BOCA RATON, FL (07.09.26) – ITP-BIS — for MINI Cooper Brings wireless CarPlay and Android Auto to the factory screen of MINI Cooper (2-door and 4-door), Countryman and Clubman, model years 2018/19–2021 with the BIS system. No Touchscreen: Unlike previous kits, this solution relies entirely on the factory control knob for navigation.
👉 Advanced installation (internal kit, no external module, No Touch) — professional installation recommended.
ITZ-NTG6 — for Mercedes-Benz
Brings wireless CarPlay and Android Auto to Mercedes-Benz models with the NTG6 MBUX system (A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, CLA, GLB, GLC, GLE, GLS, EQA/EQB/EQC and more), 2018–present.
👉 Plug and Play — quick, straightforward installation.
Both models include:
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
Front and rear camera inputs, with dynamic parking guidelines
Your favorite apps on the dashboard: Waze, Spotify, WhatsApp, Google Maps and more
3-year warranty
Want to check compatibility for your specific model, or find an authorized installer?
ELKHART, IN (07.09.26) – (BUSINESS WIRE) – Patrick Industries (NASDAQ: PATK) (“Patrick”) and LCI Industries (NYSE: LCII) (“LCI” or “Lippert”) announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger, forming a premier component solutions provider for the outdoor enthusiast, housing and transportation markets. Under the agreement, which the Boards of Directors of both companies unanimously approved, LCI shareholders will receive 1.2440 shares of Patrick common stock for each share of LCI common stock they own.
Following completion of the transaction, Patrick shareholders will own approximately 52% of the combined company and LCI shareholders will own approximately 48%.
This strategic combination brings together two companies with complementary product portfolios and longstanding partnerships with customers and stakeholders across North America and Europe. Together, Patrick and Lippert will create a more dynamic, innovative, solutions-oriented platform serving a diverse range of OEMs and consumers in the outdoor enthusiast, housing, transportation and other markets, through a broader portfolio of brands, more efficient operations, enhanced R&D investment and commercialization capabilities. By bringing together Patrick’s integrated design-to-delivery capabilities and Lippert’s expertise in highly engineered, structural OEM and aftermarket components, the combined organization will deliver differentiated, cost-effective competitive solutions aimed at improving affordability, strengthening value chain alignment and delivering outstanding customer service while supporting long-term organic and strategic growth and disciplined capital allocation.
As a result, the combined company will be well positioned to enhance value for the shareholders of each company through bolstered financial performance, reduced costs, and a continued focus on execution, all while providing outdoor enthusiasts with impressive new solutions and an enhanced array of competitively priced products.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the evolution of our two companies as we continue on our journey to positively impact and deliver value for our customers, our team members, shareholders, and the communities we serve,” said Andy Nemeth, CEO of Patrick. “We have long respected the Lippert team and their impressive, innovative capabilities across the solutions they deliver and are thrilled to reach this milestone. We have two highly successful, well-established organizations with long track records of strategic and organic growth, innovation, and customer service, supported by incredible talent across each enterprise, deep expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we will create a premier partnership-oriented platform for the global outdoor enthusiast ecosystem, housing and transportation markets that is more resilient, and better positioned to serve all of our customers – from OEMs to the end consumer. We remain dedicated to our culture and values focused on humility and trust, the reinvestment in our vision, business, and strategy with the goal of delivering an even brighter future for the stakeholders we serve.”
Johnny Sirpilla, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Lippert, added, “This combination represents a defining moment for Lippert. Our shareholders will benefit from ownership in a more diversified company with the financial and operational strength to grow revenues and deliver outstanding value to shareholders and other stakeholders. As two complementary businesses with strong legacies deeply rooted in Elkhart and our other local communities, we understand the potential and positive impact this combination can deliver. Together, we can offer a broader, more innovative, competitive, and affordable portfolio of products and product solutions, as we work with our partners and customers in key segments to drive greater value for end consumers. We will also continue to invest in our growth and combined capabilities, creating new opportunities for team members and charting an exciting new future for the combined company.”
