SEMA Garage Opens in Detroit

PLYMOUTH, MI (08.22.22) – The SEMA Garage in Detroit, MI, is now open for business. The new 45,000-square-foot facility represents a significant milestone for the automotive aftermarket industry and is the first-ever research facility dedicated to testing and understanding how the aftermarket is impacted and can successfully work with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Located in Plymouth, MI – just 30 miles from Detroit – the SEMA Garage Detroit features a large ADAS technology center, an installation center, and will expand to include a four-wheel chassis dyno lab, and another dyno lab capable of testing diesel and gasoline tailpipe emissions. Like the high-tech SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, Calif., the Detroit facility will give aftermarket parts manufacturers access to sophisticated resources that are typically accessible only to large-scale manufacturers.

SEMA President & CEO Mike Spagnola, left, and SEMA Garage Detroit General Manager Ben Kaminsky cut the ribbon on the new 45,000-square-foot SEMA Garage in Detroit. It is the first-ever research facility dedicated to testing and understanding how the aftermarket can work with ADAS systems.

“The SEMA Garage Detroit is a game changer in helping aftermarket manufacturers develop products for today’s sophisticated automobiles,” said Ben Kaminsky, SEMA Garage Detroit General Manager. “We will be collaborating with automakers, suppliers, and key players in the industry to conduct some groundbreaking research. We are really going to be able to take product development and testing capabilities to a whole new level.”

Similar to the facility in Diamond Bar, the SEMA Garage in Detroit will feature exclusive OEM measuring sessions, scanning services, advanced tools and equipment, a CARB-recognized emissions lab, and a modern training center for members to use. Since opening in 2014, the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar has helped manufacturers to secure more than 600 Executive Orders (EOs) from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) – more than any other testing facility.

The SEMA Garage in Detroit will offer all SEMA members complimentary access to automotive garage tools and equipment for aftermarket product development, R&D, prototyping, and measuring sessions. Additionally, the facility is available for trainings, how-to/installation videos, product reveals, and production video and photography.

Moreover, 5,000 of the 45,000-sq.-ft. building will be devoted exclusively to research on ADAS. The ADAS Center represents a new venture for SEMA, where manufacturers will be able to obtain static calibration of on-board vehicle ADAS systems (radars and cameras). With access to OEM-quality equipment and procedures, manufacturers will be able to easily troubleshoot software/hardware obstacles, as well as work on dynamic testing in conjunction with local facilities.

“The SEMA Garage Detroit facility opens up new doors and opportunities for our member companies and SEMA,” said Kaminsky. “We will be able to elevate our current offerings by making the services accessible to new members, incorporating new technology, and collaborating with key partners in the area.”

The Detroit facility is three times larger than the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar. SEMA Garage Detroit features new equipment, such as emissions and horsepower testing for all-wheel-drive and diesel vehicles, vehicle lifts, full sets of tools, fabrication equipment, an alignment rack, 3D scanning tools, and engineering software. The lab accommodates a 48-inch all-wheel-drive chassis dynamometer and includes a new emissions test bench. With equipment that meets CARB’s new 1066 testing requirement standards, SEMA Garage Detroit will be able to perform all required CARB and EPA test procedures.

“SEMA Garage provides manufacturers access to tools and equipment without the exorbitant individual costs,” said Kaminsky. “Manufacturers no longer need to rely on trial and error for their product development, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. SEMA Garage Detroit will enable more manufacturers access to our resources.”

Through the SEMA Garage’s resources, manufacturers are often able to develop fully functional prototypes in as little as two weeks and obtain CARB EOs in as little as 12 weeks. The SEMA Garage Detroit facility is now open for members.

For more information, visit www.semagarage.com.

Remembering Ken Johnson and His 12Volt Industry Career

OXNARD, CA (08.21.22) – It is with great sadness all at BOSS Audio learned of Ken’s Johnson’s passing on August 18th, 2022. Ken was the company’s Senior Product Manager and had been here with BOSS for the past year and a half and previously for 5 years working mostly in the BOSS Audio China headquarters.

“Ken was not only a great colleague to work with but truly a great and kind friend to everyone. He always had a positive attitude and it showed through his personality and behavior. His knowledge and experience made us at BOSS a better company. He will be missed. Our hearts and sincere condolences go out to Ken’s family and friends for their loss,” Douglas Kern, Vice President Sales BOSS International Group, stated.

