SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Charitable Booth Display, New Home for the Reception

 

The TORA booth has been redesigned for the 2009 SEMA Show, but some things won’t change. In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show, and many of the helpful TORA member-benefit presentations will also be available.

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are invited to stop by the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) booth # 30073 located in the South Hall. The booth has a completely new layout but will once again be highlighted by three TORA member-company vehicles. Each of the three vehicle owners will make a $1,000 donation to benefit the SEMA Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp charities.

“This is becoming an TORA tradition,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl of TruXedo. “Even in good times, I’m impressed by the ease with which companies make that $1,000 donation. To see it continue in light of current economic conditions, however, is inspiring.”

Perhaps the donations come easily because members can readily see where the money goes. Over the past two years, proceeds from the display vehicles have helped TORA purchase Pinewood Derby tracks and equipment for Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. The tracks have entertained hundreds of children who are neglected or suffer from chronic or terminal illness.

In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show. Many of the helpful TORA member-benefit pieces will also be available, such as CDs with content regarding altered vehicle heights, center high-mounted stop light wiring, paint matching and webinars as well as reference sheets for keyless entry and truck bed dimensions.

“The booth has been redesigned for this year so that TORA members can have a place to meet and greet with colleagues,” said Kneifl. “We’re on an end row island, which makes it easy to locate and convenient to traffic coming and going through South Hall. We encourage everyone to come by and get acquainted—or reacquainted, as the case may be.”

TORA Reception Gets New Home

Anne Johnson accepted TORA Hall of Fame honors from Kelly Kneifl (left) and Ron DiVincenzo at the 2008 Spring Expo. For 2009, TORA will present the Retailer of the Year, the Chairman’s Award and the Hall of Fame induction at a relocated reception, which will be held in the Renaissance Hotel—much closer to most member companies’ exhibit spaces.

The annual TORA industry reception, to be held this year on Wednesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., is moving to the Renaissance Hotel. The TORA hopes the proximity to South Hall will encourage greater attendance.

“The Hilton has been a marvelous venue for our reception for many years,” said TORA Chair-Elect George Lathouris. “We appreciate all they’ve done for us. However, a brand-new opportunity presented itself this year in the form of the Renaissance Hotel, and the TORA Select Committee felt strongly that it was perfect timing to change things up a bit. The Hilton ballrooms and South Hall where the truck accessories manufacturers display are about as far apart as any two points in the convention center property can be. Attendance at the reception has always been good, but we’re betting we see some new faces this year simply because we’ve eliminated that long trek.”

Along with a new location, the reception will also include the presentation of the annual TORA awards, including the Retailer of the Year, the Hall of Fame inductee and the Chairman’s Award.

As with the Professional Restylers Organization, without the spring event for 2009, our awards were left without a home,” said Kelly Kneifl. “The SEMA Show reception was a logical alternative. We felt that part of the success of our reception at the Show had been the fact that it is truly a networking and social affair, with minimal podium time. Incorporating the awards into the program in a manner that affords adequate respect while keeping presentation length to a minimum will be a small challenge. But TORA members thrive on challenge—especially our Select Committee—so I have no doubt that the changes will all be positive and that the annual TORA industry reception will continue to bring value to all attendees.”

TORA West Coast Long-Range Planning a Success

The annual TORA Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting was held on Thursday, July 30, in Pasadena, California. The date and location were chosen because of their proximity to the annual SEMA Installation Banquet and the Council Summit.

We knew that holding the meeting in California would be an experiment,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl. “The LRP has always been in the Midwest or East Coast, even in the Truck Cap Accessory Alliance days. But without a spring event or a truck-specific event, this was the only activity at which members might be present and, thus, be able to combine two trips into one. Given the economy, it’s difficult to assess if the change brought more or fewer attendees. However, the meeting itself was successful. We deviated from the typical LRP format and conducted a SWOT [strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats] analysis on the industry and on the council. The day-long discussion was very animated, and I don’t think there was a single wallflower in the entire group. The Select Committee is still evaluating the results and coming up with some action plans for the future.” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Charitable Booth Display, New Home for the Reception

 

The TORA booth has been redesigned for the 2009 SEMA Show, but some things won’t change. In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show, and many of the helpful TORA member-benefit presentations will also be available.

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are invited to stop by the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) booth # 30073 located in the South Hall. The booth has a completely new layout but will once again be highlighted by three TORA member-company vehicles. Each of the three vehicle owners will make a $1,000 donation to benefit the SEMA Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp charities.

