Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:28

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

 
Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance.  
   
After 48 years of selling performance parts and high-end automotive accessories on the Queensway in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance. The company reported that the new location has a showroom equal to the size of its old building, allowing the company to have more products on display rather than stored in the warehouse. Performance Improvements, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; 416-259-9656.

Performance Automatic Inc. relocated to a new and larger facility to accommodate its growing manufacturing and sales operations. The company now has specified areas for the dyno, teardown, warehousing, packaging, building and shipping. The company’s new address is 5119 Pegasus Ct., Ste. F, Frederick, MD 21704; phone: 240-439-4650; fax: 240-439-4873.

Martin & Co. hired Kevin Shaw as its director of public relations and social marketing. Shaw served as associate editor of Mopar Muscle and Corvette Fever magazines, editor of Personal Watercraft Illustrated and senior editor of several of powerTV Media’s online-only digital publications, such as Street Legal TV, LSXTV, Chevy Hardcore and Rod Authority. The company said that Shaw’s keen understanding of automotive culture and its brands allows him the ability to create compelling content for traditional media and PR as well as websites, social media sites and mobile applications. Martin & Co. Advertising, Whites Creek, TN; 615/876-1822.

Meyer Distributing announced a new cross-dock location in Little Rock, Arkansas. The new addition will have a direct feed from the company’s hub in Jasper, Indiana, which houses more than 50,000 square feet of inventory. “The addition of the Little Rock cross-dock enhances our ability to offer logistical services throughout the region,” said Jason Braun, executive vice president of Meyer Distributing. Meyer Distributing, Jasper, IN; 800-MEYERUSA.

ICON/TLC is celebrating 16 years in business in 2012 and opened a new location in Chatsworth, California, about 14 miles from its previous location. The company announced that it is looking forward to increased capacity and providing customers with a wider range of services. The address of the new location is 9601 Lurine Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311. TLC phone: 818-280-3330. ICON phone: 818-280-3333.

  Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30.
   
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30. Brian has been with the CATA for 19 years. Brian is also the longtime host of the “Drive Chicago” radio show heard on WLS radio 890 AM and will continue in that role. Mark Bilek, currently the Internet director for CATA, assumed Brian’s duties.

Wizards Products hired Harris Rabren as national sales manager and John Darlington as business development manager for the company’s automotive products group. Wizards reported that Rabren has extensive experience in the paint, body and equipment (PBE) industry, which includes roles with ITW Evercoat, Sherwin-Williams and DeVilbiss. Darlington has 25 years of PBE sales experience and a proven ability to develop new markets using his refinish industry knowledge. Wizards Products, Hanover, MN; 800-356-7223.

The Justice Brothers Inc. was inducted into the Dry Lakes Racing Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place during the 19th Annual “Gas Up” and dry-lakes racing ceremony at Mendenhall Museum in Buellton, California, in April. The sponsor, Gold Coast Roadster & Racing Club, solicited votes from 12 Southern California Timing Association clubs, the Bonneville-Mirage dry lakes 200-mph club, current Hall of Fame members and the USFRA and ECTA associations. Justice Brothers, Duarte, CA; 626-359-9174.

Direct Lift, the official lift of Barrett-Jackson Auctions, is giving away a trip for two to the Las Vegas auction on September 20–22. One winner and a guest will be flown to Las Vegas to attend. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, auction tickets and spending money. Full details and contest rules are available through the Direct Lift Facebook page at www.facebook.com/directlift. The sweepstakes ends August 15.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE) launched a new line of pink merchandise in support of breast cancer awareness. The merchandise features the LPE logo and pink ribbon design and includes pink tie-dye T-shirts, baseball hats with pink rhinestones and custom pink lanyards. Lingenfelter will donate $5 from each purchase to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, Decatur, IN; 260-724-2552.

Ohio Technical College and Edelbrock celebrated the May grand opening of The Edelbrock Performance Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. According to the college, the academy will provide students with the skills necessary to efficiently increase a vehicle’s performance through planning, installation and modification of high-performance engine components. The 12-week, 300-hour course consists of nine different training modules covering intake manifolds and carburetor design, cams and lifters, cylinder heads, computer tuning, fuel injection and more. Ohio Technical College, Cleveland, OH; 800-322-7000. Edelbrock, Torrance, CA; 310-781-2222.

 

Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.
Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.

   
Scosche Industries
named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management. The company reported that Kemmerer brings an extensive background of market analysis and product development strategies to Scosche and that the hire reaffirms its ongoing dedication to the automotive aftermarket and will enhance the company’s current team of aftermarket professionals. Kemmerer will oversee the car-audio product development and technical support teams and work closely with the marketing and sales teams to develop targeted marketing strategies and ensure sell-through. Scosche Industries, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-4450.

