By SEMA Editors

The Ford Ranger T6 will be available to member manufacturers at the upcoming SEMA Mega International Measuring Session..

SEMA manufacturing members are invited to the upcoming Mega International Measuring Session at the SEMA Garage during the week of October 4. Members will get a personal preview of four popular international vehicles not for sale in the United States. Participants are encouraged to gather specs, measurements and data needed to create prototypes for potential sale overseas.

The vehicles to be featured at the SEMA Mega International Measuring Session are the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger T6, Mitsubishi L200 and the UAZ Hunter.   

The registration deadline to attend the session is Thursday, October 2. For more information, contact Rachael Salazar or call 909-978-6728. 

By SEMA Editors

The Ford Ranger T6 will be available to member manufacturers at the upcoming SEMA Mega International Measuring Session..

SEMA manufacturing members are invited to the upcoming Mega International Measuring Session at the SEMA Garage during the week of October 4. Members will get a personal preview of four popular international vehicles not for sale in the United States. Participants are encouraged to gather specs, measurements and data needed to create prototypes for potential sale overseas.

The vehicles to be featured at the SEMA Mega International Measuring Session are the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger T6, Mitsubishi L200 and the UAZ Hunter.   

The registration deadline to attend the session is Thursday, October 2. For more information, contact Rachael Salazar or call 909-978-6728. 

By SEMA Editors

The Ford Ranger T6 will be available to member manufacturers at the upcoming SEMA Mega International Measuring Session..

SEMA manufacturing members are invited to the upcoming Mega International Measuring Session at the SEMA Garage during the week of October 4. Members will get a personal preview of four popular international vehicles not for sale in the United States. Participants are encouraged to gather specs, measurements and data needed to create prototypes for potential sale overseas.

The vehicles to be featured at the SEMA Mega International Measuring Session are the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger T6, Mitsubishi L200 and the UAZ Hunter.   

The registration deadline to attend the session is Thursday, October 2. For more information, contact Rachael Salazar or call 909-978-6728. 

By SEMA Editors

	SEMA research indicates that more buyers are spending money with exhibitors while at the SEMA Show, with 45% of 2013 Show buyers placing an order—a 40% increase compared to the 2012 Show.

SEMA research indicates that more buyers are spending money with exhibitors while at the SEMA Show, with 45% of 2013 Show buyers placing an order—a 40% increase compared to the 2012 Show. In addition, while not all buyers make or commit to purchases while at the Show, the overwhelming majority indicated that they will place an order with an exhibitor within the next 12 months following the Show.

Not only do buyers plan to spend money and place orders at the Show, they seek to take advantage of specials and discounts offered by exhibitors, whether it’s an existing customer or a new connection made during Show week. In fact, more than 75% of buyers attending the 2013 SEMA Show reported that they took advantage of a special or discount offered on site.

2014 Show Specials

• Autocap North America, Booth 11543 (North Hall): Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers: 15% off current pricing on all Autocap Re-Usable Service protections, such as seat covers, steering wheel covers, etc., as well as our customized printed Locking Wheel Nut Key Bags. Valid only on orders placed at the Show, November 4–7. For product information, visit booth 11543 or online at www.autocap.com.mx.

• FLITZ International Ltd., Booth 20071: Offering product demos for the run of the show, giving away free samples and offering special discounts on the entire FLITZ product line. The company is providing SEMA (Hot Buy) special packages which enable customers to get a free video monitor, free resalable products, displays, signage and all being shipped freight free within the continental United States.

• Hammerhead Armor, Booth 32199: A division of Hol-Mac Corp., Hammerhead Armor currently has front- and rear-bumper designs that cover more than 200 truck makes and models, including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Toyota, Nissan and Jeep. Attendees who visit their booth and register during the Show will be eligible to win an authorized dealer package valued at more than $2,000. For more information about Hammerhead Armor’s complete line of aftermarket bumpers and accessories, visit hammerheadarmor.com or call 855-HHTOUGH. Hammerhead Armor can also be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @hammerheadarmor.

