Mobile Electronics Alert - North Andover, MA – April 7, 2020: The Mobile Electronics Association is providing a list of online training opportunities at www.MEAhelp.com as a centralized resource for the Mobile Electronics Industry. Got to MEAhelp.com for more information.
This resource will be updated frequenlty with infomation about: Vital Resources for Retailers, COVID-19 Health Information, Federal & State Resources and Education & Training Events.
North Andover, MA – June 26, 2024 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is thrilled to announce the establishment of the Industry Hall of Fame, recognizing the outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals within the mobile electronics industry. The inaugural class of 2024 will be unveiled during the highly anticipated KnowledgeFest Dallas event.
The Industry Hall of Fame aims to honor industry veterans, innovators, and leaders who have made significant contributions to the advancement and growth of the mobile electronics sector. By recognizing their exceptional accomplishments, the Hall of Fame seeks to inspire future generations and celebrate the industry's rich history.
The official announcement of the inaugural class will take place shortly before the KnowledgeFest Dallas event, an annual gathering of industry professionals, manufacturers, retailers, and enthusiasts. This prestigious occasion will showcase the individuals who have left an indelible mark on the mobile electronics industry through their expertise, vision, and dedication.
"We are excited to introduce the Industry Hall of Fame as a platform to honor the remarkable individuals who have shaped and revolutionized the mobile electronics industry," said Chris Cook, President of the Mobile Electronics Association. "The inaugural class of 2024 will represent the pioneers and trailblazers who have set standards of excellence, and we look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements."
KnowledgeFest Dallas, renowned for its educational seminars, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities, provides the perfect setting to unveil the Industry Hall of Fame's inaugural class. Attendees can expect a memorable and inspiring ceremony that pays tribute to the honorees and their significant contributions.
The Industry Hall of Fame will continue to recognize and celebrate individuals each year, ensuring that the mobile electronics industry's legacy is preserved and shared with future generations. MEA extends an invitation to all industry professionals, enthusiasts, and media to attend the KnowledgeFest Dallas.
For more information about the Industry Hall of Fame and KnowledgeFest Dallas, please visit meindustryawards.com/hall-of-fame
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
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:
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978-645-6434
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The best of the best of the Mobile Electronics Industry were honored for their accomplishments
Las Vegas, Nevada – February 20, 2022 – The Mobile Electronics® Association (MEA) announced the winners of the 2022 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The awards were presented Sunday evening at the conclusion of a successful KnowledgeFest Las Vegas event. The awards recognize and honor professionals in the mobile electronics industry that exhibit outstanding service, business ethics, professionalism, and expertise in their field.
Chris Cook, President of MEA, hosted the event which was attended in person and viewed online by thousands of industry professionals, including family and friends, from the United States and around the globe. Top honors for Installer of the Year went to Marty Adamschek of Andres Electronics – Courtenay, BC. Retailer of the Year was awarded to Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN. Sales Pro of the Year went to Robert Kowatch – Perfectionist Auto Sound & Security – Anchorage, AK. and Trusted Tech of the Year went to Adam Devine - Devine Concepts - Naples, FL. Vendor of the Year went to HKI USA and Distributor of the Year went to DOW Electronics.
“Congratulations to all the nominees, finalist, award winners”, stated Chris Cook, MEA President. “Their accomplishments set a high standard for the Mobile Electronics Industry.” Going forward, MEA will continue to hold the Industry Awards at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas.
