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ALBERTVILLE, AL (10.21.2020) – Each year the Sand Mountain Reporter reaches out to readers for the newspaper’s Annual Best of the Best campaign. Extreme Concepts earned the Readers’ Choice Best of the Best Award in 2020. Extreme Concepts has earned the Best of the Best award since the Sand Mountain Reporter started the campaign in 2013.
The Sand Mountain Reporter is based in Albertville ,AL. The city has a population of just shy of 22,000 residents and is located between Birmingham and Huntsville, AL.
Extreme Concepts Team members Chance Engle, Rocky Peek and Michael Swinford (LtoR) with their Best of the Best 2020 Award banner.
The Extreme Concepts Team made an Instagram post with their Best of the Best Award banner recently. That post grabbed eyeballs in the 12volt Central Studios which led to this article. The area 12volt retailer stocks a wide variety or 12volt products for car, marine and Powersports including Memphis Audio, JL Audio, JBL and Pioneer. Wheels, tint,lift kits, lighting and paint are also offered.
Best of the Best Award banners from previous years are displayed on the showroom walls.
The Instagram post with the Team and banner featured a large eye-catching Extreme Concepts graphic in the background. Turns out the graphic is painted on the rollup door that leads from the showroom to the installation bay. The graphic was painted freehand by a local artist.
Vickers AV is a key supplier for Extreme Concepts. Vickers AV commented on the Instagram post “That’s great. You guys deserve it!”
The large company sign grabs driver’s attention in front of the store.
A representative at the Sand Mountain Reporter offered “When I need anything done to my car I definitely take it to Extreme Concepts.”
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.21.2020) – The specialty equipment aftermarket industry is ready to come together for SEMA360, the new online event taking place Nov. 2-6, 2020, that will allow industry professionals to connect and conduct much-needed business.
More than 650 manufacturers will headline SEMA360 with a Showcase page at the event, which was created by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) as an alternative after announcing that the in-person SEMA Show would not take place in Las Vegas in 2020.
“The automotive specialty equipment industry has a history of successfully pivoting to meet market needs and finding innovative solutions to accomplish a goal,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “Given that the year 2020 has been filled with challenges and uncertainty, the industry is hungry for a platform where they can get together and focus on doing business. SEMA360 is the ideal solution for companies that want to connect and discover what’s new in the market – whether it’s racing and performance, trucks and off-road, hot rod and restoration or collision and tools. Manufacturers from every segment are participating and they have lots of news to share.”
Open exclusively to the industry and not to the general public, SEMA360 is designed to make it easy and efficient for attendees to see new trends and products, meet directly with manufacturers, hear from industry leaders and experts and engage in conversations. The exclusive features in SEMA360 will allow buyers to:
Connect with more than 650 industry-leading manufacturers
Explore more than 2,200 products in the New Products Showcase
See more than 300 unique builds in the Builders Showcase
Choose from more than 30 education seminars to attend
Witness the winner announcements of the Launch Pad and Battle of the Builders competitions
Access manufacturer press conferences, celebrity interviews, and breaking news
Additionally, more than 100 companies that have never exhibited at the SEMA Show have signed up to showcase their products at SEMA360, providing new business opportunities for buyers.
SEMA360 will feature more than 650 manufacturers from every market segment connecting with attendees from throughout the world.
Buyers and attendees are encouraged to register now to secure their credentials in time for SEMA360. The fee is $25 for qualified buyers who are not SEMA members, and the fee is waived for buyers who are SEMA members.
“Attending SEMA360 is a great return on investment for buyers who want to stay on top of the latest trends, products, and technology coming into market,” said Gattuso. “It’s the only event where they’ll be able to interact and engage with hundreds of companies and see thousands of new products from the comfort of their home or office.”
SAN JOSE, CA (10.21.2020) – Shopmonkey, a San Jose, California-based software company serving the automotive industry, and Tint World Automotive Styling Centers have announced an enterprise partnership that equips Tint World franchisees with the leading auto shop management software to maximize efficiency and customer experience while positioning Shopmonkey to continue its rapid growth and innovation.
