SSR Distributors Sets 2026 Dallas Dealer Show For May 17

DALLAS, TX (02.24.26) – “We are excited to officially invite you to participate in the SSR Distributors 2026 Dallas Dealer Show on Sunday, May 17, 2026” Tracy Farr, VP of Sales & Operations, related.

This will be our fifth annual Dealer Show, and we plan on making it bigger and more exciting than our previous four events. Each year, the momentum continues to grow, and 2026 will be no exception. We are targeting 175–200+ dealers in attendance, bringing together some of the strongest independent retailers in our region for a full day of networking, show specials, product education, and relationship building.

Our Dealer Show has become a key annual event for our dealers, and we would love for you to be part of it again this year.

Opportunities to Participate Include:

  • Booth space to showcase new and existing product lines (limited availability)
  • Show-only promotions
  • Dealer training sessions — let me know if you’re interested in hosting a training, and we will work to get it scheduled
  • Goodie bags for dealer registration — if you’re able to contribute items such as stickers, bags, shirts, hats, keychains, pins, or other giveaways, please ship them to:

SSR Distributors
Attn: Gary Durham
2880 Virgo Ln.
Dallas, TX 75229

In addition, we will be hosting two raffle drawings with dedicated raffle tables during the event. We will be requesting product donations to raffle off to attending dealers. Raffles are always a highlight of the show and a great way to generate excitement and brand visibility. We hope you will consider participating in this as well.

This is a prime opportunity to increase brand exposure, strengthen dealer relationships, and drive meaningful business in our territory.

Please let me know if you would like to reserve booth space, as availability is limited and will fill quickly. Once your invitation has been accepted, booth space details, show registration information, and hotel arrangements will be sent to you.

We truly value our partnership and look forward to building an even stronger 2026 together.

Contact Tracy@ssrdistributors.com or see https://ssrdistributors.com/

Meet Dan Bowman – A Consummate Sales Strategist and Devoted Business Catalyst

(02.24.26) – With a career built on exceptional sales acumen and an enduring passion for automobiles, Dan represents the perfect balance of strategy and drive. His approach transforms every negotiation into an art form and every sale into a calculated success.

Join Dan as he shares proven techniques and forward-thinking strategies designed to help you unlock new levels of profitability, customer engagement, and long-term growth. Experience the synergy between strategic brilliance and automotive passion — and discover how to turn opportunity into achievement.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Day 1 – Attachments & Upsells: Master the art of value expansion and maximizing every customer interaction.
  • Day 2 – Diversified Revenue Streams: Learn how to build multiple pathways for sustained business growth.
  • Day 3 – Social Media & Marketing as a Sales Tool: Leverage modern platforms to amplify your reach and drive results.

Don’t miss this powerful three-day Sales Summit that will redefine how you sell, connect, and succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.

Register at www.cmaexpo.ca

The 2025/2026 AMA ArenaCross Series Wrapped Just 33 Miles From KICKER’s World HQ In Stillwater

GUTHRIE, OK (02.23.26) – The 2026 KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series was Livin’Loud in the huge Lazy E Arena in Guthrie on Friday night February 20th for the Series Finale. The Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is a mere 33 miles from KICKER’s World HQ in Stillwater, OK.

The stands in the Lazy E Arena were filled.

On track the action was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Since KICKER’s HQ is so close there was a large turnout of nearly 200 KICKER team members and family in the VIP section. In addition KICKER dealer Quality Diesel from Choctaw OK was in the house along with Rick Dewey from the Marketing Pros rep firm.

This Kawasaki was Livin’Loud and bright with KICKER. Phil Lambert photo.
The Pro Pits were full.

“It was an amazing event with great action on track and a packed house that extended to the grand stand and VIP Area with many tables. Attendance estimate was nearly 5000 enthusiasts and some traveled from several hours away. The Lazy E Arena doors opened early for the long line that took 30 minutes to enter the arena. We had a KICKER tent and displays set up adjacent to the track area so virtually everyone who entered the Lazy E Arena had a chance to check out the KICKER setup. We had a selection of KICKER products for all to see. A Kawasaki loaded with KICKER and lights was on hand for all to checkout. As attendees entered by the booth we handed out hundreds of KICKER lanyards. Attendees asked Rick many questions and Stephanie handed out a ton of Quality Diesel cards” Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media, related.