Installer of the Year
Marty Adamschek – Andres Electronics – Courtenay, BC
Retailer of the Year
Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Sales Pro Award Winner
Robert Kowatch – Perfectionist Auto Sound & Security – Anchorage, AK
Trusted Tech Award Winner
Adam Devine – Devine Concepts - Naples, FL
Rookie of the Year
Jacob Mallette – Car-Tunes, Inc. – Greensville, MS
Most Improved Store or Chain
Sudbury Car Audio – Sudbury, ON
Best Online Presence
NVS Audio – Roselle, NJ
Best Customer Retention Program
SoundsGood – Coquitlam, BC
Best Customer Experience
SoundsGood – Coquitlam, BC
Best Store Culture
Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Customer Choice Award
Sound Evolution – Houston, TX
Expeditor of the Year
Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Distributor of the Year
DOW Technologies
Rep Firm of the Year
12-Volt Specialists
Rep of the Year
Johnathan Mercado – GoFast Solutions
Vendor Support Tech of the Year
Jason Ewing – Firstech
Vendor of the Year
HKI USA
Top Vendor: Autosound & Processing
Sony
Top Vendor: Security, Safety and Driver Assistance
Firstech
Top Vendor: Accessories and Materials
Metra Electronics
Top Vendor: Infotainment & Multimedia
Sony
Top Vendor: Powersports & Marine
JL Audio
Top Vendor: OEM Integration
AAMP - PAC
Top Vendor: Lighting
Metra – Heise Lighting
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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Media Contact:
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(978) 645-6434
The best of the best of the Mobile Electronics Industry were honored for their accomplishments
Las Vegas, Nevada – February 10, 2023 – The Mobile Electronics® Association (MEA) announced the winners of the 2023 Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. The awards were presented Sunday evening, February 5 at the conclusion of a successful KnowledgeFest Las Vegas event. The awards recognize and honor professionals in the mobile electronics industry that exhibit outstanding service, business ethics, professionalism, and expertise in their field.
Chris Cook, President of MEA, hosted the event which was attended in person and viewed online by thousands of industry professionals, including family and friends, from the United States and around the globe. Top honors for Installer of the Year went to Brian Mitchell – Liquid Trends Modesto – Modesto, CA. Retailer of the Year – Single-store was awarded to Sound Evolution – Houston, TX and multi-store to Freeman’s Car Stereo – Cornelius, NC. Dan Bowman – Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN and Trusted Tech of the Year went to Dean Beyett – Five Star Car Stereo – Clearwater, FL. Vendor of the Year went to Alps Alpine and Distributor of the Year went to DOW Electronics.
For 2023 the Mobile Electronics Association recognized three individuals for their Career Achievements. These were Jason Ewing of Firstech, LLC, Cabe Sipes of Custom Audio Reimagined – Lafayette, IN, and Michael “Mad Mike” Martin of Galpin Auto Sports – Van Nuys, CA. The three were best known for their time on the TV Show “Pimp my Ride”. They were awarded the “Career Achievement Award for their long-time and continued contribution to the Mobile Electronics Industry. The three also presented at the event revealing some of the behind-the-scenes antics of Pimp my Ride providing attendees with details of the many now famous vehicle-builds from the show.
“Congratulations to all the nominees, finalist, award winners”, stated Chris Cook, MEA President. “Their accomplishments set a high standard for the Mobile Electronics Industry.” MEA will continue to hold the Industry Awards at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas with next year’s event at the Paris Hotel February 4, 2024.
Installer of the Year
Brian Mitchell – Liquid Trends Modesto – Modesto, CA
Retailer of the Year – Single-store
Sound Evolution – Houston, TX
Retailer of the Year – Multi-Store
Freeman’s Car Stereo – Cornelius, NC
Sales Pro Award Winner
Dan Bowman – Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Trusted Tech Award Winner
Dean Beyett – Five Star Car Stereo - Clearwater, FL
Rookie of the Year
Jeremy ‘Taco’ Patterson – Speakerbox – Huntsville, AL
Most Improved Store or Chain
Sound Evolution – Houston, TX
Best Online Presence
Freeman’s Car Stereo – Cornelius, NC
Best Customer Retention Program
Freeman’s Car Stereo – Cornelius, NC
Best Customer Experience
Freeman’s Car Stereo – Cornelius, NC
Best Store Culture
Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Customer Choice Award - Technician
Terry Dawson – Cartronics – Madison, TN
Customer Choice Award - Sales
Jason Stearns – Andres Car Audio – Tulsa, OK
Customer Choice Award - Retailer
Next Level Inc – Orlando, FL
Expeditor of the Year
Titan Motoring – Nashville, TN
Distributor of the Year
DOW Technologies
Rep Firm of the Year
12-Volt Specialists
Rep of the Year
Johnathan Mercado – GoFast Solutions
Vendor Support of the Year
Jeff Smith – AAMP Global - Clearwater, FL
Vendor of the Year
Alps Alpine
Top Vendor: Autosound & Processing
SONY
Top Vendor: Accessories and Materials
Metra Electronics
Top Vendor: Infotainment & Multimedia
SONY
Top Vendor: Security, Safety and Driver Assistance
Firstech - Compustar
Top Vendor: Marine
Rockford Fosgate
Top Vendor: Motorcycle & Powersports
Kicker
Top Vendor: OEM Integration
AAMP Global - PAC
Top Vendor: Lighting
Metra – Heise Lighting
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, 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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Media Contact:
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(978) 645-6434
Mobile Electronics Association Reports KnowledgeFest® Long Beach a Success
Year-Over-Year Growth Continues
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 2, 2018 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) reported the launch of its weekend KnowledgeFest® event in Long Beach, California was a success. Long Beach is now the third event in its KnowledgeFest series. The other two 2018 events are in Indianapolis (March 16-18) and Dallas (August 17-19).
