A New Era for Entreprise Robert Thibert Inc. and Meyer Distributing, Inc

VANCOUVER, CANADA (05.17.24) – The CEO of Entreprise Robert Thibert Inc. (Thibert), Mr. Christian Thibert and the CEO of Meyer Distributing, Inc. (Meyer), Mr. Jeff Braun, are proud to announce that they have reached an agreement for the sale of Thibert’s automotive accessory, trailer and recreational vehicle divisions to Meyer.

“This strategic decision will mark a major turning point in our history,” said Christian Thibert, whose company has been in operation for more than 47 years.

“This agreement represents a key milestone for Thibert and will allow us to focus our efforts on developing and expanding our RTX wheels, RODAC tools, MAUI electric bikes, and MOSS INTERNATIONAL  outdoor furniture brands across North America,” said Mr. Thibert.

“The agreement with Thibert will allow us to consolidate our presence in Canada. It will allow us, among other things, to distribute the RTX wheel brand in North America,” said Jeff Braun.

Meyer Distributing, Inc. is a leader in the marketing and distribution of specialty automotive products and is a wholesale distributor with more than 100 locations in the United States and Canada with over 3,500,000 square feet of storage space for its extensive parts inventory.

Both Entreprise Robert Thibert Inc. and Meyer Distributing, Inc. remain committed to our customers, employees and partners, and look forward to this new phase of growth and development.

For more information, contact:
Martine Campeau
martinecampeau@rthibert.com
450 698-4000 ext. 4175

More Control Meets Customization with Crunch Mobile Accessories

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.17.24) – Transform your sound gains with complete control and deeper fine-tuning customization with accessories that deliver MORE TO YOUR PLAYBACK. Enhance any audio installation with Crunch mobile accessories offering more completely unique customizable experiences and making music sound more full, dynamic, and immersive. Feel ALL OF YOUR AUDIO come alive with fresh and new layers of details, richness, and depth.

The CREQ7B is a 7-Band parametric equalizer with a 9-volt line driver.
Bringing customization into your songs while turning all of your audio into higher-quality sound – the CREQ7B 7-Band equalizer features separate controls for Master, Subwoofer, and Front/Rear volume, a convenient selection of Main/or Aux inputs, -12dB to +12dB variable, three pairs of RCA outputs to drive Front, Rear, and Subwoofer, two audio inputs with level-matching, and a Subwoofer output that uses a built-in 18dB per octave electronic crossover fixed at 60Hz, 80Hz, or 120Hz.

With a Universal compatible vehicle fitment, a 1/2 DIN ISO mount comes included and can be installed right in the dash of your vehicle. Innovated in a clean black finish, this 7-Band Equalizer will blend into every Crunch car audio installation and vehicle interior giving your setup that perfect touch.

It’s your audio. Perfect it through the CREQ7B 7-Band equalizer and deliver more layers to any song and genre of audio craving The Power of Music.

Learn more HERE about the CREQ7B 7-Band equalizer.

The CRXR is a 2-way/3-way active crossover with an 8.5-volt line driver.
Fully adjust your audio system’s frequency and levels all in one centralized location with the CRXR 2-way/3-way crossover! The CRXR crossover creates three audio outputs when the audio source only has one or two. A built-in line driver allows an increase in voltage on low-output audio sources to reduce overall system noise (improving overall sound quality).

Included Remote Bass Control with the CRXR (shown above)
In addition – the CRXR also features a Rear Channel High-Pass Frequency of 32-400Hz and level adjustments, dedicated subwoofer output with phase adjustments mode and level adjustments, and Front and Rear inputs with Front, Rear, and Subwoofer outputs. LED Power indicators bring ease as the CRXR includes a bass remote for ultimate bass control.

Hear more details in every beat with the CRXR crossover and take on even more control with the included bass remote. Enhance more subwoofer depth!

Learn more HERE about the CRXR crossover.

