News | Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 10:57

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, continuing this week with Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing & Performance section is one of the most expansive specialty markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by the New Product Showcase, interest in the market is high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Eric Jurado

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? I have been in the automotive performance industry for 16 years.

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2005 was my first SEMA Show.

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
SEMA gives the exhibitors Direct Access to the market; The SEMA system gives exhibitors the ability to reach their primary market efficiently through our proven market strategies.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
It is important to maintain your regular presence through the SEMA marketing channels. With regular presence in SEMA, the exhibitor will continue to develop awareness, thereby reinforcing the company’s position in the marketplace.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Many new companies come in with a big story to tell, and oftentimes remain a secret throughout the show. They rely on their exhibit display alone and do not take full advantage of all trade-show marketing opportunities.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Pre-show marketing dramatically increases sales. Exhibitors who market themselves attract 56% more buyers than those who do not. I can work with the exhibitor to get the attention of that buyer, get them to the website, get them to the exhibit, get them to contact the exhibitor to inquire about being a dealer, and get them to be part of distribution network. What are you doing to bring buyers into your booth?

Brendan Gillespie

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5 years

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
New exhibitors should be sure to attend the Exhibitor Summit to learn how to make the most of their SEMA Show investment. All exhibitors should also enter a new or featured product into the New Products Showcase.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Pre-market your presence at the Show. Know who you’re going after and target those potential buyers. They will NOT just fall into your lap; you need to have a plan!

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Not making use of the resources that are available to you as an exhibitor. When you are approved for a booth, there are numerous free and paid opportunities available to you to promote your booth. Be sure to enter a new product and submit a press release, but also, try to attend the Exhibitor Summit!

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
The number-one resource for exhibitors is the Exhibitor Services Manual (www.semashow.com/esm). Here you will find pertinent information and deadlines that will help you plan and stay on track for a very successful Show.

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 10:57

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, continuing this week with Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing & Performance section is one of the most expansive specialty markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by the New Product Showcase, interest in the market is high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Eric Jurado

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? I have been in the automotive performance industry for 16 years.

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2005 was my first SEMA Show.

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
SEMA gives the exhibitors Direct Access to the market; The SEMA system gives exhibitors the ability to reach their primary market efficiently through our proven market strategies.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
It is important to maintain your regular presence through the SEMA marketing channels. With regular presence in SEMA, the exhibitor will continue to develop awareness, thereby reinforcing the company’s position in the marketplace.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Many new companies come in with a big story to tell, and oftentimes remain a secret throughout the show. They rely on their exhibit display alone and do not take full advantage of all trade-show marketing opportunities.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Pre-show marketing dramatically increases sales. Exhibitors who market themselves attract 56% more buyers than those who do not. I can work with the exhibitor to get the attention of that buyer, get them to the website, get them to the exhibit, get them to contact the exhibitor to inquire about being a dealer, and get them to be part of distribution network. What are you doing to bring buyers into your booth?

Brendan Gillespie

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5 years

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
New exhibitors should be sure to attend the Exhibitor Summit to learn how to make the most of their SEMA Show investment. All exhibitors should also enter a new or featured product into the New Products Showcase.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Pre-market your presence at the Show. Know who you’re going after and target those potential buyers. They will NOT just fall into your lap; you need to have a plan!

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Not making use of the resources that are available to you as an exhibitor. When you are approved for a booth, there are numerous free and paid opportunities available to you to promote your booth. Be sure to enter a new product and submit a press release, but also, try to attend the Exhibitor Summit!

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
The number-one resource for exhibitors is the Exhibitor Services Manual (www.semashow.com/esm). Here you will find pertinent information and deadlines that will help you plan and stay on track for a very successful Show.

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 10:57

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, continuing this week with Brendan Gillespie and Eric Jurado, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing & Performance section is one of the most expansive specialty markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by the New Product Showcase, interest in the market is high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Eric Jurado

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? I have been in the automotive performance industry for 16 years.

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2005 was my first SEMA Show.

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
SEMA gives the exhibitors Direct Access to the market; The SEMA system gives exhibitors the ability to reach their primary market efficiently through our proven market strategies.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
It is important to maintain your regular presence through the SEMA marketing channels. With regular presence in SEMA, the exhibitor will continue to develop awareness, thereby reinforcing the company’s position in the marketplace.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Many new companies come in with a big story to tell, and oftentimes remain a secret throughout the show. They rely on their exhibit display alone and do not take full advantage of all trade-show marketing opportunities.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Pre-show marketing dramatically increases sales. Exhibitors who market themselves attract 56% more buyers than those who do not. I can work with the exhibitor to get the attention of that buyer, get them to the website, get them to the exhibit, get them to contact the exhibitor to inquire about being a dealer, and get them to be part of distribution network. What are you doing to bring buyers into your booth?