This first-time event held in the Long Beach Convention Center attracted more than 1,100 attendees, including more than 760 dealers from California, the surrounding states, and Canada, as well as attendees from five other countries. Forty-five exhibitors covered more than 45,000 square feet of sold-out exhibit space.
KnowledgeFest Long Beach featured more than 30 hours of educational programming for retailers covering installation, management and sales topics. Manufacturer trainings totaled 60 hours. Programming was packed and, for several sessions, standing room only.
“MEA was pleased and excited to bring KnowledgeFest to dealers not only in Southern California, but the entire west coast,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “In making this decision to bring our unique KnowledgeFest programming to the region, we got buy-in from the major manufacturers headquartered in SoCal and we carefully evaluated locations and venues. We are grateful to all the manufacturers in the specialist channel who supported the event by exhibiting and to the dealers who turned out to experience our unique offering. We’ll be back in the Long Beach Convention Center’s Hall C next year on February 22-24.”
KnowledgeFest is three regional events covering the eastern, 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 go to www.knowledgefest.org.
2018/19 KnowledgeFest Dates:
- Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 16-18, 2018
- Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 17-19, 2018
- Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 22-24, 2019
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.
North Andover, MA – March 26, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Association will hold a Retail Owner & Manager Roundtable on Thursday, March 26th at 4:00pm Eastern Time.
The moderator (Chris Cook of MEA) will provide updates on the impact of COVID-19 on the Mobile Electronics industry.
Some of the top KnowledgeFest instuctors will take your questions and share their knowledge to help everyone through this challenge.
Panelists for the webinar are Tomas Keenan -Top Class Installations, Jason Kranitz - Kingpin University, Bryan Schmitt - Mobile Solutions, Andy Wehmeyer - Audiofrog U
This is meeting is designed for store owner and managers and will discuss issues and opportunities regarding business operations.
This is meeting is designed for store owner and managers and will discuss issues and opportunities regarding business operations.
If you are a retail store owner or manager [Click Here] to register.
North Andover, MA – March 13, 2024 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is thrilled to announce an innovative addition to this year's KnowledgeFest in Nashville — the highly anticipated Truck Expo. This dynamic event will spotlight a variety of truck and off-road categories, featuring top-notch products such as truck bed covers, step and nerf bars, weather protection, and much more.
RealTruck, the premier global manufacturer and digital destination of accessories for trucks, Jeep, and Bronco, will be a highlight at the Truck Expo, showcasing leading brands including AMP, Go Rhino, Retrax, AVS, Husky, and more. In addition to RealTruck, numerous other truck accessory exhibitors will be on display, providing attendees with an extensive range of products and innovations, and Meyer Distributing will be hosting several truck accessories partners to exhibit and demonstrate their products.
The Truck Expo will offer a main stage on the exhibit floor, hosting key industry speakers, product demonstrations, and hands-on demos. Chris Cook, President of MEA, emphasized the significance of the truck accessories category, stating, "The truck accessories category is a great way for our member companies to enhance their business. We welcome dealers/jobbers to explore traditional mobile electronics products as well."
