Tint World Named a 2022 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review

BOCA RATON, FL (03.09.22) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers was recently named a Top Franchise for 2022 by Franchise Business Review. This is the 17th annual ranking of the 200 best franchise opportunities as rated by franchise business owners. The list is available at https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/top-franchises/.

Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial and marine computerized window tinting and security film services with locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, with franchise opportunities available worldwide.

Franchise Business Review, a market research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction and employee engagement, provides the only rankings and awards for franchise companies based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of the top 200 franchises in its annual Guide to Today’s Top Franchises.

“While the pandemic impacted various business sectors differently, the last 18 months have clearly demonstrated the inherent strengths of the franchise business model. The old franchise adage of ‘being in business for yourself, but not by yourself’ has never been more important,” said Franchise Business Review founder and CEO Eric Stites. “Thanks to fast innovations, significant support, and responsive crisis management, many franchise brands have emerged stronger from the pandemic, and that is reflected in high franchisee satisfaction.”

Tint World was among over 300 franchise brands, representing more than 30,000 franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research. Tint World’s franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, and financial opportunity.

“This recognition is incredibly rewarding, because it’s coming from the people who represent Tint World in their communities,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our franchisees are the foundation of this company, and we’re passionate about empowering them to succeed by providing them all the support and resources they need. Our position on Franchise Business Review’s list of the 200 Top Franchises reflects that, and demonstrates that we’re in a unique position to continue our explosive growth, both nationally and internationally.”

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full description of the 2022 Top Franchises.

DOW Technologies Wins Distributor of the Year Award

TAMPA, FL (03.09.22) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned electronics and technology services distributor, was recently awarded Distributor of the Year at the Mobile Electronics Association Industry Awards. DOW also received the award in 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020.

The Mobile Electronics association presents the awards annually to recognize and honor those in the mobile electronics industry. The Industry Awards are voted on by the retailers and vendors working in the 12Volt industry nationwide.

This award marks DOW’s sixth win in eight years.

“I am really proud of the effort our team gives every day,” stated Mike Hurwitz, 12volt strategic sales manager. “We are focused on providing our customers the best customer service and this award recognizes the work we’ve put in over the last year.”

“This award recognizes the dedication of our entire company to support our 12Volt customers,” stated senior vice president Dave Elkin. “The sales team provides great service, building meaningful relationships with the customers. Our purchasing team works with our vendor partners to work through inventory and supply chain issues to help customers. And the warehouse teams ensure rapid order processing, getting products shipped out quickly. All of our employees can take pride in being honored by the industry.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit http://www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900. To read more about the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards, visit https://meindustryawards.com/what-are-the-industry-awards/.

Kingpin University Announces Habanero Distribution, New Classes

LAS VEGAS, NV (03.09.22) – Kingpin University showed two new kits featuring Habanero Cordless Heating Tools at the recent KnowledgeFest event in Las Vegas, a result of the new distribution agreement with the Mount Pleasant, Wisc.-based tool manufacturer. In addition, Kingpin University announced three new training classes that culminate in a multi-session group build of the company’s iconic “Rat Rod” show vehicle.

Kingpin University is marketing the Habanero Plastic Repair Kit in addition to its own custom kit. The Plastic Repair Kit (MSRP $129.99) features the USB-charging Habanero tool body in a convenient hard case. It ships with a hot staple tip, plastic welding tip and plastic filler tip, as well as charging cable, wire brush, three types of plastic filler rods and two types of staples.

The Ultimate Soldering Kit (MSRP $199.99) created by Kingpin University includes the Habanero tool body and charging cable, fine soldering tip, heat-resistant tool lid and solder roll in a transportable storage base to allow easy access in the vehicle or on a workbench.

“Habanero soldering kits are quickly becoming a favorite of installers and fabricators because of their versatility and portability,” said Jason Kranitz, lead instructor at Kingpin University. “The ability to quickly change tips to accomplish various fastening and repair jobs saves businesses time and money. We are thrilled to offer Habanero products to our students and fellow industry professionals.”

Kingpin University also added three upcoming classes to its website at kingpinuniversity.com. Fundamentals of Car Audio Online is a two-hour virtual course that will take attendees through all of the features of a professional-grade oscilloscope and show them how to use the tool to deliver maximum power and performance from an audio system. The second “Step One” virtual course for Laser / CNC work shows attendees how to use CAD software to create precise, intricate drawings that can be cut on a CNC machine.