Clear Strategic Rationale
Creates a Premier Component Solutions Provider for the Outdoor Recreation, Housing and Transportation Markets: The combination creates a leading provider across recreational vehicle, marine, powersports, truck and adventure / off-road, transportation, automotive and housing markets. With enhanced resources, the combined company’s solutions-based offerings will enable OEMs to better address affordability for end consumers. Improved diversification across end markets and expanded capabilities position the combined company for greater stability and durable growth across industry cycles. Highly Complementary Portfolios Strengthen Ability to Serve Customers and Enhance the End User Experience: Patrick and Lippert offer strategically adjacent product capabilities, creating a diversified portfolio across interior, exterior, structural and mechanical systems. The combined company will remain a trusted partner to OEM and aftermarket customers, with expanded R&D, broader capabilities, and accelerated speed-to-market, enhancing innovation and the overall end-user experience. Expands Aftermarket Channel Access and Distribution Networks: Lippert’s established brands, distribution infrastructure and channel access meaningfully advance Patrick’s strategic priority to expand its aftermarket presence. This expansion further enhances revenue growth, helping offset OEM production cyclicality, and improves the margin profile of the combined company. Strengthens Long-Term Commitment to Local Communities: Patrick and Lippert share a commitment to supporting the communities where their team members live, work, and enjoy the outdoors. Together, they will further develop their strong community partnerships to inspire and support the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Compelling Financial Benefits for Patrick and Lippert Shareholders
Delivers a Resilient Financial Profile with Strong Cash Flow Generation: On a pro forma basis, the combined company’s trailing twelve months results as of March 2026 would be approximately $8.1 billion of revenue, adjusted EBITDA of $1.0 billion inclusive of synergies, and free cash flow of $508 million inclusive of synergies.
Drives Meaningful, Achievable Cost Synergies: The transaction is expected to deliver over $150 million of run-rate cost synergies achieved within three years of closing. These synergies are identified and actionable, arising primarily from procurement, SG&A efficiencies, engineering best practices, and improved supply chain management.
Provides Balance Sheet Flexibility: The combined company will have a strong balance sheet with expected pro forma net leverage of 2.1x and the liquidity and flexibility to support continued investment in growth and capital returns. The combined company’s capital allocation strategy will focus on reinvesting operating cash flows in the business within a disciplined net leverage target of 2.25x to 2.5x, with priorities including strategic growth and automation-oriented capital expenditures while returning cash to shareholders through share repurchases and a balanced dividend policy. Leadership, Governance and Headquarters
Upon closing, Patrick Industries CEO Andy Nemeth will serve as CEO of the combined company.
The Board of Directors of the combined company will consist of 12 directors, with six designated by Patrick and six designated by Lippert. Patrick Director Todd Cleveland will serve as Chair of the Board and Lippert Interim CEO and Director Johnny Sirpilla will serve as Vice Chair of the Board.
The combined company will employ a collaborative approach to identify executive management and other leaders for key business units.
Following the closing of the transaction, the combined company will be headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana.
Timing and Approvals
The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2027, subject to approval by shareholders of both companies, the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.
Advisors
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is serving as lead financial advisor and Baird is serving as co-lead financial advisor to Patrick Industries and McDermott Will & Schulte LLP is serving as legal advisor. Perella Weinberg Partners LP is serving as financial advisor to LCI Industries and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal advisor. FGS Global is serving as strategic communications advisor to LCI Industries.
Conference Call, Webcast and Presentation
Patrick and Lippert will host a conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss the transaction. Participation in the question-and-answer session of the call will be limited to institutional investors and analysts. The dial-in number for the live conference call is (877) 407-9036. The webcast and accompanying slides can be accessed on both companies’ investor relations websites. A replay of the conference call will be available on both companies’ investor relations websites following the call. A dedicated website with more information about the transaction is available at PatrickandLippertTogether.com.
