YORKVILLE, IL (05.15.2020) – Max Fahlmark launches Fahlmarketing & Associates, a new age rep firm currently targeting the Illinois and Wisconsin territory. Fahlmarketing & Associates is a Manufacturers Sale Representative Firm servicing the Car Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics channels.

Max Fahlmark, Principal, is not your typical sales rep. He is a Gen Z and brings the perspective of the largest consumer group to the company. “As of 2019, Gen-Zers outnumbered Millennials and Baby Boomers as the largest generation globally with 2.47 billion people, and it is important for businesses to target and properly communicate to this powerful buying group in places and in ways that make sense to them” said Max Fahlmark. Gen-Zers are digital pioneers and that principal has been woven into the DNA of Fahlmarketing & Associates. Fahlmarketing & Associates is paperless. Dealers and Distributors will complete and sign all paperwork electronically. Mr. Fahlmark will introduce his customers to the latest technologies and encourage them to use them in their businesses. Max Fahlmark drives a Tesla because it is better for the environment and demonstrates that “environmentally friendly” can be cool and customized.

Max Fahlmark, principal, brings years of experience to the firm. Max has been mentored by his dad, Steve Fahlmark, a Manufacturer Sales Rep for over 25 years. Max worked for his dad’s firm for 7 years. He learned the inner workings of a Manufacturers Rep Firm and the necessary skills to be successful. He was inspired by his dad’s passion and energy for the business and that led him to become an entrepreneur and start his own firm. Fahlmark’s love of music has also played a role in his decision. Max Fahlmark said, “being a professional musician has not only given me the determination and focus but has also taught me what is missing in the Pro Audio market.”

Fahlmarketing and Associates will bring a new perspective and a new way of doing business to the manufacturers, industries and customers it services. Technology is integrated at every touch point, which will bring efficiencies and improved ways of conducting business as a rep firm. Manufacturers, dealers, distributors, and consumers get a partner that is experienced but offers the perspective of a youthful mind. Fahlmarketing and Associates is immersed in the Mobile Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics markets and has its finger on the pulse of the latest trends and technologies. The firm will provide its dealers and distributors access to all manufacturing assets and guide them how to use them digitally to drive business.

Fahlmarketing and Associates currently represents Aunex and Stage Clicks in Illinois and Wisconsin. Steven Bach, President of Aunex, Inc. said, “I am extremely excited to have Max Fahlmark on board. Within the first months Max has already signed on direct dealers and a distributor. Max has shown a great level of determination and professionalism. We are definitely looking forward to this New Age Rep Agency to help promote our products for many years to come.”

Fahlmarketing and Associates is accepting interviews for professional representation of key manufacturers in Car Technology, Pro Audio and Consumer Electronics. While currently focused on Wisconsin and Illinois, Fahlmarketing and Associates will be expanding in the future.

For Further Info:
Contact: Max Fahlmark
Email: fahlmarketing@gmail.com

MODESTO, CA (05.14.2020) – Longtime industry veteran George Jenkins joins ARPA of America as President.

ARPA of America was formed by a group of investors in January 2020 to bring only the finest of audio products to the US, beginning with Audio Wave, Dynaudio, ESB speakers, Tchernov Cables, and Zapco Car Audio.  As President of ARPA, George will be responsible for charting the course of the company as the business expands, bringing in new lines, new products and new dealers.

George Jenkins began working with audio manufacturers as a sales rep in Italy in the ‘70s and has since managed international sales for such companies as Bose, Boston Acoustics, Stillwater/Kicker, and most recently held the position of VP of International Sales at JL Audio.

“George was an obvious choice for us, and we were lucky to find him available. He brings a vast wealth of experience to the company and over the years he has worked with virtually everyone involved with this project. His years of international experience has given him exposure to the types of products ARPA of America wants to be involved with, as well as an intimate understanding of what the high-end car audio dealer needs from a product and from a distributor.” says Vincenzo Biasella of the investor group

George Jenkins said, “As you know, there will always be people who will enjoy music at its best with no compromise.  ARPA is a company that has assembled a group of exceptional brands in order to ensure the ultimate sound performance and I am excited about this new challenge.”  Our Car Audio industry is under continued pressure for innovation and in need of new and exciting developments. With new technology applied to old world craftsmanship, there is no limit to where we can take audio reproduction.  Being a veteran of this industry, and with the ARPA team’s help, I will tap into my past experience in the audio world and I look forward to working with an elite group of retailers who share our same passion and enthusiasm for sound.”

