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NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 11, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced KnowledgeFest™, in its second year at the Long Beach Convention Center, marked another success:
- Attendance grew to more than 1500 attendees, including more than 900 retailer and 100 distributer attendees;
- The number of exhibitors increased to 53; occupying more than 70,000 square feet of exhibit space;
- 30 Hours of educational workshops; and
- A record-setting 68 hours of manufacturer trainings.
“Attendance-wise, this year in Long Beach our audience of mobile specialists was on par with last August’s KnowledgeFest Dallas, which is our long-standing flagship event now in its tenth year,” stated Chris Cook, MEA president. “This year’s increase in the number of exhibitors maxed-out the Long Beach show floor in its present configuration. We have room to expand for next year, and we’re planning some interesting new things to take advantage of that space.”
This weekend, March 15-17, KnowledgeFest sets its sights on Indianapolis. The Friday through Sunday event at the Indiana Convention Center brings its industry-recognized educational and training program and trade show floor to the Indy marketplace.
“2019 marks our fifth year in Indy. Yet, some in our industry still sell the Indy market short,” according to Cook. “KnowledgeFest Indy continues to grow with year-over-year growth. Attendee pre-registration is up more than 30 percent this year. Indy covers the market east of the Mississippi: the east coast and near east—cities, such as Pittsburgh and Cleveland. It's dealers from these markets who don’t show up for CES but are coming to Indy. There are manufacturers who recognize the value. After several expansions, our 2019 show floor is sold out.”
Kicking-off Indy, after a full day of educational sessions and manufacturer trainings, the show floor opens Friday at 4 PM for “Beer & Business”. This business-first event provides dealers and vendors with a relaxed setting to meet, see first-hand new products and do some business.
KnowledgeFest 2019 concludes with its Dallas event: August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center.
2020 KnowledgeFest Dates:
- Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 7-9, 2020
- Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
- NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
- Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 21-23, 2020
About KnowledgeFest
KnowledgeFest is now coast to coast. Its four regional trade-only events cover the eastern, southeastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.." style="color: #000000;">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.
Winners from first phase of Industry Awards are semifinalists for top honors
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS., August 26, 2020 (MEDIAWIRE) — The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the winners from the first phase of the 2020 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The announcement comes after industry nominees submitted videos describing their business or professions. Judges appointed by the association reviewed the videos and selected the winners, comprising the Top 50 Installers, Top 50 Retailers and Top 20 Sales Professionals. The complete list of winners is posted at the official Industry Awards website, meindustryawards.com.
“I’d like to thank our judges for their diligence, objectivity and hard work during the first phase of our industry’s most important tradition,” said Solomon Daniels, program administrator. “In an industry where it seems everyone knows or knows of everyone else, it’s especially difficult to put all that aside and make judgements based on the merits of each submission.”
The judges for the first phase were Tim Baillie, current Installer of the Year; Richard Basler, director of membership at MEA; Chris Pate, owner of Mobile Toys Inc. in College Station, Texas and former Installer of the Year; Matt Schaeffer, former Installer of the Year and lead fabricator at Sound FX and Musaic in Lewes, Del.; and George Smith, owner of Mobileworks in Santa Maria, Calif.
Judges follow a score sheet that matches the requirements of the video, and mark scores based on completeness and depth of knowledge for each answer. They can also award additional points for exceptional insight, creativity, or uniqueness in a submission.
Winners at this stage also qualify as semi-finalists the top honors of Retailer of the Year, Installer of the Year and Sales Pro of the year. Top 50 Installers award recipients can also opt to run for 2020 Trusted Tech, an award given to professional installers who excel more from an electronics standpoint than a design standpoint.
The next phase of the competition features voting by industry professionals and consumers to narrow the semifinalists list down to finalists. These categories are joined by other categories of which industry professionals vote to select top suppliers, reps and rep firms, distributors, and expeditors, as well as retail locations that excel in specific business practices. Voting will begin Thursday, August 27 and run for three weeks.
“Even though the ultimate competition is ongoing, we want to take this opportunity to congratulate our Top 50 and Top 20 winners,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “These are major accomplishments in themselves and represent the hard work and growth of stores and individuals over the past year. It’s great to see that, despite the unprecedented events of the past few months, our industry members continue to strive to be the best and set examples for their peers.”