Brendan Gillespie

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5 years

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
New exhibitors should be sure to attend the Exhibitor Summit to learn how to make the most of their SEMA Show investment. All exhibitors should also enter a new or featured product into the New Products Showcase.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Pre-market your presence at the Show. Know who you’re going after and target those potential buyers. They will NOT just fall into your lap; you need to have a plan!

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Not making use of the resources that are available to you as an exhibitor. When you are approved for a booth, there are numerous free and paid opportunities available to you to promote your booth. Be sure to enter a new product and submit a press release, but also, try to attend the Exhibitor Summit!

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
The number-one resource for exhibitors is the Exhibitor Services Manual (www.semashow.com/esm). Here you will find pertinent information and deadlines that will help you plan and stay on track for a very successful Show.

Video—Exclusive Interview With Shell Director of Marketing Don Moser

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 09:22

Shell participated in the 2018 SEMA Show for the fourth consecutive year, exhibiting in the outdoor area with a stage and interactive activities. Hear from Don Moser as he shares insights on Shell's current initiatives.

Video—Exclusive Interview With Shell Director of Marketing Don Moser

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 09:22

Shell participated in the 2018 SEMA Show for the fourth consecutive year, exhibiting in the outdoor area with a stage and interactive activities. Hear from Don Moser as he shares insights on Shell's current initiatives.

New Products From Members of the SEMA Data Co-op

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 09:08

By Douglas McColloch

The SEMA Data Co-op is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers, and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

Holley NOS Dry Nitrous Plates Holley has released new NOS Dry Nitrous Plates for its LS Hi-Ram EFI intake manifolds. Said to be the fastest and easiest way to upgrade to a dry-nitrous system, the plates bolt up between the top plate and bottom baseplate on two-piece Hi-Ram LS manifolds in a one-piece configuration. Specially designed .103-inch passages machined into the billet 6061-T6 aluminum plate spray fuel through eight .040-inch openings into the center of each intake runner for optimal nitrous distribution and maximum power output. The plates come complete with jetting for 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 additional horsepower, but are said to be able to handle upwards of 1,000 horsepower. Available in black-anodized or clear designs, the kits include the plate itself, jet holders, an application-specific gasket, and all hardware needed for installation. 270-782-2900 www.holley.com PN 12535BNOS
Roush Performance 2018-19 Mustang/F-150 5.0L Supercharger Rush Performance has received CARB E.O. numbers for its new TVS R2650 Phase 1 Supercharger Kit for the 2018-19 Ford Mustang and F-150 pickup. The complete kits, which are said to be a direct bolt-on, boost power levels on the Mustang 5.0L V-8 to 700 horsepower and 610 lbs-ft of torque; power output for the F-150’s 5.0L is said to be improved to 650 horsepower and 610 lbs-ft. Developed in partnership with Ford Performance, the new supercharger combines a new, larger 2.65-liter Roots-type positive-displacement blower with a custom aluminum intercooler and heat exchanger; an additional rotor helix for greater efficiency and power delivery; and an included high-performance engine calibration tune. The supercharger comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile limited powertrain warranty when installed at a Ford dealership or by an ASE-certified technician. 800-597-6874 www.roushperformance.com PN 422090
Sinister Diesel 1999-2016 Powerstroke Master Cylinder Cap Sinister Diesel Manufacturing has released a new Master Cylinder Cap for 1999-2016 Ford Super Duty trucks equipped with the Powerstroke diesel V-8. The new cap, which is constructed of solid billet aluminum, is said to be an upgrade over the OEM plastic cap, which can crack or embrittle over time and which in turn can lead to contamination or loss of brake fluid. The Sinister unit's added hand grips enable easy screw-on and screw-off, and the cap is anodized in Sinister Blue with a laser-etched logo to give the engine bay a sharper look. 916-772-9253 www.sinisterdiesel.com PN SD-MCC-FORD-99
GForce Engineering Axle Line Upgrades G-Force Engineering has announced revisions to its product lineup, including significant upgrades to its flagship Outlaw performance half-shaft axle (pictured) and the introduction of a new axle line, the Renegade. Tho Outlaw CV half-shafts, said to feature the industry’s largest diameter and strongest axle bars with complete CNC-machined, one-piece billet inner and outer stubs, will be upgraded for 2019 with polished CVs inside and out. The polishing is said to significantly reduce friction and heat buildup and to improve the CVs' wear characteristics. The Outlaw will also receive an internal alloy upgrade for increased strength, and ARP fasteners for added strength. The new Renegade will replace the 850HP (L2) axle in the company's product line, with a price point lower than the Outlaw's. Both axles are available in a variety of street-performance applications. 316-260-8433 www.gforce1320.com PN varies by application
Smittybilt Modular Bumper for 2017-Present Wrangler JK/JL Smittybilt has released its new Stryker Modular Bumper for the 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK and 2018-and-later Wrangler JL. The new bumper is deep-draw press-formed from 3mm cold-rolled steel, a process that is said to result in increased strength and durability while offering a significant weight savings over standard steel and traditional welding. A bolt-on inner winch plate (when fitted with a winch up to 12,000-lbs capacity), integrated lift points and 7/8-inch D-ring mounts can facilitate off-road recoveries. A heavy-duty reinforced skidplate with added lower mounting support provides additional protection for the undercarriage. The solid overrider can accommodate a single-row LED lightbar and is removable when not in use. Stryker Side Wings offer more front and side protection while providing mounts for additional auxiliary lighting. 888-717-5797 www.smittybilt.com PN 76730 (center section), 76731 (side wings)

