By SEMA News Editors

The 2023 SEMA Show is forecasted to return to historic levels when it returns to the Las Vegas Convention Center, October 31-November 3.

Now in its 56th year, the Show is where the automotive aftermarket industry gathers to discover new products, identify future trends, and make valuable connections that empower the growth of one of the most innovative industries in the country and around the world.

"The SEMA Show is a must-attend event for anyone who wants to set the pace in the automotive aftermarket," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "The scope of exhibitors, new product launches, high-quality programs, and opportunities at this year's Show will have attendees well-positioned for success in the coming year."

The growth of the Show underscores the impact the automotive aftermarket has on the American economy. SEMA recently released its first-ever economic impact report, and the data showed that the industry contributes $337 billion to the U.S. economy and creates 1.3 million jobs nationwide. Automotive aftermarket companies also pay more than $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes, and their employees earn more than $104 billion in wages and benefits. And the impact of the Show also reverberates around the globe with attendees expected from more than 140 countries and regions.

Show organizers have curated multiple opportunities for exhibitors, buyers, and media to see what's coming next in the automotive aftermarket:

Spotting Future Product Trends

The discovery of new products remains the heart of the SEMA Show. More than 2,200 exhibitors--including 23% who are first-time exhibitors--will be in attendance, giving buyers and media the first look at new innovative products. 

Highlights include:

• The New Product Showcase: one of the focal points of the Show, the Showcase features hundreds of new products and industry innovations and connects buyers directly with exhibitors via the SEMA Show app.
• FutureTech Studio: This new, immersive experience will highlight "what's next" through live education, product displays, and sponsor vehicles demonstrating technologies that are advancing and redefining the performance aftermarket.

Powering Development Through Education

The Show will offer nearly 100 education programs covering a wide breadth of topics and subjects--ranging from women in the industry to digital marketing and more--designed to help businesses and careers expand and grow. Highlights include:

• The Main Stage Experience Featuring Tim Tebow: the athlete, entrepreneur and philanthropist will be sharing his "Mission-Possible" life message.
• Fireside Chat with Willy T. Ribbs: the American racing champion will join Beth Paretta (Paretta Autosport, Women in Motorsports North America) on the SEMA Show Main Stage to share his story as a pioneer in motorsports.
• The Future of Automotive Fuel Technology hosted by Margaret Hoover: engage with a panel of global industry leaders, subject-matter experts and thought leaders as they discuss decarbonization through alternative fuel technologies.

Experiencing Innovation

The SEMA Show's experiences spotlight future trends, as demonstrated by exhibitors and builders. Highlights include:

• Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers: a unique program that helps attendees spot trends and see the latest techniques of some of the industry's most influential builders.
• Shell "Performance Unbound" Experience: the interactive Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth will feature Shell scientists sharing details about the fuel maker's new and improved premium gasoline.
• Networking Events: hosted by Jarod DeAnda, the kick-off breakfast and awards banquet bring industry professionals together for networking and provide the backdrop for new product award winners, and other honors, including the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement, Manufacturer of the Year, Channel Partner of the Year, SEMA Person of the Year, SEMA Gen-III Innovator of the Year, and SEMA Content Creator of the Year awards.

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!   

And, it’s never too early to start your SEMA Show plan. Create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app. 

The Featured Products Showcase returns to the 2023 PRI Show, helping manufacturers promote their products to buyers and media throughout the event, December 7-9, at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis.

The PRI Show is the epicenter of the motorsports industry and gives race teams, racers, resellers, buyers and media access to the industry's top products and trends. Relocated this year to the ICC Capitol Connector, the Featured Products Showcase highlights the newest and most popular motorsports products. 

In addition to attracting buyers and media at the Show, participation in the Featured Products Showcase includes:

• Access to professional photographs of all Showcase products taken on-site for promotional use.
• Product promotion via PRI social networks and PRI Magazine, the racing industry publication distributed to thousands of industry professionals, many with purchasing influence.
• Access to the Featured Products Awards program.
• Feature listing in the online exhibitor search and exhibitor floorplan listing.

"The Featured Products Showcase provides the highest visibility to the racing industry's newest products," said PRI Trade Show Director Karin Davidson. "It's an exclusive, cost-effective opportunity for our exhibitors to increase product awareness." 

All 2023 PRI Show exhibitors are eligible to participate in the Featured Products Showcase and may enter up to five products. 

