The Retrofit Source, (TRS), a leading designer, marketer, distributor and e-commerce retailer of performance automotive lighting solutions, has announced that Brian Reese has joined the company as CEO. He succeeds Matt Kossoff, who will become TRS’ chief product officer will and remain on the board of directors.
Reese is a veteran automotive industry executive and former CEO of Race Winning Brands, a manufacturer of racing and high-performance parts sold to automotive and powersports markets. He has more than 20 years of experience fueling premium brands with innovative products and serving customers with best-in-class support in the automotive aftermarket.
TRS offers premium automotive lighting products for enthusiasts and need-based customers looking to increase the performance and aesthetic of their headlights, taillights and accent lights. The company features industry-leading proprietary brands including Morimoto, Profile Performance and GTR Lighting that are sold through its reputable e-commerce websites including The Retrofit Source, Headlight Revolution and XenonDepot within the U.S. and internationally. TRS complements its in- house brands with recognizable third-party brands to provide the largest assortment of high-end lighting products and serves as a one-stop-shop for all aftermarket lighting solutions. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the company was among the first to commercialize custom aftermarket headlights.
“The Retrofit Source impressed me as a proven trendsetter, and an authority within the space, that created the standard in automotive lighting and continues to lead the market with premium brands,” said Reese. “The company has built an impressive following of engaged enthusiasts not only by creating innovative products from leading brands, but also by educating customers across video channels and social platforms with in-depth product reviews and how-to content. I welcomed the opportunity to join founder Matt Kossoff and the management team to lead The Retrofit Source in its next phase of growth.”
“I’m excited to welcome Brian Reese as the CEO of The Retrofit Source as his experienced leadership and automotive focus bring great value to the team,” said TRS founder Matt Kossoff. “With a huge addressable market in front of us, I’m thrilled to renew my focus on product and continue feeding our company’s forward momentum by driving trendsetting innovation.”
TRS partnered with Kian Capital, a leading middle-market private equity firm who invested in the business in March 2018. Rick Cravey, partner at Kian Capital, commented, “We are excited to partner with Brian Reese to help the Company capitalize on its many opportunities and accelerate its plans for expansion. Brian is a proven leader in the automotive aftermarket and brings experience scaling similar businesses both organically and through acquisitions. We are enthusiastic about working with Brian and the management to continue on the company’s impressive growth trajectory.”