KnowledgeFest, already renowned for its comprehensive educational workshops, will feature over 150 hours of sessions covering key topics for owners and managers, sales and marketing, as well as technicians and fabricators. The Truck Expo aligns with MEA's commitment to provide diverse opportunities for growth within the industry. Attendees can look forward to engaging seminars, insightful workshops, interactive demonstrations, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Truck accessories retailers, even those not currently MEA members, will receive special invite codes from exhibiting manufacturers and distributors, enabling them to register for free and explore the exciting offerings at KnowledgeFest. MEA anticipates about 250 additional attendees.
As an added incentive, retailers registering and attending KnowledgeFest will have the chance to win a Ford F-150, loaded with products from participating exhibitors.
MEA invites mobile electronics retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and industry enthusiasts to mark their calendars for all the KnowledgeFest 2024/25 events and be part of this exceptional opportunity to revolutionize the mobile electronics landscape.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- April 19-21, 2024 – Nashville, TN
- June 7-9, 2024 – Atlantic City, NJ
- August 23-25, 2024 – Dallas, TX
- January 31 to February 2, 2025 – Las Vegas, NV
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:
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978-645-6434
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5-3-2017 -- The Mobile Electronics Industry Awards 2017 are officially underway with nominations now open. The awards celebrate companies and individuals that best exemplify the highest standards of quality and service excellence. Winners represent the industry at-large to consumers and act as ideal examples to better their peers within the industry.
To begin the nomination process, click the following link and follow the steps: CLICK HERE.
This awards process begins with the selection of nominees through industry voting. The two main categories of retailers and installers are narrowed down to the "Top 50," then through peer and consumer voting, the list is narrowed to the “Top 12” retailers and installers, and these finalists submit materials to be judged by Mobile Electronics magazine’s editors and select industry judges. The winners are chosen and announced at a special awards ceremony during the Mobile Electronics Group KnowledgeFest event in August.
In addition to those categories, other industry professionals are recognized for their outstanding service. Those categories include Most Improved Retail Chain, Best Customer Retention Program, Expeditor of the Year and new to this year's awards, Salesperson of the Year.
"It’s been a while coming, but as of this year, the Industry Awards will recognize the in-store individuals who are most responsible for bringing in the revenue and filling up the bay," according to a statement on the official website, meindustryawards.com. "Sales professionals can submit their nomination videos and let indusrty peers and their customers vote for them."
Additional awards are given for vendors and sales representatives. Vendors and representatives nominate themselves to be included in the industry voting and submit videos and other materials to encourage industry professionals to vote for them. Then the three top vote-getters in each category are considered finalists, with the winner announced at KnowledgeFest.
To learn more about the Industry Awards, visit meindustryawards.com.
North Andover, MA – July 21, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Industry Awards for 2020 are officially underway with nominations closing today, Wednesday, July 22, 2020. The awards celebrate companies and individuals that best exemplify the highest standards of quality and service excellence. Winners represent the industry at-large to consumers and act as ideal examples to better their peers within the industry.
To sumbit your nomination, click the following link and follow the steps: CLICK HERE.
This awards process begins with the selection of nominees through industry voting. The three main categories of retailers, sales professionals and installers are narrowed down to the "Top 50 (Top 20 for Sales Pros)," then through peer and consumer voting, the list is narrowed to the “Top 12” retailers, sales professionals and installers, and these finalists submit materials to be judged by a select and trusted panel of industry judges. The winners are chosen and announced at a special awards ceremony during the Mobile Electronics Association's KnowledgeFest event in September.
In addition to those categories, other industry professionals are recognized for their outstanding service. Those categories can be reviewed at https://meindustryawards.com/.
"It’s been a while coming, but as of this year, the Industry Awards will recognize the in-store individuals who are most responsible for bringing in the revenue and filling up the bay," according to a statement on the official website, meindustryawards.com. "Sales professionals can submit their nomination videos and let indusrty peers and their customers vote for them."
Additional awards are given for vendors and sales representatives. Vendors and representatives nominate themselves to be included in the industry voting and submit videos and other materials to encourage industry professionals to vote for them. Then the three top vote-getters in each category are considered finalists, with the winner announced at KnowledgeFest.
To learn more about the Industry Awards, visit https://meindustryawards.com/.
