SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities in the Classifieds page of SEMA.org.

By SEMA Editors

Hedges & Company, a digital marketing agency serving the automotive aftermarket, OEM parts and powersports industries, analyzed 7.7 million online user sessions and online purchases from parts and accessory websites in the United States and Canada. The analysis included retailer websites and manufacturers selling direct to consumer (DTC). In the analysis, the company gave online sales from the week of March 1 an index of 100, before wide-spread shutdowns were in place. The week of April 12-18 had an index of 140, or a 40% overall increase in online sales of parts and accessories from six weeks earlier.

The Hedges & Company analysis appears consistent with SEMA Data Co-op observations, which have seen sharp growth in reseller activity in recent weeks.

Hedges & Company broke down the analysis into OEM replacement, truck and off-road, and performance racing. Here are the comparisons of the week of April 12-18 to the week of March 1-7:

• Overall aftermarket eCommerce sales: Index of 140.3 vs. 100 the week of March 1-7.
• OEM replacement parts sales: Index of 125.4 vs. 100, the first positive week after sales declines in earlier weeks.
• Truck and off-road parts sales: Index of 157.2 vs. 100.
• Performance/racing parts sales: Index of 148.9 vs. 100, showing surprisingly strong demand considering many motorsports events are cancelled.

The Hedges press release speculates that “the arrival of tax refunds and the Federal government's stimulus payments are also helping drive online sales. Stimulus payments reached consumers last week and amounted to approximately $155 billion.”

According to Hedges, another factor contributing to the surge in online sales “appears to be a migration of buyers from Amazon. The retail giant cut back on promotion and advertising for automotive parts and accessories to focus on products related to the coronavirus crisis, such as disinfecting wipes, sprays and other health items. This may have sent consumers searching for other buying opportunities and contributed to online sales growth.”

By SEMA Editors

The majority of businesses in the specialty automotive industry continues to operate during the Coronavirus pandemic. Even with “shelter-in-place” rules in effect in many states, more than two-thirds of industry businesses have not closed any of their facilities during this time.

The findings are from a survey of SEMA-member companies conducted April 1–7. SEMA has been working to identify areas to support the aftermarket industry during the pandemic as it moves toward recovery.

“The results of this survey show the resiliency of the specialty automotive industry and how it continues to push forward, working to move past the COVID-19 disruption,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “We are using this feedback to further develop resources to help member businesses through this time of economic interruption.”

Most aftermarket industry facilities remain open under the “essential business” designation, and more than half of the industry’s employees continue to work from a company site, as a large number of production, technical, logistical and retail positions can only be done at a jobsite.  

The survey also found that most business owners maintained a positive outlook, with 87% indicating that they are “impacted short-term but will get through it.” The strength of the industry is depicted by the 82% of employees who continue working from a jobsite or from home, and by the nearly 2,000 companies that have signed up to exhibit at this year’s SEMA Show.

“The aftermarket industry and our members remain positive, and are looking forward to opening back up in the months ahead and participating in a SEMA Show that will play a key role in launching a successful 2021,” said Kersting. “Now more than ever our priority for SEMA is clear: assuring the health, safety and business continuity for our members, partners, employees and the overall industry community.”

To further assist businesses during the Coronavirus pandemic, SEMA has created a dedicated webpage, www.sema.org/coronavirus, that includes up-to-date  information about how each state defines “essential” businesses, Small Business Administration (SBA) emergency loans, paid sick and family leave, unemployment benefits and more. As developments unfold, SEMA will continue to monitor and collect information and provide updates to the site.

“It is at times like these that the power of a collective can be most beneficial,” said Kersting. “I’m optimistic that by working together, we will continue to persevere and thrive.”

For the latest updates and resources available for businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic, visit www.sema.org/coronavirus.

87% of businesses believe that the coronavirus will only have a short-term impact on their company.

Two-thirds of industry businesses have not closed any of their sites during this time.

By SEMA Editors

The majority of businesses in the specialty automotive industry continues to operate during the Coronavirus pandemic. Even with “shelter-in-place” rules in effect in many states, more than two-thirds of industry businesses have not closed any of their facilities during this time.

The findings are from a survey of SEMA-member companies conducted April 1–7. SEMA has been working to identify areas to support the aftermarket industry during the pandemic as it moves toward recovery.

“The results of this survey show the resiliency of the specialty automotive industry and how it continues to push forward, working to move past the COVID-19 disruption,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “We are using this feedback to further develop resources to help member businesses through this time of economic interruption.”

Most aftermarket industry facilities remain open under the “essential business” designation, and more than half of the industry’s employees continue to work from a company site, as a large number of production, technical, logistical and retail positions can only be done at a jobsite.  

The survey also found that most business owners maintained a positive outlook, with 87% indicating that they are “impacted short-term but will get through it.” The strength of the industry is depicted by the 82% of employees who continue working from a jobsite or from home, and by the nearly 2,000 companies that have signed up to exhibit at this year’s SEMA Show.

“The aftermarket industry and our members remain positive, and are looking forward to opening back up in the months ahead and participating in a SEMA Show that will play a key role in launching a successful 2021,” said Kersting. “Now more than ever our priority for SEMA is clear: assuring the health, safety and business continuity for our members, partners, employees and the overall industry community.”

