Sun, 11/01/2020 - 16:34

SEMA News—November 2020

SEMA Business Resource Guide

Business Guide

As a trade association, SEMA’s goal is to help aftermarket businesses of all types and sizes succeed and prosper. The following pages contain the names and brief contact information consistent with privacy considerations for SEMA-member companies as of August 20, 2020. This “SEMA Business Resource Guide” contains listings and company descriptions for SEMA-member companies that provide services in our industry, such as agencies, consultants and manufacturers’ reps.

Accelerate Marketing Business Solutions
Oshawa, ON CANADA
905-914-7409
www.acceleratemarketingbusinesssolutions.ca
Charlotte G. O’Rourke
charlottegorourke@hotmail.com
Marketing, digital and social media, event specialist with a passion for the automotive aftermarket and motorcycle industry. Specialties include digital media, social media, marketing, advertising, building relationships, customer relationship management and satisfaction, event management, user experience, business development, creative strategy, account management, partnerships, sponsorships and sales.

Action Sports Marketing
River Ridge, LA
504-237-5072
Dave Ferrato
daveferratofsr@gmail.com
Consultant specializing in the motorsports and automotive performance markets.

Advertising Edge Inc.
Santee, CA
800-258-9774
www.advertisingedge.com
Donald Roe
don@prosubusa.com
Promotional products company with services that include custom race and pit crew uniform shirts, sublimation shirts, custom printed or embroidered T-shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, hats, custom collectible or logo merchandise, patches, pins and decals.

a Graphic Advantage!
Riverside, CA
951-786-4178
www.agraphicadvantage.com
Talis Baltgalvis
talis@agraphicadvantage.com
Advertising/marketing agency offering graphic design, writing of sales copy, printing, website design, photography and account planning for the automotive industry.

Applied Innovations LLC
Easley, SC
864-859-8127
Matt Lake
applied.innovationsllc@gmail.com
Advertising and marketing agency specializing in product development for light trucks and accessories.

Aragorn Advertising LLC
Highland, MI
248-889-4272
www.aragornadvertising.com

Michael Mulholland
michael@aragornadvertising.com
Advertising agency providing media relations, product photography, ad design, PR, branding, co-op program management, web design and integration, installation videos and tradeshow development.

A Six Marketing
Sioux City, IA
319-883-2266
www.asixmarketing.com
Binh Vuong
bvuong@asixmarketing.com
We specialize in vehicle wraps for marketing your business.

Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer
Chattanooga, TN
423-802-7398
www.hatcherfoundation.org
Jim Osborn
jim@hatcherfoundation.org
Marketing agency and a 501(c)(3) organization that raises monies and awareness through motorsports for children with cancer and their families.

Automotive Products Marketing
Visalia, CA
559-732-0839
Alvin Rocha
alvinapm@earthlink.net
National sales and marketing agency for racing and performance products.

Barolin & Spencer Inc.
Voorhees, NJ
856-424-7600
www.barolin-spencer.com
Susan Spencer
sspencer@barolin-spencer.com
Full-service automotive marketing agency providing marketing consultation, advertising, public relations, website, interactive, literature, packaging, merchandising, market research and brand development.

BFM Group
Lake St. Louis, MO
636-561-5600
www.bfmgroupinc.com
Megan Roberts
mroberts@bfmgroupinc.com
BFM creates and executes marketing programs for tire manufacturers, tire wholesalers, tire and service retail chains, tire dealers and direct consumers. By partnering up with our customers we become part of your team to help optimize your long-term sales and marketing goals. Our product lines consist of digital advertising, print marketing, video advertising, promotional products and apparel.

Big Tire Garage LLC
Spring Hill, TN
615-788-3371
Ian Johnson
bigtiregarage@gmail.com
Big Tire Garage (BTG) is a custom vehicle builder and marketing company that specializes in high-profile builds. BTG also provides the marketing exposure to maximize the impact of the build, including dedicated show tours, magazine photo shoots, online exposure and social-media integration.

Bill Moeller & Associates
West Hills, CA
818-516-4885
Bill Moeller
hwilliam1019@msn.com
Marketing, advertising and public relations agency, consultant and special services to the industry. Producer member of International Show Car Association (ISCA).

Blacktop Media Network
Orange, CA
949-584-5669
www.blacktopmedia.net
Tony Colombini
tonyc@blacktopmagazine.com
The Blacktop Media Network is a media/publishing company which provides creative design and strategic marketing to the automotive aftermarket. Our properties include Blacktop Branding, Blacktop Magazine and Blacktop Depot, a vintage auto/cycle memorabilia store.

Blue C Communications
Costa Mesa, CA
714-540-5700
www.bluecusa.com
Eric Morley
emorley@bluecusa.com
Automotive aftermarket advertising. Sales promotion and integrated marketing communications company.

Bower Motorsports Media
Mesa, AZ
714-394-1716
www.bowermedia.com
Charlene Bower
charlene@bowermedia.com
Bower Media writes PR, takes pictures, produces videos, builds websites, tracks race teams, promotes events, a leader in social media and is successful at executing events. We work for companies, event promoters and racers. We provide free calendar and RSS feed services. Parent company to Race Team Store, Shirt & Swag Club, Shirt & Bling Club, Bower Media Promo Gifts, Offroad Newswire and more.

Brake Performance
Chatsworth, CA
818-340-3899
Andrew Alex
aalex@socal.rr.com

Brent Riley & Associates
Yorba Linda, CA
714-686-4996
Brent Riley
mrblriley@aol.com
Aftermarket automotive consulting agency, specializing in marketing, public relations, product development and strategic planning. Executive management assistance in corporate development, operations and human resources.

Business Forms Etc.
Los Alamitos, CA
562-430-7664
John Cameron
businessformsetc@yahoo.com
Advertising/marketing agency providing print, packaging and promotions to companies in the automotive industry.

The Buzz Maker Public Relations
Massillon, OH
330-936-1331
www.thebuzzmaker.com
Tracy Teuscher, APR
tracy@thebuzzmaker.com
Award-winning public relations, consulting and branding firm that’s contributed to the success of more than 20 leading aftermarket brands including nonprofits. Founder is accredited in public relations, and an industry consultant and a national speaker.

Carmmunity Inc.
Minneapolis, MN
612-454-0684
www.carmmunity.io
Daniel Balto
dbalto@carmmunity.io
Carmmunity is driving the automotive community together using state-of-the-art software while building a massive social-media following.

CarShowSafari.com
Ventura, CA
973-342-6462
www.carshowsafari.com
Tomm Scalera
tomm@carshowsafari.com
Website providing the complete, comprehensive and up-to-date listings of car shows and motorsports events for car enthusiasts nationwide. Includes event listings for cars, motorcycles, boats, planes and motorsports of all kinds, as well as automotive-enthusiast news, editorial features and car club resources. CarShowSafari.com...the place for information on every car event—everywhere.

Carsino Resort & Spa LLC
Niwot, CO
720-899-2124
Brad Snedeker
snedeker.brad@gmail.com
Carsino Resort & Spa LLC is a merchandising/marketing firm with a focus on live entertainment settled in a brick-and-mortar facility. A Las Vegas location that allows gaming. A 25,000-sq.-ft. IMAX theater specially designed for all types of restorations. Additional 100,000 sq. ft. for gaming and hotel rooms.

Charge LLC
Indianapolis, IN
317-538-2610
www.chargegf.com
Ken Ungar
kungar@chargegf.com
We are a full-service sports and entertainment marketing agency specializing in the auto industry and motorsports.

Chrome Domz
Fond du Lac, WI
920-322-1642
www.chromedomzstore.com
Rich Johnson
rjohnson@chromedomz.com
We create, from start to finish, mirror-polished, embossed, stainless-steel wall decor featuring both mainstream and niche brands. Great for home or garage, but also for the expansion of business image and branding. Everything we make is custom-designed, hand-built, packaged and shipped at our Wisconsin facility.

Clarity Research LLC
Johnson City, TN
828-553-1828
www.clarityresearch.net
Mike Curtis
mcurtis@clarityresearch.net
Marketing research company specializing in event-based surveys, new-product development and customer satisfaction studies among consumers in the automotive and powersports industries.

Colf Creative Resources
Akron, NY
716-725-3385
www.colfcreative.com
S. Kellie Colf
kellie@colfcreative.com
Web design and maintenance; services ranging from hot rodding your existing presence to complete web builds, SEO, SEM, PR and advertising, sales and marketing consulting, complete project vehicle services, including consulting, coordination and building, events management and staffing. Exclusively serving the automotive aftermarket. We only speak car.

Communica Inc.
Troy, MI
248-686-4044
www.communica-usa.com
David Kanarowski
davidk@communica.world
Advertising and marketing agency specializing in automotive product branding and sales promotions.

Connexions Sports and Entertainment Inc.
San Marcos, CA
602-432-6474
www.connxns.com
Bob Walker
bwalker@connxns.com

CP Sales & Marketing
Reno, NV
714-276-5288
Carmen Price
carmen.price1@aol.com
Sales and marketing along with advertising sales into industry magazines.

Crown Connect
San Bernardino, CA
909-888-7531
www.crownconnect.com
Denny Shorett
denny@crownconnect.com
Advertising, marketing and commercial printing company, specializing in Mac- and PC-compatible electronic pre-press with design and layout capabilities, ads, corporate mail, catalogs, calendars, brochures, large format (banners, signs, etc.) and in-house mailing capabilities.

Cubic Inch Studios
Plain City, OH
740-816-4200
www.cubicinchstudios.com
Chris Baker
chris.baker@cubicinchstudios.com
With decades of experience in the automotive restoration and performance industries, Cubic Inch Studios is not your average agency. We are able to offer our clients an experience that other agencies just don’t have. We can talk your language and we understand the industry.

Dave Bowman Enterprises
Lutz, FL
813-948-6323
David Bowman
d.bow63@gmail.com
Advertising agency specializing in television production and motorsports marketing.

Dave Wolin Inc.
Bakersfield, CA
559-760-1143
www.davewolin.com
David Wolin
ceo@davewolin.com
Advertising, public relations, sales promotion, website development and marketing services to the high-performance and racing industries.

David Bellm
North Riverside, IL
708-466-2248
www.wheelwords.com
David Bellm
davidbellm@att.net
Expert writing services for automotive marketers, including press releases, catalogs, websites, brochures, ads, newsletters, articles and more.

DCi, an ARI Company
Urbandale, IA
515-276-0442
www.dcinet.com
Brad Karstens
brad.karstens@dcinet.com
DCi has set the standards in electronic cataloging for the SEMA market for 15 years, and powers CatalogRack.com, the industry’s largest online electronic catalog. DCi provides full-service electronic cataloging for manufacturers and every distribution channel, turnkey e-commerce websites with robust parts lookup, and enables its customers to be included in a large industry sales network.

Designs of All Kinds
Vancouver, WA
360-892-5597
www.designsofallkinds.com
Mike Hertz
mike@designsofallkinds.com
Designs of All Kinds also can handle trade-show signs and display systems, wall graphics, window or door vinyl lettering graphics and signs, retail signs or education signage as well.

Digital Throttle LLC
Incline Village, NV
949-713-0944
www.digitalthrottle.com
Bryan Robb
bryan.robb@digitalthrottle.com
Advertising firm and vertical online ad network providing online advertising through independent automotive and motorcycle websites targeting enthusiasts seeking to customize, restore, repair and race their vehicles.

Douglas USA Agency LLC
Columbus, MS
662-889-0919
www.douglasusa.com
Marion Kilarski
marion@douglasusa.com
Douglas USA specializes in raising the visibility of automotive components, electronics and technology, industrial services, professional practices, and the most complex intangible and tangible products and services.