Lorin Morrell presented the Bullfrog prize to the T-shirt toss winner.
Lorin snapped this selfie with Stephanie and Rick Dewey, Marketing Pros, in the KICKER booth.

The Pit Party got the action started on the track with enthusiasts walking the track and talking with riders and checking out their rides. In addition to the racing action on the track an air cannon fired KICKER T-shirts into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. A special KICKER T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BullFrog that was picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby.

25/26 KICKER ArenaCross Season Champion Ryan Breece racing for the win. Phil Lambert photo.
The 25/26 KICKER ArenaCross Season Champion Ryan Breece and his MCR Honda Race Team on the stage.

Concluding Morrell added “The AMA ArenaCross 2025-2026 wrapped on a high ‘Livin’Loud’ note in Guthrie. At previous events this year across the US enthusiasts have packed the stands with a high energy level and connected with the KICKER brand and
products that make their rides special.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

SEMA Statement on US Supreme Court Tariffs Decision

WASHINGTON, DC (02.23.26) – In response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 6-3 ruling to strike down the Trump Administration’s tariffs issued under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA), the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) made the following statement:

“SEMA hopes this court decision enables the space to establish a transition period where American companies can reshore their operations, diversify their supply chains, and re-establish their domestic manufacturing capabilities. We encourage President Trump to continue to remove regulatory barriers that hamper the ability of small manufacturers to thrive domestically.”

BACKGROUND
Tariffs on automotive parts, as well as steel- and aluminum-derivative items, are not impacted by this legal decision. SEMA will continue to advocate for a level playing field for those who depend on domestically sourced raw materials.

The automotive aftermarket that SEMA represents has an annual economic impact of $337 billion, supporting more than 1.3 million American jobs.

The vast majority of SEMA member businesses, and of the broader automotive aftermarket, are small, domestic manufacturers who are committed to Made in America principles.

SEMA, in a previous letter to the Trump Administration, has urged the use of incentives that support American manufacturers as they transition their capabilities, including tariff exemptions for things like molds, tooling, and machinery brought back to the United States, as well as tax incentives to offset the associated costs.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

Crunch Delivers Power You Can See and Performance You Can Feel

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (02.23.26) – Patent pending VU Meter technology is placed directly on top of every V-DRIVE amplifier, allowing for convenient tuning for capturing the best possible sound from your Crunch car audio installation. Selectable logo illumination modes include switching between full constant red LED lights, VU Meter mode, or full off.

V-DRIVE amplifiers come in mono, 2-channel, and 4-channel configurations and feature clean and undistorted sound in a smaller space that takes audio to new levels of power for deeper output and richer listening gains.

To learn more, click here.

JEEP BEACH 2026 – A Must-Attend Industry Opportunity

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (02.20.26) – Jeep Beach 2026 is gearing up to deliver one of the most powerful consumer engagement platforms in the country for the mobile electronics and aftermarket industries.

This city-wide, exclusively Jeep-centric series of events culminates in a two-day Consumer Expo on April 24–25 at the Daytona International Speedway. The infield will be filled with vendors and tens of thousands of highly engaged Jeep enthusiasts actively seeking products, upgrades, and installations.

For manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, Jeep Beach presents a rare opportunity:

  • Direct-to-consumer sales
  • Immediate brand exposure to a concentrated enthusiast market
  • Onsite installations within the iconic NASCAR Garages
  • Strong collaboration opportunities between vendors and their dealer networks
Jeeps are spotlighted in front of the DaytonaI International Speedway at a previous Jeep Beach event.

As a long-time dealer in the marketplace, Soundcrafters’ principal, Paul Papadeas, shares:
“Participating year after year has been an exceptionally positive experience. The Jeep Beach team is outstanding, and they work for a truly meaningful cause. The sales impact, brand exposure, and sheer volume of impressions are remarkable. In many ways, this event surpasses the industry impact we once experienced at Spring Break Nationals. Jeep Beach represents a real opportunity for the industry to move beyond the challenges of the past few years, re-engage dealer networks, and reenergize sales.”