North Andover, Mass. – July 22, 2024 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) proudly introduces the inaugural class of the Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame, honoring individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped the industry. Selected by a distinguished nomination committee, including executive leadership from the Mobile Electronics Association, this first class is dedicated in memoriam of the manufacturing sector.
The Class of 2024 inductees are:
- Jim Fosgate (Rockford Fosgate)
- Larry Frederick (Cicada Audio)
- Reese Haggott (Alpine)
- Loyd Ivey (Mitek)
- Rob Limbaugh (Kicker)
- Tom Malone (Voxx)
- Kevan Morris (Pioneer)
- Clyde Podraza (Dual)
- Michael Somma (Metra)
"These visionary leaders have left an indelible mark on the mobile electronics industry," said Chris Cook, President of the Mobile Electronics Association. "Their innovations, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication have shaped the landscape of our industry and continue to inspire future generations."
The Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame will now follow a process where future inductees will be selected through a membership voting system following nominations. Nominees must be retired individuals who have significantly impacted or left a positive influence on the mobile electronics industry.
Family and friends of the esteemed inductees will accept the Hall of Fame awards on their behalf at a special ceremony on Saturday, September 21, 2024 during KnowledgeFest at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. MEA Chairman Tony Frangiosa emphasized, "MEA members attending KnowledgeFest are invited to join us and witness the accomplishments of these industry icons who paved the way."
For more information about the Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame and to learn more about the inductees, please visit meindustryawards.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, 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.
Press Contact: Chris Cook
Mobile Electronics Association
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Mobile Electronics Association
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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‘Mobile Electronics Association’ to provide strong branding, kick off membership campaign
NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – July 6, 2016 – Mobile Electronics® has approved a new name to represent the membership component of its industry offerings. Mobile Electronics Association™ (MEA) and its new logo will stand alongside KnowledgeFest®, the educational element, and the trade publication Mobile Electronics® magazine. In addition, a new website, join-mea.com, will provide retailers and vendors with information on the benefits of membership.
The Mobile Electronics Association is a vertically-integrated association with over 1,100 dealers, installers and manufacturers as its members. MEA provides a forum and voice for the mobile specialist channel and manages shared business resources and solutions for its retail members. In addition, through integration with Mobile Electronics magazine and KnowledgeFest, MEA promotes education and peer networking to advance the professionalism and profitability of the industry.
“In 2014 we officially retired the MERA (Mobile Electronics Retailers Association) brand and consolidated our three entities under the Mobile Electronics corporate brand,” said Chris Cook, president. “And while Mobile Electronics magazine and KnowledgeFest retained strong recognition, the identity of the membership was lost in the shuffle. MEA is a strong identity that also represents a broadened approach to membership.”
MEA will work to include all parts of the mobile electronics industry, welcoming vendors, retailers and service providers as members, while leaving the door open for other service and technology providers that significantly impact the market. The goal of the association is to increase participation and provide a better platform for networking and sharing of information through a diverse membership environment.
The new logo will be presented at the upcoming KnowledgeFest trade show and conference, August 20-22, in Dallas. The association will also launch a new campaign aimed at increasing membership and communicating the benefits of MEA to the mobile electronics industry. For more information, please visit www.join-mea.com.
Industry trends and strategies for growth considered.
North Andover, MA – May 23, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) hosted a leadership conference last week in Orlando to discuss its newest KnowledgeFest event planned for May 15-17, 2020 at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center. Companies represented included MEA Partners: Alpine, Cerwin Vega, DS18, InstallerNet, JL Audio, JVC, Kenwood, Focal, Rostra, Sony, VAIS Technology, VOXX, all of which will be exhibiting at the Orlando event. Seventy-five percent of the exhibit space is pre-sold. Leadership discussed growth trends and opportunities for KnowledgeFest, met with Visit Orlando and received tours of the host hotel, the Rosen Centre, and the convention center exhibit hall.
The group acknowledged that KnowledgeFest plays an important role in educating retailers and provides value for all their employees through its workshops and manufacturer-sponsored training. Now with the new KnowledgeFest Orlando event drawing attendance from the east coast, exhibiting manufacturers can support training for retailers nationwide.