New Products From Members of the SEMA Data Co-op

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 09:08

By Douglas McColloch

The SEMA Data Co-op is “data central” for hundreds of specialty parts brands, representing millions of part numbers, and tens of millions of vehicle applications. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data repository, complete with a comprehensive set of online data management tools.

The product releases below are from SEMA members who are also part of the SDC at the the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

Holley NOS Dry Nitrous Plates Holley has released new NOS Dry Nitrous Plates for its LS Hi-Ram EFI intake manifolds. Said to be the fastest and easiest way to upgrade to a dry-nitrous system, the plates bolt up between the top plate and bottom baseplate on two-piece Hi-Ram LS manifolds in a one-piece configuration. Specially designed .103-inch passages machined into the billet 6061-T6 aluminum plate spray fuel through eight .040-inch openings into the center of each intake runner for optimal nitrous distribution and maximum power output. The plates come complete with jetting for 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 additional horsepower, but are said to be able to handle upwards of 1,000 horsepower. Available in black-anodized or clear designs, the kits include the plate itself, jet holders, an application-specific gasket, and all hardware needed for installation. 270-782-2900 www.holley.com PN 12535BNOS
Roush Performance 2018-19 Mustang/F-150 5.0L Supercharger Rush Performance has received CARB E.O. numbers for its new TVS R2650 Phase 1 Supercharger Kit for the 2018-19 Ford Mustang and F-150 pickup. The complete kits, which are said to be a direct bolt-on, boost power levels on the Mustang 5.0L V-8 to 700 horsepower and 610 lbs-ft of torque; power output for the F-150’s 5.0L is said to be improved to 650 horsepower and 610 lbs-ft. Developed in partnership with Ford Performance, the new supercharger combines a new, larger 2.65-liter Roots-type positive-displacement blower with a custom aluminum intercooler and heat exchanger; an additional rotor helix for greater efficiency and power delivery; and an included high-performance engine calibration tune. The supercharger comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile limited powertrain warranty when installed at a Ford dealership or by an ASE-certified technician. 800-597-6874 www.roushperformance.com PN 422090
Sinister Diesel 1999-2016 Powerstroke Master Cylinder Cap Sinister Diesel Manufacturing has released a new Master Cylinder Cap for 1999-2016 Ford Super Duty trucks equipped with the Powerstroke diesel V-8. The new cap, which is constructed of solid billet aluminum, is said to be an upgrade over the OEM plastic cap, which can crack or embrittle over time and which in turn can lead to contamination or loss of brake fluid. The Sinister unit's added hand grips enable easy screw-on and screw-off, and the cap is anodized in Sinister Blue with a laser-etched logo to give the engine bay a sharper look. 916-772-9253 www.sinisterdiesel.com PN SD-MCC-FORD-99
GForce Engineering Axle Line Upgrades G-Force Engineering has announced revisions to its product lineup, including significant upgrades to its flagship Outlaw performance half-shaft axle (pictured) and the introduction of a new axle line, the Renegade. Tho Outlaw CV half-shafts, said to feature the industry’s largest diameter and strongest axle bars with complete CNC-machined, one-piece billet inner and outer stubs, will be upgraded for 2019 with polished CVs inside and out. The polishing is said to significantly reduce friction and heat buildup and to improve the CVs' wear characteristics. The Outlaw will also receive an internal alloy upgrade for increased strength, and ARP fasteners for added strength. The new Renegade will replace the 850HP (L2) axle in the company's product line, with a price point lower than the Outlaw's. Both axles are available in a variety of street-performance applications. 316-260-8433 www.gforce1320.com PN varies by application
Smittybilt Modular Bumper for 2017-Present Wrangler JK/JL Smittybilt has released its new Stryker Modular Bumper for the 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK and 2018-and-later Wrangler JL. The new bumper is deep-draw press-formed from 3mm cold-rolled steel, a process that is said to result in increased strength and durability while offering a significant weight savings over standard steel and traditional welding. A bolt-on inner winch plate (when fitted with a winch up to 12,000-lbs capacity), integrated lift points and 7/8-inch D-ring mounts can facilitate off-road recoveries. A heavy-duty reinforced skidplate with added lower mounting support provides additional protection for the undercarriage. The solid overrider can accommodate a single-row LED lightbar and is removable when not in use. Stryker Side Wings offer more front and side protection while providing mounts for additional auxiliary lighting. 888-717-5797 www.smittybilt.com PN 76730 (center section), 76731 (side wings)