Voting will take place at meindustryawards.com. Visit the website for additional information on the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest™, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
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Winners from first phase of Industry Awards are semifinalists for top honors
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS., October 30 ,2022 — The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the winners from the first phase of the 2023 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The announcement comes after industry nominees submitted videos describing their business or professions. Judges appointed by the association reviewed the videos and selected the winners, comprising the Top 50 Installers, Top 50 Retailers and Top 20 Sales Professionals. The complete list of winners is posted at the official Industry Awards website, meindustryawards.com.
Winners at this stage also qualify as semi-finalists the top honors of Retailer of the Year, Installer of the Year and Sales Pro of the year. Top 50 Installers award recipients are also entered to run for 2023 Trusted Tech, an award given to professional installers who excel more from an electronics standpoint than a design standpoint.
The next phase of the competition features voting by industry professionals and consumers to narrow the semifinalists list down to finalists. These categories are joined by other categories of which industry professionals vote to select top suppliers, reps and rep firms, distributors, and expeditors, as well as the new vendor support tech award. Voting will begin Thursday, November 3, 2023 and run until Sunday, November 13, 2022 at midnight.
“Even though the ultimate competition is ongoing, we want to take this opportunity to congratulate our Top 50 and Top 20 winners,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “These are major accomplishments in themselves and represent the hard work and growth of stores and individuals over the past year. It’s great to see that, despite the unprecedented events of the past few months, our industry members continue to strive to be the best and set examples for their peers.”
Voting will take place at meindustryawards.com. Visit the website for additional information on the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest™, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- February 3-5, 2023 – Las Vegas, NV
- May 19-21, 2023 – Orlando, FL
- June 23-25, 2023 – Indianapolis, IN
- August 25-27, 2023 – Dallas, TX
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About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest™, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
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Winners from first phase of Industry Awards are semifinalists for top honors
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS., October 11, 2023 — The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the winners from the first phase of the 2024 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The announcement comes after industry nominees submitted videos describing their business or professions. Judges appointed by the association reviewed the videos and selected the winners, comprising the Top 50 Installers, Top 50 Retailers and Top 20 Sales Professionals. The complete list of winners is posted at the official Industry Awards website, meindustryawards.com.
Winners at this stage also qualify as semi-finalists the top honors of Retailer of the Year, Installer of the Year and Sales Pro of the year. Top 50 Installers award recipients are also entered to run for 2024 Trusted Tech, an award given to professional installers who excel more from an electronics standpoint than a design standpoint.
The next phase of the competition features voting by industry professionals and consumers to narrow the semifinalists list down to finalists. These categories are joined by other categories of which industry professionals vote to select top suppliers, reps and rep firms, distributors, and expeditors, as well as the new vendor support tech award. Voting will begin Wednesday, October 12, 2023 and run until Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at midnight.
“Even though the ultimate competition is ongoing, we want to take this opportunity to congratulate our Top 50 and Top 20 winners,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “These are major accomplishments in themselves and represent the hard work and growth of stores and individuals over the past year. It’s great to see that our industry members continue to strive to be the best and set examples for their peers.”
Voting will take place at meindustryawards.com. Visit the website for additional information on the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- February 2-4, 2024 – Las Vegas, NV
- April 19-21, 2024 - Nashville, TN
- June 7-9, 2024 - Atlantic City, NJ
- August 23-25, 2024 – Dallas, TX
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest™, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
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Winners from first phase of Industry Awards are semifinalists for top honors
North Andover, MA, September 27, 2025 — The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the winners from the first phase of the 2026 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The announcement comes after industry nominees submitted videos describing their business or professions. Judges appointed by the association reviewed the videos and selected the winners, comprising the Top 50 Installers, Top 50 Retailers, Top 20 Sales Professionals, Top 10 Trusted Techs, and Top 5 Rookies. The complete list of winners is posted at the official Industry Awards website, meindustryawards.com.
Winners at this stage also qualify as semi-finalists the top honors of Retailer of the Year, Installer of the Year, Sales Pro of the year, Trusted Tech of the Year, and Rookie of the Year.
The next phase of the competition features voting by industry professionals and consumers to narrow the semifinalists list down to finalists. These categories are joined by other categories of which industry professionals vote to select top suppliers, reps and rep firms, distributors, and expeditors, as well as the vendor support tech award. Voting will begin Tuesday, September 30, 2025 and will run until Sunday, October 19, 2025 at midnight.
