By SEMA News Editors

With thousands of media from around the world looking for the latest automotive trends, technology and cutting-edge products at the 2026 SEMA Show––November 3-6, Las Vegas––exhibitors can get a jump-start on connecting with journalists, creating brand awareness and preparing for the Show.

Below are free tools, strategies and resources to help exhibitors promote their brands, connect with media and manage important Show logistics:

• Join a free Freeman webinar, September 14, at 1:30 p.m. EDT/10:30 a.m. PDT: Get expert guidance on the tools and resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors, including cost-saving tips, material handling and freight services, lead retrieval and customer management solutions. The live webinar is once again hosted by Cassandra Cothron, the exhibitor education manager for official SEMA Show partner Freeman. It will also cover strategies for highlighting new products and attracting and engaging customers, with an opportunity to get answers to exhibit-related questions. Register for the 2026 SEMA Show Freeman Webinar here.
• Post press releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center: By posting news releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center, exhibitors ensure that reporters looking for Show-related news don't miss out on their story. Posting to the Online Media Center can also generate coverage from SEMA's publications and social media outlets. Post your release at semashow.com/press-release. 
• Host a press conference: If your company is announcing a new product or service at the SEMA Show, a press conference could generate additional media interest. Hosting a press conference in your booth offers media the opportunity to learn about your new product at a designated time. Submit a Press Conference Form online through the Exhibitor Dashboard.  
• Vehicle Reveal (New for 2026): Exhibitors unveiling a vehicle build can submit a Vehicle Reveal Form through their Exhibitor Dashboard to have their reveal included in a list shared with media.  
• Tell your social media followers: Promote your presence with free graphics, copy templates, logos and press release tools––all sized and ready to post at semashow.com/digital-tools.
• Create a press release or press kit: It's never too early to begin working on a press release or press kit to distribute at the SEMA Show. In addition to having press kits available to reporters in your booth, exhibitors can place physical press kits and releases in the SEMA Show Media Center, located in Room S219, on the Skybridge between South and Central Halls, at no cost.

Want even more resources? The Exhibitor Service Manual at semashow.com/esm has everything an exhibitor needs to maximize ROI at the SEMA Show.

Have public relations questions? Contact the SEMA Show Public Relations team at pr@sema.org.  

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.  

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA member companies are invited to participate in an upcoming career fair that will connect employers with the next generation of engineering talent.

Taking place Saturday, September 26, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. ET at the SEMA Garage Detroit, the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Career Fair is designed to connect automotive aftermarket businesses with engineering students who are actively exploring career opportunities in the industry.

Now in its fourth year, the ETTN Career Fair at the SEMA Garage Detroit has built a strong reputation for helping companies connect with qualified engineering students. Whether companies are looking to fill current openings, build a talent pipeline for future growth or increase awareness of career opportunities within their organization, the event provides a valuable platform for engagement.

In addition to hosting a table at the career fair, participating companies will have the opportunity to tour the SEMA Garage and learn more about the tools, technology and services available to help bring products to market faster.

Participation is free for SEMA member companies. Secure a spot.  

By SEMA News Editors

From hands-on technical education to business-focused programming, SEMA Show partners I-CAR, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and the Tire Industry Association (TIA) will bring valuable opportunities to SEMA Week, November 3–6, in Las Vegas. (Not yet registered for the 2026 SEMA Show? Get started here).

Here's a look at some of the programming collision repair professionals can expect on the SEMA Collision Repair & Refinish Stage in booth #32145 in the Upper South Hall.

I-CAR Focuses on Technical Skill Advancement at SEMA 2026

In addition to the sessions and demonstrations set for the SEMA Collision Repair Stage in booth #32145 in the Upper South Hall, I-CAR will present several collision-repair training sessions designed to help professionals advance their technical skills and perform complete, safe and quality repairs, with dozens of sessions including:

• GMA/MIG Welding Basics
  • Tuesday, November 3, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. PST / Wednesday, November 4, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. PST / Thursday, November 5, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. PST
  • Speaker: Jaime Shewbridge of I-CAR
  • Location: S225
  • Cost: $50
• GMA/MIG Welding Advanced Features
  • Thursday, November 5, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PST
  • Speaker: Jaime Shewbridge of I-CAR
  • Location: S225
  • Cost: $50
• Requirements and Considerations for ADAS Calibration
  • Tuesday, November 3, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. PST
  • Speaker: Ranson Bandy of I-CAR
  • Location: S224
  • Cost: $46
• Introductions to Diagnostics and Scan Tools
  • Tuesday, November 3, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PST/Tuesday, November 3, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PST/Wednesday, November 4, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PST/Thursday, November 5, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PST/Thursday, November 5, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PT
  • Speaker: Ranson Bandy of I-CAR
  • Location: S224
  • Cost: $62
• Understanding the Blueprinting Process
  • Tuesday, November 3, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PST/Wednesday, November 4, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. PST / Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PST/Thursday, November 5, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. PT 
  • Speaker: Jim Matherly of I-CAR
  • Location: S225
  • Cost: $55
• Glue Pull Repair (GPR)
  • Tuesday, November 3, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PT / Wednesday, November 4, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PST/Wednesday, November 4, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PST/Thursday, November 5, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm PST
  • Speaker: Jim Matherly of I-CAR
  • Location: S225
  • Cost: $46

Registration for I-CAR sessions, including more options featuring specially priced bundles, is available when registering for the SEMA Show. Already registered? Visit the Registration Resource Center and click "Add/View Education and Events."

Attendees can also visit I-CAR booth #33139 to learn more about Gold Class recognition, connect with industry experts and see live welding demonstrations.

Enter I-CAR's Giveaway Before the September 15 Deadline

One I-CAR Platinum professional and a guest could experience the 2026 SEMA Show as VIPs through The Platinum Experience 2026 SEMA Giveaway. The prize includes airfare, hotel accommodations, monorail passes, a cash stipend and official on-site recognition from I-CAR.

Collision repair professionals who already hold I-CAR Platinum status, as well as those who achieve Platinum status by the deadline, are eligible to enter. Bonus entries are also available through select I-CAR social-media and text-message activities.

Entries are open through September 15.

SCRS Brings Business and Technical Education

In addition to the sessions on the SEMA Collision Repair Stage, SCRS is offering a slate of paid sessions to SEMA Showgoers, including sessions in the SCRS: Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series, including:

• Fix Your Shop's Digital Marketing: A Live Advertising Workshop
• Reclaiming Technical Authority: The Collision Shop's Fiduciary Role
• Repair Planning That Pays: Protecting Revenue Through Research
• Beyond the Class: Turning Training into Real Shop Performance
• Capturing Mechanical Labor: Being Intentional About the Opportunity
• The Estimator Bottleneck: How Modern Shops Shape Mindset for Complex Repairs
• Bringing Mechanical Repairs In-House
• Repair Transparency: The Key to Defensible Repairs and Better Outcomes
• Run Your Collision Business Like a Fortune 100 Company
• Own It: The Difference Between Responsibility and Accountability
• Stop Guessing, Start Earning: Building Bulletproof Repair Plans
• The 3 Daily Mistakes Repair Shops Make That Empower Insurers
• Financial Success Starts with a Plan: Turning Numbers into Action
• Speak Their Language: Communication That Actually Works in a Body Shop
• The Profit & Control Playbook: Bringing Auto Glass In-House 

In addition, SCRS will also host its IDEAS Collide Showcase featuring speakers including Ryan Taylor of BodyShop Booster; Sean Preston of Coverall Law; Joel Adcock of Revv; Brian Herron of Opus IVS; Justin Allen of Hunter Engineering; Daniel Burkholder of BodyShop Marketing; and Maria Quintero of Body Builders Automotive. The SCRS IDEAS Collide Showcase takes place Wednesday, November 4, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in S229.

The SCRS OEM Summit also returns with three separate sessions led by Lee White of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg on Thursday, November 5, beginning at 12:30 p.m. PST.

Registration for all SCRS sessions, including a "best value" full-series pass, is available when registering for the SEMA Show. Already registered for SEMA? Visit the Registration Resource Center and click "Add/View Education and Events."

The organization is also working with SEMA and I-CAR on an expanded SEMA ADAS Showcase, which will bring repair professionals closer to the vehicle technologies, engineering and repair considerations shaping the collision industry. Additional details on the SEMA ADAS Showcase will also be announced closer to the event.