DS Media LLC/DS Media Relations
Corona, CA
714-334-5799
www.dsmediarelations.com
Dan Sanchez
dan@dsmediarelations.com
A high-performance agency specializing in public relations, targeted online advertising and marketing, content marketing campaigns, social-media management, professional video, editorial services and consulting for the automotive industry.

D3PR
Bay Village, OH
216-299-2194
www.d3pr.net
Dan Davis
dand@d3pr.net
PR/marketing company that works in the tire, motorcycle and automotive industries.

EKKO Media Inc.
Corona, CA
951-340-2060
www.ekkomedia.com
Aaron DeWitt
adewitt@ekkomedia.com
Marketing and web-development agency specializing in e-commerce and digital marketing solutions.

The Elliott Group
Matthews, NC
704-882-0969
George Elliott
gelliott4500@gmail.com
Consultants for internet development, television, public relations, motorsports sponsorship management and hospitality programs. Mediation services for Alternative Dispute Resolution for business issues in the related fields to our SEMA industry.

EMK Marketing
Yorba Linda, CA
714-692-1999
www.emkmarketing.com
Ellen McKoy
emkmarketing@att.net
Agency focused on marketing, public relations and editorial solutions, specializing in press releases, feature articles, technical writing, special-event planning, and promotional and marketing campaigns.

Epic Marketing
La Verne, CA
909-596-2351
Jerry Cabrinha
jerry@epicmkt.com
Advertising and marketing support for Goodyear and other tire retailers nationally. Print and digital ad design and production, direct mail, marriage mail, signage and point-of-purchase materials.

Epoc Design Group
Rockwall, TX
214-592-5502
www.epocdesigngroup.com
Cope Kessler
cope@epocdesigngroup.com
We are a marketing and design firm. Services include creating marketing strategies for clients, print collateral design and printing, merchandise design and manufacturing, graphic design, photography/video, packaging design, etc.

Ernst Media
Tacoma, WA
458-206-6803
www.ernstmedia.co
Evan Ernst
evan@ernstmedia.co
An award-winning boutique digital marketing agency specializing in paid ads management, social-media marketing, SEO, and influencer marketing. Google Ads and Facebook Ads certified.

Exhibits On Time LLC
Mesa, AZ
480-248-2445
www.exposhoppe.com
Van Curry
van@exhibitsontime.com
The design, manufacture and installation of showrooms, lobbies and event displays.

Extend Group
Evansville, IN
855-306-8818
www.theextendgroup.com
Shawn Collins
shawn.collins@theextendgroup.com
Extend Performance is an online marketing expert geared toward triggering fast and effective results for our clients in the automotive and performance aftermarket industries. Extend Performance has a wealth of resources at its disposal to help you reach your business and marketing goals.

External Combustion
Birmingham, MI
248 705 4294
www.externalcombustion.net
Larry Erickson
lerickson32@gmail.com
Marketing focused on automotive enthusiasm, insight and people.

Family Customs
Valencia, CA
661-505-3902
www.familycustoms.net
Nick Lopez
nick@familycustoms.net
Award-winning designs, specializing in functional and automotive design. Multiple design segments, design for imports, off-road and American muscle scenes. Consistent growth strategies. Committed to expanding reach and increasing visibility; marketing specialists experienced in grassroots marketing for your business.

Feyer Marketing
Lansing, MI
517-618-1755
www.feyermarketing.com
Ryan Feyer
ryan@feyermarketing.com
Specializing in digital marketing that helps automotive aftermarket brands create consumer demand.

Gasser Wars Magazine Ltd.
Snohomish, WA
425-356-7791
www.gasserwarsmagazine.com
Philip Morris
afuelfiat@aol.com
Marketing agency specializing in commercial printing, design and publishers and editors of Gasser Wars Magazine Ltd.

Gearhead Web
Buford, GA
678-929-7257
gearheadweb.com
Ethan Smith
ethan.smith@gearheadweb.com
The MFC Agency is a full-service creative marketing agency that focuses on producing results for fired-up, passionate and creatively fueled brands in the music, food and car industries. MFC was founded by lifelong musician, chicken-wing fanatic and gearhead, Ethan Smith.

Good Communications Inc.
West Point, CA
209-293-2110
www.goodcomms.com
Dave Wallace
davew@goodcomms.com
Advertising agency, public relations firm and publishing company founded by Dave Wallace Jr. Editorial and photographic bylines dating from 1964–present.

Gridlife LLC
Chicago, IL
616-828-8158
www.grid.life
Chris Stewart
chris@grid.life
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports event platform with the specific goal of amplifying automotive enthusiasm through experiences that bring the car-curious closer to motorsports. We produce racing events, festivals, digital experiences and content.

Gunpowder Inc.
Delafield, WI
414-698-7132
www.gunpowderinc.com
Ryan Chuckel
ryanc@gunpowderinc.com
Gunpowder is a marketing communications team liberated from the confines of a traditional agency. We are agile by design value—driven and focused on automotive performance brands. With our entrepreneurial approach and blue-collar work ethic. Gunpowder ignites action for the brands we represent professionally and use personally.

Handshake Marketing
Santa Paula, CA
805-218-4961
Larry Brogdin
brogdins@gmail.com
Handshakers is a marketing resource that uses both modern and classic techniques to train and empower employees to attract, develop and retain customers. From basic customer services training, ethics and security to advanced trade-show marketing, techniques are available as needed or as an ongoing educational program resource.

Hedges & Company
Hudson, OH
234-380-1650
www.hedgescompany.com
Jon Hedges
jon@hedgescompany.com
A full-service digital marketing agency serving the automotive aftermarket, motorsports and powersports industries. Internet marketing services include SEO and paid search, market research, e-mail marketing, enthusiast car and truck mailing lists and vehicle registration data. Google Partner agency and ChannelAdvisor agency partner. Contact us for a free evaluation of your current online marketing.

Holeshot Brandworks
Sherwood Park, AB CANADA
780-905-3793
www.holeshotbrandworks.com
Dennis Michael
dennis@holeshotbrandworks.com
Holeshot Brandworks is a visual communications company specializing in branding and identity services. Our focus is on helping automotive-industry-related companies achieve visual success through effective visual communications. We help new and existing companies build/rebuild their branding and marketing materials so it speaks to their target markets clearly.

Holland Communications Inc.
Northridge, CA
818-854-6136
www.holland-comm.com
Bill Holland
bill@holland-comm.com
Full-service advertising and public relations agency with 30-plus years industry experience. Complete in-house graphics, web development, TV/video and project shop, plus trade show and mobile display services.

IBP Media
Westlake Village, CA
805-370-8403
www.ibpmedia.com
Dan Weikel
dweikel@ibpmedia.com
IBP represents transportation brands in the land, sea and air. The firm also works in travel, home, fashion, energy, security, motorsports and gaming.

Icon Internet Media Inc.
Anaheim Hills, CA
714-695-0112
www.icon-media.com
Scott Johnson
scott@icon-media.com
Marketing agency specializing in vehicle photography and graphic design for the automotive industry.

IGNITION Marketing Group
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
909-758-1823
www.ignitionmg.com
Robert Chew
rob@ignitionmg.com
Boutique marketing agency located in Los Angeles, specializing in automotive. Services include creative services such as photography and videography as well as digital marketing and analysis.

imre
Los Angeles, CA
213-289-9190
www.imre.com
Breanna Buhr
breannab@imre.com
Public relations agency serving the automotive industry with media relations, event planning, press conferences and research, representing auto aftermarket companies and OEMs.

IMR Inc.
Naperville, IL
630-654-1079
www.automotiveresearch.com
Bill Thompson
bill.thompson@automotiveresearch.com
Marketing agency specializing in syndicated and custom market research for automotive accessories, product planning and parts.

In Focus Performance Marketing
Lafayette, IN
765-250-5677
www.infocuspm.com
Jonathan Light
jon@infocuspm.com
Building brands, and increasing sales for clients in the automotive and powersports industries since 2001. Services include strategic marketing plans, digital marketing, content development, social media, media relations and PR, advertising, website development, copy writing, graphic design, and more. Strong understanding of the performance, accessory, racing, replacement-part and OEM markets.

Inplace Marketing
Tampa, FL
813-251-9455
www.inplacemarketing.com
Brittany Winebrenner
Brittany@ipgms.com
InPlace Marketing is a full-service marketing and video production company. InPlace Marketing produces “Guys Off Road,” a web series featuring automotive aftermarket products for Jeeps, trucks, ATVs and UTVS.

Jackson Marketing, Motorsports & Events
Simpsonville, SC
864-272-3000
www.jacksonmg.com
Todd Steen
todd.steen@jacksonmg.com
Fully integrated marketing and event agency that has helped BMW, Michelin, BFGoodrich Tires, NAPA Filters, AEM Performance and Sage Automotive Interiors create and tell their stories to customers, influencers and consumers.

Jacquot Media Services
Dexter, MI
734-775-3455
www.linkedin.com/in/jacquotmediaservices
Tanya Jacquot
tanya.jacquot@gmail.com
Advertising/marketing agency providing public and media relations consulting, including press-release writing and distribution, copy writing, editing, video script writing, catalog and brochure text and product-placement services.

Jajo
St. Louis, MO
314-328-7688
www.jajo.agency
Steve Randa
sranda@jajo.agency
Jajo is an integrated marketing solutions agency in St. Louis, Missouri. Serving a diverse industry roster, we provide exceptional brand strategy and digital-marketing execution for clientele who desire to be the irreplaceable brand for their customers. We build believers.

Jo Coddington
Thousand Palms, CA
714-222-6982
www.jocoddington.com
Jo Coddington
jo@jocoddington.com
Spokesperson, product testing, product placement, consulting and marketing aftermarket products and services, brand awareness, development of motorsports and aftermarket applications.

John Toca LLC
Chicago, IL
312-952-6426
www.johntoca.com
John Toca
john@johntoca.com
Toca Series works on a global level with a variety of individuals and organizations, ranging from local tuners to some of the world’s largest auto manufacturers. We design, we create, we innovate.

J.R. Thompson Co.
Farmington Hills, MI
248-553-4566
www.jrthompson.com
Christine Soper-neill
cneill@thejrtagency.com
Marketing communications firm specializing in motorsports and automotive aftermarket marketing. Services include marketing-program development, website construction, sales promotion, event marketing, public relations, graphic design and creative services.

Kahn Media Inc.
Moorpark, CA
818-881-5246
www.kahnmedia.com
Dan Kahn
dan@kahnmedia.com
Public relations and marketing agency specializing in media relations, digital media production and social-media marketing for the automotive aftermarket.

Karrot
Chicago, IL
312-809-6121
www.karrotrewards.com
Ernest Naylor
enaylor@karrotrewards.com
Karrot helps companies drive engagement, loyalty and relevance to their key audiences. These audiences can be their employees, channel partners and consumers. We help companies successfully motivate behavior and drive relationships that flourish. Our insights help build and inspire programs that engage and drive an audience to a desired behavior and impact bottom-line success.

Keplinger Designs Inc.
Marietta, GA
770-319-6811
www.keplingerdesigns.com
Keith Keplinger
keith@keplingerdesigns.com
Advertising agency.

Kermish-Geylin Public Relations Inc.
Chatham, MA
508-945-2400
www.kgpr.com
Michael Geylin
mgeylin@kgpr.com
Public-relations firm specializing in automotive OEM, supplier and motorsports categories.

Kies Motorsports LLC
Hammonton, NJ
888-570-8802
www.kiesmotorsports.com
Bryan Kiefer
Bryan@kiesmotorsports.com
We’re a BMW specialty company that provides the best in BMW retrofits, performance upgrades and retrofits. We have three main areas of focus, which include media, parts sales and professional installations.