The D Source Distributing Dealer Appreciation Open House Packed The House

BLOOMINGTON, MN (05.16.24) – The D Source Distributing Dealer Appreciation Open House on Tuesday, May 14th at the company’s HQ, packed the house. Nearly 2 dozen of the industry’s top brands filled the warehouse house to showcase their latest products and connect with dealers from across the territory. Vendor tables in the warehouse were covered with custom table cloths with the company’s logo. Under tents outside JL Audio had a SXS, there was a Jeep Wrangler and an eBike set for demos.

The Lucas Lighting booth with dealers checking out the products. Note the custom tablecloth.
Live outdoor exhibits due attention from attendees.

The buzz across the territory was super and dealers started to arrive when the doors opened. There were nearly 40 dealers in the house with well over 100 people in attendance with their staff members. Lunch was at 12 and all enjoyed the Jimmy Johns catered sandwiches.

“At 2 Erik Harbour conducted a training. Lucas Lighting conducted a training at 4 PM. At 5 o’clock there was dinner with a variety of delicious Italian favorites. All the raffles started at 7 PM. There were over $5000 cash and prizes available during the show raffles. Dealers all earned one ticket for every $500 they spent to enter into the raffle. It was definitely an exciting day as the doors closed at 9” Josh Burris, DNR Sales, related.

Erik Harbour conducting a PowerBass training session.
Vendor and staff members attending the event are listed.

“At PowerBass we always look forward to working with Jeff, Josh and the D Source Team. It was great getting to chat face to face with awesome area dealers. After a long hiatus it was good to connect again with a wonderful distributor show. We had a packed room for our training and dealers are looking forward to working with the new PBX-DSP-8” Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, who traveled from LA to attend the event, stated.

Tables were set in the warehouse between the well stocked aisles to meet with dealers.

Jeff Causton, D Source Principal, stated “Support from our vendor partners was definitely terrific. We had a solid lineup of products on display, factory staffs onsite, trainings, networking, dinner and such a great selection of raffle items plus the always popular CASH. At the end of the day our D Source team members are all so appreciative of the contributions our vendor partners, reps and dealers that made this 2024 Dealer Appreciation Open House a terrific event.”

Watch for more coverage from the D Source Open House with more from the Raffle prize winners.

Visit dsourcedistributing.com for more.

Tint World Continues to Grow Automotive Styling Service with 12th California Location

SAN RAFAEL, CA (05.16.24) Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™, the leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, announces the opening of a new location in San Rafael, California, the fast-growing franchise’s 12th store in the Golden State.

Tint World San Rafael, owned and operated by Jerry Liang, offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality automotive styling and performance services, including window tinting, paint protection films, ceramic coatings, and professional detailing.

“Drivers and automotive enthusiasts in California have proven their trust in the world-class services Tint World delivers,” Liang said. “Tint World is the one-stop shop for customers who recognize our convenience and value in addition to the high-quality products we offer from all the top brands. The passion of our customers and the unbeatable franchise systems and support that Tint World provides its franchisees are what separate us from the competition.”

Tint World San Rafael is located at 721 E. Francisco Boulevard, San Rafael, California 94901. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about services provided by Tint World San Rafael, call (415) 458-6480 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ca/san-rafael-166/.

“Janet has hit the ground running in San Rafael,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “She’s shown a commitment to the Tint World model and quickly connected with the automotive community in the Bay Area. We’re proud to welcome her to the Tint World family and look forward to seeing her continue to thrive and grow the brand.”

Visit www.TintWorld.com for more.

MINI USA Makes SiriusXM with 360L Standard Equipment

NEW YORK, NY (05.16.24) – MINI USA and SiriusXM announced that SiriusXM with 360L will be standard across the entire lineup of all-new MINI models sold in the United States. While SiriusXM first expanded across MINI’s full lineup in 2022, SiriusXM with 360L’s expanded content and personalization offering will now be available in all MINI vehicles, including the new MINI Countryman S ALL4, MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 and MINI Cooper S 2-door arriving at dealers this month. All other MINI models are expected to include SiriusXM with 360L in the coming months.

Amplified through MINI’s industry-first 9.4” round OLED Samsung screen and next-gen Android-enabled operating system, SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience, which provides drivers and their passengers with more content, improved discovery, and a more personalized listening experience.