• Leather Therapy, Booth 12472: With the purchase of $500 of mixed case Leather Therapy products, customers will receive free shipping in the continental United States. Visit booth 12472 to find out more about Leather Therapy.

• TUFTRUCK & West Coast Winch, Booth 33055: Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers. The company is offering 10% off all TUFTRUCK heavy-duty applications and West Coast Winch and accessories. Valid on all purchases made at the Show, November 4–7. Interested distributors are encouraged to visit www.TUFTRUCK.com or www.WESTCOASTWINCH.com or visit booth 33055.

• Vision Engraving & Routing Systems, Booth 10125: Vision will demonstrate deep metal engraving and parts marking for the duration of the SEMA Show. Come by, watch and get a free engraved sample. With the ability to adjust depth, speed and other key factors, you can reproduce a clean, clear marking that won't be removed. Vision has a variety of engraving and routing systems that will allow you to work with flat, cylindrical, and odd-shaped items in a wide range of materials and applications. Vision has desktop-sized machines starting at 8x10-in. and going up to a 4x8-ft. CNC router engraver. Engrave curved, flat or round surfaces in a variety of metals, such as iron, steel, brass, aluminum, gold, copper, silver and more. Vision software features auto serialization for quicker turnaround times on high-volume jobs. For more information, visit www.visionengravers.com.

• Wavetrac Differentials, Booth 23820: Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers. The company is offering an additional 10% off current pricing on all Wavetrac applications. Valid only on orders placed at the Show, November 4–7. For product information, visit booth 23820 or online at www.wavetrac.net.

Exhibitors: Reach out to more buyers prior to the Show through eNews by submitting your incentive or Show special to editors@sema.org. Be sure to include the discount or incentive being offered, as well as booth number for the 2014 Show.

By SEMA Editors

	SEMA research indicates that more buyers are spending money with exhibitors while at the SEMA Show, with 45% of 2013 Show buyers placing an order—a 40% increase compared to the 2012 Show.

SEMA research indicates that more buyers are spending money with exhibitors while at the SEMA Show, with 45% of 2013 Show buyers placing an order—a 40% increase compared to the 2012 Show. In addition, while not all buyers make or commit to purchases while at the Show, the overwhelming majority indicated that they will place an order with an exhibitor within the next 12 months following the Show.

Not only do buyers plan to spend money and place orders at the Show, they seek to take advantage of specials and discounts offered by exhibitors, whether it’s an existing customer or a new connection made during Show week. In fact, more than 75% of buyers attending the 2013 SEMA Show reported that they took advantage of a special or discount offered on site.

2014 Show Specials

• Autocap North America, Booth 11543 (North Hall): Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers: 15% off current pricing on all Autocap Re-Usable Service protections, such as seat covers, steering wheel covers, etc., as well as our customized printed Locking Wheel Nut Key Bags. Valid only on orders placed at the Show, November 4–7. For product information, visit booth 11543 or online at www.autocap.com.mx.

• FLITZ International Ltd., Booth 20071: Offering product demos for the run of the show, giving away free samples and offering special discounts on the entire FLITZ product line. The company is providing SEMA (Hot Buy) special packages which enable customers to get a free video monitor, free resalable products, displays, signage and all being shipped freight free within the continental United States.

• Hammerhead Armor, Booth 32199: A division of Hol-Mac Corp., Hammerhead Armor currently has front- and rear-bumper designs that cover more than 200 truck makes and models, including Chevy, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Toyota, Nissan and Jeep. Attendees who visit their booth and register during the Show will be eligible to win an authorized dealer package valued at more than $2,000. For more information about Hammerhead Armor’s complete line of aftermarket bumpers and accessories, visit hammerheadarmor.com or call 855-HHTOUGH. Hammerhead Armor can also be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @hammerheadarmor.

• Leather Therapy, Booth 12472: With the purchase of $500 of mixed case Leather Therapy products, customers will receive free shipping in the continental United States. Visit booth 12472 to find out more about Leather Therapy.

• TUFTRUCK & West Coast Winch, Booth 33055: Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers. The company is offering 10% off all TUFTRUCK heavy-duty applications and West Coast Winch and accessories. Valid on all purchases made at the Show, November 4–7. Interested distributors are encouraged to visit www.TUFTRUCK.com or www.WESTCOASTWINCH.com or visit booth 33055.