The Pep Boys expanded its business with the formal re-launch of the company’s dedicated fleet services program. Pep Boys announced that the same wide variety of services that retail customers enjoy will carry over to the fleet services program and help business owners and fleet administrators manage the maintenance and repair of their fleets easily and efficiently. The fleet program has ASE-certified technicians at each location to provide routine maintenance. Pep Boys, Philadelphia, PA; 215-430-9217.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels was named the official tire sponsor of the 2012 Carlisle Truck Nationals, to be held August 3–5 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The show features more than 2,000 custom trucks, SUVs, 4x4s, vans, big rigs and classic trucks. Ed Scholly, associate director of Carlisle Events stated, “We welcome Mickey Thompson to the Carlisle Truck Nationals as the official tire sponsor and hope that this is just the beginning of a long and successful relationship.” Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

SEMA member Roadwire was a winner of Facebook’s “Small Business Boost” contest. A prize of $10,000 was awarded to each of the top 10 companies that acquired the most fans on Facebook from January–April 2012. The company credited the marketing of its power convertible top for Jeep—known as myTop—for providing a boost of more than 125,000 fans in three months. Roadwire, Santa Fe Springs, CA; 951-965-6390.

JMPR Public Relations was appointed the agency of record for The Coker Group. JMPR will oversee media outreach for the Coker family of companies that includes several tire and wheel manufacturers, a bicycle company, hot rod and speed shops and a cross-country rally. JMPR is responsible for the promotion of The Coker Group and its subsidiaries, including the launch of new products and creating brand awareness with key audiences. JMPR, Woodland Hills, CA; 818-992-4353.

Source Interlink Media promoted Jeff Holt to editorial director of the company’s American Motorcycle Group, which includes Hot Bike, Baggers and Street Chopper, as well as several special-interest publications. Holt, previously editor-in-chief of Street Chopper and Baggers, will direct all editorial planning for the group and will pilot the re-launch of Hot Bike, slated for early 2013. Hot Bike editors Eric Ellis and Jordan Mastagni to Baggers. New hire John Zamora will be appointed editor of Hot Bike. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Realtruck.com hired three employees to help support its expansion: IT Helpdesk Specialist Shane Ide, Graphic Design Extraordinaire Lindsey Volker and Customer Loyalty Specialist Chris Moore. A wealth of young talent exists within North Dakota’s workforce, the company said, and it had applicants from around the region with an incredible diversity of talent. Realtruck.com, Jamestown, ND; 877-216-5446.

 

CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.

   
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager. Morley is responsible for managing an assigned portfolio of CRP’s wholesale distributor accounts by building relationships and creating sales strategies that result in continuous growth. Before joining CRP, Morley was the southeast sales manager for Valeo Service, a company that he worked with for 13 years in various sales capacities. Morley was involved with aftermarket sales of engine cooling, rotating electrical, AC compressors, transmission clutches and wiper blade products.

Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems constructed its third manufacturing plant at a new campus in South India. After its acquisition of Watts Lanka Private Limited in Sri Lanka in 2010, Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems expanded its capacity of Solid Resilient and Press On Band tires at this location, and the company plans additional capacity later this year for its Solid Skid Steer tires.

Omega Research and Development Technologies Inc. launched upgrades to its tech support installation guide website, http://www.wiresheet.com/. Website enhancements include a new “WebApp” icon for iPhone that provides quick access to the website, an exclusive Omegalink module lookup, access to full owner’s and installation guides and an improved wire lookup.

Mike Darrow, executive vice president of the Russ Darrow Group, was named president and chief operating officer of the company. Darrow assumed responsibility for the daily management of all aspects of the new-car dealerships, encompassing 23 franchises in 13 locations, along with oversight of Russ Darrow Leasing Co. Inc. and JD Byrider/CNAC. Darrow joined the company in May 1990 as a sales associate. He also trained at the National Automobile Dealer Association’s Dealer Candidate Academy and was named executive vice president in 2000.

Standard Motor Products was honored by Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. with three awards during the company’s national sales conference in Orlando, Florida. Standard Motor Products received the Vendor of the Year, Outstanding Manpower 2011 and Outstanding Training Support 2011. Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. Director of Marketing Michael Bonacci presented the awards to Standard Motor Products’ Bob Kimbro, vice president of distribution sales, and Ken Wendling, national sales manager.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:28

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

 
Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance.  
   
After 48 years of selling performance parts and high-end automotive accessories on the Queensway in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance. The company reported that the new location has a showroom equal to the size of its old building, allowing the company to have more products on display rather than stored in the warehouse. Performance Improvements, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; 416-259-9656.

Performance Automatic Inc. relocated to a new and larger facility to accommodate its growing manufacturing and sales operations. The company now has specified areas for the dyno, teardown, warehousing, packaging, building and shipping. The company’s new address is 5119 Pegasus Ct., Ste. F, Frederick, MD 21704; phone: 240-439-4650; fax: 240-439-4873.

Martin & Co. hired Kevin Shaw as its director of public relations and social marketing. Shaw served as associate editor of Mopar Muscle and Corvette Fever magazines, editor of Personal Watercraft Illustrated and senior editor of several of powerTV Media’s online-only digital publications, such as Street Legal TV, LSXTV, Chevy Hardcore and Rod Authority. The company said that Shaw’s keen understanding of automotive culture and its brands allows him the ability to create compelling content for traditional media and PR as well as websites, social media sites and mobile applications. Martin & Co. Advertising, Whites Creek, TN; 615/876-1822.