SHREVEPORT, LA (07.01.26) – Its summertime and time for 12volt dealers to crank it up and drive Sales. It’s summertime and time for consumers to get Jammin’ N July with great gear for the rides. Vendors, reps, distributors and dealers can unite to get consumers into their stores. Hi-Tech media, powerful amps and speakers that rock plus much more will get consumers rides Jammin’ N July.
This custom Jammin’ N July graphic can get the ball rolling. There’s no charge. In today’s marketplace for 12volt retailers are utilizing social media to connect with followers and consumers. 12volt retailers can post this free graphic on their Instagram and Facebook accounts. The graphic is square for Instagram and Facebook templates. Simply download or screenshot and size the graphic! In the comment area dealers can highlight their brands and existing exciting activities.
Jammin’ N July. Those words and that message can grab the attention of follows and consumers to create much needed in -store traffic for 12volt reach others. It’s imperative that 12 V retailers create a powerful in-store experience for consumers in the showroom. An impressive demonstration will bring a smile to the consumer space and can raise the hair on their arms.
From the 12volt Central Studios, we will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. The 12volt STP Tool makes it easier than ever. Snap an image with your smartphone. Txt that image with a few words to 318 469 2526. PRESTO… your store’s positive activities could be in the news.
As an industry, let’s get our shine on. Let’s get Jammin’ N July!!
WASHINGTON, DC (7.1.26) – The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) is highlighting new market research that shows how automotive consumers continue to be drawn to the aspirational vibes of the culture of motorized off-road recreation, with modified pickup trucks and SUVs driving a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket that represents a culture of American grit and individual expression. Parts for pickups remain the largest catalyst for spending in the accessory-and-performance aftermarket, making up 30% of sales. Trucks are the big winner; in 2025 alone, owners spent over $15 billion modifying their pickups for off-road, utility, and recreational use. This segment was the leading contributor to an overall $52.92 billion in sales of aftermarket accessories and performance parts in 2025.
These insights are among those contained in the 2026 SEMA Market Report, which was compiled by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) utilizing a variety of data sources, including interviews with industry sources, consumer surveys, secondary data sources, and government statistics. ORBA is a wholly owned subsidiary of SEMA.
“You can’t watch TV for a meaningful period of time without seeing an ad where automakers showcase their vehicles ripping through an off-road environment, and that continues to be reflected in how consumers are spending to modify their vehicles for recreational use on public lands and beyond highway driving,” said SEMA Director of Market Research Gavin Knapp. “The off-road ethos has a huge impact on the specialty-equipment market, as people love the look and capabilities that off-road upgrades can bring to their vehicles.”
A full version of the 2026 SEMA Market Report is available to media upon request.
TRENDS Nearly half of aftermarket sales are for trucks and SUVs. Overall, the performance and accessory aftermarket continues to show strong results, as roughly one-fourth of drivers purchased products within the industry to personalize their vehicles last year. In 2025, pickup and SUV modifications, the two biggest segments for off-road parts, made up 43% of the entire $52.92 billion accessory and performance parts market.
Consumers spent over $15 billion last year upgrading their pickups, with body mods, suspension, and wheels and tires leading the way. Nearly 13 million pickups were accessorized in the U.S. last year alone.
Roughly one-fourth of pickup (26%) and SUV (21%) accessorizers report using their vehicle for off-road activities.
Over 6 million SUVs were modified in 2025, led by flagship off-road models such as Jeep’s Wrangler and Ford’s Bronco. SUV owners spent over $7 billion on parts and accessories to make their vehicle look and perform better, whether resto-modifications that bring modern safety and comfort capabilities to vintage models, or accessorizing new vehicles to meet a specific lifestyle need.
