The 2022 SEMA Show included all the excitement and familiar features that make the Show the industry’s annual must-attend event. This year, the Show grew by 35% from the previous year—a clear demonstration that the industry is back to full strength. Many exhibitors grew their footprint, taking advantage of a newly expanded Las Vegas Convention Center.
A Show of Excellence
chads
Sun, 01/01/2023 - 19:08
Battle of the Builders 2022
chads
Sun, 01/01/2023 - 18:15
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One of the annual SEMA Show’s many distinctions is its weeklong display of greatness. From new products and innovations to the groundbreaking people driving the specialty aftermarket to new heights, the SEMA Show reflects the industry’s reach for excellence. Perhaps that’s the reason the Show’s award ceremonies resonate so deeply with thousands of Show participants.
Mike and Jim Ring of Spring Green, Wisconsin, garnered top honors at the ninth annual SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polishes competition at the 2022 SEMA Show, held November 1–4 in Las Vegas. The announcement was made at the start of SEMA Ignited, the official SEMA Show after-party designed to celebrate the builders and showcase products from the trade-only Show.
A Businesswoman's Bronco
chads
Sun, 01/01/2023 - 18:05
It was the culmination of a hectic 90-day build schedule that engaged more than 100 volunteer wrenches ranging in experience from novice to expert. It took the combined efforts of dozens of aftermarket companies and installation facilities, and it took place across two time zones. In the end, however, the build was a smashing success. The SEMA Businesswomens’ Network (SBN) All-Female Build project, a Ford Bronco four-door Wildtrak, made its debut at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas last November before a crowd of hundreds of industry and media professionals.
Courtesy In & Out Customs
chads
Sun, 01/01/2023 - 17:54
Throughout the South, In & Out Customs Owner Sage Thomas, aka, The Donkmaster, is known as the king of big-wheel racing. Born in Savannah, Georgia, and now based in Charleston, South Carolina, Thomas built his first Donk at 16 and dove headlong into the racing scene. Now he’s formed the National Donk Racing Association (NDRA), the first professional sanctioning body dedicated to Donk and big-wheel drags, which are exploding in popularity. His many fans follow him on Donkmaster TV on YouTube and @1_Donkmaster on Instagram.
SEMA to Go Citywide in Las Vegas
chads
Sun, 01/01/2023 - 17:41
Among the highlights of the 2022 SEMA Industry Awards Banquet was the announcement of a bold five-year vision to expand the SEMA Show into an “all-city” Las Vegas experience. Officially called SEMA Week, the plan seeks to develop the world’s most passionate and exciting automotive event for both industry businesses and vehicle enthusiasts. SEMA Week will kick off this November 2023 with multiple new concepts, activities and events continuing to be phased in over the five-year roll-out period.
The 2022 Showcase featured nearly 2,000 products across multiple categories, including the freshly added advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and vehicle electrification categories. Literally hundreds of industry brands participated, with everything from street performance and racing to off-roading, mobile electronics, and interior and exterior offerings on full display.
Each year prior to the SEMA Show, exhibitors are polled on the new vehicles that, in their judgment, represent the best opportunities for accessorization via the aftermarket for the coming year. Vehicles are chosen in six distinct classes—including a brand-new class for 2022, EV of the Year—and the winners are announced ahead of the start of the Show. This year’s announcement was made on Monday, October 31, on the eve of the 2022 Show. The winners are listed at right.
The specialty-equipment industry saw record-high sales over the past two years, as consumers continued to work on their vehicles during the pandemic. Although this record growth is beginning to level off and subside, sales remain solid and above pre-pandemic levels. The industry is also optimistic for the future. Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, supply-chain issues and rising costs, most companies within the industry expect sales, revenue and demand to stay the same or grow in 2023.
The automotive industry—and consequently the aftermarket—has entered a period of unprecedented change. Emerging technologies; new ways of doing business; and market, social and governmental forces are creating a barrage of opportunities and challenges for our industry. As a trade organization, SEMA is committed to helping members navigate industry trends so they can future-proof their businesses, succeed and prosper.