Meyer Distributing announced a new cross-dock location in Little Rock, Arkansas. The new addition will have a direct feed from the company’s hub in Jasper, Indiana, which houses more than 50,000 square feet of inventory. “The addition of the Little Rock cross-dock enhances our ability to offer logistical services throughout the region,” said Jason Braun, executive vice president of Meyer Distributing. Meyer Distributing, Jasper, IN; 800-MEYERUSA.

ICON/TLC is celebrating 16 years in business in 2012 and opened a new location in Chatsworth, California, about 14 miles from its previous location. The company announced that it is looking forward to increased capacity and providing customers with a wider range of services. The address of the new location is 9601 Lurine Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311. TLC phone: 818-280-3330. ICON phone: 818-280-3333.

  Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30.
   
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30. Brian has been with the CATA for 19 years. Brian is also the longtime host of the “Drive Chicago” radio show heard on WLS radio 890 AM and will continue in that role. Mark Bilek, currently the Internet director for CATA, assumed Brian’s duties.

Wizards Products hired Harris Rabren as national sales manager and John Darlington as business development manager for the company’s automotive products group. Wizards reported that Rabren has extensive experience in the paint, body and equipment (PBE) industry, which includes roles with ITW Evercoat, Sherwin-Williams and DeVilbiss. Darlington has 25 years of PBE sales experience and a proven ability to develop new markets using his refinish industry knowledge. Wizards Products, Hanover, MN; 800-356-7223.

The Justice Brothers Inc. was inducted into the Dry Lakes Racing Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place during the 19th Annual “Gas Up” and dry-lakes racing ceremony at Mendenhall Museum in Buellton, California, in April. The sponsor, Gold Coast Roadster & Racing Club, solicited votes from 12 Southern California Timing Association clubs, the Bonneville-Mirage dry lakes 200-mph club, current Hall of Fame members and the USFRA and ECTA associations. Justice Brothers, Duarte, CA; 626-359-9174.

Direct Lift, the official lift of Barrett-Jackson Auctions, is giving away a trip for two to the Las Vegas auction on September 20–22. One winner and a guest will be flown to Las Vegas to attend. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, auction tickets and spending money. Full details and contest rules are available through the Direct Lift Facebook page at www.facebook.com/directlift. The sweepstakes ends August 15.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE) launched a new line of pink merchandise in support of breast cancer awareness. The merchandise features the LPE logo and pink ribbon design and includes pink tie-dye T-shirts, baseball hats with pink rhinestones and custom pink lanyards. Lingenfelter will donate $5 from each purchase to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, Decatur, IN; 260-724-2552.

Ohio Technical College and Edelbrock celebrated the May grand opening of The Edelbrock Performance Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. According to the college, the academy will provide students with the skills necessary to efficiently increase a vehicle’s performance through planning, installation and modification of high-performance engine components. The 12-week, 300-hour course consists of nine different training modules covering intake manifolds and carburetor design, cams and lifters, cylinder heads, computer tuning, fuel injection and more. Ohio Technical College, Cleveland, OH; 800-322-7000. Edelbrock, Torrance, CA; 310-781-2222.

 

Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.
Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.

   
Scosche Industries
named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management. The company reported that Kemmerer brings an extensive background of market analysis and product development strategies to Scosche and that the hire reaffirms its ongoing dedication to the automotive aftermarket and will enhance the company’s current team of aftermarket professionals. Kemmerer will oversee the car-audio product development and technical support teams and work closely with the marketing and sales teams to develop targeted marketing strategies and ensure sell-through. Scosche Industries, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-4450.

The Pep Boys expanded its business with the formal re-launch of the company’s dedicated fleet services program. Pep Boys announced that the same wide variety of services that retail customers enjoy will carry over to the fleet services program and help business owners and fleet administrators manage the maintenance and repair of their fleets easily and efficiently. The fleet program has ASE-certified technicians at each location to provide routine maintenance. Pep Boys, Philadelphia, PA; 215-430-9217.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels was named the official tire sponsor of the 2012 Carlisle Truck Nationals, to be held August 3–5 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The show features more than 2,000 custom trucks, SUVs, 4x4s, vans, big rigs and classic trucks. Ed Scholly, associate director of Carlisle Events stated, “We welcome Mickey Thompson to the Carlisle Truck Nationals as the official tire sponsor and hope that this is just the beginning of a long and successful relationship.” Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

SEMA member Roadwire was a winner of Facebook’s “Small Business Boost” contest. A prize of $10,000 was awarded to each of the top 10 companies that acquired the most fans on Facebook from January–April 2012. The company credited the marketing of its power convertible top for Jeep—known as myTop—for providing a boost of more than 125,000 fans in three months. Roadwire, Santa Fe Springs, CA; 951-965-6390.

JMPR Public Relations was appointed the agency of record for The Coker Group. JMPR will oversee media outreach for the Coker family of companies that includes several tire and wheel manufacturers, a bicycle company, hot rod and speed shops and a cross-country rally. JMPR is responsible for the promotion of The Coker Group and its subsidiaries, including the launch of new products and creating brand awareness with key audiences. JMPR, Woodland Hills, CA; 818-992-4353.

Source Interlink Media promoted Jeff Holt to editorial director of the company’s American Motorcycle Group, which includes Hot Bike, Baggers and Street Chopper, as well as several special-interest publications. Holt, previously editor-in-chief of Street Chopper and Baggers, will direct all editorial planning for the group and will pilot the re-launch of Hot Bike, slated for early 2013. Hot Bike editors Eric Ellis and Jordan Mastagni to Baggers. New hire John Zamora will be appointed editor of Hot Bike. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Realtruck.com hired three employees to help support its expansion: IT Helpdesk Specialist Shane Ide, Graphic Design Extraordinaire Lindsey Volker and Customer Loyalty Specialist Chris Moore. A wealth of young talent exists within North Dakota’s workforce, the company said, and it had applicants from around the region with an incredible diversity of talent. Realtruck.com, Jamestown, ND; 877-216-5446.

 

CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.

   
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager. Morley is responsible for managing an assigned portfolio of CRP’s wholesale distributor accounts by building relationships and creating sales strategies that result in continuous growth. Before joining CRP, Morley was the southeast sales manager for Valeo Service, a company that he worked with for 13 years in various sales capacities. Morley was involved with aftermarket sales of engine cooling, rotating electrical, AC compressors, transmission clutches and wiper blade products.

Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems constructed its third manufacturing plant at a new campus in South India. After its acquisition of Watts Lanka Private Limited in Sri Lanka in 2010, Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems expanded its capacity of Solid Resilient and Press On Band tires at this location, and the company plans additional capacity later this year for its Solid Skid Steer tires.

Omega Research and Development Technologies Inc. launched upgrades to its tech support installation guide website, http://www.wiresheet.com/. Website enhancements include a new “WebApp” icon for iPhone that provides quick access to the website, an exclusive Omegalink module lookup, access to full owner’s and installation guides and an improved wire lookup.

Mike Darrow, executive vice president of the Russ Darrow Group, was named president and chief operating officer of the company. Darrow assumed responsibility for the daily management of all aspects of the new-car dealerships, encompassing 23 franchises in 13 locations, along with oversight of Russ Darrow Leasing Co. Inc. and JD Byrider/CNAC. Darrow joined the company in May 1990 as a sales associate. He also trained at the National Automobile Dealer Association’s Dealer Candidate Academy and was named executive vice president in 2000.

Standard Motor Products was honored by Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. with three awards during the company’s national sales conference in Orlando, Florida. Standard Motor Products received the Vendor of the Year, Outstanding Manpower 2011 and Outstanding Training Support 2011. Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. Director of Marketing Michael Bonacci presented the awards to Standard Motor Products’ Bob Kimbro, vice president of distribution sales, and Ken Wendling, national sales manager.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:28

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

 
Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance.  
   
After 48 years of selling performance parts and high-end automotive accessories on the Queensway in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance. The company reported that the new location has a showroom equal to the size of its old building, allowing the company to have more products on display rather than stored in the warehouse. Performance Improvements, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; 416-259-9656.

Performance Automatic Inc. relocated to a new and larger facility to accommodate its growing manufacturing and sales operations. The company now has specified areas for the dyno, teardown, warehousing, packaging, building and shipping. The company’s new address is 5119 Pegasus Ct., Ste. F, Frederick, MD 21704; phone: 240-439-4650; fax: 240-439-4873.

Martin & Co. hired Kevin Shaw as its director of public relations and social marketing. Shaw served as associate editor of Mopar Muscle and Corvette Fever magazines, editor of Personal Watercraft Illustrated and senior editor of several of powerTV Media’s online-only digital publications, such as Street Legal TV, LSXTV, Chevy Hardcore and Rod Authority. The company said that Shaw’s keen understanding of automotive culture and its brands allows him the ability to create compelling content for traditional media and PR as well as websites, social media sites and mobile applications. Martin & Co. Advertising, Whites Creek, TN; 615/876-1822.

Meyer Distributing announced a new cross-dock location in Little Rock, Arkansas. The new addition will have a direct feed from the company’s hub in Jasper, Indiana, which houses more than 50,000 square feet of inventory. “The addition of the Little Rock cross-dock enhances our ability to offer logistical services throughout the region,” said Jason Braun, executive vice president of Meyer Distributing. Meyer Distributing, Jasper, IN; 800-MEYERUSA.

ICON/TLC is celebrating 16 years in business in 2012 and opened a new location in Chatsworth, California, about 14 miles from its previous location. The company announced that it is looking forward to increased capacity and providing customers with a wider range of services. The address of the new location is 9601 Lurine Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311. TLC phone: 818-280-3330. ICON phone: 818-280-3333.

  Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30.
   
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30. Brian has been with the CATA for 19 years. Brian is also the longtime host of the “Drive Chicago” radio show heard on WLS radio 890 AM and will continue in that role. Mark Bilek, currently the Internet director for CATA, assumed Brian’s duties.