Even CUVs or crossovers, the new kids on the block, have seen their accessory market expand to over $8 billion in 2025. Utility- and recreation-focused mods, such as wheels and tires, suspension, lighting, and racks have rapidly gained ground in this expanding segment.
Key off-road categories continue to show strong sales in 2025. Vehicle owners spent over $3 billion on suspension products, such as lift kits, to upgrade their ride and handling, largely for pickups and SUVs. Off-road tires continue to be strong sellers, as pickup and SUV owners bought over $2 billion worth of oversized rubber to improve clearance. Pickups, SUVs, and CUVs also lead the way sales of products such as racks and carriers, towing products, and accessory lighting that are integral to off-roading, overlanding, and outdoor recreation.
With light-trucks (pickups, SUVs, CUVs) making up nearly two-thirds of the 300 million passenger vehicles on U.S roads, the off-road accessorizing market continues to look very strong.
Younger consumers continue to be key drivers of the industry. More than half of accessory and performance parts buyers are under the age of 40 years old. Younger buyers are also more likely to engage in more complicated builds focusing on performance parts.
Cross-ownership is also a significant factor for the off-road community. Over half of accessorizers also own some kind of sports or recreational equipment (compared with 40% of non-accessorizers). This includes motorcycles, side-by-sides, and dune buggies, further enhancing their connections to the off-road and outdoor lifestyle.
BACKGROUND Motorized off-road recreation is more than an in-demand image; the industry has significant financial clout. Outdoor recreation on federal public lands and waters fuels America’s economy.
Each day, outdoor recreation on federal lands and waters:
Adds $351 million to the U.S. economy – the equivalent to hosting eight Super Bowls every month in economic impact
Directly contributes at least half a billion dollars annually to federal coffers, through receipts, permits, entrance fees, leases, and other payments
Returns $128 billion in economic activity and nearly $6 billion in federal tax revenue, while making significant contributions to the physical and mental health of Americans
Supports 5 million American jobs, of which one out of five is dependent on federal public lands
Motorized outdoor recreation delivers $720 billion in economic impact. The off-road segment of the automotive aftermarket is similarly impressive, generating $12 billion in annual economic impact.
The companies that support this segment of the automotive aftermarket are overwhelmingly small businesses, American-made manufacturing, and shining examples of our nation’s ingenuity and engineering superiority.
Many entered the aftermarket industry as enthusiasts and today lead the charge as entrepreneurs and examples of the American dream, where a great idea brought to market can reach consumers and generate prosperity for individuals and surrounding communities.
Off-road environments serve as some of the most demanding real world proving grounds for automakers, offering an extreme form of evaluation often referred to as “torture testing.” The punishing terrain of events like King of the Hammers demands extraordinary durability from the vehicles and exceptional resilience from the drivers, capturing the essence of American grit and powered by world-class engineering.
CRANDON, WI (06.23.26) – The Rally X America’s Tour has returned to the US. The unique Rally X Tour includes a series of events held across the US with opportunities for both amateur and professional drivers to compete, with the emphasis on safety and skill development through training sessions plus engagement activities in the communities. Engagement opportunities include meet and greets with drivers plus promotions with local businesses and tourism in the host cities.
There was a lot of area in the paddock for the KICKER booth to setup. The KICKER Subaru is pictured in the back.
The KICKER Car won the 1st Heat Race on Friday.
The KICKER OEM Blue test truck was was on site.
Lorin Morrell, MadDog Media, was on the road with KICKER’s large presence at the Crandon international raceway in Crandon, WI.
“This was the first time for KICKER and myself to be on site at a Rally X event. The venue was so huge with the large crowd over the event run. We had KICKER booths set up in the paddock area which gave a lot of room for demos and to be able to spotlight various KICKER products. Wisconsin is real truck country so the under the seat loaded KICKER product got a lot of attention along with power bars. There was also interest in bikes as summer is here.”
Concluding “On site there was a terrific amount of KICKER branding plus we handed it out over 1000 lanyards and 800 koozies that will certainly extend the KICKER branding in the area throughout the summer” Morrell related.
