By Della Domingo

Free eCommerce plugins for platforms, such as WooCommerce (and soon Shopify), are available to resellers through the SDC, which includes product data from more than 500 brands.

As the country continues to shelter at home, consumers are spending more time shopping online. In addition to groceries and other essential purchases, the automotive aftermarket industry has seen an increase in interest and sales.

“Enthusiasts are turning to the automotive hobby as a release from the current situation, and they’re taking advantage of their time at home to work on projects that have sat idle in their garages,” said Gigi Ho, SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) director of operations. “Aftermarket resellers can mitigate downturns that may have resulted from the Coronavirus pandemic by focusing on online sales and product data.”

Updated and standardized product data gets resellers’ products in front of consumers, particularly as they search online for products designed for their specific vehicles. Free eCommerce plugins for platforms, such as WooCommerce (and soon Shopify), are available to resellers through the SDC, which includes product data from more than 500 brands.

To get more information on how to begin downloading and accessing product data from the SDC, fill out an inquiry form visit or contact Sophia Cardona at sophiac@semadatacoop.org or 909-978-6654.

By Della Domingo

Free eCommerce plugins for platforms, such as WooCommerce (and soon Shopify), are available to resellers through the SDC, which includes product data from more than 500 brands.

As the country continues to shelter at home, consumers are spending more time shopping online. In addition to groceries and other essential purchases, the automotive aftermarket industry has seen an increase in interest and sales.

“Enthusiasts are turning to the automotive hobby as a release from the current situation, and they’re taking advantage of their time at home to work on projects that have sat idle in their garages,” said Gigi Ho, SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) director of operations. “Aftermarket resellers can mitigate downturns that may have resulted from the Coronavirus pandemic by focusing on online sales and product data.”

Updated and standardized product data gets resellers’ products in front of consumers, particularly as they search online for products designed for their specific vehicles. Free eCommerce plugins for platforms, such as WooCommerce (and soon Shopify), are available to resellers through the SDC, which includes product data from more than 500 brands.

To get more information on how to begin downloading and accessing product data from the SDC, fill out an inquiry form visit or contact Sophia Cardona at sophiac@semadatacoop.org or 909-978-6654.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Small businesses are anxiously awaiting passage of legislation by the U.S. Congress to add funds to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which has spent the initial $349 billion authorized in late March. While there is bipartisan support to add $250 billion in additional funding for the PPP, there is disagreement over including additional funding for cash-strapped states and hospitals as well. Earlier this week, SEMA and more than 250 other organizations sent a joint letter to Congressional leadership requesting that Congress pass legislation to increase funding for PPP.

The PPP loan was a key component of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which became law March 27, 2020. The CARES Act provided $349 billion for initial funding to guarantee PPP loans for small businesses through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that equal up to 250% of a company’s monthly payroll (capped at $10 million), which can be used to cover payroll, mortgage, rent and other specified expenses. Lawmakers are now seeking to increase the PPP funds to meet unmet demand. The SBA reported that it has approved more than 1.6 million applications for loans from nearly 5,000 lending institutions.

PPP loans offer favorable terms (1% interest rate, no collateral or personal guarantee requirements, no borrower or lender fees and no payments for six months), and the SBA will forgive that portion of the loans used to cover payroll, mortgage interest, rent payments and the cost of utilities for the first eight weeks if small businesses retain their employees and payroll levels (75% of the amount forgiven must be for payroll).

It is recommended that applicants work with a bank where they have an existing relationship, as there are reports that many banks are not providing loans to businesses they haven’t worked with previously. Borrowers may find eligible lenders through the SBA’s webpage, which brings up local financial institutions offering PPP loans.  

SEMA is also urging Congress to provide additional funding for the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for businesses that have been adversely impacted by the Coronavirus, as it is close to running out of its original $10 billion in funding. The EIDL provides loans of up to $2 million at 3.75% and is funded directly through the SBA rather than the bank. However, recent reports note that the SBA has limited initial loans under the EIDL program to $25,000 to $35,000 or less as a result of resource constraints. Loans may be used to retain employees, address interrupted supply chains, make rent or mortgage payments and pay other bills. The first $10,000 of the loan is a grant that does not need to be repaid. If a company later receives a PPP loan, the grant will be applied to amounts forgiven under the PPP loan.

For more information on PPP, EIDL, and other federal programs related to Covid-19, check out SEMA’s resources at www.sema.org/coronavirus.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Small businesses are anxiously awaiting passage of legislation by the U.S. Congress to add funds to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which has spent the initial $349 billion authorized in late March. While there is bipartisan support to add $250 billion in additional funding for the PPP, there is disagreement over including additional funding for cash-strapped states and hospitals as well. Earlier this week, SEMA and more than 250 other organizations sent a joint letter to Congressional leadership requesting that Congress pass legislation to increase funding for PPP.

