PALMYRA, PA (05.29.24) – DAS Companies, Inc. is excited to announce the return of Eddie Perales to the Consumer Electronics Team. Leveraging his extensive industry experience, Eddie will lead our initiatives for Hispanic-based accounts.

All can connect with Eddie at KnowledgeFest in Atlantic City from June 7th to 9th, where he will be in the DAS Booth #800.

For direct inquiries, Eddie can be reached at 1-800-336-2730.

Eddie P has a large Hispanic-based dealer following and this news article is posted below in a Spanish version.

DAS Companies, Inc. está emocionada de anunciar el regreso de Eddie Perales al equipo de Electrónica de Consumo. Aprovechando su amplia experiencia en la industria, Eddie liderará nuestras iniciativas para cuentas basadas en la comunidad hispana. Puedes conectar con Eddie en el KnowledgeFest en Atlantic City del 7 al 9 de junio, donde estará en el stand #800. Para consultas directas, puedes contactar a Eddie al 1-800-336-2730.

Visit dasinc.com for more.

SHREVEPORT, LA (05.20.24) – In-store traffic is vitally important for the success of 12volt brick and mortar retailers. Across the US the reports indicate all consumer in-store traffic is down. Online sales, along with strained family budgets, are the main contributing factors.

For 12volt retailers another contributing factor is the lack of consumer awareness for the wide range of automotive upgrade products available today. 12volt is not only car audio. The wide range of in-vehicle connectivity, security and safety products, along with window tint, paint protection and graphics expand the range of products available from 12volt retailers.

Advertising on television and radio is expensive. Print advertising has basically disappeared. Online visibility, along with social media, are terrific sources for 12volt retailers….committing to making engaging daily posts is critical.

Look Our Way ‘Air Dancers’ present an emerging opportunity for curbside visibility in front of 12volt retail locations. Street traffic is a constant for all brick and mortar retailers. An Air Dancer easily plugs into AC and can be placed out front of a store. The base contains a fan that blows verically to fill and make the fabric tube…..DANCE. The fabric tube disconnects from the base with Velcro. The Air Dancer can be customized and is available in various colors with heights to 20’. At the end of the day the Air Dancer is easy to take down and put inside the store for the next day.

There are also possibilities for factory for vehicles on the road at events and reps on the road.

See www.lookourway.com to see how inexpensive an Air Dancer option can be for your store.

THE 12VOLT CENTRAL STUDIOS (05.20.24) – With the beginning of May 2024 the 12volt industry activities shifted into high gear. From Myrtle Beach, to Denver, to Bloomington, to Seattle, to Sacramento, to Huntington Beach proactive 12volt industry members utilized the 12voltSTP Tool to showcase their positive activities.

The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase your company’s positive activities and products. Snap and Txt an image… PRESTO your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. 318 469 2526 is the number. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is also true for the business realm that includes the 12volt Industry.

Check out the images below for examples of posts made over the week with images from 12volt industry members who utilized the 12voltSTP Tool.

Today, a vast percentage of people spend hours and hours on their mobile devices each day. Reports are the average person spends 7 hours a day on their smartphone.

To deliver fresh industry news to members of the mobile electronics industry the 12volt Central Studios makes multiple posts on Instagram and Facebook each business day. The 12volt STP Tool was created in 2020 for members of the 12volt industry to send their news to the 12volt Central Studios. Snap and Txt an image to 318-469-2526. PRESTO, your positive news could be delivered to members of the 12volt industry.

On Instagram and Facebook @12voltnews has over 10,000 followers on each platform. Those followers are dedicated members of the 12volt industry. To see over 1000 posts #12voltstp on Instagram.

Look forward to seeing your company’s brand and positive activities in the 12volt News.

Visit instagram @12voltnews for more.

SEATTLE, WA (5.13.24) – The 10th annual Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo is set to bring members of the Mobile Electronics industry together this week Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday – May 13th through the 15th. Registration info is on their website https://www.pnwcee.com. This industry-only event is open to all industry-related dealers, reps, distributors and their employees.

