including all major credit/debit cards, electronic checks and gift cards. In addition, members have access to easy, 24/7 online reporting.

Ease of enrollment is part of the benefit for SEMA members. All companies need to provide is a recent statement from their current credit-card processor. From there, First Data will perform the research and analysis necessary to determine if the program can offer additional savings.

“I was referred by a representative of SEMA to Ken Keifer, senior account executive,” said Raymond Andrade of 24 Hour Recreational Storage. “Ken has been with First Data for almost two decades and is very well versed in the industry. He has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of MasterCard/Visa and the standards of credit-card processing. Ken made it easy for me to navigate the program and also understand my rate structure. He makes himself available for any support needs I may have, and I especially appreciate his honesty. First Data has been a valuable partner to our business, and we strongly recommend it for all merchant credit-card processing.”

Call Ken Keifer at 424-903-6877 today to get started.

Liability Insurance Coverage

Accidents happen and staffing changes occur, so it is important for companies to be equipped for the potential outcome. As SEMA’s endorsed insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services (AIS)—doing business as the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) —delivers insurance solutions that protect your businesses.

SEIA starts by investing time to learn every aspect of the business, regardless of the size or category. Armed with years of experience and industry knowledge, SEIA agents expertly match core coverages according to members’ needs, such as property, general and products liability, workers’ compensation and employment liability.

Every SEIA customer receives a bundle of human-resource services through Strategic HR (a wholly owned division of AIS), and exclusive employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) products are available at SEMA-member discounts. EPLI policy limits start from $250,000, with the average company purchasing $1 million of limit.

Gary Chang of Top Line Products shared his experience.

“As business owners, our main focus toward achieving growth can often be sidetracked from not knowing if we have sufficient insurance coverage,” he said. “Bob Corwin and Alliant Insurance Services have provided our company with the expert knowledge of the intricacies of the insurance industry while always acting in the best interests of our company. Through delivering best-in-class insurance advice and consultation, Bob and AIS allow us the ability to refocus on growing our business, knowing that our insurance needs are covered.”

SEIA can do the same for your business. Call 800-390-9099 for more information and to begin the process.

Shipping and Business Services Discounts

	In addition to offering payment solutions and liability coverage through partners, SEMA works with UPS to give members discounted rates.

SEMA members also enjoy discounts on UPS services and solutions, including package deliveries, export rates and freight shipping. Savings on package delivery and freight rates are considerable for companies with smaller amounts of shipping. Members save up to 34% off next-day, second-day, third-day and commercial ground services and up to 17% off residential ground service. U.S. exports qualify for a 39% discount on international export rates.

UPS can also help members manage risk and cash flow with special offers from UPS Capital and the UPS Package Design and Test Lab. Members receive a 10% discount on qualifying business services at participating UPS Store locations. For SEMA members that need assistance with business processes such as sales, shipping, tracking and billing, members can also access several UPS Ready Program providers for turnkey software solutions.

“The SEMA shipping program in place with UPS allowed us to get discounted rates that kept us competitive in the market and helped us build a solid relationship with UPS,” said Jeremy Boysen of JB Autosports Inc.

To learn more about what UPS can do for you, call 800-325-7000.

For additional information about any of these services, visit www.sema.org/benefits, or call SEMA’s customer service team at 909-610-2030.
 

SEMA Member News—July/August 2015

Resources to Help Your Business Save and Grow

Members have heard a lot lately from SEMA’s membership department about some exciting new benefits. In addition to expanding services such as data management through the SEMA Data Co-op and product-development tools through the SEMA Garage, the association still collaborates with strategic partners to offer programs aimed at saving members on their business expenses. Here is a closer look at what First Data, the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance and UPS offer to members.

Fast, Convenient and Secure Payment Solutions

First Data provides credit-card processing solutions at low rates to SEMA members for processing retail, mail order, wholesale and e-commerce. The program features electronic payment solutions, including all major credit/debit cards, electronic checks and gift cards. In addition, members have access to easy, 24/7 online reporting.

Ease of enrollment is part of the benefit for SEMA members. All companies need to provide is a recent statement from their current credit-card processor. From there, First Data will perform the research and analysis necessary to determine if the program can offer additional savings.

