STILLWATER, OK (01.05.26) – Long-Time KICKER Sales Representative Tom Ebeling journeyed into retirement Dec. 31, ending a 40-plus-year career with the audio brand. Ebeling is the principal at Tree and Associates in Chicago.
“For the past 10-plus years since my arrival at KICKER, I have had the pleasure of working with this industry veteran,” said Tom Heath, KICKER Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing. “We appreciate all of Tom’s efforts and wish him the best of luck spending time enjoying his family and friends.
Tom Ebeling
“Tom has had a huge impact in the Chicago for more than 40 years,” continued Heath. “As a sales representative you face many challenges each day. Tom has met those challenges and developed a strong dealer and distributor base that has stood the test of time. He built this from the beginning with hard work, developing trust and partnerships with many valued dealers and distributors. His relationship building and knowledge of the business has helped him adapt and develop within a fast-paced industry that is ever changing and continues to this day.
“All my respect for an industry veteran whom we have all learned from,” Heath concluded. “You will be missed Tom! Enjoy the next chapter of your life!”
NORWOOD, MA (01.05.26) – After a very long, successful and beautiful journey in the Audio industry Lucette and John Nicoll have decided to close Nicoll Public Relations and embark on the new adventure in lifetime retirement.
On December 31, 2025 Lucette and John announced their retirement and closing the successful company of 38 years.
Lucette and John are all smiles after announcing their new journey into retirement.
“Since starting the company in 1987, we have had the most amazing clients whose friendships we will cherish forever. And I’ve had the most wonderful husband and business partner to share the journey with. We have made so many friends in this industry, it’s hard to acknowledge every one of you. But please know that you all hold a very special place in our hearts. Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and joyous 2026 and beyond,” Lucette related.
Nicoll Public Relations provided well-prepared press releases to the 12volt News beginning in 1994. Through the years we have enjoyed working with Lucette and John. The 12volt Central Studios staff wishes Lucette and John a long, happy journey in retirement.
SHREVEPORT, LA (01.01.26) – January 1st 2026 marks the beginning of a New Year filled with opportunities. Happy New Year 2026 to all across the 12volt industry!
The New Year 2026 presents all with opportunities to start with a clean slate and implement a fresh set of goals for the year ahead.
There is an old saying “Nothing is more constant than change.” The fact that online commerce continues to capture sales from brick and mortar retailers has become a constant that won’t change – unless brick and mortar retailers change their approach to the marketplace. E-commerce sales during the 2025 holiday season were up nearly double digits over 2024. Between Black Friday and Christmas eve FedEx, UPS, Amazon and the US Postal Service combined to deliver over 2 billion packages. To be sure, not all of those packages were Christmas gifts. However, as online ordering surged, the majority were Christmas gifts. Estimates are over 18% of those gift packages will be returned.
Brick and mortar retailers of all categories across the U.S. closed thousands of stores in 2024.
In the evermore digital marketplace, all brick and mortar retailers must change their mindset and marketing approach to engage the consumer marketplace. To be successful retailers must create an overall experience consumers can not get from an online retailer. Hearing crisp highs, and feeling bass in the chest, just can not be experienced online. Experiencing in-vehicle lighting plus power sports and marine installations first-hand will drive sales. Safety and convenience products, along with in-vehicle connectivity, are also categories where an exciting in-store experience can drive sales for brick and mortar retailers.
Social media outreach is an extremely powerful vehicle through which 12volt retailers can develop a legion of loyal followers and engage consumers. Mobile devices are in the hands of virtually all consumers today. The smartphone is such a valuable tool for 12volt retailers to showcase their respective message to their followers and engage consumers.
New product arrivals, hot installations, new in-store displays and proactive staff members represent ideal content to highlight through planned social media posts. By the time the morning coffee is brewed a far sighted 12volt retailer could have made an engaging Instagram post for his followers to checkout. That post could feature a new product with an invitation to come into the store for an exciting demonstration. As that Instagram post was made that content could have been shared to Facebook also.
The Instagram Business Profile, which is free, features a contact tab. A follower can tap the contact tab and call the store from their smartphone as they view the post. Also, a follower can send an email to the store as well as get a map to the store. Making a post, with the opportunity to get an immediate response from a follower, is an amazing outreach 12volt retailers can’t pass up in today’s marketplace.