SiriusXM with 360L in MINI adds more than 100 additional music channels curated to match every mood, an expansive library of on demand content and a live sports category that makes it easier to find broadcasts of games and sporting events. Additionally, personalized “For You” and spotlight recommendations, as well as the ability to access related content, allow listeners to discover more of the programming they love. Drivers can also create and enjoy custom Artist Stations that can be originated from artists or bands and are continually personalized.

“MINI is the quintessential premium small car, offering the latest technologies and innovations in our new MINI family of vehicles arriving at showrooms now,” said Patrick McKenna, Department Head, Marketing, Product and Strategy at MINI USA. “That is why we’re pleased to offer the best in-car entertainment available with SiriusXM 360L as standard equipment across our entire model line.”

“MINI offers an incredibly entertaining and “fun-to-drive” experience for both driver and passengers and we are very excited to enhance that experience, delivering our most advanced and driver-centric audio entertainment platform across their entire model lineup on their impressive, all-new OLED display,” said Gail Berger, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Automotive Partnerships, SiriusXM. “MINI drivers can now enjoy even more of the SiriusXM content they love and a more personalized listening offering.”

MINI customers purchasing or leasing a SiriusXM-equipped vehicle in the United States receive a 12-month trial subscription to SiriusXM that delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of varied content, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicle on the SiriusXM app and on connected devices and speakers in the home. The new SiriusXM app includes access to exclusive video content and podcasts and provides a seamless listening experience across streaming devices that reflects listener preferences and interests, ensuring subscribers never miss a moment wherever they are and whenever they want to listen.

SiriusXM is home to hundreds of expertly curated, ad-free music channels across all genres, decades, and moods as well as the must-hear moments in sports, news, entertainment, comedy, and more. From one-of-a-kind channels by some of the world’s top musicians to first-listens and exclusive performances from emerging artists and bands, SiriusXM presents the perfect soundtrack for any moment. SiriusXM brings fans closer to their favorite sport by offering the most extensive lineup of live pro and college events, plus programming that delivers reactions and analysis from experts and insiders. Subscribers also stay informed and entertained with the latest in news and politics, entertainment, comedy, and beyond with celebrity interviews, iconic hosts, trusted opinions, non-stop laughs, and so much more, available only on SiriusXM.

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit www.SiriusXM.com.

The SSR Dallas Dealer Show Motorcycle Training Event Hosted by Jimmy Bradfield/Momentum Marketing

DALLAS, TX (05.15.24) – “Here at SSR in Dallas, we take a lot of pride in the products we offer that are designed and built specifically for the Motorcycle customer. We continue to see huge growth in this category of our business. Despite this growth, we have quite a few 12 Volt retailers that have not embraced the motorcycle category and customer. After a lengthy conversation with Jimmy Bradfield, our Momentum Marketing sales rep, we put a plan together for him to do a training focusing on the Introduction to Motorcycle Business at our recent show” stated Tracy Farr, V.P of Sales and Operations for SSR Distributors, Dallas.

Screenshot
Jimmy Bradfield makes a point during the motorcycle training presentation.

“Since the training was an ‘Intro to the Motorcycle category’, I wanted to keep it simple with 6 key training points” stated Bradfield.

  1. Understanding the opportunity within the Motorcycle category.
  2. Getting to know the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle platforms.
  3. Knowing which product to sell and install, to meet the customer’s needs.
  4. What special tools are needed to work on these motorcycles.
  5. How to start marketing your business to the motorcycle owner.
  6. SSR Distributor’s product list that will help capture the motorcycle customer.
Paul Galanos, Director of Marketing, during an interview in his office.

Paul Galanos, Director of Marketing for SSR Distributors, said “I knew the Motorcycle products were important to us at SSR, but after sitting through Jimmy’s training, I walked away with a much better understanding of the machines and what’s needed to work on them.. as well as what’s needed to reach that motorcycle customer. Throughout his training, Jimmy kept pressing us on how big the opportunity is within the motorcycle category, and he showed us the data to completely back it up. Jimmy tried his best to offer a training that was not biased towards one brand or another and he really helped me realize that we have the right mix of products to help our dealers capitalize on this business.”