“I was referred by a representative of SEMA to Ken Keifer, senior account executive,” said Raymond Andrade of 24 Hour Recreational Storage. “Ken has been with First Data for almost two decades and is very well versed in the industry. He has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of MasterCard/Visa and the standards of credit-card processing. Ken made it easy for me to navigate the program and also understand my rate structure. He makes himself available for any support needs I may have, and I especially appreciate his honesty. First Data has been a valuable partner to our business, and we strongly recommend it for all merchant credit-card processing.”

Call Ken Keifer at 424-903-6877 today to get started.

Liability Insurance Coverage

Accidents happen and staffing changes occur, so it is important for companies to be equipped for the potential outcome. As SEMA’s endorsed insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services (AIS)—doing business as the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) —delivers insurance solutions that protect your businesses.

SEIA starts by investing time to learn every aspect of the business, regardless of the size or category. Armed with years of experience and industry knowledge, SEIA agents expertly match core coverages according to members’ needs, such as property, general and products liability, workers’ compensation and employment liability.

Every SEIA customer receives a bundle of human-resource services through Strategic HR (a wholly owned division of AIS), and exclusive employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) products are available at SEMA-member discounts. EPLI policy limits start from $250,000, with the average company purchasing $1 million of limit.

Gary Chang of Top Line Products shared his experience.

“As business owners, our main focus toward achieving growth can often be sidetracked from not knowing if we have sufficient insurance coverage,” he said. “Bob Corwin and Alliant Insurance Services have provided our company with the expert knowledge of the intricacies of the insurance industry while always acting in the best interests of our company. Through delivering best-in-class insurance advice and consultation, Bob and AIS allow us the ability to refocus on growing our business, knowing that our insurance needs are covered.”

SEIA can do the same for your business. Call 800-390-9099 for more information and to begin the process.

Shipping and Business Services Discounts

	In addition to offering payment solutions and liability coverage through partners, SEMA works with UPS to give members discounted rates.

SEMA members also enjoy discounts on UPS services and solutions, including package deliveries, export rates and freight shipping. Savings on package delivery and freight rates are considerable for companies with smaller amounts of shipping. Members save up to 34% off next-day, second-day, third-day and commercial ground services and up to 17% off residential ground service. U.S. exports qualify for a 39% discount on international export rates.

UPS can also help members manage risk and cash flow with special offers from UPS Capital and the UPS Package Design and Test Lab. Members receive a 10% discount on qualifying business services at participating UPS Store locations. For SEMA members that need assistance with business processes such as sales, shipping, tracking and billing, members can also access several UPS Ready Program providers for turnkey software solutions.

“The SEMA shipping program in place with UPS allowed us to get discounted rates that kept us competitive in the market and helped us build a solid relationship with UPS,” said Jeremy Boysen of JB Autosports Inc.

To learn more about what UPS can do for you, call 800-325-7000.

For additional information about any of these services, visit www.sema.org/benefits, or call SEMA’s customer service team at 909-610-2030.
 

SEMA Member News—July/August 2015

Resources to Help Your Business Save and Grow

Members have heard a lot lately from SEMA’s membership department about some exciting new benefits. In addition to expanding services such as data management through the SEMA Data Co-op and product-development tools through the SEMA Garage, the association still collaborates with strategic partners to offer programs aimed at saving members on their business expenses. Here is a closer look at what First Data, the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance and UPS offer to members.

Fast, Convenient and Secure Payment Solutions

First Data provides credit-card processing solutions at low rates to SEMA members for processing retail, mail order, wholesale and e-commerce. The program features electronic payment solutions, including all major credit/debit cards, electronic checks and gift cards. In addition, members have access to easy, 24/7 online reporting.

Ease of enrollment is part of the benefit for SEMA members. All companies need to provide is a recent statement from their current credit-card processor. From there, First Data will perform the research and analysis necessary to determine if the program can offer additional savings.

“I was referred by a representative of SEMA to Ken Keifer, senior account executive,” said Raymond Andrade of 24 Hour Recreational Storage. “Ken has been with First Data for almost two decades and is very well versed in the industry. He has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of MasterCard/Visa and the standards of credit-card processing. Ken made it easy for me to navigate the program and also understand my rate structure. He makes himself available for any support needs I may have, and I especially appreciate his honesty. First Data has been a valuable partner to our business, and we strongly recommend it for all merchant credit-card processing.”

