By Jay Carpio
The SEMA Video Archives is about re-living special moments in our industry’s history. From interviews with industry legends to SEMA Show recaps and more, these videos offer viewers a chance to watch our SEMA Family doing what it does best—working hard, pushing the limits and having a little bit of fun, too.
This week’s video features interviews with 2018 Battle of the Builders judge Fred Williams, 2018 BOTB Young Gun Winner Kyle Kuhnhausen and the SEMA Cares Ford F-250.
By Chris Kersting
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Currently the industry is making tremendous adjustments, not only to our businesses but also to our personal lives. At this stage, we’re still getting more information about the various ways that companies are adapting to the COVID economy. As an industry, we can be proud of how we are continuing to find ways to do business while providing for the health, safety and well-being of all involved.
For the very latest information on C-19 resources, visit www.sema.org/coronavirus, which we keep continuously updated. There you’ll find content leading to resources and other tools the association has developed to help the industry navigate the COVID restrictions. SEMA is also continuing to work with lawmakers to push for further assistance for businesses in our industry.
Contemplating the future, it’s not easy to know where we’ll stand in the months ahead. But longer term, there are certain things we can count on. We know that no matter what, this virus won’t be permanent. And no matter what, there will be passionate enthusiasts who will continue to demand our industry’s products. No matter what, the people in this industry will dig in, persevere, and find ways to make it across this gap--and no matter what, this industry will be here to make and sell great products to meet that demand.
We know these things because we’ve faced enormous difficulty and challenges in the past. And there will be better times ahead - probably sooner than it feels right now.
While many near-term industry events have been postponed or canceled, the industry’s manufacturers are currently going full-bore with plans and preparations for both the 2020 SEMA Show in November and the PRI Show in December. I’m not surprised. Our industry has historically demonstrated fortitude and resolve in the face of adversity. The SEMA Show was the first major business gathering in the U.S. following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. In the heart of the Great Recession in 2009 and 2010, SEMA exhibitors and buyers again turned out in force, laying the groundwork for the recovery that followed. Currently, we see that the vast majority of member companies are planning to exhibit this year, and some 2,000 plus are expected to take part in this month’s booth selection process. They are determined that the SEMA Show will help launch the industry into a successful 2021.
To that end, we have been working with members to assist in a variety of ways, offering flexibility, refundable deposits and deferred deadlines. And we will continue to engage with industry members and adapt to the changing environment as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, don’t overlook the toolbox of current SEMA services and tools that are relevant as members work to get across the current business gap. This could be a very good time to engage with the SEMA Data Coop (SDC) to make sure you have your digital product data in order and your e-commerce presence optimized. The SEMA Garage can assist with product development tools (Tech Transfer, 3D scanning) and emissions testing and certification matters. And this may also be a good time to access SEMA’s archived educational videos, market studies and reports. Head to the SEMA.org website for information and staff contacts on all the above.
As we move through the current challenges, we are reminded of past tough times and the reality that we endured and have always come out stronger. This is a stout industry that makes up a capable association. Working together, I’m optimistic we will continue to persevere and thrive.
By Ashley Reyes
 The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. |
The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.
The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:
The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.
“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”
Mark your calendars for May 18, at which time you will be able to place a bid for the UTV on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.
By Ashley Reyes
The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. |
The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.
The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:
The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.
“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”
Mark your calendars for May 18, at which time you will be able to place a bid for the UTV on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.
By Ashley Reyes
The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. |
The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is going on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer on May 18. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.
The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:
The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.
“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”
Mark your calendars for May 18, at which time you will be able to place a bid for the UTV on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.
By Jason Catullo
 Starting earlier this week, Show representatives began systematically contacting exhibitors based on Show section. Watch the Show take shape by viewing the online floorplan, www.semashow.com/floorplan, which is updated every 30 minutes. |
The 2020 SEMA Show Priority Space Selection is currently in full swing, running now until Monday, May 18. Watch the Show take shape by viewing the online floorplan, www.semashow.com/floorplan, which is updated every 30 minutes.
