DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.13.23) – The automotive aftermarket is evolving—from vehicle trends to shifts in consumer spending to new vehicle technology. As the automotive specialty-equipment market enters 2023, companies need to be informed on what to expect in the new year and beyond to make the best decisions for their business.
Set to be released on January 26, the new “2023 SEMA Future Trends Report” will give members thorough insight into where the industry is heading. SEMA members are invited to download the report at www.sema.org/research when it becomes available, and to register now for the SEMA Future Trends: Outlook for 2023 and Beyond webinar, February 2 at 11:00 a.m. (PST).
By attending the webinar, members will gain insight from Gavin Knapp, SEMA director of market research, and Kyle Cheng, SEMA market research manager, as they cover key findings from the report in detail, including:
SEMA’s updated market size projection and industry forecast.
New data on new- and used-car trends (sales, prices, projections).
An updated forecast on the growth of EVs and ADAS/autonomous technology.
The status of the ongoing supply-chain disruptions, its impact on the industry and where it’s going.
Outlook and forecasts for the overall economy—including metrics on economic growth, consumer spending, inflation and consumer confidence.
STILLWATER, OK (01.12.23) – Kicker Marine Audio introduces a new series of marine loudspeakers designed for use in the most demanding marine audio installations where ultimate power and performance are required. The new KMXL horn-loaded coaxial loudspeakers incorporate several unique features that set them apart from traditional marine speakers, while building upon KICKER’s Real Marine design ethics and standards.
The KMXL series builds upon the success of KICKER Marine Audio’s KMTC and KMFC horn-loaded tower speakers, widely recognized in the marine industry as the new standard in HLCD tower speaker design. The KMXL series brings much of this same technology to smaller 6.5-inch, 6×9, and 8-inch loudspeakers that can be installed in traditional coaxial speaker mounting locations.
A proprietary high-frequency horn design gives the KMXL series sonic performance provides incredibly smooth and easy listening, even at extremely high volumes. This proprietary geometry in the KMXL horn prevents acoustic resonances and standing waves, providing fatigue-free, long-term enjoyment. Super-efficient, lightweight midrange cone assemblies and advanced built-in crossover networks round out the KMXL designs for unrivaled sound performance.
The KMXL speakers UV treated grilles come in both charcoal and white and like All KICKER Marine Audio products, the KICKER KMXL series’ cones, baskets and grills, are UV and salt fog tested and certified to withstand the marine environment. Speaker hardware is forged from rustproof 316L stainless steel for years of enjoyable use. Neodymium magnets in the motor assembly provide tremendous power, while being extremely light weight.
The KMXL speakers, like most of the KICKER Marine Audio speaker lines, incorporate RGB LED lighting. Add up to 20 colors and 19 lighting modes by adding the small and lightweight KMLC lighting remote ($49.99).
The KMXL speakers come in 3 sizes: KMXL65 (6.5”) KMXL8 (8”) and the KMXL69 (6×9”) and can handle between 300 watts (KMXL65 and KMXL69) and 500 watts (KMXL8).
When upgrading a boat’s sound system—or installing a new one—look to the KICKER Marine Audio brand for dependability, durability and the best customer service in the industry. For more information visit http://www.kicker.com/marine-audio.
BOCA RATON, FL (01.12.23) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading auto accessory and window tinting franchise, was recognized for the 10th consecutive year as one of the top 500franchisesin Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking. The 44th annual Entrepreneur Franchise 500 is a highly sought-after honor in the franchise industry. Recognized as an invaluable resource for potential franchisees, the 2023 Franchise 500 ranks Tint World 368th for its outstanding performance in areas including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power.
“The past year underscores the extraordinary opportunities that the franchise industry presents for entrepreneurs of all levels,” says Entrepreneur editor in chief Jason Feifer. “The companies named to our 44th annual Franchise 500 list represent some of the most innovative, creative, and trusted brands across many industries and highlight what it takes to build the kind of momentum that drives long-lasting success.”
In Entrepreneur’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace, the company’s 44-year-old ranking formula continues to evolve as well. The editorial team researches and assesses several factors that go into the evaluation including costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. Each franchise is given a cumulative score based on an analysis of more than 150 data points, and the 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500 in ranking order.
Over its 44 years in existence, the Franchise 500 has become both a dominant competitive measure for franchisors and a primary research tool for potential franchisees. Tint World’s position on the ranking is a testament to its strength as a franchise opportunity.
“This is the 10th year in a row that Tint World appears in the prestigious Entrepreneur Franchise 500, which confirms that our strategy for growth is working,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “Our vision and commitment to franchisees distinguishes us in this industry, and we’re continuing to offer proven, repeatable systems and innovative support to drive their success in 2023.”
To view Tint Worldin the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2023 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands Jan. 17.
TEMPE, AZ (01.10.23) – Rockford Fosgate, the industry leader in high-performance audio systems, is pleased to announce that they have partnered with the Progressive Group to expand sales and support for their retail partners in the mid-Atlantic, Metro New York, and Southeastern markets.
