DIAMOND BAR, CA (2.6.26) – The automotive performance world mourns the loss of a titan. Ed “Isky” Iskenderian, the legendary engine builder known globally as “The Camfather” and the first President (a role equivalent to today’s Chairman) of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), has passed away at the age of 104.
Iskenderian was the last surviving founding member of the group that established SEMA in 1963. At its inception, SEMA was an all-volunteer organization; Iskenderian and his fellow founders took on the task of organizing the industry in addition to running their own burgeoning businesses. This selfless dedication transformed a hobby into a professional, $52 billion global industry.
Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of SEMA and PRI, issued the following statement: “Today, the automotive world lost its North Star. Ed Iskenderian was not just a founder of SEMA; he was the soul of it. As our first President, he turned a hobby into an industry. He and the original founders were volunteers who recognized — at the height of their own careers — that our industry needed a unified voice to survive and grow.
“Long before there were data logs and computer modeling, there was Ed — a man with a slide rule, a cigar, and an uncanny ability to find power where others found limits. While we mourn the loss of ‘The Camfather,’ we celebrate a century of a life lived at full throttle. We are all driving in the tracks he laid down as a volunteer leader over 60 years ago.”
Under Iskenderian’s early leadership, SEMA was founded to provide a unified voice for manufacturers during a time of rapid growth and increasing regulatory scrutiny. His ability to unite competitors for the greater good of the industry remains the cornerstone of the Association’s mission today.
TEMPE, AZ (2.6.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is proud to announce it has added world-class designer Ben Hermance to this year’s educational lineup, joining the MasterTech Expo faculty to lead Master Design Training – Session 1, a focused program centered on advanced professional 3D rendering and design workflow for automotive design and custom builds. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.
“Ben brings to MasterTech his renowned experience working with industry-leading builders, fabrication shops, and global aftermarket brands, blending artistic creativity with real-world engineering and production design,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This new training track gives attendees rare insight into professional-level vehicle concept development, digital design strategy, and turning ideas into build-ready reality.”
Hermance has worked and designed with everyone from top industry builders to fab, paint, and interior shops, plus major aftermarket corporations across the globe. Whether it’s a heartfelt portrait gift, a wild hot concept, or a full-blown high-budget custom ride, Ben brings the same passion and precision to every project.
“If you’re into next-level custom design, smart engineering, and turning ideas into jaw-dropping reality, you won’t want to miss this opportunity…only at MasterTech Expo,” Schmitt concluded.
Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (2.5.26) – MB Quart Q Speakers are German-built and unleash higher quality sound in every aspect and detail of audio. Superior sound meets dynamic playback that sets the bar for any song. The QSE-216 Q Series 6.5-inch 2-way component speaker system features 1-inch Military A-Spec Titanium dome tweeters with Butyl rubber surrounds in a cast-aluminum housing, and innovative cone materials with lightweight mica-filled poly blend.
Balanced Temperature Technology (BTT) is used through every component in the Q Speaker system as a diecast aluminum basket frame is designed to be lightweight and extremely rigid as the low-profile form can be easily installed in most factory locations with little or no modification required. Embrace every feature that redefines your speaker gains to the Q LEVEL of performance with Q speakers.
BOCA RATON, FL (2.5.26) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is reflecting on a year of strong momentum and meaningful growth in 2025. Driven by standout franchisee performance, strategic investments and partnerships, an enhanced marketing strategy, and the launch of its online booking platform, the brand strengthened its presence in local markets while streamlining the customer experience. Building on that momentum, Tint World is already seeing continued success in 2026, earning the #1 ranking in the Window Tinting category and #206 overall in the 2026 Franchise 500®, climbing 24 spots from last year and reinforcing its position as an industry leader.
This was also the brand’s first year crossing the $100M mark in Store Revenue, signaling a powerful year of accelerated growth and expanding market impact.
“As we move into 2026, our priority is to continue building a franchise system that empowers entrepreneurs and delivers an exceptional experience for our customers. We plan to build off last year’s momentum through a focused strategy centered on technology, training, and targeted marketing,” said Charles Bonfiglio, Founder and CEO of Tint World. “We’re committed to giving our owners the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow, and that commitment is what drives every decision we make.”
In 2026, the brand has a goal of awarding 85 new franchises, opening more than 50 additional locations, and expanding its store conversion program, which offers independent automotive shop owners a streamlined path to enhanced scalability and brand support.