The third course is the first of an in-session series in which attendees will design and build different sections of Kingpin University’s award-winning show car. The work will be featured at the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

For more information on Kingpin University, available training courses, Habanero tools or Kingpin Fab Products, visit kingpinuniversity.com.

DOW Technologies Seeking Account Manager – 12Volt Sales – Scottsdale Branch

DOW Technologies is an award-winning distributor of 12Volt aftermarket products. Our team focuses on the sales of car, marine and powersport vehicle audio, video, and lighting upgrade products to 12Volt shops that sell and install the products. Additional vehicle upgrades products distributed include security alarms, remote start, safety products such as blind spot detection and backup cameras, radar detection, dash cameras, and other accessories.

The primary products distributed are car audio equipment (speakers, amps, radios, subs), remote start accessories, radars, cameras and more. Supporting products include everything from cables, plugs, fuses, harnesses, adapters to other installation parts. Our primary vendor partners are Sony, Escort, Triton, Rockford Fosgate, Arc Audio, and Metra.

The Account Manager position for DOW Technologies is primarily responsible for developing and increasing business in their designated territory and pillar. You will be responsible for managing and strengthening existing accounts, as well as finding and growing new points of business, developed directly by you or developed from leads provided by any of our external partners. Job responsibilities and obligations may extend beyond normal workday hours; you may be required to work before and after hours or on weekends in order to accomplish your goals. This position will work closely with all DOW management to provide you and our customers with the materials and programs needed to make them successful.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage, plan, and execute growth strategies for accounts within your designated territory.
  • Responsible for increasing the profitability of DOW’s territories and footprint.
  • Find and develop new relationships, along with maintaining existing relationships with customers.
  • Maintain sufficient customer communication and assistance through phone, e-mail, online presentations, screen share and in-person meetings.
  • Responsible for cooperating and interacting in a team environment that allows the professional growth of all employees.
  • Communicate effectively with DOW Management, other Account Managers, and other internal departmental teams.
  • Create a monthly in-depth analysis of the territory, significant account changes, and any new competitive information.
  • Resolve customer conflicts and provide solutions in a timely manner.
  • Enhance Sales and DOW’s reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
  • Excellent organizational, time management and project management skills.
  • Strive to exceed projected Key Performance Indicators. 
  • Regularly meet with DOW Management to develop and shape the DOW Electronics vision.
  • Ability to travel for short or extended periods including overnight travel as requested.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits Offered:

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Basic Life and Long-Term Disability
  • Optional Short-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance at extremely low rates
  • 401K Plan with 10% unlimited company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid PTO, Bereavement and Jury Duty
  • Relaxed dress code
  • Flexible scheduling if it can meet the needs of customers
  • Product and technical training
  • Upbeat atmosphere and fun work culture 
  • Family owned and operated
  • Employee Purchase Program with a payroll deduction potential

Requirements

Required Qualifications: 

  • Highly focused and proactive to handle simultaneous deadlines.
  • Extremely motivated, self-starter with a passion to succeed. 
  • Drive to learn new technologies and products. 
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and work well under pressure.
  • Knowledge of computer programs including Microsoft Office Suite, word processing, spreadsheets and      databases; media storage.
  • Valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Demands:

  • Able to sit and work at a computer keyboard and using the telephone for extended amounts of time.
  • Able to perform general office administrative activities.
  • Able to stoop, kneel, bend at the waist, and reach on a daily basis.
  • Ability to safely, frequently and independently move and handle up to 25 lbs.
  • Ability to drive 3-5 days a week for up to and exceeding 8-10 hours a day 
  • Ability to travel via airplane as required
  • Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.

If interested in the position, click here to apply: shorturl.at/fmtP2

PowerBass Seeking Warranty & Returns Manager – Ontario, CA

PowerBass USA, Inc., an established Southern California Car Audio Manufacturer is seeking an experienced Warranty & Returns Manager with advanced 12V knowledge and preferred past installation expertise to work in its corporate office located in Ontario, California.

This position handles all dealer and consumer warranty returns calls, documentation, and RMA generation as well as fielding back up technical support calls in a professional and courteous manner.