• Vision Engraving & Routing Systems, Booth 10125: Vision will demonstrate deep metal engraving and parts marking for the duration of the SEMA Show. Come by, watch and get a free engraved sample. With the ability to adjust depth, speed and other key factors, you can reproduce a clean, clear marking that won't be removed. Vision has a variety of engraving and routing systems that will allow you to work with flat, cylindrical, and odd-shaped items in a wide range of materials and applications. Vision has desktop-sized machines starting at 8x10-in. and going up to a 4x8-ft. CNC router engraver. Engrave curved, flat or round surfaces in a variety of metals, such as iron, steel, brass, aluminum, gold, copper, silver and more. Vision software features auto serialization for quicker turnaround times on high-volume jobs. For more information, visit www.visionengravers.com.

• Wavetrac Differentials, Booth 23820: Offering a SEMA Show special to new and existing customers. The company is offering an additional 10% off current pricing on all Wavetrac applications. Valid only on orders placed at the Show, November 4–7. For product information, visit booth 23820 or online at www.wavetrac.net.

Exhibitors: Reach out to more buyers prior to the Show through eNews by submitting your incentive or Show special to editors@sema.org. Be sure to include the discount or incentive being offered, as well as booth number for the 2014 Show.

	With more than 1 million sq.-ft. of exhibit space, Showgoers will want to ensure they bring a comfortable pair of shoes.

First-time SEMA Showgoers might be wondering what to expect when they arrive in Vegas. The 2014 SEMA Show annually attracts more than 130,000 automotive industry professionals. For those who have never attended, it is important to come prepared and avoid common rookie mistakes that many first-timers make.

When previous Showgoers were asked to share their biggest mistake they made the first year, this is what they had to say:

Rookie Mistake: “Thinking I could see it all in one day.”

Lesson Learned: Registration for the SEMA Show provides access for all four days of the event. The SEMA Show fills more than 1 million sq.-ft. of the Las Vegas Convention Center, with more than 2,300 exhibiting companies, plus additional features and attractions, such as a taping of Velocity’s popular TV Show “Overhaulin’” and the OPTIMA Street Car Alley (located between the Westgate (formerly LVH)) and Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) North Hall. Attending the SEMA Show for multiple days is the best way to enjoy the event in its entirety.

Rookie Mistake: “Not bringing the right shoes.”

Lesson Learned: If you’ve been to the Show before, then you can agree that comfortable shoes are a must. Walking all day can be a painful experience on your feet if you are not wearing the correct shoes. You can give your feet a break mid-day by attending one of more than 50 free education seminars. It’s a great way to get off your feet for an hour and learn some new business strategies. For a list of the seminars visit www.SEMAShow.com/education. Make sure you break in your shoes beforehand, and bring more than one pair!

Rookie Mistake: “I wasn’t prepared.”

Lesson Learned: Because there are thousands of exhibitors to visit, it is important to have a plan before attending the Show. Know where exhibitors are located to help you accomplish all you want to see at the Show. You can also download the SEMA Show app, which features turn-by-turn directions using a “locate me” feature for guidance to one or multiple exhibitor booths or Show features. The app is available for download. View the full list of exhibitors and the floorplan.

Rookie Mistake: “Waiting until the last minute to register.”

Lesson Learned: Registering in advance online can save you money and ensure that you have your badge in hand before the Show opens. You can register for the Show at www.SEMAShow.com/register. After confirming your registration, you can quickly secure hotel accommodations and reservations through the Travel & Lodging page. Booking through this service, which is provided by the official Show housing partner Travel Planners, provides Showgoers with a low-price guarantee and premier customer service. Don’t forget that there is a complimentary shuttle bus service provided each morning and afternoon between the LVCC and official hotels. Don’t wait until the last minute to plan how you are going to get to the Show!

Rookie Mistake: “Didn’t drink enough water.”