“This is becoming an TORA tradition,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl of TruXedo. “Even in good times, I’m impressed by the ease with which companies make that $1,000 donation. To see it continue in light of current economic conditions, however, is inspiring.”

Perhaps the donations come easily because members can readily see where the money goes. Over the past two years, proceeds from the display vehicles have helped TORA purchase Pinewood Derby tracks and equipment for Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. The tracks have entertained hundreds of children who are neglected or suffer from chronic or terminal illness.

In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show. Many of the helpful TORA member-benefit pieces will also be available, such as CDs with content regarding altered vehicle heights, center high-mounted stop light wiring, paint matching and webinars as well as reference sheets for keyless entry and truck bed dimensions.

“The booth has been redesigned for this year so that TORA members can have a place to meet and greet with colleagues,” said Kneifl. “We’re on an end row island, which makes it easy to locate and convenient to traffic coming and going through South Hall. We encourage everyone to come by and get acquainted—or reacquainted, as the case may be.”

TORA Reception Gets New Home

Anne Johnson accepted TORA Hall of Fame honors from Kelly Kneifl (left) and Ron DiVincenzo at the 2008 Spring Expo. For 2009, TORA will present the Retailer of the Year, the Chairman’s Award and the Hall of Fame induction at a relocated reception, which will be held in the Renaissance Hotel—much closer to most member companies’ exhibit spaces.

The annual TORA industry reception, to be held this year on Wednesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., is moving to the Renaissance Hotel. The TORA hopes the proximity to South Hall will encourage greater attendance.

“The Hilton has been a marvelous venue for our reception for many years,” said TORA Chair-Elect George Lathouris. “We appreciate all they’ve done for us. However, a brand-new opportunity presented itself this year in the form of the Renaissance Hotel, and the TORA Select Committee felt strongly that it was perfect timing to change things up a bit. The Hilton ballrooms and South Hall where the truck accessories manufacturers display are about as far apart as any two points in the convention center property can be. Attendance at the reception has always been good, but we’re betting we see some new faces this year simply because we’ve eliminated that long trek.”

Along with a new location, the reception will also include the presentation of the annual TORA awards, including the Retailer of the Year, the Hall of Fame inductee and the Chairman’s Award.

As with the Professional Restylers Organization, without the spring event for 2009, our awards were left without a home,” said Kelly Kneifl. “The SEMA Show reception was a logical alternative. We felt that part of the success of our reception at the Show had been the fact that it is truly a networking and social affair, with minimal podium time. Incorporating the awards into the program in a manner that affords adequate respect while keeping presentation length to a minimum will be a small challenge. But TORA members thrive on challenge—especially our Select Committee—so I have no doubt that the changes will all be positive and that the annual TORA industry reception will continue to bring value to all attendees.”

TORA West Coast Long-Range Planning a Success

The annual TORA Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting was held on Thursday, July 30, in Pasadena, California. The date and location were chosen because of their proximity to the annual SEMA Installation Banquet and the Council Summit.

We knew that holding the meeting in California would be an experiment,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl. “The LRP has always been in the Midwest or East Coast, even in the Truck Cap Accessory Alliance days. But without a spring event or a truck-specific event, this was the only activity at which members might be present and, thus, be able to combine two trips into one. Given the economy, it’s difficult to assess if the change brought more or fewer attendees. However, the meeting itself was successful. We deviated from the typical LRP format and conducted a SWOT [strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats] analysis on the industry and on the council. The day-long discussion was very animated, and I don’t think there was a single wallflower in the entire group. The Select Committee is still evaluating the results and coming up with some action plans for the future.” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Charitable Booth Display, New Home for the Reception

 

The TORA booth has been redesigned for the 2009 SEMA Show, but some things won’t change. In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show, and many of the helpful TORA member-benefit presentations will also be available.

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are invited to stop by the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) booth # 30073 located in the South Hall. The booth has a completely new layout but will once again be highlighted by three TORA member-company vehicles. Each of the three vehicle owners will make a $1,000 donation to benefit the SEMA Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp charities.

“This is becoming an TORA tradition,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl of TruXedo. “Even in good times, I’m impressed by the ease with which companies make that $1,000 donation. To see it continue in light of current economic conditions, however, is inspiring.”

Perhaps the donations come easily because members can readily see where the money goes. Over the past two years, proceeds from the display vehicles have helped TORA purchase Pinewood Derby tracks and equipment for Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. The tracks have entertained hundreds of children who are neglected or suffer from chronic or terminal illness.

