SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

Collaboration With NIADA Brings Added Exposure to Restyling Sector

PRO is partnering with NIADA to expose independent dealerships to accessory programs.

Independent automobile dealerships have a new resource to help them connect with restylers and aftermarket accessory manufacturers. To help dealers understand the restyling industry, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) collaborated with the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) to produce videos that expose its membership of more than 17,000 independent dealerships to the incredible diversity of products and services available through the aftermarket.

Through a mobile-friendly web portal, dealers can see the appeal and ease of offering aftermarket accessories. By connecting NIADA dealers with the hundreds of PRO members around the country, the collaboration of the two organizations will improve business relationships and profits for both sectors. Visit www.niada.tv for additional information.

Industry Awards Reception

The annual PRO awards reception will take place at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino on the third-floor pool deck from 5:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. The event’s main goal is to recognize industry leaders and provide a premier networking opportunity for restylers at the SEMA Show. The awards will be presented to honor influential leaders in the restyling industry, as nominated and voted upon by the general membership of the council.

PRO Happy Hour

SEMA Show attendees can take a mid-week break by mingling with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors and learning more about the council at a PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 4, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at the PRO booth #12561, in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). Dozens of PRO members will be on hand to share what the council has to offer, discuss the group’s long-term goals and network with peers and colleagues in the industry.

General Membership Meeting

For members who have joined the council recently or who just want to stay in the know, a PRO general membership meeting will be held Thursday, November 5, providing another chance to connect over breakfast. Join the council leadership from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in LVCC room N234 to learn more about the group’s focus for the next year and beyond.

PRO-Powered Seminars

Education remains an important initiative to PRO. Three seminars in the SEMA Education Auto Dealer Track will feature panelists who work for PRO-member companies. The topics listed below will be especially important for restylers:

Car Dealer Stories: Unfiltered Truths About Operating a Profitable Accessory Program

When: Wednesday, November 4, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N254
Learn why savvy new-car and independent dealers rely on accessorizing to speed inventory turns, build a strong dealership identity and generate faster sales for greater profits by tapping into the $36-billion market for automotive accessories. Discover how to outmaneuver the competition by offering aftermarket products that deliver valid options for consumers in terms of superior appearance, performance, quality and value.

Enhancing the Consumer Experience: A New Approach to Dealership Profit Centers

When: Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, room N252
Fine-tune your accessory sales strategy to heighten customer satisfaction and build high-margin profit centers throughout your dealership. Learn how consistently featuring accessorized vehicles attracts new buyers, builds brand loyalty and enhances your customers’ ownership and driving experience.

Accessory Resources for New- and Used-Vehicle Dealers

When: Thursday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N252
Discover the key steps to implementing a successful and profitable accessory program. From the importance of getting key management on board to educating and training sales personnel on the benefits of selling accessorized vehicles to building partnerships with accessory providers, this session delivers the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Separate from the Auto Dealer Track but still a topic near and dear to restylers’ hearts:

The Art of Selling Car-Dealer Direct: What You Need to Know

When: Thursday, November 5, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N256
Want to get your foot in the door of any auto dealership? Listen and learn as a panel of experts shares tips and tactics on how to achieve positive results. Learn essential elements of a sales strategy. Understand the inner workings of a new-vehicle dealership. Discover how to overcome dealer objections. TORA/PRO-member restylers and retailers who attend this interactive session will receive a complimentary electronic copy of the “PRO Sales-Training Manual: A Restyler’s Guide to Selling Dealer Direct,” which is a $149 value.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

Collaboration With NIADA Brings Added Exposure to Restyling Sector

PRO is partnering with NIADA to expose independent dealerships to accessory programs.

Independent automobile dealerships have a new resource to help them connect with restylers and aftermarket accessory manufacturers. To help dealers understand the restyling industry, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) collaborated with the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) to produce videos that expose its membership of more than 17,000 independent dealerships to the incredible diversity of products and services available through the aftermarket.

Through a mobile-friendly web portal, dealers can see the appeal and ease of offering aftermarket accessories. By connecting NIADA dealers with the hundreds of PRO members around the country, the collaboration of the two organizations will improve business relationships and profits for both sectors. Visit www.niada.tv for additional information.

Industry Awards Reception

The annual PRO awards reception will take place at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino on the third-floor pool deck from 5:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. The event’s main goal is to recognize industry leaders and provide a premier networking opportunity for restylers at the SEMA Show. The awards will be presented to honor influential leaders in the restyling industry, as nominated and voted upon by the general membership of the council.