View the SCRS booth #31147 on the SEMA Show floorplan.

TIA Returns with Global Tire Expo

The Global Tire Expo (GTE), powered by TIA, will return to the Lower South Hall, bringing together tire dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, retreaders, recyclers and service professionals. (Read "Tires and Wheels Accelerate Momentum for 2026 SEMA Show" for more information on the GTE).

In addition, TIA will present free educational sessions at this year's SEMA Show in Room S226, including:

• Tires at 10: Passenger and Light Truck Tire Conditions Analysis
  • Tuesday, November 3, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST
  • Speakers: Kevin Rohlwing, Jose Moreno and Ryan Graves of TIA
  • Location: S226
• Truck Tires TPMS at 10: TPMS in Commercial Truck Tires
  • Tuesday, November 3, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST
  • Speaker: Shawn Pease of TIA
  • Location: S227
• Tires at 2: ADAS and the Future of Custom Tire and Wheel Fitments
  • Tuesday, November 3, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PST
  • Speakers: Kevin Rohlwing and Roy Littlefield IV of TIA
  • Location: S226
• TPMS at 10: Curing the TPMS Pain Points
  • Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST
  • Speaker: Shawn Pease of TIA
  • Location: S226
• Truck Tires at 10: Emergency Road Service Safety
  • Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST
  • Speaker: Kevin Rohlwing of TIA
  • Location: S227
• Management at 2: Making Customer Service Part of Your Brand 
  • Wednesday, November 4, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. PST
  • Speaker: Kevin Rohlwing of TIA
  • Location: S226

Interested attendees are encouraged to add sessions to their badge when registering for the 2026 SEMA Show. Already registered? Visit the Registration Resource Center and click "Add/View Education and Events" and search through different education tracks, find free or paid options, and more.

TIA networking opportunities will also include:

• Tire Industry Networking Reception
  • Monday, November 2, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. PST
  • Location: Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
• TIA Booth Happy Hour
  • Tuesday, November 3, 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST
  • Location: TIA booth #41067

View the TIA booth #40067 and the TIA booth #41067 on the SEMA Show floorplan. For complete details on TIA's educational sessions, networking events, hotel accommodations and the latest GTE updates, visit tireindustry.org/events/gte-2026.

Explore the Expanded Collision and Tools Space at the SEMA Show

Business growth requires the right tools and the right training. SEMA Showgoers can explore the brand-new dedicated Collision and Tools section alongside the New Products Showcase and the TIA booths in South Hall Lower, then head upstairs to South Hall Upper to join I-CAR, SCRA and TIA for world-class technical education.

Get the Complete SEMA Show 2026 Preview in SEMA Magazine

The collision repair and tire education programming highlighted here is just a sneak peek. Read the complete details in The Show Guide issue of SEMA Magazine, going to print this November in time for the SEMA Show.

Want to start reading SEMA now at no cost online? Claim your complimentary subscription:

• Claim your coupon voucher here.
• Fill in the mandatory fields and questions regarding your automotive interests.
• Click subscribe.
• Download the SEMA Magazine app in the App Store or on Google Play, or visit sema.zinioapps.com on a desktop.
• Sign in to access more than a year's worth of valuable industry knowledge.
• Start reading!

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

By SEMA News Editors

H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President (center); Matt Daigle, SEMA senior director of communications-government affairs (second from right); and Luis Morales, SEMA Director, vehicle technology and product-dt vehicle technology (right).

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organizations worldwide, has announced SEMA as champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

Announced at the FIA American Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, SEMA received the award for its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) research initiative, helping the automotive industry better understand how vehicle modifications interact with modern safety technologies. 

As ADAS technologies become standard in modern vehicles, uncertainty remains around how aftermarket modifications, repairs, and recalibration procedures can affect the performance of critical safety systems. SEMA's initiative addresses this challenge through independent, evidence-based research, testing, and industry collaboration. 

The program combines controlled laboratory testing, real-world validation and policy engagement to generate objective data that supports manufacturers, regulators, repair businesses, and vehicle owners.

Through this work, SEMA is helping ensure that life-saving safety technologies continue to function as intended while supporting responsible innovation across the automotive aftermarket.

