TEMPE, AZ (2.10.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is shaping up to be its biggest and most impactful year yet, proudly announcing a completely sold-out show floor and expanded hotel partnerships to accommodate record attendance. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.
“With exhibit space officially sold out, attendees can expect an elevated show floor experience featuring a top-tier mix of technology innovators, fabrication leaders, and major audio manufacturers, creating one of the most diverse and hands-on learning environments in the industry,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “Selling out our exhibit space is a huge milestone. It allows us to curate a higher-quality experience for attendees — more brands, better education, and better connections across every segment of the industry.”
Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.
PRESCOTT VALLEY, AZ (02.09.26) – The Findlay Toyota Center was Livin’Loud with action on Friday night February 6th for Round 9 of the AMA KICKER ArenaCross ’25-’26 Pro Schedule. The arena area was reconfigured from a hockey rink to a dirt track with mound after mound riders had to navigate as they made their way around the track.
Once the track opened riders cranked up their bikes and made their ways around the very difficult track circuit where the dirt mounds were barely 15 feet apart. Many of the riders were able to fly over one mound and land on the downside of the next mound. Some riders didn’t have smooth landings and had to adjust their body parts before continuing the race.
On Thursday, they were working on getting the track prepared for the event.
On Friday, the action was underway.
KICKER had a booth set up in the lobby with a wide selection of products set up on tables under the tent. AMA Arenacross attendees are definitely interested in audio products as many enjoy motorcycle, PowerSport, Lifestyle and/or marine activities in addition to their everyday drives.
Before the doors opened, Lorin Morrell had the Kicker booth set.
KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s RZR trackside was loaded with 4 KMXL65s, 2 KMB8d, 2 KMXL8s and 2 Premium marine 10”. woofers. The ride rocked in demos.
Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media relayed “In the Prescott Valley area there are a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities. PowerBars for side-by-sides and marine installs plus under seat truck boxes and Harley setups grabbed a lot of interest in the KICKER booth. Attendees checked out live demos on the RZR next to the booth plus KICKER Ambassador Sam Law’s loaded RZR trackside. Also many trailers are now being upgraded with audio and KICKER offers many options.”
Lorin Morrell presented this lucky T-shirt toss winner her Bullfrog prize and KICKER T-shirt.
“This AMA KICKER Arenacross season continues with events in Reno NV, Guthrie OK and in Daytone Beach. Across the U.S. attendance has been strong this year with attendees engaging with KICKER’s wide selection of products” Morrell concluded.
SHREVEPORT, LA (02.09.26) – The 12volt Central Studios offers multiple ways for 12volt industry members to connect across the 12volt community and with consumers while delivering fresh industry news. The 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball is the latest way. The 12voltSTP Tool, Custom QR Codes and 12volt Central Studios offer easy to use opportunities to connect with industry members and consumers. A SMARTPHONE is all it takes….318 469 2526 IS THE NUMBER!
An industry member can hold a product in their office, snap an image, and we can put them in their custom studio. That can get their 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play.
In-person trade shows, consumer and distributor shows are terrific venues to connect and show new products in one-on-one settings. Tradeshow and distributor show attendance over the last years has diminished. The 12volt Central Studios can put a company in their own custom studio utilizing the 12voltSTP Tool and deliver their message to the 12volt industry with the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members must realize successful marketing is a 24/7 journey.
In today’s AI driven digital and social media world it is more important than ever for members of the 12volt industry to connect with industry members and consumers. These activities are more important than ever to drive in-vehicle automotive upgrade awareness and business for brick and mortar retailers. Consumers can’t feel the bass in their chest or appreciate the separation of mid-range and highs on a smartphone or laptop. The in-store experience is more important than ever!
A 12volt industry member can be out a show trade show, consumer show or a rep on the road calling calling on dealers. With the 12voltSTP Tool all it takes is for that industry member to snap and txt and Image, with a few words, to 318-469-2526 and we can put the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play showcasing your activities.
Custom QR Codes are also available for industry members. Scan this QR Code to see the latest industry news.
METAIRIE, LA (01.09.26) — ORACLE Lighting continues to advance automotive interior customization with the release of its most comprehensive lighting system to date: the Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit. This premium, full-cabin LED illumination system delivers unmatched versatility, dynamic lighting effects, and refined ambient light across dashboards, door panels, footwells, door handles, and storage zones for virtually any vehicle.