Ken Johnson

“It is with deep sorrow that we learned of Ken Johnson’s passing. Kenny was a former Dual Electronics Director of Product Management. Colleagues, suppliers and customers will all remember Kenny for his industry knowledge, professionalism, and creativity. Those of us that worked closely with him will remember and miss his humor, dedication, and friendship. Kenny was never too busy to help a friend or colleague and he will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to his Family for their loss,” Matt Vinson, Senior Vice President Dual Electronics Corp, related.

“The loss of Kenny is a hard hit to all that knew him whether within or outside of our industry. As a former Voxx team member rolling in from our acquisition of Jensen many moons ago, Kenny brought his deep technical and practical product knowledge to our group and was an essential part of our product development team. He was not only a colleague to many of us in our professional lives, he was also a great friend who will be dearly missed. His passing reopens several wounds of a near and dear industry veteran who passed way too early. Our deepest condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time,” Joe Caltabiano, Vice President Vehicle Entertainment VOXX Electronics Corporation relayed.

Please remember Ken Johnson and his contributions to the 12volt industry.

JVC Ships Step-Up Apple CarPlay / Android Auto Receiver

LONG BEACH, CA (08.22.22) – JVC Mobile Entertainment announced that it is now shipping a new “step-up”  Apple CarPlay / Android Auto-ready multimedia receiver, the KW-M780BT with a MAP of $449.95.

“As we’ve come into a new normalization of product availability, there has still been a drought of mid-level CarPlay ready receivers in the marketplace,” said Ron Trout, JVC Mobile Entertainment Director of Sales. “Our dealer base has seen a surge in consumer demand for a moderately priced receiver with step-up features like iDatalink Maestro RR compatibility, and with this in mind, we decided to expedite the availability of this type of product by air-freighting in the first round of our new KW-M780BT.” 

Newly highlighted features for the KW-M780BT include a completely redesigned 6.8” capacitive touchscreen, iDatalink Maestro RR compatibility with an updated GUI (Graphic User Interface), and a new-for-JVC type-D HDMI input. It touts 3 sets of 4-volt RCA pre-outs, 3 camera inputs, and is SiriusXM ready. Continued unique highlights from JVC include gesture touch control (enabling the ability to change things like the volume or track with the swipe of a finger), user shortcut key customization, sound lift and space enhancement (virtual sound improvements), and more. Its digital (mech-less) design also ensures fitment in a greater variety of applications, as it has a very shallow installation mounting depth of just under 3 inches.

“Learning of JVC air-freighting in the KW-M780BT was a pleasant surprise,” said Brad Scott of Brad’s Car Tunes in Oregon.  “With an influx of entry-level CarPlay ready receivers in the market, many of our customers are wanting and willing to upgrade to the next level to be able to retain OEM functionality (such as retaining their front and rear cameras, or even add additional cameras), of which they are unable to do with basic CarPlay receivers without iDatalink Maestro compatibility. This new KW-M780BT is exactly what we need to satisfy this demand and provide our customers with a better solution at a price that most are willing to pay to achieve a better experience.”  

KW-M780BT web page:  https://www.jvc.com/usa/car-entertainment/multimedia-receivers/kw-m780bt/

For more information on JVC Mobile Entertainment, visit http://www.us.jvc.com/car.

Car Spa Dealer Services Wins NavAtlas Prize on The Spin-To-Win 192

SHREVEPORT LA (08.20.22)  WTF…Win This Friday. Car Spa Dealer Services won the NavAtlas Prize on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel 192 on Friday morning, August 19th. 

The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. The weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is now spinning in Year 4.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for 192nd time on Friday morning August 19th. The Wheel landed on the NavAtlas space and the Car Spa Dealer Services slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning slip was posted. A video of the wheel spin was also posted.

We reached out to Car Spa Dealer Services in Arlington VA and gave them the news a NavAtlas will be headed their way. Tom Bloom was very happy to hear the news and said he will pass the news along to Seth. We contacted Patrick Brooks and passed along the news that the 192nd 12volt Spin-To-Win landed on the NavAtlas space.

Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.

