SEMA News—October 2012

BUSINESS
By Kristin DeBates

Rev Up Your Online Customer Experience With Logistics

How to Deliver the Goods to Online Shoppers

	A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process.

The online retail market for automotive parts and accessories continues to emerge as a tremendous growth opportunity for the aftermarket parts industry. While appraisals of sales volumes within the online auto parts industry vary, estimates range from $1.8 billion to $4 billion annually.

The recent 2012 SEMA Annual Market Report found that consumers (46.2%) cited chain auto parts stores and specialty parts stores as their primary outlets for purchasing automotive parts and accessories; however, online retail was the next highest outlet, with 24.5% of respondents reporting that they primarily purchased automotive parts from online retailers. The online retailers ranged from online auction sites and chain auto parts online stores to online-only retailers.

It is clear that the popularity and potential for online retailing of automotive parts serves as a growth opportunity for the industry. Taking advantage of this opportunity will require automotive suppliers and retailers to look at the customer experience in a new way—from the perspective of an online shopper.

A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process. Ultimately, the survey found that the ability to control deliveries and having increased visibility were the most important factors driving today’s online shoppers. Following are highlights of top study findings and advice for automotive parts suppliers on strategies to address online customer expectations.

Options, Options and More Options

One of the keys to success with online shoppers is to provide them with a variety of delivery options to meet their needs. The comScore Online Customer Experience study found that while 67% of shoppers preferred the most economical delivery option, the majority of respondents also desired the option to speed up shipments in urgent scenarios, such as the need for a crucial part. Long delivery lead times also can be a major deterrent for online shoppers. The study found that 80% of online shoppers reported recently abandoning their online shopping carts, and 78% of those respondents cited the specified delivery time or a delivery time of more than five days as their reason for cart abandonment.

In order to address online customers’ preferences for delivery date options, look for shipping partners that offer a number of flexible shipping options, ranging from premium express delivery to more economical options, such as ground delivery. The more shipping options made available to online customers, the more likely they are to follow through with their online purchases.

Communication Is Key

Similar to providing online shoppers with multiple delivery options, retailers should be aware that shoppers want to know the details regarding their delivery date prior to making an online purchase. Providing online customers with an accurate delivery date from the beginning can further ensure that customer expectations are being met. Additionally, 46% of survey respondents said that receiving a product when expected led them to recommend an online retailer.

Online shoppers not only want to know when they will receive a package, but also want to use technology to stay on top of their delivery. Of the online shoppers surveyed, 39% said that receiving an e-mail or text delivery alert was the most convenient form of notification.

There are a number of tools available to assist online retailers with these customer preferences for increased communication and visibility. These tools range from enabling retailers to place package tracking capabilities directly on their websites to solutions that help retailers proactively alert customers of their delivery via e-mail or text.

Read this story in its entirety in the October 2012 issue of SEMA News. 

SEMA News—October 2012

BUSINESS
By Kristin DeBates

Rev Up Your Online Customer Experience With Logistics

How to Deliver the Goods to Online Shoppers

	A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process.

The online retail market for automotive parts and accessories continues to emerge as a tremendous growth opportunity for the aftermarket parts industry. While appraisals of sales volumes within the online auto parts industry vary, estimates range from $1.8 billion to $4 billion annually.

The recent 2012 SEMA Annual Market Report found that consumers (46.2%) cited chain auto parts stores and specialty parts stores as their primary outlets for purchasing automotive parts and accessories; however, online retail was the next highest outlet, with 24.5% of respondents reporting that they primarily purchased automotive parts from online retailers. The online retailers ranged from online auction sites and chain auto parts online stores to online-only retailers.

It is clear that the popularity and potential for online retailing of automotive parts serves as a growth opportunity for the industry. Taking advantage of this opportunity will require automotive suppliers and retailers to look at the customer experience in a new way—from the perspective of an online shopper.

A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process. Ultimately, the survey found that the ability to control deliveries and having increased visibility were the most important factors driving today’s online shoppers. Following are highlights of top study findings and advice for automotive parts suppliers on strategies to address online customer expectations.

Options, Options and More Options

One of the keys to success with online shoppers is to provide them with a variety of delivery options to meet their needs. The comScore Online Customer Experience study found that while 67% of shoppers preferred the most economical delivery option, the majority of respondents also desired the option to speed up shipments in urgent scenarios, such as the need for a crucial part. Long delivery lead times also can be a major deterrent for online shoppers. The study found that 80% of online shoppers reported recently abandoning their online shopping carts, and 78% of those respondents cited the specified delivery time or a delivery time of more than five days as their reason for cart abandonment.