Lesson Learned: Most Showgoers are on the floor an average of eight hours per day. Staying hydrated is very important. You can fuel up for your first day by attending SEMA’s annual New Products Breakfast, Tuesday, November 4, from 7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m., in the Westgate (formerly the LVH) ballroom A, to find out the winners of the New Products Awards. Remember to bring plenty of water and make plans for your meals throughout the week; it is easy to lose track of time when you’re on the Show floor.

Rookie Mistake: “Not going the whole week.”

Lesson Learned: Every day of the Show offers something new and exciting to see. Whether it is a vehicle unveil or celebrity appearance, don’t skip out on the full SEMA Show experience. New this year is SEMA Ignited, which takes place after the SEMA Show on Friday, November 7, from 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m., at The LINQ in Las Vegas. Open to the public and free of charge, you'll find vehicles, products, celebrities, demonstrations, music, food and fun from the 2014 SEMA Show. For more information, check out www.semashow.com/ignited.

Visit the SEMA Show Facebook page for more tips and tricks that can help you have a successful first-time at the SEMA Show.

	With more than 1 million sq.-ft. of exhibit space, Showgoers will want to ensure they bring a comfortable pair of shoes.

First-time SEMA Showgoers might be wondering what to expect when they arrive in Vegas. The 2014 SEMA Show annually attracts more than 130,000 automotive industry professionals. For those who have never attended, it is important to come prepared and avoid common rookie mistakes that many first-timers make.

When previous Showgoers were asked to share their biggest mistake they made the first year, this is what they had to say:

Rookie Mistake: “Thinking I could see it all in one day.”

Lesson Learned: Registration for the SEMA Show provides access for all four days of the event. The SEMA Show fills more than 1 million sq.-ft. of the Las Vegas Convention Center, with more than 2,300 exhibiting companies, plus additional features and attractions, such as a taping of Velocity’s popular TV Show “Overhaulin’” and the OPTIMA Street Car Alley (located between the Westgate (formerly LVH)) and Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) North Hall. Attending the SEMA Show for multiple days is the best way to enjoy the event in its entirety.

Rookie Mistake: “Not bringing the right shoes.”

Lesson Learned: If you’ve been to the Show before, then you can agree that comfortable shoes are a must. Walking all day can be a painful experience on your feet if you are not wearing the correct shoes. You can give your feet a break mid-day by attending one of more than 50 free education seminars. It’s a great way to get off your feet for an hour and learn some new business strategies. For a list of the seminars visit www.SEMAShow.com/education. Make sure you break in your shoes beforehand, and bring more than one pair!

Rookie Mistake: “I wasn’t prepared.”

Lesson Learned: Because there are thousands of exhibitors to visit, it is important to have a plan before attending the Show. Know where exhibitors are located to help you accomplish all you want to see at the Show. You can also download the SEMA Show app, which features turn-by-turn directions using a “locate me” feature for guidance to one or multiple exhibitor booths or Show features. The app is available for download. View the full list of exhibitors and the floorplan.

Rookie Mistake: “Waiting until the last minute to register.”

Lesson Learned: Registering in advance online can save you money and ensure that you have your badge in hand before the Show opens. You can register for the Show at www.SEMAShow.com/register. After confirming your registration, you can quickly secure hotel accommodations and reservations through the Travel & Lodging page. Booking through this service, which is provided by the official Show housing partner Travel Planners, provides Showgoers with a low-price guarantee and premier customer service. Don’t forget that there is a complimentary shuttle bus service provided each morning and afternoon between the LVCC and official hotels. Don’t wait until the last minute to plan how you are going to get to the Show!

Rookie Mistake: “Didn’t drink enough water.”

Lesson Learned: Most Showgoers are on the floor an average of eight hours per day. Staying hydrated is very important. You can fuel up for your first day by attending SEMA’s annual New Products Breakfast, Tuesday, November 4, from 7:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m., in the Westgate (formerly the LVH) ballroom A, to find out the winners of the New Products Awards. Remember to bring plenty of water and make plans for your meals throughout the week; it is easy to lose track of time when you’re on the Show floor.

Rookie Mistake: “Not going the whole week.”

