Thu, 02/06/2014 - 15:08
By Jon Wyly

  sdc
SEMA members that sell or distribute products can now obtain an unlimited number of Product Data exports from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) at no cost.
  
With all the activity ramping up for the spring selling season, suppliers must not forget to diligently update their product information (including new-product releases and pricing updates) in the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) Product Information Management System (PIMS). Hundreds of resellers are now relying on the SDC for their data feeds, and supplier members have the unique ability to load new-product information any time 24x7 through an easy-to-use online interface. All new data that is added instantly goes through an automatic validation process, and is then distributed without delay to all approved data receivers.

SDC Director of Membership Jim Graven notes, "Not only is the SDC the most affordable and technically capable system for data management in our marketplace, it is also unmatched in speed-to-market of product information. Plus, since we distribute customized data exports for free to all approved SEMA-member receivers, suppliers are assured of complete, seamless distribution of their data without cost to their customers, and they never have to handle the exports themselves, saving time and expense."

The SEMA Data Co-op is now working with 280 supplier brands with more than 1.2 million part numbers, and is delivering thousands of data feeds per week to more than 300 resellers.

Not yet participating in the SDC? For information on how to join, visit the SEMA Data Co-op website or contact Jim Graven directly at 888-958-6698, ext 4 or via e-mail at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org.
Thu, 02/06/2014 - 15:08
By Jon Wyly

  sdc
SEMA members that sell or distribute products can now obtain an unlimited number of Product Data exports from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) at no cost.
  
With all the activity ramping up for the spring selling season, suppliers must not forget to diligently update their product information (including new-product releases and pricing updates) in the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) Product Information Management System (PIMS). Hundreds of resellers are now relying on the SDC for their data feeds, and supplier members have the unique ability to load new-product information any time 24x7 through an easy-to-use online interface. All new data that is added instantly goes through an automatic validation process, and is then distributed without delay to all approved data receivers.

SDC Director of Membership Jim Graven notes, "Not only is the SDC the most affordable and technically capable system for data management in our marketplace, it is also unmatched in speed-to-market of product information. Plus, since we distribute customized data exports for free to all approved SEMA-member receivers, suppliers are assured of complete, seamless distribution of their data without cost to their customers, and they never have to handle the exports themselves, saving time and expense."

The SEMA Data Co-op is now working with 280 supplier brands with more than 1.2 million part numbers, and is delivering thousands of data feeds per week to more than 300 resellers.

Not yet participating in the SDC? For information on how to join, visit the SEMA Data Co-op website or contact Jim Graven directly at 888-958-6698, ext 4 or via e-mail at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org.
Thu, 02/06/2014 - 15:00
By Della Domingo

crowd
The SEMA Show typically attracts more than 130,000 individuals from more than 125 countries, making the annual show the world's premier automotive trade event where buyers and sellers meet to do business.
Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2014 SEMA Show, set for November 4–7, 2014, in Las Vegas, may now submit applications for space. The SEMA Show typically attracts more than 130,000 individuals from more than 125 countries, making the annual show the world's premier automotive trade event where buyers and sellers meet to do business.

"Buyers from all over the world come to the SEMA Show to find automotive accessories that they can sell at their businesses," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. "As a trade-only event, these buyers represent businesses that are looking to purchase large supplies of products that their customers will demand."

Space applications are accepted any time before the event takes place in November. However, manufacturers benefit by applying before the April 11, 2014, deadline so that they can be included in the Priority Booth Space Selection process, which is when exhibitors are assigned their booth location in the Las Vegas Convention Center. After the selection process, remaining space is assigned to companies whose applications came in after the priority deadline.

Secure a space at the 2014 SEMA Show, or call 909-396-0289 or e-mail sales@sema.org.
Thu, 02/06/2014 - 15:00
By Della Domingo

crowd
The SEMA Show typically attracts more than 130,000 individuals from more than 125 countries, making the annual show the world's premier automotive trade event where buyers and sellers meet to do business.
Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2014 SEMA Show, set for November 4–7, 2014, in Las Vegas, may now submit applications for space. The SEMA Show typically attracts more than 130,000 individuals from more than 125 countries, making the annual show the world's premier automotive trade event where buyers and sellers meet to do business.

"Buyers from all over the world come to the SEMA Show to find automotive accessories that they can sell at their businesses," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. "As a trade-only event, these buyers represent businesses that are looking to purchase large supplies of products that their customers will demand."

Space applications are accepted any time before the event takes place in November. However, manufacturers benefit by applying before the April 11, 2014, deadline so that they can be included in the Priority Booth Space Selection process, which is when exhibitors are assigned their booth location in the Las Vegas Convention Center. After the selection process, remaining space is assigned to companies whose applications came in after the priority deadline.

Secure a space at the 2014 SEMA Show, or call 909-396-0289 or e-mail sales@sema.org.
Thu, 02/06/2014 - 14:14

By Linda Spencer

  toyota
The ’14 Toyota Land Cruiser will be available to SEMA members for a Measuring Session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, February 24–28, 2014.
  
Create product for the ’14 Toyota Land Cruiser—not just for your United States customers but also for markets around the world—at a Measuring Session, held in cooperation with Toyota Motor Co. February 24–28, 2014, from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m., at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

More than 6.5 million Toyota Land Cruisers—in a series reiteration—have been sold in 180 countries since they first went into production in ’51. This vehicle, currently produced in Japan and China, is popular in key markets around the world, including Russia, China, the Middle East and Australia. Below is a chart of the top 15 markets around the world for the Land Cruiser (or Land Cruiser 200 as it’s called in some countries). The number-one market for the Land Cruiser is Russia with 12,312 units sold in ’11, according to IHS data.

Motorists in the Middle East and the United States are offered V8 gasoline engines, while in Australia and Russia, the most popular model is the V8 twin turbodiesel.

The deadline to register for this Measuring Session is February 21. For more information on SEMA's international programs, visit sema.org/international or contact lindas@sema.org.

Top 15 countries for the Land Cruiser (in order of sales):
  • Russia
  • Oman
  • Australia
  • China
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Bahrain
  • Kuwait
  • Japan
  • China
  • Ukraine
  • France
  • Germany
  • United States

SEMA calculations from 2011 IHS data

Thu, 02/06/2014 - 14:14

By Linda Spencer

  toyota
The ’14 Toyota Land Cruiser will be available to SEMA members for a Measuring Session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, February 24–28, 2014.
  
Create product for the ’14 Toyota Land Cruiser—not just for your United States customers but also for markets around the world—at a Measuring Session, held in cooperation with Toyota Motor Co. February 24–28, 2014, from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m., at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

More than 6.5 million Toyota Land Cruisers—in a series reiteration—have been sold in 180 countries since they first went into production in ’51. This vehicle, currently produced in Japan and China, is popular in key markets around the world, including Russia, China, the Middle East and Australia. Below is a chart of the top 15 markets around the world for the Land Cruiser (or Land Cruiser 200 as it’s called in some countries). The number-one market for the Land Cruiser is Russia with 12,312 units sold in ’11, according to IHS data.

Motorists in the Middle East and the United States are offered V8 gasoline engines, while in Australia and Russia, the most popular model is the V8 twin turbodiesel.

The deadline to register for this Measuring Session is February 21. For more information on SEMA's international programs, visit sema.org/international or contact lindas@sema.org.

Top 15 countries for the Land Cruiser (in order of sales):
  • Russia
  • Oman
  • Australia
  • China
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Bahrain
  • Kuwait
  • Japan
  • China
  • Ukraine
  • France
  • Germany
  • United States

SEMA calculations from 2011 IHS data

Thu, 02/06/2014 - 14:02

By SEMA Editors

  race
  

Join fellow industry enthusiasts at one of two screenings of the award-winning feature documentary film presentation, "Where They Raced: Speed Demons in the City of Angels."