“Even though the ultimate competition is ongoing, we want to take this opportunity to congratulate our Top 50, Top 20, Top 10, and Top 5 winners,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “These are major accomplishments in themselves and represent the hard work and growth of stores and individuals over the past year. It’s great to see that our industry members continue to strive to be the best and set examples for their peers.”
Voting will take place at meindustryawards.com. Visit the website for additional information on the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest™, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- Las Vegas, NV – February 3-5, 2026
- Atlantic City, NJ – June 5-7, 2026
- Dallas Fort Worth, TX – August 28-30, 2026
Media Contact:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(978) 645-6434
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MEA Announces Enhanced Schedule, New Exhibitors, and Increased Attendance for KnowledgeFest Dallas
North Andover, MA – September 5, 2024 – Mobile Electronics Association is pleased to announce an important update to the show floor schedule for the upcoming KnowledgeFest Dallas event. In response to feedback and to optimize the overall experience for both exhibitors and attendees, we have revised the schedule to enhance exhibit floor traffic and streamline event operations.
Starting this year, we will be implementing the following changes:
- -- Additional Exhibit Floor Time: We are extending the exhibit floor schedule on Friday to include more opportunities for engagement, including an extended "Beer and Biz" networking session.
- -- Sunday Schedule Adjustment: The 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM exhibit period on Sunday has been removed. This adjustment will allow attendees to focus on the education workshops.
Sony and MSC America where recently added to the exhibitor lineup which already includes brands The 12V Dashboard, Audiofrog, Audiopipe, BackRack, Bak, CompuStar, DB Drive, Directed, DOW Technologies, Dynamat, Epsilon, Fahrenheit, Firstech, Go Rhino, Grom Audio, Harman, Havoc, Husky, iDatalink Maestro, Infinity, InstallerNet, Intoxalock, JBL, Kicker Maestro, Momento, NFab, Peel 3d, Power Acoustic, PrecisionPower, Major League FAB, MotoTV, RealTruck, RuggedRidge, SiriusXM, Snap Finance, Soundstream, Stetsom, Suono Audio, Trulli, Truxedo, Undercover, Wattstar, and Voxx.
"We are excited about hosting another successful Dallas event with early registration retailer attendance trending 20% more than last year" said Chris Cook, President of Mobile Electronics Association. “with the addition of Truck Tech Expo sponsored by RealTruck and its category specific education, we anticipate a highly engaging and productive event."
Registered retailer attendees will have the unique opportunity to invite a limited number of enthusiast customers for an escorted tour of the show floor exhibits on Saturday afternoon. This initiative aims to provide dealers with a valuable chance to showcase their authorized brands and foster key customer relationships.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com
Media Contact:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
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New extended service plan option now available to MEA members
North Andover, MA – July 29, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today a new partnership with Centricity that will enable MEA members to offer extended service plans to their customers. The service option, Protection Plus from MEA, can be integrated with MEA’s point-of-sale software program, TSS, and is also available as a standalone purchase option. Service plans are available nationwide and include removal and re-installation of covered mobile products for up to three years.
“As the connected devices market grows, we are partnering with companies who share the same vision to offer solutions around these products,” said Mike Kelly of Centricity. “Our product provides benefits to both the customer and retailer, delivering a customer experience beyond the point of sale.”
“We’re excited to partner with Centricity to offer this new service to our members”, said Chris Cook, President, MEA. “Extended service plans present an opportunity for our members to improve the sales experience and build stronger relationships with their customers. They also create an additional revenue stream.”
Protection Plus from MEA will be launched at MEA’s upcoming KnowledgeFest event taking place August 9-11 in Dallas, TX. Visit Mobile-Electronics.com to learn more.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
About Centricity
Centricity, a service and protection powerhouse, provides comprehensive risk management solutions centered around the customer. The company is a privately-held and wholly-owned subsidiary of Bankers Financial Corporation (BFC). Since 1976, BFC has been the corporate parent to a diverse set of businesses, including property and casualty insurance companies, a professional employer organization (PEO) for small business, and a financial services company. With assets over $500 million, Bankers Financial Corporation employs more than 800 associates throughout the United States.
