US Speedo at the SEMA Show: Tips for Success
For over 20 years, US Speedo has proudly participated in the SEMA Show, never missing a single year. Each fall, we travel to Las Vegas, Nevada, to take part in “The Big One,” an event that draws an estimated 150,000 attendees. While the industry evolves each year, one thing remains constant: every time we return from a successful SEMA Show, we’re re-energized and refocused.
At the SEMA Show, we engage with countless visitors, discuss our custom gauge faces, and install our unique products. But perhaps most importantly, we listen closely to our customers’ feedback. Understanding the wants and needs of our customers is the cornerstone of our annual trip to SEMA. With that in mind, here are our top tips for having a successful SEMA Show.
1. Have a Plan!
The SEMA Show is enormous, with over 2,400 exhibitors spread across a massive venue. To put it into perspective, if you tried to visit every single booth during the event, you’d only have seconds at each one! Planning ahead is crucial. We schedule meetings and custom gauge face installations before the event to ensure we make the most of our time. Respecting others’ time—whether it’s your customers or industry contacts—is key to a successful show.
2. Show Something Unique!
SEMA is an overwhelming sensory experience, with new and exciting products everywhere you look. To stand out, you need to captivate potential customers. This can be challenging, as many attendees return year after year. Instead of focusing on flashy gimmicks, concentrate on offering what your market truly desires. Planning for SEMA should begin in the first quarter of the year. For instance, in 2018, we launched our Daytona Edition Custom Gauge Face for the redesigned 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL, and we focused heavily on this product at the show.
3. Participate in the New Product Showcase
The New Product Showcase is an excellent way to attract foot traffic to your booth. Over the years, we’ve had several award-winning products featured here. It’s the perfect place to display your best new product, and make sure to feature it prominently at your booth as well.
4. Network, Network, Network!
SEMA is a prime opportunity to network with other aftermarket companies, builders, and upfitters. For us, there’s no better way to showcase our products than by installing custom gauge faces in vehicles at other booths. These installations help us form lasting partnerships and relationships with others in the industry. Plus, it’s a lot of fun! The aftermarket community is filled with passionate, talented people, and we love connecting with them.
5. Have Fun and Enjoy the Show!
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of SEMA, but don’t forget to enjoy the experience. Look around and appreciate the impressive range of aftermarket products. Try not to focus solely on your own booth; instead, play the role of the customer. What products catch your eye? What excites you? Keeping track of the latest trends and technologies in the industry will help you make informed decisions for your own product lineup.
6. Follow Up After the Show
The week following SEMA is critical. After the whirlwind of the event, it’s easy to forget about the many contacts you made. But to turn those connections into lasting relationships, it’s essential to follow up promptly. Reach out to your new contacts to continue the conversation and nurture those business relationships.
By incorporating these tips into your SEMA strategy, you can maximize your experience and ensure that your time at the show is as productive and impactful as possible!
