KENWOOD Recognizes Top Performers at Rep Awards

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Kelly McDaniel addressing the audience during the Kenwood East Coast awards presentation. 

Las Vegas, NV, Feb. 2nd, 2024 KENWOOD USA (kenwood.com/usa/car), a leading manufacturer of premier entertainment and information solutions for the automotive, marine, and motorsports aftermarket, celebrated excellence in sales representation at its annual Sales Rep and Rep Firm of the Year Awards held at the prestigious Paris Convention Center in Las Vegas on February 1st, 2024. The event honored exceptional individuals and firms for their dedication, professionalism, and outstanding contributions to KENWOOD’s success in their respective regions.

Rep of The Year – West Region: Ryan Rough

Ryan Rough, a seasoned 12 Volt electronics representative in Southern California for over 20 years, has been named the Rep of The Year in the West Region. Ryan’s enduring commitment to excellence has significantly contributed to KENWOOD’s success in the region. Ryan Christie, West Region Sales Manager, expressed, “Ryan Rough’s dedication and expertise have set a high standard in the West Region. His ability to cover a large territory with finesse and professionalism is truly commendable. Ryan embodies the values of KENWOOD, and we are proud to have him as part of our team.”

Rep Firm of The Year – West Region: Oliver Marketing, Northern California

Oliver Marketing, Northern California, has been recognized as the Rep Firm of The Year in the West Region. This team’s exceptional organization and professionalism, coupled with their informed communications with KENWOOD and its dealers, have played a crucial role in representing the brand at the highest level. Ryan Christie, West Region Sales Manager, added, “The team at Oliver Marketing, Northern California, is the epitome of organization and professionalism. Their dedication to representing KENWOOD at the highest level makes my job easier, and we are grateful for their outstanding contributions.”

Rep of The Year – Midwest Region: Jimmy Bradfield

Jimmy Bradfield’s exceptional efforts in servicing current dealers, setting up new dealer relationships, and actively participating in weekend events for KENWOOD have earned him the title of Rep of The Year in the Midwest Region. Tim Hill, Midwest Region Sales Manager, remarked, “Jimmy Bradfield’s commitment and dedication to our dealers in the Midwest Region have been exemplary. His willingness to go above and beyond reflects the values of KENWOOD, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Rep Firm of The Year – Midwest Region: Comprehensive Brands – CBI

Comprehensive Brands – CBI, has been named the Rep Firm of The Year in the Midwest Region. Their outstanding work with customers, securing consistent monthly business, promoting monthly specials, and maintaining daily communication with dealers, has significantly contributed to KENWOOD’s success. Tim Hill, Midwest Region Sales Manager, added, “The Comprehensive Brands – CBI team has done an excellent job this year, and we are truly glad to have them on the KENWOOD team. Their dedication and efforts have been instrumental in our success.”

Rep of The Year – East Region: Patrick Eiland, The Progressive Group

Patrick Eiland of The Progressive Group has been honored as the Rep of The Year in the East Region, recognizing his outstanding contributions and dedication to KENWOOD’s success. Kelly McDaniel, East Region Senior Sales Manager, acknowledged, “Patrick Eiland’s contributions in the East Region have been exceptional. His commitment to excellence and hard work have made a significant impact, and we are proud to have him representing KENWOOD.”

Rep Firm of The Year – East Region: CF Marketing

CF Marketing has been named the Rep Firm of The Year in the East Region, acknowledging their professionalism, organization, and commitment to representing KENWOOD at the highest level. Kelly McDaniel, East Region Senior Sales Manager, commented, “The team at CF Marketing has demonstrated outstanding professionalism and commitment to the KENWOOD brand. We appreciate their efforts in making our job easier and representing us with excellence.”

These awards highlight KENWOOD‘s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence in sales representation. These examples of dedication contribute significantly to KENWOOD’s continued success.

The Kenwood training in process on Thursday at KnowledgeFest 2024 in Vegas.


To learn more about KENWOOD, visit the company’s website at https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/

DOW Technologies Continues 12Volt Growth

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TAMPA, FL (02.02.24) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned technology distributor, announced the expansion of agreements with KICKER and Voxx Electronics. In addition, DOW is now carrying products from Tury, a manufacturer of throttle controllers.