Knott Design
San Diego, CA
858-414-4821
www.knottdesign.com
Jim Knott
jim@knottdesign.com
Marketing and advertising solutions for the motorsports industry. We specialize in business cards, flyers, postcards, tradeshow products, booth signage, rigid foam-board signs, banners, banner stands, tear-off cards and more. If you are a small business with a limited budget, we can help. Check out our website for more information.

Kolab Agency
Newport Beach, CA
951-536-1334
www.letskolab.com
Bob Apodaca
bob@letskolab.com
We consider ourselves a boutique marketing agency, that handles all aspects of our clients’ needs from print/web design to on-site activation and social media.

Kroll Direct Marketing Inc.
Wellington, FL
609-275-2900
www.krolldirect.com
Leland Kroll
lee@krolldirect.com
Direct marketing agency that specializes in the automotive owner and enthusiast marketplace. We have a VIN database with more than 156 million owners offering e-mail addresses and phone numbers on a majority of the names. We can also generate ancillary revenue for you from our marketing of your customer database. Call us to find out how we can monetize your data.

Kwan International Marketing & Media
Las Vegas, NV
702-292-5112
www.kwaninternational.com
Christina Kwan
christina@kwaninternational.com
Kwan International, located at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, is a cutting-edge marketing company that creates and implements branding and media strategies that propel a company, its brand and products to a new level of awareness and exposure. A member of the press and writing for outlets such as MSNBC and Yahoo, Kwan International effectively engages the media through compelling storytelling.

Kyle Chura Associates
Milford, MI
248-821-0468
www.kcapr.com
Kyle Chura
kyle@kcapr.com
Advertising and marketing agency, specializing in motorsports press relations, graphic design, marketing and special events.

Lang Marketing Resources Inc.
Fort Wayne, IN
260-399-1699
www.langmarketing.com
James Lang
jim.lang@langmarketing.com
Marketing, management consulting and research.

LeachCo LLC
Dayton, TN
423-254-5500
www.aftermarketmedia.com
David Leach
dleach@leachcollc.com
Advertising/marketing agency representing aftermarket companies to the media and general public.

Licensing Matters Global
Los Angeles, CA
479-586-3951
www.licensingmattersglobal.com
Mark Edridge
mark.edridge@licensingmattersglobal.com
Licensing agent representing brands in the automotive arena. Seeking partnerships with SEMA members interested in leveraging the value in our clients’ brands.

Lil’ Fat Monkey Enterprises LLC
Newport Beach, CA
609-462-9427
Gregg Butler
g@thefatfellas.com
Advertising and marketing agency that designs educational and entertainment products for the automotive enthusiast, hot rodder and fabricator for print, TV and the web.

Lin’s Marketing and Design
Conway, AR
501-336-4922
www.linsdesignstudio.com
Bryan Lin
bryan@linsdesignstudio.com
Marketing: photography, graphic design, renderings, build management and catalog design.

List Media Inc.
Chagrin Falls, OH
330-995-0864
www.admail.net
Robert Hicks
robert@dm1.com
List Media a database-technology company responsible for the creation and development of Admail.net, Adsocial and web.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 16:34

SEMA News—November 2020

SEMA Business Resource Guide

Business Guide

As a trade association, SEMA’s goal is to help aftermarket businesses of all types and sizes succeed and prosper. The following pages contain the names and brief contact information consistent with privacy considerations for SEMA-member companies as of August 20, 2020. This “SEMA Business Resource Guide” contains listings and company descriptions for SEMA-member companies that provide services in our industry, such as agencies, consultants and manufacturers’ reps.

Accelerate Marketing Business Solutions
Oshawa, ON CANADA
905-914-7409
www.acceleratemarketingbusinesssolutions.ca
Charlotte G. O’Rourke
charlottegorourke@hotmail.com
Marketing, digital and social media, event specialist with a passion for the automotive aftermarket and motorcycle industry. Specialties include digital media, social media, marketing, advertising, building relationships, customer relationship management and satisfaction, event management, user experience, business development, creative strategy, account management, partnerships, sponsorships and sales.

Action Sports Marketing
River Ridge, LA
504-237-5072
Dave Ferrato
daveferratofsr@gmail.com
Consultant specializing in the motorsports and automotive performance markets.

Advertising Edge Inc.
Santee, CA
800-258-9774
www.advertisingedge.com
Donald Roe
don@prosubusa.com
Promotional products company with services that include custom race and pit crew uniform shirts, sublimation shirts, custom printed or embroidered T-shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, hats, custom collectible or logo merchandise, patches, pins and decals.

a Graphic Advantage!
Riverside, CA
951-786-4178
www.agraphicadvantage.com
Talis Baltgalvis
talis@agraphicadvantage.com
Advertising/marketing agency offering graphic design, writing of sales copy, printing, website design, photography and account planning for the automotive industry.

Applied Innovations LLC
Easley, SC
864-859-8127
Matt Lake
applied.innovationsllc@gmail.com
Advertising and marketing agency specializing in product development for light trucks and accessories.

Aragorn Advertising LLC
Highland, MI
248-889-4272
www.aragornadvertising.com

Michael Mulholland
michael@aragornadvertising.com
Advertising agency providing media relations, product photography, ad design, PR, branding, co-op program management, web design and integration, installation videos and tradeshow development.

A Six Marketing
Sioux City, IA
319-883-2266
www.asixmarketing.com
Binh Vuong
bvuong@asixmarketing.com
We specialize in vehicle wraps for marketing your business.

Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer
Chattanooga, TN
423-802-7398
www.hatcherfoundation.org
Jim Osborn
jim@hatcherfoundation.org
Marketing agency and a 501(c)(3) organization that raises monies and awareness through motorsports for children with cancer and their families.

Automotive Products Marketing
Visalia, CA
559-732-0839
Alvin Rocha
alvinapm@earthlink.net
National sales and marketing agency for racing and performance products.

Barolin & Spencer Inc.
Voorhees, NJ
856-424-7600
www.barolin-spencer.com
Susan Spencer
sspencer@barolin-spencer.com
Full-service automotive marketing agency providing marketing consultation, advertising, public relations, website, interactive, literature, packaging, merchandising, market research and brand development.

BFM Group
Lake St. Louis, MO
636-561-5600
www.bfmgroupinc.com
Megan Roberts
mroberts@bfmgroupinc.com
BFM creates and executes marketing programs for tire manufacturers, tire wholesalers, tire and service retail chains, tire dealers and direct consumers. By partnering up with our customers we become part of your team to help optimize your long-term sales and marketing goals. Our product lines consist of digital advertising, print marketing, video advertising, promotional products and apparel.

Big Tire Garage LLC
Spring Hill, TN
615-788-3371
Ian Johnson
bigtiregarage@gmail.com
Big Tire Garage (BTG) is a custom vehicle builder and marketing company that specializes in high-profile builds. BTG also provides the marketing exposure to maximize the impact of the build, including dedicated show tours, magazine photo shoots, online exposure and social-media integration.

Bill Moeller & Associates
West Hills, CA
818-516-4885
Bill Moeller
hwilliam1019@msn.com
Marketing, advertising and public relations agency, consultant and special services to the industry. Producer member of International Show Car Association (ISCA).

Blacktop Media Network
Orange, CA
949-584-5669
www.blacktopmedia.net
Tony Colombini
tonyc@blacktopmagazine.com
The Blacktop Media Network is a media/publishing company which provides creative design and strategic marketing to the automotive aftermarket. Our properties include Blacktop Branding, Blacktop Magazine and Blacktop Depot, a vintage auto/cycle memorabilia store.

Blue C Communications
Costa Mesa, CA
714-540-5700
www.bluecusa.com
Eric Morley
emorley@bluecusa.com
Automotive aftermarket advertising. Sales promotion and integrated marketing communications company.

Bower Motorsports Media
Mesa, AZ
714-394-1716
www.bowermedia.com
Charlene Bower
charlene@bowermedia.com
Bower Media writes PR, takes pictures, produces videos, builds websites, tracks race teams, promotes events, a leader in social media and is successful at executing events. We work for companies, event promoters and racers. We provide free calendar and RSS feed services. Parent company to Race Team Store, Shirt & Swag Club, Shirt & Bling Club, Bower Media Promo Gifts, Offroad Newswire and more.

Brake Performance
Chatsworth, CA
818-340-3899
Andrew Alex
aalex@socal.rr.com

Brent Riley & Associates
Yorba Linda, CA
714-686-4996
Brent Riley
mrblriley@aol.com
Aftermarket automotive consulting agency, specializing in marketing, public relations, product development and strategic planning. Executive management assistance in corporate development, operations and human resources.

Business Forms Etc.
Los Alamitos, CA
562-430-7664
John Cameron
businessformsetc@yahoo.com
Advertising/marketing agency providing print, packaging and promotions to companies in the automotive industry.

The Buzz Maker Public Relations
Massillon, OH
330-936-1331
www.thebuzzmaker.com
Tracy Teuscher, APR
tracy@thebuzzmaker.com
Award-winning public relations, consulting and branding firm that’s contributed to the success of more than 20 leading aftermarket brands including nonprofits. Founder is accredited in public relations, and an industry consultant and a national speaker.

Carmmunity Inc.
Minneapolis, MN
612-454-0684
www.carmmunity.io
Daniel Balto
dbalto@carmmunity.io
Carmmunity is driving the automotive community together using state-of-the-art software while building a massive social-media following.

CarShowSafari.com
Ventura, CA
973-342-6462
www.carshowsafari.com
Tomm Scalera
tomm@carshowsafari.com
Website providing the complete, comprehensive and up-to-date listings of car shows and motorsports events for car enthusiasts nationwide. Includes event listings for cars, motorcycles, boats, planes and motorsports of all kinds, as well as automotive-enthusiast news, editorial features and car club resources. CarShowSafari.com...the place for information on every car event—everywhere.

Carsino Resort & Spa LLC
Niwot, CO
720-899-2124
Brad Snedeker
snedeker.brad@gmail.com
Carsino Resort & Spa LLC is a merchandising/marketing firm with a focus on live entertainment settled in a brick-and-mortar facility. A Las Vegas location that allows gaming. A 25,000-sq.-ft. IMAX theater specially designed for all types of restorations. Additional 100,000 sq. ft. for gaming and hotel rooms.

Charge LLC
Indianapolis, IN
317-538-2610
www.chargegf.com
Ken Ungar
kungar@chargegf.com
We are a full-service sports and entertainment marketing agency specializing in the auto industry and motorsports.

Chrome Domz
Fond du Lac, WI
920-322-1642
www.chromedomzstore.com
Rich Johnson
rjohnson@chromedomz.com
We create, from start to finish, mirror-polished, embossed, stainless-steel wall decor featuring both mainstream and niche brands. Great for home or garage, but also for the expansion of business image and branding. Everything we make is custom-designed, hand-built, packaged and shipped at our Wisconsin facility.

Clarity Research LLC
Johnson City, TN
828-553-1828
www.clarityresearch.net
Mike Curtis
mcurtis@clarityresearch.net
Marketing research company specializing in event-based surveys, new-product development and customer satisfaction studies among consumers in the automotive and powersports industries.

Colf Creative Resources
Akron, NY
716-725-3385
www.colfcreative.com
S. Kellie Colf
kellie@colfcreative.com
Web design and maintenance; services ranging from hot rodding your existing presence to complete web builds, SEO, SEM, PR and advertising, sales and marketing consulting, complete project vehicle services, including consulting, coordination and building, events management and staffing. Exclusively serving the automotive aftermarket. We only speak car.

Communica Inc.
Troy, MI
248-686-4044
www.communica-usa.com
David Kanarowski
davidk@communica.world
Advertising and marketing agency specializing in automotive product branding and sales promotions.