PRO Happy Hour

SEMA Show attendees can take a mid-week break by mingling with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors and learning more about the council at a PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 4, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at the PRO booth #12561, in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). Dozens of PRO members will be on hand to share what the council has to offer, discuss the group’s long-term goals and network with peers and colleagues in the industry.

General Membership Meeting

For members who have joined the council recently or who just want to stay in the know, a PRO general membership meeting will be held Thursday, November 5, providing another chance to connect over breakfast. Join the council leadership from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in LVCC room N234 to learn more about the group’s focus for the next year and beyond.

PRO-Powered Seminars

Education remains an important initiative to PRO. Three seminars in the SEMA Education Auto Dealer Track will feature panelists who work for PRO-member companies. The topics listed below will be especially important for restylers:

Car Dealer Stories: Unfiltered Truths About Operating a Profitable Accessory Program

When: Wednesday, November 4, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N254
Learn why savvy new-car and independent dealers rely on accessorizing to speed inventory turns, build a strong dealership identity and generate faster sales for greater profits by tapping into the $36-billion market for automotive accessories. Discover how to outmaneuver the competition by offering aftermarket products that deliver valid options for consumers in terms of superior appearance, performance, quality and value.

Enhancing the Consumer Experience: A New Approach to Dealership Profit Centers

When: Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, room N252
Fine-tune your accessory sales strategy to heighten customer satisfaction and build high-margin profit centers throughout your dealership. Learn how consistently featuring accessorized vehicles attracts new buyers, builds brand loyalty and enhances your customers’ ownership and driving experience.

Accessory Resources for New- and Used-Vehicle Dealers

When: Thursday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N252
Discover the key steps to implementing a successful and profitable accessory program. From the importance of getting key management on board to educating and training sales personnel on the benefits of selling accessorized vehicles to building partnerships with accessory providers, this session delivers the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Separate from the Auto Dealer Track but still a topic near and dear to restylers’ hearts:

The Art of Selling Car-Dealer Direct: What You Need to Know

When: Thursday, November 5, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N256
Want to get your foot in the door of any auto dealership? Listen and learn as a panel of experts shares tips and tactics on how to achieve positive results. Learn essential elements of a sales strategy. Understand the inner workings of a new-vehicle dealership. Discover how to overcome dealer objections. TORA/PRO-member restylers and retailers who attend this interactive session will receive a complimentary electronic copy of the “PRO Sales-Training Manual: A Restyler’s Guide to Selling Dealer Direct,” which is a $149 value.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

Collaboration With NIADA Brings Added Exposure to Restyling Sector

PRO is partnering with NIADA to expose independent dealerships to accessory programs.

Independent automobile dealerships have a new resource to help them connect with restylers and aftermarket accessory manufacturers. To help dealers understand the restyling industry, the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) collaborated with the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) to produce videos that expose its membership of more than 17,000 independent dealerships to the incredible diversity of products and services available through the aftermarket.

Through a mobile-friendly web portal, dealers can see the appeal and ease of offering aftermarket accessories. By connecting NIADA dealers with the hundreds of PRO members around the country, the collaboration of the two organizations will improve business relationships and profits for both sectors. Visit www.niada.tv for additional information.

Industry Awards Reception

The annual PRO awards reception will take place at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino on the third-floor pool deck from 5:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. The event’s main goal is to recognize industry leaders and provide a premier networking opportunity for restylers at the SEMA Show. The awards will be presented to honor influential leaders in the restyling industry, as nominated and voted upon by the general membership of the council.

PRO Happy Hour

SEMA Show attendees can take a mid-week break by mingling with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors and learning more about the council at a PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 4, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at the PRO booth #12561, in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). Dozens of PRO members will be on hand to share what the council has to offer, discuss the group’s long-term goals and network with peers and colleagues in the industry.

General Membership Meeting

For members who have joined the council recently or who just want to stay in the know, a PRO general membership meeting will be held Thursday, November 5, providing another chance to connect over breakfast. Join the council leadership from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in LVCC room N234 to learn more about the group’s focus for the next year and beyond.

PRO-Powered Seminars

Education remains an important initiative to PRO. Three seminars in the SEMA Education Auto Dealer Track will feature panelists who work for PRO-member companies. The topics listed below will be especially important for restylers:

Car Dealer Stories: Unfiltered Truths About Operating a Profitable Accessory Program

When: Wednesday, November 4, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N254
Learn why savvy new-car and independent dealers rely on accessorizing to speed inventory turns, build a strong dealership identity and generate faster sales for greater profits by tapping into the $36-billion market for automotive accessories. Discover how to outmaneuver the competition by offering aftermarket products that deliver valid options for consumers in terms of superior appearance, performance, quality and value.