Built on ORACLE’s innovative Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ technology, this universal kit transforms the interior environment by enabling full-spectrum color shifts, synchronized multi-zone lighting, and customizable effects that enhance both aesthetic appeal and nighttime usability. Whether used to create a subtle ambient glow or bold animated lighting patterns, this solution reimagines interior lighting for drivers, enthusiasts, and automotive builders seeking a modern, immersive cabin experience.
“We designed this all-in-one LED system to meet the rising demand for premium interior lighting that’s intuitive, expressive, and adaptable to any build,” said a spokesperson for ORACLE Lighting. “With complete cabin coverage, multi-zone control, and a universal fit, this kit offers both visual impact and functional illumination — bringing a new dimension to how vehicle owners personalize their interiors.”
Key Features & Benefits
Full-Cabin Coverage: Comprehensive 18-piece LED ensemble with strips and accent pods engineered to illuminate dashboards, door panels, footwells, pockets, and door handles.
Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ Technology: Delivers smooth, seamless transitions across a full color spectrum, with customizable lighting modes and effects to match any mood or style.
Advanced Multi-Zone Control: Includes one main controller and four sub-controllers with five dynamic relays to maintain consistent performance across lighting zones.
Flexible Activation: Control lighting via an integrated switch button or Bluetooth-enabled interface for convenient mode selection.
Universal Application: Purpose-built for easy installation in a wide range of vehicles without model-specific modifications, offering enthusiasts and custom builders maximum flexibility.
Complete Kit: Includes LED strips (36″, four 30″, one 8″), footwell pod emitters, pocket and storage LEDs, door handle accents, controllers, relays, wiring harnesses, and a splitter for plug-and-play setup.
This dynamic interior system enhances both ambiance and functionality, improving visibility after dark while delivering an elevated, professional-grade lighting experience far beyond standard interior lighting solutions.
Availability
The Dynamic ColorSHIFT™ 18-Piece Universal Full LED Interior Dash Kit is now available for purchase through the ORACLE Lighting online store. For detailed product information, installation resources, and high-resolution visuals, visit www.oraclelights.com.
12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (02.07.26) 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 7.
The 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel rolled for the 355th time on Friday morning on February 6th. The Wheel landed on the RDV space and the 589 Kustoms slip was drawn from the jar. An Instagram post of the winning spin slip was posted. A video of the Wheel spin was also posted.
We reached out to the winning retailer in Sonora CA and they were very happy to hear the news and learn that Rich will be sending the RDV prize to Shane Costa next week. We know that Shane will enjoy the RDV prize!
Spinning out a winner each Friday, a lucky 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the 12volt industry.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, RDV, PowerBass, CRUX, JB, EBS Audio, King Boxes, Massive Audio, Q Power and VIPER. 12volt News and 12voltBeat $100. cash awards also have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for the 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, Audio Electronics in Indianapolis IN, Tint and Sound in Frederick MD, Tint World Wilmington DE, VIP Autoworks in Mentor OH, All Out Audio in Killeen TX, Yong’s Audio in Indianapolis IN, Custom Audio Concepts in Lima OH, Clear Vibrations in Quakertown PA, The Outlaw Garage in Columbia TN, Xpert Car Audio in Layton UT, No Doubt Window Tint in Ardmore OK, San Diego Car Stereo in San Diego CA, Smart Audio in Lawrence MA, Car Audio One in Chula Vista CA, Audio Excellence in Orlando FL, Ultimate Sounds 1 in Wilmington NC, King Kong Custom Audio in Albuquerque NM. Manny’s