"Congratulations to SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA on being named a Region III Champion in this year's FIA Innovation Challenge," said FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "SEMA's ADAS research initiative demonstrates how Member Clubs and organizations can play an important role in helping industry and policymakers understand emerging technologies, ensuring innovation continues to advance alongside road safety."

 "When meeting current and future mobility challenges, our Member Clubs are our greatest assets, enabling us to support road users with genuine local understanding," said Tim Shearman, deputy president for automobile mobility and tourism. "SEMA is demonstrating how independent research and industry collaboration can provide the evidence, knowledge, and confidence needed to support innovation while maintaining high standards of safety for road users."

"As vehicle technologies become more sophisticated, it is essential that industry, regulators, and consumers have access to clear and reliable information to support informed decision-making," said FIA Region III President Frank Fotia. "Through its ADAS research initiative, SEMA is helping build that understanding, creating practical pathways that support safety, encourage innovation and benefit the wider mobility ecosystem."

"As advanced driver assistance systems become standard across the vehicle fleet, the automotive industry faces a shared responsibility to ensure innovation and safety continue to move forward together," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "By providing independent, evidence-based insights, our research is helping close critical knowledge gaps for manufacturers, policymakers and vehicle owners as they continue to use and interact with these potentially lifesaving systems on the road." 

SEMA joins the Alberta Motor Association (AMA, Canada) and the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA, Jamaica), which have also been named Region III Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

A global judging panel will now select one Global Winner from these three champions, who will receive their award at FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December.

Now in its third year, the FIA Innovation Challenge has seen member clubs throughout Region III continue to demonstrate leadership and innovation in delivering safer, more sustainable and more affordable mobility solutions. 

By SEMA News Editors

H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President (center); Matt Daigle, SEMA senior director of communications-government affairs (second from right); and Luis Morales, SEMA Director, vehicle technology and product-dt vehicle technology (right).

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport and the federation for mobility organizations worldwide, has announced SEMA as champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

Announced at the FIA American Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, SEMA received the award for its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) research initiative, helping the automotive industry better understand how vehicle modifications interact with modern safety technologies. 

As ADAS technologies become standard in modern vehicles, uncertainty remains around how aftermarket modifications, repairs, and recalibration procedures can affect the performance of critical safety systems. SEMA's initiative addresses this challenge through independent, evidence-based research, testing, and industry collaboration. 

The program combines controlled laboratory testing, real-world validation and policy engagement to generate objective data that supports manufacturers, regulators, repair businesses, and vehicle owners.

Through this work, SEMA is helping ensure that life-saving safety technologies continue to function as intended while supporting responsible innovation across the automotive aftermarket.

"Congratulations to SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA on being named a Region III Champion in this year's FIA Innovation Challenge," said FIA President H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "SEMA's ADAS research initiative demonstrates how Member Clubs and organizations can play an important role in helping industry and policymakers understand emerging technologies, ensuring innovation continues to advance alongside road safety."

 "When meeting current and future mobility challenges, our Member Clubs are our greatest assets, enabling us to support road users with genuine local understanding," said Tim Shearman, deputy president for automobile mobility and tourism. "SEMA is demonstrating how independent research and industry collaboration can provide the evidence, knowledge, and confidence needed to support innovation while maintaining high standards of safety for road users."

"As vehicle technologies become more sophisticated, it is essential that industry, regulators, and consumers have access to clear and reliable information to support informed decision-making," said FIA Region III President Frank Fotia. "Through its ADAS research initiative, SEMA is helping build that understanding, creating practical pathways that support safety, encourage innovation and benefit the wider mobility ecosystem."

"As advanced driver assistance systems become standard across the vehicle fleet, the automotive industry faces a shared responsibility to ensure innovation and safety continue to move forward together," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "By providing independent, evidence-based insights, our research is helping close critical knowledge gaps for manufacturers, policymakers and vehicle owners as they continue to use and interact with these potentially lifesaving systems on the road." 

SEMA joins the Alberta Motor Association (AMA, Canada) and the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA, Jamaica), which have also been named Region III Champions of the FIA Innovation Challenge 2026.

A global judging panel will now select one Global Winner from these three champions, who will receive their award at FIA General Assemblies week in Shanghai, China, in December.

Now in its third year, the FIA Innovation Challenge has seen member clubs throughout Region III continue to demonstrate leadership and innovation in delivering safer, more sustainable and more affordable mobility solutions. 