Centricity, a service and protection powerhouse, provides comprehensive risk management solutions centered around the customer. The company is a privately-held and wholly-owned subsidiary of Bankers Financial Corporation (BFC). Since 1976, BFC has been the corporate parent to a diverse set of businesses, including property and casualty insurance companies, a professional employer organization (PEO) for small business, and a financial services company. With assets over $500 million, Bankers Financial Corporation employs more than 800 associates throughout the United States.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – October 16, 2019 – Kerry Moyer, MEA’s vice president of strategic partnerships, has announced he is retiring from MEA. Prior to joining MEA’s senior management team in 2014, Moyer worked with the Consumer Electronics Association (now CTA) and earlier in his career was a partner in a chain of audio-video-mobile electronics stores local to the Washington, DC-area.
Since joining the MEA team, Moyer increased revenue by developing innovative partnership programs for manufacturer members exhibiting at KnowledgeFest. Moyer was instrumental in engaging and supporting new partners and helped launch additional KnowledgeFest events (Indianapolis, Long Beach and soon in Orlando) making KnowledgeFest a national education conference and trade show event.
“I will miss working with my friend and colleague,” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We’ve spent many years together in this industry, and I will miss Kerry’s insight and advice. Many times, he added a voice of reason. Kerry has always brought integrity and customer service to his sales relationships.”
“I have been blessed to work in this industry in jobs that I loved. After 43 years and three careers, I’m going to work on my ‘retirement’ and carry-on with my consulting business. I won’t be sitting still. I plan on cycling and traveling, and I’ll always be on the lookout for new challenges and opportunities.”
MEA will be launching a new more-simplified partnership program for 2020 allowing manufacturer members to customize an offering to meet their marketing, education and budget needs. Chris Cook will be leading the new enterprise program efforts and Kerry Moyer will remain with MEA to provide consultation and support during the transition.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
- March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
- ·May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL
- August 14-16, 2020, Dallas, TX
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – August 2, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), owner and producer of KnowledgeFest™, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lynn Swezey to the position of Director of Member Services. In this role, Swezey will oversee programs and benefits related to MEA’s retail memberships, as well as manage Knowledgefest education tracks and special events.
“With more than 1,100 members and the addition of a fourth KnowledgeFest event coming to Orlando, Fl. in May of 2020, we recognize the need to add resources to our team in order to meet the increasing growth of our retail membership.” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We are so pleased to have Lynn join us at such a crucial time.”
Swezey brings a wide range of experience and connectivity within the 12-volt electronics industry. She also brings with her an intense passion and drive to help improve the ways in which the Association communicates, trains and collaborates with its partners and members.
Swezey began her career in the mobile electronics industry as an Account Executive with D.A.S. Distributors in Palmyra, Pa., managing the New England and upstate New York territories. She also served as an Account Executive with A-Z Autosound a distribution house located in CT. In 2016, Swezey joined the firm of Trent Partners and Associates as a manufacturer’s rep covering the New England and upstate New York territories.
Now in her sixth year working closely with 12-volt partners, Swezey also has a strong sales and marketing background dating back to 2002. She will be immediately taking over some aspects of planning and organizing the Association’s events.
“Since starting in the mobile electronics industry in 2013, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the smartest and proactive retailers and installers in the country,” said Swezey. “I look forward to continuing that work on a larger scale, helping to educate and empower our membership with new benefits and learning opportunities.”
Swezey will be at the upcoming KnowledgeFest event in Dallas, Aug. 9-11. Please join us in Dallas to welcome Lynn to the team. Welcome Lynn Swezey to our industry’s association at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- August 9-11, 2019 - Dallas, TX
- February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
- March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
- May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL
Come Together
One industry, association and purpose.
A little over ten years ago—November 4, 2009 to be exact—I stood on a stage at the SEMA Show with a few other industry leaders to announce the purchase of MERA (now MEA) and that we would be re-launching a new KnowledgeFest on October 10, 2010 (10-10-10) in Dallas, Texas. At that launch, we played a fitting tune: The Beatles’ “Come Together.” Why that song, you ask? It was the prelude for our mission to unite a very fractured industry. It came from a strong desire to create an association that brought a group of talented albeit underrepresented individuals together for a common purpose, to improve upon each other and the industry in the process. To create an association with benefits that either saved or made our members money. One that focused on great education opportunities and provided highly relevant information, thus empowering our industry to thrive.