Enhancing the Consumer Experience: A New Approach to Dealership Profit Centers

When: Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, room N252
Fine-tune your accessory sales strategy to heighten customer satisfaction and build high-margin profit centers throughout your dealership. Learn how consistently featuring accessorized vehicles attracts new buyers, builds brand loyalty and enhances your customers’ ownership and driving experience.

Accessory Resources for New- and Used-Vehicle Dealers

When: Thursday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N252
Discover the key steps to implementing a successful and profitable accessory program. From the importance of getting key management on board to educating and training sales personnel on the benefits of selling accessorized vehicles to building partnerships with accessory providers, this session delivers the tools and resources you need to succeed.

Separate from the Auto Dealer Track but still a topic near and dear to restylers’ hearts:

The Art of Selling Car-Dealer Direct: What You Need to Know

When: Thursday, November 5, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Room N256
Want to get your foot in the door of any auto dealership? Listen and learn as a panel of experts shares tips and tactics on how to achieve positive results. Learn essential elements of a sales strategy. Understand the inner workings of a new-vehicle dealership. Discover how to overcome dealer objections. TORA/PRO-member restylers and retailers who attend this interactive session will receive a complimentary electronic copy of the “PRO Sales-Training Manual: A Restyler’s Guide to Selling Dealer Direct,” which is a $149 value.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ARMO Offers a Full Week at the 2015 SEMA Show

The highlight of the ARMO reception on Tuesday night of the SEMA Show is the annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. American Autowire was named the ARMO Business of the Year last year.

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) at the 2015 SEMA Show. The shared space, booth #23395, will open at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning, November 3, and will be located in Central Hall at the corner of Hot Rod Alley and Restoration Marketplace.

While each of the councils has its own initiatives and community, they share common goals and significant crossover in membership. Combining the booth space allows more volunteers to staff the area and ensures that there are always members of the select committee and other council personnel on hand to answer questions.

Six cars will also be on display at the booth. Three will represent the restoration market, with three others for the hot-rod segment. The cars were selected to showcase different trends and styles in each segment as well as to showcase up-an-coming builders and the “best of the best.”

In addition, the council booth will house a display of this year’s entries in the HRIA Builders Challenge Pinewood Drag Race, which raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. The vehicles are also placed on display and auctioned off during the HRIA Industry Awards Reception.

ARMO Reception

ARMO starts things off in earnest on Tuesday evening with its annual awards reception, which will start at 5:15 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. The highlight of the evening is the presentation of ARMO’s annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. The organization will also induct an industry leader into the ARMO Hall of Fame, should a qualified candidate be voted in.

In addition to the awards presentations, the ARMO reception provides the perfect atmosphere for networking with 200-plus restoration professionals. ARMO sells reserved tables at its reception, with proceeds benefitting the SEMA Scholarship Fund. A reserved table for 10 people is $350.

Open Meeting

The ARMO open membership meeting, to be held this year on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms, always includes interactive activities for members to share their ideas.

ARMO holds an open membership meeting in conjunction with the SEMA Show on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms. The specific room will be determined prior to the Show.

The open meeting offers a tremendous opportunity to not only hear about the latest ARMO initiatives from the select committee but also for members to provide feedback and input on challenges and opportunities in the restoration market. The meeting always includes interactive activities for the members to share their ideas.

Roundtable

ARMO will finish the week with a small-business roundtable discussion to be held Thursday, November 5, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., in room N236 of North Hall. This will be a true, interactive discussion between industry veterans and newcomers. Past roundtable topics have included manufacturers and car builders discussing quality control and return policy; how shop owners and car builders handle customer service; and the question, “what’s the next thing in restoration.”

This year’s discussion is titled “Restoration and Car Building Roundtable” and features a group of industry veterans in a discussion about challenges, opportunities and what might lie ahead in the business of restoration and car building. This is a great opportunity for members to hear from those who have made successful careers in the industry and to share their own experiences.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ARMO Offers a Full Week at the 2015 SEMA Show

The highlight of the ARMO reception on Tuesday night of the SEMA Show is the annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. American Autowire was named the ARMO Business of the Year last year.