In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show. Many of the helpful TORA member-benefit pieces will also be available, such as CDs with content regarding altered vehicle heights, center high-mounted stop light wiring, paint matching and webinars as well as reference sheets for keyless entry and truck bed dimensions.

“The booth has been redesigned for this year so that TORA members can have a place to meet and greet with colleagues,” said Kneifl. “We’re on an end row island, which makes it easy to locate and convenient to traffic coming and going through South Hall. We encourage everyone to come by and get acquainted—or reacquainted, as the case may be.”

TORA Reception Gets New Home

Anne Johnson accepted TORA Hall of Fame honors from Kelly Kneifl (left) and Ron DiVincenzo at the 2008 Spring Expo. For 2009, TORA will present the Retailer of the Year, the Chairman’s Award and the Hall of Fame induction at a relocated reception, which will be held in the Renaissance Hotel—much closer to most member companies’ exhibit spaces.

The annual TORA industry reception, to be held this year on Wednesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., is moving to the Renaissance Hotel. The TORA hopes the proximity to South Hall will encourage greater attendance.

“The Hilton has been a marvelous venue for our reception for many years,” said TORA Chair-Elect George Lathouris. “We appreciate all they’ve done for us. However, a brand-new opportunity presented itself this year in the form of the Renaissance Hotel, and the TORA Select Committee felt strongly that it was perfect timing to change things up a bit. The Hilton ballrooms and South Hall where the truck accessories manufacturers display are about as far apart as any two points in the convention center property can be. Attendance at the reception has always been good, but we’re betting we see some new faces this year simply because we’ve eliminated that long trek.”

Along with a new location, the reception will also include the presentation of the annual TORA awards, including the Retailer of the Year, the Hall of Fame inductee and the Chairman’s Award.

As with the Professional Restylers Organization, without the spring event for 2009, our awards were left without a home,” said Kelly Kneifl. “The SEMA Show reception was a logical alternative. We felt that part of the success of our reception at the Show had been the fact that it is truly a networking and social affair, with minimal podium time. Incorporating the awards into the program in a manner that affords adequate respect while keeping presentation length to a minimum will be a small challenge. But TORA members thrive on challenge—especially our Select Committee—so I have no doubt that the changes will all be positive and that the annual TORA industry reception will continue to bring value to all attendees.”

TORA West Coast Long-Range Planning a Success

The annual TORA Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting was held on Thursday, July 30, in Pasadena, California. The date and location were chosen because of their proximity to the annual SEMA Installation Banquet and the Council Summit.

We knew that holding the meeting in California would be an experiment,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl. “The LRP has always been in the Midwest or East Coast, even in the Truck Cap Accessory Alliance days. But without a spring event or a truck-specific event, this was the only activity at which members might be present and, thus, be able to combine two trips into one. Given the economy, it’s difficult to assess if the change brought more or fewer attendees. However, the meeting itself was successful. We deviated from the typical LRP format and conducted a SWOT [strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats] analysis on the industry and on the council. The day-long discussion was very animated, and I don’t think there was a single wallflower in the entire group. The Select Committee is still evaluating the results and coming up with some action plans for the future.” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Charitable Booth Display, New Home for the Reception

 

The TORA booth has been redesigned for the 2009 SEMA Show, but some things won’t change. In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show, and many of the helpful TORA member-benefit presentations will also be available.

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are invited to stop by the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) booth # 30073 located in the South Hall. The booth has a completely new layout but will once again be highlighted by three TORA member-company vehicles. Each of the three vehicle owners will make a $1,000 donation to benefit the SEMA Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp charities.

“This is becoming an TORA tradition,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl of TruXedo. “Even in good times, I’m impressed by the ease with which companies make that $1,000 donation. To see it continue in light of current economic conditions, however, is inspiring.”

Perhaps the donations come easily because members can readily see where the money goes. Over the past two years, proceeds from the display vehicles have helped TORA purchase Pinewood Derby tracks and equipment for Childhelp and Victory Junction facilities. The tracks have entertained hundreds of children who are neglected or suffer from chronic or terminal illness.

In addition to the beautiful vehicles on display, SEMA staff and TORA Select Committee members will be on hand to answer questions and sign up new members throughout the course of the Show. Many of the helpful TORA member-benefit pieces will also be available, such as CDs with content regarding altered vehicle heights, center high-mounted stop light wiring, paint matching and webinars as well as reference sheets for keyless entry and truck bed dimensions.

“The booth has been redesigned for this year so that TORA members can have a place to meet and greet with colleagues,” said Kneifl. “We’re on an end row island, which makes it easy to locate and convenient to traffic coming and going through South Hall. We encourage everyone to come by and get acquainted—or reacquainted, as the case may be.”