Bringing Benefits to Specialty Retailers
Back in 2008, the association had dwindled to less than 100 members and was no longer able to support the trade event that had been held every year since 1993. Knowing this, we set out to relaunch the associations premiere trade event, KnowledgeFest. Looking back, it was a great accomplishment and a good first step to creating something that provided a learning environment for the benefit of the entire industry. However, an event was not the only thing to revive. Next, we set out to review the offered benefits from the association and decide how best to move forward with value for our members.
Our goal was to create an association that provided benefits to assist specialty retailers with technology and services. These benefits should either save retailers money, help them make money, or both. We added the industry’s best-known point-of-sale and scheduling software, Total Sales and Scheduling (TSS), to our arsenal. Then we added a long-time standard for vehicle fitment and wiring information, the Mobile Automotive Information Database (MAID). Both were transferred from our parent company, InstallerNet. These two technology offerings provide high value to our members. To date, most of our members use them. Soon after, we added websites and in-store signage solutions to round out these offerings. However, this was only the beginning.
Nurturing Continued Growth Year Over Year
Next, we sought out partners to provide great member benefits that met or exceeded our standards. One of those partners is the Member Savings Program. Our partnership provided benefits that save members thousands of dollars per year through the buying power of a group purchasing alliance made up of over 150 associations.
In an effort to present our members to consumers, we created a consumer-focused website that provides members with a listing including their location, hours of operation, company slogan and links to website and social media sites. Check it out at www.MEAPreferred.com. Take some time to review the benefits, and you’ll find discount shipping programs, savings on payroll processing, free registration to KnowledgeFest events, professional business coaching and Mobile Electronics magazine. These are just some examples of the many cost-saving and money-making benefits of being an MEA member.
Today, MEA is over 1,000 members strong. Your mobile electronics (trade) association consists of manufacturers, retailers and service providers of automotive aftermarket technology products. Through our coast-to-coast offering of KnowledgeFest trade shows and conferences, we can provide top-notch education, networking opportunities and business services designed to advance professionalism and profitability for all of the industry's stakeholders.
Providing Top-Tier Education
Our publication, Mobile Electronics magazine, is the industry’s #1 resource with more than 18,000 digital subscribers. The monthly publication acknowledges top retailers, installers and suppliers through the annual Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
Finally, KnowledgeFest provides a three-day event with emphasis on experience, learning and connecting with others in the mobile electronics industry. These events provide you with the best opportunity to learn from other successful industry professionals at either Long Beach, Calif., Indianapolis, Ind., Orlando, Fla. and or Dallas, Texas. Finishing out 2020 we will celebrate with our first-ever virtual KnowledgeFest.
When it comes to the Mobile Electronics industry, many of us who’ve been around a few years will tell you that when it comes to organizations looking to represent this unique group of people, there have been a few that properly represent all stakeholders. Know that the Mobile Electronics Association will always be here to lead the industry though both the good times and the not-so-good times. I look forward to hearing from you on how we can service you better. Please feel free to contact me or any of our team to learn how you can reap the benefits.
Read the latest issue of Mobile Electronics magazine [Click Here]
4-9-2017 -- MEA (Mobile Electronics Association) has partnered with HR Consulting firm, The SAMMAX GROUP to bring retailers the perfect tool to help them when hiring new employees.
By utilizing employment assessments to test past Mobile Electronics Industry Award winners and other top performers in our industry, SAMMAX has created a baseline for store managers, installers and salespeople that measures traits such as organization, flexibility, imagination, assertiveness, recognition and competitiveness, just to name a few. These traits often define a person’s behavior towards doing a job and are considered important in determining success in any organization, according to SAMMAX. The tool can also be used to evaluate current employees and indentify areas of opportunty to gain greater productivity. "When making a hiring decision, it is of great importance to find the right person. This new tool will provide the information needed to make the right decision the first time." said Chris Cook, president of Mobile Electronics.