A group of dealers in one section of the meeting room during Bradfield’s training session.

Jay Ford, with Kustom Wings in Carrollton TX, offered “I’ve built my business catering specifically to the motorcycle owner, so I’m very familiar with the bikes. When Jimmy talked about the opportunity, it really opened my eyes to what the future holds in the motorcycle business. I’m even more excited and confident about our future, at Kustom Wings!”

Tracy Farr holding a SSR University Graduation Certificate. The Motorcycle Training session was an extension of SSR‘s commitment to help 12volt retailers drive business across their marketplace. There is a monthly SSR University session in the Houston and Dallas locations one evening each month.

“Our annual dealer events, in Houston and Dallas, continue to get bigger every year. It’s a great opportunity for us to bring both sides of our family together. Our family of Dealers get invaluable time with our family of Vendors and Sales Reps. It’s a great opportunity to learn about new products and how the products can help them be more successful. We are so thankful for the support of our Dealers, Vendors and Sales Reps” Farr concluded.

Visit ssrdistributors.com for more.

Tint World Opens First Oklahoma Location in Tulsa

TULSA, OK (05.15.24) — Tint World Automotive Styling Centers introduces its premium automotive styling and accessories services to Oklahoma with the opening of its first location in the state.

Owned and operated by Charles White, Tint World Tulsa offers drivers comprehensive automotive services and products, including window tint, paint protection film, ceramic coatings, audio and video, professional detailing and safety and security services.

10322 E 71st St, Tulsa, OK 74133

“We’re proud to offer Tint World’s industry-leading solutions to Oklahoma,” White said. “The company’s proven, innovative franchise systems are empowering us to deliver high quality and value to customers, and we’re already seeing an overwhelming response from drivers throughout the area.”

Tint World owner Charles White (R) points out window tint specs to a customer.

Tint World Tulsa, located at 10322 E. 71st St., Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133, serves Tulsa and the Broken Arrow, Jenks, Owasso, Bixby, Sand Springs, Sapulpa and Claremore areas. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Tulsa, call (918) 221-6788 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/ok/tulsa-146/.

John Lamb (R)-Tint World technician- points out features, advantages and benefits of a head unit to a customer.

“With his passion for the automotive industry and commitment to our franchise systems, Charles has shown he’s an outstanding ambassador for the Tint World brand,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The Tulsa location is an essential part of the fast-growing Tint World family as we continue to enhance our position as the leading one-stop service provider for vehicle owners and auto enthusiasts.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

Colossus PRO Amplifiers Combine PRO Loud and PRO Sound

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (05.15.24) – REINVENTED POWER that takes your listening to higher levels of sound. This is Colossus PRO. Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifiers bring PRO LOUD and PRO SOUND into your Hifonics car audio system with deeper levels of detail that raise the bar in POWERFUL PERFORMANCE. Get ready to take your sound to new expectations of LOUD with PRO POWER!

The entire line of Colossus PRO models features monoblock and 4-channel amplifiers. Ranging from the HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO amplifier that makes 5000 watts of incredibly LOUD audio to the HAC-1500.1D Colossus PRO amplifier making 1500 watts of undistorted clean sound in mighty size -every Colossus PRO amplifier will instantly deliver the power that your Hifonics audio system needs to reach a LOUDER soundstage.

Multi-layered printed circuit boards (PCB) with surface mount components require fewer parts and result in a cleaner design while clean stylized badging features the Hifonics logo illuminated with blue LEDs and the Colossus logo badge is fly cut CNC machined aluminum giving off a sleek and bold finish.

HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO monoblock amplifier Input and Output end panels (shown above)
With an Ultra-High efficient design power supply making every Colossus PRO amplifier the most efficient amplifier in Hifonics history – POWER FROM THE GODS transcends previous Hifonics amplifier lines with innovated full range, Class-D technology performance. Hear minimal interface with other vehicle electronic systems with Ultra-Low EMI design and accept a wider range of input signals with high-end preamplifier circuits.