Submissions made before the Friday, December 1, early-bird pricing deadline are $50 for the first product and $75 for additional products (five products maximum per exhibitor). After the deadline the cost is $100 for the first item and $125 for each additional product. For more information and to enter, visit here.

The 2023 PRI Show will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, machinery, simulation, and testing technologies, and trailers for the racing industry in a single location. PRI encompasses all forms of motorsports and attracts attendees from all 50 states and all over the world, including professional race teams, retail shops, warehouse distributors, engine builders, fabricators, dealers, installers, jobbers, and media. To register, visit PRI2023.com/Attend.

Keystone Automotive Operations Names Mike Katz VP of Sales

Keystone Automotive Operations, the Exeter, Pennsylvania-based distribution company for the automotive aftermarket, has announced that Specialty Segment Vice President of Sales Fred Petrivelli will retire after 13 years with the company and effective at year's end. 

Mike Katz, a long-time aftermarket industry professional, will join Keystone as vice president of sales, assuming the same responsibilities and reporting relationships of the existing position held by Petrivelli.

Petrivelli served in multiple sales roles throughout his tenure with the company prior to being promoted to vice president in 2015. Over the course of a career spanning more than 40 years, he has held positions with the MSD Performance Group as well as Champion Spark Plug/Cooper Industries before joining Keystone in 2010.

Katz brings an extensive aftermarket industry background that includes a lengthy tenure with Weather Guard/Werner and, most recently, spending six years with HD Supply/Whitecap.

For more information, visit keystoneautomotive.com.

By SEMA Editors

There are five weeks until the aftermarket industry converges in Las Vegas for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3. As exhibitors gear up to connect with a projected 160,000 buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, here's a list of key deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of all of the deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, which are also detailed below.

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Placing Freeman orders before the Thursday, September 28 discount deadline, which offers prices up to 40% off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show. Our partners at Freeman are here to help answer any questions about preparing for the SEMA Show and maximizing savings. Email sema@freeman.com or call 888-508-5054 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. PDT) to connect directly.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists. 

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

• October 13: Shipping of Carpet to Advance Warehouse--CARPET/PAD only. 
• October 13: After-Hours Events.
• October 13: After-Hours Event--Proof of Security (Required if having an after-hours event). 
• October 13: Meeting/Function space reservation.
• October 16: Booth Catering Order Service--CENTERPLATE.
• October 18: Tents/Canopies--Full Circle Events.
• October 18: Freight--Last day freight will be accepted at the warehouse without penalty.
• October 19: Hanging sign/banner shipments to advance Freeman Warehouse.
• October 19: New Product Showcase advance shipments to Freeman Warehouse.
• October 20: Photography Order--Expo Ease
• October 20: Plant and Floral Order--Expo Ease
• October 26: Freight--1st Day Shipments accepted at LVCC (refer to Target Floor Plan)
• October 27: Vehicle Detailing (Advanced Rate)--ShowFleet
• November 2: Last Day to Pick Up Banquet Tickets--12:00 p.m. deadline
• November 3: Members Lounge Conference Room Reservation by 3 p.m.
• November 3: Online Registration Closes at 2 p.m.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers, is gearing up to be one of the best to date. The prestigious competition is judged by industry experts, with awards presented to individuals who have demonstrated extreme talent, creativity and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks, SUVs, sport compacts and luxury and exotic builds. And good news for builders: entries are still open for the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers through Friday, October 13.

Entrants of the Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers, can:

• Get exposure through media coverage in top publications and online sites.
• Have content generated on your build, your products and your story.
• Grow your notoriety and have your shop stand out on social media.
• Network with top builders from around the globe.
• Be part of the one-hour "Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers" TV special.

For more information and to enter, visit semashow.com/botb.

By SEMA News Editors

See the latest news from exhibitors of the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. 

SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!  

And, it's never too early to start your SEMA Show plan. Create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app. 

TMI Products TRIM Awards Returns to the SEMA Show

The TMI TRIM Awards will return to the SEMA Show following its successful inaugural launch at the 2022 event when the Best of Show Champ title went to Wes and Vivian Rhydell for their impressive '41 Chevy two-door Fleetline, a creation by Rad Rides by Troy. 

The TRIM Awards gained significant momentum after its partnership with Barrett-Jackson, which culminated in the TRIM Awards Road Tour--a nationwide search for the best TMI-equipped vehicles. The judges selected Dana Estes' C10 as the Road Show Champ, earning him a coveted spotlight at the SEMA Show, where his vehicle will be in the TMI Products Booth #V196 in the Central Hall. 

