From BodyShop Business
DIAMOND BAR, Calif. – The 2013 SEMA Show will include enhanced features for the collision repair and refinish markets, including an expanded show floor area, targeted activities both inside and outside the Las Vegas Convention Center and an in-depth educational program. The upgrades come as a result of fast-growing interest from both exhibitors and buyers in the collision market segment, SEMA says.
“As interest grows and the landscape changes, we continue to evolve and are excited about the plans for 2013,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA VP of events and communications. According to the organization, more than 20,000 SEMA Show buyers have expressed an interest in collision repair products, and 87 percent of all buyers have buying influence.
Last year’s SEMA Show featured 330 exhibitors in the Collision Repair & Refinish area and the Tools & Equipment area, the two sections where many exhibitors feature products for the collision market. For 2013, the Collision Repair & Refinish section will expand into an adjacent area of the LV Hotel, accommodating up to 20,000 square feet of additional space.
“The expanded floor section makes it really easy and convenient for buyers to see all the products in the collision market within a defined area,” said MacGillivray.
Those in the collision market are also able to network and expand their knowledge during several industry meetings and educational events taking place. The Collision Industry Conference (CIC), the National Auto Body Council (NABC) and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) are among the groups hosting meetings during the SEMA Show. A comprehensive Repairer Driver Education program also will be presented by SCRS.
“From the impressive growth of exhibitors, to attendees who are reaching out to SCRS already looking to register and ask questions about our education, it is clear the collision industry is really excited about this year’s show,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. “Each year, we have taken feedback from past attendees and used it to amplify our upcoming offerings. This year, we are adding to the format with designated tracks that can guide repair industry professionals through the weeklong program based on their core interests in what they need for their business.
"Some want to better understand how to manage their business and what makes it tick, while some are looking for ways to enhance and grow it through new business opportunities or untapped customer bases. Others may be looking for ways to best position their business to make it more attractive when they wish to sell it, or learn how to compete in a consolidating marketplace. Regardless of interest, there is something for everyone and the objective remains the same: to address real issues faced by collision repairers, while providing tangible information that they can directly apply to their business when they return home.”
The 2013 SEMA Show is set for Nov. 5-8, 2013, in Las Vegas. For more information, go to http://www.semashow.com.