DOW has signed an agreement to expand their distribution of KICKER to include the TOLA (Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas) territory. This is DOW’s second agreement extension with KICKER within the past 4 months. KICKER inventory is now available in DOW’s Dallas warehouse for quick shipping and convenient pickup available to authorized dealers. DOW currently distributes KICKER in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. Dealers are able to shop KICKER’s products on DOW’s website 24 hours a day.

Members of the DOW Team,  Funmi, Ken and Hailey (L to R) are all the smiles holding KICKER products in the DALLAS warehouse.

Voxx Electronics and DOW have an agreement to extend distribution of Voxx’s line of ADAS products, including those from brands Flashlogic, Prestige, and Rosen. In addition, DOW will offer the Movies2Go line of products within a larger territory. Voxx’s products are available on DOW’s website with inventory to be stocked in Atlanta, Dallas and Tampa.

DOW is entering a new product category within the 12Volt market with the introduction of Tury’s line of Fast products. Tury’s throttle controller products give users complete control of the throttle response in their car. Tury’s Fast products offer the unique ability to immobilize the throttle as an added security feature. The products will be available to authorized dealers across DOW’s territory with the exception of the Mid-Atlantic territory.

“We are very excited to expand our partnerships with KICKER and Voxx, continuing our long-term growth strategy,” stated Michael Hurwitz, strategic sales manager, 12Volt. “Our team is knowledgeable about these products and are ready to assist dealers in the expanded territories.”

“Our goal is to be a one-stop shop for our customers, and this expansion helps our team offer complete installation solutions,” commented senior vice president Dave Elkin. “The addition of Tury is a great example of our team identifying a product that has a unique market advantage and offers our customers a new revenue opportunity.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.

ATOTO to Launch New Car Audio Products at KnowledgeFest 2024

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LAKE FOREST, CA (02.0.2.24) – ATOTO, a leading manufacturer of innovative car audio products, is excited to announce its 2024 channel launch at KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas, Feb. 2-4. The company will showcase two new versions of its S8 products, tailored for North America dealers and distributors.

See the new ATOTO lineup with Michael Cai in booth 1204 at KnowledgeFest in Vegas.

ATOTO’s products feature cutting-edge technology, such as 4G LTE readiness, a single add-on camera with 360 parking, and a back-up camera with streaming video. The company also plans to add Chat GPT to its head units, which provides intelligent voice assistance based on Chat GPT Technologies.

“We are always looking for ways to improve our head units with the latest technology,” said Kenji Kawaguchi, Director of Sales at ATOTO. “We have the advantage of being small, lean, and having our own factory. We can move very fast and deliver high-quality products.”

In addition to in-dash floating display head units, ATOTO will also introduce tablet style products and a new line of vehicle specific expeditor products. The product line will also include amplifiers, speakers and connectivity accessories.

ATOTO has partnered with The Opus Edge, a team of industry veterans led by Dan Beggs, Dan Mangan and Ernie Hundal, to assist its launch, partner recruitment and policy development. ATOTO is currently in talks with sales agencies, distributors and dealers. The company has two factories in China and produces its own products as well as OEM products for other companies. Tech support is provided from the company’s Lake Forrest, CA headquarters with two dedicated staff.

Visit ATOTO at KnowledgeFest Booth #1204 to learn more about its products and opportunities.

Contact:

Dealer Inquiries: 1-800-MYATOTO (1-800-692-8686)

Dan Beggs dan.b@myatoto.com 

Dan Mangan dan.m@myatoto.com

Ernie Hundal ernie.h@myatoto.com

Visit myatoto.com for more.

Lucas Automotive NA Introduces AGM Battery Line to US Market

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ITASCA, IL (02.02.24) – Lucas Automotive is pleased to announce the introduction of it’s MAX AGM
battery series to the US Market. Max Series solves the problems caused by the overuse of the starter
motor in vehicles equipped with start/stop technology. Lucas AGM start/stop batteries have an average
of three times the energy and service life of a conventional battery. They are the perfect battery solution
for vehicles where, in addition to the power needed for driving operations, they must cope with the
challenges of intense conditions – cold winters, hot summers or powering accessories and equipment.
Installers of the batteries will appreciate the factory fitment with perfect terminal placement and
utilization of factory mounting points.