12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include Kicker, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, AIS, PowerBass, CRUX, DS18, JBL, Massive Audio, Kenwood, JVC, USASpec and Nakamichi. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL, Soundz Plus in Naperville IL, Markland Designs in Lithonia GA, Electronics Plus in Salinas CA, Xtreme Autosports in Santa Clarita CA, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Texas Dreamz Customs in Spring TX, Wired Electronics in Linden NJ and Intense Car Audio in OKC, OK, Underground Auto in Sarasota FL, Car Toys Tulsa in Tulsa OK,  Real Audio in Erie PA, Go Autosound in Union NJ, DFM Stereo in Ukiah CA, Impact Tint and Audio in Tyler TX, Mobile Sound Systems in Arlington TX, Redline Audio and Performance In Spindale NC, Car Audio Land in San Diego CA, Audio X Custom Car Audio in Florence AL, River Oaks Car Stereo in Houston TX, American Radio Orlando in Sanford FL, Illustrious Customs in Woodbridge VA, Remote Start Pros in Lawrence MA, HiPro Audio in Victoria TX, AudioPlanetNY in Huntington Station NY, Endless Possibilities in Aurora IL, Audio Finesse in Santa Monica, Drive Customs in San Luis Obispo CA, Custom Works, Noblesville IN, AtoZ Detail in West Haven CT, Cars 843 in Charleston SC, CarTunes Atlanta in Atlanta GA, Mobile Concepts in Garwood NJ, Duke’s Car Stereo in Flint MI, Infinity Auto Sound, King Car Audio in Norwalk CT, PopTronics in Baltimore MD, Sanford Sound in Sanford ME,  Angelvip2474 in Draper UT, Dynamic Car Audio in Baltimore MD, Hi-Pro Audio in Victoria TX, Car Stereo Max in Houston, Pro Audio Center in Richland MS, Rhodes Off-Roads in Farmington MO, Model Electronics in Ramsey NJ, Class A Sounds in Athens OH. Just Audio Video in North Providence RI, CT_Custom in Philadelphia, Audio Solutions in Florence MS and The Audio Shop RC in Rapid City SD, DG Motorsportz in High Point NC, ST Mobile in Texarkana TX, AR Custom OC in Orange CA, Temecula Mobile Sound in Temecula CA,  Unique Auto Sound in Lindenhurst NY, D’s Garage in Corona CA and DS2 Mobile Solutionz in Tomball TX, C G Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, California Audio in West Valley City UT and The Action Audio Store in Wethersfield CT, Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, Electronics Depot Car Audio in Altamonte Springs FL. Car Audio Garage in Pearland TX, Pinnacle Autosound in Lake City FL, J H Audio in Bowling Green VA, The Car Audio Shop StL in High Ridge MO, Anthonys Car Stereo in North Highlands CA, Flynn Audio in Middleton WI, Living Loud Car Audio in Pelham AL, Trail Star Audio in Minnesota, On The Spot Audio in Pennsauken NJ, Animated Car Audio in Essex MD, West Coast Car Audio in Citrus Heights CA, Modified Auto Sound in East Alton IL, Star Car Audio in Hermiston OR, VapeNAudio in Clovis CA, SoundWorks in Millersville MD Eclipse Car Audio in Vancouver WA, J A Custom Audio in Houston TX Jose Electronics in North Hills CA,  Sound Proof Car Stereo in Douglasville GA, Auto Additions in Springfield IL, Elite Car Audio in Hollywood CA, Masters Car Stereo in Greenville SC, Audio Plus in Eden NC, Seismic AutoSound in Novato CA, Car Audio Addicts in Pittsburgh PA and AudioKing Tinting in Yakima WA, Arias Tint and Alarms in Duncanville TX, Odeh Car Audio in Gadsden AL, 12volt Specialist in Newark DE, Cutting Edge Audio in San Diego CA, Southern Auto Fab in Lafayette LA, California Sound in Fontana CA, Big Boyz Toyz in Florence SC, 740 Audio in Athens OH and 12volt Outfitters in Hollywood FL., High Quality Auto Sound, Lawrence MA, Custom Car Stereo SC in Spartanburg SC, Zier Box in Dallas TX, Maximum in Manville NJ, Audio Car Stereo in Miami FL, Mach 1 Audio in Washington MO, Doren Car Stereo in Queens Village NY, Side-x-Side Audio in South Charleston WV, Sound Concept in Nanuet NY, Pda Road Gear in Littleton CO and A-Plus Audio and Tinting  Newington CT and Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel… on Friday, August 26th.

KICKER Returns to Ocean City Jeep Week as Title Sponsor

STILLWATER, OK (08.19.22) – KICKER heads back east as title sponsor of Ocean City Jeep Week, August 25-28 at the Ocean City (Md.) Convention Center and various landmarks in the area.

Visitors to the KICKER XRV (Xtreme Recreational Vehicle) will have an exclusive opportunity to win a KICKER full bass system, including the TB tube-style loaded enclosure, 400-watt mono amplifier and wiring kit. Also included in the prize pack is free installation after the show by AudioWorks (Newark, Del.), which will also have a booth set up next to the XRV. The KICKER dealer will be installing audio systems on-site for the entire show and will feature several gear packages made especially for Jeepers.