Jeepers will be able to show their skills on these mounds on the infield of the Daytona Internation Speedway.

Vendor space is competitively priced relative to the nonstop foot traffic and high-intent audience. Beyond the business opportunity, Jeep Beach operates as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, having contributed over $5,000,000.00 to both Local and National Charities adding a meaningful philanthropic dimension to participation.

For brands looking to strengthen dealer relationships, increase market visibility, and generate immediate revenue in a high-energy environment, Jeep Beach 2026 is a strategic event to prioritize.

For additional information, visit www.jeepbeach.com.

Lucas Lighting Unveils M-Series Mini Bulbs

ITASCA, IL (02.20.26) – Lucas Lighting is pleased to share details of the new standard in mini bulbs, M-Series. Vice President Steve Rogers reports, “After more than three years of development and more prototypes than any other project in our history, we have delivered what I believe are the finest automotive mini bulbs available today. Our design criteria were significant, and we were able to achieve everything we set out to accomplish.” 

Lucas bulb installation in a 2019 Ford Escape

Highlights of the line include: 

Position matching of LED chipsets to the original halogen bulb to optimize light pattern and amplification from the original factory housing. 

Custom tooled 31 and 74 series connectors to ensure a tight click in fit. 

These utilize headlight chipsets to optimize output using fewer chips (light sources) than typically found on mini bulbs. 

Addition of red single and dual output bulbs to optimize visibility with proper color retention for braking. 

Optimized current draw eliminates the need for resistors on turn signals and better than 90% of bulb checking systems. 

Advanced heat dissipation for prolonged life. 

“While all the bulbs are fantastic, the T15 style may be the one I am most proud of. The style is exclusively used as a reverse bulb and for truck bed lighting. This compact model has nearly double the output of a halogen headlight bulb and 5 times that of a standard T15! Our first recommendation when upgrading lighting is the low beam position, the second is reverse lights. If you have a backup camera, it will work more effectively in the dark. If you have tinted windows, you will see significantly better through the glass,” Rogers added. 

19 of the 26 new models are available now. 

For additional information, please visit www.lucas-lighting.com.

Rydeen Mobile Electronics Strengthens Midwest Presence with Two Strategic Rep Firm Partnerships

TORRANCE, CA (02.20.2026) – Rydeen Mobile Electronics has announced key additions to its Midwest sales representative network. Through partnerships with two established manufacturer’s representative firms, Rydeen is bringing premium vehicle safety solutions closer to retailers and installers across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Western Pennsylvania, making advanced safety technology like digital rear view mirrors and 360° view camera systems more accessible throughout the region.

With the aftermarket playing an increasingly vital role in vehicle safety, Rydeen continues to invest in strong regional partnerships that deliver superior support and service to local dealers.

“Expanding our Midwest territory with these experienced partners ensures that car audio retailers and professional installers have the resources and inventory they need to meet growing consumer demand for advanced safety technology,” says Rex Berfield,

Rydeen’s National Sales Manager.
We are proud to announce the appointment of Midwest Sales and Online Representatives
to help us expand our brand coverage.

Midwest Sales
Midwest Sales, a leading manufacturers’ representative firm in Michigan, is proud to announce the addition of Rydeen Mobile Electronics to its portfolio of innovative brands. This new partnership strengthens Midwest Sales’ commitment to delivering technology driven mobile electronics solutions to the marketplace.

“This brand is an exciting addition to our line card, and we are happy to partner with the Rydeen Team,” said Michael Schafer. “Rydeen Mobile brings a strong reputation for innovation and reliability, and we’re thrilled to represent a brand that aligns so well with our vision and the needs of our customers. “With this new representation, Midwest Sales will provide sales, support, and market development for Rydeen Mobile’s product line, ensuring strong visibility and growth across the region.