For the good of our 12volt industry, the community of suppliers must endeavor to inform the world of the benefits mobile electronics products offer consumers. It’s is well known the price driven “Race to Zero” has stripped marketing budgets. Recent emphasis on high end in-vehicle audio, in-vehicle connectivity, dash cams, power sports, motorcycles and marine plus lighting upgrades provide terrific product categories to kick off the New Year 2026.
We look forward to seeing your company’s brand and positive activities showcased in the 12volt Central Studios in 2026.
LIVERMORE CA (12.31.25) – GS Distributing Company, a 12-volt and automotive aftermarket distributor serving Northern California and Northern Nevada, announced today that it has joined the Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) as a distributor partner. The partnership significantly expands GS Distributing’s product offerings and reinforces its commitment to supporting dealers with premium brands, strong inventory, and dedicated regional support.
“Joining the Elite Distributor Alliance is an important milestone for GS Distributing,” said Shams Nabi, President, GS Distributing Company. “EDA brings together some of the most respected vendors in the industry, as well as the most sophisticated group of distributors in 12 Volt. This partnership allows us to deliver a broader, more competitive product portfolio to our dealer network across Northern California and Northern Nevada.”
Over the past several months, GS Distributing has worked closely with the EDA team to align product strategies and prepare for the rollout of new vendor lines.
“We’ve spent a great deal of time working with Josh and other EDA members to truly understand the depth of the vendor lineup,” Nabi added. “Our young, energetic team is built around hands-on dealer support, and these new partnerships allow us to better serve our dealers with the products, training, and responsiveness they need to grow their businesses.”
“We are excited to add GS Distributing to the Elite Distributor Alliance. The attention to detail and dealer support that Shams and his team have created makes them a perfect fit for our like-minded group” said Josh Eatherly, Executive Director, EDA.
GS Distributing has already expanded its inventory to include products from Firstech, Kicker, and Wavtech. Products from JVC and Kenwood are expected to be available to dealers as early as the first week of January, with additional brands scheduled to follow in the coming months.
“This is not just about adding brands—it’s about strengthening relationships,” Nabi said. “Our goal is to ensure dealers have consistent access to trusted products while knowing they have a distributor partner fully invested in their success.”
Through its partnership with the EDA, GS Distributing now serves as the authorized distributor for Northern California and Northern Nevada for a range of leading brands, including Alliance, ADS Maestro, Firstech (Arctic Start, DroneMobile, Momento, and NuStart), JVC, Kenwood, Kicker, Limitless, Metra family of brands, Nufilm, RDV, Triton, Vinland, and Wavtech.
Looking ahead to 2026, GS Distributing plans to continue expanding its reach and reinforcing its position as the premier distributor in the region.
“We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead,” Nabi concluded. “As we move into 2026, our focus remains on building long-term partnerships with both new and existing dealers while delivering bestin- class products and service throughout the region.”
For dealers needing support or for questions on the addition of these lines, we ask that you reach out to your area sales manager. To learn more about GS Distributing Company, please visit www.gsdistributingcompany.com or call (925) 925-0025.
TAMPA, FL (12.31.2025) – DOW Technologies has announced that Joey Almirall has joined the company as an Account Manager for the Custom Integration channel. Almirall brings a stellar record of sales success and account management.
Almirall began his career at Best Buy and grew from a Computer Sales Associate to a Microsoft product expert over his first two years. With his excellent service record, Almirall became a leading Geek Squad Supervisor that built customer loyalty through hands-on demonstrations, personalized system designs, and providing exceptional customer experiences. Almirall then transitioned to a sales consultant position that provided in-home consultations tailored to each client’s specific needs to deliver personalized solutions. Almirall’s role with DOW will be focused on customer support for DOW’s dealers in the Southeast.
Joey Almirall, Account Manager
“This is a great opportunity to advance my career in an industry that I’m passionate about and truly enjoy,” stated Almirall. “I am excited to share my knowledge and experience to help support DOW’s customers.”
“Joey has an excellent ability to create relationships with customers that helps him understand their needs,” stated Eric Friedman, strategic sales manager, custom integration. “His experience working with the same end customers that our dealers are servicing is an asset to help him provide ideas and solutions to our dealers.”