“We are excited to once again create a positive atmosphere where dealers, their sales people and techs can learn about new products and technologies by interacting with factory personnel on the event floor, attending various trainings and experiencing demo vehicles outside” PNWCEE Founders Dan McMillian-In Phase Marketing and Mark Giovannetti-Pacific Rim Marketing related.

Pacific Northwest representative firms Crossover Marketing, Falcon Marketing and Oliver Marketing join with In Phase Marketing and Pacific Rim Marketing to host the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo.

There will be a Welcome Reception on Monday evening for all who are attending the Expo on Monday – May 13, at 5 pm – followed by a new addition this new… NIGHT JAMS. NIGHT JAMS are evening training/informational sessions with presenters from Manufacturers discussing and demonstrating their latest products, techniques and information to help attendees stay current in the ever changing 12volt industry.

Monday NIGHT JAMS Motorcycle System Design & Installation class by Sam Walker of Walker Audio Designs and participating manufacturers rolls at 6:30 pm. Diamond Audio, Kenwood, JBL/Infinity, PowerBass and Metra will be participating and will showcase some of their latest motorcycle solutions during this Night Jams session.

Rounding out the evening NIGHT JAMS will be an OEM Integration Round Table class at 7:30 pm by participating manufacturers. Industry veterans from Alpine, Elettromedia, iDatalink, Focal, Gladen, Mosconi, Metra, PowerBass and more will showcase new OEM Solutions.

On Tuesday evening the NIGHT JAMS will kick off with a “Art of the Demo” Simplifying the Process of selling DSP by presenter Rob Haynes from JL Audio. The second NIGHT JAMS on Tuesday night will be OEM Audio Integration and Getting Good Results by Educar’s Ken Ward.

Ryan Gunter, The Executive Director at Mobile Electronics Specialists of America (MESA) has confirmed that he will be attending the Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo in Seattle, WA this week, May 13-15th. We are excited to have Ryan attend this year, as the MESA Dealer Group includes some of the finest Mobile Electronic stores in the country today according to the PNWCEE committee that puts on the Expo.

The PNWCEE Committee thanks all of the participating Representatives and Manufacturers for their efforts in putting together the 2024 Pacific NW Mobile Electronics Expo. Coming together as a team to generate an atmosphere of excitement, learning and networking in a united effort for Car Audio dealers, their salespeople and techs.

For more see https://www.pnwcee.com

COLUMBUS, OH (05.13.24) – Tint World Automotive Styling Centers continues its rapid growth with the opening of its first location in Ohio.

Tint World Columbus, owned and operated by Josh Vanlandingham, offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality automotive styling and aftermarket part services, including window tinting, paint protection films, ceramic coatings, and professional detailing.

“We’re proud to introduce the world-class Tint World brand to drivers and auto enthusiasts in Columbus and throughout the central Ohio region,” Vanlandingham said. “Thanks to the quality and value of their services and their wide range of expertise, Tint World is recognized as the go-to provider of window tinting, paint protection films, automotive audio and electronics, vinyl wraps and graphics, custom wheels and tires, and all other in-demand automotive services, as well as marine, commercial and residential solutions. We’re committed to ensuring Columbus drivers have everything they need for an enhanced driving and lifestyle experience.”

Tint World Columbus is located at 2002 Crown Plaza Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235. To book an appointment, request a quote or learn more about services provided by Tint World Columbus, call (614) 695-3299 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/oh/columbus-177/.

“Josh is a great addition to the Tint World family, and we’re thrilled to be working with him to connect our proven brand with drivers in Columbus and throughout Ohio,” said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. “This is another important step in our growth and an opportunity to educate consumers about the convenience, value and industry-leading quality Tint World offers.”

Visit tintworld.com for more.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (05.13.24) – DD AUDIO is proud to introduce the VO-W700s, drivers made to satisfy an under-appreciated bandwidth between the bottom end of a midrange and the heavy lows of the subwoofer, striking a balance of clarity and power that puts them in a class of their own. With a rich pedigree tracing back to the 1990’s era of Digital Designs 9000 Series subwoofers, and a sleek undemanding profile, these woofers have been made for applications where depth is limited, but expectations are not.

