Patrick Industries and LCI Industries to Combine in All-Stock Merger, Creating a Premier Platform Serving Global Outdoor Enthusiast, Housing and Other Markets

Posted on July 8, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Uncategorized.

ELKHART, IN (07.09.26) – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Patrick Industries (NASDAQ: PATK) (“Patrick”) and LCI Industries (NYSE: LCII) (“LCI” or “Lippert”) announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger, forming a premier component solutions provider for the outdoor enthusiast, housing and transportation markets. Under the agreement, which the Boards of Directors of both companies unanimously approved, LCI shareholders will receive 1.2440 shares of Patrick common stock for each share of LCI common stock they own.

Following completion of the transaction, Patrick shareholders will own approximately 52% of the combined company and LCI shareholders will own approximately 48%.

This strategic combination brings together two companies with complementary product portfolios and longstanding partnerships with customers and stakeholders across North America and Europe. Together, Patrick and Lippert will create a more dynamic, innovative, solutions-oriented platform serving a diverse range of OEMs and consumers in the outdoor enthusiast, housing, transportation and other markets, through a broader portfolio of brands, more efficient operations, enhanced R&D investment and commercialization capabilities. By bringing together Patrick’s integrated design-to-delivery capabilities and Lippert’s expertise in highly engineered, structural OEM and aftermarket components, the combined organization will deliver differentiated, cost-effective competitive solutions aimed at improving affordability, strengthening value chain alignment and delivering outstanding customer service while supporting long-term organic and strategic growth and disciplined capital allocation.

As a result, the combined company will be well positioned to enhance value for the shareholders of each company through bolstered financial performance, reduced costs, and a continued focus on execution, all while providing outdoor enthusiasts with impressive new solutions and an enhanced array of competitively priced products.

“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the evolution of our two companies as we continue on our journey to positively impact and deliver value for our customers, our team members, shareholders, and the communities we serve,” said Andy Nemeth, CEO of Patrick. “We have long respected the Lippert team and their impressive, innovative capabilities across the solutions they deliver and are thrilled to reach this milestone. We have two highly successful, well-established organizations with long track records of strategic and organic growth, innovation, and customer service, supported by incredible talent across each enterprise, deep expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we will create a premier partnership-oriented platform for the global outdoor enthusiast ecosystem, housing and transportation markets that is more resilient, and better positioned to serve all of our customers – from OEMs to the end consumer. We remain dedicated to our culture and values focused on humility and trust, the reinvestment in our vision, business, and strategy with the goal of delivering an even brighter future for the stakeholders we serve.”

Johnny Sirpilla, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Lippert, added, “This combination represents a defining moment for Lippert. Our shareholders will benefit from ownership in a more diversified company with the financial and operational strength to grow revenues and deliver outstanding value to shareholders and other stakeholders. As two complementary businesses with strong legacies deeply rooted in Elkhart and our other local communities, we understand the potential and positive impact this combination can deliver. Together, we can offer a broader, more innovative, competitive, and affordable portfolio of products and product solutions, as we work with our partners and customers in key segments to drive greater value for end consumers. We will also continue to invest in our growth and combined capabilities, creating new opportunities for team members and charting an exciting new future for the combined company.”

Clear Strategic Rationale

Creates a Premier Component Solutions Provider for the Outdoor Recreation, Housing and Transportation Markets: The combination creates a leading provider across recreational vehicle, marine, powersports, truck and adventure / off-road, transportation, automotive and housing markets. With enhanced resources, the combined company’s solutions-based offerings will enable OEMs to better address affordability for end consumers. Improved diversification across end markets and expanded capabilities position the combined company for greater stability and durable growth across industry cycles.
Highly Complementary Portfolios Strengthen Ability to Serve Customers and Enhance the End User Experience: Patrick and Lippert offer strategically adjacent product capabilities, creating a diversified portfolio across interior, exterior, structural and mechanical systems. The combined company will remain a trusted partner to OEM and aftermarket customers, with expanded R&D, broader capabilities, and accelerated speed-to-market, enhancing innovation and the overall end-user experience.
Expands Aftermarket Channel Access and Distribution Networks: Lippert’s established brands, distribution infrastructure and channel access meaningfully advance Patrick’s strategic priority to expand its aftermarket presence. This expansion further enhances revenue growth, helping offset OEM production cyclicality, and improves the margin profile of the combined company.
Strengthens Long-Term Commitment to Local Communities: Patrick and Lippert share a commitment to supporting the communities where their team members live, work, and enjoy the outdoors. Together, they will further develop their strong community partnerships to inspire and support the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
Compelling Financial Benefits for Patrick and Lippert Shareholders

Delivers a Resilient Financial Profile with Strong Cash Flow Generation: On a pro forma basis, the combined company’s trailing twelve months results as of March 2026 would be approximately $8.1 billion of revenue, adjusted EBITDA of $1.0 billion inclusive of synergies, and free cash flow of $508 million inclusive of synergies.