Starting earlier this week, Show representatives began systematically contacting exhibitors based on Show section. Companies with the highest levels of seniority kicked-off the process, which will continue section-by-section until all of the companies with three years of seniority or more have made their selections.
During the next phase, companies with two years of seniority or less will be contacted to to select spaces in all of the Show's sections.
SEMA Show management anticipates a nearly full Las Vegas Convention Center, with exhibitor overflow in the Wesgate Hotel.
Want to exhibit in 2020? Visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth to get started.
 The SEMA Show is a yearly trend-spotting event for buyers, and serves as a reflection of what’s burgeoning in the industry. | |
Taking place November 3-6, in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is a yearly trend-spotting event for buyers, and serves as a reflection of what’s burgeoning in the industry, whether it’s new products, innovative tools to increase production or the latest in application and service techniques.
For more information about the Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.
Earlier this month, each participating company was contacted via email with their booth selection date and time range. The email was sent to the person listed as the exhibitor’s primary SEMA Show contact. NOTE: Companies that have not received a correspondence or want to change the primary Show contact listed on the application should email sales@sema.org, or call 909-396-0289. If you are not available to receive a phone call at the time of your selection, you may also appoint a proxy representative by filling out the proxy form at www.semashow.com/proxy.
By Jason Catullo
| Starting earlier this week, Show representatives began systematically contacting exhibitors based on Show section. Watch the Show take shape by viewing the online floorplan, www.semashow.com/floorplan, which is updated every 30 minutes. |
The 2020 SEMA Show Priority Space Selection is currently in full swing, running now until Monday, May 18. Watch the Show take shape by viewing the online floorplan, www.semashow.com/floorplan, which is updated every 30 minutes.
Starting earlier this week, Show representatives began systematically contacting exhibitors based on Show section. Companies with the highest levels of seniority kicked-off the process, which will continue section-by-section until all of the companies with three years of seniority or more have made their selections.
During the next phase, companies with two years of seniority or less will be contacted to to select spaces in all of the Show's sections.
SEMA Show management anticipates a nearly full Las Vegas Convention Center, with exhibitor overflow in the Wesgate Hotel.
Want to exhibit in 2020? Visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth to get started.
| The SEMA Show is a yearly trend-spotting event for buyers, and serves as a reflection of what’s burgeoning in the industry. | |
Taking place November 3-6, in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is a yearly trend-spotting event for buyers, and serves as a reflection of what’s burgeoning in the industry, whether it’s new products, innovative tools to increase production or the latest in application and service techniques.
For more information about the Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.
Earlier this month, each participating company was contacted via email with their booth selection date and time range. The email was sent to the person listed as the exhibitor’s primary SEMA Show contact. NOTE: Companies that have not received a correspondence or want to change the primary Show contact listed on the application should email sales@sema.org, or call 909-396-0289. If you are not available to receive a phone call at the time of your selection, you may also appoint a proxy representative by filling out the proxy form at www.semashow.com/proxy.
Compiled by SEMA Editors
 Stinger Chemical donated 4-oz. bottles and gallons of hand sanitizer to the Houston Fire Department. |
Stinger Chemical Donates Sanitizing Products to Houston Fire Department
Stinger Chemical is switching gears to produce a line of sanitizing products to support those individuals who are on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. The company donated 4-oz. bottles and gallons of hand sanitizer to the Houston Fire Department. Despite a shortage of raw materials and great demand globally, the company has managed to produce thousands of gallons of sanitizing products in the month of April.
