Jammin’ N June… It’s Summer Time!

12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (06.04.26) – Jammin’ N June… It’s Summer Time and time to ‘Crank It Up’! Your store’s followers can get Jammin’ N June with great gear for their rides. Let them know your store has the HiTech in-dash media, powerful amps, speakers and more to get their rides Jammin’ N June. LED vehicle lighting too! Invite consumers to Crank Up their rides, bikes, boats and UTVs.

That theme can grab the attention of social media followers and consumers to create store traffic for 12volt retailers. Utilize this Jammin’ N June graphic for your social media posts. Screenshot the graphic and use it for social media posts… for free!

Online sales have been on a steady rise for the past several years. Inventory shortages, plus inflation and gas prices have slowed business for many retailers. Jammin’ N June themed activities, by proactive 12volt retailers, can drive consumer awareness and traffic into stores… and very importantly drive sales.

It’s imperative that 12volt retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration in the showroom will bring a smile to the consumer’s face and can raise the hair on their arms… making the cash register ring also.

In-person retail events and Sound-Off are creating excitement again in the marketplace. These facts indicate 12volt enthusiasts and consumers are ready to Crank It Up and get Jammin’ N June!

12volt retailers can save this image and utilize it in posts for their store.

From the 12volt Central Studios we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The 12voltSTP Tool makes that easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image to 318-469-2526 PRESTO! Your positive activities could be in The 12volt News.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On.’ Let’s get Jammin’ N June! Much more to come from the 12volt Central Studios.

Radio Active Hosted IASCA Sound Quality Challenge

PELHAM, AL (06.03.26) – Radio Active hosted an IASCA Sound Quality Challenge on Saturday, May 30th in Pelham AL. Andy Otwell, a sound-off competition competitor and now somewhat retired from the lanes, was on site to the judge the event. Registration was at 9 AM and judging began at 10.

The Radio Active store sets up perfectly for a competition, with a large well-done showroom with adequate area for the judging. Plenty of space for a delicious lunch from the grill outside. Wesley Fields and Kevin Hill, and the staff, were terrific hosts for the event.

Wesley Fields and Kevin Hill-R hold an IASCA appreciation plaque for hosting the event.
A 1st place winner and 2nd place winner Bryan Gary-R hold their awards.

Andy relayed “It was great judging this competition to really get the season rolling. The vehicles judged were of high-quality and well designed. A special guest on site was Bryan Gary who was on his way to the Skills USA event happening this week in Atlanta, GA. Bryan is a serious competitor who had on his T-shirt from the recent KICKER SQ@HQ event in Stillwater OK.”

“It was super to engage in the IASCA competition in Pelham, to talk with other competitors plus talking with Andy about his history as a competitor. It was great to stop on Saturday as I was on my way to Atlanta to be involved with the Skills USA event which encourages young students and enthusiasts to get involved with mobile electronics” Bryan Gary related.

After a busy morning in the judging lane, it was time for a delicious lunch
Andy Otwell, in the red IASCA judge’s shirt, listening to the conversation about the competition he judged.

To wrap the day on Saturday the Radio Active staff provided a delicious lunch that included burgers from the grill. The lunch
time also provided an opportunity for all on site to connect about their next competition and possible system upgrades.

As the competition season is kicking off in 2026 it appears that all is lining up for a great season.

Radio Active has been serving the Pelham/Birmingham area since 1986.

For more see radioactivebirmingham.com

Audiopipe Introduces The New APB Series AGM Battery Line

DORAL, FL (06.03.26) – The APB Series gives dealers, installers, and distributors multiple battery options for audio builds that require stronger electrical support, system stability, and high-current delivery for heavy bass demand. The lineup includes several capacity options, ranging from compact support batteries to larger models for higher-demand systems.

Key highlights include:

  • AGM deep cycle 12V battery design
  • Built for car audio power support
  • Designed to help support voltage stability under demand
  • Multiple capacity options available
  • Intended for dealers, installers, and distributors serving the 12V audio market

Visit audiopipe.com for more.

Shallow Bass Innovation with HEW ELITE

LIBERTYVILL, IL (06.03.26) – Feel what shallow bass can do in tighter space! Hifonics HEW shallow subwoofers deliver deeper BIG BASS PUNCH innovated through shallow subwoofer performance. Featuring a unique cone design and high-excursion capabilities that ensure accurate low details and deeper bass — HEW subwoofers make sound ELITE.

With a sleek, low-profile design, HEW ELITE subwoofers deliver deep, resonant bass while fitting easily into compact spaces such as under seats, in small trunk spaces, or behind panels. Choose from either the HEW12D4S (12-inch), HEW10D4S (10-inch), or HEW8D4S (8-inch) subwoofer models. MAKE BASS GAINS ELITE!

For more info, click here.