“We are in an ever-increasingly electrically driven world, and the demands on vehicle batteries are
greater today than ever,” explains Steve Rogers, Vice President of Sales. “When we began our
cooperative agreement with Lucas Automotive of England last year, we immediately recognized the
quality European-built batteries that they have been offering in much of the rest of the world would be
of significant benefit to north Amerian dealers. We also felt that we could bring core values from our
Lucas Lighting brand to apply to the battery market.”

Lucas MAX AGM batteries are now available from the Illinois warehouse in the six most popular replacement sizes, ranging in MAP price from $209.95-$329.95. Units carry a full 3 year replacement
warranty.

Visit lucas-lighting.com for more.

Elettromedia Corp. Welcomes Brian Power as Vice President of Marine Division

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NASHVILLE, TN (02.01.24) – Elettromedia, a leading global provider of high-quality marine and car audio products, has announced the appointment of Brian Power as the Vice President of its Marine Division, which includes both the Hertz and Audison marine audio brands.

Having most recently served as the Vice President of U.S. Retail Sales for JL AUDIO, Power brings to his new role extensive experience to strengthen the sales and marketing and sales strategies for Hertz and Audison.

“We are pleased to welcome Brian to our team,” Pietro Pantaleone, Global President of Elettromedia, said. “With his extensive experience and demonstrated track record throughout his career, we anticipate that he will significantly contribute to the advancement of our business in North America. He will be able to represent the value of our culture and our commitment to developing unique products for marine audio enthusiasts.”

L to R: Pietro Pantaleone, Global President of Elettromedia, with Brian Power, Vice President of the Marine Division at Hertz.

His understanding of the audio market, combined with his talent for cultivating business relationships and delivering clear, engaging communication, positions him perfectly for his new role as Vice President of the Marine Division at Hertz.

“I am extremely excited and honored to join the Elettromedia family and to be working with a sales team I hold in very high regard,” Power said. “The Hertz marine family of products are amongst the best engineered products on the planet. Elettromedia products are in the best boats builders as well as the premier retailers in the U.S. The future is bright for Hertz and Audison and I am proud to be a part of that future.”

In his new role, Power will spearhead the development of Elettromedia Corporation’s Marine business, leveraging his extensive industry experience and proven track record to drive marine brand expansion, forge strong relationships, and fuel growth. His leadership will be instrumental in charting the course for our continued success in the marine audio sector for Hertz and Audison.

For more information about Hertz, please visit https://hertz-audio.com.

Maxxsonics Will Be Attending KnowledgeFest Las Vegas 2024

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LIBERTYVILLE, IL (02.01.24) – Maxxsonics is excited to be in attendance at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas 2024 this year. The event takes place from February 2nd through the 4th at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas Nevada. Taking audio to new heights across MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek, the entire family of Maxxsonics audio brands will be in attendance at KnowledgeFest 2024.

Founded in 1994 by a group of specialty retailers and reps in the Midwest, KnowledgeFest brings together knowledge and experiences from participants within the Mobile Electronics industry. KnowledgeFest includes over 27 educational workshops, 70 manufacturer trainings, incredible networking opportunities, and a trade show featuring manufacturer and benefit-provider exhibits. Maxxsonics will be ready to talk one-on-one with dealers, specialty manufacturers, and others in attendance spreading insight and knowledge on the audio horizons of MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek.

We hope you can be a part of KnowledgeFest 2024 and join us in taking our knowledge and mobile electronic insights to the next level!

Follow the link to learn more details and complete event information on KnowledgeFest 2024. https://www.knowledgefest.org/

Follow the link to register as an attendee.
https://www.knowledgefest.org/register

MSC Installs New Audiotec Fischer / Blam Product Displays for Dealers

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MESA, AZ (02.01.24) – It’s one thing for a manufacturer to ship a dealer a new product display, but it’s quite another when they send in their Team to install, set-up, tune and train their Dealer Partners on presentation ideas.