Call Ken Keifer at 424-903-6877 today to get started.

Liability Insurance Coverage

Accidents happen and staffing changes occur, so it is important for companies to be equipped for the potential outcome. As SEMA’s endorsed insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services (AIS)—doing business as the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA) —delivers insurance solutions that protect your businesses.

SEIA starts by investing time to learn every aspect of the business, regardless of the size or category. Armed with years of experience and industry knowledge, SEIA agents expertly match core coverages according to members’ needs, such as property, general and products liability, workers’ compensation and employment liability.

Every SEIA customer receives a bundle of human-resource services through Strategic HR (a wholly owned division of AIS), and exclusive employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) products are available at SEMA-member discounts. EPLI policy limits start from $250,000, with the average company purchasing $1 million of limit.

Gary Chang of Top Line Products shared his experience.

“As business owners, our main focus toward achieving growth can often be sidetracked from not knowing if we have sufficient insurance coverage,” he said. “Bob Corwin and Alliant Insurance Services have provided our company with the expert knowledge of the intricacies of the insurance industry while always acting in the best interests of our company. Through delivering best-in-class insurance advice and consultation, Bob and AIS allow us the ability to refocus on growing our business, knowing that our insurance needs are covered.”

SEIA can do the same for your business. Call 800-390-9099 for more information and to begin the process.

Shipping and Business Services Discounts

	In addition to offering payment solutions and liability coverage through partners, SEMA works with UPS to give members discounted rates.

SEMA members also enjoy discounts on UPS services and solutions, including package deliveries, export rates and freight shipping. Savings on package delivery and freight rates are considerable for companies with smaller amounts of shipping. Members save up to 34% off next-day, second-day, third-day and commercial ground services and up to 17% off residential ground service. U.S. exports qualify for a 39% discount on international export rates.

UPS can also help members manage risk and cash flow with special offers from UPS Capital and the UPS Package Design and Test Lab. Members receive a 10% discount on qualifying business services at participating UPS Store locations. For SEMA members that need assistance with business processes such as sales, shipping, tracking and billing, members can also access several UPS Ready Program providers for turnkey software solutions.

“The SEMA shipping program in place with UPS allowed us to get discounted rates that kept us competitive in the market and helped us build a solid relationship with UPS,” said Jeremy Boysen of JB Autosports Inc.

To learn more about what UPS can do for you, call 800-325-7000.

For additional information about any of these services, visit www.sema.org/benefits, or call SEMA’s customer service team at 909-610-2030.
 

SEMA News—July 2015

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Retail Spotlight

Velocity Automotive Group Serves Up American Performance in Europe

An automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse in Germany houses parts from more than 500 manufacturers.

Catering to a small niche market in Europe for the past 10 years, Velocity Automotive Group, based in Munich, imports and distributes parts from more than 500 manufacturers for American performance cars and trucks. This particular niche revolves around the Mustang, which is wildly popular in America but not nearly as common in Europe. However, according to Johannes Crepon, the company’s owner, the American performance market in Europe is still exciting because it’s so diverse. The customer base ranges from aging enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning and restoring a vintage Mustang to Millennials who prefer late-model Camaros, Corvettes and Ram trucks.

Extending the Portfolio

Velocity’s assorted offerings include repair, performance, restoration and custom modification parts. Some of the company’s best-selling parts are light modifications for late-model cars, brakes and suspension upgrades and other small modifications that enhance a car’s performance and appearance. The retailer is currently working to extend its portfolio to be able to serve all cars and trucks.

“We are focused on specific cars and not the manufacturer lines, so we sell a little bit of everybody’s parts,” Crepon said. “Since we already have relationships with all these manufacturers and vendors, we want to sell everything they offer. Our goal is to get our hands on everything that is out there in the market.”

With 11 employees, the company operates three facilities, including an automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse and an office building. A small consolidation warehouse in the United States enables the company to order, gather and ship every part from any vendor in the United States and Canada to Germany for distribution in Europe on a weekly basis.

Be Resilient

	A Velocity employee meets with a client in the customer receiving area to discuss customization options.

