ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (06.18.24) – Zapco and ESB Audio showcased their latest product lineups in the company’s booth along with a Jaguar demo vehicle that drew rave reviews from attendees.

Chris Bennett, who recently joined the Apex Group Italy, manages all US Sales and activities. “This was an opportunity to bring all members of the Apex Group Italy and the US staffs together and proved to be very successful. Enzo Biasella travelled from Italy to join George Jenkins, Ernie Hundal and myself as we presented the Zapco and ESB Audio products and marketing plans. Jack Mazur, and his AllBoro Custom team from New York City, delivered the show stopping Jaguar demo loaded with an extreme custom installation of Zapco and ESB Audio gear.”

“KnowledgeFest Atlantic City was perfect for us to debut ESB Speakers, which are relatively new to the US Market. Many dealers who had not heard of ESB Speakers before were excited by the wide range of speakers and the value of ESB Audio for their stores” Bennett concluded.

AllBoro Custom is a well known 12volt retailer that specializes in custom installations. The Jaguar is Mazur’s personal vehicle. “Actually we worked on the Jaguar project for nearly 2 months. I personally worked on the project. Initially the project was getting all the gear in house and then setting up the custom design work. We started with a little bit of work on the project every day. I lost track of the hours sometime back at about 300 hours. As the show date appoached we went full time and finished up the buld the day before we rolled out to Atlantic City. When the Apex team experienced the sound and installation they very happy. When attendees saw and listened to the Jag they very very impressed and all gave big thumbs up. That was what made me very happy and proud” Mazur stated.

George Jenkins, VP US Sales, related “We were thrilled to have Chris join the Apex Group Italy recently. He did super work organizing everything for our successful launch in Atlantic City. The stage is set to drive Apex Group Italy’s objectives and goals forward.”

ERIE, PA (6.18.24) – The area in front of the Custom Audio location in the West Ridge Plaza was filled with over 100 cars on Sunday June 16th, Father’s Day, to benefit The Anna Shelter mission.

“Cars started showing up early for a place on the plaza and we soon had our max of 100 car, trucks and vans for the event to further the Anna Shelter mission” Sondralee Orengia offered.

The Anna Shelter animal welfare organization in Erie PA was established in June of 2004. The organization helps dogs, cats, small animals… even horses, one animal at a time. During the Sunday event there were gift baskets, raffles and 50/50 opportunities on site along with the RouechaQue food truck which shared a percentage of sales with the Anna Shelter..

Continuing “The event on Father’s Day was so special. The weather was terrific and so many families came to see the wide selection of amazing vehicles at the event and spend the afternoon together.”

On Sunday Custom Audio’s showroom was open and staff members engaged with enthusiasts about the wide variety of 12volt and automotive aftermarket 12volt products available at Custom Audio. Sondralee and Nick were slammed inside as AJ and Paula were outsideand helping Anna Shelter and others direct traffic.

“Last year we were very busy following the event every day during the week following the Car Show and expect to be this year also. Putting the Custom Audio brand in front of consumers and enthusiasts continues to drive business. We certainly look forward to next year’s Anna Shelter event” Orengia concluded.

Visit customaudioshop.net for more.

AVON LAKE, OH (06.18.24) – Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), a worldwide leader in heat and sound control products, is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking product, ATAC™: Advanced Thermal Acoustic Control Coating.

ATAC (#50208) is a revolutionary water-based coating that sets a new interior heat and noise management standard. It was developed using micro-sphere ceramic technology that utilizes tiny beads to dampen noise and vibrations while reflecting heat up to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius).

Unlike traditional coatings that focus solely on either heat or sound control, ATAC combines both functionalities in one innovative solution thus saving time and money. This cutting-edge product can be sprayed on, rolled, or brushed onto interiors, providing unparalleled performance in heat and sound management.

“We are excited to introduce ATAC to our customers,” said Mike Buca, Brand Manager of Design Engineering Inc. “With ATAC, we are offering a unique solution in one product that addresses the dual challenges of heat and sound control. Whether you’re restoring a classic car, refurbishing a boat, upgrading an RV, enhancing a truck, or tackling industrial applications, ATAC delivers exceptional results.”

ATAC is now available for shipping and comes in a convenient 1-gallon size, making it ideal for various projects and applications. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a must-have product for automotive enthusiasts, marine enthusiasts and industrial professionals alike.