In order to address online customers’ preferences for delivery date options, look for shipping partners that offer a number of flexible shipping options, ranging from premium express delivery to more economical options, such as ground delivery. The more shipping options made available to online customers, the more likely they are to follow through with their online purchases.

Communication Is Key

Similar to providing online shoppers with multiple delivery options, retailers should be aware that shoppers want to know the details regarding their delivery date prior to making an online purchase. Providing online customers with an accurate delivery date from the beginning can further ensure that customer expectations are being met. Additionally, 46% of survey respondents said that receiving a product when expected led them to recommend an online retailer.

Online shoppers not only want to know when they will receive a package, but also want to use technology to stay on top of their delivery. Of the online shoppers surveyed, 39% said that receiving an e-mail or text delivery alert was the most convenient form of notification.

There are a number of tools available to assist online retailers with these customer preferences for increased communication and visibility. These tools range from enabling retailers to place package tracking capabilities directly on their websites to solutions that help retailers proactively alert customers of their delivery via e-mail or text.

Read this story in its entirety in the October 2012 issue of SEMA News. 

SEMA News—October 2012

BUSINESS
By Kristin DeBates

Rev Up Your Online Customer Experience With Logistics

How to Deliver the Goods to Online Shoppers

	A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process.

The online retail market for automotive parts and accessories continues to emerge as a tremendous growth opportunity for the aftermarket parts industry. While appraisals of sales volumes within the online auto parts industry vary, estimates range from $1.8 billion to $4 billion annually.

The recent 2012 SEMA Annual Market Report found that consumers (46.2%) cited chain auto parts stores and specialty parts stores as their primary outlets for purchasing automotive parts and accessories; however, online retail was the next highest outlet, with 24.5% of respondents reporting that they primarily purchased automotive parts from online retailers. The online retailers ranged from online auction sites and chain auto parts online stores to online-only retailers.

It is clear that the popularity and potential for online retailing of automotive parts serves as a growth opportunity for the industry. Taking advantage of this opportunity will require automotive suppliers and retailers to look at the customer experience in a new way—from the perspective of an online shopper.

A recent study by comScore revealed new insights into the consumer online shopping experience. Commissioned by UPS, the comScore study polled more than 3,100 online shoppers and evaluated consumer perceptions and shopping habits ranging from pre-purchase to delivery and even the returns process. Ultimately, the survey found that the ability to control deliveries and having increased visibility were the most important factors driving today’s online shoppers. Following are highlights of top study findings and advice for automotive parts suppliers on strategies to address online customer expectations.

Options, Options and More Options

One of the keys to success with online shoppers is to provide them with a variety of delivery options to meet their needs. The comScore Online Customer Experience study found that while 67% of shoppers preferred the most economical delivery option, the majority of respondents also desired the option to speed up shipments in urgent scenarios, such as the need for a crucial part. Long delivery lead times also can be a major deterrent for online shoppers. The study found that 80% of online shoppers reported recently abandoning their online shopping carts, and 78% of those respondents cited the specified delivery time or a delivery time of more than five days as their reason for cart abandonment.

In order to address online customers’ preferences for delivery date options, look for shipping partners that offer a number of flexible shipping options, ranging from premium express delivery to more economical options, such as ground delivery. The more shipping options made available to online customers, the more likely they are to follow through with their online purchases.

Communication Is Key

Similar to providing online shoppers with multiple delivery options, retailers should be aware that shoppers want to know the details regarding their delivery date prior to making an online purchase. Providing online customers with an accurate delivery date from the beginning can further ensure that customer expectations are being met. Additionally, 46% of survey respondents said that receiving a product when expected led them to recommend an online retailer.

Online shoppers not only want to know when they will receive a package, but also want to use technology to stay on top of their delivery. Of the online shoppers surveyed, 39% said that receiving an e-mail or text delivery alert was the most convenient form of notification.

There are a number of tools available to assist online retailers with these customer preferences for increased communication and visibility. These tools range from enabling retailers to place package tracking capabilities directly on their websites to solutions that help retailers proactively alert customers of their delivery via e-mail or text.

Read this story in its entirety in the October 2012 issue of SEMA News. 

By John Stewart

Auto writers get their hands on a MOPAR-enhanced Dodge Viper a week after it appeared at the 2012 SEMA Show.

The Jeep “Sand Trooper” had some parts, such as a MOPAR 5.7L crate engine, which enthusiasts can order, and some that were strictly prototypes, such as the beadlock wheels.

The Dart “Slingshot” has internal roll cage and other upgrades that make it suitable for autocross use.

The assembled press also had a chance to drive two Fiat 500 cars that had been extensively restyled.