Alpine Announces New Partnership with DAS Companies

AUBURN HILLS, MI (06.02.26) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) is excited to announce the integration into the DAS Companies distribution ecosystem. This new strategic partnership will assist in delivering exclusive Alpine products to DAS Companies’ Mid-Atlantic Territory.

“Alpine is thrilled to be partnering with DAS Companies; we are optimistic that this partnership will continue to strengthen our current distribution system for our dealers,” said Dan Sparks, National Sales Director at Alps Alpine North America. “As a former rep myself, I know firsthand how important it is to have reliable inventory access and logistical support for our dealers. We are confident that having DAS Companies as a resource will help day to day operations streamline exponentially.”

DAS Companies has been a leader in the supply chain sector for decades and specializes in a wide variety of industries such as travel equipment and auto products. Alpine is aligned with DAS Companies on their commitment to supporting on-the-go active lifestyles and a passion for the mobile electronics market. DAS Company sets the standard for customer satisfaction by offering same-day pick-up and next-day delivery as well as an acute knowledge of market trends and insights to help dealers succeed.

“DAS looks forward to representing Alpine as everything our dealers seek in a premium mobile electronics partner,” said Ken Litten, CE/HD Sales & Marketing Manager at DAS Companies, Inc. “This partnership kicks-off a new chapter for our dealer network and reinforces our commitment to bringing the right brands to the right markets at the right time. That’s always been the DAS way.”

For those interested in learning more about the onboarding process through DAS Companies, Alpine’s rep firm, OPUS Marketing, and DAS Companies will be exhibiting at Knowledge Fest Atlantic City 2026 and will have resources available to help facilitate the onboarding process. Details of this partnership were communicated earlier this month through internal channels.

Visit alpsalpine.com and dasinc.com for more.

Tint World Appoints Christy Johnson as Chief Marketing Officer

BOCA RATON, FL (06.02.26) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has named marketing executive Christy Johnson as Chief Marketing Officer.

Johnson’s appointment reflects Tint World’s continued investment in strengthening brand awareness, enhancing franchisee support and accelerating long-term domestic and international growth. She joins during a period of continued expansion as the company strengthens its leadership infrastructure and franchise support systems to drive a sustainable growth strategy forward.

“Christy brings a strategic mindset, significant marketing leadership and franchise expertise that will guide Tint World through its next phase of growth,” said Founder and CEO of Tint World Charles Bonfiglio. “She has a deep-rooted understanding of how to build brands that drive consumer engagement and build franchisee success. We’re excited to welcome her to the leadership team.”

Johnson joins the company following leadership roles with global franchise brands including Papa John’s and Yum! Brands, bringing decades of expertise in franchise marketing, brand strategy and consumer engagement. Throughout her career, Johnson’s leadership has championed bold strategies to scale brands from early-stage development to international expansion. Her experience spans franchise operations, field and consumer marketing using data-driven best practices.

“I’m excited to work alongside the team to further strengthen customer engagement and franchisee support across the system,” said Johnson. “Tint World is a lifestyle brand with an enthusiastic customer base and a strong franchise community. The opportunity to drive an integrated global marketing strategy to impact growth is exciting, and I look forward to leading the evolution of the brand.”

As Chief Marketing Officer, Johnson will oversee Tint World’s global marketing strategy and brand positioning, customer engagement initiatives, as well as franchise marketing. She will lead customer loyalty, digital and social storytelling, and franchise support to drive growth across the country and internationally.

With locations spanning coast to coast and a growing international footprint, Tint World continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the automotive aftermarket industry while investing in the people, systems and strategies that support long-term franchise success.

For more information on Tint World® and available franchise opportunities, please visit www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities.

Brutus BG brings BIG POWER

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.02.26) – MASSIVE in power — BRUTUS BG amplifiers deliver the legendary Hifonics performance you expect — with a NEW built-in VU Meter and dual toroidal transformer PWM power supply. Get ready for your customers to raise their amplifier game through BRUTUS GAMMA amplifier innovation. BIG POWER STARTS NOW.

Hifonics BRUTUS BG amplifiers feature mass-loaded extruded aluminum heat sinks that result in better thermal management and output performance. In addition, every BRUTUS BG amplifier comes innovated with MOSFETS designed for higher output power gains and fast thermal dissipation, making your customer’s audio cleaner.

To learn more, click here.

Lucas Lighting At The Pacific Northwest Expo

SEATTLE, WA (06.01.26) – Lucas Lighting had a prominent position in the Team Progressive area on the show floor at the Pacific Northwest expo. Barry Lightfoot was very busy during the Expo spending time in the booth showing the Lucas product lineup and conducting two training sessions. “Connecting with dealers in-person at the Pacific Northwest Expo was a terrific opportunity to learn how consumers are engaging with aftermarket lighting upgrades.”