Velocity’s latest build is a ’66 Ford Mustang Trackday Edition. Modifications include an independent rear suspension, fuel injection and a rollcage.

According to Crepon, the financial crisis—which didn’t hit the American car business in Germany until 2012—was the biggest challenge he’d ever faced. Velocity experienced a lull that year, but since then, sales have increased by 15% per year.

In addition to the recession, Velocity’s “permanent” challenge is constantly coping with small businesses coming into the market that destroy pricing by disregarding high shipping costs and customs fees.

“They’re in business for half a year and then they disappear,” Crepon said. “They make the market appear to be lower priced than it actually is, and once one disappears, another one pops up.”

Spread the Word

Crepon believes that his business’ grade of professionalism is what sets it apart.

“We are not like the little Mustang specialist shop that you can only call in by phone and order your parts,” he said. “We try to offer a high level of service, which is why we’re growing.”

The retailer is able to offer such a large quantity of parts because of its ability to move them, which benefits the customer because parts are delivered faster and service is more reliable, according
to Crepon.

“We go one step farther, making each process in the customer’s purchase an experience,” Crepon said.

Crepon has attended the SEMA Show every year that Velocity has been in business. He uses the Show as a conduit for creating and fostering vendor and manufacturer relationships. Velocity also builds show cars as a means of gaining media publicity, and they are displayed at trade shows and conventions throughout the year. Satisfied customers are encouraged to spread the word, which Crepon considers his best form of advertising. The company also engages the public via social media, blogging and a newsletter that provides updates on new parts, specials and industry news, including when new Mustang models are being launched.

To enable future growth, Velocity participates as a receiver in the SEMA Data Co-op. Crepon would like to see more parts enriched with valuable data to make it easier for customers to find the correct parts, and he believes that the SEMA Data Co-op is a great source for
such data.

As a seasoned retailer who has experienced the economic highs and lows of the past 10 years, Crepon suggested that novices get their pricing right if they want to survive and also search for good partnerships.

“I see a lot of people out there trying to do everything on their own,” he said. “It works to some extent, but in total, it’s not really what you want to look for.”

SEMA News—July 2015

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Retail Spotlight

Velocity Automotive Group Serves Up American Performance in Europe

An automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse in Germany houses parts from more than 500 manufacturers.

Catering to a small niche market in Europe for the past 10 years, Velocity Automotive Group, based in Munich, imports and distributes parts from more than 500 manufacturers for American performance cars and trucks. This particular niche revolves around the Mustang, which is wildly popular in America but not nearly as common in Europe. However, according to Johannes Crepon, the company’s owner, the American performance market in Europe is still exciting because it’s so diverse. The customer base ranges from aging enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning and restoring a vintage Mustang to Millennials who prefer late-model Camaros, Corvettes and Ram trucks.

Extending the Portfolio

Velocity’s assorted offerings include repair, performance, restoration and custom modification parts. Some of the company’s best-selling parts are light modifications for late-model cars, brakes and suspension upgrades and other small modifications that enhance a car’s performance and appearance. The retailer is currently working to extend its portfolio to be able to serve all cars and trucks.

“We are focused on specific cars and not the manufacturer lines, so we sell a little bit of everybody’s parts,” Crepon said. “Since we already have relationships with all these manufacturers and vendors, we want to sell everything they offer. Our goal is to get our hands on everything that is out there in the market.”

With 11 employees, the company operates three facilities, including an automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse and an office building. A small consolidation warehouse in the United States enables the company to order, gather and ship every part from any vendor in the United States and Canada to Germany for distribution in Europe on a weekly basis.

Be Resilient

	A Velocity employee meets with a client in the customer receiving area to discuss customization options.

Velocity’s latest build is a ’66 Ford Mustang Trackday Edition. Modifications include an independent rear suspension, fuel injection and a rollcage.

According to Crepon, the financial crisis—which didn’t hit the American car business in Germany until 2012—was the biggest challenge he’d ever faced. Velocity experienced a lull that year, but since then, sales have increased by 15% per year.

In addition to the recession, Velocity’s “permanent” challenge is constantly coping with small businesses coming into the market that destroy pricing by disregarding high shipping costs and customs fees.

