SEMA Member News—September/October 2015
Another Successful Hot Product Showcase in the Books
 The ARMO Hot Product Showcase allows members to highlight their products at Spring Carlisle for only the cost of shipping. | |
Each year, restoration parts manufacturers that are members of the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) have the opportunity to highlight parts at the Hot Product Showcase in order to gain brand exposure. This year marked the 18th annual event at Spring Carlisle, which is known to be one of the world’s largest gatherings of automotive restoration enthusiasts. The event was held April 23–25, 2015, with more than 80 different products from a variety of member companies on display.
For only the cost of shipping their products, these ARMO-member companies received an incredible amount of attention. In addition to the onsite exposure to consumers attending the collector-car swap meet, corral and auction, all of the product entries were professionally photographed. The photos are available to the manufacturers for their own use. They also appear with product descriptions on the ARMO webpage, for those who weren’t able to make it to the event in person. The products will receive additional exposure this fall, when the photos are shown both at the ARMO reception and at at the ARMO booth at the 2015 SEMA Show.
Next year’s event will take place April 21-23, 2016. Members are encouraged to mark their calendars and begin thinking about which products they would like to showcase in 2016. As a part of the application process, each of the products will be screened to ensure that it is from an ARMO-member company, will be market-ready by the opening of the Showcase and demonstrates unique or innovative technology to benefit the restoration community. Applications will be accepted starting in January.
The four-day event also provides quality networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders. An integral part of the week is the ARMO Networking Mixer, which takes place annually on Thursday night in the Hot Products Tent. Attendees may grab a beverage and spend time interacting one on one with council leadership and staff from fellow ARMO-member companies. It’s an event that holds enormous potential for new ideas and partnerships as members network with industry friends. The mixer is also open to prospective members who want to try the council on for size and learn more about how they might benefit from involvement in the group.
 Todd McClure | |
ARMO Welcomes Todd McClure to the Select Committee
Todd McClure is ARMO’s newest select committee member. While it is his first time serving in this capacity, he brings a unique perspective to the group. McClure shared a little bit about himself and his goals.
SEMA Member News: What is your industry background?
Todd McClure: Every summer during high school and college, I worked at The Right Stuff, programming CNC tube benders to make tubes for classic cars. I also was lucky enough to travel to a lot of automotive events to promote products. So I have been involved in the restoration market for nearly 20 years now, and I have never stopped enjoying the people and the cars.
SMN: Why do you feel that it’s important to serve on the select committee?
TM: I see a lot of value in ARMO companies sharing experiences and information that will advance the interests of the industry as a whole. I want to be sure to contribute to restoration not only continuing but also growing in the years to come.
SMN: How might your experience benefit ARMO?
TM: I have worked in manufacturing, purchasing, sales and marketing, promoting both retail and wholesale sales. So I think I have a strong understanding of all facets of business in the restoration market. I hope to learn from current and past council members about progress with existing programs while helping to promote new programs to entice younger men and women to get involved in the hobby of restoration.