Pietro Gorlier, president and chief executive officer – Mopar brand service, parts and customer care, Chrysler Group LLC, last week invited a group of car writers to experience some of the concept cars that had been on display at the 2012 SEMA Show. The cars spanned a wide range of tastes and visions, but many sported parts that could be soon ordered through Mopar dealers, or even ordered now.

“We’re here today because we want to extend the SEMA season,” says  Gorlier. “Every year, we put these dream vehicles on the SEMA Show floor for a full week, and then pack up our toys and take them home. This year we weren’t ready for the fun to stop.”

Lead designers and engineers were also in attendance to discuss the basis of each concept and hint at which parts were likely to become available as Mopar offerings. A number of attending journalists took advantage of the rare opportunity to get behind the wheel and actually drive the SEMA display concept vehicles. One of the most compelling was the SRT Viper, which had been further enhanced for track use. The prototype vehicle built for the SEMA Show appears far more sophisticated than the original performance car, which has been described as “raw and unforgiving.” A carbon-fiber ground effects package, including chin spoiler, were said to be functional prototypes that could create up to 500 lbs. of downforce at top speed, which for a Viper, is something close to 200 mph. Also conspicuous was a GoPro camera mounted behind the seats. Dodge recently reported that after three years, the Viper supercar is again available at dealers, and ’13 SRT Viper packages can now be ordered.

Other SEMA concept vehicles on hand that day included the Dart “Slingshot” (an autocross setup), a luxury Chrysler 300 with 20-in. wheels and Katzkin seats, and the Wrangler “Sand Trooper,” a ’12 JK with 5.7L Mopar crate engine, portal axles, prototype beadlock wheels and a matte tan finish. Like the other vehicles, the Wrangler’s equipment included some production parts that can be ordered through Mopar and some prototypes that may or may not make it into production.

“SEMA provided a great opportunity for us to experiment with these vehicles,” Gorlier noted. He reaffirmed Mopar’s commitment to making performance parts for enthusiasts as a primary mission, adding, “When we’re designing the car, we’re working on performance parts at the same time as well.”

By John Stewart

Auto writers get their hands on a MOPAR-enhanced Dodge Viper a week after it appeared at the 2012 SEMA Show.

The Jeep “Sand Trooper” had some parts, such as a MOPAR 5.7L crate engine, which enthusiasts can order, and some that were strictly prototypes, such as the beadlock wheels.

The Dart “Slingshot” has internal roll cage and other upgrades that make it suitable for autocross use.

The assembled press also had a chance to drive two Fiat 500 cars that had been extensively restyled.

Pietro Gorlier, president and chief executive officer – Mopar brand service, parts and customer care, Chrysler Group LLC, last week invited a group of car writers to experience some of the concept cars that had been on display at the 2012 SEMA Show. The cars spanned a wide range of tastes and visions, but many sported parts that could be soon ordered through Mopar dealers, or even ordered now.

“We’re here today because we want to extend the SEMA season,” says  Gorlier. “Every year, we put these dream vehicles on the SEMA Show floor for a full week, and then pack up our toys and take them home. This year we weren’t ready for the fun to stop.”

Lead designers and engineers were also in attendance to discuss the basis of each concept and hint at which parts were likely to become available as Mopar offerings. A number of attending journalists took advantage of the rare opportunity to get behind the wheel and actually drive the SEMA display concept vehicles. One of the most compelling was the SRT Viper, which had been further enhanced for track use. The prototype vehicle built for the SEMA Show appears far more sophisticated than the original performance car, which has been described as “raw and unforgiving.” A carbon-fiber ground effects package, including chin spoiler, were said to be functional prototypes that could create up to 500 lbs. of downforce at top speed, which for a Viper, is something close to 200 mph. Also conspicuous was a GoPro camera mounted behind the seats. Dodge recently reported that after three years, the Viper supercar is again available at dealers, and ’13 SRT Viper packages can now be ordered.

Other SEMA concept vehicles on hand that day included the Dart “Slingshot” (an autocross setup), a luxury Chrysler 300 with 20-in. wheels and Katzkin seats, and the Wrangler “Sand Trooper,” a ’12 JK with 5.7L Mopar crate engine, portal axles, prototype beadlock wheels and a matte tan finish. Like the other vehicles, the Wrangler’s equipment included some production parts that can be ordered through Mopar and some prototypes that may or may not make it into production.

“SEMA provided a great opportunity for us to experiment with these vehicles,” Gorlier noted. He reaffirmed Mopar’s commitment to making performance parts for enthusiasts as a primary mission, adding, “When we’re designing the car, we’re working on performance parts at the same time as well.”

	Prestolite Performance launched “The Search for Mr. Gasket” contest, where one fan will receive a one-year contract to become Mr. Gasket's official spokesperson.

Prestolite Announces “The Search for Mr. Gasket Contest”
Prestolite Performance announced the company's first-ever “The Search for Mr. Gasket” contest, where one lucky fan will receive a one-year contract to become Mr. Gasket's official spokesperson.

“If you spend your weekends working under the hood, we’re looking for you,” said Rob Koller, brand manager for Mr. Gasket. “We’ve found that great ideas often come from weekend racers and everyday performance enthusiasts. We’re looking for that kind of person to become the face of the Mr. Gasket brand. For us, the glitz of Hollywood is no match for the grit that comes from working on an engine.”

Beyond a ceremonial title, the new Mr. Gasket will receive a one-year contract to appear in television and print ads, appear at select Prestolite Performance promotional visits, and $2,500. Participants can enter the contest through December 31 by going to www.TheSearchforMrGasket.com, uploading a photo that shows their obsession with performance cars and explaining why they should be chosen as Mr. Gasket. Prestolite Performance will select 10 finalists, and the public will be able to vote on a winner from January 1–31, 2013, either on www.TheSearchforMrGasket.com or The Search for Mr. Gasket Facebook tab. Prestolite Performance will declare a winner on January 31, with the new Mr. Gasket announced publicly on or around February 6. Contact Tom Valentino at tom.valentino@thundertech.com or 888-321-8422 for additional information.

Automotive Lift Institute Chooses Simpson Communications for PR
The trade association Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) has named Simpson Communications LLC as its public relations agency of record. Simpson Communications will promote the organization’s lift certification and safety messages to the vehicle service industry. “With the recent introduction of our Lift Inspector Certification Program, we’ve expanded our mission to include vehicle lift inspection in addition to our traditional activities designed to help promote a stronger automotive lift safety environment,” said ALI President R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman. The Lift Inspector Certification Program was created to provide third-party qualification of vehicle-lift inspectors and to certify those who pass tests and practical-experience requirements demonstrating that they are qualified to properly inspect vehicle lifts in accordance with ANSI standards and in support of OSHA’s General Duty Clause and provincial requirements in Canada. Inspection companies with candidate inspectors that achieve certification by ALI are also eligible to represent a newly formed associate membership group within ALI, allowing the organization to grow in new directions to further support the industry.

Advanced Vehicle Dynamics Seminar Returns to Race Industry Week
Long-time race engineer Claude Rouelle will return to Orlando, Florida, with his “Advanced Vehicle Dynamics & Data Acquisition” seminar, November 26–28, as part of Race Industry Week in conjunction with the 25th annual PRI Trade Show. The Advanced Vehicle Dynamics seminar joins the AETC as one of two kick-off events to Race Industry Week—the week-long racing business extravaganza leading into this year's PRI Trade Show. The seminar is designed to help teams and designers not only learn about finding the correct setup, but also about understanding why a setup change is working or not working, and knowing how to quantify this advantage. It will aide in understanding how, why and how much certain factors affect vehicle behavior, rather than relying on experience and intuition. Topics scheduled to be addressed in the three-day seminar include: tires, aerodynamics, kinematics, steady state weight transfer, shocks, ride and transient weight transfers, data acquisition, car design, tuning modification and chassis setup. There is a fee to attend. The OptimumG seminar is one of eight major events that will take place in conjunction with this year's PRI Trade Show, November 29–December 1, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Overall, Race Industry Week is scheduled to include more than 35 special events. More information is available at www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow.

Motor Trend Names Tesla Model S 2013 Car of the Year
Source Interlink Media recently announced that Motor Trend has selected the 2013 Tesla Model S as its 2013 Car of the Year, marking the first time that a vehicle not powered by an internal combustion engine has been selected during the award's 64-year history. The announcement was made after a diverse group of 25 contenders were put through a series of tests by Motor Trend to examine nearly every aspect of each vehicle. When it was all over, the panel of 11 judges voted unanimously for the Tesla Model S. 

	Stephen Seipel became the owner of this custom-designed 2013 Dodge Dart Limited by winning “Fight for Your Dart” contest, conducted through a partnership between Dodge and the UFC.

Stephen Seipel Wins the “Fight for Your Dart” Contest
Working together, Dodge and the UFC launched the “Fight for Your Dart” contest—hosted on the Dodge Facebook page—beginning July 20 and concluding July 24. The “Fight for Your Dart” contest pitted two would-be winners to pick one of two UFC fighters—either Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson or Joseph Benavidez—and whichever fighter won, so did their Facebook fan. Partnered with Johnson, Stephen Seipel became the owner of the custom-designed ’13 Dodge Dart Limited. Customized by Kelderman Air Suspension Systems, Seipel's ’13 Dodge Dart Limited was designed by Johnson and then tricked-out in Matte Gecko Green paint and custom vinyl graphics, accessorized with Katzkin Leather seats, JL Audio speakers, amplifier and subwoofer, Magnaflow exhaust, American Racing wheels and Toyo Tires. Before Seipel could take possession of the grand-prize Dart, he was flown to Las Vegas and invited to attend the 2012 SEMA Show as Dodge's special guest where he would be officially presented the keys to the ’13 Dart from Kelderman Vice President Jeff Kelderman and Demetrious Johnson.

