By Ellen McKoy
Are you concerned about government regulations that may have a far-reaching impact on the future of the aftermarket industry? Want to engage with automotive enthusiasts to expand your company's reach and boost your brand?
Suppose you answered yes to either or both of these questions. In that case, the new SEMA+ individual membership program presents a value-added opportunity to connect with consumers and support SEMA's legislative agenda.
Some may recall that in 2021, the SEMA Board of Directors approved a landmark new membership category: SEMA Individual Membership (SIM), and for the first time in the association's history, individuals were allowed to join SEMA.
Fast forward to 2024, and SEMA+ was rolled out prior to the SEMA Show in November. In rebranding and reimagining the membership program, SEMA aimed to bring greater value to both consumers and the industry. In keeping with its mission, SEMA+ is centered on harnessing the passion and power of a broad-based enthusiast community, uniting their voices on issues that affect the industry and fostering connectivity to SEMA.
"Investing in SEMA+ is an investment in the future of our industry," said AJ Carney, SEMA director of membership. "By welcoming car and truck enthusiasts into the SEMA community, we unite a collective voice that strengthens our foundation."
Crafting Connections, Amplifying Advocacy
That collective voice includes businesses, employees, industry pros, everyday consumers and die-hard enthusiasts who share a common passion for the automotive lifestyle and for preserving the right to customize their vehicles. The dues are just $40. Membership includes access to legislative alerts, a dedicated industry newsletter, industry and lifestyle discounts from participating benefit partners and engagement through social media platforms.
For SEMA business members, the program offers an opportunity to interact directly with end users. Case in point: The benefit partner component puts the participating companies front and center. The current list runs the gamut, from recognized industry brands to well-known providers of lifestyle, entertainment and travel services, among others.
By providing a direct connection to end users who buy their products or services, business members gain an effective marketing edge, which in turn helps to build brand recognition and consumer awareness of both the industry and the association.
For Trim Illusion, SEMA+ offers a direct pipeline to consumers while building its brands and supporting SEMA's advocacy agenda.
"What I like about SEMA+ is that it engages both enthusiasts and manufacturers looking to create consumer awareness," said Trim Illusion's President Colby McLaughlin. "Being a benefit partner is great marketing for your brand and your business. It's a great way to bring enthusiasts into SEMA and get your brand in front of consumers year-round."
A proponent of SEMA's legislative advocacy, McLauglin also sees SEMA+ as a way to educate and engage. "Whether you're in the business or an enthusiast, being aware of legislation that could impact your hobby or your company is very important. SEMA+ provides the infrastructure that makes it easy for everybody to have a voice and help SEMA be more successful in its advocacy efforts that benefit our industry," he said.
At the same time, by providing a forum that cultivates and encourages consumer engagement, both SEMA+ and SEMA are able to marshal grassroots support, creating a unified voice to address a challenging regulatory landscape and amplify the association's advocacy agenda.
"Whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, installer, builder, enthusiast or consumer, SEMA+ offers something for everyone," said Carney. "It's an individual membership that unites us and ensures our industry thrives for generations to come. Together, we share ideas and build connections, ensuring the automotive aftermarket remains strong, dynamic and ready for any challenges ahead."
To learn more about SEMA+ or to join, visit sema.org/plus and click "join." Questions? Email AJ Carney at ajc@sema.org.
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