“George brings an unparalleled commitment to our industry.” says national sales manager Scott Welch, “coupled with his extensive knowledge in all aspects of the audio world. We all look forward to working with George to create a unique and evolving business model for distribution of exclusive top tier products and services to exclusive top tier dealers.”

Contacts:

President – George@arpaofamerica.com
Sales – Scott@arpaofamerica.com
Marketing / Support – John@arpaofamerica.com

Visit arpaofamerica.com for more.

AUBURN HILLS, MI (05.13.2020) – Just 25 minutes outside of the heart of Dallas sits The Stereo Shop, a mobile electronics retailer and installer that has serviced the Garland, Texas community for 10 years (formerly under the name JM Kuztomz).

Like most 12Volt retailers during the COVID-19 environment, owner Julio Murillo has had to think out-of-the-box in light of the recent “shelter in place” orders.

“When COVID-19 happened, I thought, ‘If we’re going to shut down for a few weeks, then I’m finally going to update the store,’” Murillo recalled.

Murillo, an Alpine Authorized Retailer of three years, contacted his Alpine team, including rep Mark Sartain, to begin work on a $12,000 update to the shop.

“Alpine is their biggest consumer draw and their highest premium line,” explained Sartain. “They see a big value in the local and national support they are receiving from Alpine.”  

The focus was on the main display board in their lobby, previously occupied by a different brand. In its place, stands a larger-than-life display, spotlighting the Alpine Halo9 9-inch displays, as well as speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers from Alpine S, R, and X-Series lineup. 

The Stereo Shop was able to reopen, as they have a minor mechanical permit that deems them as an essential business (although they are still taking safety precautions by doing most installations through drop-offs and maintain social distancing standards.)

Not shortly after he reopened, Murillo started to see the fruits of his labor, particularly with the main display board. 

“The first day, we set up a Halo9 display in the showroom with the Alpine branding. The second day, after we opened, we sold three [Alpine Halo9s],” said Murillo. “We were already selling this product fairly well, but three on the first day was crazy!”

In addition to the main display board, The Stereo Shop now has three dedicated Alpine displays in the store that include an OEM Integration Display, a dedicated S-Series display (their highest selling product, according to Sartain) and an R and X-Series display. 

“Alpine is a sound quality company, so naturally, having functional displays that can be used to allow their consumers to experience the products helps the consumers make a faster emotional connection,” Sartain explained. “Consumers come to their store to hear, touch and feel the products. The displays empower the salespeople because they can demonstrate the products to the consumer.”

Murillo explains the value of a display that can show the customer the head unit and speaker together, claiming it’s a lot easier to sell when they can sell the entire package.

“Display the functioning products; not products in a showcase or a box,” said Murillo. “When the product is on a display, where people can touch it, feel it, and know how it works – that’s half the sale!”

However, Murillo’s sales efforts didn’t stop at the shop door. The Stereo Shop is also active on their social media platforms, like Facebook, often posting installation jobs up to 10 times per day.

Murillo attributes Facebook as the root of 50% of their walk-ins. Recently, he’s noticed his clientele are coming from 1 – 2 hours away, as Facebook is helping them reach customers that are looking for a shop that sells Alpine and speaks Spanish (the Alpine brand is well-known to Hispanic customers, according to Murillo).

Murillo also adopted a new way to share the products in his store. Instead of posting a product, or taking a picture of the box, Murillo has started to show pictures of completed installation jobs, highlighting the features of each product.

This more personalized approach to “selling” Alpine products has boosted The Stereo Shops engagement rate, as they receive more inquiries from their Facebook page.

“We’re not trying to sell the product through Facebook; we show the product installed in a car and talk about the features,” explained Murillo.  “When the customer can see the head unit and speakers installed in the car, they can relate to the product because they might have the same car.”

Murillo’s advice to fellow mobile electronics retailers would be to stay safe and offer drop-off services for customers, making sure that every car is cleaned before returned. If possible, he suggested investing in loaner cars to provide to customers 

“Our shop has three loaner cars for customers to use during installation,” said Murillo. “That way, there is no pressure for the customer waiting to get their car back.”

He also urges others to increase up their social media presence, explaining that people are on social media more than ever before.