“Shopmonkey is transforming the auto service industry,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “We recognized an opportunity to support our franchisees with technology that will allow them to streamline their operations, giving them more time to focus on delivering the high-quality products and service that Tint World is known for.”
With Shopmonkey’s cloud-based shop management software, franchise owners at 80 Tint World locations across the United States can increase revenue and streamline daily tasks by automating scheduling, inventory, payment processing and communications in one platform. Shopmonkey’s intuitive interface and clean design ensure optimal user experience and minimize training and onboarding.
“Tint World’s success is built on ensuring a world-class customer experience by providing franchisees with the industry’s best training and operations tools,” said Ashot Iskandarian, CEO and founder of Shopmonkey. “This is an opportunity for us to help them maintain the highest standard of franchisee support and continue the growth and expansion that the company has enjoyed to date and into the future.”
Shopmonkey’s shop management software simplifies all the complexities of running an auto shop business onto a single platform. The company, which announced in August that it raised $25 million in Series B capital, helps shops run, understand and grow their business with easy-to-use software that consolidates tools, saves time, and streamlines their entire operation while improving communication across the board.
“With Shopmonkey, we’re providing Tint World franchisees one of the auto accessory industry’s most innovative and effective tools,” said Jeff Stark, COO of Tint World. “We’re confident that this partnership offers our franchisees extraordinary benefits that are easy to implement and will deliver immediate returns.”
Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto and marine accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheel and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection film, 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.
ANCHORAGE, AK (10.20.2020) SoundShield has introduced a visually striking merchandizing tool for its retailers; a custom-engineered, laser-engraved acrylic and LED-lit wall display to hold SoundShield retail-packaged tubes of sound deadening material.
Designed by co-founder Bryan Schmitt, the purpose of the new display is to elevate the sound deadening category within the retail setting. This allows retailers to merchandise SoundShield products, a category not commonly considered in showroom merchandising. The display invites conversations from either curious clients or as a reminder to sales professionals to include sound deadening in the sales process. The multi-color LED lighting with wireless remote allows retailers to easily customize the display to integrate into their showroom’s color scheme.
“The size of the display is compact, but commands a presence so it makes it a sensible fit for any sized retail shop” comments SoundShield CEO John Schwartz. Several 12 volt specialty retailers in the SoundShield family have tried early production models and provided feedback that proves the new display’s effectiveness.
“This is an excellent way to merchandise sound deadening that presents at eye level so clients can easily see the product” remarked Adam Devine of Devine Concepts in Naples, FL. The configurable color of the LED lighting made the display easily integrate into Adam’s showroom and company colors. Award-winning Mobile Toys, Inc. in College Station, TX also has implemented the display in their store and reports that their customers ask questions about what sound deadening is because of the display, which ultimately leads to sales.
The SoundShield wall display includes the necessary mounting hardware, multi-color programmable LED lighting and weighs just 25 pounds. SoundShield offers a direct purchase of the wall display or discounted pricing with a qualifying minimum product order. If not already a dealer, retailers can fill out a quick application at www.soundshieldusa.com.
ENGLEWOOD, CO (10.20.2020) – VAIS Technology, a Colorado based manufacturer of audio, video, Bluetooth streaming, SiriusXM and SEER convenience integration will be presented at SEMA360
EVP, Dennis Hopper comments: VAIS Technology will be presenting and discussing all its integration devices. SiriusXM integration for vehicles from 2004-2021. There will be live presentations on the operational and customization of the award-winning SEER proximity-based integration. SEER allows proximity-based control of all electronics in a vehicle such as hands-free locking, unlocking, triggering lights, audible and visual confirmations. There are round tables where dealers can come in and see live videos from the VAIS team. Check out and sign up on the SEMA360 website.
About VAIS Technology: Founded in 2003, VAIS Technology offers a wide variety of OEM factory radio upgrades, including SiriusXM add-on adapters, kits for adding a Bluetooth music streaming through a factory radio and SEER proximity devices. VAIS Technology currently offers products for most automotive brands, including Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Honda, Jeep, Land Rover, Mercedes, Mazda, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, VW and more. All VAIS Technology products are built to OEM standards and are designed to offer seamless functionality for best user experience. VAIS Technology products come with one-year warranty and do not affect OEM warranties.
