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.

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.

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.

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.

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Are You Ready for NovemberFest?

	The PRO Industry Reception, dubbed NovemberFest, will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, Ballroom D.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is pleased to announce NovemberFest, the PRO industry awards reception and celebration at the SEMA Show. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton, ballroom D. “PRO has traditionally held its industry reception at the Spring Expo,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “With the absence of a spring event, it was natural to move our annual awards presentation to the SEMA Show.”

“We wanted to do more than just add another reception to the SEMA Show activity schedule,” added Jeff Fink, PRO Select Committee member and reception task force chairman. “The event name was suggested at our Long-Range Planning Meeting in June, and everyone jumped on it. Select Committee member companies stepped forward and helped sponsor the event, obtained a DJ and even found a sponsor for a commemorative T-shirt that will be handed to each reception attendee. The reception should be a great beginning to another memorable SEMA Show week.”

A German-themed food menu, a DJ and presentation of the PRO industry awards will also be features of the inaugural PRO NovemberFest industry reception. Four awards will be presented: Manufacturer of the Year, Restyler of the Year, the Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Awards.


PRO Booth

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are encouraged to stop by the PRO booth located in the North Hall at space 11259. The PRO booth is conveniently located directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge area and may be used as a convenient meeting place for PRO members. SEMA staff and PRO Select Committee members will be on hand throughout the course of the Show to answer questions and enroll new members. Any new PRO member signed up at the PRO booth will receive a complimentary PRO Sales Training Manual: a PRO Business Development Guidebook and the PRO DVD “Vehicle Accessorization: The Fast Track to Greater Profits.”

“The PRO booth is a great place to meet and greet fellow council members as well as prospective members and to get acquainted with your colleagues who serve on the Select Committee,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns.

Located in the North Hall at booth #11259, directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge, the PRO booth will once again provide a convenient meeting and resting place for the council’s members.

General Membership Meeting

Another PRO council activity on tap for SEMA Show 2009 is a general membership meeting. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 5, from 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. in meeting rooms N219–N222 of the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This meeting is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest PRO council plans and to lend your input to future projects. The PRO council is dedicated to helping all PRO members gear up for the future, and they need your voice. Please plan to attend! 

 

 

PRO Delivers Groundbreaking LRP With OEM Panel Discussion

PRO council members in attendance at the June Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting acknowledged the get-together as ground-breaking in establishing relationships between the automakers and the restyling industry. Each of the Detroit Big Three have a slightly different approach to company interactions with the aftermarket. The opportunity to hear firsthand from the people who manage the programs was invaluable.

“Having seven executives from GM, Ford and Chrysler participate in the PRO LRP this year demonstrates how we all can gain by an open dialogue,” said Bill North, business development manager of the car and light truck division for Webasto Product North America and a member of the PRO Select Committee. “The insight gained by industry members who attended this event was priceless, as we all obtained a new understanding of the current dynamic within the accessory divisions of each car company. I look forward to an ongoing relationship with these car companies, and they have all pledged to participate with us again.”

The OEM representatives talked openly about how they see themselves fitting into the aftermarket.

PRO held its annual Long-Range Planning Meeting on June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. A highlight of the meeting was a panel discussion with seven invited representatives from Ford, GM and Chrysler. All of the panelists represented the OEM parts and accessory divisions, and the discussion centered on the OEMs’ relationship with the aftermarket. On the panel were Warren Nally, Jim Abraham and Kevin Powell from Ford Motor Co., Jeff Edwards and Sandor Piszar from GM and Tom Dailey and Doug Johnson from Mopar.

“This was the first time I attended a SEMA PRO event,” said Jim Abraham with Ford vehicle personalization. “I was thoroughly impressed with the organization, knowledge and candor of members I was able to interact with. Forums such as this enable a dialogue that is mutually beneficial to both the auto manufacturers and the auto aftermarket companies.”
PRO members were quick to discuss the SEMA ProPledge warranty program with the OEM representatives as an indicator of how dedicated the restyling industry is in pursuit of quality.

“As a veteran restyler, I would say the recent PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting stood out as one of the most productive in recent memory,” said Joey Johnston of Tops & Trends Inc. and a PRO Select Committee member. “The ability for PRO members to interact directly with a panel of senior OEM managers from Chrysler, Ford and GM was ground-breaking. PRO members and the OEM panel openly discussed opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for each. OEM panel members welcomed the new SEMA ProPledge initiative as a step in the right direction, thereby helping ensure customers have access to quality aftermarket products and installations.”