In the primary role of Warranty Department Manager, the candidate will show the ability to work independently, efficiently, and effectively handling daily tasks that are critical to an effective Returns and Warranty Service Department.

  • Issue RMA numbers and complete forms for proper in house tracking and logistics of all consumer and direct customer returns.
  • Receive and review all returned products to confirm the warranty status and identify all defects.
  • Complete documents to issue return sales orders for replacement or credit for warranty items
  • Working knowledge of company’s Customer Service guidelines to effectively communicate appropriately our policies and procedures.
  • Work directly with Product Development, and Engineering departments to identify updates and technical bulletins for current catalog items as well as upcoming new product design.

In the secondary role of Technical Support Assistance, the candidate will show their knowledge in 12V installation and product use as well as trouble shooting.  Answer technical support phone calls as the back up to our lead Technical Support Director.  This role will be based on experience and will not be the primary function of the new hire.

We are looking to hire this position in the next 14 days and hope to find a very motivated 12V expert ready to make the step into the manufacture side of the industry.  PowerBass USA is showing amazing growth year in and year out thanks to its advancements in product development and manufacturing as well as our wonderful staff of amazing people who all share a passion for making great products and servicing our customers around the globe.

Hourly pay based on experience, paid vacation/sick days, and optional health benefits available. Please email resume to: e.harbour@powerbassusa.com  In person interview in our corporate offices will be required for consideration.

ProLine-X Releases Ground Zero Subwoofer Boxes

DANIA BEACH, FL (03.08.22) – HKI USA has announced an amazing new partnership with ProLine-X (Vacaville CA) for subwoofer specific enclosures to help deliver a better overall experience to our retailers and their clients.

Proline-X does things very differently when it comes to building “pre-fab” enclosures by taking away the simplicity of mass market products, and focuses on using the highest quality materials, the best construction methods, and proper design and tuning of their enclosures.

Click above to view the full PDF

“Our goal here is to offer dealers a true solution that has the performance and quality necessary to reinforce Ground Zero subwoofers’ ability to play strong, deep, and accurate bass,” stated Robert Reilly of HKI USA, who spear headed this project with the Proline-X. 

While Proline-X is not new to the enclosure game, this partnership is the first manufacturer recommended enclosure line to be available nationwide, and Ground Zero is extremely proud to be able to point their dealers in the right direction. There will be available enclosures paired to the entry level Iridium lines up through the widely loved Hydrogen line. Starting with a more traditional universal style and fit, who knows where this could lead and what awesome products could be brought to the table in the future.

For more information on the enclosures, and how to become a dealer, contact Proline-X.com.

Visit GroundZeroUSA.com and HKI-USA.com for more.

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping Next-Gen Alpine Halo R-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures

AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.08.22) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping the next-generation Alpine Halo R-Series Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The enclosures come preloaded with Alpine’s new 10” and 12” R-Series subwoofers that feature an all-new design to offer a cleaner, more controlled bass response.

Deeper Bass Output
Design improvements to the R-Series subwoofers include larger double-stacked magnets, which play deeper bass with more authority. A new ceramic composite dust cap provides incredible internal damping (vibration absorption) to smooth out the frequency response and reproduce tight bass. Featuring Alpine’s High Amplitude Multi-Roll (HAMR) Surround Technology, the subwoofer cone efficiently moves air while staying cool, which also contributes to increased output from the subwoofers.

The new design and enhanced performance of the next-generation R-Series subwoofers result in a cleaner, more controlled bass response from the Alpine Halo R-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink. The ported enclosures feature a vent and rounded internal port edges that maximize the output performance of the subwoofer, for deeper, reliable bass. Each enclosure is also wired for optimized performance with Alpine’s R-Series R-A75M Mono Power Amplifier.

Unique ProLink Technology
Alpine’s unique ProLink technology was designed with the sound system builder in mind. ProLink allows more flexibility in both power and price to start with a single subwoofer enclosure and add an additional subwoofer using a Linking Kit (sold separately) to join two enclosures together to create a dual system when more bass is desired.

Groundbreaking Alpine Halo Design
The Alpine Halo R-Series Preloaded Subwoofer Enclosures with ProLink share the premium, unmistakable design of the Alpine Halo Family. The enclosures pull design cues from the Alpine Halo Display with unique, curved edges outlined by a silver trim and a front baffle for a matching system aesthetic. Built with sturdy, 3/4” MDF construction and covered in a premium black carpet, these enclosures give the impression of a custom look, without the custom work.