TMI is not just awarding custom trophies to winners. Each recipient will also receive fantastic prizes from esteemed industry partners, including an invitation to the 2024 Barrett-Jackson Cup in Scottsdale, Arizona, courtesy of Barrett-Jackson, as well as prizes from Mothers Polish, FiTech and Optima Batteries. Individual category winners will also be presented with a TMI $500 voucher, while the Best of Show Champion will receive a certificate for a complete TMI interior for their next build, valued at $10,000.   

Expert Panel of Judges 

The TRIM Awards will be presented by a distinguished panel of industry insiders, including:   

• Kevin Oeste: Host of V8 Speed & Resto Shop and the voice of the 2023 SEMA Show.
• Sean Holman: Owner of Use For Adventure Agency and co-host of "The Truck Show Podcast." 
• Sara Morosan: The 2021 SEMA Person of the Year, multi-Ford Design award winner, and owner of LGE/CTS Motorsports. 
• Theresa Contreras: PPG Brand ambassador, Multi Ford Design award winner and owner of Baja Forged. 
• Marcel Venable and Jason Mulligan: Co-owners of Auto Revolution and "Car Guy Confessions," representing the custom automotive video team. 

How to Enter 

To enter your vehicle in this year's TMI TRIM Awards, it must first be on display at the 2023 SEMA Show. Having a TMI Interior in the vehicle is not a requirement as many of the awards are a celebration of creativity and design. Winners must be present during the awards ceremony, 

The awards ceremony will take place at the second TMI Products Booth #24477 in Central Hall at 12:00 p.m. PDT on Wednesday, November 1. Winners must be present during the ceremony to receive their trophies and bask in their well-deserved recognition. Interested applicants can enter at tmiproducts.com/blog/tmi-s-trim-awards-2023.

TRIM Awards Categories 

1. Best Car: Open to any car featuring TMI seats. 
2. Best Truck: Open to any truck featuring TMI seats. 
3. Best Custom SUV or Wagon: Open to any SUV or wagon, whether two-door or four-door. 
4. Best Full Interior: Open to any vehicle running a full TMI interior, including all available components from that model line. 
5. Most Creative: Awarded for the best use of patterns, colors, and overall execution. 
6. Best Color-Matching: Recognizing the best use of patterns, colors, and stitching that matches the vehicle's exterior. 
7. Best Custom Car Interior (open to all Cars at the show): This can be any vehicle with any type of custom interior. 
8. Best Custom Truck Interior (open to all Trucks at the show): This can be any vehicle with any type of custom interior. 
9. Fan Favorite (Chosen on Social Media): Finalists chosen by TRIM Award Judges will be displayed on TMI Social Media channels for audience voting. 
10. Best of Show Champion: Judges will vote on their favorite vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, crowning it with the TRIM Award's highest honor. 

The TRIM Awards Rules 

To compete for the TRIM awards, entrants must have their vehicles already registered for display at the SEMA Show before registering for the TMI TRIM Awards here. Judging will begin on Tuesday afternoon, October 31, with the announcement of the top 20 vehicles from TMI's SEMA booth. 

The crowning of the TRIM Champion will take place at TMI Products Booth #24477, on Wednesday, November 1, 12:15 p.m. PDT.

Get the complete details and enter here.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) has named Kirstin Backes, sales and marketing program manager at COBB Tuning, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Backes in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry? 

Kirstin Backes: I grew up in a family that pursued motorsports all over the board, including off-roading and desert racing. While I did have some fun on the dragstrip and worked in the more "traditional" performance/hot-rod space for years, I found myself drawn more towards off-road adventure in my personal life. Ultimately, I want to help make modifying your truck--whether it's on- or off-road--more accessible and fun for other enthusiasts like me. 

SEMA News: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?  

KB: As a long-time industry volunteer, volunteering with TORA was a no-brainer. It's important to keep the voice of both enthusiasts and professionals in different parts of the aftermarket in the ear of the association at the board level and beyond, and working with TORA is a great way to do it. For me, that means keeping the focus of the association (and the Show) on where the aftermarket is going without sacrificing the legacy that got us here. I also think it's a great way to make sure that the interests of truck and off-road-focused enthusiasts and businesses are fairly represented when we're facing legislative challenges in things like land use, which can be missed when our market segments get overlooked. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

KB: Don't be afraid to engage with SEMA beyond the Show in October and November. Get to as many networking events as you can, and get to know the people who work in the aftermarket outside the walls of your own company. It's changed my career trajectory entirely, and I've been lucky to make some great friends along the way.