There has been arguably more racing history and automotive innovation in Southern California than anywhere else on the planet. This documentary film reignites fading memories with a victory lap through archival photos, rare footage and revealing interviews. Director Harry Pallenberg and host Harold Osmer will be on hand before and after the screenings to answer your questions.

Screenings:

February 9, at 1:00 p.m. at the Automobile Driving Museum, El Segundo, California

Arrive early for an opportunity to take a ride in one of the museum’s vintage cars, which include a ’36 Packard Phaeton, ’41 Cadillac Convertible and ’35 Chrysler Airflow. Make sure to ask Harry or Harold about the unique Airflow/Los Angeles connection. Screening and popcorn are free, a $5 museum donation is suggested.

February 26, at 7:00 p.m. at the Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles

Part of the $1 milkshakes and free popcorn series. Starting at 6:00 p.m., the Petersen will show off a few of the cars featured in the film, including an ’11 National that ran in the first Indy 500 ever, then moved west to race in Santa Monica. From the Petersen vault will be a ’13 Mercer that raced against the National more than 100 years ago. Also on hand will be a ’32 Roadster from Carrell Speedway and Harold's ’51 Chevy. Screening and popcorn are free but normal parking rates apply. An RSVP is required to 323-964-6370 or sscott@petersen.org.

Thu, 02/06/2014 - 13:21

SEMA News—February 2014

CHRIS KERSTING

Coming Soon: Your SEMA Account Representative

Chris Kersting, SEMA President and CEO Over the last several years, SEMA has taken steps to heighten our outreach and increase touch points with members and the industry at large. This effort has included a commitment to enhancing customer service and raising the awareness of SEMA’s high-value member benefits. We recently announced a major move that will provide our members with the best customer service possible. For the first time in 50 years, each SEMA member will now have a single, dedicated point of contact for all things SEMA.

You’ll be hearing from your new SEMA staff account representative in the months ahead. Each SEMA member will now have a motivated, knowledgeable, fulltime contact who sits directly in SEMA headquarters and communicates with the SEMA services team. Your SEMA account representative will also be the same person who will handle all your SEMA Show needs, from booth-space sales to credentialing and everything between.

The matter of having dedicated in-house account representatives is more important to accomplishing the SEMA mission than it may first appear. SEMA exists solely for the purpose of helping our member companies succeed and prosper. Producing the SEMA Show is perhaps the most visible way we do that. Historically, our trusted partner, ConvExx Show Management, has been the touch point for thousands of contacts annually with SEMA members on Show-related matters. By bringing Show sales together with member services in-house at SEMA, our members will now experience a customer-service relationship that includes all that SEMA has to offer.

In addition to their Show expertise, account reps will be well versed in SEMA benefits and activities and will be available year-round. Got a question about your membership? Don’t understand how to tap into Tech Transfer or make an appointment at the SEMA Garage? Wondering who to talk to about the SEMA Data Co-op or how to attend a Town Hall Meeting? Now you can call one person, and your rep will provide the service you need. If your SEMA rep doesn’t have the answer, he or she will know who does. We expect the net result to be greater awareness and value received for your SEMA membership.

A few words about the ConvExx team: For three-plus decades, Chuck Schwartz and his team have done an outstanding job in helping us produce the SEMA Show. They have played an important role in the success and value provided by the SEMA Show today. That good work is greatly appreciated. Evolving and improving the association now means a change—and, in this case, saying thanks for a job well done. Thank you, Chuck Schwartz and ConvExx—you served our SEMA members and the Show so very well.

Our entire team is excited about the opportunities this new in-house capability means for our members, and we look forward to building even stronger relationships with each of you. When your SEMA staff account rep calls, you’ll likely find that you have more to discuss than ever. And please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts about your membership, the Show or other year-round association benefits. Your rep will be there to help.