Located in front of the Convention Center entrance, the XRV will set up as headquarters for everything the KICKER brand has to offer for the weekend. The 82-foot big rig is a rolling showroom, complete with a full line of KICKER audio products for powersports, motorcycle, marine and car. The XRV’s recently upgraded Boom Room features a larger, louder enclosure suspended in a custom steel framework, built to withstand the bass emanating from a massive 40,000-watt power bank. An array of horn-loaded tower speakers delivers clear, loud highs while a dozen Q-Class L7 15-inch subwoofers bring thunderous bass to fans throughout the show.

OC Jeep Week has a nonstop event schedule planned for every day of the show, beginning with 300 Jeeps cruising the Ocean City sand at the Beach Crawl. The KICKER Show and Shine is planned for Thursday and Friday and three daily KICKER sand-course events will run in the afternoon. The Kickoff party caps off the first day of the show, and the Jeep Jam trail and obstacle course will be daily attractions, as will be a Kids Zone, live DJ, Vendors Row and more.

Full event details are available on the OC Jeep Week web page at oceancityjeepweek.com.

Visit kicker.com for more.

Audiomobile Ships “Next-Gen” Elite Series Subwoofer

LAS VEGAS, NV (08.19.22) – Audiomobile has announced the initial deliveries of their latest ‘Advanced Technology’ car audio subwoofers – the Elite 3210. Over 5-years in development, the new Elite series builds upon the original Elite series, but adds substantial improvements, developed over the past several years, which were introduced on the highly regarded Evo and GTS series of drivers.

The Elite series features an array of advanced, unique performance technologies, including premium Copper Clad Aluminum wire (CCAW), ‘3 ohm’ voice coil, driven by a large, dual-stacked magnet and fully CNC machined top-plate, to provide for longer magnetic field and more precision magnetic-gap.

Featuring an unprecedented performance-envelope, in a ‘low-profile’ driver, the new Elite 3210 delivers a remarkable 21.5 mm linear Xmax, Klippel verified and will handle over 750 watts RMS. 

Additional features include the proprietary, patent-pending “ICAR” Intercooler as well as the unique, Aluminum “FMD” (Flux Modulation Device), which together serve to significantly lower inductance, reduces Intermodulation distortion and virtually eliminate power-compression.  This all translates to greater output and higher power-handling.

  • Class-leading power-handling and linear-excursion envelope
  • No axial motor-vent provides for minimal enclosure depth
  • Premium “CLS” Kevlar Composite Laminated Sandwich cone
  • Unique, Nickel-plated CNC machined, forged steel T-yoke motor

This rare combination of features allows the performance, but works optimally in enclosures under .65 cubic foot, as well as in ported boxes, and is ideally suited for use with the Audiomobile MCAR pre-tuned Passive Radiator. When used together, this creates a 13-inch ‘Reflex’ subwoofer system, tuned to 35 Hz, in a very compact .65 cf enclosure. The Elite 3210 is also performs extremely well in ‘Infinite Baffle’ type applications, which the prior Elite series was famous for.

In addition, the high-performance suspension features a heavy-duty 25 mm premium SBR rubber surround, 8” flat-spider, with ‘in-line’ lead wires, to allow over 2-inches of peak to peak excursion provided by the unique motor.   

This performance is packaged in a very compact 5.3” mounting-depth, making the Elite 3210 the longest excursion, low-profile subwoofer on the market, at any cost. The MSRP on the Elite 3210 is $599.00 and is shipping now.

Visit audiomobile.net for more.

Tint World Appears for 7th Time on Inc. 5000 Annual List

NEW YORK, NY (08.19.22) – Inc. has announced that Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is No. 4,848on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment — its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. Tint World also ranks 11th in the automotive industry, 389th in the state of Florida, and 169th in the city of Miami!

“Tint World delivers unprecedented value for franchisees and customers, as shown by our repeated rankings in this exclusive list of America’s top-performing businesses,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “The foundations of our proven growth strategy have always been providing premium automotive products and services and empowering franchise owners with predictable processes that ensure their success. As Tint World continues to support the success of local franchisees and also expands into exciting new markets, we look forward to future appearances in the Inc. 5000.”

The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 have not only been successful, but have also demonstrated resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages, and the ongoing impact of Covid-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23.

“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” said Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work, and rising to the challenges of today.”

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.

Visit tintworld.com for more.