“As a representative of the OEM vehicle personalization and accessories world, I see the ProPledge program as a value add and an impressive selling feature because it helps to reinforce the quality and peace-of-mind philosophy that the automotive aftermarket is capable of delivering,” Ford’s Abraham said. 

 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Are You Ready for NovemberFest?

	The PRO Industry Reception, dubbed NovemberFest, will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, Ballroom D.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is pleased to announce NovemberFest, the PRO industry awards reception and celebration at the SEMA Show. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton, ballroom D. “PRO has traditionally held its industry reception at the Spring Expo,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “With the absence of a spring event, it was natural to move our annual awards presentation to the SEMA Show.”

“We wanted to do more than just add another reception to the SEMA Show activity schedule,” added Jeff Fink, PRO Select Committee member and reception task force chairman. “The event name was suggested at our Long-Range Planning Meeting in June, and everyone jumped on it. Select Committee member companies stepped forward and helped sponsor the event, obtained a DJ and even found a sponsor for a commemorative T-shirt that will be handed to each reception attendee. The reception should be a great beginning to another memorable SEMA Show week.”

A German-themed food menu, a DJ and presentation of the PRO industry awards will also be features of the inaugural PRO NovemberFest industry reception. Four awards will be presented: Manufacturer of the Year, Restyler of the Year, the Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Awards.


PRO Booth

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are encouraged to stop by the PRO booth located in the North Hall at space 11259. The PRO booth is conveniently located directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge area and may be used as a convenient meeting place for PRO members. SEMA staff and PRO Select Committee members will be on hand throughout the course of the Show to answer questions and enroll new members. Any new PRO member signed up at the PRO booth will receive a complimentary PRO Sales Training Manual: a PRO Business Development Guidebook and the PRO DVD “Vehicle Accessorization: The Fast Track to Greater Profits.”

“The PRO booth is a great place to meet and greet fellow council members as well as prospective members and to get acquainted with your colleagues who serve on the Select Committee,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns.

Located in the North Hall at booth #11259, directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge, the PRO booth will once again provide a convenient meeting and resting place for the council’s members.

General Membership Meeting

Another PRO council activity on tap for SEMA Show 2009 is a general membership meeting. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 5, from 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. in meeting rooms N219–N222 of the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This meeting is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest PRO council plans and to lend your input to future projects. The PRO council is dedicated to helping all PRO members gear up for the future, and they need your voice. Please plan to attend! 

 

 

PRO Delivers Groundbreaking LRP With OEM Panel Discussion

PRO council members in attendance at the June Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting acknowledged the get-together as ground-breaking in establishing relationships between the automakers and the restyling industry. Each of the Detroit Big Three have a slightly different approach to company interactions with the aftermarket. The opportunity to hear firsthand from the people who manage the programs was invaluable.

“Having seven executives from GM, Ford and Chrysler participate in the PRO LRP this year demonstrates how we all can gain by an open dialogue,” said Bill North, business development manager of the car and light truck division for Webasto Product North America and a member of the PRO Select Committee. “The insight gained by industry members who attended this event was priceless, as we all obtained a new understanding of the current dynamic within the accessory divisions of each car company. I look forward to an ongoing relationship with these car companies, and they have all pledged to participate with us again.”

The OEM representatives talked openly about how they see themselves fitting into the aftermarket.

PRO held its annual Long-Range Planning Meeting on June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. A highlight of the meeting was a panel discussion with seven invited representatives from Ford, GM and Chrysler. All of the panelists represented the OEM parts and accessory divisions, and the discussion centered on the OEMs’ relationship with the aftermarket. On the panel were Warren Nally, Jim Abraham and Kevin Powell from Ford Motor Co., Jeff Edwards and Sandor Piszar from GM and Tom Dailey and Doug Johnson from Mopar.

“This was the first time I attended a SEMA PRO event,” said Jim Abraham with Ford vehicle personalization. “I was thoroughly impressed with the organization, knowledge and candor of members I was able to interact with. Forums such as this enable a dialogue that is mutually beneficial to both the auto manufacturers and the auto aftermarket companies.”
PRO members were quick to discuss the SEMA ProPledge warranty program with the OEM representatives as an indicator of how dedicated the restyling industry is in pursuit of quality.

“As a veteran restyler, I would say the recent PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting stood out as one of the most productive in recent memory,” said Joey Johnston of Tops & Trends Inc. and a PRO Select Committee member. “The ability for PRO members to interact directly with a panel of senior OEM managers from Chrysler, Ford and GM was ground-breaking. PRO members and the OEM panel openly discussed opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for each. OEM panel members welcomed the new SEMA ProPledge initiative as a step in the right direction, thereby helping ensure customers have access to quality aftermarket products and installations.”