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, is picking up speed, with strong exhibitor demand and continued growth across key categories, especially in tires, wheels and related service technologies. For professionals focused on this critical segment of the automotive aftermarket, this year's Show offers an expansive look at the latest innovations shaping performance, styling and shop operations.

The SEMA Show's dedicated Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections, located in South Hall Lower of the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a central hub for retailers, installers, distributors, and builders. Attendees will have access to a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the needs of today's evolving vehicles and consumers.

The strength of the category is reflected in findings from the annual "SEMA Market Report," which shows that the United States wheels and tires aftermarket is a $6.8 billion market. The report also found that the broader wheels, tires, and suspension category totals $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

From high-performance tires and off-road applications to custom wheels, tire service equipment, balancing systems, alignment technologies, and shop management solutions, the Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections will highlight innovations driving advancements across both product performance and operational efficiency. As vehicle platforms diversify and consumer expectations rise, the tire and wheel category continues to see rapid innovation. 

The "SEMA Market Report" also underscores the importance of professional installers within the category. While consumers continue to personalize their vehicles, professional installation remains critical, particularly for off-road tires and wheels, where fitment, vehicle setup and performance requirements often require specialized expertise.

The Global Tires Expo and Wheels and Accessories sections are anchored by brands that have helped define the market and have been exhibiting at the SEMA Show for many years. This includes tire manufacturers such as Atturo, Kenda and Maxxis; iconic wheel brands like Cragar, Konig, MV Forged, Raceline, RTX Wheels and Vision Wheel; and key tire industry technology providers including Autel, Coats, Corghi USA and Hunter Engineering. Their continued presence reinforces the Show's role as a long-standing gathering place for both heritage brands and emerging innovators. 

"Tires and wheels are foundational to vehicle performance, safety, and customization, and they continue to evolve at a rapid pace," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "From advanced tire compounds and all-terrain designs to cutting-edge wheel styling and shop technologies, the tires and wheels sections showcase the full scope of innovation. The combination of legacy brands and forward-looking companies highlights the strength and future of this segment."

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have already surpassed 1 million net sq. ft., with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience November 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the United States, reflecting strong growth and investment across the automotive aftermarket. 

The 2026 SEMA Show will also feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, tools and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket opportunity.  

Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders and FutureTech Studio, offering insight into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of automotive performance and design. 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com. 

By Ashley Reyes

Women working in any area of the automotive industry have limited time left to secure their spot for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Virtual General Membership Meeting, taking place Wednesday, September 16, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT.

This free, interactive session is a great chance to connect with other women in the industry and gain insight into the programs, tools and community designed for career advancement.

During the meeting, SBN select committee leaders will share updates on:

• Networking opportunities available throughout the year
• Volunteer and leadership pathways within SBN
• Professional development resources, including webinars and recognition programs
• SBN events planned for the 2026 SEMA Show and PRI Show

Open to current SBN members and those interested in getting involved, this meeting will highlight how SBN supports professional growth and helps women build meaningful connections across the industry.

SBN membership is free and open to all women employed by a SEMA member company. If this sounds like you, don't miss your chance to attend the meeting to connect with a powerful, supportive community.

Save your spot here or click below.

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Insta_photos

By Ashley Reyes

Each year, the MPMC Media Trade Conference brings together the people who build leading motorsports brands with the media professionals who tell their stories.

Hosted by the Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC), the event will celebrate its 30th anniversary February 2-4, 2027, at the Embassy Suites in Orlando, Florida, while once again delivering unmatched value to manufacturers by giving them something they rarely receive at traditional trade shows: undivided attention from the media.

By registering now, manufacturers can secure up to 42 half-hour, face-to-face meetings with journalists, editors, photographers, videographers, podcasters and digital creators to discuss future coverage opportunities, including product features, technical content, podcast interviews and long-term editorial relationships.   

Already-registered brands include Auto Meter Products, Inc., QA1 Brands, Edelbrock Group and many more, each of whom will receive a curated meeting schedule in advance of the event.

"We've been going to MPMC for a lot of years; it's my favorite show of the year because you get to talk to so many people," said Tom Longo of Spal Automotive. "The SEMA Show and PRI Show are great, but they are busy and chaotic. When you get a 30-minute meeting with a particular media outlet and that's all you can focus on, you learn something. For us, we've always really enjoyed that relationship side of the event."  