NEW YORK, NY (10.20.2020) – Sirius XM Holdings Inc. has announced that it has completed its acquisition of Stitcher and is moving forward as the premier full-service platform for podcast creators, publishers, and advertisers.
With this acquisition, SiriusXM adds Stitcher, a longtime pioneer in podcasting, to its leading audio entertainment platform. Alongside Pandora, Simplecast and AdsWizz, Stitcher strengthens SiriusXM’s position in this fast-growing area. By combining Stitcher’s leading programming and advertising networks with SiriusXM’s existing suite of hosting and ad technology tools, the Company expands its pre-eminent position in digital audio advertising while generating new ways for creators to find and connect with a broader audience.
stitcher.com
Jim Meyer, Chief Executive Officer of SiriusXM, said, “We are deepening our position in podcasting, the fastest-growing sector in digital audio, and with completion of this transaction, our vision is taking shape. With Stitcher and its varied assets, we are now a one-stop shop able to meet the needs of podcast creators, publishers and advertisers, while also providing listeners with access to great shows, series and programming.”
To advance a powerful and coordinated content strategy, Erik Diehn, CEO of Stitcher, will report directly to Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer of SiriusXM, who also oversees content at Pandora. To help advertisers efficiently and effectively reach their customers across the largest digital audio ecosystem, Sarah van Mosel, Stitcher’s Chief Revenue Officer, will report directly to John Trimble, Chief Advertising Revenue Officer of SiriusXM.
Meyer added, “On behalf of everyone at SiriusXM, we are thrilled to welcome Erik, Sarah, and all of the other talented Stitcher employees to our team. We look forward to working with them as we continue delivering the best listening experiences in audio entertainment and enhancing stockholder value.”
ASHLAND CITY, TN (10.19.2020) – The Cheatham County Fairgrounds in Ashland City TN was the site of the 2020 MECA SQL World Finals.
MECA Commish Steve Stern related “There were 38 competitors at the SQL Finals with the best sounding vehicles on the planet. The MECA Club ended the 2020 SQL Season with a very positive outcome for our member SQL fanatics.”
Set up for the event took place on Friday, October 16th as judging meters were set up and trophies were placed inside for all to see. TRU Technology was the Awards Title Sponsor and owner John Yi traveled from the company’s HQ in California for the SQL Finals. ARC Audio, Zapco, Ohio Generator, XS Power and Linear Power were Trophy Co-Sponsors.
MECA Commish Steve Stern (L) working with Christopher Anderson for RTA Freq Out Score on Anderson’s amazing Chrysler with custom paint, Lambo doors and award winning system.
The Cheatham County Fairgrounds has been the site of previous MECA events. “It was a chilly 36 degrees when we got started on Saturday morning under a clear sky. All went smoothly as the 38 SQL competitors set their vehicles for judging. By mid-afternoon Sunday the judging finished and the 2020 MECA SQL World Finals was a wrap” Stern stated.
The trophies set up for the 2020 MECA SQL World Finals.
Results will be posted by Wednesday at MECAevents.com with images and news, also on Facebook.
John Yi helps unload trophies on Friday at the Cheatham County Fairground. TRU Technology was the 2020 MECA SQL Trophy Title Sponsor. Yi, TRU Technology owner, traveled from the company’s HQ in California for the Finals’ event.
“The 2020 season wraps with the MECA SPL World Finals at SoundCheck Customs in Lafayette, IN the 24th and 25th of October. We are expecting that event to fill the grounds around the SoundCheck location and be bonkers. With 2021 events beginning we are looking forward to an exciting, music enriching year to come” Stern concluded.
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (10.19.2020) – The Mobile Electronics Syndicate (MES) is now going industry public by offering membership services as well as Manufacture sponsor packages. The launch date is set on Friday 11/27/2020. If for any reason you are currently not a member of the MES and are an industry professional, Please make sure to send us a request to join the Facebook group (Mobile Electronics Syndicate) as well as follow our website at mesfamily.com for continued updates and details.
The MES is the Largest Private 12-volt group that exists. We have 4.5K Member’s and growing. We are now offering a multitude of services for our members to grow their business as well as skill set and save time and stress on many platforms of 12volt retail sales, Installation & Fabrication.