MSC (www.msc-america.com), North American Distribution Partner for Audiotec Fischer (Brax, Helix, Match), BLAM Audio, Escort Radar, and Mobridge Integration, takes this approach with each and every presentation system delivered to ensure success for their Partners.

“We take great pride in delivering the best customer service experience in the industry, and that includes making sure all of our displays are delivered, installed, and set up personally,” said Larry Penn, MSC President. “Plus, we take the time to train and educate our Dealer Partners on how to best utilize these displays. This gives our Partners the ideal face-to-face time with our staff to not only learn about the products on the displays and our training and marketing initiatives, but also to help understand our unique culture.”

MSC takes the retail display experience to another level by offering a truly unique and premium service. MSC guides the dealer in the display purchase and product selection along with pre-fitting and wiring of the displays before shipping.

L to R: Nik Edmonds (MSC), Jake Jesty (owner / Sound Evolution), Jesh Jesty (owner / Sound Evolution), and Mike Eckley (MSC) during MSC’s recent visit to Houston to deliver and install Sound Evolution’s new product display. (image courtesy of MSC)

“The MSC team will then schedule an onsite visit with the dealer to complete the final assembly, tuning of the display as well as training of the staff ensuring optimum sales potential can be reached,” added Mike Eckley, MSC Director of Specialty Dealer Development. “MSC understands that many shops are busy with clients and we want to assist in the most effective ways possible.”

Jake Jesty, co-owner of Houston’s Sound Evolution, said they firmly believe that the MSC display not only adds value to the products they offer in store, but also enhances the store’s overall atmosphere. “It serves as both a functional and visually appealing focal point, leaving a lasting impression on our clients,” he said. “Having MSC personnel deliver and set up the display ensures that it is showcased in the best possible way, maximizes its impact on our clients, and it gives us peace-of-mind knowing that it will be done correctly and efficiently while we focus on our business. The quality of the brands MSC represents has exceeded our expectations, and their team has been highly professional and responsive throughout the process over the years.”

Nick Gabriel, owner of The Car Audio Shop in Austin, Texas said he is very pleased with his new Helix display and the process of having it delivered and installed by MSC. “The display is clean, yet simple, and a real time saver for me having had MSC take care of it all. Time, after all, is vitally important. MSC has great sounding and reliable products and it works great with modern technology in cars. It is easily the best DSP on the market.”

NOLA Sound Solutions has both Helix and BLAM Audio displays in its New Orleans-based showroom. “Having the team from MSC come out personally and set-up the display was both awesome and very helpful,” said owner Christian Herrera. “It not only allowed me to work side-by-side with Nik (Edmonds) and Mike (Eckley) during the set-up but also to ask questions, making it much like getting the customer experience walking into a car audio shop and receiving a demo for the first time. Since I have started working alongside MSC, it has always been a phenomenal experience including the training, support, and commitment they have given to me and my company. It really embodies what Larry (Penn, MSC President), Jason (Digos, MSC Vice President) and the rest of the team is creating, which is a company that truly has your best interest at heart.”

The display Dylin Ray Owner/Operator and Eli Kunzat Owner/Operator of Houston’s Ultimate Innovations recently had installed features the Helix Compose line and Helix amplification with built-in DSP. “We want to give our customers a truly unique tuned experience,” explained Dylin. “Being a smaller up-and-coming shop, it was well worth having MSC come out and not only install the display while we could stay working, but adding a personal touch by tuning and teaching us how to use it. We have not received that experience from anyone else and it was truly a white glove install with particular attention to detail.” Dylin added that they are truly happy with all MSC has to offer and the direction it’s taking with innovation and pushing the envelope. “Without a doubt, MSC’s display will be one that will thrive and work for years to come. We can’t wait to share this display with our customers and show what MSC and its brands really bring to the table.”

Eckley concluded, “The new Audiotec Fischer products are outstanding. We are excited to get these displays and products ready for dealers and to make sure we answer all of their questions so they are confident and ready to answer those same questions from their customers.”