Wizards Products hired Harris Rabren as national sales manager and John Darlington as business development manager for the company’s automotive products group. Wizards reported that Rabren has extensive experience in the paint, body and equipment (PBE) industry, which includes roles with ITW Evercoat, Sherwin-Williams and DeVilbiss. Darlington has 25 years of PBE sales experience and a proven ability to develop new markets using his refinish industry knowledge. Wizards Products, Hanover, MN; 800-356-7223.

The Justice Brothers Inc. was inducted into the Dry Lakes Racing Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place during the 19th Annual “Gas Up” and dry-lakes racing ceremony at Mendenhall Museum in Buellton, California, in April. The sponsor, Gold Coast Roadster & Racing Club, solicited votes from 12 Southern California Timing Association clubs, the Bonneville-Mirage dry lakes 200-mph club, current Hall of Fame members and the USFRA and ECTA associations. Justice Brothers, Duarte, CA; 626-359-9174.

Direct Lift, the official lift of Barrett-Jackson Auctions, is giving away a trip for two to the Las Vegas auction on September 20–22. One winner and a guest will be flown to Las Vegas to attend. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, auction tickets and spending money. Full details and contest rules are available through the Direct Lift Facebook page at www.facebook.com/directlift. The sweepstakes ends August 15.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE) launched a new line of pink merchandise in support of breast cancer awareness. The merchandise features the LPE logo and pink ribbon design and includes pink tie-dye T-shirts, baseball hats with pink rhinestones and custom pink lanyards. Lingenfelter will donate $5 from each purchase to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, Decatur, IN; 260-724-2552.

Ohio Technical College and Edelbrock celebrated the May grand opening of The Edelbrock Performance Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. According to the college, the academy will provide students with the skills necessary to efficiently increase a vehicle’s performance through planning, installation and modification of high-performance engine components. The 12-week, 300-hour course consists of nine different training modules covering intake manifolds and carburetor design, cams and lifters, cylinder heads, computer tuning, fuel injection and more. Ohio Technical College, Cleveland, OH; 800-322-7000. Edelbrock, Torrance, CA; 310-781-2222.

 

Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.
Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.

   
Scosche Industries
named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management. The company reported that Kemmerer brings an extensive background of market analysis and product development strategies to Scosche and that the hire reaffirms its ongoing dedication to the automotive aftermarket and will enhance the company’s current team of aftermarket professionals. Kemmerer will oversee the car-audio product development and technical support teams and work closely with the marketing and sales teams to develop targeted marketing strategies and ensure sell-through. Scosche Industries, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-4450.

The Pep Boys expanded its business with the formal re-launch of the company’s dedicated fleet services program. Pep Boys announced that the same wide variety of services that retail customers enjoy will carry over to the fleet services program and help business owners and fleet administrators manage the maintenance and repair of their fleets easily and efficiently. The fleet program has ASE-certified technicians at each location to provide routine maintenance. Pep Boys, Philadelphia, PA; 215-430-9217.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels was named the official tire sponsor of the 2012 Carlisle Truck Nationals, to be held August 3–5 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The show features more than 2,000 custom trucks, SUVs, 4x4s, vans, big rigs and classic trucks. Ed Scholly, associate director of Carlisle Events stated, “We welcome Mickey Thompson to the Carlisle Truck Nationals as the official tire sponsor and hope that this is just the beginning of a long and successful relationship.” Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

SEMA member Roadwire was a winner of Facebook’s “Small Business Boost” contest. A prize of $10,000 was awarded to each of the top 10 companies that acquired the most fans on Facebook from January–April 2012. The company credited the marketing of its power convertible top for Jeep—known as myTop—for providing a boost of more than 125,000 fans in three months. Roadwire, Santa Fe Springs, CA; 951-965-6390.

JMPR Public Relations was appointed the agency of record for The Coker Group. JMPR will oversee media outreach for the Coker family of companies that includes several tire and wheel manufacturers, a bicycle company, hot rod and speed shops and a cross-country rally. JMPR is responsible for the promotion of The Coker Group and its subsidiaries, including the launch of new products and creating brand awareness with key audiences. JMPR, Woodland Hills, CA; 818-992-4353.

Source Interlink Media promoted Jeff Holt to editorial director of the company’s American Motorcycle Group, which includes Hot Bike, Baggers and Street Chopper, as well as several special-interest publications. Holt, previously editor-in-chief of Street Chopper and Baggers, will direct all editorial planning for the group and will pilot the re-launch of Hot Bike, slated for early 2013. Hot Bike editors Eric Ellis and Jordan Mastagni to Baggers. New hire John Zamora will be appointed editor of Hot Bike. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Realtruck.com hired three employees to help support its expansion: IT Helpdesk Specialist Shane Ide, Graphic Design Extraordinaire Lindsey Volker and Customer Loyalty Specialist Chris Moore. A wealth of young talent exists within North Dakota’s workforce, the company said, and it had applicants from around the region with an incredible diversity of talent. Realtruck.com, Jamestown, ND; 877-216-5446.

 

CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.

