LONG BEACH, CA (02.10.26) – KENWOOD, a leading manufacturer of premium mobile electronics solutions, proudly announces its 2025 Reps and Rep Firms of the Year, recognizing outstanding sales performance, leadership, and partnership across its regional representative network.
These annual awards honor individuals and firms that consistently demonstrate excellence in sales execution, dealer support, and brand representation throughout the year.
Mark Gliesner holds the Eastern Region Rep of the Year plaque flanked by Tim Hill, National Sales Manager and Kelly McDaniel Eastern Regional Sales Manager on the right.
Eastern Region Rep Firm of the Year Progressive Southeast Patrick Eiland, Christian Venn, Mark Gleisner Territory Rep of the Year Gregg Gagnon – Progressive Florida Progressive Southeast and Gregg Gagnon were recognized for their strong regional leadership, exceptional dealer relationships, and continued commitment to driving KENWOOD growth in the Eastern Region.
Keith Shelby, Cardinal Sales, holds the Rep of the Year plaque for the Mid-West region. Tim Hill, National Sales Manager (L) and Josh Bowen, Mid-West Sales Manager flank Keith.
Mid-West Region Rep Firm of the Year Momentum Marketing Hector Mena, Jimmy Bradfield, Ben Pugh, Katie Lopez Rep of the Year Keith Selby – Cardinal Sales Momentum Marketing and Keith Selby demonstrated consistent excellence through strategic market development, teamwork, and outstanding individual performance across the Mid-West Region.
Connor Roberts holds the Western Region Rep of the Year plaque and is flanked by Tim Hill (L) National Sales Manager and Ryan Christie Western Regional Sales Manager.
Western Region Rep Firm of the Year Progressive Northern California Dennis Medeiros, Paul Francia Rep of the Year Connor Roberts – Progressive West The Western Region awards recognize exceptional leadership, customer focus, and impactful sales results delivered throughout the year.
“These award recipients represent the very best of KENWOOD’s sales organization,” said Tim Hill, Director of sales. “Their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to our dealers play a vital role in our continued success.”
KENWOOD congratulates all 2025 award winners and thanks its representative partners nationwide for their ongoing support and partnership.
METAIRIE, LA (2.10.26) — ORACLE Lighting proudly announces the launch of its Linear Universal LED 3rd Brake Light (CHMSL) Module — Red, a versatile and high-performance lighting solution engineered to elevate both vehicle safety and aesthetic presence. Designed for universal application across automotive, utility, and custom-build platforms, this modern LED module delivers a crisp, continuous “blade” of red light that enhances visibility in critical signaling applications.
“This new linear LED brake light module reflects ORACLE Lighting’s commitment to blending cutting-edge design with real-world functionality,” said a spokesperson for ORACLE Lighting. “Whether enhancing rear-facing safety lighting on a truck, trailer, or specialty build—or adding a refined red accent in unique applications—this product sets a new standard for versatility, durability, and clarity.”
Innovative Design Meets Universal Utility
The new module produces a modern continuous red-light signature that significantly improves visibility over traditional point-style LEDs, making it ideal for center high mount stop light (CHMSL) use as well as marker, stop, or accent lighting.
Universal Application: Engineered to serve as a third brake light, stop/marker light, trailer light, or interior accent across OEM and custom applications.
Modern Blade Illumination: Ultra-bright linear red light enhances both safety and contemporary vehicle aesthetics.
Engineered for Harsh Conditions: Featuring an IP68-rated sealed design and UV-stable red acrylic lens, the module withstands water, dust, and vibration for dependable exterior or interior use.
Flexible Installation: Dual mounting tabs and pre-installed VHB tape provide secure screw-in or quick-adhesion options, simplifying integration across varied surfaces.
Wide Voltage Compatibility: Operates on standard 12V–24V DC electrical systems, supporting a broad range of vehicles and equipment.
Compact Form, Big Impact: At approximately 7″ in length, this sleek module fits tight spaces while delivering strong output, drawing only 0.15A with a 6W output.
Built to meet the demands of daily use and challenging environments, the Linear Universal LED CHMSL Module is backed by ORACLE Lighting’s reputation for high-quality engineering and performance-driven innovation.
Availability
The ORACLE Lighting Linear Universal LED 3rd Brake Light (CHMSL) Module — Red is now available through the ORACLE Lighting online store. For additional information, technical resources, and imagery, visit www.oraclelights.com.
TEMPE, AZ (2.10.26) – 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.
PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ (02.09.26) – The Findlay Toyota Center was Livin’Loud with action on Friday night February 6th for Round 9 of the AMA KICKER ArenaCross ’25-’26 Pro Schedule. The arena area was reconfigured from a hockey rink to a dirt track with mound after mound riders had to navigate as they made their way around the track.
Once the track opened riders cranked up their bikes and made their ways around the very difficult track circuit where the dirt mounds were barely 15 feet apart. Many of the riders were able to fly over one mound and land on the downside of the next mound. Some riders didn’t have smooth landings and had to adjust their body parts before continuing the race.