The R2-SB12V and R2-SB10V are now shipping at a MAP of $499.95 and $449.95 respectively and are available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

SiriusXM Launches New Training Portal for Retailers

NEW YORK, NY (03.08.22) – 12volt retailers now have the most up to date training information at their fingertips.

This one-page announcement has all the details. 12volt retailer staff members simply scan the QR code and sign up for the training. Once the training has been completed the user will be sent a 90 day free streaming code and also be entered in for a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card.

Click above to view full PDF

There will be 10 monthly $50 Amazon gift card winners and 1 quarterly $250 Amazon gift card winner.

Visit siriusxm.com for more.

Stereo King Shined at the 2022 Portland International Show That Drew Over 90,000 Attendees

PORTLAND, OR (03.07.22) – The Portland International Auto Show is the largest auto show in the Northwest. Stereo King was on site to show their latest builds and connect with members of the crowd, estimated at over 90,000, for the 4-Day run February 24th-27th 2022 at the Oregon Convention Center.

The Stereo King booth occupied a large area in The Garage section in the Convention Center.
Members of the Stereo King crew gathered around the SK Jeep for this image.

Attendees previewed the latest vehicles and automotive technology with over 500 new cars, trucks, SUV’s and power sports vehicles. Stereo King certainly had a lot to show in the setting that featured more than 35 auto manufacturers. The Stereo King team on site included GM Kevin Cornutt, Manager Scotty Miles and an additional crew of half a dozen. No doubt the SKJeep build was the loudest and brightest vehicle in the Contention Center. The Viper Coupe was back again and attracted a many to the booth during the event along with the Polaris side-by-side.

“Stereo King was located in The Garage area. This area in the Convention Center has grown to over 30,000 square feet and we could feel the energy as we were setting up our area on Tuesday and Wednesday before the show opened on Thursday,” Scotty Miles related.

The SK Jeep is amazing from any angle… Check out the amp rack, speaker pods and LED whips!
Ethan Larson completing one of the on-site installations in the booth. Jon Joynt and Alex Osterhousdt also worked on in-booth builds.

Continuing Miles stated “In The Garage area there were live customization jobs taking place on a 2022 Tacoma TRD and Polaris side by side  and Toyota 4 Runner. Attendees were attracted to these activities and spent lots of time checking out lift kits, customized suspension, a full body wrap and vehicles in the Stereo King booth showcasing 12volt products. As attendees watched there was quality time to answer their questions and talk about aftermarket add-ons Stereo King offered for their rides.” Stereo King was listed in the event program as a company in The Garage Area.

Throughout the event’s 4-day run attendees were drawn to The Garage and spent time in the large Stereo King booth. Even the Oregon University Duck Mascot gave a big cheer in the booth. Lighting, headlights and in-vehicle LED lighting, plus radar detectors interested attendees too. The Stereo King radar display, featuring Escort and Cobra, led to sales in that category. The dash cam category also attracted interest in the booth.

The power sports category is rapidly growing in the great Northwest and this Stereo King Polaris let all know the company is tops in the area.
Even the Oregon University Duck Mascot was impressed in the Stereo King booth.

In the Stereo King booth the SKJeep was restricted and was not cranked up to anywhere near its volume potential. As a post show promo the SKJeep will be setup outside the Stereo King Clackamas store March 7th-11th. Attendees were made aware of that promotion and many expressed interest in attending. Social media posts will also add visibility for followers to experience the SKJeep at the Clackamas location.

The 2023 Portland International Auto Show is already penciled in on the Stereo King event calendar.

Visit stereoking.com for more.

Alpine Electronics Introduces High-Resolution Alpine Status System

AUBURN HILLS, MI (03.07.22) – Alps Alpine Co., Ltd. a leading manufacturer of electronic components and automotive infotainment systems, and its domestic marketing division Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., introduces the High-Resolution Alpine Status System with High-Spec High-Resolution Audio Playback (192kHz/24Bit).

“Our constant pursuit to create and implement the best components and technology into sound systems like AlpineF#1Status trickle down into platforms like Alpine Status and push each product to achieve the highest in audio performance,” said Mike Anderson, Vice President and General Manager, Brand Business Unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.