Connexions Sports and Entertainment Inc.
San Marcos, CA
602-432-6474
www.connxns.com
Bob Walker
bwalker@connxns.com

CP Sales & Marketing
Reno, NV
714-276-5288
Carmen Price
carmen.price1@aol.com
Sales and marketing along with advertising sales into industry magazines.

Crown Connect
San Bernardino, CA
909-888-7531
www.crownconnect.com
Denny Shorett
denny@crownconnect.com
Advertising, marketing and commercial printing company, specializing in Mac- and PC-compatible electronic pre-press with design and layout capabilities, ads, corporate mail, catalogs, calendars, brochures, large format (banners, signs, etc.) and in-house mailing capabilities.

Cubic Inch Studios
Plain City, OH
740-816-4200
www.cubicinchstudios.com
Chris Baker
chris.baker@cubicinchstudios.com
With decades of experience in the automotive restoration and performance industries, Cubic Inch Studios is not your average agency. We are able to offer our clients an experience that other agencies just don’t have. We can talk your language and we understand the industry.

Dave Bowman Enterprises
Lutz, FL
813-948-6323
David Bowman
d.bow63@gmail.com
Advertising agency specializing in television production and motorsports marketing.

Dave Wolin Inc.
Bakersfield, CA
559-760-1143
www.davewolin.com
David Wolin
ceo@davewolin.com
Advertising, public relations, sales promotion, website development and marketing services to the high-performance and racing industries.

David Bellm
North Riverside, IL
708-466-2248
www.wheelwords.com
David Bellm
davidbellm@att.net
Expert writing services for automotive marketers, including press releases, catalogs, websites, brochures, ads, newsletters, articles and more.

DCi, an ARI Company
Urbandale, IA
515-276-0442
www.dcinet.com
Brad Karstens
brad.karstens@dcinet.com
DCi has set the standards in electronic cataloging for the SEMA market for 15 years, and powers CatalogRack.com, the industry’s largest online electronic catalog. DCi provides full-service electronic cataloging for manufacturers and every distribution channel, turnkey e-commerce websites with robust parts lookup, and enables its customers to be included in a large industry sales network.

Designs of All Kinds
Vancouver, WA
360-892-5597
www.designsofallkinds.com
Mike Hertz
mike@designsofallkinds.com
Designs of All Kinds also can handle trade-show signs and display systems, wall graphics, window or door vinyl lettering graphics and signs, retail signs or education signage as well.

Digital Throttle LLC
Incline Village, NV
949-713-0944
www.digitalthrottle.com
Bryan Robb
bryan.robb@digitalthrottle.com
Advertising firm and vertical online ad network providing online advertising through independent automotive and motorcycle websites targeting enthusiasts seeking to customize, restore, repair and race their vehicles.

Douglas USA Agency LLC
Columbus, MS
662-889-0919
www.douglasusa.com
Marion Kilarski
marion@douglasusa.com
Douglas USA specializes in raising the visibility of automotive components, electronics and technology, industrial services, professional practices, and the most complex intangible and tangible products and services.

DS Media LLC/DS Media Relations
Corona, CA
714-334-5799
www.dsmediarelations.com
Dan Sanchez
dan@dsmediarelations.com
A high-performance agency specializing in public relations, targeted online advertising and marketing, content marketing campaigns, social-media management, professional video, editorial services and consulting for the automotive industry.

D3PR
Bay Village, OH
216-299-2194
www.d3pr.net
Dan Davis
dand@d3pr.net
PR/marketing company that works in the tire, motorcycle and automotive industries.

EKKO Media Inc.
Corona, CA
951-340-2060
www.ekkomedia.com
Aaron DeWitt
adewitt@ekkomedia.com
Marketing and web-development agency specializing in e-commerce and digital marketing solutions.

The Elliott Group
Matthews, NC
704-882-0969
George Elliott
gelliott4500@gmail.com
Consultants for internet development, television, public relations, motorsports sponsorship management and hospitality programs. Mediation services for Alternative Dispute Resolution for business issues in the related fields to our SEMA industry.

EMK Marketing
Yorba Linda, CA
714-692-1999
www.emkmarketing.com
Ellen McKoy
emkmarketing@att.net
Agency focused on marketing, public relations and editorial solutions, specializing in press releases, feature articles, technical writing, special-event planning, and promotional and marketing campaigns.

Epic Marketing
La Verne, CA
909-596-2351
Jerry Cabrinha
jerry@epicmkt.com
Advertising and marketing support for Goodyear and other tire retailers nationally. Print and digital ad design and production, direct mail, marriage mail, signage and point-of-purchase materials.

Epoc Design Group
Rockwall, TX
214-592-5502
www.epocdesigngroup.com
Cope Kessler
cope@epocdesigngroup.com
We are a marketing and design firm. Services include creating marketing strategies for clients, print collateral design and printing, merchandise design and manufacturing, graphic design, photography/video, packaging design, etc.

Ernst Media
Tacoma, WA
458-206-6803
www.ernstmedia.co
Evan Ernst
evan@ernstmedia.co
An award-winning boutique digital marketing agency specializing in paid ads management, social-media marketing, SEO, and influencer marketing. Google Ads and Facebook Ads certified.

Exhibits On Time LLC
Mesa, AZ
480-248-2445
www.exposhoppe.com
Van Curry
van@exhibitsontime.com
The design, manufacture and installation of showrooms, lobbies and event displays.

Extend Group
Evansville, IN
855-306-8818
www.theextendgroup.com
Shawn Collins
shawn.collins@theextendgroup.com
Extend Performance is an online marketing expert geared toward triggering fast and effective results for our clients in the automotive and performance aftermarket industries. Extend Performance has a wealth of resources at its disposal to help you reach your business and marketing goals.

External Combustion
Birmingham, MI
248 705 4294
www.externalcombustion.net
Larry Erickson
lerickson32@gmail.com
Marketing focused on automotive enthusiasm, insight and people.

Family Customs
Valencia, CA
661-505-3902
www.familycustoms.net
Nick Lopez
nick@familycustoms.net
Award-winning designs, specializing in functional and automotive design. Multiple design segments, design for imports, off-road and American muscle scenes. Consistent growth strategies. Committed to expanding reach and increasing visibility; marketing specialists experienced in grassroots marketing for your business.

Feyer Marketing
Lansing, MI
517-618-1755
www.feyermarketing.com
Ryan Feyer
ryan@feyermarketing.com
Specializing in digital marketing that helps automotive aftermarket brands create consumer demand.

Gasser Wars Magazine Ltd.
Snohomish, WA
425-356-7791
www.gasserwarsmagazine.com
Philip Morris
afuelfiat@aol.com
Marketing agency specializing in commercial printing, design and publishers and editors of Gasser Wars Magazine Ltd.

Gearhead Web
Buford, GA
678-929-7257
gearheadweb.com
Ethan Smith
ethan.smith@gearheadweb.com
The MFC Agency is a full-service creative marketing agency that focuses on producing results for fired-up, passionate and creatively fueled brands in the music, food and car industries. MFC was founded by lifelong musician, chicken-wing fanatic and gearhead, Ethan Smith.

Good Communications Inc.
West Point, CA
209-293-2110
www.goodcomms.com
Dave Wallace
davew@goodcomms.com
Advertising agency, public relations firm and publishing company founded by Dave Wallace Jr. Editorial and photographic bylines dating from 1964–present.

Gridlife LLC
Chicago, IL
616-828-8158
www.grid.life
Chris Stewart
chris@grid.life
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports event platform with the specific goal of amplifying automotive enthusiasm through experiences that bring the car-curious closer to motorsports. We produce racing events, festivals, digital experiences and content.

Gunpowder Inc.
Delafield, WI
414-698-7132
www.gunpowderinc.com
Ryan Chuckel
ryanc@gunpowderinc.com
Gunpowder is a marketing communications team liberated from the confines of a traditional agency. We are agile by design value—driven and focused on automotive performance brands. With our entrepreneurial approach and blue-collar work ethic. Gunpowder ignites action for the brands we represent professionally and use personally.

Handshake Marketing
Santa Paula, CA
805-218-4961
Larry Brogdin
brogdins@gmail.com
Handshakers is a marketing resource that uses both modern and classic techniques to train and empower employees to attract, develop and retain customers. From basic customer services training, ethics and security to advanced trade-show marketing, techniques are available as needed or as an ongoing educational program resource.

Hedges & Company
Hudson, OH
234-380-1650
www.hedgescompany.com
Jon Hedges
jon@hedgescompany.com
A full-service digital marketing agency serving the automotive aftermarket, motorsports and powersports industries. Internet marketing services include SEO and paid search, market research, e-mail marketing, enthusiast car and truck mailing lists and vehicle registration data. Google Partner agency and ChannelAdvisor agency partner. Contact us for a free evaluation of your current online marketing.

Holeshot Brandworks
Sherwood Park, AB CANADA
780-905-3793
www.holeshotbrandworks.com
Dennis Michael
dennis@holeshotbrandworks.com
Holeshot Brandworks is a visual communications company specializing in branding and identity services. Our focus is on helping automotive-industry-related companies achieve visual success through effective visual communications. We help new and existing companies build/rebuild their branding and marketing materials so it speaks to their target markets clearly.

Holland Communications Inc.
Northridge, CA
818-854-6136
www.holland-comm.com
Bill Holland
bill@holland-comm.com
Full-service advertising and public relations agency with 30-plus years industry experience. Complete in-house graphics, web development, TV/video and project shop, plus trade show and mobile display services.

IBP Media
Westlake Village, CA
805-370-8403
www.ibpmedia.com
Dan Weikel
dweikel@ibpmedia.com
IBP represents transportation brands in the land, sea and air. The firm also works in travel, home, fashion, energy, security, motorsports and gaming.

Icon Internet Media Inc.
Anaheim Hills, CA
714-695-0112
www.icon-media.com
Scott Johnson
scott@icon-media.com
Marketing agency specializing in vehicle photography and graphic design for the automotive industry.

IGNITION Marketing Group
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
909-758-1823
www.ignitionmg.com
Robert Chew
rob@ignitionmg.com
Boutique marketing agency located in Los Angeles, specializing in automotive. Services include creative services such as photography and videography as well as digital marketing and analysis.

imre
Los Angeles, CA
213-289-9190
www.imre.com
Breanna Buhr
breannab@imre.com
Public relations agency serving the automotive industry with media relations, event planning, press conferences and research, representing auto aftermarket companies and OEMs.

IMR Inc.
Naperville, IL
630-654-1079
www.automotiveresearch.com
Bill Thompson
bill.thompson@automotiveresearch.com
Marketing agency specializing in syndicated and custom market research for automotive accessories, product planning and parts.

In Focus Performance Marketing
Lafayette, IN
765-250-5677
www.infocuspm.com
Jonathan Light
jon@infocuspm.com
Building brands, and increasing sales for clients in the automotive and powersports industries since 2001. Services include strategic marketing plans, digital marketing, content development, social media, media relations and PR, advertising, website development, copy writing, graphic design, and more. Strong understanding of the performance, accessory, racing, replacement-part and OEM markets.

Inplace Marketing
Tampa, FL
813-251-9455
www.inplacemarketing.com
Brittany Winebrenner
Brittany@ipgms.com
InPlace Marketing is a full-service marketing and video production company. InPlace Marketing produces “Guys Off Road,” a web series featuring automotive aftermarket products for Jeeps, trucks, ATVs and UTVS.

Jackson Marketing, Motorsports & Events
Simpsonville, SC
864-272-3000
www.jacksonmg.com
Todd Steen
todd.steen@jacksonmg.com
Fully integrated marketing and event agency that has helped BMW, Michelin, BFGoodrich Tires, NAPA Filters, AEM Performance and Sage Automotive Interiors create and tell their stories to customers, influencers and consumers.