Courtesy of Tint World
Strong and Steady Franchise Development
Tint World signed 39 Franchise Agreements with 56 stores actively in development going into 2026. Additionally, the brand opened ten stores in 2025:
Albuquerque, NM Carmel, IN Cincinnati-Newtown, OH Cypress, TX Denton, TX Edison, NJ Marina Del Rey, CA Ocala, FL Pantego, TX Torrance, CA
Strategic Investments and Partnerships
In 2025, the brand announced a strategic investment from Susquehanna Growth Equity (“SGE”), an entrepreneur-centric growth equity firm. This investment marks Tint World’s first institutional capital, which will be used to enhance operational support, accelerate franchise development, and further solidify the brand’s leading position in the automotive aftermarket industry.
Tint World also announced a preferred partnership agreement with Oracle Lighting, a leading provider of quality, innovative lighting solutions. Through this collaboration, franchisees gained streamlined access to over 25 years of design and development expertise, allowing consistency across the system.
Tint World Introduces Online Booking Platform
The brand introduced its online booking platform, allowing users to browse services, view availability, and secure appointments directly from their desktop or mobile device. For franchisees, the platform provides a modern, automated scheduling tool that improves workflow, reduces administrative time, and helps capture more leads from digital channels. By offering a seamless, user-friendly experience, the online booking platform supports both customer satisfaction and franchise growth, reinforcing Tint World’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence. By allowing customers to browse services, check availability, and book appointments at any time, franchisees capture more leads without relying on phone calls or manual scheduling.
Awards and Executive Growth
In April 2025, Jonathan Norman was promoted to company President. The appointment of Norman, who also continues to serve as Chief Investment Officer, laid the groundwork for strategic direction across both operations and investment as the company enters a new era of growth and global expansion.
In addition to appointing Norman to the role of brand president, Tint World was recognized by Entrepreneur in its Franchise 500 list, as well as the prestigious INC. 5000 list. Additionally, franchisees Alex and Myriam Guerrero, owners of Tint World El Paso, were identified by the International Franchise Association (IFA) as a Franchise of the Year.
Looking Ahead
Going forward, new owner training programs will be in partnership with XPEL in San Antonio, ensuring franchisees receive advanced, industry‑leading instruction. Additionally, the brand plans to roll out new kiosk software that will expedite out-of-store appointments and bookings.
ITASCA, IL (2.5.26) – Lucas Lighting is pleased to share a significant milestone in dealer support. With the February 2nd update to their bulb finder tool, dealers now have installation difficulty ratings to more than 99% of vehicles sold in the US and Canada since model year 2000. Coverage for Mexico is approximately 90%. All brands of American, Asian and European cars, SUV’s and trucks are included with exception of exotics (Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Pagani, etc.). In the fall, links to all vehicles with headlight ratings by IIHS (beginning model year 2016) were added, allowing for a more meaningful customer engagement.
The Lucas Lighting ‘Bulb Finder Tool’ attracted a lot of interest in the Booth at KnowledgeFest in Vegas.
Steve Rogers of Lucas stated, “When we began this project, we knew it was going to be a lot of work. The thousands of hours we have invested is reflective of our commitment to helping our dealers succeed in the lighting category. The only remaining obstacle for a new dealer when he executes our mantra of asking “do you ever wish you could see better at night?” is how to quote and book the job. But when you are new, how do you know how long the installation is going to take? We have rated these vehicles with a rating of 1 through 5, 1 being the easiest requiring 15 minutes or less. If you get all the way up to a 5, it would typically require 2-3 hours for the bumper either to be pulled back or completely removed to access the bulbs. With this information and our notes, the dealer can now quote the job and schedule it properly.”
Upcoming goals for Lucas Lighting are to extend the difficulty ratings back to 1978, when modern replaceable bulbs first became available for motorcycles. Snowmobile, side-by-side and motorcycle ratings are also a top priority. “Our expectation is that we can complete the next set of tasks by June of this year,” added Rogers.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (2.5.26) – MB Quart Q Speakers are German-built and unleash higher quality sound in every aspect and detail of audio. Superior sound meets dynamic playback that sets the bar for any song. The QSE-216 Q Series 6.5-inch 2-way component speaker system features 1-inch Military A-Spec Titanium dome tweeters with Butyl rubber surrounds in a cast-aluminum housing, and innovative cone materials with lightweight mica-filled poly blend.