Sergio De Oliveira of SAMMAX will present a seminar on Monday, 4/10/2017, discussing the assessments in the context of how they can impact car audio retail managers, installers and sales staff. The details are as follows:
THE HIRING PROCESS: NEW TOOLS TO MAKE BETTER HIRING DECISIONS
Instructor(s): Sergio De Oliveira - SAMMAX Group
John Schwartz - Perfectionist
Track: Owner - Manager
Start Time: 9:30 am
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Location: room 105-106
Description: Learn how to use a new human resources tool to help you make the right hiring decision while avoiding the trap of "gut feelings" and the applicant's "spinning" of abilities. In this session, you will learn how to use a complete employment testing system featuring stand-alone personality tests, honesty tests, and aptitude tests. It even has an assessment for team building! The Hiring Suite® is the online system that that will make the difference between a good and bad new hire. Learn how MEA and SAMMAX GROUP created benchmark profiles specifically for the Mobile Electronics industry that you can use to make better hiring decisions and to evaluate your current team to gain greater productivity.
For the complete schedule, visit KFest.me.
Solomon Daniels will oversee process for 11th straight year
LONG BEACH, CALIF., June 23, 2020 (MEDIAWIRE)—The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced that it has contracted SDG, Inc., a marketing and communications firm specializing in the automotive integration industry, to facilitate the 2020 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. Solomon Daniels, principal of SDG, has administered the awards process for the past 10 years as part of his former role as editor-in-chief of Mobile Electronics magazine. Daniels will oversee and implement the same processes up to the determination of the winners. MEA President Chris Cook will present the winners at the annual awards ceremony, scheduled for September 27 at the Dallas Convention Center during this year’s only remaining KnoweldgeFest event.
The Industry Awards process typically begins in May and runs through to the annual awards ceremony that accompanies the Dallas KnowledgeFest event in August. But the drastic impact of the COVID-19 virus forced the pushback of the remaining three KnowledgeFest education and tradeshow events. The Indianapolis and new Orlando shows have been moved to 2021, and the flagship Dallas event has been shifted to late September this year.
The Mobile Electronics Industry Awards celebrate the best examples of the industry from the retail, technical, supplier and support sectors. The process is divided into three segments to include endorsements from every segment of the industry. Participants submit nominations which are narrowed to a list of semi-finalists. Industry members and consumers then cast votes to determine the finalists in each awards category. In some award categories, winners are chosen from their final vote rankings. For the remainder, finalists are asked to submit additional materials for review, and the winners are selected by a judging body.
“I am extremely happy to be able to continue the tradition of overseeing the Industry Awards, even in this new capacity,” said Daniels. “My commitment has always been to remain a strong advocate and participant in our industry and provide help wherever I can. To be a part of rewarding our most-accomplished performers and sharing their best practices to benefit others is one of the most fulfilling tasks I could ask for.”
Announcements about the awards process will be made in the coming days. Participants will be able to stay up to date throughout the entire awards cycle by visiting meindustryawards.com. For more information, contact Solomon Daniels at (213) 291-7888 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Encouraging More Women to Get Involved in the Mobile Electronics Industry
North Andover, MA – July 26, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today a new partnership with Tech Up for Women to provide networking opportunities and engage more women in the mobile electronics industry. MEA will host an inaugural meeting of Women of Mobile Electronics during KnowledgeFest™, August 9-11 in Dallas, Texas. Dawn Pratt, founder of Tech Up For Women, will moderate a panel discussion during the meeting on Saturday, August 10. KnowledgeFest, the flagship event for MEA and the mobile electronics industry, brings together retailers and manufacturers for education, training, networking and the opportunity to see new products and technology.
“In our industry, women often work behind the scenes contributing to the success of their company,” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We wanted to provide an opportunity for them to network with other women that come to KnowledgeFest and to increase the visibility of women working in our industry. In a male dominated field, it’s easy for men to find others that share their interests. It’s a little harder for women to forge those connections in our industry. Our goal is that by providing a forum for women to gather at our event it will encourage other women to attend KnowledgeFest and get more involved with the association. And, long term, increase the opportunities for and the number of women working in our industry.”