“As a representative of the OEM vehicle personalization and accessories world, I see the ProPledge program as a value add and an impressive selling feature because it helps to reinforce the quality and peace-of-mind philosophy that the automotive aftermarket is capable of delivering,” Ford’s Abraham said. 

 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Are You Ready for NovemberFest?

	The PRO Industry Reception, dubbed NovemberFest, will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, Ballroom D.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is pleased to announce NovemberFest, the PRO industry awards reception and celebration at the SEMA Show. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton, ballroom D. “PRO has traditionally held its industry reception at the Spring Expo,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “With the absence of a spring event, it was natural to move our annual awards presentation to the SEMA Show.”

“We wanted to do more than just add another reception to the SEMA Show activity schedule,” added Jeff Fink, PRO Select Committee member and reception task force chairman. “The event name was suggested at our Long-Range Planning Meeting in June, and everyone jumped on it. Select Committee member companies stepped forward and helped sponsor the event, obtained a DJ and even found a sponsor for a commemorative T-shirt that will be handed to each reception attendee. The reception should be a great beginning to another memorable SEMA Show week.”

A German-themed food menu, a DJ and presentation of the PRO industry awards will also be features of the inaugural PRO NovemberFest industry reception. Four awards will be presented: Manufacturer of the Year, Restyler of the Year, the Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Awards.


PRO Booth

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are encouraged to stop by the PRO booth located in the North Hall at space 11259. The PRO booth is conveniently located directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge area and may be used as a convenient meeting place for PRO members. SEMA staff and PRO Select Committee members will be on hand throughout the course of the Show to answer questions and enroll new members. Any new PRO member signed up at the PRO booth will receive a complimentary PRO Sales Training Manual: a PRO Business Development Guidebook and the PRO DVD “Vehicle Accessorization: The Fast Track to Greater Profits.”

“The PRO booth is a great place to meet and greet fellow council members as well as prospective members and to get acquainted with your colleagues who serve on the Select Committee,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns.

Located in the North Hall at booth #11259, directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge, the PRO booth will once again provide a convenient meeting and resting place for the council’s members.

General Membership Meeting

Another PRO council activity on tap for SEMA Show 2009 is a general membership meeting. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 5, from 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. in meeting rooms N219–N222 of the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This meeting is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest PRO council plans and to lend your input to future projects. The PRO council is dedicated to helping all PRO members gear up for the future, and they need your voice. Please plan to attend! 

 

 

PRO Delivers Groundbreaking LRP With OEM Panel Discussion

PRO council members in attendance at the June Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting acknowledged the get-together as ground-breaking in establishing relationships between the automakers and the restyling industry. Each of the Detroit Big Three have a slightly different approach to company interactions with the aftermarket. The opportunity to hear firsthand from the people who manage the programs was invaluable.

“Having seven executives from GM, Ford and Chrysler participate in the PRO LRP this year demonstrates how we all can gain by an open dialogue,” said Bill North, business development manager of the car and light truck division for Webasto Product North America and a member of the PRO Select Committee. “The insight gained by industry members who attended this event was priceless, as we all obtained a new understanding of the current dynamic within the accessory divisions of each car company. I look forward to an ongoing relationship with these car companies, and they have all pledged to participate with us again.”

The OEM representatives talked openly about how they see themselves fitting into the aftermarket.

PRO held its annual Long-Range Planning Meeting on June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. A highlight of the meeting was a panel discussion with seven invited representatives from Ford, GM and Chrysler. All of the panelists represented the OEM parts and accessory divisions, and the discussion centered on the OEMs’ relationship with the aftermarket. On the panel were Warren Nally, Jim Abraham and Kevin Powell from Ford Motor Co., Jeff Edwards and Sandor Piszar from GM and Tom Dailey and Doug Johnson from Mopar.

“This was the first time I attended a SEMA PRO event,” said Jim Abraham with Ford vehicle personalization. “I was thoroughly impressed with the organization, knowledge and candor of members I was able to interact with. Forums such as this enable a dialogue that is mutually beneficial to both the auto manufacturers and the auto aftermarket companies.”
PRO members were quick to discuss the SEMA ProPledge warranty program with the OEM representatives as an indicator of how dedicated the restyling industry is in pursuit of quality.