Inside the world of Hifonics Colossus PRO (shown above)
Superior performance meets PRO levels of playback while staying protected under nearly every circumstance with triple protection circuits and a PRO thermal management system. Additionally, a delayed turn-on function ensures compatibility with a wide range of source units to eliminate any unwanted turn-on/off noises. Adjust the bass level relative to the setting on the amplifier end panel with an included bass remote.

HAC-5000.1D Colossus PRO monoblock amplifier Bass Remote (shown above)
Offering incredible POWER FROM THE GODS and loudness throughout any listening session – Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifiers signify ULTIMATE POWER and PLAYBACK by bringing out LOUDER LEVELS of detail and incredible sound within audio.

Hear what audio can sound like when given the PRO POWER of Colossus!

Learn complete Hifonics Colossus PRO amplifier line details HERE from the Hifonics website.

General Motors Names Alps Alpine North America, Inc. a 2023 Supplier of the Year

AUBURN HILLS, MI (05.14.24) – General Motors recognized Alps Alpine North America, Inc. as a 2023 Supplier of the Year. GM celebrated honorees at its 32nd annual Supplier of the Year event in Aventura, Florida earlier in April.

GM’s Supplier of the Year award recognizes global suppliers that distinguish themselves by exceeding GM’s requirements, in turn providing customers with innovative technologies and among the highest quality in the automotive industry. This is the 12th consecutive (22nd overall) time Alps Alpine has received the award.

Pictured (Left to Right): Cameron Hosner, Mark Walters (Director – Electrical Systems, Autonomous Driving, and Active Safety), Kristin Toth (Executive Director – Electrical Systems, Software, and Connectivity), Mike Kenhard.

“We are most honored to receive this prestigious recognition from General Motors,” said Cameron Hosner, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Alps Alpine North America. “This award is a testament to the hard work by all our teams to design, build, and deliver solutions with excellence.”

“We’re honored to partner with these top suppliers who have made notable contributions to our transformation. Together, we’re pushing boundaries, pioneering new technologies and redefining what’s possible,” said Jeff Morrison, Vice President, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “Their innovation and support are critical to helping us deliver the world-class vehicles our customers have to come expect.”

Each year, GM’s Supplier of the Year recipients are selected by a global, cross-functional GM team for their performance, innovation, cultural alignment with GM’s values, and commitment to achieving GM’s ambitious goals.

Visit alpsalpine.com for more.

The 2024 Rock The House 9-City Tour Kicked Off in Grand Rapids, MI

GRAND RAPIDS & DETROIT, MI (05.14.24) – The Progressive Group powers the annual Rock The House Tour and the 2024 Tour got off to a fast start the week of May 6th with events in Grand Rapids on Tuesday May 7th and Detroit on Thursday May 9th. At both events there were strong specials, networking with staff, entertainment and delicious BBQ from the grille.

Nick Klaassen with a big thumbs up along with Dave Goodwin from Sound Waves in Macomb MI.

Jason Dubie, Director of Business-Midwest, related “We had good turnouts at both events even with some rain. At each event dealers from a couple hours away hit the road to attend. In Detroit dealers started to arrive early and we had key vendors in the house including Kenwood, Rockford Fosgate, VOXX, Directed, Dynamat, SiriusXM plus Stinger and AudioControl. Nearly 50 dealers in Detroit met with staff and took advantage of super deals, refreshments, DJ Vernel-Platinum Edge Music and Joe Pichey from Boompa’s BBQ slicing up delicious BBQ until we closed about 9PM.”

The 2024 Rock The House Tour continues this week with events in Denver and Salt Lake City on Tuesday May 14th and Kansas City on Thursday May 16th.

Shopping carts filled with orders as dealers check out the door in Detroit after picking up some great deals.
DJ Vernel, Platinum Edge  Music, rocked the house in Detroit.
Joe Pichey from Boompa’s BBQ served up delicious sliced brisket from the grill.

Additional event stops on the 2024 Tour include Ft Lauderdale, Atlanta, Phoenix and Tampa.

For more see teamprogressive.com