SN: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle?  

KB: I recently purchased a long-time dream truck of mine--a Toyota Tundra--and I'm loving it more and more with every drive. So far, it's only done the long road trip home and some local exploration in the southeast, but I'm looking forward to a week or so in the desert soon! 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.   

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Business Members looking to supercharge their network and establish invaluable connections in their market niche can RSVP now for SEMA Show Council and Network events. 

As the industry gathers for the world's largest automotive aftermarket trade event, the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, the council and network events will be the go-to destination for members to forge meaningful relationships with industry peers and leaders in their specialized market segment. The dedicated gatherings make it easy to connect with businesses from almost every automotive niche, whether you are involved in hot rods and restoration, truck and off-road, automotive technology, automotive restyling or wheels and tires. 

There are also customized events for women in the industry and those aged 39 and under, offering a chance for individuals to grow their network and discover resources for enhancing their careers.   

"Networking at the SEMA Show is crucial for growing one's professional network," said Zane Clark, SEMA vice president of membership, education, research and councils and networks. "These events prioritize connections while also providing a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate the industry with friends in the process."  

From receptions and happy hours to meetings and lunches, each event is exclusively crafted to help members of each market segment make the most out of their SEMA Show experience. The inclusive environments allow for engaging conversations where attendees can share experiences and exchange ideas with people who understand their industry inside and out.

Explore the event schedule and RSVP for events at this link.

By Ashley Reyes

Builders and engineers who are featuring a vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31--November 3 in Las Vegas, have until Wednesday, October 25, to submit their entries for the new SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year award. The award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle or features an aspect that goes beyond just physical appearance. 

The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering.

"While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality," said Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs. "It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations."

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 25, at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central (Booth #10001, Central Hall) on Thursday, November 2, at the SEMA Show.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Show exhibiting companies and industry members have until Monday, October 16, to secure their table at the Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast. The event, to be held on Thursday, November 2, from 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. PDT in West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center, is a staple of the SEMA Show Student Program that connects automotive aftermarket leaders with the industry's future workforce. 

By hosting a table, industry members will be able to share their company's journey and help guide and inspire the next generation of automotive professionals. It also serves as a great recruitment tool and the chance to create quality connections with students eager to jumpstart their automotive careers. 

Participation is free, and the event simply requires one-and-a-half hours from a company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required. Register your company here.

Questions can be directed to Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs, at chriss@sema.org or 909-978-6692.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) issued a ruling that automakers cannot use cybersecurity to limit access to critical vehicle repair data in the European Union. The international court victory reinforces the importance of a fair and competitive market for the automotive aftermarket. 

SEMA is monitoring the impacts of the ECJ ruling on our efforts to pass legislation domestically codifying the right to repair and modify motor vehicles in the United States. As many vehicle manufacturers are limiting access to critical repair information and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), SEMA remains steadfast in ensuring that the automotive aftermarket and consumers have the right to choose where they can have their vehicles repaired or modified in the future. 

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Carglass Germany, a subsidiary of Belron, and A.T.U., Germany's largest chain of auto repair shops, against Fiat Chrysler, which became Stellantis after a 2021 merger, in German court. The lawsuit was then referred to the ECJ since it focuses on a United Nations (UN) regulation of cybersecurity after Fiat Chrysler argued they were bound by the UN regulation that requires manufacturers to have cybersecurity defenses in their vehicles.

A key consideration for the ECJ was the importance of cyber security. The court's decision confirms that vehicle manufacturers can adequately address cybersecurity issues without imposing restrictions on the aftermarket, providing the aftermarket industry with legal certainty throughout the European Union.  

The ECJ ruling will have a larger global impact on car manufacturers since 53 other countries follow the UN cybersecurity rule that requires vehicles to be equipped with cybersecurity defenses before they are allowed to be sold in their respective markets. The United States does not enforce the UN regulation domestically, but the ruling may advance SEMA and our coalition partners in our legislative efforts to codify the Right to Repair federally. H.R. 906, REPAIR Act, addresses similar cybersecurity concerns that automakers have used against right-to-repair efforts. 

You can read more about SEMA's efforts on the Right to Repair by visiting sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair.