BATTLE GROUND, WA (June 20, 2024) – In a strategic move to boost customer service in the Pacific Northwest, The Crossover Marketing Group proudly announces the addition of Maria Alejandra to its growing team.
Maria’s creativity, enthusiasm for helping others, and bilingual proficiency (English and Spanish) make her a valuable new asset to the team. As a past sales agent with a diverse background as a chef, bartender, and administrator, Maria is uniquely qualified and has adept skills to handle various situations and the experience in understanding and supporting people’s needs… Now, she is ready to embark on the next chapter of her career with Crossover.
Outside of the office, Maria is a creative soul, she enjoys crafting, designing bags and earrings, and painting. She is also furthering her education by studying architecture and the Japanese language.
“Her dedication and passion are evident in every task we’ve given her over the past several weeks of training” said Rob Sutton, expressing his admiration for Maria’s remarkable energy and commitment. “I wanted someone who shared in my desire to really connect with people, and feel like we hit a home run here”
As the new Client Success Manager, Maria will oversee order entry, warranty claims, and overall customer service. This strategic hire also enables Crossover to transition Sam Sutton outside the office into a new Relationship Manager role, where he will directly serve accounts alongside Rob and Paul. Maria’s appointment underscores Crossover’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering strong relationships in the territory.
“We couldn’t be happier with Maria. She brings an energy and enthusiasm to every task, is very detailed oriented, and extremely personable, all the traits and skills that we strive for in the DNA make-up of the entire Crossover Marketing Group“ said Paul Pilat when asked about how she will fit with the team.
WASHOUGAL, WA (06.19.24) – The Falcon Sales and AM Merchandising Dealer Show definitely provided an opportunity for vendors and reps to connect with dealers through out the area Thursday and Friday June 13th and 14th.
Prior to the event Scott Chapin said “The Show gonna be a party and we would love to have area dealers come and join us to take advantage of incredible deals, food & beverages and FUN!! Turns out he was spot on!
A portion of the demo vehicles that were on site.
Demo vehicles were onsite and several dealers brought their cars to show off while at the show. The warehouse was packed with great deals and tables in the aisles with specials. The free goodies and some giveaways plus Friday evening raffles added to the excitement. Importantly all of this while dealers checked out new products and networked with fellow industry members.
The racks in the warehouse were stacked to the ceiling as dealers checked out specials.
Scott Chapin, Mike Hall, Kam Frisbee and Dave Gates were on site from Falcon Sales & Marketing. Tom Miller and Randy Harcourt travelled up from Oakland CA to showcase all from AM Merchandising.
Kam Frisbee, who recently joined Falcon stated “It was such a super event. I had talked to many of the shops over the past couple of years working with Metra. It was terrific to meet them in person. Many said this was their first time to come to the Falcon HQ and they were very impressed plus too advantage of the great deals and fun atmosphere.”
Thursday morning early the UTV Stereo set up taking place with the Polaris Pro R 4 ready to shake the ground.
Brands in the house included Morel, Jensen, PowerBass, Wet Sounds, UTV Stereo, Sound Skins, KICKER, Massive Audio and Sony. Factory vehicles on site included KICKER, Alpine and UTV Stereo.nDealer cars added to the vehicles on the grounds.
Massive Audio’s John Velez related “JR Mares and I had a great show. We showed new products new plus offered dealers a chance to win a new GTR8 sub. By coming to the show dealers experienced our broad line in person. Edgar Gonzales from Unique Audio, the NW Territory Massive Audio dealer of the Year 2023, was in the house and it was super to meet him and thank him for the strong support.”
Thursday morning early the UTV Stereo set up taking place with the Polaris Pro R 4 ready to shake the ground.
Sound Skins showed sound deadening for bikes.
Jeff Falk traveled from Florida the show the PowerBass line to dealers under a large tent. With the Powersports category being strong Falk related the SoundBars were a hot with dealers.
Jeff Petersen, with UTV Stereo, stated “The PowerSports category is hot and we have the widest selection of products. We cranked it up the volume on Dave Gates’ Polaris Pro R 4, loaded with UTV Stereo gear shook the ground.”
Doug Kern unveiled new Jensen products.
Industry veteran Doug Kern, who recently joined Dual and Jensen for the Western US, was in the house. “NW dealers loved the new Jensen line up of Wireless CarPlay/AndroidAuto. The opening price points are great along with the feature set and 3 year warranty. Also new to dealers was the new Dash/Window Mount wireless CP/AA that is perfect when s customer doesn’t was to change their dashboard.”
Rob Sutton with Crossover Marketing made the trip from Oregon was thrilled to see the enthusiasm of dealers in the house. Crossover Marketing recently was appointed the rep firm for KICKER and the Dealer Show was the perfect opportunity to show the KICKER lineup to many dealers.
Raffle winners with their prizes. Israel Tellez (L) from The Best Auto Glass and Tint in Burien WA. Tim from Tim’s Audio and Tint-Newport OR with his Pioneer and PowerBass prizes.
Chapin concluded “The are definitely looking forward to next year as is AM Merchandising. Many dealers took advantage of the local motel offer and several closed their shops and attended the show both days. We definitely appreciate all the support from our vendors and reps for working with us to put together this super Dealer Show.”
HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL (06.19.24) – A VIPAR Heavy Duty stockholder since 2010 and one of its first Mexico-based distributors, DIREGO added its three Colombian locations to the group’s network, expanding its footprint into South America.
Two of the Colombian locations are in Bogotá and one is in Cali. DIREGO is headquartered in Saltillo, the capital of Coahuila, Mexico, and operates four distribution centers and 24 stores in that country, as well as one in Houston.
“We are very pleased to continue growing our partnership with VIPAR Heavy Duty. Bringing our Colombian locations into the network strengthens our ability to serve customers in that region and positions us for further growth,” said Alejandro “Alex” Garcia Pérez, DIREGO’s commercial director. “Our reputation is built on exceptional service and providing truck and trailer parts of the highest quality from the industry’s most trusted brands. We are eager, in conjunction with VIPAR Heavy Duty, to strengthen that reputation among our Colombian customers and communities.”
Garcia, who joined DIREGO’s management team in 2013, serves on the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors. During his time with DIREGO, the distributorship has experienced significant growth. They also became a subsidiary of ZOR Capital Group, which is focused on Latin American transportation, manufacturing and distribution for automobiles and commercial vehicles.
“DIREGO and Alex have been essential to VIPAR Heavy Duty’s success and growth in Latin America where we have more than 100 locations and 15 years of experience,” said VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO Chris Baer. “Alex’s aftermarket expertise and market knowledge are great assets as we execute our strategy to further strengthen our presence throughout Latin America. We are proud to have the strongest and most progressive network of independent aftermarket distributors throughout the Americas – now serving end-user customer needs on two continents.
“It’s a great time to be in the heavy duty truck parts business!”
DIREGO was founded in 1994 and has steadily expanded its footprint through the years. They provide parts for all makes and models of trucks, trailers and buses.
“DIREGO is a top VIPAR Heavy Duty distributor, excelling in all areas,” said Jim Pennig, VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ vice president of business development. “They are an outstanding ambassador of VIPAR Heavy Duty’s brand and principles, and we welcome their Colombian locations to our growing Latin American network.”
For more information on DIREGO, visit dirego.com.mx. For more information on VIPAR Heavy Duty, visit www.vipar.com or email: info@vipar.com.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.19.24) – Take on the thrill of the open waters and abundant sunshine by upgrading your Marine speaker game to the NH2 LEVEL! Creating a soundscape for every on-the-water listening experience, MB Quart Nautic compression horn speakers and Nautic compression horn tower speakers bring out the best in Nautic performance. Get ready to embrace more of summer adventures!
Four models are included in this Nautic speaker line – NH2-120, NH2-116, NHT2-120, and NHT2-116, as each speaker set projects audio that is loud so it can be heard from miles away. But just being loud on the open waters is not enough – every speaker model creates audio that is clean, sharp, and detailed, with sound displayed in crisp playback.
Showcasing audio and design in a customizable appearance, each set of Nautic compression horn/horn tower speakers will include interchangeable grills (Black, Silver, and White) allowing you to match your boat or audio system installation as desired. Hear sound that is customizable to every install!