Exhibitor Summit: Your Guide to Success at the SEMA Show

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 08:56

By SEMA Editors

The annual SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit is designed to provide guidance to all exhibitors preparing for the 2019 SEMA Show.

The annual SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, taking place Monday–Wednesday, June 17–19, in Las Vegas, is designed to provide guidance to all exhibitors preparing for the 2019 SEMA Show. Summit attendees work with Show experts, including SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso, to enhance their Show investment through in-depth planning and taking advantage of the Show’s existing value-added programs.

Beneficial to all attendees regardless of trade-show experience, the Summit’s sessions will inform exhibitors how to utilize programs that minimize costs on booth services, (such as shipping and electrical); work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize their ROI; take advantage of SEMA value-added programs; explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships; and highlight proven strategies for attracting buyers and increasing business at the Show.

Cost for the event is intentionally low, with hotels, meals and workshops covered by SEMA. The only expense that attendees will incur is transportation to and from the event.

To register and for more information, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor-summit. To learn more about the 2019 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

The 2019 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas.

Exhibitor Summit: Your Guide to Success at the SEMA Show

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 08:56

By SEMA Editors

The annual SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit is designed to provide guidance to all exhibitors preparing for the 2019 SEMA Show.

The annual SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, taking place Monday–Wednesday, June 17–19, in Las Vegas, is designed to provide guidance to all exhibitors preparing for the 2019 SEMA Show. Summit attendees work with Show experts, including SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso, to enhance their Show investment through in-depth planning and taking advantage of the Show’s existing value-added programs.

Beneficial to all attendees regardless of trade-show experience, the Summit’s sessions will inform exhibitors how to utilize programs that minimize costs on booth services, (such as shipping and electrical); work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize their ROI; take advantage of SEMA value-added programs; explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships; and highlight proven strategies for attracting buyers and increasing business at the Show.

Cost for the event is intentionally low, with hotels, meals and workshops covered by SEMA. The only expense that attendees will incur is transportation to and from the event.

To register and for more information, visit www.SEMAShow.com/exhibitor-summit. To learn more about the 2019 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

The 2019 SEMA Show takes place Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas.

Last Call to RSVP for Tomorrow’s SBN Meetup at the Keystone BIG Show

Thu, 03/07/2019 - 08:44

By SEMA Editors

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is hosting an inaugural meetup at the Keystone BIG Show being held at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center. The event will be held March 8, from 3:00 p.m. CST–4:00 p.m. CST, in Grapevine, Texas.

All SBN members and those interested in learning about opportunities to support the advancement of women in the automotive industry are encouraged to attend. SBN leadership will be present to discuss the Network’s initiatives, volunteer opportunities and additional ways to get more involved.

SBN Members who are not attending the Keystone BIG Show are welcome to attend the meetup and also attend the BIG Show’s opening night keynote speaker and reception. RSVPs are required for all SBN members that are non-Show attendees.

If you live in the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area and are a SBN member or you’re a registered Keystone Big Show attendee, stop by and enjoy an evening of light refreshments with fellow SBN colleagues. We look forward to seeing you there!

Tickets are available here.

For more information, contact SEMA Director of Networks, Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org or 909-978-6691.