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) at the 2015 SEMA Show. The shared space, booth #23395, will open at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning, November 3, and will be located in Central Hall at the corner of Hot Rod Alley and Restoration Marketplace.

While each of the councils has its own initiatives and community, they share common goals and significant crossover in membership. Combining the booth space allows more volunteers to staff the area and ensures that there are always members of the select committee and other council personnel on hand to answer questions.

Six cars will also be on display at the booth. Three will represent the restoration market, with three others for the hot-rod segment. The cars were selected to showcase different trends and styles in each segment as well as to showcase up-an-coming builders and the “best of the best.”

In addition, the council booth will house a display of this year’s entries in the HRIA Builders Challenge Pinewood Drag Race, which raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. The vehicles are also placed on display and auctioned off during the HRIA Industry Awards Reception.

ARMO Reception

ARMO starts things off in earnest on Tuesday evening with its annual awards reception, which will start at 5:15 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. The highlight of the evening is the presentation of ARMO’s annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. The organization will also induct an industry leader into the ARMO Hall of Fame, should a qualified candidate be voted in.

In addition to the awards presentations, the ARMO reception provides the perfect atmosphere for networking with 200-plus restoration professionals. ARMO sells reserved tables at its reception, with proceeds benefitting the SEMA Scholarship Fund. A reserved table for 10 people is $350.

Open Meeting

The ARMO open membership meeting, to be held this year on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms, always includes interactive activities for members to share their ideas.

ARMO holds an open membership meeting in conjunction with the SEMA Show on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms. The specific room will be determined prior to the Show.

The open meeting offers a tremendous opportunity to not only hear about the latest ARMO initiatives from the select committee but also for members to provide feedback and input on challenges and opportunities in the restoration market. The meeting always includes interactive activities for the members to share their ideas.

Roundtable

ARMO will finish the week with a small-business roundtable discussion to be held Thursday, November 5, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., in room N236 of North Hall. This will be a true, interactive discussion between industry veterans and newcomers. Past roundtable topics have included manufacturers and car builders discussing quality control and return policy; how shop owners and car builders handle customer service; and the question, “what’s the next thing in restoration.”

This year’s discussion is titled “Restoration and Car Building Roundtable” and features a group of industry veterans in a discussion about challenges, opportunities and what might lie ahead in the business of restoration and car building. This is a great opportunity for members to hear from those who have made successful careers in the industry and to share their own experiences.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ARMO Offers a Full Week at the 2015 SEMA Show

The highlight of the ARMO reception on Tuesday night of the SEMA Show is the annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. American Autowire was named the ARMO Business of the Year last year.

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) at the 2015 SEMA Show. The shared space, booth #23395, will open at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning, November 3, and will be located in Central Hall at the corner of Hot Rod Alley and Restoration Marketplace.

While each of the councils has its own initiatives and community, they share common goals and significant crossover in membership. Combining the booth space allows more volunteers to staff the area and ensures that there are always members of the select committee and other council personnel on hand to answer questions.

Six cars will also be on display at the booth. Three will represent the restoration market, with three others for the hot-rod segment. The cars were selected to showcase different trends and styles in each segment as well as to showcase up-an-coming builders and the “best of the best.”

In addition, the council booth will house a display of this year’s entries in the HRIA Builders Challenge Pinewood Drag Race, which raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. The vehicles are also placed on display and auctioned off during the HRIA Industry Awards Reception.

ARMO Reception

ARMO starts things off in earnest on Tuesday evening with its annual awards reception, which will start at 5:15 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. The highlight of the evening is the presentation of ARMO’s annual honors, including the ARMO Business of the Year, the ARMO Person of the Year and the Chairman’s awards. The organization will also induct an industry leader into the ARMO Hall of Fame, should a qualified candidate be voted in.

In addition to the awards presentations, the ARMO reception provides the perfect atmosphere for networking with 200-plus restoration professionals. ARMO sells reserved tables at its reception, with proceeds benefitting the SEMA Scholarship Fund. A reserved table for 10 people is $350.

Open Meeting

The ARMO open membership meeting, to be held this year on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms, always includes interactive activities for members to share their ideas.

ARMO holds an open membership meeting in conjunction with the SEMA Show on Wednesday morning, November 4, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Westgate Conference rooms. The specific room will be determined prior to the Show.

The open meeting offers a tremendous opportunity to not only hear about the latest ARMO initiatives from the select committee but also for members to provide feedback and input on challenges and opportunities in the restoration market. The meeting always includes interactive activities for the members to share their ideas.