TAMPA, FL (6.23.26) – The Memphis and DOW Technologies training session that DOW hosted on Wednesday evening, June 17th, at the Tampa location packed the house with 83 retailers on site… All interested in boosting their skills in order to drive sales forward.
The 9 member Car Stereo Team enters the DOW location with Pedro Castillo in the black shirt.
The 12volt Central Studios staff contacted two of the retailers that attended to get their thoughts on the event that featured a detailed Memphis training conducted by Ellis Mathis along with a terrific buffet dinner from The Brisket Shoppe along with time to spent with fellow retailers.
Mark and Chris from The Audio Shop outside with the shops 1998 OBS Chevy Silverado that was loaded with Memphis gear for demos.
The Car Stereo Store was on site with 9 members of the company’s team. Pedro Castillo was there leading Car Stereo Store team and gave the event a big thumbs up. Eddie Rivera related the members of the team were totally engaged and welcome the opportunity to learn the latest on the Memphis product lineup plus check out some of the other displays on site at the Tampa DOW location.
The custom installation in the OBS Chevy Silverado got a big thumbs up with all demos.
Mark and Chris were also on site at the event from The Audio Shop in Palatka FL. They were likewise very impressed with the Memphis presentation and the delicious barbecue buffet. They brought the shop’s1998 OBS Chevy Silverado loaded with Memphis products that they demoed outside. “All were very impressed with Memphis demos. All-in-all it was a great evening.
We thank Mike Barcia and all at DOW and Memphis for putting the evening together” Mike related.
The DOW Memphis training event is very important to bring industry members together to create excitement to drive the brick and mortar segment of the 12volt industry forward.
LIBERTYVILLE, IL (06.23.26) – Van sound has a front stage. Time to make it LOUD. All-new MB Quart Mercedes-Benz Tuned Sprinter Kits are engineered to transform every ride — purpose-built for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van (W907 / 2019 – Current). Get ready for van audio that brings heavier bass and cleaner beats.
Feel an entire soundstage in your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van with the STAGE 6 audio system (MBQSV-STG6A-1), making 700 watts of Music. Defined. power and features: 6.5-inch, 2-way front component speakers, one 3-inch center channel dash speaker, and a BIG 10-inch, application-specific subwoofer system – powered by a 700-watt 5-channel Class-D amplifier.
Just want an MB Quart speaker system upgrade? The MS1-216C Speaker Upgrade includes the 6.5-inch, 2-way front component speakers and one 3-inch center-channel dash speaker.
SHREVEPORT, LA (06.22.26) – From the 12volt Central Studios, we are JAMMIN’ N JUNE to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. Below spotlighting exciting events that happened this past weekend. In the marketplace today it’s so important to showcase industry members doing positives to engage consumers, and enthusiasts, to drive business across the 12volt industry. Retailers need to play the in-store experience and professional installation cards in their deck every day.
In today’s online and AI driven world, it’s more important than ever the members of the 12volt industry to utilize tools available to connect with customers. Manufacturers need to connect with reps and retailers. Distributors need to connect with dealers and 12volt dealers need to connect with consumers to drive business.
DOW Technologies hosted a MEMPHIS Training at the company’s Tampa location on Wednesday evening June 17th. There were 83 dealers in the house along with DOW and Memphis Team members. Ellis Mathis conducted a well prepared meeting that engaged all in the audience. A delicious Brisket Shoppe buffet was enjoyed by all with time for industry members to connect and make plans to drive business forward.
The Rally X America’s Tour returned to the USA on June 20th and 21st at the Crandon International Raceway in Crandon WI. KICKER was on site with a large present with Lorin Morrell track side. KICKER had multiple displays tents plus demos set up on the huge Raceway grounds. The KICKER Car won the 1st race heat on Day 1.