   
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager. Morley is responsible for managing an assigned portfolio of CRP’s wholesale distributor accounts by building relationships and creating sales strategies that result in continuous growth. Before joining CRP, Morley was the southeast sales manager for Valeo Service, a company that he worked with for 13 years in various sales capacities. Morley was involved with aftermarket sales of engine cooling, rotating electrical, AC compressors, transmission clutches and wiper blade products.

Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems constructed its third manufacturing plant at a new campus in South India. After its acquisition of Watts Lanka Private Limited in Sri Lanka in 2010, Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems expanded its capacity of Solid Resilient and Press On Band tires at this location, and the company plans additional capacity later this year for its Solid Skid Steer tires.

Omega Research and Development Technologies Inc. launched upgrades to its tech support installation guide website, http://www.wiresheet.com/. Website enhancements include a new “WebApp” icon for iPhone that provides quick access to the website, an exclusive Omegalink module lookup, access to full owner’s and installation guides and an improved wire lookup.

Mike Darrow, executive vice president of the Russ Darrow Group, was named president and chief operating officer of the company. Darrow assumed responsibility for the daily management of all aspects of the new-car dealerships, encompassing 23 franchises in 13 locations, along with oversight of Russ Darrow Leasing Co. Inc. and JD Byrider/CNAC. Darrow joined the company in May 1990 as a sales associate. He also trained at the National Automobile Dealer Association’s Dealer Candidate Academy and was named executive vice president in 2000.

Standard Motor Products was honored by Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. with three awards during the company’s national sales conference in Orlando, Florida. Standard Motor Products received the Vendor of the Year, Outstanding Manpower 2011 and Outstanding Training Support 2011. Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. Director of Marketing Michael Bonacci presented the awards to Standard Motor Products’ Bob Kimbro, vice president of distribution sales, and Ken Wendling, national sales manager.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:28

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

 
Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance.  
   
After 48 years of selling performance parts and high-end automotive accessories on the Queensway in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Performance Improvements relocated its head office to 87 Advance Rd., four stoplights North of the Queensway, left off Islington Avenue to Advance. The company reported that the new location has a showroom equal to the size of its old building, allowing the company to have more products on display rather than stored in the warehouse. Performance Improvements, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; 416-259-9656.

Performance Automatic Inc. relocated to a new and larger facility to accommodate its growing manufacturing and sales operations. The company now has specified areas for the dyno, teardown, warehousing, packaging, building and shipping. The company’s new address is 5119 Pegasus Ct., Ste. F, Frederick, MD 21704; phone: 240-439-4650; fax: 240-439-4873.

Martin & Co. hired Kevin Shaw as its director of public relations and social marketing. Shaw served as associate editor of Mopar Muscle and Corvette Fever magazines, editor of Personal Watercraft Illustrated and senior editor of several of powerTV Media’s online-only digital publications, such as Street Legal TV, LSXTV, Chevy Hardcore and Rod Authority. The company said that Shaw’s keen understanding of automotive culture and its brands allows him the ability to create compelling content for traditional media and PR as well as websites, social media sites and mobile applications. Martin & Co. Advertising, Whites Creek, TN; 615/876-1822.

Meyer Distributing announced a new cross-dock location in Little Rock, Arkansas. The new addition will have a direct feed from the company’s hub in Jasper, Indiana, which houses more than 50,000 square feet of inventory. “The addition of the Little Rock cross-dock enhances our ability to offer logistical services throughout the region,” said Jason Braun, executive vice president of Meyer Distributing. Meyer Distributing, Jasper, IN; 800-MEYERUSA.

ICON/TLC is celebrating 16 years in business in 2012 and opened a new location in Chatsworth, California, about 14 miles from its previous location. The company announced that it is looking forward to increased capacity and providing customers with a wider range of services. The address of the new location is 9601 Lurine Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311. TLC phone: 818-280-3330. ICON phone: 818-280-3333.

  Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30.
   
Paul Brian, director of communications and spokesman for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), retired from the association on April 30. Brian has been with the CATA for 19 years. Brian is also the longtime host of the “Drive Chicago” radio show heard on WLS radio 890 AM and will continue in that role. Mark Bilek, currently the Internet director for CATA, assumed Brian’s duties.

Wizards Products hired Harris Rabren as national sales manager and John Darlington as business development manager for the company’s automotive products group. Wizards reported that Rabren has extensive experience in the paint, body and equipment (PBE) industry, which includes roles with ITW Evercoat, Sherwin-Williams and DeVilbiss. Darlington has 25 years of PBE sales experience and a proven ability to develop new markets using his refinish industry knowledge. Wizards Products, Hanover, MN; 800-356-7223.

The Justice Brothers Inc. was inducted into the Dry Lakes Racing Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place during the 19th Annual “Gas Up” and dry-lakes racing ceremony at Mendenhall Museum in Buellton, California, in April. The sponsor, Gold Coast Roadster & Racing Club, solicited votes from 12 Southern California Timing Association clubs, the Bonneville-Mirage dry lakes 200-mph club, current Hall of Fame members and the USFRA and ECTA associations. Justice Brothers, Duarte, CA; 626-359-9174.