TORA Reception Gets New Home

Anne Johnson accepted TORA Hall of Fame honors from Kelly Kneifl (left) and Ron DiVincenzo at the 2008 Spring Expo. For 2009, TORA will present the Retailer of the Year, the Chairman’s Award and the Hall of Fame induction at a relocated reception, which will be held in the Renaissance Hotel—much closer to most member companies’ exhibit spaces.

The annual TORA industry reception, to be held this year on Wednesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., is moving to the Renaissance Hotel. The TORA hopes the proximity to South Hall will encourage greater attendance.

“The Hilton has been a marvelous venue for our reception for many years,” said TORA Chair-Elect George Lathouris. “We appreciate all they’ve done for us. However, a brand-new opportunity presented itself this year in the form of the Renaissance Hotel, and the TORA Select Committee felt strongly that it was perfect timing to change things up a bit. The Hilton ballrooms and South Hall where the truck accessories manufacturers display are about as far apart as any two points in the convention center property can be. Attendance at the reception has always been good, but we’re betting we see some new faces this year simply because we’ve eliminated that long trek.”

Along with a new location, the reception will also include the presentation of the annual TORA awards, including the Retailer of the Year, the Hall of Fame inductee and the Chairman’s Award.

As with the Professional Restylers Organization, without the spring event for 2009, our awards were left without a home,” said Kelly Kneifl. “The SEMA Show reception was a logical alternative. We felt that part of the success of our reception at the Show had been the fact that it is truly a networking and social affair, with minimal podium time. Incorporating the awards into the program in a manner that affords adequate respect while keeping presentation length to a minimum will be a small challenge. But TORA members thrive on challenge—especially our Select Committee—so I have no doubt that the changes will all be positive and that the annual TORA industry reception will continue to bring value to all attendees.”

TORA West Coast Long-Range Planning a Success

The annual TORA Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting was held on Thursday, July 30, in Pasadena, California. The date and location were chosen because of their proximity to the annual SEMA Installation Banquet and the Council Summit.

We knew that holding the meeting in California would be an experiment,” said TORA Chairman Kelly Kneifl. “The LRP has always been in the Midwest or East Coast, even in the Truck Cap Accessory Alliance days. But without a spring event or a truck-specific event, this was the only activity at which members might be present and, thus, be able to combine two trips into one. Given the economy, it’s difficult to assess if the change brought more or fewer attendees. However, the meeting itself was successful. We deviated from the typical LRP format and conducted a SWOT [strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats] analysis on the industry and on the council. The day-long discussion was very animated, and I don’t think there was a single wallflower in the entire group. The Select Committee is still evaluating the results and coming up with some action plans for the future.” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Media Trade Conference Moves to a New Home

The 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to the Radisson Suites in Covina, California. The new venue promises an upgraded experience for exhibitors and media alike. In addition to three days of face-to-face meetings, the event also offers unmatched networking opportunities between exhibitors and attendees.

When the 13th annual Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference opens on January 19, 2010, it will be in a new home for the first time in six years. The popular event moves from El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), to a newly renovated Radisson Suites in Covina, California.

“Even though we’ve had very successful events at LAX for several years running, we are always looking at other properties,” said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. “The LAX site worked well, mainly because the physical layout of the hotel allowed all 100 exhibitor suites to be located on only two floors. That is very important, because media only have one flight of stairs to contend with in between meetings if the elevators slow down or get crowded. Several other hotels in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties areas offered upgraded amenities, convenient night life and so forth. But none of them could accommodate the 100 exhibitor suites on two floors. While the amenities are nice, if media attendees cannot get to their 30-minute meetings with manufacturers because they are waiting on elevators, then the event fails. This Radisson property offers the proper layout, delivers upgraded amenities and offered us a much lower room price! The MPMC Select Committee is very anxious to experience the move.”

Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the L.A. County Fairgrounds and NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse.

“We’re looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina,” Floyd continued. “This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success and will allow us to accomplish even more than ever before.”

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a truly unique event that brings manufacturers and editorial staffs from national and international media together for three days of face-to-face, 30-minute meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to meet with editorial staffs from so many publications and media. Likewise, nowhere else can editors and writers gather so much technical and new-product material in one place. Only MPMC-member manufacturers are eligible for one of the 100 exhibitor suites.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Seminar at the SEMA Show

MPMC will host a seminar at the SEMA Show on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in meeting room N262–N264 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The seminar is titled “Motorsports Marketing; How to Measure Your Return.” The gist of the seminar is simple: Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch; learn how to measure the return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of marketing in motorsports.

