ORLANDO, Fla., April 2nd, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX), is pleased to announce the appointment of Seth Halstead as its new Director of Marketing. Bringing over two decades of automotive industry experience, Halstead joins VOXX with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a proven track record of success in marketing and management roles.

Halstead most recently served as the Senior Content and Digital Marketing Manager at JVCKENWOOD, where he played a pivotal role in driving innovative marketing strategies and enhancing brand visibility. With a keen understanding of the automotive landscape, Halstead has cultivated extensive expertise in 12-volt retail, distribution, and manufacturing.

“We are thrilled to welcome Seth Halstead to our team as the Director of Marketing,” said Aron Demers, Senior Vice President, VOXX Electronics Corporation. “His wealth of experience and strategic vision will undoubtedly strengthen our marketing efforts and drive growth for VOXX. In the short time that Seth has been with us, the VOXX team and I have been very impressed with the direction he is taking us, and he is already making a difference. The best is yet to come, stay tuned.”

In his new role, Halstead will lead the VOXX Electronics Corporation’s marketing initiatives, leveraging his deep industry knowledge to further elevate the brand and expand market reach. His appointment underscores VOXX’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions, improving communication, and exceeding customer expectations.

“I am excited to join VOXX Electronics Corporation and lead the marketing team during this dynamic period of growth,” said Halstead. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive impactful marketing campaigns and strengthen VOXX’s position as a leader in the automotive industry.” Halstead’s appointment represents a significant milestone for VOXX as the company continues to innovate and drive forward in an ever-evolving market landscape. He can be reached at shalstead@voxxintl.com.

For more information on becoming a VOXX Electronics Dealer, Expeditor, or Restyler in the US, please
visit: www.voxxelectronics.com/become-dealer
For more information on becoming a VOXX Electronics Dealer in Canada, please visit:
gemsen.com/become-a-dealer
Follow us on Social Media at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC):

VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX), a global supplier of mobile and consumer electronics products. VEC is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and tracking, remote start systems, telematics, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and more. VEC sells its products through an extensive distribution network that includes expeditors, mass merchandisers, regional mobile electronics chains, and independent specialists both domestically and internationally. VOXX Electronics possesses a strong brand portfolio and its products rank among the top ten in almost every category in which they sell. Primary brands include: ADAS®, Advent®, AstroStart®, Audiovox®, Automate®, Autostart®, Avital®, CarLink®, Clifford®, Crimestopper®, Directed®, Flashlogic®, Install Essentials®, Invision®, Leather Craft®, MoviestoGo®, Omega®, Prestige®, Pursuit®, Python®, Rosen®, Rostra®, SmartStart®, and Viper®.
For additional information, please visit our website at www.voxxelectronics.com.

About VOXX International Corporation:
VOXX International Corporation (NASDAQ: VOXX) has grown into a worldwide leader in many automotive and consumer electronics and accessories categories, as well as premium high-end audio. Today, VOXX International Corporation has an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, mass merchandisers, 12-volt specialists, and most of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers. The Company has an international footprint in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, and a growing portfolio, which now comprises over 30 trusted brands. Among the key domestic brands are Klipsch®, RCA®, Invision®, Jensen®, Audiovox®, Terk®, Acoustic Research®, Advent®, Code Alarm®, Car Connection®, 808®, AR for Her®, and Prestige®. International brands include Hirschmann Car Communication®, Klipsch®, Jamo®, Energy®, Mirage®, Mac Audio®, Magnat®, Heco®, Schwaiger®, Oehlbach® and Incaar™.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.voxxintl.com.

LONG BEACH, CALIF., April 1, 2024 KENWOOD USA (kenwood.com/usa/car), a leading manufacturer of premier entertainment and information solutions for the automotive, marine, and motorsports aftermarket, is excited to announce the Long Beach CA. KENWOOD has introduced the DMX999AI multimedia receiver that is the first Automotive receiver to feature AI technology. The DMX999AI will feature a 10.1” Capacitive HD screen 6 HDMI ai wireless inputs, two sets of RCA outputs and will accept 10 external cameras. The KENWOOD AI “Speaks-A-Lot” technology allows the driver or passenger to hold conversations with the receiver and the receiver has the ability to learn behaviors such as music taste and driving characteristics. In testing it even learned to swear at other drivers.