Direct Lift, the official lift of Barrett-Jackson Auctions, is giving away a trip for two to the Las Vegas auction on September 20–22. One winner and a guest will be flown to Las Vegas to attend. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, auction tickets and spending money. Full details and contest rules are available through the Direct Lift Facebook page at www.facebook.com/directlift. The sweepstakes ends August 15.

Lingenfelter Performance Engineering (LPE) launched a new line of pink merchandise in support of breast cancer awareness. The merchandise features the LPE logo and pink ribbon design and includes pink tie-dye T-shirts, baseball hats with pink rhinestones and custom pink lanyards. Lingenfelter will donate $5 from each purchase to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, Decatur, IN; 260-724-2552.

Ohio Technical College and Edelbrock celebrated the May grand opening of The Edelbrock Performance Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. According to the college, the academy will provide students with the skills necessary to efficiently increase a vehicle’s performance through planning, installation and modification of high-performance engine components. The 12-week, 300-hour course consists of nine different training modules covering intake manifolds and carburetor design, cams and lifters, cylinder heads, computer tuning, fuel injection and more. Ohio Technical College, Cleveland, OH; 800-322-7000. Edelbrock, Torrance, CA; 310-781-2222.

 

Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.
Scosche Industries named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management.

   
Scosche Industries
named car-audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer its director of automotive product management. The company reported that Kemmerer brings an extensive background of market analysis and product development strategies to Scosche and that the hire reaffirms its ongoing dedication to the automotive aftermarket and will enhance the company’s current team of aftermarket professionals. Kemmerer will oversee the car-audio product development and technical support teams and work closely with the marketing and sales teams to develop targeted marketing strategies and ensure sell-through. Scosche Industries, Oxnard, CA; 805-486-4450.

The Pep Boys expanded its business with the formal re-launch of the company’s dedicated fleet services program. Pep Boys announced that the same wide variety of services that retail customers enjoy will carry over to the fleet services program and help business owners and fleet administrators manage the maintenance and repair of their fleets easily and efficiently. The fleet program has ASE-certified technicians at each location to provide routine maintenance. Pep Boys, Philadelphia, PA; 215-430-9217.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels was named the official tire sponsor of the 2012 Carlisle Truck Nationals, to be held August 3–5 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The show features more than 2,000 custom trucks, SUVs, 4x4s, vans, big rigs and classic trucks. Ed Scholly, associate director of Carlisle Events stated, “We welcome Mickey Thompson to the Carlisle Truck Nationals as the official tire sponsor and hope that this is just the beginning of a long and successful relationship.” Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels, Stow, OH; 330-928-9092.

SEMA member Roadwire was a winner of Facebook’s “Small Business Boost” contest. A prize of $10,000 was awarded to each of the top 10 companies that acquired the most fans on Facebook from January–April 2012. The company credited the marketing of its power convertible top for Jeep—known as myTop—for providing a boost of more than 125,000 fans in three months. Roadwire, Santa Fe Springs, CA; 951-965-6390.

JMPR Public Relations was appointed the agency of record for The Coker Group. JMPR will oversee media outreach for the Coker family of companies that includes several tire and wheel manufacturers, a bicycle company, hot rod and speed shops and a cross-country rally. JMPR is responsible for the promotion of The Coker Group and its subsidiaries, including the launch of new products and creating brand awareness with key audiences. JMPR, Woodland Hills, CA; 818-992-4353.

Source Interlink Media promoted Jeff Holt to editorial director of the company’s American Motorcycle Group, which includes Hot Bike, Baggers and Street Chopper, as well as several special-interest publications. Holt, previously editor-in-chief of Street Chopper and Baggers, will direct all editorial planning for the group and will pilot the re-launch of Hot Bike, slated for early 2013. Hot Bike editors Eric Ellis and Jordan Mastagni to Baggers. New hire John Zamora will be appointed editor of Hot Bike. Source Interlink Media, El Segundo, CA; 310-531-9900.

Realtruck.com hired three employees to help support its expansion: IT Helpdesk Specialist Shane Ide, Graphic Design Extraordinaire Lindsey Volker and Customer Loyalty Specialist Chris Moore. A wealth of young talent exists within North Dakota’s workforce, the company said, and it had applicants from around the region with an incredible diversity of talent. Realtruck.com, Jamestown, ND; 877-216-5446.

 

CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager.

   
CRP Automotive named Warren Morley as its key account manager. Morley is responsible for managing an assigned portfolio of CRP’s wholesale distributor accounts by building relationships and creating sales strategies that result in continuous growth. Before joining CRP, Morley was the southeast sales manager for Valeo Service, a company that he worked with for 13 years in various sales capacities. Morley was involved with aftermarket sales of engine cooling, rotating electrical, AC compressors, transmission clutches and wiper blade products.

Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems constructed its third manufacturing plant at a new campus in South India. After its acquisition of Watts Lanka Private Limited in Sri Lanka in 2010, Sun Tyre & Wheel Systems expanded its capacity of Solid Resilient and Press On Band tires at this location, and the company plans additional capacity later this year for its Solid Skid Steer tires.