KnowledgeFest is the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. The addition of a fourth event in Orlando brings KnowledgeFest to a coast-to-coast nationwide audience. Combining an exhibit floor with dealer education and manufacturer training, KnowledgeFest delivers a tremendous value for the entire industry.
Other topics that were discussed at the conference included strategies to grow MEA’s retailer membership, mobile industry trends and challenges facing today’s mobile electronics specialists. "We had many of the top leaders from our industry in the room,” said MEA President, Chris Cook. “We appreciate the many actionable ideas they contributed to help us grow membership and improve the quality of service delivered to consumers.”
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
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.
Strategy & Tactics: Business Planning Basics
Facing pitfalls? Here are 5 ways retailers can learn to be more prepared for unexpected twists and turns in both life and business.
Words by Rosa Sophia
When preparing for the future, retailers agree it’s best to have a plan—and a backup plan in case the first option doesn’t work out. James P. Smith of A.C.T. Audio in Vernon, Conn. said it’s best not to look at pitfalls in life as failures. “Look at it as a lesson,” he said, noting that it’s important to sit down and extract knowledge from the experience. “Then it becomes more of a success because you know what not to do in the future. You can analyze your mistakes and see how you need to change your mindset or your behavior—whatever the situation is—to keep moving forward.” Smith said when he makes a mistake, he uses it as an opportunity to learn, to keep something similar from happening in the future.
The debut KnowledgeFest Orlando took place June 25-27, and on Sunday, Smith taught his first class, called “Getting Out of Your Own Way: From Technician to CEO.” In it, he covered understanding core values, creating standard operating procedures and how best to delegate tasks. Smith detailed how he went from partnering in a business in 2011 to purchasing A.C.T. Audio in 2019, and what he learned along the way. He asked attendees to consider whether... read the rest by [Clicking Here]
Read the latest issue of Mobile Electronics magazine [Click Here]
Auburn Hills, Mich. (Feb. 8, 2023) – Mobile Electronics recognized Alps Alpine North America, Inc. as the 2023 Vendor of the Year during the Annual Industry Awards ceremony at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday, February 5th. This is the first time Alps Alpine has received the award.
“We are honored to accept the 2023 Vendor of the Year Award and appreciate the opportunity to be recognized by our fellow industry members,” said Mike Anderson, Executive Director at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “We strive to provide the highest level of products and service to our retailers and will continue to support the industry with the same level of dedication in the years to come.”
The Mobile Electronics Industry Awards recognize the top retailers, installers, and sales professionals, as well as the top suppliers, rep and rep firms, distributors, expeditors, and vendors, that best exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, business ethics, service, and expertise in the mobile electronics industry.
Alps Alpine Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer of electronic components and automotive infotainment systems, has brought the world numerous “First 1” and “Number 1” products since its founding in 1948. The Alps Alpine Group currently operates 110 bases in 26 countries and regions, supplying roughly 40,000 different products and solutions to around 2,000 companies worldwide. Those offerings include devices such as switches, sensors, data communication modules, touch input panels, actuators and power inductors; electronic shifters, remote keyless entry systems and other automotive units; consumer electronics like car navigation and audio-visual systems; and systems and services such as digital keys based on smartphone app and blockchain technology, and remote monitoring.
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.
CONTACTS:
Alps Alpine North America Media Contact
Allison Saunders
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(586) 719-8966
Finalists to submit materials for judging to determine final winners
North Andover, Mass., – December 28, 2021 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the finalists for the 2022 Industry Awards earlier today, live on its Facebook page. MEA President, Chris Cook held the Finalists Presentation, in which The Top 12 Retailers, Top 12 Installers, Top 5 Technicians and new Top 5 Sales Professionals and other awards were announced. Also noted were the "Top 3" and "Top 5" awards for finalists in the vendor, vendor tech support, expeditor, sales rep, rep firm and distributor categories, as well as the top 5 Technicians denoting the finalists for the coveted Trusted Tech award. Each "Top" award recipient will receive a signed wall certificate.
While the final stage of the Industry Awards will be held in Las Vegas during KnowledgeFest, Cook noted that the announcement produced its own set of winners.