Ingersoll Rand Names Winners of the Extreme Toolbox Overhaul Contest
Ingersoll Rand announced the winners of the Extreme Toolbox Overhaul Contest held at the 2012 SEMA Show. The Grand Prize winner was Conner Jex from Spanish Fork, Utah. Jex was randomly drawn to win a custom-designed tool box, the complete line of IQ(V20) Series cordless tools and select pneumatic MAX series tools from Ingersoll Rand. Alan Buebar, the runner-up from Dalhart, Texas, will receive the newest addition to the IQ(V20) Series cordless tool line—the W5130 3/8-in. Mid-Torque Cordless Impactool. In addition to the cordless line, Jex received select MAX Series tools, including the 122MAXK Air Hammer Kit, 2015MAX 3/8-in. Hammerhead Low Profile Impactool, 2135iMAX 1/2-in. Impact Wrench, 1105MAX-D2 1/4-in. Ratchet, 1207MAX-D33/8-in. Ratchet, 3445MAX Air Angle Grinder and the recently introduced 5102MAX and 5108MAX Air Die Grinders.

Half a decade ago the SEMA Show was less than a blip on the collision repair industry's radar. Those days are long gone as the Show continues to solidify its standing as the premier event for the industry, with filled aisles, packed booths, a burgeoning number of collision-repair-related industries on the Show floor, and an infectious energy that collision repairers just can't seem to resist.

"From our vantage point in the booth, you can't help but notice the enthusiasm of the collision repair customers walking the aisles," said Brian Shenk, director of marketing services for Sherman-Williams Automotive Finishes. "I thinks it's because the Show is infused with the colorful, cool fun of the custom car segment, which carries over to collision repair participants. Two years ago we moved our booth to the North Hall, home to the collision repair section, and we haven't looked back since. Having a presence here has really paid off, and our custom paint group is totally on board, as well."

The SEMA Show is attracting increasing numbers of collision repairers and exhibitors for a variety of practical reasons, too. At the top of the list is the search for alternative revenue streams, as more and more collision repairers understand the need to think out of the box when considering products and services that can increase their bottom line. At the Show, they get exposure to these kinds of options, like customization and specialty paint work that often can be accomplished with a collision repairer's existing tools. Vendors of products and services that align with a repairer's core work, such as those related to mechanical repair, are also well represented at the SEMA Show.

"Repairers that keep their eyes open to opportunity can walk the aisles of the Show and get any number of ideas to diversify their businesses," said Frank Terlep, owner of Summit Software Solutions Inc. "Reduced claims and increased consolidation are dictating that repairers refine their business model; this is the place to get inspired to do it. Just this afternoon I saw a vendor selling aftermarket collision avoidance systems, and another selling backup cameras. These products are ideal complements to the services repairers already provide."

Jonathan Barrick, marketing manager for Global Finishing Solutions, has similar feelings. "Basically collision repair owners and managers can come to this Show and find everything they need to improve their business," he stated. "This includes the quality educational material that SCRS provides and promotes through Repairer Driven Education (RDE). Our company likes being here because the attendees seem so open to learning about new products. That makes the SEMA Show the perfect place to illustrate what our company is all about. It's a venue that allows us to show our personality and make a good brand impression. We've increased our booth space every year."

The benefits of expanded markets resonate throughout the exhibitor side, as well. "Our company has been coming to this Show for many years," noted PPG Senior Manager Business Solutions/Industry Relations Domenic Brusco, "primarily as a well-received provider of custom finishes for hot rods, motorcycles and other specialty vehicles. The traction that is growing in the collision repair section—which I think can be attributed in part to the work SCRS has done to build the industry's identity at the Show—is great for us because it also gives us the opportunity to connect with our collision refinish business customers. It's a nice synergy."

SEMA also exhibits a set of intangibles that adds to its allure. "The Show brings together everyone that is an auto enthusiast, which makes it unique," said Jeff Kern, president of Car-O-Liner, another company that has increased its booth size every year and was one of the first collision repair vendors to host a booth on the SEMA Show floor. "Attendees get a sense of 'we are all in this together' and feel a part of a greater automotive-related whole, perhaps, they never would have gotten to experience otherwise."