Drives Meaningful, Achievable Cost Synergies: The transaction is expected to deliver over $150 million of run-rate cost synergies achieved within three years of closing. These synergies are identified and actionable, arising primarily from procurement, SG&A efficiencies, engineering best practices, and improved supply chain management.

Provides Balance Sheet Flexibility: The combined company will have a strong balance sheet with expected pro forma net leverage of 2.1x and the liquidity and flexibility to support continued investment in growth and capital returns. The combined company’s capital allocation strategy will focus on reinvesting operating cash flows in the business within a disciplined net leverage target of 2.25x to 2.5x, with priorities including strategic growth and automation-oriented capital expenditures while returning cash to shareholders through share repurchases and a balanced dividend policy.
Leadership, Governance and Headquarters

Upon closing, Patrick Industries CEO Andy Nemeth will serve as CEO of the combined company.

The Board of Directors of the combined company will consist of 12 directors, with six designated by Patrick and six designated by Lippert. Patrick Director Todd Cleveland will serve as Chair of the Board and Lippert Interim CEO and Director Johnny Sirpilla will serve as Vice Chair of the Board.

The combined company will employ a collaborative approach to identify executive management and other leaders for key business units.

Following the closing of the transaction, the combined company will be headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana.

Timing and Approvals

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to approval by shareholders of both companies, the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Advisors

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as lead financial advisor and Baird is serving as co-lead financial advisor to Patrick Industries and McDermott Will & Schulte LLP is serving as legal advisor. Perella Weinberg Partners LP is serving as financial advisor to LCI Industries and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor. FGS Global is serving as strategic communications advisor to LCI Industries.

Conference Call, Webcast and Presentation

Patrick and Lippert will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss the transaction. Participation in the question-and-answer session of the call will be limited to institutional investors and analysts. The dial-in number for the live conference call is (877) 407-9036. The webcast and accompanying slides can be accessed on both companies’ investor relations websites. A replay of the conference call will be available on both companies’ investor relations websites following the call. A dedicated website with more information about the transaction is available at PatrickandLippertTogether.com.

Memphis 250th Amplifiers and Sub Launch

Posted on July 7, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

MEMPHIS, TN (07.08.26) – Memphis dropped the bass this Fourth of July when it unveiled the limited-edition United States 250th Anniversary Collection—a patriotic lineup of commemorative Power Reference amplifiers and subwoofers built for enthusiasts who believe freedom should always come with a volume knob.

America’s 250th birthday deserves more than fireworks.

It deserves bass.

The United States 250th Anniversary Collection features the 76PRX500.4V2 four-channel amplifier, 76PRX1000.1V2 monoblock amplifier, and 76PRXL12FTV 12-inch Power Reference subwoofer with Memphis Audio’s patented FLEX™ selectable 1Ω, 2Ω, or 4Ω impedance technology. Every product in the collection features an aggressive stealth black-on-black American flag design, delivering a clean, custom appearance while proudly honoring America’s 250th anniversary.

The anniversary amplifiers come alive with red, white, and blue LED accent lighting that illuminates both the acrylic logo panel and the ground beneath the amplifier, while the subwoofer features a custom American flag “M” center logo and an integrated RGB LED illuminated cone accent ring that can be set to patriotic red, white, and blue or virtually any color to match your build. The anniversary subwoofer doesn’t just look different, it hits harder too. Memphis engineers increased its power handling to 500 watts RMS, a 25% increase over the previous Power Reference model, giving enthusiasts even more bass to back up its bold new look. Together, the collection delivers a one-of-a-kind custom appearance that stands out whether you’re showing off your build at a car show or simply turning up the volume.

For more than 60 years, Memphis Audio has proudly designed and developed products in the United States by passionate car audio enthusiasts. The United States 250th Anniversary Collection is our tribute to the country that gave us the freedom to express ourselves, build incredible systems, and enjoy the music we love.