“Adding Joey to this award-winning support team benefits our customers due to his industry experience and dedicated support,” added Drew Fischer, vice president, home integration & specialty sales. “We really believe Joey will be an asset that our customers in the Southeast can lean on for great service and product knowledge.”
To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.
Experience the entire mobility network at CES® 2026 — from passenger and self-driving cars to construction, agriculture, marine tech, industrial and advanced air travel. Plus, building on a successful debut at CES 2025, the Mobility Stage, presented by Bosch is shifting into high gear, moving to a prime spot in the LVCC West Hall to welcome even more attendees. Here’s your day-by-day guide to navigating the future of advanced mobility and vehicle tech.
Monday: Plan Your Week
Use Monday to get organized and plan your CES experience. Download the CES app, presented by Panasonic, to build your personal agenda by bookmarking must-see sessions and flagging key exhibitors you want to visit.
Mobility Stage presented by Bosch: Featuring 20 sessions, industry leaders will highlight groundbreaking innovations driving the future of transportation.
The CES 2026 show floor is where mobility comes alive — and there’s more to see than ever.
Autonomous Vehicles: See hands-off, eyes-off driving tech in action.
Mobility Startups: Meet the next wave of mobility disruptors bringing new ideas to market.
Advanced Air Mobility: Explore eVTOLs, drones and air-taxi prototypes reshaping the skies.
In-Vehicle Experiences: Get hands-on with software-defined vehicles, infotainment systems and connected cockpit tech.
Live Outdoor Demos: See the future of transportation come to life in Diamond Lot and Central Plaza.
Tuesday: Mobility Comes Alive
Morning: The CES show floor opens at 10 AM but start your day early with the CTA State of the Industry Address and Siemens Keynote (8:30–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom). Siemens CEO Roland Busch will reveal how AI, digital twins and automation are driving a new era of AI — with huge implications for the future of transportation.
Get the full CES experience with a show floor tour. The Future of Mobility and Beyond tour highlights the latest advancements in transportation and vehicle technology at CES, featuring leading global automakers. It offers insights into mobility and vehicle technology, including EVs, autonomy, connected cars, ecosystem innovations, cutting-edge car audio systems, drone integration, renewable energy solutions and autonomous driving technology. It’s perfect for executives, technologists and strategists who want to see not just where mobility is going, but how it intersects with the future of everything. (LVCC, West Hall)
Note: If you have already registered, login with your CES account to add on this track.
Or head to the Research Summit for Is the Car of the Future Just Another Consumer Device?, presented by Omdia (2-2:40 PM, LVCC Level 2)
Then make your way to the Mobility Stage when John Krafcik of Rivian is presented with the 2026 Mobility Innovator Award for his contributions, followed by a discussion on the role of technology and innovation in mobility. (3:10-3:40 PM, LVCC Level 1)
Wednesday: To Infinity and Beyond
Morning: Start the day with Caterpillar CEO Joe Creed’s keynote (9–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom) as he unveils how the company is transforming from a traditional equipment manufacturer into a high-tech innovator.
Then head to the show floor or Diamond Lot for hands-on experiences with the latest vehicle tech.
Note: If you have already registered, login with your CES account to add on this track.
Thursday: The Future of Transportation
Don’t miss CES 2026’s flagship program for anyone shaping the future of transportation, Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility (Full-Day Track, LVCC, $400).
Insider Tip: Add the deluxe conference pass to your registration for access to all 350+ sessions at CES 2026. Explore the full schedule at www.ces.tech/schedule/.
Friday: Final Connections
Before you leave, make your final rounds in West Hall. Don’t miss visionary exhibitors like John Deere, Hyundai, Segway, Tensor, Waymo and more!
Bonus: Shark Tank, the five-time Emmy® Award–winning hit show that gives entrepreneurs their shot at the American Dream, is on the hunt for bold business owners and game-changing products. Think you’ve got what it takes to swim with the Sharks? Don’t miss your chance! Meet the casting team in person at CES during our open call on Friday. Numbered wristbands will be handed out from 9–11 AM, and only those with a wristband have the opportunity to pitch. (Venetian Expo)
Ready to see what the future of mobility and vehicle tech looks like? At CES, mobility innovation isn’t just on display — it’s being adopted. Whether you’re an executive, technologist or strategist, or exploring CES for the first time, this agenda is your front-row seat to the biggest breakthroughs shaping the mobility revolution at CES 2026.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (12.30.25) – Minnesota-based Northern Tool + Equipment is partnering with RACER Network to launch a first-of-its-kind television series highlighting the next generation of tradespeople — namely, high school CTE (career and technical education) students. A new four-episode series will follow Tennessee’s LaVergne High School CTE juniors and seniors as they participate in the Legends Challenge: Student Build from Northern Tool — transforming a Harley-Davidson Nightster into an XR750-inspired flat-track racer with hands-on mentorship from racers and builders.