Moderated by Floyd, the panel will consist of representatives from sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams. Panelists confirmed at press time included:

• Bill Holland, Holland Communications—Holland has experience on all sides of the motorsports marketing table, as a competitor, an editor and a marketing agent for contingency sponsors.
• Karl Fredrickson, Speedway Illustrated—Fredrickson also has experience as a competitor and a publisher.
• Steve Wolcott, Pro Media Publishing—Wolcott can speak from both the publishing and sanctioning-body perspectives. Pro Media operates the popular NMRA and PRO Fastest Street Car drag racing series.

Other panelists are being confirmed as this article goes to print. Expect to see several more representatives from auto manufacturers, other sanctioning bodies and possibly a few more competitors. Consult your SEMA Show Directory or the MPMC website for updates.

I am very excited to moderate this panel discussion,” said Floyd. “This is another important piece to the whole ‘Motorsports Awareness’ initiative started by MPMC last year. We’re hoping to have some folks in the audience who have never invested marketing dollars in motorsports and show them the tremendous value and return it can bring. We don’t have to tell anyone about the economy and how tight marketing dollars have become. But we can tell them about motorsports, motorsports fans and the loyalty they traditionally have for sponsors’ products. Thanks to SEMA for giving us this opportunity. I hope we can do more in the future.

And remember: Take a Friend to a Race!” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Media Trade Conference Moves to a New Home

The 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to the Radisson Suites in Covina, California. The new venue promises an upgraded experience for exhibitors and media alike. In addition to three days of face-to-face meetings, the event also offers unmatched networking opportunities between exhibitors and attendees.

When the 13th annual Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference opens on January 19, 2010, it will be in a new home for the first time in six years. The popular event moves from El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), to a newly renovated Radisson Suites in Covina, California.

“Even though we’ve had very successful events at LAX for several years running, we are always looking at other properties,” said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. “The LAX site worked well, mainly because the physical layout of the hotel allowed all 100 exhibitor suites to be located on only two floors. That is very important, because media only have one flight of stairs to contend with in between meetings if the elevators slow down or get crowded. Several other hotels in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties areas offered upgraded amenities, convenient night life and so forth. But none of them could accommodate the 100 exhibitor suites on two floors. While the amenities are nice, if media attendees cannot get to their 30-minute meetings with manufacturers because they are waiting on elevators, then the event fails. This Radisson property offers the proper layout, delivers upgraded amenities and offered us a much lower room price! The MPMC Select Committee is very anxious to experience the move.”

Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the L.A. County Fairgrounds and NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse.

“We’re looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina,” Floyd continued. “This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success and will allow us to accomplish even more than ever before.”

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a truly unique event that brings manufacturers and editorial staffs from national and international media together for three days of face-to-face, 30-minute meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to meet with editorial staffs from so many publications and media. Likewise, nowhere else can editors and writers gather so much technical and new-product material in one place. Only MPMC-member manufacturers are eligible for one of the 100 exhibitor suites.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Seminar at the SEMA Show

MPMC will host a seminar at the SEMA Show on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in meeting room N262–N264 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The seminar is titled “Motorsports Marketing; How to Measure Your Return.” The gist of the seminar is simple: Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch; learn how to measure the return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of marketing in motorsports.

Moderated by Floyd, the panel will consist of representatives from sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams. Panelists confirmed at press time included:

• Bill Holland, Holland Communications—Holland has experience on all sides of the motorsports marketing table, as a competitor, an editor and a marketing agent for contingency sponsors.
• Karl Fredrickson, Speedway Illustrated—Fredrickson also has experience as a competitor and a publisher.
• Steve Wolcott, Pro Media Publishing—Wolcott can speak from both the publishing and sanctioning-body perspectives. Pro Media operates the popular NMRA and PRO Fastest Street Car drag racing series.

Other panelists are being confirmed as this article goes to print. Expect to see several more representatives from auto manufacturers, other sanctioning bodies and possibly a few more competitors. Consult your SEMA Show Directory or the MPMC website for updates.

I am very excited to moderate this panel discussion,” said Floyd. “This is another important piece to the whole ‘Motorsports Awareness’ initiative started by MPMC last year. We’re hoping to have some folks in the audience who have never invested marketing dollars in motorsports and show them the tremendous value and return it can bring. We don’t have to tell anyone about the economy and how tight marketing dollars have become. But we can tell them about motorsports, motorsports fans and the loyalty they traditionally have for sponsors’ products. Thanks to SEMA for giving us this opportunity. I hope we can do more in the future.