HEAR CLEANER DETAIL THROUGH NH2
Both the NH2-120 and NH2-116 make clean clarity in every beat upscaling your sound to the maximum performance in audio delivery. In addition – both compression horn models have been LIFE SHIELD tested to the highest Marine and Motorsports standards that include protection against sun fade, fresh/salt water spray, dust, and even sand.
Creating steady mids, higher-in-detail trebles, and overall a richer layer of Marine speaker playback – both NH2-120 and NH2-116 compression horns have been innovated with UHS (Ultra-High Sensitivity) Technology and wavelength transparent acoustic lenses with a polypropylene cone – so sound is heard in top-notch detail. Take on MORE SOUND in MORE DETAIL.
Learn more details HERE on both the NH2-120 and NH2-116 Nautic compression horn speakers.
TAKE ON LOUDER SOUND WITH NHT2
Creating LOUDER VOLUME while maintaining incredible detail – both the NHT2-120 and NHT2-116 come designed in a reinforced compact enclosure. With mounting hardware included and packaged in pairs, natural Butyl rubber surround remains responsive in all weather conditions. A heavy-duty injection-molded ABS cast enclosure provides strength and improved bass response in any genre of music.
A woven fiber composite spider helps stabilize the cone and voice coil in all musical situations creating a clear sound that projects an immersive layer into every song. Front and rear venting allow air passage through the spider and back plate to exchange air over the voice coil.
Learn more details HERE on both the NHT2-120 and NHT2-116 Nautic compression horn tower speakers.
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (06.18.24) – Zapco and ESB Audio showcased their latest product lineups in the company’s booth along with a Jaguar demo vehicle that drew rave reviews from attendees.
Chris Bennett, who recently joined the Apex Group Italy, manages all US Sales and activities. “This was an opportunity to bring all members of the Apex Group Italy and the US staffs together and proved to be very successful. Enzo Biasella travelled from Italy to join George Jenkins, Ernie Hundal and myself as we presented the Zapco and ESB Audio products and marketing plans. Jack Mazur, and his AllBoro Custom team from New York City, delivered the show stopping Jaguar demo loaded with an extreme custom installation of Zapco and ESB Audio gear.”
Chris Bennett meeting with dealers on Day-1 in Atlantic City.
“KnowledgeFest Atlantic City was perfect for us to debut ESB Speakers, which are relatively new to the US Market. Many dealers who had not heard of ESB Speakers before were excited by the wide range of speakers and the value of ESB Audio for their stores” Bennett concluded.
AllBoro Custom is a well known 12volt retailer that specializes in custom installations. The Jaguar is Mazur’s personal vehicle. “Actually we worked on the Jaguar project for nearly 2 months. I personally worked on the project. Initially the project was getting all the gear in house and then setting up the custom design work. We started with a little bit of work on the project every day. I lost track of the hours sometime back at about 300 hours. As the show date appoached we went full time and finished up the buld the day before we rolled out to Atlantic City. When the Apex team experienced the sound and installation they very happy. When attendees saw and listened to the Jag they very very impressed and all gave big thumbs up. That was what made me very happy and proud” Mazur stated.
The AllBoro Custom Jaguar drew raves from all who expected a demo.
The Team gathered for an image as the event wrapped. Ernie Hundal-Zapco, Jack Mazur-AllBoro, Enzo Biasella-Apex Group, Sara Oliveras and Leo Rosario-AllBoro, George Jenkins and Chris Bennett-Apex Group (LtoR).
George Jenkins, VP US Sales, related “We were thrilled to have Chris join the Apex Group Italy recently. He did super work organizing everything for our successful launch in Atlantic City. The stage is set to drive Apex Group Italy’s objectives and goals forward.”
ERIE, PA (6.18.24) – The area in front of the Custom Audio location in the West Ridge Plaza was filled with over 100 cars on Sunday June 16th, Father’s Day, to benefit The Anna Shelter mission.
“Cars started showing up early for a place on the plaza and we soon had our max of 100 car, trucks and vans for the event to further the Anna Shelter mission” Sondralee Orengia offered.
The Anna Shelter animal welfare organization in Erie PA was established in June of 2004. The organization helps dogs, cats, small animals… even horses, one animal at a time. During the Sunday event there were gift baskets, raffles and 50/50 opportunities on site along with the RouechaQue food truck which shared a percentage of sales with the Anna Shelter..