Customs in Stockton CA, OD Car Audio in Pasco WA, Car Tunes on Line in Largo FL, INOV8 Audio in Houston TX, Kartel Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, Pro Auto Sound in Hialeah FL Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Fabulous Auto Alarms in Passaic NJ, Jimmy_Sound_System in Lawrence MA, American Audio Concepts in Houston TX, Arias Tint and Alarm in Duncanville TX, Big Papas Car Audio in Cincinnati OH, Houston Audio Lab in Houston TX, 901 Sound in Memphis TN, Kurtz Car Stereo in Traverse City MI, Sound By Stephen, Music In Motion in Alsip IL, Current Automotive Design in Sparta NJ, Prestige Sounds in Pompano Beach FL, Mobile AVC in Brunswick ME, Telza Audio in Columbia SC, Limelight Automotive in Webster NY, Victory Lap Auto Restyling East Moline IL, Unique Audio VA in Lorton VA, Builds by Paul in Litchfield AZ, Voodoo Customs in Haltom City TX, Elevated Design in Phoenix AZ, Mobilework/Tintworks in Santa Maria CA, Nappo Car Audio in Houston, Platinum Car Audio in Washington, Ballistic Audiowerks in Smithsburg MD, Xteme-Car Audio in Bremerton WA, Beltline Motors in Decatur AL, Ultimate Sounds in Chattanooga TN, Santa Fe Auto Sound in Overland Park KS, Soundelux Car Audio in Chula Vista CA, Kartele Mobile Electronics in Waterbury CT, BK Audio in Pasco WA, CenCal Audio in Madura CA, Xtreme Auto Sound in Louisville KY, Victorylap Auto Styling in East Moline IL, Car Trendz in Alexandria VA, BLVD Customs in Lakeland FL, Audio Systems in Montclair CA, Fitment_nyc_shop in Jamaica NY, King Audio in Norwalk CT. Foss Audio in Tukwila WA, OG Car Audio in Kissimmee FL, Tint and Tunes in Sacramento CA, Dr Dashboard in Evansville IN, The Sound Shop in Chino CA, Extreme Concepts in Albertville AL,The-King of Custom in Longwood FL, Car Audio Depot in Modesto CA and Audio Dreams in Acworth GA, PCH Custom Audio in Long Beach CA, Crazy Ralph’s Car Stereo in Gonzales LA, Joe’s Cycle Therapy in Somerset MA, Cal Custom Audio in Tracy CA, NWA Audio in Bentonville AR, XT Audio in Miami, Tim’s Audio in Newport OR, Build’s By Paul in Litchfield AZ, DAW Discount Audio in Paramount CA and M12 Audio in Bluefield WVA, Jam City Pros in Caddo Mills TX, Finishline Shop in Lumberton NJ, Genuine Custom Audio in Riverside CA,Ballistic Autowerks in Hagerstown MD, Jeff’s Custom Car Audio in Royce TX, Pitbull’s in Houston, Aspen Sound in North Spokane WA, CP Designs in Jarrell TX and D&B Sales in Ft Wayne IN, Precision Custom Audio in Riverview FL, The King of Custom, Active Sound in NC, Car Stereo Plus in Sumter SC, Audioworks DE in Newark DE, Active Sounds in NC Speed Car Audio in Dallas, Voodoo Customs in Luling LA, BK Customs 616 in Grand Rapids MI, TPD HiFI in Broken Bow OK, HiFi Crusin’ in Hattiesburg MS, Superior Audio Sounds in San Angelo TX Intense Kustom Audio in Brentwod NY, California Audio in West Valley UT, H A Ross Entertainment, Voodoo Customs in Haltom TX, Absolutely Creative Customs in Boulder CO, Mobile Sound in Temecula CA, Redline Auto Sports in Hicksville NY, Sparked Innovations in Knoxville TN, Boosted Build in Warrenton OR, Prodigy Car Audio iManteca CA, Snow’s Auto in Spokane WA and PMC Customs, White Oak PA, InTune in Redmond OR, Tint Wrap Audio Guys in Fresno CA, Ultimate Sounds and Tinting in Chattanooga TN, MetJoe Auto Electronics in Kenilworth NJ, Pyramid Customs in Fort Worth TX, California Audio in Salt Lake Valley City UT, Sinewave in Grayslake IL, Team Nutz in Pittsburg PA and 3P Off Road in Tomball TX, Next Level Audio in Cadallic MI and Sound Master in Roswell GA and JA Electronics in Florida City FL, Island Audio and JRS_Security and Heath Moore Interiors.
Congratulations to all.
WTF……Win This Friday……See the next 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel on Friday, February 13th.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (2.6.26) – The automotive performance world mourns the loss of a titan. Ed “Isky” Iskenderian, the legendary engine builder known globally as “The Camfather” and the first President (a role equivalent to today’s Chairman) of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), has passed away at the age of 104.
Iskenderian was the last surviving founding member of the group that established SEMA in 1963. At its inception, SEMA was an all-volunteer organization; Iskenderian and his fellow founders took on the task of organizing the industry in addition to running their own burgeoning businesses. This selfless dedication transformed a hobby into a professional, $52 billion global industry.
Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of SEMA and PRI, issued the following statement: “Today, the automotive world lost its North Star. Ed Iskenderian was not just a founder of SEMA; he was the soul of it. As our first President, he turned a hobby into an industry. He and the original founders were volunteers who recognized — at the height of their own careers — that our industry needed a unified voice to survive and grow.
“Long before there were data logs and computer modeling, there was Ed — a man with a slide rule, a cigar, and an uncanny ability to find power where others found limits. While we mourn the loss of ‘The Camfather,’ we celebrate a century of a life lived at full throttle. We are all driving in the tracks he laid down as a volunteer leader over 60 years ago.”
Under Iskenderian’s early leadership, SEMA was founded to provide a unified voice for manufacturers during a time of rapid growth and increasing regulatory scrutiny. His ability to unite competitors for the greater good of the industry remains the cornerstone of the Association’s mission today.
TEMPE, AZ (2.6.26) – MasterTech Expo 2026 is proud to announce it has added world-class designer Ben Hermance to this year’s educational lineup, joining the MasterTech Expo faculty to lead Master Design Training – Session 1, a focused program centered on advanced professional 3D rendering and design workflow for automotive design and custom builds. MasterTech Expo 2026 is scheduled March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ.
“Ben brings to MasterTech his renowned experience working with industry-leading builders, fabrication shops, and global aftermarket brands, blending artistic creativity with real-world engineering and production design,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “This new training track gives attendees rare insight into professional-level vehicle concept development, digital design strategy, and turning ideas into build-ready reality.”
Hermance has worked and designed with everyone from top industry builders to fab, paint, and interior shops, plus major aftermarket corporations across the globe. Whether it’s a heartfelt portrait gift, a wild hot concept, or a full-blown high-budget custom ride, Ben brings the same passion and precision to every project.
“If you’re into next-level custom design, smart engineering, and turning ideas into jaw-dropping reality, you won’t want to miss this opportunity…only at MasterTech Expo,” Schmitt concluded.
Due to overwhelming demand, the MasterTech Expo host hotel has officially sold out. To support the growing attendee base, new hotel partners and room blocks have been secured, offering convenient options close to the venue. Attendees are encouraged to book early as availability continues to move quickly.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (2.5.26) – MB Quart Q Speakers are German-built and unleash higher quality sound in every aspect and detail of audio. Superior sound meets dynamic playback that sets the bar for any song. The QSE-216 Q Series 6.5-inch 2-way component speaker system features 1-inch Military A-Spec Titanium dome tweeters with Butyl rubber surrounds in a cast-aluminum housing, and innovative cone materials with lightweight mica-filled poly blend.
Balanced Temperature Technology (BTT) is used through every component in the Q Speaker system as a diecast aluminum basket frame is designed to be lightweight and extremely rigid as the low-profile form can be easily installed in most factory locations with little or no modification required. Embrace every feature that redefines your speaker gains to the Q LEVEL of performance with Q speakers.
BOCA RATON, FL (2.5.26) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is reflecting on a year of strong momentum and meaningful growth in 2025. Driven by standout franchisee performance, strategic investments and partnerships, an enhanced marketing strategy, and the launch of its online booking platform, the brand strengthened its presence in local markets while streamlining the customer experience. Building on that momentum, Tint World is already seeing continued success in 2026, earning the #1 ranking in the Window Tinting category and #206 overall in the 2026 Franchise 500®, climbing 24 spots from last year and reinforcing its position as an industry leader.
This was also the brand’s first year crossing the $100M mark in Store Revenue, signaling a powerful year of accelerated growth and expanding market impact.
“As we move into 2026, our priority is to continue building a franchise system that empowers entrepreneurs and delivers an exceptional experience for our customers. We plan to build off last year’s momentum through a focused strategy centered on technology, training, and targeted marketing,” said Charles Bonfiglio, Founder and CEO of Tint World. “We’re committed to giving our owners the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow, and that commitment is what drives every decision we make.”