No Costly Booth Setup, Just Focused Connections

Participating manufacturers receive a hotel suite that serves as their exhibit space throughout the conference. Media attendees rotate from room to room for each scheduled meeting, creating an efficient environment for manufacturers to discuss their products and initiatives while learning more about each media outlet's audience and editorial focus.

Manufacturer registration for the Media Trade Conference is open to SEMA MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members. Media registration will open in October. 

To learn more and to register, visit www.mediatradeconference.com. 

For a recap of last year's event, click here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Councils and Networks, in partnership with Blueprint Engines, is bringing business education, technical insights and networking to the Midwest with the pilot "Fuel Your Future" Regional Series. Built for custom car builders, restoration and hot-rod professionals and shop employees, the event will take place at the BluePrint Engines headquarters in Kearney, Nebraska, Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26. 

The "Fuel Your Future" Regional Series event is designed as an affordable, casual event where local classic-car industry professionals can sharpen their skills, network with other professionals and learn strategies to strengthen their businesses close to home. Day one will feature a tour of the BluePrint Engines warehouse and an evening networking event, while day two will feature a full day of educational seminars covering modern powertrain integration, advanced manufacturing, workforce development and what's changing in the industry. Between education sessions, attendees can explore vendor displays from local companies serving the aftermarket industry.

If you live or work in the area, bring your team for two days of practical education and strengthening relationships within the regional automotive aftermarket community.    

Guest Registration: $50 per person

Sign up as a Guest.

Vendor Registration: $500 (Includes an 8-foot table)

Sign up as a Vendor.

By SEMA News Editors

Cosmo Tires Expands With Kinney's Automotive Destination Store

Cosmo Tires has expanded its presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, market through a branding partnership with Kinney’s Automotive that transforms the Hurst, Texas, location into a 20,000-sq.-ft. Cosmo Tires destination store.

The newly branded facility features updated merchandising and retail elements designed to create a distinct Cosmo Tires experience, the company said. The partnership is part of the company’s Retail Partnership Program, which currently includes more than 20 locations across the United States as well as select international locations.

The companies marked the transformation with a Cosmo Tires Ambush Nites event featuring show cars, music, live graffiti painting, promotions, giveaways and product displays. Cosmo Tires and Kinney’s Automotive plan to host additional Ambush events at the Hurst location, which will also become the site of an annual Cosmo Tires Kool Kat Ambush event. The property’s outdoor space can accommodate more than 500 show cars along with live entertainment, food, vendors and product displays.

"Kinney's Automotive represents exactly the kind of dealer partner we want to grow with," said Mark Lindsey, chief strategy officer of Cosmo Tires. "This isn't simply about putting our name on a building. Together, we're creating a destination where we can sell tires, build the Cosmo Tires brand, engage consumers and bring the automotive community together. Ambush Nites was the first of many collaborations planned, bringing the community together with strong support from local business owners. These partnerships help us elevate the experience we provide and deepen our connection to the community."

For more information, visit cosmotires.com.

Dunlop Tires Appoints Matt Futrelle as Associate VP, TBR

Dunlop Tires North America (DTNA) has appointed Matt Futrelle as associate vice president, TBR.

In this role, Futrelle will be responsible for leading the TBR business, overseeing strategic initiatives, driving business growth and supporting DTNA's commitment to delivering products and service to customers across North America.

Matt brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry, with a proven track record of leadership, operational excellence and business development, the company said. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to build high-performing teams, strengthen customer relationships and execute strategies that deliver sustainable results.

"Matt's leadership experience, industry expertise, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team," said Darren Thomas, CEO-President, DTNA. "We are confident that his vision and customer-focused approach will help accelerate our growth in the TBR business and strengthen our position in the marketplace."

"I couldn't be more excited to join the Dunlop Tires North America team. We see significant opportunities to increase our participation in the North American Commercial Truck Tire market, bringing even more value to our commercial tire dealer and fleet partners," stated Futrelle. "I am also happy to be a part of expanding the iconic Dunlop brand across North America. The brand holds a special place for me because I have such great memories growing up racing on Dunlop motocross tires."

For more information, visit dunloptires.com.