Jacquot Media Services
Dexter, MI
734-775-3455
www.linkedin.com/in/jacquotmediaservices
Tanya Jacquot
tanya.jacquot@gmail.com
Advertising/marketing agency providing public and media relations consulting, including press-release writing and distribution, copy writing, editing, video script writing, catalog and brochure text and product-placement services.

Jajo
St. Louis, MO
314-328-7688
www.jajo.agency
Steve Randa
sranda@jajo.agency
Jajo is an integrated marketing solutions agency in St. Louis, Missouri. Serving a diverse industry roster, we provide exceptional brand strategy and digital-marketing execution for clientele who desire to be the irreplaceable brand for their customers. We build believers.

Jo Coddington
Thousand Palms, CA
714-222-6982
www.jocoddington.com
Jo Coddington
jo@jocoddington.com
Spokesperson, product testing, product placement, consulting and marketing aftermarket products and services, brand awareness, development of motorsports and aftermarket applications.

John Toca LLC
Chicago, IL
312-952-6426
www.johntoca.com
John Toca
john@johntoca.com
Toca Series works on a global level with a variety of individuals and organizations, ranging from local tuners to some of the world’s largest auto manufacturers. We design, we create, we innovate.

J.R. Thompson Co.
Farmington Hills, MI
248-553-4566
www.jrthompson.com
Christine Soper-neill
cneill@thejrtagency.com
Marketing communications firm specializing in motorsports and automotive aftermarket marketing. Services include marketing-program development, website construction, sales promotion, event marketing, public relations, graphic design and creative services.

Kahn Media Inc.
Moorpark, CA
818-881-5246
www.kahnmedia.com
Dan Kahn
dan@kahnmedia.com
Public relations and marketing agency specializing in media relations, digital media production and social-media marketing for the automotive aftermarket.

Karrot
Chicago, IL
312-809-6121
www.karrotrewards.com
Ernest Naylor
enaylor@karrotrewards.com
Karrot helps companies drive engagement, loyalty and relevance to their key audiences. These audiences can be their employees, channel partners and consumers. We help companies successfully motivate behavior and drive relationships that flourish. Our insights help build and inspire programs that engage and drive an audience to a desired behavior and impact bottom-line success.

Keplinger Designs Inc.
Marietta, GA
770-319-6811
www.keplingerdesigns.com
Keith Keplinger
keith@keplingerdesigns.com
Advertising agency.

Kermish-Geylin Public Relations Inc.
Chatham, MA
508-945-2400
www.kgpr.com
Michael Geylin
mgeylin@kgpr.com
Public-relations firm specializing in automotive OEM, supplier and motorsports categories.

Kies Motorsports LLC
Hammonton, NJ
888-570-8802
www.kiesmotorsports.com
Bryan Kiefer
Bryan@kiesmotorsports.com
We’re a BMW specialty company that provides the best in BMW retrofits, performance upgrades and retrofits. We have three main areas of focus, which include media, parts sales and professional installations.

Knott Design
San Diego, CA
858-414-4821
www.knottdesign.com
Jim Knott
jim@knottdesign.com
Marketing and advertising solutions for the motorsports industry. We specialize in business cards, flyers, postcards, tradeshow products, booth signage, rigid foam-board signs, banners, banner stands, tear-off cards and more. If you are a small business with a limited budget, we can help. Check out our website for more information.

Kolab Agency
Newport Beach, CA
951-536-1334
www.letskolab.com
Bob Apodaca
bob@letskolab.com
We consider ourselves a boutique marketing agency, that handles all aspects of our clients’ needs from print/web design to on-site activation and social media.

Kroll Direct Marketing Inc.
Wellington, FL
609-275-2900
www.krolldirect.com
Leland Kroll
lee@krolldirect.com
Direct marketing agency that specializes in the automotive owner and enthusiast marketplace. We have a VIN database with more than 156 million owners offering e-mail addresses and phone numbers on a majority of the names. We can also generate ancillary revenue for you from our marketing of your customer database. Call us to find out how we can monetize your data.

Kwan International Marketing & Media
Las Vegas, NV
702-292-5112
www.kwaninternational.com
Christina Kwan
christina@kwaninternational.com
Kwan International, located at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, is a cutting-edge marketing company that creates and implements branding and media strategies that propel a company, its brand and products to a new level of awareness and exposure. A member of the press and writing for outlets such as MSNBC and Yahoo, Kwan International effectively engages the media through compelling storytelling.

Kyle Chura Associates
Milford, MI
248-821-0468
www.kcapr.com
Kyle Chura
kyle@kcapr.com
Advertising and marketing agency, specializing in motorsports press relations, graphic design, marketing and special events.

Lang Marketing Resources Inc.
Fort Wayne, IN
260-399-1699
www.langmarketing.com
James Lang
jim.lang@langmarketing.com
Marketing, management consulting and research.

LeachCo LLC
Dayton, TN
423-254-5500
www.aftermarketmedia.com
David Leach
dleach@leachcollc.com
Advertising/marketing agency representing aftermarket companies to the media and general public.

Licensing Matters Global
Los Angeles, CA
479-586-3951
www.licensingmattersglobal.com
Mark Edridge
mark.edridge@licensingmattersglobal.com
Licensing agent representing brands in the automotive arena. Seeking partnerships with SEMA members interested in leveraging the value in our clients’ brands.

Lil’ Fat Monkey Enterprises LLC
Newport Beach, CA
609-462-9427
Gregg Butler
g@thefatfellas.com
Advertising and marketing agency that designs educational and entertainment products for the automotive enthusiast, hot rodder and fabricator for print, TV and the web.

Lin’s Marketing and Design
Conway, AR
501-336-4922
www.linsdesignstudio.com
Bryan Lin
bryan@linsdesignstudio.com
Marketing: photography, graphic design, renderings, build management and catalog design.

List Media Inc.
Chagrin Falls, OH
330-995-0864
www.admail.net
Robert Hicks
robert@dm1.com
List Media a database-technology company responsible for the creation and development of Admail.net, Adsocial and web.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 15:56

SEMA News—November 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

By Douglas McColloch

SEMA360

SEMA360 Online E-Marketplace Announced for November

SEMA announced an online marketplace to allow manufacturers and resellers in the specialty-automotive segment to connect and conduct business. Taking place November 2–6, SEMA360 was created after industry members expressed a need for a viable marketplace solution in the absence of the 2020 SEMA Show.

“Creating a platform where the industry can gather and discover new products and trends has always been a SEMA priority,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “SEMA360 is the ideal solution to bring the industry together at a time when we’ve all been kept apart. The platform allows qualified buyers to interact with manufacturers, see innovative new products, check out top SEMA Show builds, and take in industry-leading educational offerings.”

Key features of SEMA360 include:

  • A simplified platform for manufacturers to showcase their new products and innovations.
  • Efficient interaction between manufacturers and resellers for quality business exchange.
  • SEMA vehicle reveals from world-class builders.
  • Industry-leading education focused on professional development and new strategies.
  • SEMA’s unrivaled media contacts that amplify news, products and innovations to a worldwide audience.

More information about SEMA360 is contained in this issue starting on p. 40. To learn more about SEMA360 or to register, visit www.SEMA360.com.

Survey
According to the latest report from SEMA market research, nearly half of all aftermarket companies believed that their 2020 sales would be roughly equal to or better than sales for the previous year. Only 20% of companies expressed that same sentiment in April.

SEMA Survey: Industry Outlook and Sales Projections Continue to Improve

Since the beginning of April, SEMA market research has been tracking how businesses within the specialty-equipment industry have navigated the disruption over the past few months. Overall, the industry continues to return to more normal operations and is increasingly more optimistic about its sales going into 2021.

In a recent survey conducted July 24–30, approximately 95% of all companies said that they were mostly business as usual or were only impacted in the short term. Nearly half (45%) stated that they were doing business as usual, compared to only 17% back in April. The number of companies reporting more severe disruptions has continued to decrease over the past few months as well.

Companies are growing equally optimistic about their sales. Today, nearly half of all companies expect higher or at least the same amount of sales as last year. That is a significant jump from April, when only 20% of companies said that.

Want the latest data and trends in the specialty-equipment industry? Check out the newest SEMA market research reports, available for free download, at www.sema.org/research.

ADAS
The automotive aftermarket industry’s first active safety performance study and test program for Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking are documented in “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Aftermarket-Modified Vehicle Compliance,” which is available for download at www.semagarage.com.

Download the Latest ADAS White Paper

The automotive aftermarket industry’s first active safety performance study and test program for Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (P-AEB) are documented in a new white paper entitled “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Aftermarket-Modified Vehicle Compliance.” P-AEB is an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) designed to help mitigate or prevent certain collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.

SEMA, the SCA Performance Group division of Fox Factory, Transportation Research Center Inc., asTech and the Equipment and Tool Institute conducted the joint study and test program. The white paper is the first in a series designed to help automotive performance aftermarket manufacturers with the resources to ensure that their products can be successfully integrated with the latest factory-installed ADAS technologies.

ADAS technologies are the gateway and foundation to many of the advanced vehicle technologies being deployed by automakers today, according to John Waraniak, SEMA vice president of vehicle technology.

“Understanding how ADAS technologies, software and sensors function is an integral component for the future of successful, complete and safe aftermarket modifications, installations and vehicle builds,” he said.

Download a copy of the “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Aftermarket-Modified Vehicle Compliance” white paper at www.semagarage.com/assets/pdf/adasforumresources/resource-doc-aug-15-adas-white-paper.pdf.

Pickups


Pickup sales have remained relatively robust compared to other segments of the new-car market, according to the “2020 SEMA Market Report.”

2020 SEMA Market Report: Pickup Products Top $14 Billion in Sales

While 2020 has been a challenging year for vehicle sales, pickups seem to be weathering the storm better than other platforms. According to data from Informa PLC, sales of new pickups took the smallest hit among passenger vehicle segments during March and April. Year-to-date sales of pickups are down just 10% from 2019, versus a 22% drop for overall passenger vehicle sales. According to Experian Automotive, there were roughly 56 million pickups on the road at the end 2019, and another 1.5 million new pickups have been added to the mix in the first half of this year.

Continued pickup sales are good for the specialty-equipment industry, as pickup parts accounted for 31% of all specialty auto aftermarket sales in 2019. The “2020 SEMA Market Report” details how the $14.28 billion spent modifying pickups breaks out by product type and sales channel. As vehicle sales continue to recover and consumers use the opportunity to work on their trucks, the market report can help businesses understand what those consumers will likely be looking for during the rest of the year and beyond.

To learn more, visit www.sema.org/research and download the “2020 SEMA Market Report” for free today.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 14:21

SEMA News—November 2020

EVENTS

SEMA360: Best Practices for Buyers, Manufacturers and Media

By Chad Simon

The Digital Platform Will Help Fill the SEMA Show Void for 2020 and Could Serve as a Companion to the Live Event for Years to Come

SEMA360
On their Manufacturer Showcase page, manufacturers can highlight feature vehicles for which they’re supplying products so that buyers can see their products and direct application on the vehicle.

It’s old news that the SEMA Show could not take place this year in Las Vegas due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The silver lining, however, is the emergence of SEMA360—a digital solution that will allow users within the convenience of their own schedules to interact with participating brands, attend educational and networking sessions, view new products and spot industry trends.

SEMA360 is not necessarily a short-term fix for this year only, nor is it designed to replace the live event. If the platform turns out to be as promising as it now seems, SEMA360 may be used in conjunction with the live SEMA Show in the future as a tool to significantly increase brand exposure by opening the proceedings to a qualified buyer base around the world.

“This is a learning curve for all of us, and I think that’s one of the important parts of this whole endeavor in a year when most of the trade show industry has had to cancel or postpone their live events,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “But this is a perfect scenario for us to be able to explore this solution, learn a lot, and then leverage it for future years so it can be a perfect companion for the Show into the future.”

