By Juan Torres
Leading journalists from around the world are attending the 2021 SEMA Show in search of products that will resonate with enthusiasts and markets in their respective countries.
“I am looking for products that I think will do well in my home market (the UK and Europe),” said Mike Rysiecki, feature writer at Fast Ford, Auto Italia and Retro Ford magazines. “Not only am I looking for new and innovative products, but also from established vendors. New products from fledgling startups are just as important as those from established companies.”
Journalists rely on the New Products Showcase—the No. 1 destination at the SEMA Show—to find exhibitor products. Products that are entered into the Showcase receive added exposure, drive traffic to the exhibitor’s booth and are eligible to win a New Product Award and Global Media Award.
“The Global Media Awards program increases the brand awareness of exhibitors participating in the New Products Showcase,” said Linda Spencer, SEMA senior director of international and government affairs. “It is an added benefit that enables exhibitors to create relationships that could lead to business in new markets. Exhibitors are invited to attend the International Happy Hour taking place Wednesday, November 3, where they will have the opportunity to meet with the all of the international GMA journalists as well as top international buyers.”
Now in its 17th year, the GMA program helps SEMA Show exhibitors identify business opportunities in emerging international markets and build connections that can help expand their market reach.
As part of this year’s program, journalists from a number of countries and regions, including Canada, Latin America and the Middle East, will visit the New Products Showcase during the opening day of the SEMA Show, and each will select 10 standout products to recognize with a GMA award.
“I’ve had the opportunity to be a GMA judge for 15 years, and I always look forward to identifying 10 new products that can be of use and benefit to my readers, followers and automotive business partners in Venezuela,” said Henry Pierini, director of Auto Zulia magazine. “I’m looking forward to seeing all the new products at this year’s SEMA Show and identifying those that address important aspects for us, such as safety, innovation, and feasibility.”
“I am delighted to discuss the reasons behind their award with the winners,” added Rysiecki, who serves as a GMA judge. “This can lead to deeper and ongoing follow-up discussions and the gathering of additional market insights to support an international business expansion case for winning products.”
For more information on the New Products Showcase and other ways to increase exposure at the SEMA Show, exhibitors can visit www.semashow.com/esm or contact their sales representative.