"It's important to recognize that making it to the Top 12, Top 5 and Top 3 categories signals a major achievement in this industry," he explained. "It means that these individuals, stores, brands and companies are part of a unique group that represents the best of our industry. We're overdue in recognizing the significance of their efforts, and I am proud to create a special event for that purpose.
Some of the award categories are decided solely on industry votes. For these, the top vote-getter will be announced at KnowledgeFest as the ultimate winner of the category. For the Top 12 retailers, Top 12 Installers, Top 5 Technicians, Top 5 Rookies, and Top 5 Sales Professionals, each recipient will need to submit additional materials for judging to determine the winner in each category.
The finalists lists can be viewed at meindustryawards.com by clicking on the Winners tab and selecting '2022' winners. To view the 2022 Industry Awards Finalists Presentation, visit the Mobile Electronics magazine page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MobileElectronics. The final awards will be announced at the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards celebration during the KnowledgeFest trade show and conference in Las Vegas, February 20, 2022. For more information, visit www.meindustryawards.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.
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(978) 645-6434
Finalists to submit materials for judging to determine final winners
North Andover, Mass., – November 18, 2022 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced the finalists for the 2023 Industry Awards earlier today, live on its Facebook page. MEA President, Chris Cook held the Finalists Presentation, in which The Top 12 Retailers, Top 12 Installers, Top 5 Technicians, and Top 5 Sales Pros and other awards were announced. Also noted were the “Top 3” and “Top 5” awards for finalists in the vendor, vendor tech support, expeditor, sales rep, rep firm and distributor categories, as well as the top 5 Technicians denoting the finalists for the coveted Trusted Tech award. Each “Top” award recipient will receive a signed wall certificate.
While the final stage of the Industry Awards will be held in Las Vegas during KnowledgeFest, Cook noted that the announcement produced its own set of winners.
“It’s important to recognize that making it to the Top 12, Top 5 and Top 3 categories signals a major achievement in this industry,” he explained. “It means that these individuals, stores, brands and companies are part of a unique group that represents the best of our industry. We’re overdue in recognizing the significance of their efforts, and I am proud to create a special event for that purpose.
Some of the award categories are decided solely on industry votes. For these, the top vote-getter will be announced at KnowledgeFest as the ultimate winner of the category. For the Top 12 retailers, Top 12 Installers, Top 5 Technicians, Top 5 Rookies, and Top 5 Sales Professionals, each recipient will need to submit additional materials for judging to determine the winner in each category.
The finalists lists can be viewed at meindustryawards.com by clicking on the Winners tab and selecting ‘2023’ winners. To view the 2023 Industry Awards Finalists Presentation, visit the Mobile Electronics magazine page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MobileElectronics. The final awards will be announced at the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards celebration during the KnowledgeFest trade show and conference at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas, February 5, 2022.
Complete information on the Industry Awards, including rules, award descriptions, past winners, eligibility requirements, instructions and submissions can be found at www.MEIndustryAwards.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:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(978) 645-6434
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8-12-2017 -- The second day of KnowledgeFest 2017 marked its first full day of workshops and manufacturer trainings, which was capped by a keynote presentation by world-renowned speaker and podcast host, Brett Gajda. The keynote, titled "Accelerate Your Success," discussed how business owners can better identify and attain success in their business and personal lives: through strong, conscious leadership.
"If leadership is how you do your day-to-day, you need to show up as much as possible," Gajda said. "I started to think about how the man I want to be would eat a hamburger. It sounds silly but it worked. As I sat alone I thought about how I might eat that burger in front of a date I really liked. Leadership is about being conscious and present. Be the person you want to be. Slow down and enjoy the flavor."
The presentation included personal anecdotes along with inspirational quotes and concepts by well-known authors. One such concept was from the book, "The Compound Effect," by Darren Hardy, which discusses how the little things we do can make a huge impact over time. "The book explains that 3rd gear isn't sexy. 1st gear, when we take off, that's sexy. 5th gear, when we're at top speed, that's sexy. 3rd gear is stocking shelves and checking inventory. That's when we check out mentally. Most people aren't willing to go through 3rd gear," Gajda added.
Highlights of the day's seminars included seminar like High Res - The Next Big Thing, with instructors Bryan Schmitt and Matt Schaeffer. It discussed how high resolution audio products are changing the game for customers and allowing retailers the opportunity to reinvigorate a category recently seen to be on the decline.