How It Works

One of the biggest advantages of SEMA360 is the ability for users to connect on a one-on-one basis and, without having to leave the platform, be able to view manufacturer websites, conduct video conference calls and view online presentations. The digital solution affords the potential to increase a user’s reach for years to come.

SEMA360 will be supplemented with tutorials, FAQs and how-to videos for exploring and best leveraging the user’s experience with the platform. From the beginning, users will find a welcome message that helps orient them to what the platform can do and areas they may find interesting. They will always be one click away from a how-to, tips, tricks and recommendations so that the entire experience will be specifically catered to the individual. After the event, both manufacturers and buyers will receive reports on companies they’ve had interactions with so that they can continue the conversations in the weeks and months following the event.

Much like the live event, the hours of operation will be Monday–Friday, November 2–6, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (PST). The difference is that the platform itself will be open 24 hours a day during that week. Users will still be able to connect with manufacturers after operating hours, but it may not have the immediacy that it would have during event hours when manufacturers are in their showcases.

SEMA360
Although buyers and exhibitors won’t be able to physically meet face-to-face, SEMA360 will still afford them the opportunity to interact virtually on a one-on-one basis. Without having to leave the platform, buyers can view manufacturer websites, conduct video conference calls and view online presentations.

Manufacturer Best Practices

Within the platform, all manufacturers will have their own unique Manufacturer Showcase page where they can integrate their company website with their showcase presentations and add the products they’re debuting or ones that are best sellers. They can also highlight feature vehicles for which they’re supplying products so that buyers can see their products and direct application on the vehicle. Manufacturers can also conveniently offer product brochures and more downloadable information about their company. With the new platform, buyers can directly connect with manufacturers, so it’s a good idea to set aside staff to be available for questions and interaction with buyers in order to help build their businesses as they move into the final quarter of 2020 and into 2021.

SEMA is also curating a New Products Showcase, with opportunities for companies to submit a number of products at no charge. Additional products can also be submitted at an affordable rate so that manufacturers can showcase all of their product innovations and tie them directly back to their Manufacturer Showcase page. Manufacturers will also have the ability to take buyers to a private virtual meeting room to have specific conversations about their products and what they’re currently working on.

Besides submitting their new products into the New Products Showcase area, manufacturers can attract buyers by sponsoring vehicles to be displayed in the feature vehicles area and also ensuring that their manufacturer’s showcase is easy to see and understand.

For those who need technical assistance, a customer concierge program was set up for manufacturers. The platform is designed to be fairly simple, but just in case manufacturers run into any difficulties, they are assigned a customer service representative when they register for a showcase, ensuring that they have a direct contact to help them with uploading their information and streamlining the process.

Buyer Best Practices

For buyers to utilize the platform and get the most out of SEMA360, Gattuso suggested scheduling time free of distractions so they can experience all that SEMA360 has to offer. To help build your business, determine what your priorities are and connect with manufacturers that can fulfill those needs so that when you come into the SEMA360 environment, you already have a checklist and strategy of where to start.

If you’re trying to find the newest products to fill your shelves, maybe your first stop is the New Products Showcase. If you’re looking for trends, your first stop could be Feature Vehicles. If you’re trying to find new partners and manufacturers in a specific segment, your first stop might be the SEMA360 Marketplace or manufacturer showrooms.

SEMA360
SEMA360, to be held November 2–6, was created to fill the industry’s need for a trade environment exclusively designed to connect manufacturers with qualified worldwide buyers and media.

Media Best Practices

When SEMA360 opens November 2, there will be a Media Center where members of the media can check in. However, they should continue to work in conjunction with SEMA’s public relations department and connect with them regarding the use of press releases on the SEMA360 platform. Press conferences will continue to take place, and SEMA will alert the media so that they can participate.

The media is also going to want to take advantage of the new products, feature vehicles and Manufacturer Showcases to help them find new trends and have one-on-one conversations with manufacturers about what’s happening in the industry.

Advance Preparation

All participants should set goals for what they need in 2021 and try to build plans around them, then come into the platform and learn how SEMA360 can help them achieve their goals.

From a buyer standpoint, those goals might include finding new products, identifying new trends, and exploring new company offerings. As you set these goals, build a plan that will help you reach them. So if your aim is to find new products, start with the New Products Showcase, and from there, you’ll be able to find manufacturers to talk with about building those products into your business.

Pre-event promotion is one of the most important tools manufacturers can use to build some of their own momentum so that buyers know they can visit them and have conversations once the event opens.

“Marketing their participation in SEMA360 prior to the event can help give manufacturers traction with what they showcase within the platforms,” Gattuso said. “Much like the live event, this is not something where you just come in and wait for it to happen. You’ve got to be prepared and have a plan.”

Readers will find a partial list of participating manufacturers on p. 106 in this issue, but since SEMA News deadlines fell early in the development of the SEMA360 platform, buyers interested in building their list of companies to meet with may refer to www.sema360.com for the latest news.

Managing Your Schedule

The SEMA360 platform will feature a function where users can manage their own schedules and decide exactly what they want to do based on preferences they receive from exploring the platform on their own. At the same time, a recommendation element will accompany the user’s schedule.

“Users will receive recommendations about educational sessions they may be interested in, people they might like to meet, and manufacturers they might want to visit—much like Amazon and Netflix do as they learn your preferences,” Gattuso said.

The education that happens at the SEMA Show serves the need member companies have to build their businesses, so SEMA360 will offer an array of speakers who are focused on helping companies in these unprecedented times and leveraging today’s unique opportunities to increase their business.”

“We’re going through the speaker roster that we had planned for the 2020 SEMA Show, taking the best of those and putting that into an online education system that will be second to none,” Gattuso said,

The SEMA Show typically offers countless receptions and networking opportunities, and so a feature will exist within the platform to schedule networking events. Users will be able to organize themselves into smaller groups and go from one small group to another one and have online conversations with each other.

Companion to the Live Show

In the long run, according to Gattuso, SEMA360 may develop into an ideal companion platform for the live event as a means to exponentially grow SEMA’s worldwide reach.

“We’re excited because we’re going to be able to create content at our live event and directly upload that into a digital environment so that people around the world will be able to participate while maintaining the value, excitement and passion that happens at our live event,” he said. “At the same time, we’ll be able to increase the amount of exposure that a brand can have and bring the specialty-equipment aftermarket to a much broader audience.”

In addition, Gattuso acknowledged the demand for a marketplace to occur between manufacturers and buyers and also for manufacturers to introduce new products and builders to showcase their cars. SEMA360 will feature several hundred cars with photos, videos and builder biographies, where users can view the vehicles, learn about the builders and specifically see the parts involved in the build. From there, they can connect directly to the manufacturer.

“Identifying that demand and building a platform to help satisfy that need is what SEMA360 is all about,” Gattuso said. “We did not go into this thinking that it would be a direct replacement for the live event—because there’s no way to replace that iconic week that happens in November—but rather to help fill this need and do it in a different way.”

For more SEMA360 information, visit www.SEMA360.com.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 14:21

SEMA News—November 2020

EVENTS

SEMA360: Best Practices for Buyers, Manufacturers and Media

By Chad Simon

The Digital Platform Will Help Fill the SEMA Show Void for 2020 and Could Serve as a Companion to the Live Event for Years to Come

SEMA360
On their Manufacturer Showcase page, manufacturers can highlight feature vehicles for which they’re supplying products so that buyers can see their products and direct application on the vehicle.

It’s old news that the SEMA Show could not take place this year in Las Vegas due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The silver lining, however, is the emergence of SEMA360—a digital solution that will allow users within the convenience of their own schedules to interact with participating brands, attend educational and networking sessions, view new products and spot industry trends.

SEMA360 is not necessarily a short-term fix for this year only, nor is it designed to replace the live event. If the platform turns out to be as promising as it now seems, SEMA360 may be used in conjunction with the live SEMA Show in the future as a tool to significantly increase brand exposure by opening the proceedings to a qualified buyer base around the world.

“This is a learning curve for all of us, and I think that’s one of the important parts of this whole endeavor in a year when most of the trade show industry has had to cancel or postpone their live events,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “But this is a perfect scenario for us to be able to explore this solution, learn a lot, and then leverage it for future years so it can be a perfect companion for the Show into the future.”

How It Works

One of the biggest advantages of SEMA360 is the ability for users to connect on a one-on-one basis and, without having to leave the platform, be able to view manufacturer websites, conduct video conference calls and view online presentations. The digital solution affords the potential to increase a user’s reach for years to come.

SEMA360 will be supplemented with tutorials, FAQs and how-to videos for exploring and best leveraging the user’s experience with the platform. From the beginning, users will find a welcome message that helps orient them to what the platform can do and areas they may find interesting. They will always be one click away from a how-to, tips, tricks and recommendations so that the entire experience will be specifically catered to the individual. After the event, both manufacturers and buyers will receive reports on companies they’ve had interactions with so that they can continue the conversations in the weeks and months following the event.

Much like the live event, the hours of operation will be Monday–Friday, November 2–6, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (PST). The difference is that the platform itself will be open 24 hours a day during that week. Users will still be able to connect with manufacturers after operating hours, but it may not have the immediacy that it would have during event hours when manufacturers are in their showcases.

SEMA360
Although buyers and exhibitors won’t be able to physically meet face-to-face, SEMA360 will still afford them the opportunity to interact virtually on a one-on-one basis. Without having to leave the platform, buyers can view manufacturer websites, conduct video conference calls and view online presentations.

Manufacturer Best Practices

Within the platform, all manufacturers will have their own unique Manufacturer Showcase page where they can integrate their company website with their showcase presentations and add the products they’re debuting or ones that are best sellers. They can also highlight feature vehicles for which they’re supplying products so that buyers can see their products and direct application on the vehicle. Manufacturers can also conveniently offer product brochures and more downloadable information about their company. With the new platform, buyers can directly connect with manufacturers, so it’s a good idea to set aside staff to be available for questions and interaction with buyers in order to help build their businesses as they move into the final quarter of 2020 and into 2021.

SEMA is also curating a New Products Showcase, with opportunities for companies to submit a number of products at no charge. Additional products can also be submitted at an affordable rate so that manufacturers can showcase all of their product innovations and tie them directly back to their Manufacturer Showcase page. Manufacturers will also have the ability to take buyers to a private virtual meeting room to have specific conversations about their products and what they’re currently working on.

Besides submitting their new products into the New Products Showcase area, manufacturers can attract buyers by sponsoring vehicles to be displayed in the feature vehicles area and also ensuring that their manufacturer’s showcase is easy to see and understand.

For those who need technical assistance, a customer concierge program was set up for manufacturers. The platform is designed to be fairly simple, but just in case manufacturers run into any difficulties, they are assigned a customer service representative when they register for a showcase, ensuring that they have a direct contact to help them with uploading their information and streamlining the process.

Buyer Best Practices

For buyers to utilize the platform and get the most out of SEMA360, Gattuso suggested scheduling time free of distractions so they can experience all that SEMA360 has to offer. To help build your business, determine what your priorities are and connect with manufacturers that can fulfill those needs so that when you come into the SEMA360 environment, you already have a checklist and strategy of where to start.

If you’re trying to find the newest products to fill your shelves, maybe your first stop is the New Products Showcase. If you’re looking for trends, your first stop could be Feature Vehicles. If you’re trying to find new partners and manufacturers in a specific segment, your first stop might be the SEMA360 Marketplace or manufacturer showrooms.

SEMA360
SEMA360, to be held November 2–6, was created to fill the industry’s need for a trade environment exclusively designed to connect manufacturers with qualified worldwide buyers and media.

Media Best Practices

When SEMA360 opens November 2, there will be a Media Center where members of the media can check in. However, they should continue to work in conjunction with SEMA’s public relations department and connect with them regarding the use of press releases on the SEMA360 platform. Press conferences will continue to take place, and SEMA will alert the media so that they can participate.