Roundtable

ARMO will finish the week with a small-business roundtable discussion to be held Thursday, November 5, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., in room N236 of North Hall. This will be a true, interactive discussion between industry veterans and newcomers. Past roundtable topics have included manufacturers and car builders discussing quality control and return policy; how shop owners and car builders handle customer service; and the question, “what’s the next thing in restoration.”

This year’s discussion is titled “Restoration and Car Building Roundtable” and features a group of industry veterans in a discussion about challenges, opportunities and what might lie ahead in the business of restoration and car building. This is a great opportunity for members to hear from those who have made successful careers in the industry and to share their own experiences.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

Winter Activities for Motorsports Parts Manufacturers

Motorsports slows down by November, but members of the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) will be just hitting their stride. They’ll be exhibiting at the SEMA Show then hitting the Performance Racing Industry show in Indianapolis December 10–12, and 100 lucky members will follow up by participating in the Media Trade Conference January 26–28, 2016, in Santa Ana, California.

At the SEMA Show

In addition to three days of valuable meetings between manufacturers and media, a highlight of the Media Trade Conference is the presentation of the Robert E. Petersen Media award at the Tuesday Media reception. John DiBartolomeo, editor of Drag Racing Scene magazine, received the 2015 award. DiBartolomeo has been a longtime supporter of MPMC, volunteering as its “official” photographer at industry events for many years.

There will be two educational sessions at the SEMA Show that should be of special interest to MPMC members, and Gene Zelek will present both of them. Zelek is the co-chair of the antitrust and trade regulation group for Freeborn & Peters LLP, and both sessions concern pricing.

Topic One: Curbing Resale Price Erosion in the Automotive Aftermarket—Everything You Always Wanted to Know But Didn’t Know Who to Ask

When: Monday, November 2, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Where: LVCC, Upper North Hall, Room N253
Synopsis: Consolidating distribution, the growth in big-box retailing and the explosion of online sales have caused corrosive price competition among traditional resellers in the automotive aftermarket and those with lower costs of doing business. Those trends have led to resale price erosion that jeopardizes brand equity, consumer service and reseller viability. In a realistic, no-nonsense presentation, Gene Zelek will discuss various lawful approaches that can be taken to prevent or manage this situation, as well as which alternatives work best in particular circumstances. He will also highlight recent developments and innovative options.

Topic Two: Addressing the Mess in Resale Pricing—A Practical Panel Discussion

When: Monday, November 2, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: LVCC, Upper North Hall, Room N253
Synopsis: Resale price erosion affects every level of distribution, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors and both brick-and-mortar and online dealers and retailers. With this in mind, this interactive discussion includes a knowledgeable and sometimes provocative representative from each of the primary stakeholders to talk about the key issues, the actions often taken or ignored, and the effects on the market and the players. Attendees are encouraged to participate with their own questions and comments.

At the PRI Show

MPMC will hold an open membership meeting on Wednesday, December 9, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The feature attraction will be an interactive discussion on current issues facing the motorsports parts manufacturing community.

In addition, the popular “New Products in the Fast Lane” product seminars will now be held on Thursday, December 10, the first day of the show, rather than on set-up day Wednesday. The idea behind the changes is to bring new-product information to more attendees. Nine manufacturers will take part in three simultaneous 30-minutes sessions (three manufacturers in each). Admission is free to all PRI attendees. The participating manufacturers were being determined at press time.

In addition to the product seminars, the MPMC small-business seminar series continues on Thursday, and then the MPMC Hall of Fame induction reception will take place on Friday evening, December 11, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. The MPMC Hall of Fame was founded in 2010 to honor those who have helped shape the motorsports parts manufacturing segment. A list of past MPMC honorees can be found on the council’s webpage, www.sema.org/mpmc.

Media Trade Conference

As the year ends symbolically for MPMC members with the PRI show, the new year begins with the Media Trade Conference. Every January, the conference takes place at an Embassy Suites in Southern California, where 100 MPMC members set up meeting space in their own individual suites and host 30-minute meetings with journalists.

Key business executives ranging from company owners, presidents and marketing staff to R&D experts and technical experts set up the suites, and members of the media are invited to sign up for private, uninterrupted appointments. During the meetings, the editors learn in-depth details about each company and its products. Manufacturer registration for the 2016 event is now closed, but media may continue to register through date of the event.

Watch for details about the MPMC 2017 conference through SEMA eNews. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690 or via e-mail at jimsk@sema.org.