Lesson Learned: Every day of the Show offers something new and exciting to see. Whether it is a vehicle unveil or celebrity appearance, don’t skip out on the full SEMA Show experience. New this year is SEMA Ignited, which takes place after the SEMA Show on Friday, November 7, from 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m., at The LINQ in Las Vegas. Open to the public and free of charge, you'll find vehicles, products, celebrities, demonstrations, music, food and fun from the 2014 SEMA Show. For more information, check out www.semashow.com/ignited.

Visit the SEMA Show Facebook page for more tips and tricks that can help you have a successful first-time at the SEMA Show.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Nicole Girkey Named Skyjacker's Marketing Director

Nicole Girkey has been named marketing director for Skyjacker Suspension. Prior to joining Skyjacker, Girkey was the CEO for a full-service marketing agency, High Performance Prose Inc., where she managed top-tier accounts while also handling the agency’s advertising, marketing and public relations teams. She has worked with industry clients including SEMA, Royal Purple, BorgWarner Turbo Systems, The Petersen Automotive Museum, Carroll Shelby and eBay Motors.

	Jason Kellams	Ben Bowman

Restoration Parts Group Introduces Two VPs

Restoration Parts Group (RPG), parent company of restoration specialists Trim Parts, PUI, Right Stuff Detailing, SoffSeal Inc., Mr. Mustang and First Place Auto Products, announced the appointment of two new vice presidents. New Restoration Parts Group Vice President of Operations Jason Kellams brings extensive experience and knowledge to the position, having previously worked as the vice president of operations at Evansville ARC and as the senior manager of manufacturing at Nissan North America. Kellams’ strengths in P&L management, systems development and leadership are key to his new post.

RPG’s former Supply Chain Manager Ben Bowman has been promoted to vice president of supply chain management. Bowman will be responsible for enacting company-wide supply chain initiatives, sourcing programs and quality assurance standards. 

Fuelab Relocates Headquarters

Fuelab has recently relocated to a new facility in Collinsville, Illinois, approximately 42 miles from its previous location (Litchfield, Illinois). The move was made to support the company’s increased parts production, improved customer support and room for growth. Fuelab will now occupy a 5,000-sq.-ft. sales and manufacturing facility located in the St. Louis metro area. Fuelab’s new address is 1605 Eastport Plaza Dr., Ste. 125, Collinsville, IL 62234. The company’s new phone number is 618-344-3300.

Special Rates Available for Show Vehicle Transportation

Sterling Productions has space available in their enclosed trailers for transport of SEMA vehicles to the 2014 SEMA Show, November 4–7, in Las Vegas. SEMA-member companies located in the continental United States seeking secure and bonded Show vehicle transit are invited to contact Duane Johnson at 704-402-3558 or info@sterlingproductionsinc.com to receive special SEMA-member rates.

The 9th Annual Holley Somernites Power Cruise will feature more than 1,500 cars in Somerset, Kentucky.

Holley's 9th Annual Somernites Power Cruise, September 27

Holley has announced the return and sponsorship of the 9th Annual Holley Somernites Power Cruise. The event, which starts September 27, at 12:00 p.m., will feature more than 1,500 cars in Somerset, Kentucky, to cruise and hang out on the historic square and surrounding areas of the city. Holley will be present with their display trailer downtown on the square during the event displaying all of their latest carburetors, EFI systems, LS engine-swap products, exhaust systems and more from the following brands: Holley, Earl's, Flowtech, Hooker Headers, NOS and Weiand.

Richard Petty Garage Car Show Moves to Fall

The Fourth Annual Richard Petty Garage Car Show presented by the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) is scheduled for October 10–11, in Level Cross, Randleman, North Carolina. This year’s event kicks off with an invitation-only cookout at Petty’s home, Reverie Place, Friday, October 10. Petty will sign autographs during the car show at the Level Cross Petty Enterprises Historical Site, Saturday, October 11, and admission to the show includes free entry to the new Richard Petty Museum. The Petty’s Garage Car Show was previously held in the spring. With construction of the relocated Richard Petty Museum taking place on the grounds earlier this year, the 2014 event was moved to the fall.