Hopkins Acquires Roadsport Splash Guards From NuVue
Hopkins Manufacturing Corp. has announced that it and its subsidiary, Hopkins Canada Inc. have acquired the retail automotive splash guard product lines from NuVue Products Inc., of Buffalo, New York, and NuVue Products Ltd., of Ontario, Canada, formerly known as Powerflow. The acquisition includes the established brand names RoadSport, Big Mudder, ProFit, BadgeZ, RoadGuard and Defender Tow Guard, plus the inventory, patents and intellectual property for the splash guard and mud flap lines. The acquisition supplements Hopkins existing vehicle and automotive accessory product lines and leverages its North American manufacturing and distribution capabilities. Hopkins will integrate manufacturing of these product lines to its Emporia, Kansas, facility and distribute from its Edgerton, Kansas, and Blenheim, Ontario, distribution centers, where it currently distributes its vehicle accessory, winter, towing, cleaning, fluid management and other product lines to the North American and export markets.
 Adam’s Polishes has given away more than 12,000 combined bottles of hand sanitizer, hand soap and home surface cleaner. |
Adam’s Polishes Shifts Manufacturing to Produce Hand Soap, Sanitizer and Surface Cleaner
Adam’s Polishes has shifted its car care product manufacturing to produce hand soap, home surface cleaner and hand sanitizer. Since March 19, the company has given away more than 12,000 combined bottles of these products.
Pro Spot Extends 0% Financing Offer to Assist During COVID-19
Pro Spot has announced that it is extending its 0% for 12 months Affordable Financing Plan and also adding in 2.9% for 24 months. Working with its distribution network all across the country, Pro Spot is offering a 0 down, 0% financing for 12 months, and 2.9% for 24 months to assist collision repair shops.
Details:
AO Coolers Producing Face Masks
AO Coolers is helping out during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now producing and distributing non-medical face masks to try and help prevent the spreading of germs. For more information, visit www.aocoolers.com.
 Icahn Automotive will award $30,000 in scholarships for the 2020–2021 school year. |
Icahn Automotive Scholarship Program Invites Aspiring Technicians to “Find Your Drive”
Icahn Automotive, which owns and operates repair and maintenance providers Pep Boys, AAMCO, Precision Tune Auto Care and RPM Automotive, will award $30,000 in scholarships for the 2020–2021 school year. Twelve scholarships of $2,500 each will be available to qualified students studying to become professional automotive technicians. Students can begin the application process on Icahn’s website. This second annual scholarship program is part of Icahn Automotive’s “Race to 2026” initiative that aims to increase the number of trained technicians and help fill an industry-wide talent gap projected to grow to 46,000 over the next six years. The scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing an automotive technician degree or certification through a full- or part-time high school, college or trade school program. Applications are being accepted until June 5, 2020, and recipients will be announced in late June. In addition to the application, students must meet certain academic requirements, provide a written or video essay describing “Why I want to be a top technician,” and submit two letters of recommendation. All applications and related materials will be reviewed by the Icahn Automotive scholarship committee.
 Sean Lannoo |
Continental Promotes Sean Lannoo to Sales Technical Training Supervisor
Continental has named Sean Lannoo as sales technical training supervisor for the company’s VDO, REDI-Sensor, ATE, Autodiagnos and ClearContact aftermarket product lines. Lannoo leads a team of 11 training specialists who provide technical support and education on Continental aftermarket product lines to customer sales personnel and professional technicians throughout the United States and Canada. These activities include presenting and demonstrating the capabilities and advantages of Continental’s aftermarket technology and OE quality replacement parts programs. Lannoo joined Continental in 2013 as the sales technical training specialist for the company’s VDO-branded aftermarket product lines. Since then, Lannoo has expanded the scope and reach of the program to encompass all of Continental’s aftermarket products. Lannoo had previously been with Continental from 1997–2010, where he played a key technical support role, serving as both an engineering analyst and product manager. In addition to his TPMS work, Lannoo also handled the company’s aftermarket instrumentation, ATE Brakes, in-vehicle GPS navigation systems and audio systems. Prior to rejoining Continental, Lannoo worked in the Power Generation industry, serving as the inside sales technical expert for Davidson Sales Co. in Daytona Beach, Florida.