“They’re in business for half a year and then they disappear,” Crepon said. “They make the market appear to be lower priced than it actually is, and once one disappears, another one pops up.”

Spread the Word

Crepon believes that his business’ grade of professionalism is what sets it apart.

“We are not like the little Mustang specialist shop that you can only call in by phone and order your parts,” he said. “We try to offer a high level of service, which is why we’re growing.”

The retailer is able to offer such a large quantity of parts because of its ability to move them, which benefits the customer because parts are delivered faster and service is more reliable, according
to Crepon.

“We go one step farther, making each process in the customer’s purchase an experience,” Crepon said.

Crepon has attended the SEMA Show every year that Velocity has been in business. He uses the Show as a conduit for creating and fostering vendor and manufacturer relationships. Velocity also builds show cars as a means of gaining media publicity, and they are displayed at trade shows and conventions throughout the year. Satisfied customers are encouraged to spread the word, which Crepon considers his best form of advertising. The company also engages the public via social media, blogging and a newsletter that provides updates on new parts, specials and industry news, including when new Mustang models are being launched.

To enable future growth, Velocity participates as a receiver in the SEMA Data Co-op. Crepon would like to see more parts enriched with valuable data to make it easier for customers to find the correct parts, and he believes that the SEMA Data Co-op is a great source for
such data.

As a seasoned retailer who has experienced the economic highs and lows of the past 10 years, Crepon suggested that novices get their pricing right if they want to survive and also search for good partnerships.

“I see a lot of people out there trying to do everything on their own,” he said. “It works to some extent, but in total, it’s not really what you want to look for.”

SEMA News—July 2015

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Retail Spotlight

Velocity Automotive Group Serves Up American Performance in Europe

An automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse in Germany houses parts from more than 500 manufacturers.

Catering to a small niche market in Europe for the past 10 years, Velocity Automotive Group, based in Munich, imports and distributes parts from more than 500 manufacturers for American performance cars and trucks. This particular niche revolves around the Mustang, which is wildly popular in America but not nearly as common in Europe. However, according to Johannes Crepon, the company’s owner, the American performance market in Europe is still exciting because it’s so diverse. The customer base ranges from aging enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning and restoring a vintage Mustang to Millennials who prefer late-model Camaros, Corvettes and Ram trucks.

Extending the Portfolio

Velocity’s assorted offerings include repair, performance, restoration and custom modification parts. Some of the company’s best-selling parts are light modifications for late-model cars, brakes and suspension upgrades and other small modifications that enhance a car’s performance and appearance. The retailer is currently working to extend its portfolio to be able to serve all cars and trucks.

“We are focused on specific cars and not the manufacturer lines, so we sell a little bit of everybody’s parts,” Crepon said. “Since we already have relationships with all these manufacturers and vendors, we want to sell everything they offer. Our goal is to get our hands on everything that is out there in the market.”

With 11 employees, the company operates three facilities, including an automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse and an office building. A small consolidation warehouse in the United States enables the company to order, gather and ship every part from any vendor in the United States and Canada to Germany for distribution in Europe on a weekly basis.

Be Resilient

	A Velocity employee meets with a client in the customer receiving area to discuss customization options.

Velocity’s latest build is a ’66 Ford Mustang Trackday Edition. Modifications include an independent rear suspension, fuel injection and a rollcage.

According to Crepon, the financial crisis—which didn’t hit the American car business in Germany until 2012—was the biggest challenge he’d ever faced. Velocity experienced a lull that year, but since then, sales have increased by 15% per year.

In addition to the recession, Velocity’s “permanent” challenge is constantly coping with small businesses coming into the market that destroy pricing by disregarding high shipping costs and customs fees.

“They’re in business for half a year and then they disappear,” Crepon said. “They make the market appear to be lower priced than it actually is, and once one disappears, another one pops up.”

Spread the Word

Crepon believes that his business’ grade of professionalism is what sets it apart.

“We are not like the little Mustang specialist shop that you can only call in by phone and order your parts,” he said. “We try to offer a high level of service, which is why we’re growing.”

The retailer is able to offer such a large quantity of parts because of its ability to move them, which benefits the customer because parts are delivered faster and service is more reliable, according
to Crepon.

“We go one step farther, making each process in the customer’s purchase an experience,” Crepon said.