SCRS Board Member Kye Yeung likewise sees benefit in the distinctive nature of the Show. "Because the SEMA Show includes all auto-related businesses, it provides a kind of neutral background which, for some reason, seems to encourage networking between shop owners," he said. "I guess you could say it takes us out of the day-to-day mindset we fall into as we are grinding away in the trenches, so we can look at our competitors more objectively and appreciate what they have to offer."

Top-notch education of the type SCRS provides through RDE is yet another reason repairers find the Show compelling—explaining why so many collision repair vendors have stepped up to support the program. Simply put, RDE attracts collision repair professionals to the North Hall, placing exhibitors in close proximity to the prospects that can best benefit from what they have to offer.

Conversely, the SEMA Show has proven to be the perfect venue for education of RDE's ambitious scope. "It works both ways," explained SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. "The energy this Show generates carries over to how people perceive our curriculum, to which or healthy enrollment numbers will attest. And it's satisfying—and frankly humbling—to hear the success of RDE translates into success for collision repair exhibitors, including RDE's sponsors that provided significant financial support for the program. We extend our deepest thanks to the sponsoring companies, who by their actions demonstrate their understanding of the need for quality education. The SEMA Show is on the rise, no question."

Half a decade ago the SEMA Show was less than a blip on the collision repair industry's radar. Those days are long gone as the Show continues to solidify its standing as the premier event for the industry, with filled aisles, packed booths, a burgeoning number of collision-repair-related industries on the Show floor, and an infectious energy that collision repairers just can't seem to resist.

"From our vantage point in the booth, you can't help but notice the enthusiasm of the collision repair customers walking the aisles," said Brian Shenk, director of marketing services for Sherman-Williams Automotive Finishes. "I thinks it's because the Show is infused with the colorful, cool fun of the custom car segment, which carries over to collision repair participants. Two years ago we moved our booth to the North Hall, home to the collision repair section, and we haven't looked back since. Having a presence here has really paid off, and our custom paint group is totally on board, as well."

The SEMA Show is attracting increasing numbers of collision repairers and exhibitors for a variety of practical reasons, too. At the top of the list is the search for alternative revenue streams, as more and more collision repairers understand the need to think out of the box when considering products and services that can increase their bottom line. At the Show, they get exposure to these kinds of options, like customization and specialty paint work that often can be accomplished with a collision repairer's existing tools. Vendors of products and services that align with a repairer's core work, such as those related to mechanical repair, are also well represented at the SEMA Show.

"Repairers that keep their eyes open to opportunity can walk the aisles of the Show and get any number of ideas to diversify their businesses," said Frank Terlep, owner of Summit Software Solutions Inc. "Reduced claims and increased consolidation are dictating that repairers refine their business model; this is the place to get inspired to do it. Just this afternoon I saw a vendor selling aftermarket collision avoidance systems, and another selling backup cameras. These products are ideal complements to the services repairers already provide."

Jonathan Barrick, marketing manager for Global Finishing Solutions, has similar feelings. "Basically collision repair owners and managers can come to this Show and find everything they need to improve their business," he stated. "This includes the quality educational material that SCRS provides and promotes through Repairer Driven Education (RDE). Our company likes being here because the attendees seem so open to learning about new products. That makes the SEMA Show the perfect place to illustrate what our company is all about. It's a venue that allows us to show our personality and make a good brand impression. We've increased our booth space every year."

The benefits of expanded markets resonate throughout the exhibitor side, as well. "Our company has been coming to this Show for many years," noted PPG Senior Manager Business Solutions/Industry Relations Domenic Brusco, "primarily as a well-received provider of custom finishes for hot rods, motorcycles and other specialty vehicles. The traction that is growing in the collision repair section—which I think can be attributed in part to the work SCRS has done to build the industry's identity at the Show—is great for us because it also gives us the opportunity to connect with our collision refinish business customers. It's a nice synergy."

SEMA also exhibits a set of intangibles that adds to its allure. "The Show brings together everyone that is an auto enthusiast, which makes it unique," said Jeff Kern, president of Car-O-Liner, another company that has increased its booth size every year and was one of the first collision repair vendors to host a booth on the SEMA Show floor. "Attendees get a sense of 'we are all in this together' and feel a part of a greater automotive-related whole, perhaps, they never would have gotten to experience otherwise."

SCRS Board Member Kye Yeung likewise sees benefit in the distinctive nature of the Show. "Because the SEMA Show includes all auto-related businesses, it provides a kind of neutral background which, for some reason, seems to encourage networking between shop owners," he said. "I guess you could say it takes us out of the day-to-day mindset we fall into as we are grinding away in the trenches, so we can look at our competitors more objectively and appreciate what they have to offer."

