GS Distributing Expands Product Offering After Joining Elite Distributor Alliance – Adds JVC and Kenwood

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.

DOW Technologies Hires New Account Manager

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.

Mobility Experts at CES 2026: A Sample Itinerary

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.

These tracks are included in your registration:

The New American Highway: Building the Autonomy Ecosystem

Mobility Stage presented by Bosch: Featuring 20 sessions, industry leaders will highlight groundbreaking innovations driving the future of transportation.

Cinemo: Smart Home Meets Smart Vehicles – Building a Unified Ecosystem

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)

Afternoon: Catch sessions on the Connect2Car: Transforming the Mobility Experience full-day track (LVCC, $400). Mobility is no longer just about the car — it’s about the connected experience.

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.

Afternoon: Discover cutting-edge innovations in space technology and explore what’s next for the final frontier in sessions on the Novaspace: Innovations in Space Technology – Looking to the Future half-day track. (LVCC, $250).

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.

Visit www.ces.tech for more.

Northern Tool + Equipment Launches TV Show Highlighting Young Tradespeople

The following article was published on TheShopMag.com.

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.

Continue reading this article here.

The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Is Set To Spin In Year 7

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!

Code Zero Customs Named The Best Car Stereo Store In Tulsa OK

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.

For more see codezerocustoms.com

SEMA Vision 8 Recipients Celebrated for Impacting the Auto Aftermarket

The following article was published on TheShopMag.com.

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.

Continue reading this article here.

12volt Companies Connected With Friends And Followers With Merry Christmas Social Media Posts

Presley and I wish all across the 12volt industry a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s 2026.

SHREVEPORT LA (12.26.25) It was terrific to see 12volt companies across the 12volt industry utilizing social media to wish their followers and friends Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas 2025 messages. Their custom graphics delivering the heartfelt Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays messages jumped off the screen of the 12volt Central Studios iPhone on Christmas Day.

The 12volt Central Studios Santa sleigh is now headed back to the North Pole for a much-needed rest before the trip back to the USA for Christmas 2026.

The posts above were selected from the hundreds of Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays posts that 12volt Central Studios staff members noted on social media posts.

Happy Holiday’s 2025 And Merry Christmas To All Across The 12Volt Industry

SHREVEPORT, LA (12.24.2025) – We truly wish all across the 12volt industry a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Season 2025.

During this time of the year we wanted to take time to thank all across the 12volt industry for their support, encouragement and business in 2025 as we continue to work each day to showcase positives across the 12volt industry.

The year 2025 continued to be an uncertain time in the world and 12volt industry with so many changing factors in play. In many cases inventory supply issues continued in 2025 but tariffs and high inflation continued to impact consumer spending on non-essentials. Increases in online spending continues to impact the brick and mortar 12volt marketplace as well. Black Friday and Cyber Monday online sales again reached record levels.

The Christmas tree is up in the 12volt Central Studios. From the 12volt Central Studios, we encourage all to evaluate their situation and play to their strengths. Build on your company’s strengths and highlight the positives in your every day activities. Play the In-Store Experience and Professional Installation cards everyday. Manufacturers, Distributors, Rep Firms and Retailers alike must work to inform and connect to showcase our industry’s products to consumers. Consumers must be informed about our products and the positive ways those products can add to their in-vehicle safety and enjoyment experiences.

Let’s all work to make a bigger pie for all to share across the 12volt industry.

We look forward to continuing to showcase positives from companies across the 12volt industry in 2026 and beyond.

Kingdon Audio Utilizes PowerBass Graphics To Make Social Media Posts

ABILENE, TX (12.23.25) – Kingdom Audio is a proactive 12volt retailer in Abilene, TX. Willie Johnston and Drew Whitten are industry veterans driving business in the 12volt industry along with automotive services.

Drew Whitten (L) and Willie Johnston picture in front of Kingdom Audio in Abilene, TX.

12volt Central Studios staff members noticed terrific posts that the company is making with PowerBass products which prompted a call to the company. In a call with Drew Whitten he indicated that the way to reach consumers today is social media and not through radio and TV channels. The striking posts utilized graphics of products available from PowerBass and the company created the graphics and added in their logo and contact information.

“All members of the 12volt industry definitely need to work together and utilize all the tools available to let consumers know what we offer to max the safety and enjoyment in their rides” Whitten stated.

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP, related “We provide the logos and images of products for all of our dealers in our dropbox. It’s terrific to see retailers, like Kingdom Audio, utilizing those tools for visibility and to drive business locally.

Kingdom Audio and Whitten Automotive are family owned businesses rooted in the Abilene TX community. The companies prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to exceed expectations from each service. The company also utilizes resources from
other vendors to create social media posts.

Stay tuned for more.

Contact whitten2auto@yahoo.com for more.