The high powered dual magnet motor is focused through a precisely CnC cut magnet gap, utilizing distortion reducing shorting rings. The voice coil is a high temperature 4 layer copper wire, wound on a dual slit aluminum former for lower inductance and maximum heat transfer. The pressed cone, with weather resistant finish, offers increased rigidity and midrange ability. The dual spiders and high-density, closed cell foam rubber surround govern intense restoring force to deliver fast, hard transients while controlling low frequency flutter under high power.

These features make the VO-W700 woofers the ideal choice when the system design requires a higher crossover pointing to high output midranges, where normal subwoofer rolloff leaves a frequency gap. The bandwidth optimized build coupled with low inductance measures extend the usable frequency response octaves beyond that of traditional subwoofers of a similar design, like the old 9000 Series.

Best of all, the combination of high motor force, tight control, and compact cast frame, allow the VO-W700s to be used in small vented box designs, taking advantage of vehicle acoustic loading, allowing you to enjoy the low end punch with a higher frequency attack, from a myriad of locations in the most cramped of cabin spaces.

Available in the 10 inch VO-W710 and 12 inch VO-W712.

STILLWATER, OK (04.26.24) – Early Wednesday morning, April 24th, students from Franklin Tech School in Joplin MO boarded a bus headed to Stillwater for a tour of the Kicker HQ. 36 students, along with instructors Joe and Doug, made the 186 mile trip in about three hours. Once arriving the students gathered for a photo op outside the HQ before entering the amazing lobby and getting the tour underway with KICKER Tech Force team members Aaron Malin and Jacob Luckey.

Malin related “This is the third year that students from Franklin Tech School have travel to Stillwater for a tour of the facility. During the day the group was split into two groups as we only have space for 20 students per session. The other students enjoyed lunch while waiting for their tour.”

During the tour, the students checked out KICKER’s broad lineup of products, spent time in the tech center and also in the KICKER UnMasked Studio. They also enjoyed a listening session in the theater that provided sound quality and volume that they had never experienced before. All were definitely Livin’Loud!

Cassie Dorton, who coordinated the Franklin Tech School tour stated “It is so terrific that KICKER will provide their facility and conduct tours for our students. Not many companies will and our students enjoyed the tour so much. The experience and opportunities to really further their careers in the technology field is a terrific benefit. Our thanks to KICKER.”

Malin concluded “It is so important to engage students for their potential careers in the mobile electronics and aftermarket automotive industries. Recently, KICKER hosted a SkillsUSA Oklahoma State competition and provided winners with a tour of KICKER HQ. We will continue working with schools and the SkillsUSA initiative as we are sponsor of the 2024 SkillUSA Convention in Atlanta this June.

Visit kicker.com for more.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (04.26.24) – The PowerBass distributor sales person incentive contest cruise headed out from West Palm Beach Florida on April 21 and returned on the 23rd following a stop in the Bahamas.

“It was a fun time for all. Everyone had a blast on the fun short cruise as we all had a drink in our hand and feet in the sand” Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager, related.

Seven PowerBass Distributors were on the cruise that included flights for the distributor person and a guest. Lootens Distributing, DAS, D’Source Distributing, Davis Distributing, N&H Distributing and Bestco Distributing were on the cruise as well as Nelson Pierantoni the PowerBass Road Warrior of the Year Repfrom Florida.

The PowerBass Cruise crew members pictured having an evening dinner and enjoying a great night together. Pictured with their guest on the cruise are (LtoR) Doug Looten- Looten Disstributing, Jeff Falk, PowerBass National Sales Manager, Justin Smith – DAS, Josh Burris – D Source Distributing, Nelson Pierantoni-PowerBass Road Warrior Florida rep, Bobby Jones – Davis Distributing and Van Lee-N&H Electronics. Pietro Martinez from Bestco Distributing is not pictured at the dinner.

Distributor personnel on the trip had great networking opportunities discussing the state of the 12volt industry, hot PowerBass categories along with plans to drive business going forward in 2024.