On Thursday, they were working on getting the track prepared for the event.
On Friday, the action was underway.
KICKER had a booth set up in the lobby with a wide selection of products set up on tables under the tent. AMA Arenacross attendees are definitely interested in audio products as many enjoy motorcycle, PowerSport, Lifestyle and/or marine activities in addition to their everyday drives.
Before the doors opened, Lorin Morrell had the Kicker booth set.
KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s RZR trackside was loaded with 4 KMXL65s, 2 KMB8d, 2 KMXL8s and 2 Premium marine 10”. woofers. The ride rocked in demos.
Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media relayed “In the Prescott Valley area there are a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities. PowerBars for side-by-sides and marine installs plus under seat truck boxes and Harley setups grabbed a lot of interest in the KICKER booth. Attendees checked out live demos on the RZR next to the booth plus KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s loaded RZR trackside. Also many trailers are now being upgraded with audio and KICKER offers many options.”
Lorin Morrell presented this lucky T-shirt toss winner her Bullfrog prize and KICKER T-shirt.
“This AMA KICKER Arenacross season continues with events in Reno NV, Guthrie OK and in Daytone Beach. Across the U.S. attendance has been strong this year with attendees engaging with KICKER’s wide selection of products” Morrell concluded.
SHREVEPORT, LA (02.09.26) – The 12volt Central Studios offers multiple ways for 12volt industry members to connect across the 12volt community and with consumers while delivering fresh industry news. The 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball is the latest way. The 12voltSTP Tool, Custom QR Codes and 12volt Central Studios offer easy to use opportunities to connect with industry members and consumers. A SMARTPHONE is all it takes….318 469 2526 IS THE NUMBER!
An industry member can hold a product in their office, snap an image, and we can put them in their custom studio. That can get their 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play.
In-person trade shows, consumer and distributor shows are terrific venues to connect and show new products in one-on-one settings. Tradeshow and distributor show attendance over the last years has diminished. The 12volt Central Studios can put a company in their own custom studio utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool and deliver their message to the 12volt industry with the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members must realize successful marketing is a 24/7 journey.
In today’s AI driven digital and social media world it is more important than ever for members of the 12volt industry to connect with industry members and consumers. These activities are more important than ever to drive in-vehicle automotive upgrade awareness and business for brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or appreciate the separation of mid-range and highs on a smartphone or laptop. The in-store experience is more important than ever!
A 12volt industry member can be out a show trade show, consumer show or a rep on the road calling calling on dealers. With the 12voltSTP Tool all it takes is for that industry member to snap and txt and Image, with a few words, to 318-469-2526 and we can put the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play showcasing your activities.
Custom QR Codes are also available for industry members. Scan this QR Code to see the latest industry news.
METAIRIE, LA (01.09.26) — ORACLE Lighting continues to advance automotive interior customization with the release of its most comprehensive lighting system to date: the Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit. This premium, full-cabin LED illumination system delivers unmatched versatility, dynamic lighting effects, and refined ambient light across dashboards, door panels, footwells, door handles, and storage zones for virtually any vehicle.
Built on ORACLE’s innovative Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ technology, this universal kit transforms the interior environment by enabling full-spectrum color shifts, synchronized multi-zone lighting, and customizable effects that enhance both aesthetic appeal and nighttime usability. Whether used to create a subtle ambient glow or bold animated lighting patterns, this solution reimagines interior lighting for drivers, enthusiasts, and automotive builders seeking a modern, immersive cabin experience.
“We designed this all-in-one LED system to meet the rising demand for premium interior lighting that’s intuitive, expressive, and adaptable to any build,” said a spokesperson for ORACLE Lighting. “With complete cabin coverage, multi-zone control, and a universal fit, this kit offers both visual impact and functional illumination — bringing a new dimension to how vehicle owners personalize their interiors.”
Key Features & Benefits
Full-Cabin Coverage: Comprehensive 18-piece LED ensemble with strips and accent pods engineered to illuminate dashboards, door panels, footwells, pockets, and door handles.
Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ Technology: Delivers smooth, seamless transitions across a full color spectrum, with customizable lighting modes and effects to match any mood or style.
Advanced Multi-Zone Control: Includes one main controller and four sub-controllers with five dynamic relays to maintain consistent performance across lighting zones.
Flexible Activation: Control lighting via an integrated switch button or Bluetooth-enabled interface for convenient mode selection.
Universal Application: Purpose-built for easy installation in a wide range of vehicles without model-specific modifications, offering enthusiasts and custom builders maximum flexibility.
Complete Kit: Includes LED strips (36″, four 30″, one 8″), footwell pod emitters, pocket and storage LEDs, door handle accents, controllers, relays, wiring harnesses, and a splitter for plug-and-play setup.
This dynamic interior system enhances both ambiance and functionality, improving visibility after dark while delivering an elevated, professional-grade lighting experience far beyond standard interior lighting solutions.
Availability
The Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit is now available for purchase through the ORACLE Lighting online store. For detailed product information, installation resources, and high-resolution visuals, visit www.oraclelights.com.
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.
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