And remember: Take a Friend to a Race!” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Media Trade Conference Moves to a New Home

The 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to the Radisson Suites in Covina, California. The new venue promises an upgraded experience for exhibitors and media alike. In addition to three days of face-to-face meetings, the event also offers unmatched networking opportunities between exhibitors and attendees.

When the 13th annual Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference opens on January 19, 2010, it will be in a new home for the first time in six years. The popular event moves from El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), to a newly renovated Radisson Suites in Covina, California.

“Even though we’ve had very successful events at LAX for several years running, we are always looking at other properties,” said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. “The LAX site worked well, mainly because the physical layout of the hotel allowed all 100 exhibitor suites to be located on only two floors. That is very important, because media only have one flight of stairs to contend with in between meetings if the elevators slow down or get crowded. Several other hotels in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties areas offered upgraded amenities, convenient night life and so forth. But none of them could accommodate the 100 exhibitor suites on two floors. While the amenities are nice, if media attendees cannot get to their 30-minute meetings with manufacturers because they are waiting on elevators, then the event fails. This Radisson property offers the proper layout, delivers upgraded amenities and offered us a much lower room price! The MPMC Select Committee is very anxious to experience the move.”

Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the L.A. County Fairgrounds and NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse.

“We’re looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina,” Floyd continued. “This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success and will allow us to accomplish even more than ever before.”

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a truly unique event that brings manufacturers and editorial staffs from national and international media together for three days of face-to-face, 30-minute meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to meet with editorial staffs from so many publications and media. Likewise, nowhere else can editors and writers gather so much technical and new-product material in one place. Only MPMC-member manufacturers are eligible for one of the 100 exhibitor suites.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Seminar at the SEMA Show

MPMC will host a seminar at the SEMA Show on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in meeting room N262–N264 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The seminar is titled “Motorsports Marketing; How to Measure Your Return.” The gist of the seminar is simple: Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch; learn how to measure the return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of marketing in motorsports.

Moderated by Floyd, the panel will consist of representatives from sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams. Panelists confirmed at press time included:

• Bill Holland, Holland Communications—Holland has experience on all sides of the motorsports marketing table, as a competitor, an editor and a marketing agent for contingency sponsors.
• Karl Fredrickson, Speedway Illustrated—Fredrickson also has experience as a competitor and a publisher.
• Steve Wolcott, Pro Media Publishing—Wolcott can speak from both the publishing and sanctioning-body perspectives. Pro Media operates the popular NMRA and PRO Fastest Street Car drag racing series.

Other panelists are being confirmed as this article goes to print. Expect to see several more representatives from auto manufacturers, other sanctioning bodies and possibly a few more competitors. Consult your SEMA Show Directory or the MPMC website for updates.

I am very excited to moderate this panel discussion,” said Floyd. “This is another important piece to the whole ‘Motorsports Awareness’ initiative started by MPMC last year. We’re hoping to have some folks in the audience who have never invested marketing dollars in motorsports and show them the tremendous value and return it can bring. We don’t have to tell anyone about the economy and how tight marketing dollars have become. But we can tell them about motorsports, motorsports fans and the loyalty they traditionally have for sponsors’ products. Thanks to SEMA for giving us this opportunity. I hope we can do more in the future.

And remember: Take a Friend to a Race!” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Media Trade Conference Moves to a New Home

The 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to the Radisson Suites in Covina, California. The new venue promises an upgraded experience for exhibitors and media alike. In addition to three days of face-to-face meetings, the event also offers unmatched networking opportunities between exhibitors and attendees.

When the 13th annual Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference opens on January 19, 2010, it will be in a new home for the first time in six years. The popular event moves from El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), to a newly renovated Radisson Suites in Covina, California.

“Even though we’ve had very successful events at LAX for several years running, we are always looking at other properties,” said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. “The LAX site worked well, mainly because the physical layout of the hotel allowed all 100 exhibitor suites to be located on only two floors. That is very important, because media only have one flight of stairs to contend with in between meetings if the elevators slow down or get crowded. Several other hotels in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties areas offered upgraded amenities, convenient night life and so forth. But none of them could accommodate the 100 exhibitor suites on two floors. While the amenities are nice, if media attendees cannot get to their 30-minute meetings with manufacturers because they are waiting on elevators, then the event fails. This Radisson property offers the proper layout, delivers upgraded amenities and offered us a much lower room price! The MPMC Select Committee is very anxious to experience the move.”

Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the L.A. County Fairgrounds and NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse.

“We’re looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina,” Floyd continued. “This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success and will allow us to accomplish even more than ever before.”

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a truly unique event that brings manufacturers and editorial staffs from national and international media together for three days of face-to-face, 30-minute meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to meet with editorial staffs from so many publications and media. Likewise, nowhere else can editors and writers gather so much technical and new-product material in one place. Only MPMC-member manufacturers are eligible for one of the 100 exhibitor suites.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Seminar at the SEMA Show

MPMC will host a seminar at the SEMA Show on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in meeting room N262–N264 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The seminar is titled “Motorsports Marketing; How to Measure Your Return.” The gist of the seminar is simple: Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch; learn how to measure the return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of marketing in motorsports.

Moderated by Floyd, the panel will consist of representatives from sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams. Panelists confirmed at press time included:

• Bill Holland, Holland Communications—Holland has experience on all sides of the motorsports marketing table, as a competitor, an editor and a marketing agent for contingency sponsors.
• Karl Fredrickson, Speedway Illustrated—Fredrickson also has experience as a competitor and a publisher.
• Steve Wolcott, Pro Media Publishing—Wolcott can speak from both the publishing and sanctioning-body perspectives. Pro Media operates the popular NMRA and PRO Fastest Street Car drag racing series.

Other panelists are being confirmed as this article goes to print. Expect to see several more representatives from auto manufacturers, other sanctioning bodies and possibly a few more competitors. Consult your SEMA Show Directory or the MPMC website for updates.

I am very excited to moderate this panel discussion,” said Floyd. “This is another important piece to the whole ‘Motorsports Awareness’ initiative started by MPMC last year. We’re hoping to have some folks in the audience who have never invested marketing dollars in motorsports and show them the tremendous value and return it can bring. We don’t have to tell anyone about the economy and how tight marketing dollars have become. But we can tell them about motorsports, motorsports fans and the loyalty they traditionally have for sponsors’ products. Thanks to SEMA for giving us this opportunity. I hope we can do more in the future.

And remember: Take a Friend to a Race!” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Media Trade Conference Moves to a New Home

The 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference moves to the Radisson Suites in Covina, California. The new venue promises an upgraded experience for exhibitors and media alike. In addition to three days of face-to-face meetings, the event also offers unmatched networking opportunities between exhibitors and attendees.

When the 13th annual Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference opens on January 19, 2010, it will be in a new home for the first time in six years. The popular event moves from El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), to a newly renovated Radisson Suites in Covina, California.

“Even though we’ve had very successful events at LAX for several years running, we are always looking at other properties,” said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. “The LAX site worked well, mainly because the physical layout of the hotel allowed all 100 exhibitor suites to be located on only two floors. That is very important, because media only have one flight of stairs to contend with in between meetings if the elevators slow down or get crowded. Several other hotels in the greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties areas offered upgraded amenities, convenient night life and so forth. But none of them could accommodate the 100 exhibitor suites on two floors. While the amenities are nice, if media attendees cannot get to their 30-minute meetings with manufacturers because they are waiting on elevators, then the event fails. This Radisson property offers the proper layout, delivers upgraded amenities and offered us a much lower room price! The MPMC Select Committee is very anxious to experience the move.”

Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the L.A. County Fairgrounds and NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining at the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse.

“We’re looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina,” Floyd continued. “This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success and will allow us to accomplish even more than ever before.”

The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a truly unique event that brings manufacturers and editorial staffs from national and international media together for three days of face-to-face, 30-minute meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to meet with editorial staffs from so many publications and media. Likewise, nowhere else can editors and writers gather so much technical and new-product material in one place. Only MPMC-member manufacturers are eligible for one of the 100 exhibitor suites.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Seminar at the SEMA Show

MPMC will host a seminar at the SEMA Show on Monday at 11:00 a.m. in meeting room N262–N264 of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The seminar is titled “Motorsports Marketing; How to Measure Your Return.” The gist of the seminar is simple: Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch; learn how to measure the return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of marketing in motorsports.

Moderated by Floyd, the panel will consist of representatives from sanctioning bodies, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams. Panelists confirmed at press time included:

• Bill Holland, Holland Communications—Holland has experience on all sides of the motorsports marketing table, as a competitor, an editor and a marketing agent for contingency sponsors.
• Karl Fredrickson, Speedway Illustrated—Fredrickson also has experience as a competitor and a publisher.
• Steve Wolcott, Pro Media Publishing—Wolcott can speak from both the publishing and sanctioning-body perspectives. Pro Media operates the popular NMRA and PRO Fastest Street Car drag racing series.