Top-notch education of the type SCRS provides through RDE is yet another reason repairers find the Show compelling—explaining why so many collision repair vendors have stepped up to support the program. Simply put, RDE attracts collision repair professionals to the North Hall, placing exhibitors in close proximity to the prospects that can best benefit from what they have to offer.

Conversely, the SEMA Show has proven to be the perfect venue for education of RDE's ambitious scope. "It works both ways," explained SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. "The energy this Show generates carries over to how people perceive our curriculum, to which or healthy enrollment numbers will attest. And it's satisfying—and frankly humbling—to hear the success of RDE translates into success for collision repair exhibitors, including RDE's sponsors that provided significant financial support for the program. We extend our deepest thanks to the sponsoring companies, who by their actions demonstrate their understanding of the need for quality education. The SEMA Show is on the rise, no question."

Half a decade ago the SEMA Show was less than a blip on the collision repair industry's radar. Those days are long gone as the Show continues to solidify its standing as the premier event for the industry, with filled aisles, packed booths, a burgeoning number of collision-repair-related industries on the Show floor, and an infectious energy that collision repairers just can't seem to resist.

"From our vantage point in the booth, you can't help but notice the enthusiasm of the collision repair customers walking the aisles," said Brian Shenk, director of marketing services for Sherman-Williams Automotive Finishes. "I thinks it's because the Show is infused with the colorful, cool fun of the custom car segment, which carries over to collision repair participants. Two years ago we moved our booth to the North Hall, home to the collision repair section, and we haven't looked back since. Having a presence here has really paid off, and our custom paint group is totally on board, as well."

The SEMA Show is attracting increasing numbers of collision repairers and exhibitors for a variety of practical reasons, too. At the top of the list is the search for alternative revenue streams, as more and more collision repairers understand the need to think out of the box when considering products and services that can increase their bottom line. At the Show, they get exposure to these kinds of options, like customization and specialty paint work that often can be accomplished with a collision repairer's existing tools. Vendors of products and services that align with a repairer's core work, such as those related to mechanical repair, are also well represented at the SEMA Show.

"Repairers that keep their eyes open to opportunity can walk the aisles of the Show and get any number of ideas to diversify their businesses," said Frank Terlep, owner of Summit Software Solutions Inc. "Reduced claims and increased consolidation are dictating that repairers refine their business model; this is the place to get inspired to do it. Just this afternoon I saw a vendor selling aftermarket collision avoidance systems, and another selling backup cameras. These products are ideal complements to the services repairers already provide."

Jonathan Barrick, marketing manager for Global Finishing Solutions, has similar feelings. "Basically collision repair owners and managers can come to this Show and find everything they need to improve their business," he stated. "This includes the quality educational material that SCRS provides and promotes through Repairer Driven Education (RDE). Our company likes being here because the attendees seem so open to learning about new products. That makes the SEMA Show the perfect place to illustrate what our company is all about. It's a venue that allows us to show our personality and make a good brand impression. We've increased our booth space every year."

The benefits of expanded markets resonate throughout the exhibitor side, as well. "Our company has been coming to this Show for many years," noted PPG Senior Manager Business Solutions/Industry Relations Domenic Brusco, "primarily as a well-received provider of custom finishes for hot rods, motorcycles and other specialty vehicles. The traction that is growing in the collision repair section—which I think can be attributed in part to the work SCRS has done to build the industry's identity at the Show—is great for us because it also gives us the opportunity to connect with our collision refinish business customers. It's a nice synergy."

SEMA also exhibits a set of intangibles that adds to its allure. "The Show brings together everyone that is an auto enthusiast, which makes it unique," said Jeff Kern, president of Car-O-Liner, another company that has increased its booth size every year and was one of the first collision repair vendors to host a booth on the SEMA Show floor. "Attendees get a sense of 'we are all in this together' and feel a part of a greater automotive-related whole, perhaps, they never would have gotten to experience otherwise."

SCRS Board Member Kye Yeung likewise sees benefit in the distinctive nature of the Show. "Because the SEMA Show includes all auto-related businesses, it provides a kind of neutral background which, for some reason, seems to encourage networking between shop owners," he said. "I guess you could say it takes us out of the day-to-day mindset we fall into as we are grinding away in the trenches, so we can look at our competitors more objectively and appreciate what they have to offer."

Top-notch education of the type SCRS provides through RDE is yet another reason repairers find the Show compelling—explaining why so many collision repair vendors have stepped up to support the program. Simply put, RDE attracts collision repair professionals to the North Hall, placing exhibitors in close proximity to the prospects that can best benefit from what they have to offer.