To further assist businesses during the Coronavirus pandemic, SEMA has created a dedicated webpage, www.sema.org/coronavirus, that includes up-to-date  information about how each state defines “essential” businesses, Small Business Administration (SBA) emergency loans, paid sick and family leave, unemployment benefits and more. As developments unfold, SEMA will continue to monitor and collect information and provide updates to the site.

“It is at times like these that the power of a collective can be most beneficial,” said Kersting. “I’m optimistic that by working together, we will continue to persevere and thrive.”

For the latest updates and resources available for businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic, visit www.sema.org/coronavirus.

87% of businesses believe that the coronavirus will only have a short-term impact on their company.

Two-thirds of industry businesses have not closed any of their sites during this time.

By Ashley Reyes

Sanaz Marbley

This week’s SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) #SheIsSEMA Member Spotlight features Sanaz Marbley of JMPR Public Relations Inc., a Division of IMRE. As a professional in consumer and lifestyle PR, Marbley serves as vice president at IMRE, where she leads accounts in both automotive and personal care divisions.

Throughout her time with JMPR, Marbley has worked with numerous OEM and aftermarket clients, strengthening her skillsets and technique with each PR campaign. Her influence has led to her being featured in SEMA’s “35 under 35” list, which recognizes the industry’s most notable up-and-comers who are making a significant impact through leadership within their businesses.

Get to know more about Marbley’s involvement and success within the industry in her Q&A with SEMA and the SBN: 

SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Sanaz Marbley: Don't be afraid to change the plan. As a natural Type-A, I can be rigid at times, and when I catch myself, I must think back to this advice.

SEMA: What keeps you involved in this industry?

SM: The automotive industry has a sense of community and belonging that is almost familial. It is an industry filled with uniquely talented and passionately creative people, who can't wait to embrace you as one of their own and teach you everything there is to know about being an enthusiast.

SEMA: On a Saturday, where can you be found?

SM: Saturdays are about spending time with my husband and two kids. Whether it's a picnic in the park or a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum, it's about the time we spend together.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

SM: I am always prepared and ready to learn.

SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?

SM: George Barris. I had the pleasure of working with him several times throughout my career before he passed. Every time we spoke, he had incredible stories to tell about famous cars and famous people. He was the greatest!

Fill out this form to be a part of the #SheIsSEMA family. You will have the opportunity to be featured on SBN’s social media, SEMA eNews and be recognized on the www.sema.org/sheissema website. While there, check out other inspirational women who are leading the industry and are paving the path for future success.

Not an SBN member? Fill out this form to join today.

By Ashley Reyes

Sanaz Marbley

This week’s SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) #SheIsSEMA Member Spotlight features Sanaz Marbley of JMPR Public Relations Inc., a Division of IMRE. As a professional in consumer and lifestyle PR, Marbley serves as vice president at IMRE, where she leads accounts in both automotive and personal care divisions.

Throughout her time with JMPR, Marbley has worked with numerous OEM and aftermarket clients, strengthening her skillsets and technique with each PR campaign. Her influence has led to her being featured in SEMA’s “35 under 35” list, which recognizes the industry’s most notable up-and-comers who are making a significant impact through leadership within their businesses.

Get to know more about Marbley’s involvement and success within the industry in her Q&A with SEMA and the SBN: 

SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Sanaz Marbley: Don't be afraid to change the plan. As a natural Type-A, I can be rigid at times, and when I catch myself, I must think back to this advice.

SEMA: What keeps you involved in this industry?

SM: The automotive industry has a sense of community and belonging that is almost familial. It is an industry filled with uniquely talented and passionately creative people, who can't wait to embrace you as one of their own and teach you everything there is to know about being an enthusiast.

SEMA: On a Saturday, where can you be found?

SM: Saturdays are about spending time with my husband and two kids. Whether it's a picnic in the park or a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum, it's about the time we spend together.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

SM: I am always prepared and ready to learn.

SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?

SM: George Barris. I had the pleasure of working with him several times throughout my career before he passed. Every time we spoke, he had incredible stories to tell about famous cars and famous people. He was the greatest!

Fill out this form to be a part of the #SheIsSEMA family. You will have the opportunity to be featured on SBN’s social media, SEMA eNews and be recognized on the www.sema.org/sheissema website. While there, check out other inspirational women who are leading the industry and are paving the path for future success.

Not an SBN member? Fill out this form to join today.

By Ashley Reyes

Tom Burden

The SEMA Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN) presents a Live Chat featuring 2017 SEMA Launch Pad winner Tom Burden of Grypmat. Join Burden on ETTN’s Facebook page, Tuesday, May 5, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) as he answers your questions about research and competitive analysis in product development and what strategies he has used for continued success in his business.

Research and competitive analysis can be a great tool, but can also steer businesses away from authenticity and discourage them from taking the leap that they want to take. During the Live Chat, Burden will discuss his insight on the importance of authenticity and demonstrate how Grypmat has used research and competitive analysis to research other businesses in different industries, using his findings to put his own unique spin on his product.