The media is also going to want to take advantage of the new products, feature vehicles and Manufacturer Showcases to help them find new trends and have one-on-one conversations with manufacturers about what’s happening in the industry.

Advance Preparation

All participants should set goals for what they need in 2021 and try to build plans around them, then come into the platform and learn how SEMA360 can help them achieve their goals.

From a buyer standpoint, those goals might include finding new products, identifying new trends, and exploring new company offerings. As you set these goals, build a plan that will help you reach them. So if your aim is to find new products, start with the New Products Showcase, and from there, you’ll be able to find manufacturers to talk with about building those products into your business.

Pre-event promotion is one of the most important tools manufacturers can use to build some of their own momentum so that buyers know they can visit them and have conversations once the event opens.

“Marketing their participation in SEMA360 prior to the event can help give manufacturers traction with what they showcase within the platforms,” Gattuso said. “Much like the live event, this is not something where you just come in and wait for it to happen. You’ve got to be prepared and have a plan.”

Readers will find a partial list of participating manufacturers on p. 106 in this issue, but since SEMA News deadlines fell early in the development of the SEMA360 platform, buyers interested in building their list of companies to meet with may refer to www.sema360.com for the latest news.

Managing Your Schedule

The SEMA360 platform will feature a function where users can manage their own schedules and decide exactly what they want to do based on preferences they receive from exploring the platform on their own. At the same time, a recommendation element will accompany the user’s schedule.

“Users will receive recommendations about educational sessions they may be interested in, people they might like to meet, and manufacturers they might want to visit—much like Amazon and Netflix do as they learn your preferences,” Gattuso said.

The education that happens at the SEMA Show serves the need member companies have to build their businesses, so SEMA360 will offer an array of speakers who are focused on helping companies in these unprecedented times and leveraging today’s unique opportunities to increase their business.”

“We’re going through the speaker roster that we had planned for the 2020 SEMA Show, taking the best of those and putting that into an online education system that will be second to none,” Gattuso said,

The SEMA Show typically offers countless receptions and networking opportunities, and so a feature will exist within the platform to schedule networking events. Users will be able to organize themselves into smaller groups and go from one small group to another one and have online conversations with each other.

Companion to the Live Show

In the long run, according to Gattuso, SEMA360 may develop into an ideal companion platform for the live event as a means to exponentially grow SEMA’s worldwide reach.

“We’re excited because we’re going to be able to create content at our live event and directly upload that into a digital environment so that people around the world will be able to participate while maintaining the value, excitement and passion that happens at our live event,” he said. “At the same time, we’ll be able to increase the amount of exposure that a brand can have and bring the specialty-equipment aftermarket to a much broader audience.”

In addition, Gattuso acknowledged the demand for a marketplace to occur between manufacturers and buyers and also for manufacturers to introduce new products and builders to showcase their cars. SEMA360 will feature several hundred cars with photos, videos and builder biographies, where users can view the vehicles, learn about the builders and specifically see the parts involved in the build. From there, they can connect directly to the manufacturer.

“Identifying that demand and building a platform to help satisfy that need is what SEMA360 is all about,” Gattuso said. “We did not go into this thinking that it would be a direct replacement for the live event—because there’s no way to replace that iconic week that happens in November—but rather to help fill this need and do it in a different way.”

For more SEMA360 information, visit www.SEMA360.com.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 14:01

SEMA News—November 2020

NEW PRODUCTS

By Gigi Ho

SDC Product News

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for the specialty-equipment segment containing millions of products and vehicle fitments from performance and accessories brands. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data warehouse, complete with comprehensive online tools, and a team of dedicated data and technology experts to assist manufacturers and resellers with product data needs. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

In today’s marketplace, robust product data is needed to drive better customer experiences and higher growth. The products featured below are from SDC member companies that have attained Gold or Platinum level data. SDC members meeting data scorecard requirements are invited to submit product releases for consideration to enews@semadatacoop.org.

Aeromotive
Curt
Supreme Suspensions

Aeromotive Inc.

Fuel Pump Modules

Aeromotive introduces its direct drop-in fuel pump modules for ’11–’17 Ford Mustangs, excluding GT500 models. Phantom Series Fuel Pump Modules are compatible with factory plastic fuel tanks; available in single-, dual- and triple-fuel-pump configurations; and preassembled. Available configurations include a single 450-lph pump engineered to support up to 700 hp; dual 340-lph pumps manufactured to support up to 1,295 hp; dual 450-lph pumps constructed support up to 1,500 hp; and triple 450-lph pumps designed to support up to 2,300 hp. Each configuration is also offered as a complete kit, including a fuel filter, a fuel-pressure gauge and the recommended fuel-pressure regulator based on flow rate. Kits do not include plumbing or electrical components to complete the installation. Information: https://aeromotiveinc.com or 913-647-7300.

CURT

RockerBall Cushion Hitch Ball

The CURT RockerBall with ShockDrop technology is a cushion hitch trailer ball that dynamically absorbs jerking and jarring from your trailer at the coupling point. Just bolt it onto your existing ball mount to enjoy increased comfort, enhanced control and extended longevity of your vehicle’s systems. RockerBall is available in multiple sizes and capacities to accommodate a variety of towing setups. Information: www.curtmfg.com or 877-287-8634.

Supreme Suspensions

Uniball Upper Contral Arms

Supreme Suspensions Uniball Upper Control Arms are the fastest and easiest way to optimize front axle alignment in your truck’s suspension setup. Each arm is CAD-/CAM-engineered 4130 chromoly steel, providing the highest strength and standard for upper control arms on the market. Added to the mix, a set of polyurethane frame pivot bushings with 90°-angled zerk fittings to easily grease the bushings during install or regular maintenance. Our proprietary three-stage powdercoating is then used to protect the product from harsh elements your vehicle might be put through. Information: www.supremesuspensions.com or 888-810-6791.

 

 

 

 

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 14:01

SEMA News—November 2020

NEW PRODUCTS

By Gigi Ho

SDC Product News

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is “data central” for the specialty-equipment segment containing millions of products and vehicle fitments from performance and accessories brands. Created by SEMA, the SDC is the definitive, industry-owned and -operated centralized data warehouse, complete with comprehensive online tools, and a team of dedicated data and technology experts to assist manufacturers and resellers with product data needs. Learn more about the SDC at www.semadatacoop.org.

In today’s marketplace, robust product data is needed to drive better customer experiences and higher growth. The products featured below are from SDC member companies that have attained Gold or Platinum level data. SDC members meeting data scorecard requirements are invited to submit product releases for consideration to enews@semadatacoop.org.

Aeromotive
Curt
Supreme Suspensions

Aeromotive Inc.

Fuel Pump Modules

Aeromotive introduces its direct drop-in fuel pump modules for ’11–’17 Ford Mustangs, excluding GT500 models. Phantom Series Fuel Pump Modules are compatible with factory plastic fuel tanks; available in single-, dual- and triple-fuel-pump configurations; and preassembled. Available configurations include a single 450-lph pump engineered to support up to 700 hp; dual 340-lph pumps manufactured to support up to 1,295 hp; dual 450-lph pumps constructed support up to 1,500 hp; and triple 450-lph pumps designed to support up to 2,300 hp. Each configuration is also offered as a complete kit, including a fuel filter, a fuel-pressure gauge and the recommended fuel-pressure regulator based on flow rate. Kits do not include plumbing or electrical components to complete the installation. Information: https://aeromotiveinc.com or 913-647-7300.

CURT

RockerBall Cushion Hitch Ball

The CURT RockerBall with ShockDrop technology is a cushion hitch trailer ball that dynamically absorbs jerking and jarring from your trailer at the coupling point. Just bolt it onto your existing ball mount to enjoy increased comfort, enhanced control and extended longevity of your vehicle’s systems. RockerBall is available in multiple sizes and capacities to accommodate a variety of towing setups. Information: www.curtmfg.com or 877-287-8634.

Supreme Suspensions

Uniball Upper Contral Arms

Supreme Suspensions Uniball Upper Control Arms are the fastest and easiest way to optimize front axle alignment in your truck’s suspension setup. Each arm is CAD-/CAM-engineered 4130 chromoly steel, providing the highest strength and standard for upper control arms on the market. Added to the mix, a set of polyurethane frame pivot bushings with 90°-angled zerk fittings to easily grease the bushings during install or regular maintenance. Our proprietary three-stage powdercoating is then used to protect the product from harsh elements your vehicle might be put through. Information: www.supremesuspensions.com or 888-810-6791.

 

 

 

 

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 13:49

SEMA News—November 2020

Short-Term Solution, Long-Term Vision

By Chris Kersting

Chris Kersting

We are quickly approaching the launch of SEMA360, introduced this year to help fill the void left by the absence of the 2020 SEMA Show. By now, hundreds of industry manufacturers, from the most prominent to the newest upstarts, have loaded the SEMA360 platform with this year’s new products, Show vehicles and contact information to connect supplier personnel with SEMA’s extensive list of qualified industry resellers. It all kicks off the morning of November 2, and it will be an exciting moment for many reasons.

SEMA 360 won’t be the same as the SEMA Show, but the core functionality—a marketplace that efficiently connects buyers and sellers—is the heart of the platform. As businesses have recently come to explore and benefit from online solutions, SEMA360 represents a new and efficient way for resellers and the media to access what the SEMA Show ordinarily serves up: the world’s best collection of innovative suppliers spotlighting the latest automotive trends and developments. And as with the SEMA Show, the association has added high-quality educational and technical seminars along with cutting-edge interviews with leading car-culture personalities.

We hope industry members will jump in this year and benefit from all that this new marketplace is offering, but there is also a larger purpose and a longer-term vision. SEMA360 could become much more than a one-shot remedy in a COVID-impacted year.

The initial launch will provide the SEMA Show’s marketplace fundamentals, but we think SEMA360 may have the potential to become a permanent enhancement to the in-person event—a value-added feature that can carry manufacturers’ content to more people over a greater period than the live Show alone. We also see a future where end consumers—enthusiasts who crave access to all that the annual SEMA Show offers—will have greater opportunities to access Show content and stoke the fires of automotive lifestyles. SEMA360 can become an asset that evolves with the growing online needs and capabilities of the industry and its customers.

For the 2020 edition of this e-marketplace, some things will be the same as at the SEMA Show. The event will run November 2–6, and buyers and media who participate will have met high qualification standards. Buyers and media can register anytime in advance, or register while the event is in progress. The platform will host a New Products Showcase, which we expect will still be a top priority for buyers.

You’ll find more details about how the platform works elsewhere in this issue. Check it out. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how easy and functional this e-marketplace turns out to be.

For media, there is an online pressroom where they can review and gather press releases and media content from the industry. In addition, media will have access to the entire SEMA360 environment to browse, schedule specific meetings and interviews, and to build stories for their audience of readers, viewers and content consumers.

Our intentions for SEMA360 this year are modest—mainly to help industry members fill the void left in the SEMA Show’s absence. In the long run, we can foresee a very useful companion platform for the in-person event. SEMA360 will give us the ability to grow the reach of the SEMA Show and at the same time expand exposure for aftermarket brands and the broader market for the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 13:27

SEMA News—November 2020

BUSINESS

The SEMA Data Co-op’s Data Excellence Awards

Four Ways to Optimize Your Product Data Set

By Douglas McColloch

SDC
Hosting a data depository of 500 companies boasting more than 4.5 million parts, the SEMA Data Co-op can provide resellers with “one-stop shopping” for the latest new-product and fitment information.