High-Resolution Sound Made Accessible

Using the same engineering and design concepts drawn from the third generation, Ultra High-Resolution AlpineF#1Status system, Alpine created Alpine Status to achieve High-Resolution Sound at a more approachable and accessible price point.

Alpine Status achieves 192kHz/24Bit playback, which is 6.5 times the amount of digital audio data in a standard CD or digital streaming service and exceeds the standard High-Resolution Spec of 96kHz/24Bit found in most aftermarket sound solutions. This allows Alpine Status to capture and accurately reproduce details like the breath of the artist or a musician’s subtle interaction with an instrument. This capability not only reproduces music to the artist’s original intention but emulates the experience of a studio recording in the vehicle.

High-Resolution System Components

Alpine Status features eight components that are optimized in both power and performance as a complete system to play at their intended high-resolution spec. However, each component can be purchased independently for custom system building. 

The HDS-990 Head Unit achieves 192kHz/24Bit playback via wired USB DAC connection or wireless Bluetooth connection. This ensures that any High-Resolution music files stored on a USB or smartphone will be reproduced at the intended spec. The Head Unit includes a compact controller with buttons for basic music controls, a High-Resolution color screen that displays playback data and album cover artwork, a volume knob for quick sound controls, and a separate black box for flexible installation in the vehicle. High-Resolution 25Wx4 amplifier output, high-performance RCA outputs, and an optical TOSLINK port allow for flexible system building with the HDP-D90 Digital Signal Processor (DSP) Amplifier.

The HDP-D90 DSP Amplifier has a 192kHz/64Bit internal sampling rate and an ultra-wide audio bandwidth of 10Hz-110kHz to reproduce sound at its intended High-Resolution spec. Intentional designs, like a copper-plated chassis, bring the signal-to-noise ratio up to >110dB and minimize noise and distortion during playback. Drawing inspiration from the internal Master Clock Management System in the AlpineF#1Status DSP, the HDP-D90 contains a Crystal Oscillator Clock Generator at the core of the unit that tracks and aligns digital information to eliminate jitter (timing errors) and accurately reproduce sound. 

The DSP has multiple input options for flexible system building. For vehicles that are unable to replace the factory head unit, the DSP has 12 channels of high-level input that allow the factory head unit to be retained. For those who wish to upgrade their factory head unit, the DSP has optical inputs that can add the Alpine Status HDS-990 Head Unit or analog inputs for another aftermarket head unit. The DSP also functions as a standalone music source and can receive music sent directly from a smartphone with Bluetooth wireless streaming.

While the HDP-D90 has 12-channels of amplification (50W x 8 + 80W x 4) and can be used to power an entire system, 10-channels of RCA output can be used to add Alpine Status amplifiers for more power or system building: the HDA-F60 4-Channel Amplifier, HDA-V90 5-Cannel Amplifier, or HDA-M80 Mono Power Amplifier.

For the audiophile that’s looking to build their ideal sound system, Alpine Status offers a dynamic 3-Way Speaker Set (HDZ-653) with a High-Resolution bandwidth of 55Hz – 60kHz that includes a 6.5-inch Mid-Bass, 3-inch Mid-Range, and 2” Ring-Radiator Tweeter. A traditional, 2-Way Speaker Set (HDZ-65C) is also available and includes a 6.5-inch Mid-Bass and 2” Ring-Radiator Tweeter.

To ensure that each speaker achieves High-Resolution playback, each component is made from the same Carbon Composite material to create a unified timbre identity during playback. For added installation flexibility, the Alpine Status Speakers are also available in an OEM-fitment option for the tweeters in a 3-way (HDZ-653S), 2-Way (HDZ-65CS), or Coaxial (HDZ-65) Speaker Set option.

The massive, 11-inch HDZ-110 Alpine Status subwoofer houses a neodymium magnet to ensure efficient power delivery and reproduce an impressive 400W RMS/800W Peak Power Handling. A hybrid carbon cone with double-gathered surround minimizes distortion to reproduce clean, accurate bass even at loud volumes.

The Alpine Status system will ship in Summer 2022 and will be available at Alpine Authorized retailers and at Preferred Online Stores. Installation options can be found on the Alpine-USA website through the store locator. 

Visit www.alpine-usa.com for more.