 Vintage Air has designed and manufactured a limited run of high-quality face shields for those who need them. |
Vintage Air Designs and Manufactures Personal Protective Equipment
With a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) around the world, Vintage Air has designed and manufactured a limited run of high-quality face shields for those who need them. Designed with input from family practice physician Dr. Brett M. Woehr of San Antonio, Texas, according to Vintage Air, the CS-1 professional-grade, high-visibility face shields are comfortable, durable and can withstand regular cleaning, and are available for $20 each, which covers the cost of materials. To order face shields for you or your company, contact Marx Henry, Vintage Air marketing manager, at 210-296-2327, ext.127 or mhenry@vintageair.com.
4 Wheel Parts Offering Free Inspections, Alignment and Tire Rotations to First Responders
4 Wheel Parts is offering free inspections, alignment and tire rotations to all first responders, medical and essential workers at 4 Wheel Parts installation locations through May 31. Call 800-284-9840 to schedule an appointment.
Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.
By Ashley Reyes
 SEMA members are invited to learn how to protect their assets and aggressively manage costs in SEMA Education’s free webinar “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place next Tuesday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT). |
In times of economic uncertainty, the challenges of managing costs are greater than ever before. Companies are torn between protecting their assets and increasing investments, particularly when considering lost revenue from shutdowns and potential decrease in consumer demand.
SEMA members are invited to learn how to protect their assets and aggressively manage costs in SEMA Education’s free webinar “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place next Tuesday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT). The webinar, presented by CEO and Founder of the Brainzooming Group Mike Brown, will provide proven strategies to help SEMA members look to the future in a strategic manner and identify techniques to make up for lost revenue.
The half-hour webinar is part four of SEMA’s Jumpstart Business Operations Webinar Series—a special six-part program presented by SEMA Education in partnership with Brown to help SEMA-member companies respond and plan for changes resulting from the Coronavirus situation.
“It’s our goal to provide SEMA members with the knowledge and resources they need to create a successful revenue management strategy amidst the current climate,” said Zane Clark, SEMA senior director of education. “As companies prepare to re-open their doors, it’s important to have a recovery plan in place. This webinar will help them do just that.”
Preregister now for “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT).
Participants who preregister and attend a webinar may qualify to win a subscription to Brown’s “Strategy for Success: Strategic Planning Made Simple.” The 11-module e-course includes targeted video lessons, downloaded guides and turn-key exercises, valued at $549. This resource is designed to eliminate trial-and-error and quickly implement an innovative approach to strategy and create effective strategic plans that you can put into action right away.
By Ashley Reyes
SEMA members are invited to learn how to protect their assets and aggressively manage costs in SEMA Education’s free webinar “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place next Tuesday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT). |
In times of economic uncertainty, the challenges of managing costs are greater than ever before. Companies are torn between protecting their assets and increasing investments, particularly when considering lost revenue from shutdowns and potential decrease in consumer demand.
SEMA members are invited to learn how to protect their assets and aggressively manage costs in SEMA Education’s free webinar “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place next Tuesday, May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT). The webinar, presented by CEO and Founder of the Brainzooming Group Mike Brown, will provide proven strategies to help SEMA members look to the future in a strategic manner and identify techniques to make up for lost revenue.
The half-hour webinar is part four of SEMA’s Jumpstart Business Operations Webinar Series—a special six-part program presented by SEMA Education in partnership with Brown to help SEMA-member companies respond and plan for changes resulting from the Coronavirus situation.
“It’s our goal to provide SEMA members with the knowledge and resources they need to create a successful revenue management strategy amidst the current climate,” said Zane Clark, SEMA senior director of education. “As companies prepare to re-open their doors, it’s important to have a recovery plan in place. This webinar will help them do just that.”
Preregister now for “Adjusting to Lower Demand and Finding New Ways to Grow,” taking place May 12, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT).
Participants who preregister and attend a webinar may qualify to win a subscription to Brown’s “Strategy for Success: Strategic Planning Made Simple.” The 11-module e-course includes targeted video lessons, downloaded guides and turn-key exercises, valued at $549. This resource is designed to eliminate trial-and-error and quickly implement an innovative approach to strategy and create effective strategic plans that you can put into action right away.