“The work these students are doing belongs on the big screen,” said Frank Crowson, chief marketing officer at Northern Tool + Equipment. “RACER Network fans—and motorsports diehards everywhere—are going to see real talent, determination and teamwork on display. This is a serious challenge; even seasoned pros would be pushed to finish a build like this in just 174 days.”
The series is anticipated to air in 2026. Updates can be found on social media and Northern Tool’s YouTube channel.
SHREVEPORT, LA (12.30.25) – WTF… Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. We are now celebrating 351winners and 7 years of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.
CRUX Interfacing Solutions was the first brand to award a prize and Stereo & Video Center was the first winner. The date was December 19th 2018. The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 351, was J&A Electronics. The Wheel landed on the Massive Audio space Friday morning December 19th,
Spinning out a new winner each Friday, a 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, PowerBass, CRUX, Q Power, JBL, RDV, Massive Audio, JVC, KENWOOD, ESB Audio, ZAPCO, King Boxes and VIPER plus 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, January 9th 2026.
Wheel winners can also win a check from the 12volt News.
Some brands have products in the 12volt Central Studios for Wheel Winners.
Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!
TULSA, OK (12.29.25) – Code Zero Customs has been officially recognized as the Best of 2025 Tulsa Award winner in the Car Stereo Store category. This honor is based on verified data from Google reviews as analyzed and certified by Business Rate in Phoenix AZ.
Cody Landis and the Team at Code Zero Customs are rooted in the Tulsa area and participate in area shows like the Starbird Show, FFA Customs Car Show, Low-n-CLEAN and SLAMBOREE. A very strong presence at events like these showcases the possibilities of aftermarket car audio, in-vehicle connectivity and aftermarket automotive upgrades to consumers throughout the wide Tulsa area.
This visibility includes a large tent area and project vehicles on display that drives awareness and business for Code Zero Customs. “At shows our goal is to put our brand in front of enthusiasts. Attendees ask if we are local so they can come to our store to talk about projects for their vehicle” Landis related to the 12volt Central Central following an event.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.29.25) – SEMA revealed the latest honorees of its Visionary 8 program, recognizing eight rising professionals for their leadership and impact in the automotive aftermarket. Open to SEMA members aged 35 and under, the program raises awareness of rising stars who are on track to change and/or advance the automotive specialty equipment market.
“This year’s SEMA Visionary 8 have a work ethic and passion for the industry that is truly inspiring,” says Joe Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. “We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and thank them for their energy and fresh perspective that has elevated the aftermarket for the better.”
Jose Acevedo, Owner/Photographer/Editor, Ace Graphix Acevedo became the youngest photographer published in Street Trucks Magazine. He has also landed multiple magazine front covers, earned the role of Editor for OBS Builder’s Guide and organized his own truck show, “Rio Heat,” a grassroots event that highlights the power of community in South Texas.
Adi Bathla, CEO & Co-Founder, Revv Bathla is a product strategist who has redefined the collision repair space through innovation and integration. As co-founder of Revv, he built a category-defining advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) platform that turns a VIN/estimate into OEM-required calibrations, compliant documentation and insurer-ready invoices.
Anna Glennon, Senior Account Executive, Khan Media Glennon helps brands find their voice and connect with audiences through dynamic storytelling and relationship building. Through her work at Khan Media, she has expanded opportunities for both established companies and emerging creators, helping to shape the next generation of industry communication.
Payton Matlock, OEM Specialist & New Business Developer, Transfer Flow Inc. Matlock combines technical expertise with business insight to oversee full-cycle OEM projects from concept to production. Her ability to manage complex programs, support regulatory compliance and drive cobranded product success has positioned her as a trusted partner for OEM innovation.