“We’re Americans. We love loud music. We love bass. We love building cool stuff,” said Nick LoMonaco, President of Memphis Audio. “When we started this project, we knew one thing—we weren’t making another cheesy patriotic product. We wanted something aggressive, custom, and unmistakably Memphis. The result is one of the coolest limited-edition collections we’ve ever released.”

The response has been overwhelming. Dealers and enthusiasts have been grabbing these limited-edition products since they were announced, and demand continues to build every day. With only a limited production run planned, once they’re gone, they’re gone forever. If you’ve been looking for a unique way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while owning a true piece of Memphis Audio history, this is it.

This isn’t just another product line.

It’s a celebration of American car audio culture.

It’s a salute to 250 years of freedom.

And it’s proof that Freedom Gets Loud.

FOR ADDITIONAL PRODUCT INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
ELLIS MATHIS: EMATHIS@MEMPHISCARAUDIO.COM
228-596-2512

Tune your Ford Bronco Lifestyle with LOUD SOUND with MB Quart

Posted on July 7, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.08.26) – Designed to deliver concert-thrilling LOUD audio in every song — Ford Bronco® Tuned Audio Kits are innovated to make powerful sound that keeps up with the Bronco lifestyle and brings an immersive soundscape wherever the drive takes you.

MB Quart Ford Bronco® Tuned Audio Packages pack high-efficiency speakers, powerful subwoofers, and compact Class-D amplifiersinto a complete vehicle-specific audio upgrade. Engineered to take on the elements and deliver exceptional clarity, output, and bass performance, these systems are built for every adventure.

Upgrade your 2025–2026 Ford Bronco® and experience sound that is BUILT LOUD through Music. Defined.

To learn more, click here.

IASCA Strengthens Latin America Partnership at ASOPARTES ExpoPartes and ExtremeFest in Medellín, Colombia

Posted on July 7, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

MEDELLÍN, COLOMBIA (07.07.26) — IASCA enjoyed a successful and productive week at the ASOPARTES ExpoPartes and ExtremeFest, held July 2–4 at Plaza Mayor. The event brought together automotive enthusiasts, manufacturers, and competitors from across the region, with multiple exhibition halls showcasing the latest products and innovations. The dedicated car audio hall featured numerous high-level sound quality competition vehicles, highlighting the continued growth of the hobby throughout Latin America.

Throughout the event, IASCA conducted several educational seminars, including an introductory presentation on car audio for students interested in learning about the industry and competitive sound quality. On Saturday, competitors participated in a Sound Quality Clinic where they received detailed evaluations and feedback from multiple experienced judges, including IASCA President Travis Chin. The clinic provided valuable insight to help competitors refine their systems and prepare for future events.

The event also marked an important milestone for IASCA Latinamérica. A new series of regional competitions will begin later this year, culminating in a championship finale scheduled for January 2027. The partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica is expected to further expand organized sound quality competition throughout the region.

“It was an honor to be a guest at the ExpoPartes event and to help build the partnership between ASOPARTES and IASCA Latinamérica,” said . “It was a great time reuniting with past competitors I had met over a decade ago. Thanks to the ASOPARTES staff and IASCA Latinamérica staff for the hospitality.”

Pictured: Eduardo Tascon, Calros Andrés Pineda, Travis Chin, Luis Orlando Tores Clavijo, Manuel Fandiño, Carlos Romero, Javier Pardo.

IASCA extends its appreciation to ASOPARTES, IASCA Latinamérica, event organizers, volunteers, competitors, and attendees for making the event a tremendous success. The enthusiasm displayed throughout the weekend demonstrated the bright future of organized car audio competition in Colombia and across Latin America.

Visit iascaworldwide.com for more.

HKI USA Team Ensures Continued Customer Support Following Territory Transition

Posted on July 7, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

DANIA BEACH, FL (07.07.26) — HKI USA today recognized the dedication and teamwork of its representatives following the recent departure of Elias Ventura, who previously managed the Mid-Atlantic territory.

In response to the transition, HKI USA team members quickly stepped up to ensure customers continued receiving the service, communication, and support they have come to expect. By working together across roles and responsibilities, the team maintained coverage throughout the territory while keeping customer needs at the center of every decision.

“We are extremely proud of how our team responded during this transition,” said Jacob Brown, Director of Operations at HKI USA. “Their professionalism, flexibility, and commitment to our dealers reflect the strength of our organization and the values we work hard to uphold every day.”

The company emphasized that the territory remains fully supported and that customers can continue to rely on HKI USA for responsive service, product knowledge, and dependable partnership. The transition also highlighted the depth of experience within the organization and the team’s ability to adapt quickly when circumstances change.