Ethan Blau (L) and Ata Ehdaivand, MES Directors, shown hosting a presentation at a previous industry event.
“If Joe & Jane’s Car Stereo shop wants to learn more about branding, advertising, closing, financials, the back end of the business or anything tech related, we would love to be able to help them. There are a lot of people willing to spend many hours a week to make their business better and more successful that may not know how to implement it or pull the trigger so to speak”. Ata Ehdaivand- Director
All MES Family members receive access to a vehicle fit guide that incorporates car audio products from many suppliers as well as many categories. Instead of a salesperson or technician looking up an amplifier on one vendor site and subwoofer on another, or a wiring harness of three major manufacturers or a vehicle dash kit, or even remote start modules and immobilizer bypass modules, They can now consult a single fit guide for the customer’s vehicle all in one place with the Correct information that is updated on a daily or even hourly basis. The fit guide is sponsored by various manufacturers. Right now, a salesperson may have to go to 8-10 websites to find all the products that the 12v-Dashboard lists for the clients wants and needs. When you would spend 15 to 20 minutes of time looking up many aspects of products & install parts/types you can now go to one website and spend 2 minutes accomplishing the same tasks. With the fit guide, a rookie sales professional can feel comfortable and confident to quote a job and or an install on day one, and accurately at that.
The association will also offer a Certification Program for sales professionals as well as technicians, consisting of online tests written by our MECP Master tech as well as contributions from the top industry veterans and vendors. Dealers will receive a certificate upon passing these tests to get MES Certified. Not only can these dealers & techs hang these very professional plaques on the store wall, but there will be a website for consumers to see who is certified as well as a great selling tool and conversational piece. This Certification Program can help sales professionals and technicians achieve the next level in their careers.
The MES Family will also offer YouTube instructional videos on business & Tech training. We are not a buying group although we will provide member discounts on expenses including health care, rental cars, office supplies and vacations. MES Family will also offer marketing services and Social media/Website graphics for Holidays, seasonal promotions, hot selling items, or even a custom one catered to your needs. The Graphics will be customized to each store logo.
We are excited to have our sponsoring vendors announce their support for the MES Family at launch. Some companies have already joined and fully signed on board, including Metra Electronics, Modern Media Geeks, and retail display companies 5-Axis and Audiostak.
As of now Board Members as well as the Admin team are only being compensated through the services of the Group. For example, they may receive the POS software at no cost as well as the 12VDashboard. We want to point out that many retailers, techs, and 12-volt professionals are already giving hours of their time to the Mobile Electronics Syndicate without any compensation. We want to point that out for the simple fact that we love what we do and want to help you as well as continually grow this amazing industry.
The MES Family will also publish a newsletter once a month that talks about the latest industry news, products and problem solving or even national events like COVID-19. It will include a Technician Talk & Sales Talk that may also become part of a YouTube video series.
The Mobile Electronics Syndicate has been an industry Facebook group with 4,500 Plus members and growing, that first launched on November 3rd. of 2016. This news article supplied by the Mobile Electronics Syndicate.
URBANDALE, IA (10.19.2020) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers has announced the opening of a new location in Urbandale, Iowa, under the ownership of local entrepreneurs Earl and Shirley Macleod. This location is the first of three under the Macleod’s ownership, and the franchise’s first center in the state.
The sun is shining in Urbandale, IA as Tint World opens.
“We are happy to bring a great franchise like Tint World to Iowa and our local community,” Earl Macleod said. “Tint World allows us to bring quality auto styling services to the citizens of Urbandale in a way they haven’t seen before.”
The showroom in the new Tint World Urbandale location features outstanding product displays.
Tint World Urbandale will provide a full range of automotive styling and safety services including automotive tint, automotive paint protection film, vehicle wraps, ceramic coating, mobile electronics, advanced driver-assistance systems, car stereo upgrades, work truck upfitting, and residential and commercial window film installation.
“The new Iowa location allows us to continue our rapid expansion throughout the United States, and we believe Earl and Shirley Macleod have the passion to make it a success,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “They will be great additions to the Tint World family.”
12VoltNews.com 