For more information, please visit www.msc-america.com, call 480-372-2929 (USA) or 403-698-3695 (Canada), or email sales@msc-america.com.

myFirstech Academy Announces New 2024 Training Dates for Installers 

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SEATTLE, WA (01.31.24) – Firstech, LLC, the makers of Compustar and DroneMobile, is excited to announce new training dates for myFirstech Academy, a hands-on training program designed to equip installers with comprehensive knowledge and skills in 12-volt installations.

 The upcoming training sessions are scheduled as follows: 

  • April 1-5, 2024 in Dallas, TX 
  • May 20-24, 2024 in Seattle, WA 

 The myFirstech Academy training events are open to installers of all levels of experience and will feature two days of intensive instruction at different skill levels. Attendees can expect an immersive learning experience covering installation fundamentals, advanced troubleshooting, and networking opportunities with installers from across the country. 

“We are thrilled to offer these new training dates as part of our commitment to empowering installers with the latest industry knowledge and skills,” shares lead instructor Doug Reed. 

The training sessions will include hands-on 12-volt installer training, complimentary meals, entertainment, and a once-in-a-lifetime networking opportunity. Moreover, the trainings are free of charge with a $99 refundable deposit, making it accessible to installers looking to enhance their expertise in 12-volt installations. 

For registration and additional details, interested individuals can visit the myFirstech Academy website at www.firstechllc.com/myfirstech-academy. 

 

Tint World Opens Location Near Fort Campbell, TN

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CLARKSVILLE, TN (01.31.24) — Tint World® Automotive Styling Centers™ announces the opening of its sixth Tennessee store, delivering high-quality automotive styling and performance services to the fast-growing Clarksville metropolitan area and the nearby Fort Campbell U.S. Army base.

“It’s an honor to serve the community around Fort Campbell,” said Tint World Clarksville owner Gamaliel Martinez, who serves in the Army Reserve as an aviation mission survivability officer. “I was drawn to Tint World by the dependable, repeatable franchise systems they provide to support franchisee success. But the company’s proven commitment to veterans and active service members as well as their families closed the deal. It’s gratifying to be able to offer Tint World’s comprehensive selection of premium services and products from the most trusted brands to our proud patriotic community.”

Tint World Clarksville, located at 305 Tiny Town Rd., Ste. A, Clarksville, TN 37042, provides a comprehensive range of premium aftermarket products and services, including customized audio and video systems, high-quality wheels and tires, advanced security enhancements, industry-leading window tinting, and paint protection films.

To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about Tint World Clarksville, call (931) 378-8895 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/tn/clarksville-078/.

“We couldn’t ask for a better franchisee to represent the Tint World brand in Clarksville and the Fort Campbell community,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “With his record of service, he is in a unique position to connect with customers and build lasting relationships. He’s also demonstrated his dedication to implementing all the resources Tint World provides our franchisees. Focusing on quality customer service and committing to our innovative franchise system ensures he will drive growth and long-term success.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

PAC Announces GM6A-RST RadioPRO Advanced Interface for Select 2014+ General Motors Vehicles

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CLEARWATER, FL (01.31.24) – PAC is excited to announce the release of the GM6A-RST RadioPRO Advanced Interface for select 2014-2019 General Motors vehicles. This latest addition to the RadioPRO Advanced series is designed to provide seamless integration for aftermarket radios while retaining important factory features and now retains Bose® amplifier (standard and premium, MOST 50) with fader and balance control.

The GM6A-RST has been engineered to work with the broadest range of GM vehicles, including those with Bose® or standard/non-amplified sound systems, and eliminates the need for additional adapters or modules. It is also pre-programmed to retain OnStar® functionality and retains steering wheel control functionality, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel while changing songs, adjusting volume, and more. Equipped with factory USB port retention cable for easy connection of cell phones, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto use, or external USB thumb drives. GM6A-RST also retains OEM aux input for external media players.

To enhance driver safety, the GM6A-RST is designed to control the PAC camera management product, VS41, allowing customers to add front and side cameras to their vehicles.  GM6A-RST is available now for $549.00 msrp at authorized PAC retailers.

For more information regarding PAC, contact your PAC sales representative. If you are interested in becoming an Authorized PAC dealer, visit our contact page.