SEMA 2000
As the SEMA show wrapped up in Vegas, this Racerchick rubbed her sore feet
and reflected on what an amazing show it was. It had everything; every
imaginable aftermarket automotive item you could ask for, some of the
funkiest vehicles I have ever seen - add some great friends to the mix and
viola! It was the recipe for the show of this Racerchick's dreams.
If you are not familiar with SEMA,
 you certainly are not involved in this
industry. In 1963, a small group of manufacturers and suppliers of
performance equipment got together and formed "Speed Equipment Manufacturers
Association." All the members were founders of companies that produced this
aftermarket speed equipment and together they bound to achieve practical and
straightforward goals:
-- develop uniform standards for certain products used in motorsports
competition
-- promote the industry as a supplier to consumers involved in
constructive activities of recreational and hobbyist value;
-- develop programs to encourage improved business practices among member
companies;
-- and hold regular meetings to achieve unity as a business
organization.
SEMA eventually became the Specialty Equipment Market Association,
broadening it's base of companies to include more than 3,400 corporate members.
What I found to be enjoyable and informative were the many seminars that
took place throughout the day. One in particular stood out; Kay Presto, a
renowned automotive journalist spoke about selling retail to the female
customer. Yes, Racerchicks ARE consumers. Remember her name and look out
for her work - she is a leader in her field. The Businesswoman's network breakfast was a big hit as well. Human resource
professionals and financial advisors - they were available to help both the
company and consumer achieve what they were looking for. The only sad thing
to report is that there are still a few companies out there that think
bikini-clad Playmates are an appropriate way to drum up business. Too bad
they are forgetting about their fully-clothed female customers and we do
take note - my days of wearing anything I can floss with are over. Perhaps
Kay Presto should have left her business card with the owners of the more
flagrantly sexist displays.
 As for now, I hope to dig through the mounds of papers and cards
(leaflets, handouts and business cards and phone numbers)
I brought home and slowly feature some of the great ideas and products we
have seen out there. From the wacky to the necessity, let me know if
there's a favorite of yours and we'll do what we can to feature it.
E-mail me at nika@racerchicks.com
For more
information on SEMA - visit their website at www.sema.org
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