Balanced Temperature Technology (BTT) is used through every component in the Q Speaker system as a diecast aluminum basket frame is designed to be lightweight and extremely rigid as the low-profile form can be easily installed in most factory locations with little or no modification required. Embrace every feature that redefines your speaker gains to the Q LEVEL of performance with Q speakers.
OXNARD, CA (2.4.26) – Modus is proud to announce that it has named industry veteran Mike Eckley as National Sales Manager, effective immediately.
“As Modus has continued to quickly grow since our launch last year, we needed a national sales manager not only with a wealth of 12-volt experience and a great reputation, but also one with those rare technical selling skills,” said Matt Delgado, Modus Director of Sales. “For more than 30 years, Mike has worked with some of the industry’s best brands and technologies, and he will bring these industry relationships and technical knowledge to the Modus team. We are excited to have Mike on board as we roll out our exciting products to market.”
MODUS National Sales Manager Mike Eckley and Modus Director of Sales Matt Delgado (LtoR).
Eckley is based in Florida and has worked with a number of the industry’s leading brands in sales, marketing, training, and other roles. Eckley has earned multiple industry awards, including Top 5 Rep of the Year (Mobile Electronics 2019, 2020, 2024) and Rep of the Year (Mobile Electronics 2017).
“Over the past year, I have seen the excitement surrounding the Modus brand and its technologies as it has put together a tremendous team,” said Eckley. “Now, as part of Modus, I am eager to hit the ground running and leverage my relationships to get our products and message to our nationwide dealer network.”
For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.
NEW YORK, NY (2.4.26) – SiriusXM announced its comprehensive broadcast and event schedule for Super Bowl LX Week, taking place in San Francisco February 2-8. Subscribers will enjoy multiple game broadcasts, a dedicated pop-up channel, and exclusive live sports and entertainment programming originating from the Super Bowl LX Media Center presented by EA SPORTS Madden 26.
Super Bowl Sunday Broadcasts
On Super Bowl Sunday, February 8, at 6:30 pm ET, SiriusXM will offer multiple live broadcasts of Super Bowl LX from Levi’s Stadium, including the official team broadcasts for both the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks, the national radio broadcast from Westwood One, and a Spanish-language broadcast. Channel information can be found at SiriusXM.com/NFLschedule. All Super Bowl Week programming, including the game itself, is accessible to subscribers in vehicles and via the SiriusXM app.
During the Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, listeners can tune in for the live on-field musical performance by Bad Bunny, airing on Caliente (SiriusXM 152) and Super Bowl LX Radio (SiriusXM 79).
Live Programming from San Francisco
Multiple SiriusXM channels and shows will broadcast live throughout the week from the Super Bowl LX Media Center in downtown San Francisco and other locations around the Bay Area.
SiriusXM NFL Radio (channel 88), the 24/7 NFL channel, will air live from the Super Bowl Media Center starting Monday, and feature expert commentary and interviews with athletes, executives, coaches, and celebrities. Hosts will include Rich Gannon, Jim Miller, Pat Kirwan, Kirk Morrison, Solomon Wilcots, Patrick Peterson, Isaac Rochell, Christian Fauria, Ed McCaffrey, Ryan Leaf, Matt Simms, Bruce Murray, Howard Balzer and Scott Graham. The channel will also have coverage of special events such as Super Bowl LX Opening Night, the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 announcement, and the annual NFL Honors event on February 6.
SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio (channel 82) will broadcast live Tuesday through Friday, featuring shows hosted by Radio Hall of Famer Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo, Adam Schein, and Katie Nolan.
Stephen A. Smith will host “The Stephen A. Smith Show” live from the Super Bowl Media Center on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of Super Bowl Week, and an episode of his news and politics program, “Straight Shooter with Stephen A.” on Wednesday from downtown San Francisco.
Katie Nolan will also host multiple episodes of her SiriusXM podcast, “Casuals.”
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Models Camille Kostek, Nicole Williams English, Xandra, Ellie Thumann and Katie Austin will host a special broadcast on Friday, which will air on Super Bowl LX Radio that night.
Former running back Jacob Hester will host his college sports show, “Off Campus” (SiriusXM College Sports Radio, channel 84), live each weekday.