Key features and benefits of ATAC include:

• Advanced thermal and acoustic control in one solution saves time and money.
• Reflects radiant heat up to 375 F (177 C) while reducing vibration and noise for a quieter more enjoyable ride.
• Easy application through spraying, rolling, or brushing.
• Available in a 1-gallon resealable bucket that covers up to 75 square feet.
• Provides superior performance compared to traditional coatings.
• Water-based coating that cleans up easily and is environmentally safe.
• Suitable for automotive restoration, marine vessels, RVs, trucks and industrial applications.
• An optional DEI Spray Gun is also available (#50209)

For more information about ATAC, available to order now, visit https://www.designengineering.com/atac-advanced-thermal-acoustic-coating-1-gallon/ or contact sales@designengineering.com.

To learn more about DEI’s complete line of innovative products, visit www.designengineering.com.

ORLANDO, FL (06.13.24) – VOXX Electronics Corporation (VEC) is writing to inform you of an important update regarding the distribution of VOXX Electronics products. After 06-22-24, Davis Distribution will no longer be an authorized distributor for VOXX Electronics products.

However, we have exciting news to share! To ensure continued access to our premium range of products, including Viper, Python, Avital, Directed by VOXX, Prestige, Flashlogic, CarLink, Audiovox, Advent, Movies to Go, and more, we encourage you to establish a direct account with The Progressive Group, our trusted partner.

Progressive Representatives are ready to assist you in setting up your direct account and providing seamless access to the latest VOXX Electronics products. Additionally, you’ll have access to purchasing through Progressive Distribution, in which you’ll enjoy enhanced convenience and efficiency in ordering processes.

But that’s not all! We understand the importance of uninterrupted access to DIRECTECHS, and we are pleased to inform you that by connecting with The Progressive Group, you can ensure the seamless continuation of your DIRECTECHS account.

To get started or if you have any questions, please reach out to your dedicated Progressive Representatives:

Craig Norman: Serving the Greater Indianapolis Area, Greater Louisville and Lexington Area, Greater Cleveland Area, Mid and South Ohio Territory

Email: cnorman@teamprogressive.com

Mobile: (614) 264-0224

Office: (248) 307-9100

Brian Robinson: Covering Northern Indiana and Northern Ohio (excluding Cleveland)

Email: brobinson@teamprogressive.com

Mobile: (574) 930-6326

Office: (616) 878-3500

Nicolas Hayes: Catering to Southern Indiana, Kentucky (excluding Louisville and Lexington), Greater Youngstown Area, West Virginia, and West Pennsylvania

Email: nhayes@teamprogressive.com

Mobile: (480) 433-2293

Office: (616) 878-3500

In addition to setting up a direct account with Progressive Representatives, Progressive Distribution is now authorized to sell VOXX Electronics products in WV, PA, OH, KY, IN, & MI. Please visit the Progressive Distribution website at https://progressivedistribution.net/  or call 1-616-878-3500.

VOXX Electronics products are also available for purchase in KY and IN from Lesco Distributing. Please visit their website at  https://www.lescodistributing.com/ or call 1-800-348-2888

We’re excited about this transition and confident it will enhance your experience with VOXX Electronics products. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the Ohio River Valley region!

ROSENBURG, TX (05.29.24) – Tim White and Wet Sounds are renowned in the industry for consistently leading the way in innovation in High Performance Audio and showcasing the most impressive vehicles at SEMA. Their innovative products have completely transformed the industry landscape, introducing groundbreaking advancements such as the first-ever Horn Loaded Compression Driver (HLCD) production tower speakers, trailblazing the world’s initial UTV soundbar, pioneering the LED backlight marine speakers, and numerous other industry-defining achievements that have paved the way for the evolution of marine audio today.

Tim established Wet Sounds in 2005 in his Taylor, Texas garage, eventually bringing in partners Brett Triola and Joe Mandola soon after. Together, they propelled Wet Sounds to become one of the most innovative and prominent marine audio manufacturers worldwide, expanding into Powersports, Motorcycle, Lifestyle, and Home Outdoor Audio. Wet Sounds was acquired by Patrick Industries in 2021, leaving the 3 founders as leaders of the company.

Tim follows Brett Triola into retirement, who retired in January of 2024. Tim and Brett have passed the torch to Joe Mandola, as they embark on new ventures. After nearly two decades, Tim is bidding farewell to Wet Sounds to pursue his passion for Tequila as co-owner of the groundbreaking brand, Agazul, set to shake up the Tequila industry much like Wet Sounds revolutionized marine audio.

We send a very heartfelt good luck and hope that he never stops continuing the #WetLife ambition in his future endeavors.

Visit wetsounds.com for more.

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.