The Lucas Lighting booth setup to showcase to wide selection of products.
Barry Lightfoot worked the booth and conducted training sessions.

Lightfoot continued “Even though LED lights have been around for a long time, it’s even more important now to understand current market conditions, and succeed in this emerging category. Lucas Lighting has the tools to help all retailers find new opportunities without trading dollars for other products in their stores.”

Barry Lightfoot conducting the Tuesday morning training session.

Lightfoot conducted well attended Lucas lighting trainings on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. “At booth trainings dealers were engaged and asked how other retailers are driving business in the lighting category? We have in-store displays plus POP materials that show benefits of LED upgrades on the road at night. Having a booth in Seattle worked out very well for Lucas Lighting” Lightfoot concluded.

For more see lucas.lighting.com

Team Nutz Was ‘Crankin’ It Up’ Around Pittsburgh In May

PITTSBURGH PA (06.01.26) – Team Nutz, with Ed and Nina Nuttall behind the wheel, continues to support community events in the Pittsburgh area. Recent examples in the month of May included a Community Parade in Carnegie PA on this past Sunday, a Touch A Truck event on Thursday the 28th and this past Saturday a Car Show that included a Tiny Cause fundraiser for dogs.

The Team Nutz Jeep draws a crowd everywhere.
The Touch A Truck event getting underway.

The decked out Team Nutz Jeep grabs attention with all of the aftermarket upgrades and lighting. On the parade routes at community events the Team Nutz Jeep makes fun tosses and also entertains crowds along the route with music. Live demos at all events bring smiles at all events. The Touch A Truck events feature firetrucks, ambulances, and other vehicles that provide services for the community.

The Team Nutz booth set up and ready.
Attendees at these community events will be telling their friends about their experience for weeks.

“The Car Show last Saturday in Monroeville had about 250 cars and the event raised money for the Dog Shelter. Unfortunately members of the crowd did not get a chance for a demo in the Team Nutz Jeep. A dog we were taking to the event got sick and we had to the dog back to the shop. We had the Team Nutz tent set up with swag and handouts. June will be busy also with the Bantam Jeep Fest” Nuttall relayed.

At all of these events Team Nutz is engaging with a broad selection of community members to showcase many products for their rides and to drive sales. All 12volt retailers can also drive awareness and sales by participating community events.

For more see teamnutztechnology.com.

D Source Distributing Expands Rockford Fosgate Coverage Into Wisconsin And Illinois

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN (05.29.26) – D Source Distributing is proud to announce the expansion of its Rockford Fosgate distribution coverage into Wisconsin and Illinois, further strengthening the company’s support of specialty 12V retailers throughout the Upper Midwest.

The partnership originally launched in March 2025, when D Source began representing the Rockford Fosgate brand across Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Since then, D Source, working alongside Mike Tang of Progressive Sales / Rockford Fosgate, has helped support continued growth across Mobile Audio, Marine, Motorcycle, and Powersports categories throughout the region.

With this territory expansion now in place, D Source’s inside and outside sales teams are actively supporting retailers throughout Wisconsin and Illinois with enhanced regional inventory access, responsive sales support, and just-in-time fulfillment designed to help dealers better serve their customers.

The expansion reflects a strategic and disciplined approach focused on strengthening support for qualified specialty retailers throughout the region. D Source recognizes the importance of protecting both the integrity of the Rockford Fosgate brand and the long-term success of its authorized dealer network. As a premium performance audio manufacturer, Rockford Fosgate products require knowledgeable representation, technical expertise, and a high level of customer support, standards that align closely with D Source’s long-standing approach to the 12V marketplace.

“Rockford Fosgate has built one of the strongest dealer-driven brands in the industry, and we take that responsibility seriously,” said Jeff Causton of D Source Distributing. “Our role is not simply to expand availability, but to support the right retailers with the service, inventory, and market support necessary to help them grow their business while maintaining the integrity of the brand.”

“We’ve seen firsthand the professionalism, market discipline, and dealer-focused approach D Source brings to the business,” said Zach Luke, President of Rockford Fosgate. “They understand the importance of protecting the integrity of the brand while elevating the retailer experience through strong support, technical knowledge, and operational execution. D Source has proven to be an outstanding partner, and we look forward to continuing our growth together throughout the region.”

As a long-standing specialty distributor, D Source continues to focus on strategic growth, operational excellence, and strong dealer partnerships designed specifically for the independent 12V retailer channel. The company’s inside and outside sales structure, regional inventory support, and commitment to responsive service have helped establish D Source as a trusted resource throughout the Upper Midwest.

12V retailers throughout Wisconsin and Illinois interested in learning more about Rockford Fosgate opportunities may contact D Source Distributing at sales@dsourcedistributing.com or visit dsourcedistributing.com.