The PPP loan was a key component of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which became law March 27, 2020. The CARES Act provided $349 billion for initial funding to guarantee PPP loans for small businesses through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that equal up to 250% of a company’s monthly payroll (capped at $10 million), which can be used to cover payroll, mortgage, rent and other specified expenses. Lawmakers are now seeking to increase the PPP funds to meet unmet demand. The SBA reported that it has approved more than 1.6 million applications for loans from nearly 5,000 lending institutions.

PPP loans offer favorable terms (1% interest rate, no collateral or personal guarantee requirements, no borrower or lender fees and no payments for six months), and the SBA will forgive that portion of the loans used to cover payroll, mortgage interest, rent payments and the cost of utilities for the first eight weeks if small businesses retain their employees and payroll levels (75% of the amount forgiven must be for payroll).

It is recommended that applicants work with a bank where they have an existing relationship, as there are reports that many banks are not providing loans to businesses they haven’t worked with previously. Borrowers may find eligible lenders through the SBA’s webpage, which brings up local financial institutions offering PPP loans.  

SEMA is also urging Congress to provide additional funding for the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for businesses that have been adversely impacted by the Coronavirus, as it is close to running out of its original $10 billion in funding. The EIDL provides loans of up to $2 million at 3.75% and is funded directly through the SBA rather than the bank. However, recent reports note that the SBA has limited initial loans under the EIDL program to $25,000 to $35,000 or less as a result of resource constraints. Loans may be used to retain employees, address interrupted supply chains, make rent or mortgage payments and pay other bills. The first $10,000 of the loan is a grant that does not need to be repaid. If a company later receives a PPP loan, the grant will be applied to amounts forgiven under the PPP loan.

For more information on PPP, EIDL, and other federal programs related to Covid-19, check out SEMA’s resources at www.sema.org/coronavirus.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Small businesses are anxiously awaiting passage of legislation by the U.S. Congress to add funds to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which has spent the initial $349 billion authorized in late March. While there is bipartisan support to add $250 billion in additional funding for the PPP, there is disagreement over including additional funding for cash-strapped states and hospitals as well. Earlier this week, SEMA and more than 250 other organizations sent a joint letter to Congressional leadership requesting that Congress pass legislation to increase funding for PPP.

The PPP loan was a key component of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which became law March 27, 2020. The CARES Act provided $349 billion for initial funding to guarantee PPP loans for small businesses through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that equal up to 250% of a company’s monthly payroll (capped at $10 million), which can be used to cover payroll, mortgage, rent and other specified expenses. Lawmakers are now seeking to increase the PPP funds to meet unmet demand. The SBA reported that it has approved more than 1.6 million applications for loans from nearly 5,000 lending institutions.

PPP loans offer favorable terms (1% interest rate, no collateral or personal guarantee requirements, no borrower or lender fees and no payments for six months), and the SBA will forgive that portion of the loans used to cover payroll, mortgage interest, rent payments and the cost of utilities for the first eight weeks if small businesses retain their employees and payroll levels (75% of the amount forgiven must be for payroll).

It is recommended that applicants work with a bank where they have an existing relationship, as there are reports that many banks are not providing loans to businesses they haven’t worked with previously. Borrowers may find eligible lenders through the SBA’s webpage, which brings up local financial institutions offering PPP loans.  

SEMA is also urging Congress to provide additional funding for the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for businesses that have been adversely impacted by the Coronavirus, as it is close to running out of its original $10 billion in funding. The EIDL provides loans of up to $2 million at 3.75% and is funded directly through the SBA rather than the bank. However, recent reports note that the SBA has limited initial loans under the EIDL program to $25,000 to $35,000 or less as a result of resource constraints. Loans may be used to retain employees, address interrupted supply chains, make rent or mortgage payments and pay other bills. The first $10,000 of the loan is a grant that does not need to be repaid. If a company later receives a PPP loan, the grant will be applied to amounts forgiven under the PPP loan.

For more information on PPP, EIDL, and other federal programs related to Covid-19, check out SEMA’s resources at www.sema.org/coronavirus.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Jason Sakurai

This week’s SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Volunteer Spotlight features Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing. Awarded TORA Influencer of the Year at last year’s SEMA Show, Sakurai contributes to the council as an automotive journalist, focusing 100% on trucks, SUVs and off-road vehicles.

Sakurai has been an editor and contributor to automotive enthusiast titles in various print and online publications. His insights into the auto industry can be found in business publications and feature stories for enthusiast magazines both in the United States and abroad. It’s volunteers like Jason who help keep the industry and SEMA members informed and connected.

Find out what advice Sakurai has for TORA members:

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?

Jason Sakurai: I've been involved with trucks since I worked at Four Wheeler with John Stewart, Peter MacGillivray, Stuart Bourdon, Bruce Smith, Jimmy Nylund and the Wescotts. Who wouldn't be inspired among all that creative energy?

