As the industry’s premier trade association, SEMA has long celebrated the spirit of volunteerism that prompts many of these individuals to give back. In fact, the association depends on such volunteerism for its very existence—its Board of Directors and council leadership are composed entirely of aftermarket professionals who donate their own time and talents to advance the industry’s goals. To support and recognize these leaders, SEMA again presented its annual Leadership Summit program July 25–27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California. The following are some highlights from the three-day industry gathering.

70+ Products to Be Unveiled at the 2012 SEMA Show

The SEMA Show is all about innovation and creativity. For a taste of what’s coming at the 2012 event, check out the more than 70 new products previewed here. During the Show, head to the upper level of South Hall for a look at the Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase at the Las Vegas Convention Center from October 30–November 2, 2012.

Helping International Buyers Find You at the SEMA Show

In a post-SEMA Show survey, exhibitors identified meeting potential new international customers and developing relationships with overseas buyers as an increasingly important goal. Exhibitors also felt that there was an increased international presence, with more global attendees at the 2011 SEMA Show than in the past several years—and they were correct! More than 25% of all buyers at the 2011 SEMA Show were from more than 100 nations outside the United States.

Put Your New and Featured Products Front and Center

Each year, hundreds of specialty-equipment businesses debut their newest products at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. If you’re an exhibitor in search of buyer and press attention for your latest and greatest innovations, there’s no better way to get it than the Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Product Showcase section.

SEMA’s Vehicle Technology Center

One of the central principles of lean customization is the Japanese term Genchi Genbutsu, which means “go and see.” To truly understand new business opportunities and the impact vehicle technology is having on automotive specialty-equipment products, you need to Go to the Gemba—the place where value and meaning are created.

A Tidal Wave of New Exhibitors Have Committed to the 2012 SEMA Show

Last year, more than 600 hundred companies came to the SEMA Show for the first time, bringing their hottest products. It’s still early, but all indications are that the final count of first-time exhibitors will be just as strong for SEMA 2012. For buyers, this will be the year’s best opportunity to connect with new manufacturers and suppliers.

Early Preparation Is the Key to a Successful Show

The SEMA Show draws hundreds of new exhibitors every year. Six hundred companies were first-time exhibitors at last year’s Show, and this year’s Show is expected to surpass that number. In fact, there is an entire section of the floor dedicated solely to new and featured exhibitors.

The Science of Standardized Product Data Management for Manufacturers and Re-sellers With SEMA Data Co-op

Exhibiting for the first time at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas may seem daunting, but the association and ConvExx, the Show’s organizers, provide a wealth of information about how to prepare, get set up and ensure the best return on investment. From learning the lingo to keeping track of sales leads, there are plenty of resources that will help first-timers—and seasoned veterans—connect with the right buyers for the best partnerships. It all begins with a visit to the official Show website and the Exhibitor Manual.

SEMA Honors Nick Arias Jr., Bill France Sr., Mark Heffington and Bob Larivee Sr. With Hall of Fame Induction

For a chosen few, an obsession develops. Regardless of personal or professional success, this select group never stops raising the bar. Even when they take the checkered flag at the track or produce an event that attracts thousands of rabid fans or they literally break the mold when it comes to reinventing performance parts, it’s still not enough. There’s always room for improvement, and every person inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame spends a lifetime trying to find it.