The Father’s Day crowd checking out a wide variety of show cars.
Exotic cars also drew attention.
Continuing “The event on Father’s Day was so special. The weather was terrific and so many families came to see the wide selection of amazing vehicles at the event and spend the afternoon together.”
On Sunday Custom Audio’s showroom was open and staff members engaged with enthusiasts about the wide variety of 12volt and automotive aftermarket 12volt products available at Custom Audio. Sondralee and Nick were slammed inside as AJ and Paula were outsideand helping Anna Shelter and others direct traffic.
Attendees stopped by to learn more about the Anna Shelter mission and make donations.
The RouechaQue BBQ rig was set up early to serve delicious lunches for attendees.
“Last year we were very busy following the event every day during the week following the Car Show and expect to be this year also. Putting the Custom Audio brand in front of consumers and enthusiasts continues to drive business. We certainly look forward to next year’s Anna Shelter event” Orengia concluded.
AVON LAKE, OH (06.18.24) – Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), a worldwide leader in heat and sound control products, is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking product, ATAC™: Advanced Thermal Acoustic Control Coating.
ATAC (#50208) is a revolutionary water-based coating that sets a new interior heat and noise management standard. It was developed using micro-sphere ceramic technology that utilizes tiny beads to dampen noise and vibrations while reflecting heat up to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius).
Unlike traditional coatings that focus solely on either heat or sound control, ATAC combines both functionalities in one innovative solution thus saving time and money. This cutting-edge product can be sprayed on, rolled, or brushed onto interiors, providing unparalleled performance in heat and sound management.
“We are excited to introduce ATAC to our customers,” said Mike Buca, Brand Manager of Design Engineering Inc. “With ATAC, we are offering a unique solution in one product that addresses the dual challenges of heat and sound control. Whether you’re restoring a classic car, refurbishing a boat, upgrading an RV, enhancing a truck, or tackling industrial applications, ATAC delivers exceptional results.”
ATAC is now available for shipping and comes in a convenient 1-gallon size, making it ideal for various projects and applications. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a must-have product for automotive enthusiasts, marine enthusiasts and industrial professionals alike.
Key features and benefits of ATAC include:
Advanced thermal and acoustic control in one solution saves time and money.
Reflects radiant heat up to 375 F (177 C) while reducing vibration and noise for a quieter more enjoyable ride.
Easy application through spraying, rolling, or brushing.
Available in a 1-gallon resealable bucket that covers up to 75 square feet.
Provides superior performance compared to traditional coatings.
Water-based coating that cleans up easily and is environmentally safe.
Suitable for automotive restoration, marine vessels, RVs, trucks and industrial applications.
An optional DEI Spray Gun is also available (#50209)
WACO, TX (06.17.24) – The SSR-U 1.3 North session, entitled Acoustics & Tuning, took place at the Dallas office on Wednesday, June 12th. On Friday June 14th, Martin Garcia-Lucky 7 Cycles Waco, was utilizing techniques learned at the SSR-U session 2 days earlier!!
As usual VP of Sales & Operations, Tracy Farr, and his stellar sales staff hosted the event as SSR Director of Marketing & Dealer Outreach Paul Galanos presented the compelling seminar in grand fashion.
Paul Galanos conducting the June 12th SSR-U session in Dallas.
Martin Garcia pictured with his daily rider outside his Lucky 7 Cycles location in Waco.
Lucky 7 Cycles is the go-to headquarters for all things Bikes in a large area around Waco. In a sincere thank you email to Tracy Farr Garcia wrote… ”I can’t thank you and all at SSR Distributors enough for the Acoustics & Tuning course. This was an awesome class that Paul presented. It was very detailed and informative… spot on! After I left and went back to Waco I had a better sense of knowledge and felt rejuvenated on the ability to do top sounding installs. The training I got from you guys will be passed onto my employees to better themselves as we will have even more satisfied customers. I will definitely attend the next SSR-U training!
Garcia snapped this image of a tuning session in process in the Waco bay.
Plenty of bikes in the install bay for upgrades.
Garcia opened Centex Cycle Shop & Customs on January 1st 2012. In November 2021 Garcia merged with the Lucky 7 Custom Cycles group. Currently there are 2 part time mechanics on staff that do a lot of the service, tires and accessories on bikes. Garcia does the custom and installs that pertain to audio. Lessons learned at SSR-U Dallas will be shared with staff.
Lucky 7 Cycles setting up for another event to engage bikers to drive sales.
From simple acoustic theory to an introductory exploration into the world of digital sound processing all was covered in Dallas. Galanos explained how to plan and execute a stellar install based on simple acoustic fundamentals and attacking any lingering deficiencies with active sound processing.
“Attendees interacted with one another to share knowledge and experience and worked together to develop an understanding of new concepts meant to help propel them into the next generation of install, tuning, and staying up to date on new tech in the Dallas session” Galanos related.
SSR University will return in one month’s time to the DFW area for installment SSR-U 1.4 entitled ‘Sound Processing 101’. In the meantime the next SSR-U Houston presentation is being prepared with details to be releases soon.
LITTLETON, CO (06.17.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues to build its footprint in Colorado with its fourth location in the state.
Owned and operated by George Boudouris, Tint World Littleton offers comprehensive automotive styling, performance and safety services, including window tint, paint protection film, ceramic coatings, and professional detailing, to drivers in the southern Denver metropolitan area.
The inviting showroom highlighted with signature Tint World colors.
Informative wall displays guide customers through products.
From day one, the Install bay has been busy.
Classics are coming in for window tint work and paint protection.
“We’re proud to expand the Tint World brand in Colorado and to introduce the leading automotive service and products to the Littleton area,” Boudouris said. “Tint World has a proven record of success. Their reputation for quality and value enhances the powerful franchise systems and support that drive the company’s fast growth in a highly competitive industry.”
It was spa day for this Porsche.
Bikes too at Tint World!
Tint World Littleton is located at 151 West Country Line Road, Littleton, CO 80129. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Littleton, call (303) 300-8747 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/co/littleton-101/.
“George is a welcome addition to the Tint World family,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “He has the commitment and passion we look for, and we know Tint World Littleton will have a positive impact on its customers while helping us continue to elevate our brand globally.”
DIAMOND BAR, CA (06.17.24) – SEMA — the Specialty Equipment Market Association — is deeply disappointed that California’s Senate Bill (SB) 301, legislation aimed at incentivizing the conversion of gas and diesel-powered cars into Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs), was vetoed by California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Authored by California Senator Anthony Portantino, SB 301 sought to establish the groundbreaking Zero-Emission Aftermarket Conversion Project (ZACP) under the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Despite being lauded as a “Job Creator” by the California Chamber of Commerce and receiving unanimous support from lawmakers, the bill faced a veto at the Governor’s desk. This program would have provided rebates of up to $4,000 to California residents undertaking the conversion of eligible used vehicles, with stringent guidelines ensuring compliance with safety, range, and affordability criteria.
This missed opportunity is glaring, especially as California boasts several programs promoting new ZEV purchases but lacks support for ZEV conversions of existing gas-powered vehicles. This setback hinders the rollout of a program that bolsters cleaner air, reduces carbon emissions, and fuels job growth and economic prosperity statewide.
California’s reputation as an innovation hub rings hollow with this veto. SB301 was poised to be a catalyst for progress. With over 149,000 jobs and a significant $40 billion economic impact, the specialty automotive aftermarket stands as a vital contributor to California’s economy. This bill represented a chance to supercharge the industry, aligning seamlessly with the Governor’s stated priority of advancing cleaner vehicles.
“SEMA is profoundly disappointed by Governor Newsom’s lack of foresight in vetoing SB 301,” said Mike Spagnola, SEMA’s president and CEO. “This legislation would have advanced environmental sustainability and leveled the playing field for aftermarket conversions while fostering innovation, supporting small businesses, and providing consumers with affordable and sustainable transportation options.”
SEMA remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for policies that promote innovation and sustainability within the automotive industry. While SB 301 may not have secured the Governor’s signature this time, SEMA will continue collaborating with lawmakers, stakeholders, and the community to advance initiatives that drive innovation.
For inquiries or further information, please contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
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