Super Bowl LX Radio Pop-Up Channel
The annual pop-up channel, Super Bowl LX Radio (SiriusXM channel 79), launches Monday, February 2, available in cars and on the SiriusXM app. Hosted by Jacob Hester, the channel will preview the matchup between the Seahawks and Patriots and highlight the cultural and community aspects of Super Bowl Week. The channel will also provide essential information on Bay Area NFL activities, transportation, and stadium security. Programming will also be available on the NFL One Pass app for users in San Francisco.
Noah Kahan Exclusive Concert
As previously announced, 2x GRAMMY® Award nominated superstar Noah Kahan will perform an exclusive one-night-only concert on Thursday, February 5 at The Warfield in San Francisco. The acclaimed singer-songwriter will perform songs from his globally successful breakout album Stick Season including the 4x Platinum hit “Stick Season,” “Dial Drunk,” “Northern Attitude” and “You’re Gonna Go Far” as well as other fan favorites and new music from his highly-anticipated forthcoming album. The performance will air in its entirety on SiriusXM’s Alt Nation (channel 36) on Saturday, February 7 at 8pm ET. Select songs will also air on SiriusXM Hits 1, The Pulse, Coffee House and The Spectrum. Pandora users can listen to Noah Kahan HERE.
Kahan will also sit down for a one-on-one interview prior to the show with Katie Nolan for her SiriusXM podcast, “Casuals.”
TEMPE, AZ (2.4.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is shaping up to be its biggest and most impactful year yet, proudly announcing a completely sold-out show floor and expanded hotel partnerships to accommodate record attendance. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.
“With exhibit space officially sold out, attendees can expect an elevated show floor experience featuring a top-tier mix of technology innovators, fabrication leaders, and major audio manufacturers, creating one of the most diverse and hands-on learning environments in the industry,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “Selling out our exhibit space is a huge milestone. It allows us to curate a higher-quality experience for attendees — more brands, better education, and better connections across every segment of the industry.”
Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.
TORONTO, ON (02.03.26) – The 68th Annual Toronto International Boat Show took place, January 17th through the 25th, at the Enercare Centre in Toronto’s Exhibition Place. Once again, it was a very well attended show and an opportunity for boating enthusiast to see the latest products. Over 500 exhibitors were on the event floor with over 1000 boats. Canadian Distributors Importel, GEMSEM and Automobility were on site supporting brands that were looking to connect and make waves this summer.
Importel had a full booth, where they were spotlighting the Wet Sounds and SiriusXM brands. In the booth, the Wet Sounds wide selection of marine products, including amplifiers, speakers and marine receiver, along with wake tower speakers and new portable speaker were spotlighted. There were also Wet Sounds catalogs and swag items available as Ricky Lima connected with attendees.
In the adjoining booth SiriusXM Canada brand partner was spotlighting the wide selection subscribers can discover new every day, including exclusive music channels. The Sirius XM Onyx EZR Boombox bundle vehicle kit is a dock and play radio that let’s all enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio not just in their car but in their boat and beyond. Kelly Holley, Director of Sales & Marketing for Importel was in the booth showing the latest during the event.
GEMSEN Sales Rep with WIT Marketing Dave Maslen introduced Branden Sega to one of the new JL Audio Marine Amplifiers. Sega Marine and Powersports had a booth at the event connecting with consumers.
GEMSEM was on site with a booth showcasing the latest JL Audio Marine products. Dave Singh, National Sales Manager, was in the booth along with Duane Lee the GEMSEN North East Ontario sales rep spotlighting the latest. In addition GEMSEN supported local dealer Sega Marine and Powersports. Dave Maslen with WIT Marketing worked with Brenden Sega to present the new JL Audio AP200/4BT compact powerhouse and features build-in Bluetooth streaming. A KICKER display was also featured in the Sega Marine and Powersports booth.
Dave Singh and Duane Lee ready to show new JLAudio products in the booth.
Automobility’s Jeremy Glover sent this image of the Hertz booth backdrop as the final up was being completed.
Automobility Canada was also on site to show the very latest from Hertz Marine products. The large display really grabbed attention and gave boating enthusiasts plenty to check out.
Seeing distributors, reps and dealers working together at consumer events is a great for make waves on the water in 2026 and beyond.
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