2013 SEMA show to feature expanded show floor area for collision repair and refinish market

The 2013 SEMA Show will include enhanced features for the collision repair and refinish market, including an expanded show floor area, targeted activities both inside and outside the Las Vegas Convention Center and an unsurpassed educational program. The upgrades come as a result of the fast-growing interest from both exhibitors and buyers in the collision market segment.

“As interest grows and the landscape changes, we continue to evolve and are excited about the plans for 2013,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Last year’s SEMA Show featured 330 exhibitors in the collision repair and refinish area and the tools and equipment area — the two sections where many exhibitors feature products for the collision repair market. These exhibitors were housed in more than 88,000 square feet in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. For 2013, the collision repair and 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. More than 20,000 SEMA Show buyers expressed an interest in collision repair products, and 87 percent of all buyers have buying influence.

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 amongst the groups hosting meetings during the SEMA Show.

A comprehensive repairer driver education program is also presented by the SCRS.

“We are really excited for this year’s Show,” said Aaron Schulenburg, SCRS executive director. Schulenburg says that the 2013 repairer driven education program will include fresh and inspiring content, while continuing to remain relevant to collision repairers.

“Each year we have taken the feedback and used it to amplify our upcoming offerings,” he said, noting that 2013 will be the group’s fourth year partnering with SEMA to present the educational program. “The objective, however, 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 Tuesday through Friday, Nov. 5 to 8, in Las Vegas. The annual event typically attracts more than 130,000 individuals from 125 countries, making the Show the premier automotive trade event in the world. Manufacturers come to the event to showcase products that enhance the styling, performance and functionality of cars, trucks and SUVs. For details, visit www.SEMAShow.com.