Omega Research and Development Technologies Inc. launched upgrades to its tech support installation guide website, http://www.wiresheet.com/. Website enhancements include a new “WebApp” icon for iPhone that provides quick access to the website, an exclusive Omegalink module lookup, access to full owner’s and installation guides and an improved wire lookup.

Mike Darrow, executive vice president of the Russ Darrow Group, was named president and chief operating officer of the company. Darrow assumed responsibility for the daily management of all aspects of the new-car dealerships, encompassing 23 franchises in 13 locations, along with oversight of Russ Darrow Leasing Co. Inc. and JD Byrider/CNAC. Darrow joined the company in May 1990 as a sales associate. He also trained at the National Automobile Dealer Association’s Dealer Candidate Academy and was named executive vice president in 2000.

Standard Motor Products was honored by Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. with three awards during the company’s national sales conference in Orlando, Florida. Standard Motor Products received the Vendor of the Year, Outstanding Manpower 2011 and Outstanding Training Support 2011. Hahn Automotive Warehouse Inc. Director of Marketing Michael Bonacci presented the awards to Standard Motor Products’ Bob Kimbro, vice president of distribution sales, and Ken Wendling, national sales manager.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Sun, 07/01/2012 - 09:05

SEMA News—July 2012

INDUSTRY NEWS

2012 SEMA Show Floorplan Live

  Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com.
The new floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is now available online.  
   
The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show is live and available on the SEMA Show website. More than 1,800 exhibitors recently participated in the Priority Space Selection process, which concluded on June 22.

Exhibitors committed to the Show earlier this year when compared to the same time period in 2011, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show’s net square footage. As of the end of May, the sections that helped contribute to the growth included the Wheels & Accessories section, with a 68% increase of exhibitors; the Tools & Equipment section, with a 35% exhibitor increase; and the Racing & Performance section, with a 16% increase.

“It’s encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. “One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors.”

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the “Buy A Booth” link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come-first-served basis, subject to availability.

Prominent Custom-Car Crafters Join HRIA Builders Challenge

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
This is last year’s SEMA Pinewood Drag Races entry from Street Vizions. Check out all of the vehicles from the 2011 HRIA Builder’s Challenge at www.SEMA.org/builders-challenge.
   
Some of the nation’s best hot-rod and custom-car builders are set to create fabulous pinewood race cars as they participate in the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors. Builders applying their considerable talents to this charity endeavor include such luminaries as Troy Ladd, Jesse Greening, Troy Trepanier, Dave Lane, Rich Evans and Tim Strange, with more to come.

These selected hot-rod builders will create one-of-a-kind miniature custom cars to be raced and then auctioned to benefit the Childhelp and Victory Junction children’s charities as part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Builder’s Challenge. The rules guiding the HRIA Builder’s Challenge race are very liberal, allowing the builders to apply all of their fabrication skills and legendary ingenuity to create the miniature hot rods.

After the Pinewood Races at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California, to be held July 27, the cars will be put on display in the SEMA Cares booth at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which will be held from October 30–November 2.

You can actually own one of these collectible cars by bidding on them on eBay, November 1–10. For more information on the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races presented by eBay Motors, visit www.SEMA.org/pinewood.

SCRS Repairer Driven Education Series Returns to the SEMA Show

  Aftermarket News, Automobile Events, Automobile Trade Show
The Repairer Driven Education Series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), includes nearly two dozen sessions that will take place during the 2012 SEMA Show.
   
The Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, presented by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), is returning to the SEMA Show for the third consecutive year. With courses individually selected or crafted by the SCRS, the program includes nearly two dozen sessions taking place during the SEMA Show in Las Vegas from October 30–November 2, 2012.

The headline session, “Game Changers–Innovation Forum,” takes place November 2 and features industry leaders discussing what innovation can look like in the collision repair business and how it is becoming core to business strategy. Additional sessions explore how digital marketing, social media and related tools can increase customer retention and loyalty, and others examine how new metals used in the construction of today’s vehicles impact the repair process.

“As more and more collision repair businesses attend the SEMA Show, SCRS is pleased to partner with SEMA Show organizers to enhance the overall experience for our segment of the industry,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “The RDE series is a tremendous educational opportunity for the collision industry, providing accessible and affordable education on topics that address issues that truly matter to those working in repair facilities. We were fortunate to be able to present the series at the last two SEMA Shows and look forward to expanding the program this coming year.”

SCRS partnered with Show organizers to present the RDE program at the 2011 SEMA Show. The annual trade show, which saw nearly 30% more attendees from those representing collision repair facilities compared to the previous year, brings manufacturers of automotive parts and accessories together with industry buyers from all over the world. Manufacturers represent every segment of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including restyling, hot rod, trucks and SUVs and racing and performance.

“The SEMA Show features products from every automotive niche, which makes it the ideal venue for buyers to discover new markets,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “Because the collision market is so closely related to many of our traditional market segments, it’s become one of the fastest-growing areas and is of huge interest to our attendees.”

In addition to the SCRS RDE series, the SEMA Show will feature nearly 60 educational seminars throughout the week. To learn more about the SEMA Show, its seminars, or to see a list of exhibitors, visit www.SEMAShow.com.