Crepon has attended the SEMA Show every year that Velocity has been in business. He uses the Show as a conduit for creating and fostering vendor and manufacturer relationships. Velocity also builds show cars as a means of gaining media publicity, and they are displayed at trade shows and conventions throughout the year. Satisfied customers are encouraged to spread the word, which Crepon considers his best form of advertising. The company also engages the public via social media, blogging and a newsletter that provides updates on new parts, specials and industry news, including when new Mustang models are being launched.

To enable future growth, Velocity participates as a receiver in the SEMA Data Co-op. Crepon would like to see more parts enriched with valuable data to make it easier for customers to find the correct parts, and he believes that the SEMA Data Co-op is a great source for
such data.

As a seasoned retailer who has experienced the economic highs and lows of the past 10 years, Crepon suggested that novices get their pricing right if they want to survive and also search for good partnerships.

“I see a lot of people out there trying to do everything on their own,” he said. “It works to some extent, but in total, it’s not really what you want to look for.”

SEMA News—July 2015

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Retail Spotlight

Velocity Automotive Group Serves Up American Performance in Europe

An automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse in Germany houses parts from more than 500 manufacturers.

Catering to a small niche market in Europe for the past 10 years, Velocity Automotive Group, based in Munich, imports and distributes parts from more than 500 manufacturers for American performance cars and trucks. This particular niche revolves around the Mustang, which is wildly popular in America but not nearly as common in Europe. However, according to Johannes Crepon, the company’s owner, the American performance market in Europe is still exciting because it’s so diverse. The customer base ranges from aging enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning and restoring a vintage Mustang to Millennials who prefer late-model Camaros, Corvettes and Ram trucks.

Extending the Portfolio

Velocity’s assorted offerings include repair, performance, restoration and custom modification parts. Some of the company’s best-selling parts are light modifications for late-model cars, brakes and suspension upgrades and other small modifications that enhance a car’s performance and appearance. The retailer is currently working to extend its portfolio to be able to serve all cars and trucks.

“We are focused on specific cars and not the manufacturer lines, so we sell a little bit of everybody’s parts,” Crepon said. “Since we already have relationships with all these manufacturers and vendors, we want to sell everything they offer. Our goal is to get our hands on everything that is out there in the market.”

With 11 employees, the company operates three facilities, including an automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse and an office building. A small consolidation warehouse in the United States enables the company to order, gather and ship every part from any vendor in the United States and Canada to Germany for distribution in Europe on a weekly basis.

Be Resilient

	A Velocity employee meets with a client in the customer receiving area to discuss customization options.

Velocity’s latest build is a ’66 Ford Mustang Trackday Edition. Modifications include an independent rear suspension, fuel injection and a rollcage.

According to Crepon, the financial crisis—which didn’t hit the American car business in Germany until 2012—was the biggest challenge he’d ever faced. Velocity experienced a lull that year, but since then, sales have increased by 15% per year.

In addition to the recession, Velocity’s “permanent” challenge is constantly coping with small businesses coming into the market that destroy pricing by disregarding high shipping costs and customs fees.

“They’re in business for half a year and then they disappear,” Crepon said. “They make the market appear to be lower priced than it actually is, and once one disappears, another one pops up.”

Spread the Word

Crepon believes that his business’ grade of professionalism is what sets it apart.

“We are not like the little Mustang specialist shop that you can only call in by phone and order your parts,” he said. “We try to offer a high level of service, which is why we’re growing.”

The retailer is able to offer such a large quantity of parts because of its ability to move them, which benefits the customer because parts are delivered faster and service is more reliable, according
to Crepon.

“We go one step farther, making each process in the customer’s purchase an experience,” Crepon said.

Crepon has attended the SEMA Show every year that Velocity has been in business. He uses the Show as a conduit for creating and fostering vendor and manufacturer relationships. Velocity also builds show cars as a means of gaining media publicity, and they are displayed at trade shows and conventions throughout the year. Satisfied customers are encouraged to spread the word, which Crepon considers his best form of advertising. The company also engages the public via social media, blogging and a newsletter that provides updates on new parts, specials and industry news, including when new Mustang models are being launched.