“As a veteran restyler, I would say the recent PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting stood out as one of the most productive in recent memory,” said Joey Johnston of Tops & Trends Inc. and a PRO Select Committee member. “The ability for PRO members to interact directly with a panel of senior OEM managers from Chrysler, Ford and GM was ground-breaking. PRO members and the OEM panel openly discussed opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for each. OEM panel members welcomed the new SEMA ProPledge initiative as a step in the right direction, thereby helping ensure customers have access to quality aftermarket products and installations.”

“As a representative of the OEM vehicle personalization and accessories world, I see the ProPledge program as a value add and an impressive selling feature because it helps to reinforce the quality and peace-of-mind philosophy that the automotive aftermarket is capable of delivering,” Ford’s Abraham said. 

 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Are You Ready for NovemberFest?

	The PRO Industry Reception, dubbed NovemberFest, will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, Ballroom D.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is pleased to announce NovemberFest, the PRO industry awards reception and celebration at the SEMA Show. The event takes place on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton, ballroom D. “PRO has traditionally held its industry reception at the Spring Expo,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “With the absence of a spring event, it was natural to move our annual awards presentation to the SEMA Show.”

“We wanted to do more than just add another reception to the SEMA Show activity schedule,” added Jeff Fink, PRO Select Committee member and reception task force chairman. “The event name was suggested at our Long-Range Planning Meeting in June, and everyone jumped on it. Select Committee member companies stepped forward and helped sponsor the event, obtained a DJ and even found a sponsor for a commemorative T-shirt that will be handed to each reception attendee. The reception should be a great beginning to another memorable SEMA Show week.”

A German-themed food menu, a DJ and presentation of the PRO industry awards will also be features of the inaugural PRO NovemberFest industry reception. Four awards will be presented: Manufacturer of the Year, Restyler of the Year, the Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Awards.


PRO Booth

SEMA Show 2009 attendees are encouraged to stop by the PRO booth located in the North Hall at space 11259. The PRO booth is conveniently located directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge area and may be used as a convenient meeting place for PRO members. SEMA staff and PRO Select Committee members will be on hand throughout the course of the Show to answer questions and enroll new members. Any new PRO member signed up at the PRO booth will receive a complimentary PRO Sales Training Manual: a PRO Business Development Guidebook and the PRO DVD “Vehicle Accessorization: The Fast Track to Greater Profits.”

“The PRO booth is a great place to meet and greet fellow council members as well as prospective members and to get acquainted with your colleagues who serve on the Select Committee,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns.

Located in the North Hall at booth #11259, directly across from the Dealer Day Lounge, the PRO booth will once again provide a convenient meeting and resting place for the council’s members.

General Membership Meeting

Another PRO council activity on tap for SEMA Show 2009 is a general membership meeting. The meeting will take place on Thursday, November 5, from 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. in meeting rooms N219–N222 of the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This meeting is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest PRO council plans and to lend your input to future projects. The PRO council is dedicated to helping all PRO members gear up for the future, and they need your voice. Please plan to attend! 

 

 

PRO Delivers Groundbreaking LRP With OEM Panel Discussion

PRO council members in attendance at the June Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting acknowledged the get-together as ground-breaking in establishing relationships between the automakers and the restyling industry. Each of the Detroit Big Three have a slightly different approach to company interactions with the aftermarket. The opportunity to hear firsthand from the people who manage the programs was invaluable.

“Having seven executives from GM, Ford and Chrysler participate in the PRO LRP this year demonstrates how we all can gain by an open dialogue,” said Bill North, business development manager of the car and light truck division for Webasto Product North America and a member of the PRO Select Committee. “The insight gained by industry members who attended this event was priceless, as we all obtained a new understanding of the current dynamic within the accessory divisions of each car company. I look forward to an ongoing relationship with these car companies, and they have all pledged to participate with us again.”

The OEM representatives talked openly about how they see themselves fitting into the aftermarket.

PRO held its annual Long-Range Planning Meeting on June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. A highlight of the meeting was a panel discussion with seven invited representatives from Ford, GM and Chrysler. All of the panelists represented the OEM parts and accessory divisions, and the discussion centered on the OEMs’ relationship with the aftermarket. On the panel were Warren Nally, Jim Abraham and Kevin Powell from Ford Motor Co., Jeff Edwards and Sandor Piszar from GM and Tom Dailey and Doug Johnson from Mopar.