Features include
• Music select mode –
• it will follow your music choices and begin making suggestions searching across various streaming sources to find selections.
• Conversation modes –
• Best Friend mode: Can converse on almost any subject in depth and is a great tool for long road trips.
• Partner mode: will criticize your driving in a familiar nagging manner.
• Politician mode: will tell you just what you want to hear and make promises it can’t keep.
• Navigation tools –
o Traffic mode- You say what’s with all the traffic? And it will create reasons.
o The DMX999AI will select routes in large cities where you are least apt to be shot, by analyzing recent crime data and trends.
John Lucas, VP of Sales, stated “This new receiver will revolutionize the aftermarket receiver market with its interactive AI. It’s also the first Green Receiver. At boot up it will suggest ways you can reduce your carbon footprint and this feature can’t be turned off. To further demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, the screen surround is made from a compressed plant base polymer. That is bio-degradable and gives the receiver it’s green color” The DMX999AI will be available in Mid-Summer 2027, at a projected retail price of $2999.99. CarPlay and Android Auto supporting models will follow soon after.
To learn more about KENWOOD, visit the company’s website at https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/
About JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation
JVCKENWOOD USA Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of JVCKENWOOD Corporation and is a leading developer of car entertainment products for the consumer market, two-way radio communications systems for public safety, private industry and amateur users, and video equipment for the broadcast and professional markets. For detailed information, call KENWOOD USA at 1-800-536-9663 or visit us at http://us.jvckenwood.com, www.kenwood.com/usa.

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (03.29.24) – A major new fundraising initiative for the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America begins in a big way Tuesday, April 2, with the rare opportunity for a winning auction bidder to have a one-on-one lunch with General Motors President Mark Reuss.

This truly priceless and unique, behind-the scenes experience takes place on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the GM Global Tech Center in Warren, Michigan, and will be followed by Reuss and the winner touring the annual Employee Car Show celebrating the 60th anniversary of select GM A-body cars like the Pontiac GTO, Chevelle SS and Olds 442.

The auction is available exclusively on automotive auction industry leader Bring a Trailer (BaT) and takes place from next Tuesday, April 2 through Tuesday, April 9th. The winning bid for this no-reserve auction, including the BaT buyer’s fee, will be donated to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA), which is operated by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation. The MSHFA’s mission is to honor its “Heroes of Horsepower” inductees and their winning American motorsports accomplishments and to preserve their legacies for generations to come. To create a BaT account in advance of the April 2 auction posting, please click on BringaTrailer.com.

“The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is an important organization to me and enthusiasts everywhere,” Reuss said. “I’m honored to be a part of this event, and excited for the auction winner to experience our Employee Car Show, which is always a very special and enjoyable day at GM.”

A high-performance motorsports enthusiast and strong supporter of the MSHFA, Reuss most recently inducted the MSHFA Class of 2023’s Sports Cars enshrinee Zora Arkus-Duntov, the late “father” of the Corvette and Corvette racing. A mechanical engineer, Reuss began his career with GM as a student intern in 1983, ascending through the global automotive giant to the position of President in 2019. As President, Reuss has overseen some of the most exciting racing programs in the corporation’s long history, including the introduction last year of Cadillac’s championship-winning IMSA GTP hybrids and the popular “Garage 56” NASCAR Chevrolet Camaro entry that stole the show at the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Reuss one-on-one luncheon auction is the first of several blockbuster online fundraising initiatives the MSHFA is introducing this year. Established in the late 1980s and fresh off its 36th Annual Induction Celebration presented by Toyota Racing earlier this month, the MSHFA, as a nonprofit, is largely dependent on donations – which are typically tax-free – from individuals and organizations for its annual operating budget. The MSHFA Museum is located on the grounds of Daytona International Speedway (DIS), just outside of the NASCAR Turn 4 tunnel on International Speedway Blvd. (ISB) in the DIS Ticket & Tours building and greets more than 150,000 guests annually.

“We are deeply indebted to Mark and to Bring a Trailer for making this possible,” said MSHFA President George Levy. “For any motorsports fan or automotive supplier, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend one-on-one time with one of the industry’s truest and most powerful enthusiasts.”

The GM Global Tech Center, which just underwent a major renovation, adds to the truly special luncheon experience with Reuss. Designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen, the campus opened in 1956 and houses the GM Design Auditorium, alternatively known as “The Dome.” The vast majority of GM vehicles developed since the mid-1950s have started life at this location, and the campus functions as an innovation center for automotive engineering, design, and technology.