As of February 1, 2023, Rockford has appointed Progressive Representatives to represent Rockford Fosgate in these markets. With the integration of long time Rockford Fosgate representatives who bring experience and lineage coupled with the addition of talented new individuals, Progressive Representatives will provide Rockford with a forward-looking team in the field.
“I’m excited that The Progressive Group has been granted the opportunity to work with Rockford Fosgate customers in these markets. For over two decades The Progressive Group has represented Rockford in other parts of the country, and we look forward to bringing our customer first organizational approach to all of our new Rockford Fosgate dealers,” said Dave Russell, Business Unit Director, The Progressive Group.
In the metro New York / mid-Atlantic areas Kenny and CJ Giba of Encore Sales will be joined by Bruno Berg in servicing the territory. Fred Dulaney and Mark Berry of Premier Marketing will join the Progressive Group alongside Gregory Wallace and Brian Cargile doubling the team in the southeastern states including Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee.
Progressive Distribution will begin servicing the southeastern states immediately to provide dealers access to the entire expanded assortment of Fosgate products.
Zach Luke, Rockford Fosgate National Sales Manager stated, “The industry haschanged, and so we must adapt to better serve the retailers not only today, but tomorrow as well. By working with Progressive Representatives and Progressive Distributing we can provide real business opportunity for our dealers with a focused approach on their needs.”
ENGLEWOOD, CO (01.11.23) – VAIS Technology has released new satellite radio integrated solutions specifically designed for ’21-‘23 Ford F-150, Bronco and Transit with Sync 4. This solution allows owners of these models to add SiriusXM® satellite radio to their existing factory stereo, without compromising factory functionality.
Dennis Hopper, VAIS Technology EVP, holds the new SiriusXM add-on adaptor for ‘21 thru ‘23 Ford F-150 in the company’s HQ lobby in Englewood CO.
“Since 2003, VAIS Technology have been developing satellite radio adapters for vehicles that aren’t equipped from the factory with SiriusXM® tuners,” Dennis Hopper, EVP, says. “While satellite radio is more popular than ever, many new OEM vehicles still don’t come equipped from the factory with satellite tuners. For 2022 several more OEM’s have removed satellite tuners from their platforms. Over the last few years Hyundai, Mazda, Kia, Jeep, Honda and Ford have removed satellite tuners from their base model vehicles. VAIS Technology develops simple, easy to install integrated solutions that add satellite radio, but preserve factory functions.”
The new kits provide coverage for new Ford models equipped with Sync 4 Radios. Also, all these models are compatible with the GSR-UV01 (universal unit) which can be flashed using online software. This allows dealers to only stock one unit to do almost all applications. This adapter connects directly to the original factory radio and allows the vehicle owner to listen to satellite radio through the existing factory system. The VAIS integrated solution also allows for full control of satellite radio functions – changing stations, setting presets, steering wheel functions, etc.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.11.23) – The 2023 SEMA Scholarship application period for students preparing for careers in the automotive or performance parts industries is now open and will run through March 1. Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance of up to $5,000 to foster future leaders and innovators in the automotive aftermarket industry. A loan forgiveness component is also available to employees that work for SEMA-member companies who have completed and are currently paying off a loan for a program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical school within the United States.
“Education can be expensive, but that shouldn’t limit students from getting ahead in their careers,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “There are so many career options in the automotive aftermarket, and it’s a thriving industry to be in. We encourage students who have a passion for cars a to apply for a SEMA scholarship so that we can help jump-start their careers.”
The annual scholarship program is a cornerstone of SEMA’s efforts to support career development and access in the automotive industry. Scholarship winners will have the opportunity to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, providing unparalleled networking and education opportunities at the world’s largest trade show for the automotive aftermarket.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens 18 years or older and demonstrate a passion for automotive hobbies and careers. Scholarships are available in a variety of categories, including but not limited to, accounting, sales, marketing and engineering.
Eligible students and SEMA-member company employees can apply until March 1 at www.sema.org/scholarships.
LAS VEGAS, NV (01.10.23) – HARMAN, a premier connected technologies company for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets made a strong return to CES 2023 with the announcement of several new aftermarket auto products launches from JBL and Infinity.
The Infinity Kappa Perfect Amplifier and Speaker products were launched as HARMAN announced its new partnership with Metra Electronics. This new product line enables the pairing of Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifiers and Speakers with Metra Electronics’ Saddle Tramp DSP Processor system integration and installation equipment for the Harley Davidson motorcycle market.
“The new Infinity Kappa Perfect system on the Harley Davidson in the booth was a surprise to attendees in the booth. All were really very impressed when the heard the system too. The Infinity Saddle Tramp System no longer requires an installer to flash the HD radio. We did it all for you” Shawn Spedding, Director of Sales, Mobile Audio Aftermarket related.
The kits consist of 2 speaker, 4 speaker, and 6 speaker audio systems in addition to accessory lower fairing installation kits for twin-cooled and non-twin-cooled applications. All products feature Infinity’s signature sound and cutting-edge technology at affordable prices. The amplifiers and speakers, once paired with Saddle Tramp’s direct fit brackets and DSP, are tuned by HARMAN Acoustic Sound Engineers to create a best-in-class audio performance and easy installation. The DSP flattens the factory audio settings through its head unit CAN connection.
The Harley in the JBL infinity booth showcased the Infinity Kappa Perfect PowerSports Amplifier and Speaker System.
Detailed work instructions make the job simple to install and provide a factory looking result which installers are proud of, and end consumers can do on their own. The new Infinity Motorcycle kits will begin shipping in April with options ranging from $999.95 – $2499.95.
MIDLAND, MI (01.10.23) – A classic automobile collection donated by a generous couple to Northwood University fetched more than $2.3 million during an auction Friday, Jan. 6, in Florida.
Michael and Dianne Morey, of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, pledged 35 vehicles from their automotive collection, and the cars were auctioned off at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida. The auction raised over $2,371,000 to support Northwood University and The Northwood Idea.
Michael Morey is pictured with a portion of the Morey Collection.
“Mike and Dianne’s incredible gift will be forever remembered by Northwood University,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “We have retained a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to display on campus as a reminder of the Morey’s generosity and American innovation.”
In 1983, the Moreys believed they could build a wood chipper better than anyone else. Mike left his job, invested in a small workshop, and with six employees and a small operating budget, built the Model 100 Brush Bandit, a 12-inch capacity disc-style chipper. Based on the success of the Brush Bandit, Bandit Industries was created, and Dianne actively joined the company.
Bandit designed and launched the world’s first self-propelled track whole tree chipper in 1990 and continues to lead this industry segment. Bandit operates a network of more than 180 dealer locations worldwide, and it currently has 725 employees. In 2018, the Moreys sold the company to their trusted employees, rather than accepting two offers to sell from private firms.
“The Moreys are stellar examples of how ingenuity, persistence and dedication pave the way for success in a free-market society,” stated Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University. “Each car the Morey family donated was part of their family story, and the story now evolves with Northwood University inspiring the dreams of young entrepreneurs from throughout the world.”
At the end of Friday’s auction, Mecum Auctions announced that two of the Morey vehicles were the top two automotive sales of the day. The 1967 Shelby GT500 Fastback sold for $330,000, and the 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda sold for $275,000. The surprise of the day was a 1981 Teledyne Continental Cheetah, selling for $65,000 (which was well beyond its appraised value).
Northwood University will utilize up to $1 million of the cash proceeds to enhance the campus experience. The remaining proceeds will be used to build the university’s endowment to create new scholarship opportunities for Northwood students.
The Moreys previously noted they are pleased their classic car collection will help support young men and women who want to work hard, build something of their own, and positively influence the communities they call home.
“Northwood University is a special place, filled with wonderful students, and we are thrilled to support their mission,” they stated.
Also known as America’s Free Enterprise University, Northwood University’s mission is to create future leaders of global economic and social progress. If you’re interested in supporting this effort, please visit www.northwood.edu/advancement/give.
TEMPE, AZ (01.09.23) – Mobile Solutions announced it has secured an agreement with Importel LTD to represent and distribute its products throughout Canada. Importel will carry and ship the complete line of Mobile Solutions products including templates, production tooling and accessories. Mobile Solutions previously was represented by a distributor in Western Canada and following that distributor’s acquisition by Importel, the agreement gives Mobile Solutions a stronger footprint in eastern Canada as well.
“The retailers and fabrication professionals of Canada have always been great supporters of Mobile Solutions and are a large part of our success,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder and CEO of Mobile Solutions. “By partnering with Importel, with locations in Alberta and Ontario, we are able to supply them with top-quality products, delivered quickly and efficiently.”
“Importel Ltd. Is very excited to be the exclusive distributor for Mobile Solutions products in Canada,” said Geoff Theoret, operations manager at Importel West. “We are proud to add Bryan Schmitt’s industry leading products from the Mobile Solutions brand to our vast offerings of premium products found at importel.com. We look forward to helping promote the MasterTech Expo industry training event in Mesa, Ariz., March 5th– 8th, to our Canadian dealer partners.”
Retailers in Canada can purchase Mobile Solutions products by placing an order at importel.com. For more information on Mobile Solutions, please visit mobilesolutions-usa.com. To attend the MasterTech Expo, sign up at mastertechexpo.com.
FULLERTON, CA (01.09.2023) – Vision Tech America, Inc., leading vehicle security and safety product manufacturer of backup cameras, dash cams, parking sensors, blind-spot detectors, and monitoring devices, is pleased to announce 2022 BOYO TROPHY AWARD Winners. Each year, awards are presented to the sales representatives based on their sales performance and quality of service.
Joe Palilla (R), Potomac Electronics Sales, is pictured with his Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 Award. DK Chung owner presented the award.
The Distinguished Sales Rep of the Year 2022 award was presented to Joe Palilla of Potomac Electronics Sales for the four years in a row.
Most Outstanding Sales Rep of the year 2022 awards were presented to Jeff Oliver of J&S Marketing, Dave Gill of SMS, Inc., and John Tatro of Norcal Sales & Marketing.
Congratulations to all award recipients. 2022 was a great year, outperforming the previous year, and we look forward to another successful year 2023.
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