In 2026, the brand has a goal of awarding 85 new franchises, opening more than 50 additional locations, and expanding its store conversion program, which offers independent automotive shop owners a streamlined path to enhanced scalability and brand support.
Courtesy of Tint World
Strong and Steady Franchise Development
Tint World signed 39 Franchise Agreements with 56 stores actively in development going into 2026. Additionally, the brand opened ten stores in 2025:
Albuquerque, NM Carmel, IN Cincinnati-Newtown, OH Cypress, TX Denton, TX Edison, NJ Marina Del Rey, CA Ocala, FL Pantego, TX Torrance, CA
Strategic Investments and Partnerships
In 2025, the brand announced a strategic investment from Susquehanna Growth Equity (“SGE”), an entrepreneur-centric growth equity firm. This investment marks Tint World’s first institutional capital, which will be used to enhance operational support, accelerate franchise development, and further solidify the brand’s leading position in the automotive aftermarket industry.
Tint World also announced a preferred partnership agreement with Oracle Lighting, a leading provider of quality, innovative lighting solutions. Through this collaboration, franchisees gained streamlined access to over 25 years of design and development expertise, allowing consistency across the system.
Tint World Introduces Online Booking Platform
The brand introduced its online booking platform, allowing users to browse services, view availability, and secure appointments directly from their desktop or mobile device. For franchisees, the platform provides a modern, automated scheduling tool that improves workflow, reduces administrative time, and helps capture more leads from digital channels. By offering a seamless, user-friendly experience, the online booking platform supports both customer satisfaction and franchise growth, reinforcing Tint World’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence. By allowing customers to browse services, check availability, and book appointments at any time, franchisees capture more leads without relying on phone calls or manual scheduling.
Awards and Executive Growth
In April 2025, Jonathan Norman was promoted to company President. The appointment of Norman, who also continues to serve as Chief Investment Officer, laid the groundwork for strategic direction across both operations and investment as the company enters a new era of growth and global expansion.
In addition to appointing Norman to the role of brand president, Tint World was recognized by Entrepreneur in its Franchise 500 list, as well as the prestigious INC. 5000 list. Additionally, franchisees Alex and Myriam Guerrero, owners of Tint World El Paso, were identified by the International Franchise Association (IFA) as a Franchise of the Year.
Looking Ahead
Going forward, new owner training programs will be in partnership with XPEL in San Antonio, ensuring franchisees receive advanced, industry‑leading instruction. Additionally, the brand plans to roll out new kiosk software that will expedite out-of-store appointments and bookings.
ITASCA, IL (2.5.26) – Lucas Lighting is pleased to share a significant milestone in dealer support. With the February 2nd update to their bulb finder tool, dealers now have installation difficulty ratings to more than 99% of vehicles sold in the US and Canada since model year 2000. Coverage for Mexico is approximately 90%. All brands of American, Asian and European cars, SUV’s and trucks are included with exception of exotics (Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Pagani, etc.). In the fall, links to all vehicles with headlight ratings by IIHS (beginning model year 2016) were added, allowing for a more meaningful customer engagement.
The Lucas Lighting ‘Bulb Finder Tool’ attracted a lot of interest in the Booth at KnowledgeFest in Vegas.
Steve Rogers of Lucas stated, “When we began this project, we knew it was going to be a lot of work. The thousands of hours we have invested is reflective of our commitment to helping our dealers succeed in the lighting category. The only remaining obstacle for a new dealer when he executes our mantra of asking “do you ever wish you could see better at night?” is how to quote and book the job. But when you are new, how do you know how long the installation is going to take? We have rated these vehicles with a rating of 1 through 5, 1 being the easiest requiring 15 minutes or less. If you get all the way up to a 5, it would typically require 2-3 hours for the bumper either to be pulled back or completely removed to access the bulbs. With this information and our notes, the dealer can now quote the job and schedule it properly.”
Upcoming goals for Lucas Lighting are to extend the difficulty ratings back to 1978, when modern replaceable bulbs first became available for motorcycles. Snowmobile, side-by-side and motorcycle ratings are also a top priority. “Our expectation is that we can complete the next set of tasks by June of this year,” added Rogers.
12VoltNews.com 