“This was the first time I attended a SEMA PRO event,” said Jim Abraham with Ford vehicle personalization. “I was thoroughly impressed with the organization, knowledge and candor of members I was able to interact with. Forums such as this enable a dialogue that is mutually beneficial to both the auto manufacturers and the auto aftermarket companies.”
PRO members were quick to discuss the SEMA ProPledge warranty program with the OEM representatives as an indicator of how dedicated the restyling industry is in pursuit of quality.

“As a veteran restyler, I would say the recent PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting stood out as one of the most productive in recent memory,” said Joey Johnston of Tops & Trends Inc. and a PRO Select Committee member. “The ability for PRO members to interact directly with a panel of senior OEM managers from Chrysler, Ford and GM was ground-breaking. PRO members and the OEM panel openly discussed opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for each. OEM panel members welcomed the new SEMA ProPledge initiative as a step in the right direction, thereby helping ensure customers have access to quality aftermarket products and installations.”

“As a representative of the OEM vehicle personalization and accessories world, I see the ProPledge program as a value add and an impressive selling feature because it helps to reinforce the quality and peace-of-mind philosophy that the automotive aftermarket is capable of delivering,” Ford’s Abraham said. 

 

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Street Performance Council to Recognize Industry Leaders and Businesses

The SPC reception provides attendees with a great networking opportunity in a lounge atmosphere and an opportunity for feedback from those within the street-performance market on how the council can best provide support for the industry. Among the evening’s festivities will be the presentation of the council awards, including the SPC Business of the Year, Person of the Year, Industry Icon and President’s Award.

The Street Performance Council (SPC) reception will be held on Wednesday, November 5, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. during the 2009 SEMA Show. Well-attended by members and guests of the organization, the reception provides industry professionals with a great networking opportunity in a lounge setting.

“The SPC reception provides a casual, relaxing atmosphere where people can freely interact and network with many of their peers,” said SPC Chairman Tracie Nuñez. “The event provides a great opportunity for feedback from those within the street-performance market on how the council can best provide support for the industry.”

Among the evening’s festivities will be the presentation of the council awards, including the SPC Business of the Year, Person of the Year, Industry Icon and President’s Award.

The SPC Business of the Year honor is presented each year to a company that has provided innovation and leadership in the street-performance scene. The nominees are companies that have made an extra effort to provide quality and exciting products, and they must have made substantial contributions to the street-performance industry during the past year.

The SPC Person of the Year award is given to an individual who has made a significant impact on the street-performance industry, but has also made an extra effort above and beyond what was asked to complete his or her job. The nominees each year are people whose creativity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have made a substantial contribution to the street-performance industry during the previous 12 months.

Previous Award Winners
Business of the Year 2008 Motovicity Distribution 2007 ProMotion Distributing 2006 Scion 2005 AEM		Industry Icon 2008 Frank Choi International Drag Racing Association 2007 Richard Schroeder Eagle Vista Productions 2006 Michael Ferrara Import Drag RacingCircuit Inc. (IDRC)
Person of the Year 2008 Ed Burgy 2007 Tracie Nuñez 2006 Stephan Papadakis 2005 Neil Tjin 2004 Bob Kern 2003 Richard Goodwin 2002 Brian Horowitz 2001 Kirk Miller 2000 Michael Meyers		President’s Award 2008 Chris Thomson 2008 Dick Hill

The SPC Industry Icon award was established to acknowledge a person who has positively impacted the image of the street-performance industry and the lifestyle that it generates. The nominees must have been in the industry for at least a decade, be well known and fully represent the industry through their personal contributions beyond the call of duty in their jobs.

Finally, the SPC President’s Award was designed to honor an individual or a company that has made a significant contribution to the industry over the past year. It was first given out in 2008.

For more information on the SPC Reception and awards, contact Jason Tolleson.

 

SPC Delivers Another Successful Internet Symposium

Forward-looking companies obtained invaluable information for honing their online marketing skills at the SPC’s third annual Internet Symposium. The event included multiple breakout sessions on topics such as search-engine optimization and how to track online buyer acquisitions and sales and concluded with a panel discussion of online strategies for companies on a limited budget.

A primary mission of the Street Performance Council is to bring the latest trends and educational programs to SEMA members. These efforts took center stage at the SPC’s third annual Internet Symposium. Held in conjunction with SEMA Leadership Days in Pasadena, California on August 1, 2009, the Symposium provided valuable resources for attendees seeking to increase and improve their online presence.

The event was kicked off with an introductory session on how the specialty-equipment market is and will be embracing the Internet as the sales and business solution of the future. It was followed by multiple breakout sessions that included topics such as search-engine optimization, how to create killer videos and how to track online buyer acquisitions and sales. The event concluded with a panel made up of key marketing principles discussing online strategies for companies on a limited budget.