To enable future growth, Velocity participates as a receiver in the SEMA Data Co-op. Crepon would like to see more parts enriched with valuable data to make it easier for customers to find the correct parts, and he believes that the SEMA Data Co-op is a great source for
such data.

As a seasoned retailer who has experienced the economic highs and lows of the past 10 years, Crepon suggested that novices get their pricing right if they want to survive and also search for good partnerships.

“I see a lot of people out there trying to do everything on their own,” he said. “It works to some extent, but in total, it’s not really what you want to look for.”

SEMA News—July 2015

BUSINESS
By Chad Simon

Retail Spotlight

Velocity Automotive Group Serves Up American Performance in Europe

An automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse in Germany houses parts from more than 500 manufacturers.

Catering to a small niche market in Europe for the past 10 years, Velocity Automotive Group, based in Munich, imports and distributes parts from more than 500 manufacturers for American performance cars and trucks. This particular niche revolves around the Mustang, which is wildly popular in America but not nearly as common in Europe. However, according to Johannes Crepon, the company’s owner, the American performance market in Europe is still exciting because it’s so diverse. The customer base ranges from aging enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning and restoring a vintage Mustang to Millennials who prefer late-model Camaros, Corvettes and Ram trucks.

Extending the Portfolio

Velocity’s assorted offerings include repair, performance, restoration and custom modification parts. Some of the company’s best-selling parts are light modifications for late-model cars, brakes and suspension upgrades and other small modifications that enhance a car’s performance and appearance. The retailer is currently working to extend its portfolio to be able to serve all cars and trucks.

“We are focused on specific cars and not the manufacturer lines, so we sell a little bit of everybody’s parts,” Crepon said. “Since we already have relationships with all these manufacturers and vendors, we want to sell everything they offer. Our goal is to get our hands on everything that is out there in the market.”

With 11 employees, the company operates three facilities, including an automated 11,000-sq.-ft. warehouse and an office building. A small consolidation warehouse in the United States enables the company to order, gather and ship every part from any vendor in the United States and Canada to Germany for distribution in Europe on a weekly basis.

Be Resilient

	A Velocity employee meets with a client in the customer receiving area to discuss customization options.

Velocity’s latest build is a ’66 Ford Mustang Trackday Edition. Modifications include an independent rear suspension, fuel injection and a rollcage.

According to Crepon, the financial crisis—which didn’t hit the American car business in Germany until 2012—was the biggest challenge he’d ever faced. Velocity experienced a lull that year, but since then, sales have increased by 15% per year.

In addition to the recession, Velocity’s “permanent” challenge is constantly coping with small businesses coming into the market that destroy pricing by disregarding high shipping costs and customs fees.

“They’re in business for half a year and then they disappear,” Crepon said. “They make the market appear to be lower priced than it actually is, and once one disappears, another one pops up.”

Spread the Word

Crepon believes that his business’ grade of professionalism is what sets it apart.

“We are not like the little Mustang specialist shop that you can only call in by phone and order your parts,” he said. “We try to offer a high level of service, which is why we’re growing.”

The retailer is able to offer such a large quantity of parts because of its ability to move them, which benefits the customer because parts are delivered faster and service is more reliable, according
to Crepon.

“We go one step farther, making each process in the customer’s purchase an experience,” Crepon said.

Crepon has attended the SEMA Show every year that Velocity has been in business. He uses the Show as a conduit for creating and fostering vendor and manufacturer relationships. Velocity also builds show cars as a means of gaining media publicity, and they are displayed at trade shows and conventions throughout the year. Satisfied customers are encouraged to spread the word, which Crepon considers his best form of advertising. The company also engages the public via social media, blogging and a newsletter that provides updates on new parts, specials and industry news, including when new Mustang models are being launched.

To enable future growth, Velocity participates as a receiver in the SEMA Data Co-op. Crepon would like to see more parts enriched with valuable data to make it easier for customers to find the correct parts, and he believes that the SEMA Data Co-op is a great source for
such data.

As a seasoned retailer who has experienced the economic highs and lows of the past 10 years, Crepon suggested that novices get their pricing right if they want to survive and also search for good partnerships.

“I see a lot of people out there trying to do everything on their own,” he said. “It works to some extent, but in total, it’s not really what you want to look for.”