“We are excited to offer our network the opportunity to attend MEA KnowledgeFest and the first MEA women’s event to discuss new trends, technologies and opportunities” said Dawn Pratt, founder of Tech Up For Women. Tech Up For Women is a resource platform and event for all women, in all industries, to advance through greater technology knowledge, www.techupforwomen.com.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
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August 9-11, 2019 - Dallas, TX
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February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
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March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
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May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL
About Tech Up For Women
Tech Up For Women is an event & engagement platform designed to enable in all job functions to “Tech Up” to advance their careers. Forbes named Tech Up one of the “Top Five Most Inspiring Conferences of 2018”. The 3rd Annual Tech Up For Women will take place on November 19, 2019 at the Javits Convention Center, NYC, www.techupforwomen.com. For more information reach out to us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us 203-255-2112.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – October 16, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is pleased to announce a new partnership with WINNING, Inc./Sandler Training to provide sales training and other services to MEA members. Through this partnership, Kevin Hallinan, principal, will offer customized sales training programs to retailers and manufacturers at a reduced cost for MEA members and partners.
“We’re excited to offer this new benefit to our members,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Sales training is an essential tool that increases our industry’s professionalism and a business’s profitability. It supports MEA’s goal to empower, educate and inform our members and achieves our mission to deliver exceptional customer experiences.”
Hallinan has over 30 years of sales, training, and management success. An engaging and dynamic trainer and mentor, and an award-winning sales producer, Kevin has provided training and coaching to hundreds of companies in numerous industries. His experiences range from small private companies, to family run businesses, to the corporate setting where he has successfully sold both products and services. He is a former business owner, industry leader and constant overachiever, having earned numerous sales awards including Producer of the Year and Top Account Executive, and holds two yet unbroken company records for Highest Weekly Sales and Highest Quarterly Sales.
For more infomation, go to www.Mobile-Electronics.com
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
8-7-2017 -- Chris Cook, president of the Mobile Electronics Association, was interviewed on the Sound Advice radio show on August 8, 2017. The show is broadcast on KVGI in the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas. The host of the show is John Schellsmidt, owner of Audio Depot in Dallas.
According to the show's Sound Cloud description, "Sound Advice with your host John Schellsmidt and owner of Audio Depot, brings you all things to know about car audio, music, and electronics. Tune in to listen to his special guests share their knowledge on audio and electronics."
The show is available for listening HERE.
North Andover, MA – March 31, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Association will hold a Retail Owner & Manager Roundtable on Thursday, April 2nd at 4:00pm Eastern Time.
Learn what the new legislation means for you as a Mobile Electronics Retailer. Special guest to be announced.
Join Chris Cook of MEA as we provide updates on the impact of COVID-19 on the Mobile Electronics industry.
This is meeting is designed for store owner and managers and we will discuss what the new legislation means for you and your business.
Guest panelist will take your questions and share their knowledge to help everyone through this challenge.
If you are a retail store owner or manager [Click Here] to register.
Mobile Electronics Association creates focused event for in-vehicle technologies
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – April 11, 2018 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced it is launching a new technology show and conference in conjunction with the popular CE Week show in New York City. The Connected Car Show will be co-located with CE Week New York and will take place June 20-21 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
The focus of the Connected Car Show will be to bring attention and awareness to changing vehicle technology trends on both the OEM and aftermarket sides of the vehicle, and showcase new technologies that can enhance the drive, whether they are factory- or aftermarket-installed. The exhibit floor will feature innovative companies whose connected-vehicle products currently drive the market.
In the accompanying seminars, a series of thought-provoking panels will explore the future of automotive technology and outline how autonomous technology will change the driving experience. In light of recent events, safety and the driver’s changing role will be key issues. In addition, topics will cover how drivers and passengers interact with the vehicle for comfort, entertainment and information.
The new show complements MEA’s existing KnowledgeFest tradeshow series, which informs, educates and supports the practices of retail establishments and technical professionals in the mobile electronics industry. KnowledgeFest is held in three cities—Long Beach, Calif., Dallas and Indianapolis, Ind.,—in February, March and August, respectively.
“The Connected Car Show gives us a forum in front of the automotive industry and covering media to create dialogue that impacts the future of the driving experience,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “The exhibiting companies, speakers and attendees all have a vested interest in building or delivering products and features that mesh with evolving trends. We look forward to their participation in this important event.”
For more information, please visit connectedcarshow.com.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.
About CT Lab Global Media:
CT Lab Global Media is the result of a new partnership between IFA, the world’s largest consumer electronics show, and NAPCO Media, a U.S. business-to-business media company, that offers consumer electronics and home appliances brands an unrivaled platform to connect with retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and buying groups. CT Lab Global Media hosts the industry’s most prestigious events, produces the market’s most creative digital experiences, and publishes the consumer technology industry’s premier magazines and newsletters.