“With 16 presenters in eight different sessions, participants were given a wealth of information in one event,” said Nuñez. “Each session covered key areas in developing and expanding online business opportunities.”

Planning is already underway for the 2010 Internet Symposium. Members of the SPC Select Committee welcome suggested topics and other recommendations for next year’s event. Please send your comments to SPC Council Director Jason Tolleson.

SEMA Member News - November/December 2009

Street Performance Council to Recognize Industry Leaders and Businesses

The SPC reception provides attendees with a great networking opportunity in a lounge atmosphere and an opportunity for feedback from those within the street-performance market on how the council can best provide support for the industry. Among the evening’s festivities will be the presentation of the council awards, including the SPC Business of the Year, Person of the Year, Industry Icon and President’s Award.

The Street Performance Council (SPC) reception will be held on Wednesday, November 5, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. during the 2009 SEMA Show. Well-attended by members and guests of the organization, the reception provides industry professionals with a great networking opportunity in a lounge setting.

“The SPC reception provides a casual, relaxing atmosphere where people can freely interact and network with many of their peers,” said SPC Chairman Tracie Nuñez. “The event provides a great opportunity for feedback from those within the street-performance market on how the council can best provide support for the industry.”

Among the evening’s festivities will be the presentation of the council awards, including the SPC Business of the Year, Person of the Year, Industry Icon and President’s Award.

The SPC Business of the Year honor is presented each year to a company that has provided innovation and leadership in the street-performance scene. The nominees are companies that have made an extra effort to provide quality and exciting products, and they must have made substantial contributions to the street-performance industry during the past year.

The SPC Person of the Year award is given to an individual who has made a significant impact on the street-performance industry, but has also made an extra effort above and beyond what was asked to complete his or her job. The nominees each year are people whose creativity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have made a substantial contribution to the street-performance industry during the previous 12 months.

Previous Award Winners
Business of the Year 2008 Motovicity Distribution 2007 ProMotion Distributing 2006 Scion 2005 AEM		Industry Icon 2008 Frank Choi International Drag Racing Association 2007 Richard Schroeder Eagle Vista Productions 2006 Michael Ferrara Import Drag RacingCircuit Inc. (IDRC)
Person of the Year 2008 Ed Burgy 2007 Tracie Nuñez 2006 Stephan Papadakis 2005 Neil Tjin 2004 Bob Kern 2003 Richard Goodwin 2002 Brian Horowitz 2001 Kirk Miller 2000 Michael Meyers		President’s Award 2008 Chris Thomson 2008 Dick Hill

The SPC Industry Icon award was established to acknowledge a person who has positively impacted the image of the street-performance industry and the lifestyle that it generates. The nominees must have been in the industry for at least a decade, be well known and fully represent the industry through their personal contributions beyond the call of duty in their jobs.

Finally, the SPC President’s Award was designed to honor an individual or a company that has made a significant contribution to the industry over the past year. It was first given out in 2008.

For more information on the SPC Reception and awards, contact Jason Tolleson.

 

SPC Delivers Another Successful Internet Symposium

Forward-looking companies obtained invaluable information for honing their online marketing skills at the SPC’s third annual Internet Symposium. The event included multiple breakout sessions on topics such as search-engine optimization and how to track online buyer acquisitions and sales and concluded with a panel discussion of online strategies for companies on a limited budget.

A primary mission of the Street Performance Council is to bring the latest trends and educational programs to SEMA members. These efforts took center stage at the SPC’s third annual Internet Symposium. Held in conjunction with SEMA Leadership Days in Pasadena, California on August 1, 2009, the Symposium provided valuable resources for attendees seeking to increase and improve their online presence.

The event was kicked off with an introductory session on how the specialty-equipment market is and will be embracing the Internet as the sales and business solution of the future. It was followed by multiple breakout sessions that included topics such as search-engine optimization, how to create killer videos and how to track online buyer acquisitions and sales. The event concluded with a panel made up of key marketing principles discussing online strategies for companies on a limited budget.

“With 16 presenters in eight different sessions, participants were given a wealth of information in one event,” said Nuñez. “Each session covered key areas in developing and expanding online business opportunities.”

Planning is already underway for the 2010 Internet Symposium. Members of the SPC Select Committee welcome suggested topics and other recommendations for next year’s event. Please send your comments to SPC Council Director Jason Tolleson.