While adhering to the CDC guidelines, Sartain recommends getting more attention to your store through social media.

“On social media, promote a no-touch transaction with your customers to show that the store cares about both your consumers and your employees,” Sartain advised. “Focus on keeping the purchase process easy and fast.”

Even now, as more shops are beginning to reopen, it is essential to have a plan of attack when returning to work, including new marketing strategies, adhering to CDC guidelines, and establishing better communication with the consumer.

Alpine encourages its Authorized Dealers to reach out if they need assistance before or during the process of reopening.

Visit alpine-usa.com for more.

CENTEREACH, NY (05.11.2020) – Sound Trax, celebrating 29 years in Long Island NY, is set for a strong reopening. A soft reopening is set for today, Monday May 11th. Sound Trax is prepared to “Get Their Shine On.”

Len Romano, company owner, related to 12volt News “The future is far more challenging following the COVID19 National Emergency. Our company, and 12volt retailers, must be prepared to charge ahead at full force. The time to pay attention to detail is more important now than it has ever been.”

Sound Trax closed their store on March 20th as the Coronavirus spread rapidly across the New York City and surrounding areas. During the downtime a number of large jobs were completed at area marinas.

Continuing, Romano stated “My team and I are ready to get back to work. We have taken the additional safety steps necessary to protect everyone from the potential of COVID-19 as recommended by the CDC and health professionals. The public will understand we are all concerned for their safety as well as our own”.

As customers enter Sound Trax they see the large sign at the front door noting the precautions the company has taken for their safety. Sound Trax has a mask policy for all in the store. Social distancing indicators are on the floor along with red tape markers. Large counter shields are in place. In the installation bay a rolling cart is setup with cleaning and sanitizing supplies.

“Clean, well organized and stocked stores are the future. Consumers are not going to frequent a store where they feel compromised and certainly not one that is lacking a knowledgable staff along with consideration and respect for one another” Romano added.

Sound Trax is located in a free-standing building along a busy thoroughfare in Centereach. People driving that route will notice the parking lot was resurfaced during the company’s downtime. Also, as part of the soft reopening an amazing new demo truck, along with UTV’s, will be parked in front of the store to grab attention.

The 12volt News looks forward to showcasing Sound Trax’s soft reopening. Sound Trax is definitely working to create a terrific in-store experience and “Get Their Shine On” for consumers in the area. 

Visit lisoundtrax.com for more.

SHREVEPORT LA (05.09.20)  WTF…Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. Five months ago we celebrated the first anniversary of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.

The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 75, is Markland Designs in Atlanta GA. The Wheel landed on the JBL space Friday morning May 8th. A  JBL Clip3 will be headed to Markland Designs.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, NavAtlas, SiriusXM, Cadence, PowerBass, Sony, CRUX, DS18, SoundStream, AIS, Precision Power, JBL, Power Acoustik, Farenheit and Image Dynamics. 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.

Past winners of the 12volt Spin-To-Win include…Stereo & Video Center-Tyler TX, The Outlaw Garage-Franklin TN, Exotic Sounds-West Palm Beach FL, Endless Possibilities-Aurora IL., Go Auto Sound in Union City NJ, Al&Ed’s South Bay CA, No Limitz Car Audio in Upland CA, Neil’s Specialty-Eureka CA, Sturgess Customs-Lexington SC, Audio By Art-San Antonio TX, SMS Car Audio in Marreo LA and Sweet Wheelz in Mississauga Ontario Canada, Cartronics in Biscayne FL, The CarAudio Shop in St Louis MO, Exotic Sounds in West Palm Beach FL, High North Customs in Grand Prairie Alberta Canada and AMS Audio in Bakersfield CA, Team QRT in Abbeyville LA and California Sound in Fontana CA and Jackie Cooper Electronics, Oklahoma City OK, MARS Audio-Orlando FL, All American Audio in Nutley NJ, Proline Car Stereo in Brooklyn NY, Custom Shop Miami, Tunes and Tint in Lakeland FL, Mobile Concepts Inc in Mokena IL, Seismic Auto Sound in Concord CA, Brooklyn Car Audio in Brooklyn NY, Audio Solutions in Florence MS, Enhanced Customs in Largo FL, Rayco Auto Clinic, Audio Design in San Jose CA, Go Bass Mode in Florida, Avenue Sound in Freeport NY, Audio Plus in Riverview FL, Stereo Zone in Whittier CA, In-Phase Car Audio in Omaha NE, AutoLife Group, N&H Electronics, SK Customs, Land & Sea, The Audio One, NC Custom Shop,Tint World Orlando, Ricky Smith’s Audio, VIP Custom Woks, Mobile Audio Concepts, Audio Lad, Sound Sensations, Dave’s Stereo, Stereo Design, Badlands Customs, Custom Audio-Erie PA, Voltz Autosports-Bridgeport CT, Infinity Sound and Security-Kissimmee, Autosport Plus-Canton OH, Stereo City Pros in Carmichael CA, Devine Concepts in Naples FL, The Sound Shop in Indian Trail NC, Extreme Performance Audio in Fresno CA, Audio Depot in Arlington TX, Audio Security in Houston TX, Earmark Car Audio and Marine in Lewisville TX, Audio Jam in Bear DE, Stereo City Ontario, Ontario CA, Audio By Art, San Antonio TX, Code Zero Customs in Tulsa OK, Ken’s Car Tunes in Mobile AL and Soundz Plus in Naperville IL. Congratulations to all.

WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, May 15th.

Want to enter for future spins? It’s easy – when making an Instagram post for your store include the hashtag #12voltspin to make sure your company has a slip in the jar. There are over 1100 #12voltspin posts on Instagram.  

With 18 chances to WIN, the 12Volt Spin-To-Win Wheel is ready to shower a lucky weekly winner with one of the cool prizes.

Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!

LONG BEACH, CA (05.06.2020) – JVC Mobile Entertainment is pleased to announce the release of 2 new wireless enabled multimedia receivers; the KW-V960BW (MAP $699.95) and the KW-M865BW (MAP $599.95), as well as 2 new wired Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto ready multimedia receivers;  the KW-M560BT (MAP $299.95), and KW-M56BT (MAP $299.95).

Originally debuted at CES, the KW-V960BW and KW-M865BW now include 4 camera inputs, USB screen mirroring for both Android and iPhone, LDAC technology allowing Hi-Res Audio to be transferred wirelessly, a newly designed graphic user interface with music synchronizing Live Wallpaper, and continued K2 sound technology.  Both receivers also expand upon their iDatalink Maestro RR support for best-in-class OEM vehicle integration and enhanced driver safety.  

The KW-M560BT and KW-M56BT both sport a 6.8” WVGA clear glass capacitive touch panel with swipe functionality for superior touch control and greater accuracy.  Their DVD-less design allows them to have a mounting depth of under 3” for ease of installation.   Both receivers include JVC’s exclusive Gesture Touch Control, which allows a user to move a finger over the screen for various operations such as volume adjustment and track selection, all while keeping their eyes safely on the road.

Smartphone integration highlights are not limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the KW-M560BT and KW-M56BT, but also include 1.5 Amp High Current Charging to rapidly charge a smartphone.  Android specific features for these models also include Bluetooth Automatic Phone Pairing upon a USB connection, as well as, Screen Mirroring via the “Mirroring for JVC OA” application.

Sound is optimized and customizable on the KW-M560BT and KW-M56BT with advanced DSP controls, along with Front, Rear, and Subwoofer RCA Pre-outs so that users can easily add amplifiers to power speakers and subwoofers. All of the most popular audio formats are accepted, including FLAC, AAC, WAV, MP3, and WMA.   

Video integration on both the KW-M560BT and KW-M56BT includes the ability to add an optional reverse camera like the JVC KV-CM30, which features a waterproof design and a ¼” color CMOS sensor for clarity when backing up.  A secondary monitor for rear-seat entertainment can also be added by connecting to the receiver’s video output.  Users may also choose to connect another video device to the receiver’s AV input. 

To gain a better in-car entertainment experience, these 4 models also come equipped with the connection for an optional SiriusXM tuner, (SiriusXM Connect SXV300 satellite radio tuner required; sold separately), which enables album artwork and a variety of text information to be displayed from hundreds of channels of music, news, sports, talk, and more. 

“The release of these 4 multimedia receivers position our dealers to offer attractive features at price points that consumers are looking for,” said Ron Trout, JVC Director of Sales.  “With exclusive JVC features like Gesture Touch Control and Optimized Sound Quality, we couldn’t be happier with the ease of use and performance of these new receivers.” 

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