Online Marketing
Online Marketing is a rep firm committed to your success. We strengthen and support our dealer partners by representing multiple manufacturers across Ohio, Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan.

“Online Marketing is looking forward to working with the Rydeen Mobile team. Rydeen has proven to be a trusted and reliable manufacturer for many years, and one that we look forward to helping support and grow with independent dealers in our market.”

For more information, visit: www.rydeenmobile.com.

Boomers Audio Marine Made Big Waves At The 2026 Tulsa Boat Show

TULSA, OK (02.19.26) – The SageNet Center at Expo Square in Tulsa OK was packed for the 2026 Tulsa Boat Show. Boomers Audio had a very active booth in the facility that totals 466,000 ft.². February 2nd thru 8th were the dates of the show. The massive show floor is filled with boats, RVs, carts and companies showing marine accessories.

Mike Hudson, the Captain of Boomer Audio Marine, reported it was one of the best shows ever. Their booth was set up to spotlight new products and projects with displays that provided all attendees are real understanding of the products and quality of services that Boomers offers. Sandy Hudson, Mike’s wife, was also on deck.

This floor plan shows the scope of the event size.
This is the Boomer Audio Marine booth with ProDek as set up was nearing completion.

“We have been having a booth at this event for years and each year the take away from being at the show drives business. We have a great shell of a boat that we’re working on that will be completed in the next couple of months. Once finished, we will hit the road and visit the seven lakes around the Tulsa area with our demo boat. Spending a weekend at a lake participating in the poker runs and activities at the docks will drive even more business for our crew to get out and do on site installation at lake facilities.

The Wet Sounds lineup was spotlighted.
This image shows the quality of custom work.

The first night of the talk show was terrific with a community type VIP night we were able to provide food and refreshments for attendees which increased the time that they spent in our booth looking at products.

ProDek did the work on this Boomer Audio Marine display counter with show floor in the background during setup.
ProDek’s Logan Buxton ready to roll in the Boomer Audio Maine booth.

Our booth set up at the show was terrific with 3400 ft.² location next to a main entryway with the restroom facilities right down the hall. At the event we made appointments for future installations at our facility in Tulsa. ProDek, one of our business partners that we work with was also in our booth showing the high-quality decks that his company installs on boats.

“We have been at the Tulsa Boat Show with Boomer Audio Marine several years and it is such a great opportunity to show marine enthusiasts in person the upgrades we offer for their boats” ProDek’s Logan Buxton related.

Stay tuned for more from Boomers Audio Marine to see how this proactive retailer will drive marine business.

Visit www.boomersaudio.net for more.

BOSS Elite Announces Rep Firms of the Year

OXNARD, CA (02.19.26) – BOSS Audio Systems is proud to announce it has named its Elite Regional Rep Firms of the Year during the recent KnowledgeFest Las Vegas, held Feb. 3-5, 2026.

The Elite Rep Firms of the Year are:
• Eastern: 12 Volt Marketing Group
• Central: Echo Sales
• Western: Ovation

BOSS Elite recently awarded Echo Sales its Central Region Rep Firm of the Year. (l-r) Nick Sugino (Elite Sales) with Echo Sales’ Don Geiger, Adrian Manrique, Doug Hanson, Chris Hilbert, and Justin Sura.
BOSS Elite recently awarded Ovation its Western Region Rep Firm of the Year. (l-r) Colin Ross (Elite Brand Manager), Greg Orlando (Elite Sales Manager), with Ovation’s Clay Nelson and Rick Nissenson.

“BOSS Elite has worked overtime the past few years to continually gain traction and a dedicated following across the country as we continually roll out new products across our speaker, amplifier, and source unit lines,” said Matt Delgado, BOSS Elite Director of Sales. “It takes a dedicated group of partners to help us achieve these goals out in the market. We are proud to present our annual awards to 12 Volt Marketing Group, Echo Sales, and Ovation for their exemplary dedication and performance as we look forward to another exciting year ahead.”

For more information about B.I.G. or to become a dealer, please visit sales.bossinternationalgroup.com.

Visit www.bossaudio.com for more.