Other panelists are being confirmed as this article goes to print. Expect to see several more representatives from auto manufacturers, other sanctioning bodies and possibly a few more competitors. Consult your SEMA Show Directory or the MPMC website for updates.

I am very excited to moderate this panel discussion,” said Floyd. “This is another important piece to the whole ‘Motorsports Awareness’ initiative started by MPMC last year. We’re hoping to have some folks in the audience who have never invested marketing dollars in motorsports and show them the tremendous value and return it can bring. We don’t have to tell anyone about the economy and how tight marketing dollars have become. But we can tell them about motorsports, motorsports fans and the loyalty they traditionally have for sponsors’ products. Thanks to SEMA for giving us this opportunity. I hope we can do more in the future.

And remember: Take a Friend to a Race!” 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Making New Contacts and Honoring Our Best

The Manufacturers’ Rep Council awards ceremony and general membership meeting will take place on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton. In addition to presentations about legal issues and the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation, the council will induct the newest member of its Hall of Fame and bestow the Sales Team Annual Recognition award.

The Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) is ramping up for the 2009 SEMA Show. All rep professionals who are in Las Vegas for the SEMA Show should plan to attend the MRC awards ceremony and general membership meeting, which will take place on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton. The meeting will benefit every manufacturers’ rep in attendance, so whether you are from an MRC-member agency or you are from an agency not currently associated with MRC, join us at this meeting. Steven Sack, the MRC’s legal counsel, will be giving a presentation to tune up all the attendees on legal matters. In addition, Tom Wilson will give a presentation at the general membership meeting regarding the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation and the professional benefits and opportunities offered by being a Certified Professional Manufacturers Representative.

Another highlight of the evening will be the induction of the latest member to the MRC Hall of Fame and the announcement of the winner of the Sales Team Annual Recognition (STAR) award. The awards will initially be announced at the general membership meeting, and the recipients will be recognized again during the SEMA Awards Banquet on Thursday night, November 5.

The MRC Hall of Fame was designed to honor outstanding persons in the manufacturer’s representatives segment. It is the most prestigious award presented by the council and is bestowed upon individuals who have significantly contributed to the manufacturers’ rep profession or the council’s growth. The 2008 inductee was the late Bill Perry of Bill Perry & Associates.

	In 2008, the MRC inducted the late Bill Perry into the council’s Hall of Fame. Perry’s son, Chris, was on hand to accept the honor on behalf of his father.

The criteria for induction includes involvement in the industry for a minimum of 10 years and acting with a high degree of integrity within the marketplace. Professional contributions to SEMA and MRC are an important consideration for nomination, but the MRC Select Committee may choose an individual who has not had a close association with SEMA or MRC. In fact, there may not be an induction each year. MRC Hall of Fame induction is presented upon a viable candidate only when the Select Committee deems that an individual has met the requirements of the award.

Recipients of the STAR award are nominated and voted on by members of the MRC only. It is presented to the manufacturer’s sales team that is deemed to have best dealt with manufacturers’ representatives by providing timely and accurate updates on products and company policies and introducing new products as demand warrants. Other criteria include considering manufacturer representatives’ and customers’ comments when developing products and forecasting, providing representatives with necessary sales strategies, including samples, sales literature and competitive comparisons, and participating with representatives in fieldwork. The winner of the 2008 STAR award was Winfield Consumer Products/Husky Liners.

MRC Rep Center

Be sure to take advantage of the MRC Rep Center while you’re at the SEMA Show. Located in room C102 of the Central Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Rep Center will be open from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. each day of the Show. Manufacturers’ reps may schedule use of the meeting rooms with Nancy Lund, but there are also comfortable couches and chairs where you can either take a break or hold informal meetings. And don’t forget that attorney Steven Sack will be on hand throughout Monday and Tuesday of the Show for no-charge, one-on-one legal consultations. Contact Nancy to schedule time with him.

MRC Breakfast With the Students

On Wednesday, November 4, the MRC will host members of the SEMA Student Program for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Reps will meet and talk about the manufacturers’ rep segment of the industry with college and tech students selected for inclusion in the program during the breakfast. Then, after breakfast, the students will accompany MRC members onto the SEMA Show floor for visits with manufacturers. This can be more than just a networking event; several students have ended up being employed by their MRC-member hosts.