HKI USA remains focused on serving its customers with consistency and care while continuing to support the representatives who have taken initiative during this transition. The 12Volt Specialists have stepped up to cover New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, JB Associates is handling Maryland and Delaware, and Ambassador Marketing is supporting Virginia, ensuring dealers throughout the Mid-Atlantic territory continue to receive responsive service and dependable partnership.

East PA and New England – 12 Volt Specialist – (978) 804-3966
Maryland, West PA and MidWest – JB & Associates – (304) 633-4880
Virginia, TN, NC, AC and SouthEast – Ambassador – (561) 385-1974

For more information regarding HKI USA, and the brands they represent, please visit www.HKI-USA.com.

Feel the Bass with HFX from Hifonics

Posted on July 6, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.07.26) – The HFX subwoofer lineup just got LOUDER. NOW AVAILABLE in 8 and 10-inch sizes (along with the 12-inch) — the HFX series brings HARD-HITTING BASS to any build — BIG or small.

Built to hit. Tuned to stay clean. HFX subwoofers are engineered with heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frames, pressure-treated, durable foam surrounds, and dual voice coils that keep bass tight, controlled, and distortion-free — even when you push it.

Get ready for deeper lows, harder punch, and sound that holds together at every volume now in more subwoofer sizes!

To learn more, click here.

The KICKER #LivinLoudTour26

Posted on July 2, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

DUQUION, IL (07.03.26) – Following the very successful LIMA Half Mile June 26 and 27th Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, put the KICKER Subaru on the road for the #LivinLoudTour26 the next stop on the American FlatTrack Series at the Magic Mile in DuQuion, IL.

**Thursday meeting at the Magic Mile before set on Friday.**

The weekdays between the events were filled with stops at KICKER dealers along the way.

The 12volt Central Studios staff followed up with Lorin Morrell’s stop at Yong‘s Audio in Indianapolis. Adam Kim related “It was terrific to meet Lorin and check out the system in the Subaru. I was amazed at the overall sound quality while taking a seat in the Subaru. It was special to spend time with Lorin talking about the overall activity across the 12 V industry. KICKER is a strong line for our company and certainly appreciated Lorin’s stop at our store.”

**The Kicker Subaru at Audio Visionz in Mount Vernon, IL with Kyla.**

**A photo with on Historic Route 66 in Litchfield, IL.**

Another follow up contact was Audio Visionz with Kyla in Mount Vernon, IL. Recently Audio Visionz came back on board with

KICKER and Kyla related ” It was great to spend time with Lorin, getting a feel of the overall KICKER line, plus spending time with consumers that came to check out the action in the Subaru.” There are also many opportunities at their sister company Midwest Truck Accessories.

“As I was behind the wheel of the Subaru one of the highways was Route 66 that is now celebrating the 100th Anniversary. After a busy week on the road, today Thursday, It’s meetings at the track and we will be setting up at the Magic Mile at the DuQuion Fairgrounds outside of Chicago for the American Flat Track series this weekend.”

Visit kicker.com and stay tuned for more.

Global Audio Marketing / MUSWAY USA Welcomes Industry Veteran and Multi-Time Champion Mel Valadez

Posted on July 2, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

MURRIETA, CA (07.03.26) – Global Audio Marketing, the exclusive U.S. distributor of MUSWAY, is proud to announce that respected industry veteran and multi-time champion Mel Valadez has joined the MUSWAY USA team.

With more than three decades of experience in the mobile electronics industry, Mel brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, sales leadership, dealer development, product training, installation knowledge, and championship-level competition experience. His addition marks another major step in Global Audio Marketing’s continued investment in building one of the fastest-growing premium mobile audio brands in the United States.

Building a Premium Brand Through Innovation

As Global Audio Marketing continues expanding MUSWAY throughout the United States, the company’s focus remains clear—bringing German engineering, cutting-edge technology, and world-class dealer support to dealers across the country.
“At Global Audio Marketing, we’re not simply selling car audio products—we’re building a premium brand that dealers can believe in for years to come. MUSWAY is a German-engineered brand founded on innovation, technology, and uncompromising sound quality. Every product we introduce is designed to solve real installation challenges while delivering exceptional performance.

Just as important as the products is our commitment to our dealers. We believe our success is measured by their success. That’s why we invest heavily in training, technical support, marketing, and maintaining strong dealer margins that allow our partners to grow profitable businesses.