MEA Announces New Member Benefit in partnership with MECP
North Andover, MA – October 6, 2021 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) has announced a new member benefit for their valued retailer and manufacturer member partners. In partnership with MECP, MEA will provide two free MECP course and exam coupon codes to its members to provide value and promote ongoing education and certification in the industry.
As an MEA member, a retailer or manufacturer can request their coupon codes directly with MECP by emailing them This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Upon verification of a current valid MEA Membership, MECP will provide two coupon codes: One for the MECP Product Technology Specialist and one for the MECP Apprentice Installation Technician. These coupons make the course and exam for each of these free.
“This is a terrific way to help provide additional value to our powerful MEA Member benefits package, and a clear indication that we want to promote our technicians and specialists in the industry stay on top of their game,” said MEA President Chris Cook. “We have always supported the program, and we have continuously supported education and training through our KnowledgeFest events, so this is a great fit.”
“Our completely revamped MECP certification program is much easier to access for users, and we can now execute new partnerships like this for the good of the industry,” said MECP President Kris Bulla. “MEA is an excellent partner through their support and promotion of the program, and this is a way we can give back a little bit to both the MEA organization and to the industry.”
To find out more about the courses and exams, please visit mecp.com. To request your coupon codes as a retailer or manufacturer MEA member, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To find out more about MEA membership and the other benefits it provides, visit mobile-electronics.com.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.
Media Contact:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
North Andover, MA – April 16, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Association to hold a webinar Thursday, April 16th at 4:00pm Eastern Time.
Don't wait for the Nation to reopen to figure out how to market your business. Create your "Digital Business Card" TODAY!!
Learn from a couple of social media masters how to create high impact videos designed to make a lasting impression on your customers.
Understand the best ways to communicate that you and your business are prepared to take the extra care and time to thoroughly clean the vehicle prior to pickup. Also making your customer comfortable with your procedures for drop-off, pick-up, payment and demonstration of their purchase.
Learn important marketing techniques to use while your business is closed or your customer traffic is reduced.
Learn how to stay connected to your customers and your community during this time of crisis.
This is meeting is designed for store owner and managers and we will discuss what all this means for you and your business.
Join Chris Cook of MEA and our special guest speakers as we provide the marketing tools you need to navigate through the COVID-19 crisis.
We will take your questions and share knowledge to help everyone through this challenge.
Register by [Clicking Here]
North Andover, MA – April 7, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Association to hold a webinar on the CARES Act 2020 and the Paycheck Protection Program - Learn How to Access Your Share of the $2.2 Trillion presented by Hilb Group of New England on Tuesday, April 7th at 3:00pm Eastern Time.
In this session, Hilb Group's benefits attorney, Suzanne D'Amato, Esq. will provide an overview of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stimulus Act of 2020 (CARES Act 2020) along with further details about the Paycheck Protection Program and how you can access some of the $340 Billion in forgivable loans that are available to help you defray payroll, benefits and operating expenses.
Register by [Clicking Here]
Biography:
Suzanne D’Amato
The Hilb Group of New England -- Warwick, RI
The Hilb Group of New England -- Warwick, RI
Suzanne D’Amato joined the company in 2015 as an in-house ERISA and Employee Benefits Attorney. Suzanne assists Hilb Group clients in navigating legal and compliance issues relating to their employee benefit plans, including Affordable Care Act compliance.
Prior to joining Hilb Group, Suzanne served as General Counsel to a technology company in the recruitment advertising space, where she oversaw the development and administration of an OFCCP compliance solution and advised company executives on day-to-day legal matters. Previously, Suzanne was an ERISA Associate in the Compensation and Benefits group of two New York City law firms, where her practice focused on employee benefits and qualified retirement plans, including the drafting, implementation, operation, and termination of plans; plan qualification; plan administration; and ERISA litigation involving the representation of multi-employer pension and welfare funds in benefit claim and collection actions.
Suzanne holds a B.S. in Health Systems Management from University of Connecticut and a J.D. from University of Connecticut School of Law. She is licensed to practice law in the State and Federal courts of Connecticut.
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