Doug Looten related “It was terrific to get together and see old friends plus meet people from other distributors across the country. Always good to know what’s working to drive business in their respective territories”

Josh Burris from D’Source stated “Getting input from other distributors with regard to hot categories for PowerBass was very informative. The OE category has not been that hot in Minnesota. Nelson really gave me some pointers to spotlight the OE Direct Fit category of speakers”.

Van Lee with N&H Electronics was another one of the distributors who indicated the real value of communicating with other distributors to deliver the message to dealers and get everyone excited about growing business across the 12volt industry.

Justin Smith from DAS commented “We had s spectacular time on the cruise. It was super to spend time with Jeff and other distributors. I will be excited to share what I learned on the cruise with my dealers and DAS colleagues. We actually extended our trip due to the kindness of PowerBass and spent additional days in Florida. My wife Tracy and I have been married for 14 years and had never taken a real vacation. PowerBass to the MOON from the bottom of my heart. THANK YOU PowerBass!”

Eric Harbour, PowerBass VP, offered “It was super to see our distributors embrace the contest and participate on the cruise. PowerBass will continue to connect with industry members in-person as Jeff will attend the upcoming PNWCEE in Seattle and I will be at the D’Source Dealer show in Minnesota next month.”

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

LONG BEACH, CA (04.26.24) – After years of dedicated service and invaluable contributions to JVC Mobile Electronics, Ron Trout’s has announced his retirement from his position as Director of Sales. Trout’s departure marks the end of an era for the company, as he leaves behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and unmatched commitment to excellence.

Trout’s journey with JVC Mobile Electronics began 14 years ago, when he joined the company, bringing over 30 years of industry experience with him at the time. Throughout his tenure, Trout played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s sales strategies, driving growth! Under Trout’s leadership, JVC experienced significant expansion and success, with the company consistently delivering cutting-edge products and solutions to consumers.

Throughout his career, Trout’s earned a reputation as a trusted advisor and mentor, both within the company and across the industry. His passion for excellence and his ability to inspire and motivate others have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him.

In a statement regarding his retirement, Trout’s expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Director of Sales at JVC Mobile Electronics. He said, “It has been an incredible journey working with such a talented team and being part of the JVC family. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident that the company will continue to thrive in the years to come.”

Trout’s retirement comes at a time of transition for JVC Mobile Electronics, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. As the company bids farewell to a visionary leader, it also looks forward to building upon the foundation that Trout’s helped establish.

The team at JVC extends its heartfelt thanks to Ron Trout’s for his years of dedicated service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions will be remembered and celebrated as the company continues its journey into the future.

As previously reported, industry veteran Steve Cote advanced to Director of Sales for JVC Mobile Electronics.

Visit www.us.jvc.com/car for more.

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL (04.19.24) – Specialty Marketing Veteran Dennis Hopper is hitting the road across Florida to inform dealers throughout the state that Specialty Marketing is on the ground to work face to face with 12volt retailers.

“The dealer meetings I had the week of April 8th were terrific. As an industry veteran of 36 years I knew many of the dealers and they were happy to see me and welcomed me into their stores. We talked about Pioneer, Diamond Audio and new brands like THINKWARE.” Hopper related.

The Specialty Jacksonville warehouse is scheduled to be open and shipping on May 1st to allow next day shipping to all of Florida and Georgia.

Hopper’s time on the road continued the week of April 15th with dealer stops. A stop at Soundcrafters in South Daytona was super as the two 12volt industry veterans caught up on the many years passed. “Paul was excited to know the warehouse in Jacksonville will be on shipping on the 1st of May. In our discussions the Diamond Audio bikes products came up and Paul not aware of some new models for Harleys. He had a very nice THINKWARE display in his showroom and is doing well with the dash cam category” Hopper added.

Concluding Hopper commented “One prominent dealer related… with Bryan Mongiovi and Dennis Hopper at the helm, I’ll support them 100%, because they have known for years exactly how to service my account.”

For more see SpecialtyMarketing.com