Do you know someone who is worthy of SEMA Hall of Fame enshrinement? This is your last chance to submit your nominations, which are due March 16, 2011. Created in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame is the most prestigious award presented to an individual by the association. It is designed to honor outstanding persons in the industry who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or association's growth. Nominations can be submitted online by following this link.

While most business people enjoy planning for success, preparing for disaster is equally crucial. Whether bracing to endure earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes or man-made events, such as terrorism or other crimes, including physical and cyber attacks, every company should take steps to survive, recover and resume operations in the event of catastrophe. Basic preventative measures apply to any type of disaster or business interruption, but specific measures tailored to geographic or regional conditions should also be considered.

A new study commissioned by SEMA indicates that aftermarket products influence about 1,180,000 new-vehicle sales each year. The automotive marketing research and consultancy firm AutoPacific collected and analyzed consumer data to quantify the effect that accessorization has on the sale of new vehicles. The resulting report, “Influence of Accessories on New-Vehicle Sales,” details the findings.

News and updates from SEMA's councils and committees.

Have a business challenge that goes beyond the walls of your shop? See a change in the market that needs to be made? Have an idea, but need some industry muscle to make it happen? Then it may be time for you to volunteer to be a leader and nominate yourself for a select committee seat on one of SEMA's councils or committees.

Officials with the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) have signed a memo of understanding with SEMA that recognizes the growing importance of the specialty-equipment market in the United Arab Emirates.