The GM Employee Car Show, which is held annually around the scenic 23-acre lake located on the Tech Center campus, is closed to the public, but the winner will join Reuss after the lunch for a tour and viewing of the legendary GM A-body classics on display.

To create a BaT account in advance of the MSHFA Reuss Luncheon auction posting on April 2, please visit BringaTrailer.com.

The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorsportsHOF/ and Instagram and Twitter at @MotorsportsHOF. Learn more at www.mshf.com.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (03.29.24) – Exclusively for Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator JT vehicles — Rear Overhead Soundbars deliver LOUDER AUDIO PLAYBACK with deeper details of sound. Get ready for your customers to take in new dimensions of audio within their Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator JT vehicles through Music. Defined. listening.

Have your customers drive into spring adventure with audio adrenaline that creates new levels of playback through JL/JT Jeep Tuned Audio.

Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbars add audio layers upon music transforming sound into BIGGER dimensions of higher performance. Get ready for your customers to immerse their sound with Music. Defined. playback that places them within the concert right in their Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator JT vehicle.

Choose from either Compression Horn (with RGB Lighting or without) or Coaxial (with RGB Lighting or without) soundbar speaker models (available for Jeep JL 2018 — Current or Gladiator JT 2020 — Current models). Four 8-inch speakers within an enclosure add dynamic layers of immersive audio while featuring 1-inch Titanium dome tweeters that create clean levels of playback.

The MB Quart MBQJ-48HRGB and MBQJ-48H feature dynamic and LOUD 8-inch Compression Horn speakers with an innovated enclosure, but the MBQJ-48HRGB also includes RGB LED lighting to bring the concert to life with moving colors to showcase an in-vehicle concert right in your customer’s Jeep JL/JT vehicle. Bring the concert anywhere the spring trails demand!

Designed to directly replace and upgrade the OEM rear speaker soundbar, both of these rear overhead soundbars bring to life every genre of audio with incredible details, clean playback, and higher volume.

Learn more HERE about the MBQJ-48HRGB or HERE about the MBQJ-48H Compression Horn Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbars.

The MBQJ-48CRGB and MBQJ-48C Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbars feature 8-inch Coaxial speakers with an enclosure (like the MBQJ-48HRGB), but the MBQJ-48CRGB also includes RGB LED lighting. The MBQJ-48C still features 8-inch Coaxial speakers with the enclosure producing sound quality that is clean, immersive, and dynamic. TURN UP THE LOUD on every trail!

Learn more HERE about the MBQJ-48CRGB or HERE about the MBQJ-48C Coaxial Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbars.

Both Coaxial and Compression Horn speakers include 1-inch Titanium dome tweeters with a lightweight composite frame design for maximum airspace giving your sound a richer detail with total undistorted quality. Thespeaker enclosure is a composite construction with a MB Quart logo badge, as this drop-in upgrade utilizes the roof area around the B-pillar.

Vehicle-specific wiring and harnessing make for simple Plug and Play OEM style installation and setup easy and fast with basic hand tools only required.

Once your customers have heard what Jeep Tuned Audio can do for their favorite songs, no matter the genre, there’s just no going back. Transcend every outdoor listening adventure with MB Quart Jeep Tuned Audio that redefines their music through Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbars.

MB Quart Jeep Tuned Audio makes outdoor adventures reach new heights. Learn more HERE about the line of MB Quart Jeep Tuned Audio products and CONTACT your Maxxsonics sales representative NOW to place your MB Quart Jeep Rear Overhead Soundbar order.

Visit mbquart.com for more.

RINGWOOD, IL (03.28.24) – Race Sport Lighting, a leading pioneer of automotive aftermarket lighting solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with MAP Services, a pioneer in enforcing Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) policies, aimed at preserving the integrity of Race Sport Lighting’s brand pricing and addressing unauthorized online sales practices.

As the automotive aftermarket industry continues to thrive and evolve as brick and mortars expand their offerings to their online clientele, Race Sport Lighting remains committed to ensuring that its products are profitable to thousands of dealers across North America. However, the last four years have been challenging to police and enforce MAP as their brand grew in popularity and spread across other countries. To ensure maximum profitability for their resellers, and to enforce a DO NOT SELL list, it was clear that the company needed a partner dedicated to servicing this need.

By joining forces with MAP Services, Race Sport Lighting aims to strengthen its position in the market by implementing robust measures to uphold MAP policies and combat unauthorized resellers. MAP Services brings years of expertise and innovative solutions to the table, offering comprehensive monitoring and enforcement capabilities that will enable Race Sport Lighting to maintain price integrity across all distribution channels.

“Ensuring that our dealers are protected against profit erosion caused by MAP violators is paramount to us,” said Steve Jergensen, President of Race Sport Lighting. “Our partnership with MAP Services underscores our unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of our brand and providing dealers with the exceptional profitability they expect from Race Sport Lighting, whether in store or online. In just two weeks we have witnessed an improved reseller compliance of +20% and have now achieved 95.99% online listing compliance on today’s report.”

Through this collaboration, Race Sport Lighting and MAP Services will work closely to identify and address instances of unauthorized selling, MAP violators, and brand misrepresentation across online platforms. By leveraging advanced monitoring technology and proactive enforcement strategies, the partnership aims to create a cleaner and more transparent online marketplace for Race Sport Lighting’s products.

“We are thrilled to partner with Race Sport Lighting in their mission to preserve brand value, profitability for their dealers, and combat online pricing discrepancies,” said Tom Ameduri, National Account Manager of MAP Services. “With our combined software, expertise, and resources, we are confident that we can effectively safeguard Race Sport Lighting’s brand integrity and enhance the overall customer experience.”

The Race Sport Lighting and MAP Services partnership represents a significant step forward in the fight against unauthorized online sales practices and price erosion within the automotive aftermarket industry. By prioritizing brand protection and price integrity, Race Sport Lighting reaffirms its commitment to delivering unparalleled value and innovation to consumers worldwide.

Visit www.racesportinc.com for more.

NEW YORK, NY (03.28.24) – SiriusXM will offer baseball fans nationwide extensive coverage for the full 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season, from Opening Day through the postseason. Subscribers will have access to live play-by-play calls of every game, as well as 24/7 news, talk and expert analysis on the exclusive MLB Network Radio channel (channel 89).

Two former MLB stars – 2006 American League (AL) MVP and four-time All Star Justin Morneau and veteran pitcher Trevor May – have joined the team of hosts on SiriusXM’s MLB Network Radio channel this season. Every Sunday from 1-4pm ET, May will co-host “Home Plate” along with SiriusXM’s Dani Wexelman, while Morneau will make regular appearances on various programs on the channel.

On Opening Day (March 28), SiriusXM host and former general manager Steve Phillips will join Wexelman as they broadcast live from historic Camden Yards, where the Baltimore Orioles will play the Toronto Blue Jays. Coverage starts at 12pm ET.

With SiriusXM’s MLB programming, listeners never have to miss a moment of their favorite teams. The SiriusXM app offers 30 play-by-play channels dedicated to streaming the official radio broadcasts of every MLB team, giving fans the choice between the home and visiting team announcers for every game, from Opening Day through the World Series. All 30 MLB play-by-play channels are also available on vehicles equipped with SiriusXM with 360L radios.

SiriusXM’s new and improved app will feature a special page dedicated to MLB – sxm.app.link/MLB2024 – making it easy for listeners to access live and upcoming games and content related to their favorite team.

The 24/7 MLB Network Radio channel will continue to provide the most in-depth audio coverage of the league, with a roster of expert hosts, including former GMs Jim Bowden, Jim Duquette and Steve Phillips, former players David Aardsma, Kevin Frandsen, Chris Gimenez, Jensen Lewis, Trevor May, Justin Morneau, CJ Nitkowski, Eduardo Perez, Xavier Scruggs, Ryan Spilborghs and Mike Stanton, former manager Kevin Kennedy, national baseball writers Tyler Kepner, and Jon Morosi, as well as Robert Brender, Jenny Cavnar, Mike Ferrin, Dan Graca, Jeff Joyce, Jim Memolo, Grant Paulsen, Ed Randall and Dani Wexelman.

MLB Network Radio will also air Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo’s MLB Network show, “High Heat with Christopher Russo presented by Kit Kat,” weekday afternoons at 1:00 pm ET as well as simulcasts of additional MLB Network television programming, including the flagship studio show “MLB Tonight” weeknights.

Throughout the season, fans can also hear regularly scheduled interviews with several MLB managers on MLB Network Radio. These include Torey Lovullo (Diamondbacks), Bud Black (Rockies), Matt Quatraro (Royals), Derek Shelton (Pirates), Kevin Cash (Rays), Alex Cora (Red Sox), A.J. Hinch (Tigers), Pedro Grifol (White Sox) and others.

For a schedule of games and where to find them on SiriusXM go to SiriusXM.com/Sports.

JASPER, IN (03.27.24) – Meyer Distributing is proud to announce and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our 2023 manufacture, factory reps and person of the year. These partners have demonstrated strong collaboration, innovation and have contributed to our shared success throughout the past year.

“As a 100% family owned and operated business, we realize how important and impactful it is to recognize strong partners,” states Cody Ziegler, VP of Sales for Meyer Distributing. “2023 was another rewarding year across many of our business segments and we want to give a shout out to those folks. Hard work, determination and perseverance are just a few qualities needed to achieve goals and expectations despite any obstacles we might encounter.”

2023 partners of the year go to:
• Truck Accessory Manufacture of the Year: Access Bed Covers
• Performance Manufacture of the Year: Air Lift Performance
• Tire & Wheel Manufacture of the Year: Method Race Wheels
• RV & Towing Manufacture of the Year: Blue Ox
• 4×4 & Off-Road Accessory Manufacture of the Year: Hi-Lift Jack
• 4×4 & Off-Road Suspension Brand of the Year: Bilstein
• Commercial & Fleet Brand of the Year: Weather Guard
• Industrial Supply Brand of the Year: Streamlight Inc.
• Vehicle Detail & Protection Brand of the Year: Chemical Guys
• 12V & Audio Brand of the Year: Massive Audio
• Outdoor & Recreation Person of the Year: Jake Montoya
• Performance & Truck Factory Rep of the Year: Tony West
• Tire & Wheel Factory Rep of the Year: Alan Kung
• Marine Brand of the Year: Bob’s Machine

“Congratulations to our esteemed vendor and partners of the year, expresses Natalie Tempel, VP of Marketing at Meyer Distributing. Your unwavering dedication, exceptional service, and steadfast commitment have been instrumental in our success. We are grateful for your continued support, reliability, and collaborative spirit.”

Meyer Distributing is a complete wholesale distributor with 99 locations across the US and Canada. With strategically positioned warehouse facilities, Meyer Distributing is able to provide next day delivery to most locations using Meyer Logistics direct ship. Meyer carries over 900 product lines across a number of different business segments.

Visit mymeyer.com for more.

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (03.27.24) – It’s time to feel your LOUD come alive through outdoor playback enhanced with Music. Defined. quality in every beat. Set out on new spring adventures with audio that elevates your sound. Every winding canyon turn, narrow forest trail, or open seaside landscape demands MB Quart Universal Audio Systems.

Integrated full-range drivers on BOTH the 46-inch and 41-inch units feature composite construction midrange for deep and accurate midbass and 0.75-inch Titanium dome tweeters for crystal-clear high frequencies. Your sound will feel transformed through deeper details, incredible clarity, and LOUDER SOUND.

The MBQOH46-1 delivers 160 watts of overhead off-road adrenaline while producing LOUDER sound levels in every beat. This 46-inch, four-speaker universal overhead audio system includes a GMR-LCD, AM/FM, waterproof Bluetooth source unit with Android support and Apple Control. Every beat is heard through crystal-clear detail while producing high levels of detail and immersive listening. Sound reaches NEW VOLUME on every adventure!

The MBQOH46-1 can fit the following applications: Can-Am Maverick X3, Can-Am Maverick, Can-Am Commander, Polaris Ranger, Polaris General, Honda Big Red, John Deere XUV, John Deere RSX, Kymco, Kubota, Yamaha Rhino, and Yamaha YXZ.

Learn more HERE on the MBQOH46-1 Overhead Audio System.

The MBQOH41-1 also delivers 160 watts of powerful sound while producing
BIGGER levels of Music. Defined. playback. This LOUD 41-inch, four-speaker universal overhead audio system also includes a GMR-LCD source unit within a high-impact HDPE composite enclosure. Included Memory-Sync remembers the most recently connected device and will automatically reconnect to it when powered on. The unit is adjusted by a master knob and easy menu selection.

The MBQOH41-1 can fit the following applications: Kawasaki Mule, Kawasaki Teryx/Teryx 4, Can-Am Defender, John Deere, Kubota, Textron Havoc/Stampede/Prowler, and Yamaha Viking.

Learn more HERE on the MBQOH41-1 Overhead Audio System.

Take on TOTAL CONTROL along every off-road journey with an easy-to-use GMR-LCD source unit powered with a 160-watt internal amplifier that features AM/FM while remaining Bluetooth-ready.

Audio connections include two RCA outputs (Front & Rear) with 3.5mm and USB audio inputs so you’ll have plenty of options for hearing your audio.

A mounting system is included on both Universal Overhead Systems
Take your outdoor adventure on a mission to push your Music. Defined. audio to NEW HEIGHTS of LOUD in every song. With incredible midrange and highs producing audio so clear and vibrant – you’ll be craving for more at the end of every spring journey. Set your soundstage with Overhead Audio Systems!

Follow the link HERE and learn more details on MB Quart Powersports All-in-Ones Overhead Audio Systems.

ORLANDO, FL (03.26.24) – VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC) proudly announces the retirement of Paul Platt, a distinguished figure in the 12-volt industry.

Platt, renowned for his four-decade-long career in consumer electronics, with over 25 years dedicated to VOXX, bids farewell to a remarkable journey. His contributions have left a lasting mark on VOXX Electronics Corp., his peers, and the wider 12-volt industry.

Throughout his tenure, Platt has been instrumental in driving VOXX’s success in the Northeast region. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with his invaluable expertise and leadership, has cemented VOXX’s position as a leader in the 12-volt landscape.

VOXX Electronics extends its deepest gratitude to Platt for his exceptional dedication and numerous accomplishments. Upon retirement, Platt intends to devote more time to his lifelong partner Nancy, of 39 years, his two children, and eleven grandchildren, while indulging in his passion for golf.

Leaving VOXX in capable hands, Ian Worrall assumes the role of Eastern Region Retail Sales Manager, following Paul’s guidance. “Under Paul’s mentorship, I am confident that Ian will seamlessly carry forward Paul’s legacy and contribute to the continued success of VOXX,” stated Aron Demers, Senior Vice President, VOXX Electronics Corporation.

For more information on becoming a VOXX Electronics Dealer, Expeditor, or Restyler in the US, please visit: www.voxxelectronics.com/become-dealer

For more information on becoming a VOXX Electronics Dealer in Canada, please visit: gemsen.com/become-a-dealer

SHREVEPORT, LA (03.26.24) – This subject is so important that we are reprinting an article by Bill Ward of CMIC Consulting that appeared in the August ’95 issue of the 12 Volt Advertiser. We had many favorable comments regarding the article… now over 29 years ago.

In 2024 Store Appearance and the In-Store Experience is even more vital. Online activity is impacting brick and mortar store in a very negative way. Small businesses have been the heartbeat of the retail category. Many manufacturers are now driving business through their websites and even offering drone delivery.

This past weekend NIKE reported they were looking at options to drive more business through non-traditional retail channels. Below is the ‘Store Appearance Is Vital’ 12volt Advertiser August ’95 article directed to 12volt retailers.

Each day when you open your store and your customers walk in the door, they are making a new judgement about your store. Is the store clean and well merchandised, or is it cluttered and disorganized? How does it compare to nearby stores where they have shopped for the same product. In the first few seconds, they will form an opinion that will last a long time. Will it be a good impression or will it be a negative one?

The customer evaluation of your store starts as soon as they drive in your parking lot. Trash and clutter will not only affect today’s customer but your future customers who may be just driving down the street. The outside of your store is like a billboard that advertises your company. Does it make the statement you want to make? When your customer walks in your door he is your guest. At home when you know you are having a party or company, you make sure everything is clean and looks its best. When your store opens every morning, it should not be any different.

The 60 minutes before you open each morning is a critical time for every retailer to get ready for today’s customers. It’s a time that the owner or manager should be active and get involved with supervising his employees to be sure that the store is ready to open. Before you unlock your door, walk around and inspect the inside and outside and look at it through the eyes of your customer. How does it stack up?

CHECK your parking lot and be sure it is clean and litter free. CHECK to be sure your door and window glass is clean and free of smudges. FILL in products from your stock room so your selection is complete and you displays full. RE-ALIGN and merchandise to maximize the impact of your product displays. REMOVE all empty cartons and packing from the sales floor. CHECK all your advertised merchandise and be sure it is priced and ready to go. MAKE sure your aisles are free and clear of clutter and boxed merchandise. HAVE your store and restrooms clean and ready to open.

CHECK to see if your point of sale signs and pricing is all up to date and current. DELEGATE the responsibility to get the job done, but personally inspect the results each day before you open.

The In-Store Experience is so important. The MUSIC MATTERS and people can not experience the highs and mids, or feel bass in their chest, on a smartphone or laptop.

As an industry ‘Let’s Get Our Shine On’!