MEA President Chris Cook hosted his first classes in many years, including the course, "Profitable Merchandising: Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) Optimization." In the course, he conveyed best practices from many years in 12-volt as a former employee of companies like Circuit City, where it was important to justify both cutting costs and keeping costs, like paying for employee lunches during the busiest work days.
The show floor also opened for the first time during the event, revealing both a host of new product offerings and new faces. Companies making their KnowledgeFest debut included off-road speaker and amplifier manufacturer Probox, Brazillian company SounDigital and startup dashcam maker, Waylens.
KnowledgeFest continues through Monday, finishing with the 2017 Industry Awards on Monday at 6:30pm. Find out more about events and seminars at kfest.me.
4-9-2017 -- Thanks to the growing popularity of the event, and great weather, the turnouts for the seminars on the opening day of KnowledgeFest were high, with many rooms filled nearly to capacity. Retailers, installers and sales staff were in high spirits, eager to make the most of this year's spring training experience.
This was showcased particularly well in Eric Carter's "Word of 'Mouse': Dealing with Social Media & Online Reviews" course when, due to a computer delay, he took questions from the audience, creating an instant rapport with the audience where the air of positivity and excitement was palpable. The course tackled the best ways to enhance and maintain your store's social media presence with humorous anecdotes and situational-based how-to's like how to handle a bad review when it was accidentally clicked by a happy customer.
Marcel Newell took retailers in a more serious direction by emphasizing how critical it is to budget every facet of your business to prevent unforeseen losses. The course, called "Budgeting Without Balding," took attendees through the specifics of creating and maintaining a budget, using it to measure their business performance and as a planning tool. One stand-out moment of the presentation was when Newell explained the importance of retailers taking time on their own away from the shop to study the financials and find new ways to maximize efficiency. "Budget vs. Actual is your score card as an entrepreneur. Get better over months at what you buy and what you sell. Understand the gap," Newell explained. "You guys are way smarter than anyone in finance. If you do this, you will improve your business. Plain and simple."
The manufacturer trainings featured memorable offerings as well, with JL Audio offering a tuning session with laptops available for each attendee to use. DD Audio went over a series of enclosure builds it conducted over a 30-day period to help educate its dealers on how best to build enclosures for its various subwoofers. Sony explained the ins and outs of its XAV-AX100 smartphone receiver, a popular head unit for the brand.
Seminars and events will continue through Tuesday, April 11, and include a town hall presentation, networking night and the Mobile Electronics show, which offers retailers the chance to mingle with vendors and peers about new products and trends in the industry. If the first day is any indication, it's likely this show will be a huge success both for individual retailer's and manufacturers as well.
Find out more about the show, including a complete schedule of seminars and events, at kfest.me.
Mobile Electronics Alert - North Andover, MA – March 30, 2020:
The below link is for applying through the Small Business Association (SBA) for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Relief. This is a short form (5 screens) that can be completed online in a few minutes. MEA recommends that all members that have been negatively impacted by the coronavirus apply for this relief.
You will need the following information:
1. Business Tax ID or Social Security number
2. Total Sales for the period from 2/1/2019 through 1/31/2020
3. Total COGS (Cost of Goods Sold - which is only what you pay for products for resale) for the same period (2/1/19-1/31/20)**
4. Total Operating Expenses (Total of everything else you paid not including the COGS) for same period (2/1/19-1/31/20)**
5. The date the business was established (usually date of incorporated) and current ownership is the same if it has not changed
6. Select “Automotive Repair” activity and “Automotive – Parts. Accessories” for detailed
7. Number of employees you had employed as of 1/31/2020
8. You will need the full name, address, DOB and social security number of each owner of the business and the % of ownership they have
9. Bank name, account number and routing number
**As long as you use a good faith effort in compiling the information, the government is most likely to forgive some errors.
To Start Your Application Click the Button [CLICK HERE]
When completed you will be assigned an application number and receive an email for additional information needed once your application is processed. Currently there is not a way to edit the information once submitted.
Visit MEAHelp.com for more tips on what other information you may need.
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