In 2013, as an enlisted Air Force member, Burden struggled with his tools sliding off an F-16 fighter jet while working as a mechanic. He decided that this was a problem worth solving and began experimenting. After prototyping for three years, Burden built a product that not only solved his problem on the fighter jet but also improved the experience of mechanics around the world—the Grypmat. 

The Grypmat started in aviation, but Burden was eager to break into the automotive industry. Since winning first place at the 2017 SEMA Launch Pad competition, the Grypmat has been used by companies such as Google, NASA, and Virgin Orbit, and has been growing rapidly in DIY, boating, motorcycle and the medical industry.

To date, Burden has closed on a combo deal on “Shark Tank” with Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner and Sir Richard Branson. More than half a million Grypmats have been sold across the globe in more than 150 countries. The Grypmat has been on the cover of Time magazine for being one of the top 50 inventions of the year, and Burden has been named one of Forbes’ 30 under 30. With the Grypmat, Burden is now focusing on the automotive industry by diving into submarkets such as racing, off roading and classic cars.

Don’t miss out on your chance to communicate directly with Burden, Tuesday, May 5, at 12:00 p.m. on ETTN’s Facebook page.

By Ashley Reyes

Tom Burden

The SEMA Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN) presents a Live Chat featuring 2017 SEMA Launch Pad winner Tom Burden of Grypmat. Join Burden on ETTN’s Facebook page, Tuesday, May 5, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) as he answers your questions about research and competitive analysis in product development and what strategies he has used for continued success in his business.

Research and competitive analysis can be a great tool, but can also steer businesses away from authenticity and discourage them from taking the leap that they want to take. During the Live Chat, Burden will discuss his insight on the importance of authenticity and demonstrate how Grypmat has used research and competitive analysis to research other businesses in different industries, using his findings to put his own unique spin on his product.

In 2013, as an enlisted Air Force member, Burden struggled with his tools sliding off an F-16 fighter jet while working as a mechanic. He decided that this was a problem worth solving and began experimenting. After prototyping for three years, Burden built a product that not only solved his problem on the fighter jet but also improved the experience of mechanics around the world—the Grypmat. 

The Grypmat started in aviation, but Burden was eager to break into the automotive industry. Since winning first place at the 2017 SEMA Launch Pad competition, the Grypmat has been used by companies such as Google, NASA, and Virgin Orbit, and has been growing rapidly in DIY, boating, motorcycle and the medical industry.

To date, Burden has closed on a combo deal on “Shark Tank” with Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner and Sir Richard Branson. More than half a million Grypmats have been sold across the globe in more than 150 countries. The Grypmat has been on the cover of Time magazine for being one of the top 50 inventions of the year, and Burden has been named one of Forbes’ 30 under 30. With the Grypmat, Burden is now focusing on the automotive industry by diving into submarkets such as racing, off roading and classic cars.

Don’t miss out on your chance to communicate directly with Burden, Tuesday, May 5, at 12:00 p.m. on ETTN’s Facebook page.

By Ashley Reyes

TJ Hunt

SEMA members are invited to chat with automotive YouTube influencer TJ Hunt on the next SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) Live Chat, May 6, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) on the YEN Facebook page. Hunt, who has more than 1.6 million YouTube subscribers, is best known for his widebody Subaru BRZ build, Miley, and additional builds centered around the JDM car scene.

During the Live Chat, participants will be able to ask Hunt questions as he shares his insight and advice on becoming a social media influencer in the auto industry.

In addition to the BRZ, Hunt also owns a Mazda RX-7, MK4 Toyota Supra, MK5 Supra, Nissan 350z, Lamborghini Aventador and C8 Corvette. In his free time, he enjoys drifting his 350z, working on his clothing company (Hunt and Co.) and spending time with friends.

Hunt aspires to be one of the leading names in the automotive industry and is well on his way to doing so with his charismatic personality and inspiring mantra to Keep Moving Forward.

Mark your calendars for May 6, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), on the YEN Facebook page. Come ready with questions to tap into Hunt’s expertise.

By Ashley Reyes

TJ Hunt

SEMA members are invited to chat with automotive YouTube influencer TJ Hunt on the next SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) Live Chat, May 6, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT) on the YEN Facebook page. Hunt, who has more than 1.6 million YouTube subscribers, is best known for his widebody Subaru BRZ build, Miley, and additional builds centered around the JDM car scene.

During the Live Chat, participants will be able to ask Hunt questions as he shares his insight and advice on becoming a social media influencer in the auto industry.

In addition to the BRZ, Hunt also owns a Mazda RX-7, MK4 Toyota Supra, MK5 Supra, Nissan 350z, Lamborghini Aventador and C8 Corvette. In his free time, he enjoys drifting his 350z, working on his clothing company (Hunt and Co.) and spending time with friends.

Hunt aspires to be one of the leading names in the automotive industry and is well on his way to doing so with his charismatic personality and inspiring mantra to Keep Moving Forward.

Mark your calendars for May 6, at 12:00 p.m. (PDT), on the YEN Facebook page. Come ready with questions to tap into Hunt’s expertise.