PowerBass Seeking Sales Manager – Ontario, CA

PowerBass USA, Inc., an established Southern California Car Audio Manufacturer is seeking an
experienced Sales Manager to work with Domestic and International accounts with a proven track
record to work in its corporate office located in Ontario, California.

Essential Functions:
– Manage, Train and Lead Network of Domestic and International Distributors and Outside Sales Reps
– Ability to Plan & Forecast Territory Sales
– Ability to Identify Growth Opportunities within Existing Customer Base and Prospect New Markets
– Ability to Travel throughout assigned Sales Territory to support sales network Domestic and International

Minimum Requirements:
• Must be Fluent in Spanish and English
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in Consumer Electronics selling to both retail and wholesale
customers. Current or Developed customer base for International and Domestic markets is
preferred.
• Exceptional Communications, Customer Service Skills, and Relationship Building.
• Ability to Work in a fast-paced and continually evolving environment
• Computer Proficiency in Windows Office and CRM systems.

Compensation package includes: Competitive salary with commissions, 401K program, paid vacation/sick days, and health benefits.

Please email your resume along with salary history to:
e.harbour@powerbassusa.com

Mid-State Distributing Hiring Electronic Sales / 12 Volt Sales Person – Chicago, IL

• Full-Time
• Benefits: 401k, dental, life insurance, medical, vision

Job Description
Electronics Sales / 12 Volt Sales Person – Chicago, IL Branch
Must-Have: Working Knowledge of 12 Volt Industry – Thru Retail and/or Electronics
Sales/Distribution.

Qualifications
• Experience in Car Audio Retail or Electronics Distribution Industry is preferred
• A proven track record in sales is preferred. (Retail or distribution)
• Marketing and online sales experience is a plus.
• Working knowledge of Excel, Word and Office programs.
• Some travel required – Must have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
• Background checks are part of the hiring process; this may include a Motor Vehicle Check.

Company Description
Mid-State Distributing Continues to expand in the Midwest building a team of professionals who have a
passion to deliver excellence in customer service and profitable solutions to their dealers.
Mid-State Distributing – Why Work Here?
Great benefits including medical, dental, vision care with paid vacation and holidays.
We are a family owned Business thriving in the Mid-West developing new business
opportunities.

Compensation and benefits will depend upon level of experience.

Submit your resume to s.davis@m-state.com

DOW Technologies Hosts 3rd DOW Elite Dealer Retreat

TAMPA, FL (08.18.22) – DOW Technologies, the leading independently owned technology distributor, hosted their third DOW Elite Dealer Retreat August 1-2 at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Georgia. DOW brought in over 300 customer attendees representing 148 companies to attend the two-day event.

The DOW Elite Dealer Retreat brings together manufacturers and dealers in a relaxed environment that includes training, product demonstrations, a trade show and plenty of fun. On Monday, dealers were welcomed by DOW’s director of sales, Drew Fischer, who highlighted that many of DOW’s employees come from a small to medium business background. Support of small to medium businesses by DOW and the manufacturers was a theme that flowed throughout the event. After the opening ceremony, dealers attended five unique sessions with different manufacturers that offered training and an opportunity to provide feedback. The evening was capped off with a cocktail hour that featured laser skeet shooting and then a networking dinner.

Tuesday began with dealers attending two business improvement sessions that were designed to highlight opportunities for business owners to expand their offerings and add revenue. Dealers then attended a trade show featuring 42 manufacturers and vendors that covered the wide range of business segments that DOW supports. After the trade show, dealers and manufacturers had a chance to network in a fun, casual atmosphere where they could take advantage of beautiful Lake Oconee. DOW offered the opportunity for attendees to ride jet skis, try wake boarding, take a relaxing ride on a pontoon, swim in the lake or check out a car show that featured demo cars from Alpine, Sony, Metra, Arc Audio, Triton, Illusion and Rockford Fosgate.

Tuesday evening featured a panel of industry leaders speaking about what they see for the future of their industries, how independent small to medium businesses should be preparing now, and what opportunities those businesses should be taking advantage of. Panelists included Rick Kojan, Sony, head of sales aftermarket car audio; Jim Mayo, Samsung, executive director- sales customer install/indirect sales; Giles Sutton, CEDIA, senior vice president- member success & sales; John Yodzis, DOW Technologies, President & CEO.

“We’re very excited to have been able to provide this opportunity for dealers and manufacturers to get back together in a casual atmosphere which leads to great conversations and interactions” stated DOW’s director of sales, Drew Fischer. “We are constantly looking at ways DOW can offer unique programs and services, and this event is a true differentiator in the industry.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1-800-627-2900.