Mel shares that same philosophy. His passion for education, integrity, and helping dealers succeed makes him a perfect fit for the future we’re building.”

— Andrew Bishara, CEO, Global Audio Marketing

Leading Dealer Growth Across the South Central United States

Mel will oversee dealer development and support throughout Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, focusing on new dealer acquisition, product training, DSP education, technical support, and strengthening relationships with retailers and installers.

A New Chapter

“I’ve dedicated over 30 years of my life to this industry because I truly love it,” said Mel Valadez. “Joining Global Audio Marketing and representing MUSWAY is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to help build one of the industry’s most exciting premium brands while supporting dealers and sharing products I truly believe in.”

The Future of MUSWAY USA

Global Audio Marketing continues to expand its national presence through an experienced sales organization, comprehensive dealer support, technical training, and a strong commitment to customer service. The addition of Mel Valadez reinforces that commitment and represents another important milestone in establishing MUSWAY as one of the premier high-end mobile audio brands in the United States.

About MUSWAY

Inspired by the philosophy “Music Is The Way,” MUSWAY is a German-engineered premium mobile audio brand dedicated to creating innovative solutions for today’s automotive enthusiast. Combining advanced DSP technology, award-winning amplifiers, premium loudspeakers, and intelligent system integration, MUSWAY delivers exceptional sound quality without compromise.

Visit musway.com for more.

KICKER Regional Sales Manager Named to “Women Making Waves” by Boating Trade

Posted on July 2, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Industry.

STILLWATER, OK (07.03.26) – Lori Boyer, KICKER’s Southeast Regional Sales Manager, has been named by the editors of Boating Industry magazine to its prestigious roster of 2026 “Women Making Waves.”

This major awards recognition, now in its ninth year, recognizes outstanding women leaders from all segments of the North American boating industry. Boyer was one of 30 nominees tapped for this honor and profiled in a feature story alongside all winners in the latest edition of Boating Industry magazine. A special event celebration to present the awards is slated for later this year.

“We are very proud of Lori’s outstanding recognition among her peers and appreciate the countless contributions she has made in her 38 years at KICKER,” said KICKER CEO Steve Irby. “Lori has certainly been a trailblazer and a highly dedicated member of the KICKER team. She has always focused on developing herself as an individual and a team member. Her dedication to product knowledge and expertise has made her a trusted and highly valued leader. We are very pleased by her significant distinction and well-deserved recognition.”

Boyer began her career as a file clerk at KICKER in 1988 and has proven her capability with eight progressive roles within the organization, each assuming new areas of responsibility. For the past 11 years, she has served as the southeast regional sales manager – the first female aftermarket manager in the company’s history – with responsibilities for ongoing communications and strategic 1:1 partnership collaboration to help customers increase sales and improve profitability.

“I am so honored to be included among this group of outstanding women in the marine industry and very much appreciate the nomination and recognition,” said Boyer. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career at KICKER and the continued opportunities for personal and professional growth. After 38 years, I’m still learning and growing and loving the business more every day.”

Visit kicker.com for more.

Trail Star Audio and D-Source Are Great Industry Partners

Posted on July 1, 2026 by 12VoltNews in Featured.

EAGAN, MI (7.2.26) – On June 12th, Chuck Holey went to D-Source in Bloomington MN to pick up some products. D-Source team members loaded Chuck’s truck and there was a little rain on that day. When Chuck opened the door to his truck there was an umbrella inside. When Chuck got back to his store he called Jeff Causton at D-Source and learned that Jeff had put the umbrella in his truck.

**A very happy Chuck Holey having fun in his warehouse with his new umbrella and PowerBass product.**

**Chuck arrives at D Source to show all his cardboard cutout.**

**Jeff Causton, D Source Principal, is all smiles pictured with Chuck and his cardboard cutout.**

When the STANDEE, 7 feet tall, cutout arrived Chuck checked it out and immediately went to D-Source to have fun having images snapped with Jeff and D-Source team members. The two companies are continuing to work together and having fun. Great news for all across the 12volt industry.

That made Chuck very happy and as he was unloading a PowerBass XLSS model he was dancing around in the warehouse with a PowerBass under the umbrella. He had an image snapped as he was having fun with the umbrella and the XLSS product and sent it to Jeff.

Jeff really got a kick out of seeing Chuck having so much fun. He decided to have some more fun and touched base with the STANDEE company and ordered a custom cardboard cutout of Chuck having so much fun dancing around his warehouse with the umbrella.