I worked with Off Road Industry magazine, did PR for Transamerican Manufacturing Group and for Rigid Industries, and I continue to work in this segment of the industry because it suits my lifestyle.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA? How has it or will impact you?

JS: Having helped create a committee that became a SEMA council, and then as that council’s chairman, I was deeply involved. When I wanted to re-engage, TORA was the best fit, a forward-thinking group that's not only good for my business, but it has also provided an opportunity to give back to our industry. I like getting more companies involved, growing our network and seeing everyone succeed.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?

JS: Hone your skills, whether you're a welder making sliders or a salesperson moving wheels and tires. Follow the example of industry leaders, pay attention to what they do that makes a difference and incorporate it into what you're doing. Innovation is important, but so is consistency and integrity. Be kind, work well with others and help out when you can.

SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?

JS: My dream rig? It changes from something new like a Tacoma or Ranger, to an old FJ with an updated drivetrain. On any weekend, you’ll find me either on a trail somewhere or at an event.

By Ashley Reyes

Jason Sakurai

This week’s SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Volunteer Spotlight features Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing. Awarded TORA Influencer of the Year at last year’s SEMA Show, Sakurai contributes to the council as an automotive journalist, focusing 100% on trucks, SUVs and off-road vehicles.

Sakurai has been an editor and contributor to automotive enthusiast titles in various print and online publications. His insights into the auto industry can be found in business publications and feature stories for enthusiast magazines both in the United States and abroad. It’s volunteers like Jason who help keep the industry and SEMA members informed and connected.

Find out what advice Sakurai has for TORA members:

SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?

Jason Sakurai: I've been involved with trucks since I worked at Four Wheeler with John Stewart, Peter MacGillivray, Stuart Bourdon, Bruce Smith, Jimmy Nylund and the Wescotts. Who wouldn't be inspired among all that creative energy?

I worked with Off Road Industry magazine, did PR for Transamerican Manufacturing Group and for Rigid Industries, and I continue to work in this segment of the industry because it suits my lifestyle.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA? How has it or will impact you?

JS: Having helped create a committee that became a SEMA council, and then as that council’s chairman, I was deeply involved. When I wanted to re-engage, TORA was the best fit, a forward-thinking group that's not only good for my business, but it has also provided an opportunity to give back to our industry. I like getting more companies involved, growing our network and seeing everyone succeed.

SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?

JS: Hone your skills, whether you're a welder making sliders or a salesperson moving wheels and tires. Follow the example of industry leaders, pay attention to what they do that makes a difference and incorporate it into what you're doing. Innovation is important, but so is consistency and integrity. Be kind, work well with others and help out when you can.

SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?

JS: My dream rig? It changes from something new like a Tacoma or Ranger, to an old FJ with an updated drivetrain. On any weekend, you’ll find me either on a trail somewhere or at an event.

By Gavin Knapp

Between April 1–7, 2020, SEMA conducted a survey of more than 2,000 people employed in the specialty-equipment industry. While this is a difficult time for all aspects of our industry, manufacturers and retailers in the specialty-equipment market continue to persevere and do business.

Manufacturers and retailers are maintaining a positive outlook on the situation, with the vast majority believing that their businesses will get through this short-term impact.

Most manufacturing facilities and retail stores remain open across the country. Nearly three-quarters of manufacturers and retailers have not closed any of their sites during this time.

Despite being open, overall manufacturer and retail sales have been affected. The initial shock has been harder for retailers, as consumers have remained at home because of lockdown procedures. This may only be felt short-term and should improve as consumers become more confident and the country begins to open up.

By Gavin Knapp

Between April 1–7, 2020, SEMA conducted a survey of more than 2,000 people employed in the specialty-equipment industry. While this is a difficult time for all aspects of our industry, manufacturers and retailers in the specialty-equipment market continue to persevere and do business.

Manufacturers and retailers are maintaining a positive outlook on the situation, with the vast majority believing that their businesses will get through this short-term impact.

Most manufacturing facilities and retail stores remain open across the country. Nearly three-quarters of manufacturers and retailers have not closed any of their sites during this time.

Despite being open, overall manufacturer and retail sales have been affected. The initial shock has been harder for retailers, as consumers have remained at home because of lockdown procedures. This may only be felt short-term and should improve as consumers become more confident and the country begins to open up.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) is the longtime U.S. Senate co-chair of the SEMA-supported Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. For him, turning wrenches is all about one thing—family. When he’s not in Washington, D.C., Sen. Tester and his son, Shon, can be found on their family’s Montana farm working on one of their many collector cars. Included in their collection is a Ford Model T, Ford Model A, ’38 Chevy, ’48–’53 Willy’s Jeep, ’56 Buick Century, ’55 Chevy Stepside pickup and ’70 Buick Electra. Find out more information on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. 

Watch the video below to learn more about Senator Tester, an advocate for the Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act. Send a letter asking your legislator to support the RPM Act and protect the future of motorsports.