The event runs from 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Saturday, October 11, and judging begins at 12:00 p.m. Petty will sign autographs from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. The Richard Petty Museum opens at 9:00 a.m. The Museum features trophies, cars, memorabilia and more to tell the story of Petty’s NASCAR career. There’s a new exhibit for the kids, featuring Mr. and Mrs. The King and the Hudson Hornet from the Disney Pixar movie, Cars.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

By Becca Butler

	The first product submitted into the New Products Showcase is completely free. All additional products are $75 per category if entered by the October 10 deadline.

The advance-rate deadline for New Products Showcase submissions is Friday, October 10. The first product submitted is free. All additional products are $75 per category if entered by the October 10 deadline, after which, the fee will increase to $150 per category.

One of the most sought-out areas at the 2014 SEMA Show, the 35,000-sq.-ft. New Products Showcase—located in Upper South Hall—is the No. 1 media and buyer destination. By participating in the Showcase, exhibitors are able to draw attention to their company’s products, ultimately attracting more buyers to their booth.

Five benefits of entering a product into the New Products Showcase

• It’s Free! The first entry in the New Products Showcase is free. All additional entries are $75 per product category if entered by Friday, October 10, after which, the fee will be $150 per product category.

• Increased Foot Traffic: Entering a product into the Showcase is a great way to get buyers and media to visit an exhibitor's booth. The Showcase is the No. 1 destination for attendees, who will see the company name and booth number displayed next to the products. Buyers and media who scan products will also receive the information in hard copy.

• Increased Publicity: The New Products Showcase is a highly photographed area of the SEMA Show. Photos will be promoted to the media, featured in future issues of SEMA News and posted on the SEMA website.

• Possible Award Eligibility: New products entered into the Showcase are eligible to receive a SEMA Show New Product Award. This competition recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced to the automotive aftermarket. Winners will be announced at the New Products Breakfast, Tuesday, November 4.

• It’s Not Just For New Products: While products must meet specific requirements to be included in the New Products Showcase, the program includes a category so that all products may be displayed as a featured product. Featured products do not qualify for the New Products Awards Program, but receive the added exposure and increased publicity noted above.

Exhibitors can enter products into the Showcase online. For more information regarding the New Products Showcase, visit the SEMA Show website.

By Becca Butler

	The first product submitted into the New Products Showcase is completely free. All additional products are $75 per category if entered by the October 10 deadline.

The advance-rate deadline for New Products Showcase submissions is Friday, October 10. The first product submitted is free. All additional products are $75 per category if entered by the October 10 deadline, after which, the fee will increase to $150 per category.

One of the most sought-out areas at the 2014 SEMA Show, the 35,000-sq.-ft. New Products Showcase—located in Upper South Hall—is the No. 1 media and buyer destination. By participating in the Showcase, exhibitors are able to draw attention to their company’s products, ultimately attracting more buyers to their booth.

Five benefits of entering a product into the New Products Showcase

• It’s Free! The first entry in the New Products Showcase is free. All additional entries are $75 per product category if entered by Friday, October 10, after which, the fee will be $150 per product category.

• Increased Foot Traffic: Entering a product into the Showcase is a great way to get buyers and media to visit an exhibitor's booth. The Showcase is the No. 1 destination for attendees, who will see the company name and booth number displayed next to the products. Buyers and media who scan products will also receive the information in hard copy.

• Increased Publicity: The New Products Showcase is a highly photographed area of the SEMA Show. Photos will be promoted to the media, featured in future issues of SEMA News and posted on the SEMA website.

• Possible Award Eligibility: New products entered into the Showcase are eligible to receive a SEMA Show New Product Award. This competition recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced to the automotive aftermarket. Winners will be announced at the New Products Breakfast, Tuesday, November 4.

• It’s Not Just For New Products: While products must meet specific requirements to be included in the New Products Showcase, the program includes a category so that all products may be displayed as a featured product. Featured products do not qualify for the New Products Awards Program, but receive the added exposure and increased publicity noted above.

Exhibitors can enter products into the Showcase online. For more information regarding the New Products Showcase, visit the SEMA Show website.