Kevin Cornutt and the Stereo King crew had a very busy UTV Takeover at Coos Bay OR with many demos and tents set up for on site installations. Cornutt related “This event never disappoints and this year may be the best yet… and we can’t wait until 2027.”
Jack Bogard had another very successful Car Show at the company’s Sanford ME on Saturday, June 20th. The large layout of the store’s grounds allowd for vehicles out front, on the side and down behind the building. Jack and his team definitely connect with consumers and enthusiasts across the area. Next month the 30th Anniversary Show will definitely rock the town.
Team Nutz is definitely the most proactive retailer in the in the Pittsburg area. Ed and Nina Nuttall. along with the Team Nutz crew, are at an event every week plus connecting with enthusiasts. This last week a customers reached out for help with a special project. Felix, a retired Marine, was finishing a new custom Corvette CV8 and wanted help with installing vertical doors on the CV8. Ed and the team made it happen and Felix took home 2 top trophies!
Several years ago the 12volt Central Studios staff members created the 12volt STP tool. Today everyone has a smart phone in their pocket that they pick up 200 times a day. The 12volt STP Tool makes you so easy to connect by simply snapping an image, texting it to 318-469-2526 with a few words, and Presto that message can be delivered across the industry. The 12volt STP Tool is a perfect companion for JAMMIN’ N JUNE!
From the 12volt Central Studios staff will continue to showcase positives across the 12volt industry. Let’s all keepJAMMIN’ N JUNE. Stay tuned for more from the 12volt Central Studios.
OXNARD, CA (06.22.26) – BOSS Elite is proud to announce its new 7-inch capacitive touchscreen factory-fit headunit for 2014-2023 Harley-Davidson Street/Road/Electra Glide is now shipping.
“Featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ (Wired, Wireless) platforms, the IP66-rated BE920WCPA.HD is the ideal multi-solution aftermarket headunit for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts,” explained Carolyn Jackman, Senior Brand Manager for BOSS Elite. “It is also SiriusXM-Ready® with built-in iDatalink® Maestro and has been designed specifically to withstand the elements and control on-the-road audio systems the way they were meant to be played.”
Additional BE920WCPA.HD features and specifications include: • Built-In DSP with 13-Band EQ, Crossover Settings and Time Alignment • High Resolution Audio Playback- FLAC • Multicolor Illumination • RDS/RBDS Tuner • Switchable US/LATAM/EU Tuner Frequencies • Push-To-Talk • MSRP: $1,499.99
TAMPA, FL (06.19.26) – Memphis and DOW Technologies partnered for a training session that DOW hosted on Wednesday evening, June 17th at Tampa location.The training packed the house at DOW’s location with 83 retailers on site and all interested in boosting their skills in order to drive sales forward.
Ellis Mathis upfront conducting the training session.
There was a line of dealers waiting to register.
There was a line of dealers for the Brisket Shoppe buffet.
Mike Barcia, DOW Florida Territory Manager, was on site with other members of the DOW Team. Barcia provided information from the very successful event along with images for this article.
“The training session was a terrific event..one of the best I’ve seen in my years in the industry. Ellis Mathis conducted a very informative session and members of the audience were engaged with what Ellis had to say covering the Memphis line. Dealers were very focused and all were excited about the opportunity to win raffle items. The Memphis raffle items included 10 Memphis Flow wireless Bluetooth speakers, Memphis DSP, and Memphis PRX-5 Channel Amp along with a Memphis tent and 2 stools to take back to winners stores” Barcia related.
All said the buffet was well waiting for.
Attend, checking out the Memphis display use that trade shows.
Following the training, there was a delicious buffet from The Brisket Shoppe. All dealers enjoyed brisket dinners from the buffet. There was a long line for the buffet. During the evening dealers were also able to connect with one another plus see different items that Memphis offers to help promote their brand. A live Memphis portable show display was a real attention getter.
Based on the success of the Memphis training in Tampa watch for more trainings at other DOW locations.