Conversely, the SEMA Show has proven to be the perfect venue for education of RDE's ambitious scope. "It works both ways," explained SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. "The energy this Show generates carries over to how people perceive our curriculum, to which or healthy enrollment numbers will attest. And it's satisfying—and frankly humbling—to hear the success of RDE translates into success for collision repair exhibitors, including RDE's sponsors that provided significant financial support for the program. We extend our deepest thanks to the sponsoring companies, who by their actions demonstrate their understanding of the need for quality education. The SEMA Show is on the rise, no question."

Half a decade ago the SEMA Show was less than a blip on the collision repair industry's radar. Those days are long gone as the Show continues to solidify its standing as the premier event for the industry, with filled aisles, packed booths, a burgeoning number of collision-repair-related industries on the Show floor, and an infectious energy that collision repairers just can't seem to resist.

"From our vantage point in the booth, you can't help but notice the enthusiasm of the collision repair customers walking the aisles," said Brian Shenk, director of marketing services for Sherman-Williams Automotive Finishes. "I thinks it's because the Show is infused with the colorful, cool fun of the custom car segment, which carries over to collision repair participants. Two years ago we moved our booth to the North Hall, home to the collision repair section, and we haven't looked back since. Having a presence here has really paid off, and our custom paint group is totally on board, as well."

The SEMA Show is attracting increasing numbers of collision repairers and exhibitors for a variety of practical reasons, too. At the top of the list is the search for alternative revenue streams, as more and more collision repairers understand the need to think out of the box when considering products and services that can increase their bottom line. At the Show, they get exposure to these kinds of options, like customization and specialty paint work that often can be accomplished with a collision repairer's existing tools. Vendors of products and services that align with a repairer's core work, such as those related to mechanical repair, are also well represented at the SEMA Show.

"Repairers that keep their eyes open to opportunity can walk the aisles of the Show and get any number of ideas to diversify their businesses," said Frank Terlep, owner of Summit Software Solutions Inc. "Reduced claims and increased consolidation are dictating that repairers refine their business model; this is the place to get inspired to do it. Just this afternoon I saw a vendor selling aftermarket collision avoidance systems, and another selling backup cameras. These products are ideal complements to the services repairers already provide."

Jonathan Barrick, marketing manager for Global Finishing Solutions, has similar feelings. "Basically collision repair owners and managers can come to this Show and find everything they need to improve their business," he stated. "This includes the quality educational material that SCRS provides and promotes through Repairer Driven Education (RDE). Our company likes being here because the attendees seem so open to learning about new products. That makes the SEMA Show the perfect place to illustrate what our company is all about. It's a venue that allows us to show our personality and make a good brand impression. We've increased our booth space every year."

The benefits of expanded markets resonate throughout the exhibitor side, as well. "Our company has been coming to this Show for many years," noted PPG Senior Manager Business Solutions/Industry Relations Domenic Brusco, "primarily as a well-received provider of custom finishes for hot rods, motorcycles and other specialty vehicles. The traction that is growing in the collision repair section—which I think can be attributed in part to the work SCRS has done to build the industry's identity at the Show—is great for us because it also gives us the opportunity to connect with our collision refinish business customers. It's a nice synergy."

SEMA also exhibits a set of intangibles that adds to its allure. "The Show brings together everyone that is an auto enthusiast, which makes it unique," said Jeff Kern, president of Car-O-Liner, another company that has increased its booth size every year and was one of the first collision repair vendors to host a booth on the SEMA Show floor. "Attendees get a sense of 'we are all in this together' and feel a part of a greater automotive-related whole, perhaps, they never would have gotten to experience otherwise."

SCRS Board Member Kye Yeung likewise sees benefit in the distinctive nature of the Show. "Because the SEMA Show includes all auto-related businesses, it provides a kind of neutral background which, for some reason, seems to encourage networking between shop owners," he said. "I guess you could say it takes us out of the day-to-day mindset we fall into as we are grinding away in the trenches, so we can look at our competitors more objectively and appreciate what they have to offer."

Top-notch education of the type SCRS provides through RDE is yet another reason repairers find the Show compelling—explaining why so many collision repair vendors have stepped up to support the program. Simply put, RDE attracts collision repair professionals to the North Hall, placing exhibitors in close proximity to the prospects that can best benefit from what they have to offer.

Conversely, the SEMA Show has proven to be the perfect venue for education of RDE's ambitious scope. "It works both ways," explained SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. "The energy this Show generates carries over to how people perceive our curriculum, to which or healthy enrollment numbers will attest. And it's satisfying—and frankly humbling—to hear the success of RDE translates into success for collision repair exhibitors, including RDE's sponsors that provided significant financial support for the program. We extend our deepest thanks to the sponsoring companies, who by their actions demonstrate their understanding of the need for quality education. The SEMA Show is on the rise, no question."