For SEMA members, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is a valuable asset for product data creation and management. Not only is the SDC the largest aftermarket industry data resource—it represents more than 500 brands with a collective inventory of more than 4.5 million parts—but also its unique approach to data management and file transfer can make exports available in any format a member requires. Whether the need is for complete PIES and ACES XML files or a custom-designed spreadsheet, the SDC can provide it.

For manufacturers, maintaining and regularly updating a high-quality data set is crucial to communicating effectively with resellers, helping streamline operations and maximizing sales. Incomplete or inaccurate data can create inefficiencies, making products more difficult to find and increasing the likelihood of customer dissatisfaction.

Even if your current product data is accurate, however, it can become outdated if not frequently reviewed and revised—and, in many instances, replaced altogether with data created in newer, richer file formats. Earlier this year, the SDC released a new member “scorecard” with recommended data improvements for SDC members to maintain their respective product-data rankings (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum). Many companies answered the call, and SEMA is recognizing them this month with the SDC Data Excellence Awards, which honor the companies that have worked with SDC over the year to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. (See p. 102 in this issue for the complete roster of 2020 SDC Data Excellence Award recipients and their company descriptions.)

We recently spoke with Gigi Ho, SEMA Data Co-op vice president of operations, to learn more about the Data Excellence Awards and to discuss other SDC initiatives in the works for 2021 and beyond. What follows has been edited for space and clarity.

SEMA News: Since the SEMA Show has been cancelled for 2020, what are some of the things the SDC has in the works for the next few months that you might have announced during the Show but that you’d like to share with our members now?

Gigi Ho: The feedback from our manufacturer members is that getting their data to resellers is an important aspect of the SDC, helping them communicate the products and fitments that they have available to the larger industry. What we’re still working on and will soon be releasing is a new Export Manager for our reseller members.

Over the last eight months, we’ve increased our reseller membership in terms of participants by 20% over last year. That’s a pretty significant rise in usage. That number has really grown in the last four or five months, which is reflective of everyone staying at home and shopping online during the pandemic. People are doing more and more online research than ever, and that has increased the interest of resellers to get data online to facilitate sales.

The new Export Manager allows resellers a lot of control around how they want that information exported to them—whether it’s to feed a website, to feed a point-of-sale system, or simply to hand over to their merchandisers and category managers so that they can have a quick view
of what’s available for each brand.

SN: We’ve heard that some resellers were having difficulty accessing some of the data as it currently existed. Is the new Export Manager meant to address some of those issues? How did it come into being?

GH: In February of this year, we released a new V2 scorecard with new criteria for the SDC, and there were instances where a manufacturer might have been ranked highly but was now missing information—often, important information. We scored all 500 brands in our system, and many of them dropped down one if not two levels from their current standings based on these new scoring criteria. Since then, the brands have worked really hard to improve their standings—getting descriptions together, getting assets together, getting the information that they need—and there aren’t a lot of shortcuts they can take.

The SDC Data Excellence Award recognizes those manufacturers and brands who have stepped up their game, realized that they were “kicked down” but worked themselves back up to meet the needs of their customers. We wanted to recognize that as a group, there is more consistency around what we can expect of product information.

SN: What role have resellers played in the creation and implementation of the new system?

GH: We went through a two-month interview process and a lengthy UX design review process with a handful of our resellers who have been outspoken in the past about utilizing our system. We got their buy-in with regard to how they can navigate these new interfaces and get the product information in the format they need.

SN: What criteria determine a Data Excellence Award winner? How much data—and what kinds specifically—do manufacturers need to have accessible for resellers if they want to optimize their data set?

GH: The biggest chunk of the score comes from product descriptions. We need descriptions that matter to resellers and their customers, so questions companies need to ask include: Are your descriptions detailing your products effectively? Are you listing all the key points of that product information within your descriptions?

The second criterion is features and benefits. It’s a description type, but more of a short-form presentation.

A third criterion is product attributes. These are the finer points, especially if you’re talking about things that have specific sizing or material matters. So product attributes become a huge aspect of the scoring.

Finally, because we’re in 2020, digital assets are a huge matter in the data scoring. Nowadays, you need more than one image of a product and multiple angles of that product, especially if there are connection points, which will require their own images or videos. These could be either lifestyle-type videos or instructional or demo-type videos.

Another thing that’s crucial is that images are not pixilated when a consumer clicks on them, so they can get the best view of that product. The more complicated the part is, and the more attachment points that it has with other parts, the more high-resolution images you need. But video is becoming the most vital aspect of the data set that you need to provide.

SN: How has the COVID-19 disruption affected consumers’ buying habits, and how in turn does that impact the need for companies to continue to optimize their product data?

GH: Even if people are buying in-store again, they’re researching online first. The number used to be 80%, but honestly, something like 98% of consumer product researches start online now. They say it takes something like 16 weeks for a habit to form—and we are well past 16 weeks at this point. When the pandemic started, there might have been a little hesitancy, but maybe a month later, everyone was shopping online.

Prior to COVID-19, the conventional wisdom was that people might conduct online research but didn’t really buy online. Well, that’s not happening anymore. That habit has completely flipped on its head, and even if everything opens back up and people are able to go into retail stores, the number of people who are comfortable with buying online will be higher than before. That’s where product data comes in—and product data drives sales.

SN: Are there any additional product-data initiatives under consideration for 2021?

GH: An important aspect for manufacturers, which SDC managers don’t yet have worked into the database but which we will work with partners who can help us get there, is handling inventory—knowing your current inventory levels to feed to your customers.

Having an inventory feed is a critical aspect of your product data. We provide the product information as mentioned before, with attributes and digital assets and descriptions and such. But people can’t buy if they don’t know what’s in your inventory, and if they don’t know that you have it, they will go with someone that they do know has it for sale. So inventory and availability of product is a huge factor in maintaining that—especially for 2021.

Sun, 11/01/2020 - 13:27

SEMA News—November 2020

BUSINESS

The SEMA Data Co-op’s Data Excellence Awards

Four Ways to Optimize Your Product Data Set

By Douglas McColloch

SDC
Hosting a data depository of 500 companies boasting more than 4.5 million parts, the SEMA Data Co-op can provide resellers with “one-stop shopping” for the latest new-product and fitment information.

For SEMA members, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is a valuable asset for product data creation and management. Not only is the SDC the largest aftermarket industry data resource—it represents more than 500 brands with a collective inventory of more than 4.5 million parts—but also its unique approach to data management and file transfer can make exports available in any format a member requires. Whether the need is for complete PIES and ACES XML files or a custom-designed spreadsheet, the SDC can provide it.

For manufacturers, maintaining and regularly updating a high-quality data set is crucial to communicating effectively with resellers, helping streamline operations and maximizing sales. Incomplete or inaccurate data can create inefficiencies, making products more difficult to find and increasing the likelihood of customer dissatisfaction.

Even if your current product data is accurate, however, it can become outdated if not frequently reviewed and revised—and, in many instances, replaced altogether with data created in newer, richer file formats. Earlier this year, the SDC released a new member “scorecard” with recommended data improvements for SDC members to maintain their respective product-data rankings (Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum). Many companies answered the call, and SEMA is recognizing them this month with the SDC Data Excellence Awards, which honor the companies that have worked with SDC over the year to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. (See p. 102 in this issue for the complete roster of 2020 SDC Data Excellence Award recipients and their company descriptions.)

We recently spoke with Gigi Ho, SEMA Data Co-op vice president of operations, to learn more about the Data Excellence Awards and to discuss other SDC initiatives in the works for 2021 and beyond. What follows has been edited for space and clarity.

SEMA News: Since the SEMA Show has been cancelled for 2020, what are some of the things the SDC has in the works for the next few months that you might have announced during the Show but that you’d like to share with our members now?

Gigi Ho: The feedback from our manufacturer members is that getting their data to resellers is an important aspect of the SDC, helping them communicate the products and fitments that they have available to the larger industry. What we’re still working on and will soon be releasing is a new Export Manager for our reseller members.

Over the last eight months, we’ve increased our reseller membership in terms of participants by 20% over last year. That’s a pretty significant rise in usage. That number has really grown in the last four or five months, which is reflective of everyone staying at home and shopping online during the pandemic. People are doing more and more online research than ever, and that has increased the interest of resellers to get data online to facilitate sales.

The new Export Manager allows resellers a lot of control around how they want that information exported to them—whether it’s to feed a website, to feed a point-of-sale system, or simply to hand over to their merchandisers and category managers so that they can have a quick view
of what’s available for each brand.

SN: We’ve heard that some resellers were having difficulty accessing some of the data as it currently existed. Is the new Export Manager meant to address some of those issues? How did it come into being?

GH: In February of this year, we released a new V2 scorecard with new criteria for the SDC, and there were instances where a manufacturer might have been ranked highly but was now missing information—often, important information. We scored all 500 brands in our system, and many of them dropped down one if not two levels from their current standings based on these new scoring criteria. Since then, the brands have worked really hard to improve their standings—getting descriptions together, getting assets together, getting the information that they need—and there aren’t a lot of shortcuts they can take.

The SDC Data Excellence Award recognizes those manufacturers and brands who have stepped up their game, realized that they were “kicked down” but worked themselves back up to meet the needs of their customers. We wanted to recognize that as a group, there is more consistency around what we can expect of product information.

SN: What role have resellers played in the creation and implementation of the new system?

GH: We went through a two-month interview process and a lengthy UX design review process with a handful of our resellers who have been outspoken in the past about utilizing our system. We got their buy-in with regard to how they can navigate these new interfaces and get the product information in the format they need.

SN: What criteria determine a Data Excellence Award winner? How much data—and what kinds specifically—do manufacturers need to have accessible for resellers if they want to optimize their data set?

GH: The biggest chunk of the score comes from product descriptions. We need descriptions that matter to resellers and their customers, so questions companies need to ask include: Are your descriptions detailing your products effectively? Are you listing all the key points of that product information within your descriptions?

The second criterion is features and benefits. It’s a description type, but more of a short-form presentation.

A third criterion is product attributes. These are the finer points, especially if you’re talking about things that have specific sizing or material matters. So product attributes become a huge aspect of the scoring.

Finally, because we’re in 2020, digital assets are a huge matter in the data scoring. Nowadays, you need more than one image of a product and multiple angles of that product, especially if there are connection points, which will require their own images or videos. These could be either lifestyle-type videos or instructional or demo-type videos.

Another thing that’s crucial is that images are not pixilated when a consumer clicks on them, so they can get the best view of that product. The more complicated the part is, and the more attachment points that it has with other parts, the more high-resolution images you need. But video is becoming the most vital aspect of the data set that you need to provide.

SN: How has the COVID-19 disruption affected consumers’ buying habits, and how in turn does that impact the need for companies to continue to optimize their product data?

GH: Even if people are buying in-store again, they’re researching online first. The number used to be 80%, but honestly, something like 98% of consumer product researches start online now. They say it takes something like 16 weeks for a habit to form—and we are well past 16 weeks at this point. When the pandemic started, there might have been a little hesitancy, but maybe a month later, everyone was shopping online.

Prior to COVID-19, the conventional wisdom was that people might conduct online research but didn’t really buy online. Well, that’s not happening anymore. That habit has completely flipped on its head, and even if everything opens back up and people are able to go into retail stores, the number of people who are comfortable with buying online will be higher than before. That’s where product data comes in—and product data drives sales.

SN: Are there any additional product-data initiatives under consideration for 2021?

GH: An important aspect for manufacturers, which SDC managers don’t yet have worked into the database but which we will work with partners who can help us get there, is handling inventory—knowing your current inventory levels to feed to your customers.

Having an inventory feed is a critical aspect of your product data. We provide the product information as mentioned before, with attributes and digital assets and descriptions and such. But people can’t buy if they don’t know what’s in your inventory, and if they don’t know that you have it, they will go with someone that they do know has it for sale. So inventory and availability of product is a huge factor in maintaining that—especially for 2021.