Thu, 02/06/2014 - 13:21

SEMA News—February 2014

CHRIS KERSTING

Coming Soon: Your SEMA Account Representative

Chris Kersting, SEMA President and CEO Over the last several years, SEMA has taken steps to heighten our outreach and increase touch points with members and the industry at large. This effort has included a commitment to enhancing customer service and raising the awareness of SEMA’s high-value member benefits. We recently announced a major move that will provide our members with the best customer service possible. For the first time in 50 years, each SEMA member will now have a single, dedicated point of contact for all things SEMA.

You’ll be hearing from your new SEMA staff account representative in the months ahead. Each SEMA member will now have a motivated, knowledgeable, fulltime contact who sits directly in SEMA headquarters and communicates with the SEMA services team. Your SEMA account representative will also be the same person who will handle all your SEMA Show needs, from booth-space sales to credentialing and everything between.

The matter of having dedicated in-house account representatives is more important to accomplishing the SEMA mission than it may first appear. SEMA exists solely for the purpose of helping our member companies succeed and prosper. Producing the SEMA Show is perhaps the most visible way we do that. Historically, our trusted partner, ConvExx Show Management, has been the touch point for thousands of contacts annually with SEMA members on Show-related matters. By bringing Show sales together with member services in-house at SEMA, our members will now experience a customer-service relationship that includes all that SEMA has to offer.

In addition to their Show expertise, account reps will be well versed in SEMA benefits and activities and will be available year-round. Got a question about your membership? Don’t understand how to tap into Tech Transfer or make an appointment at the SEMA Garage? Wondering who to talk to about the SEMA Data Co-op or how to attend a Town Hall Meeting? Now you can call one person, and your rep will provide the service you need. If your SEMA rep doesn’t have the answer, he or she will know who does. We expect the net result to be greater awareness and value received for your SEMA membership.

A few words about the ConvExx team: For three-plus decades, Chuck Schwartz and his team have done an outstanding job in helping us produce the SEMA Show. They have played an important role in the success and value provided by the SEMA Show today. That good work is greatly appreciated. Evolving and improving the association now means a change—and, in this case, saying thanks for a job well done. Thank you, Chuck Schwartz and ConvExx—you served our SEMA members and the Show so very well.

Our entire team is excited about the opportunities this new in-house capability means for our members, and we look forward to building even stronger relationships with each of you. When your SEMA staff account rep calls, you’ll likely find that you have more to discuss than ever. And please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts about your membership, the Show or other year-round association benefits. Your rep will be there to help.

Thu, 02/06/2014 - 12:38

By Zane Clark

  mcfann
Mark McFann
  

"So, You Want to be in Pictures" will provide attendees with a clear understanding of the pros and cons of getting products placed in major motion pictures. This how-to webinar, led by Mark McFann of Cast a Long Shadow, is a must-attend for anyone who ever wanted to go “Hollywood” and create an innovative marketing strategy for their business.

Learning objectives:

  • Go beyond the myths and misconceptions about product placement and get a real understanding of what it takes in terms of time, effort and expense in order to get your product/company featured in major motion pictures.
  • Learn the tactics needed to leverage your company so that you maximize impact and exposure.

Join us Thursday, February 20, at 10:00 a.m. (PST) for a webinar packed full of important information. Register now for this timely educational opportunity!

Participate live or download the webinar when it’s convenient. And remember: SEMA webinars are free to SEMA members and only $29 for non-members.

Mark McFann was vice president of sales and marketing and an owner of Royal Purple from ’02–’12. Royal Purple was successfully sold to Calumet in 2012. McFann is now a principle owner and managing director of Cast a Long Shadow, which specializes in entertainment marketing. McFann secured product placement for Royal Purple in a number of films, including "Salt," "Real Steel," "Safe Haven," "A Good Day to Die Hard" and the upcoming films "Need for Speed," "Transformers 4" and many others. Cast a Long Shadow's other clients include New Belgium Brewery, Kaiser Compressors and Feisty Spirits distillery.