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Establishes KnowledgeFest™ as The Premier Event for the Mobile Electronics Industry

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – August 24, 2018 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced final figures for its recently completed KnowledgeFest® in Dallas. Following a successful first-time event in Long Beach, California and a record-setting fourth-year event in Indianapolis, Indiana year-over-year growth for all KnowledgeFest events in 2018 continues. Dallas was another record-setting event for MEA with year-over-year growth in attendees and exhibitors:

  • More than 1,729 attendees, including 1,217 retailer and distributor attendees: 1,115 retailers and 103 distributors;
  • 60 Exhibitors occupying 90,000 square feet of exhibit space;
  • 48 Hours of educational workshops; and
  • 78 Hours of manufacturer training

For 2018, to accommodate the event’s growth, the show floor moved to a bigger Hall C in the Dallas Convention Center, where it again will be held in 2019. Growth came from new product categories such as driver assistance and safety products—both categories offering installing dealers new revenue opportunities. New tech companies are finding the KnowledgeFest show floor and available training time an affordable way to bring their products to market with the mobile specialist.

“Over the last several years we’ve watched KnowledgeFest evolve to the point where, this year in Dallas, we’ve seen the mobile electronics industry make KnowledgeFest their own,” stated Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Looking at our show floor, I was struck by the number of pure 12-volt companies exhibiting—more than the North Hall. Attendees, eager to learn, packed our education and training sessions. Dallas establishes KnowledgeFest as the premier event for our industry. I believe we’ve created the optimum venue and experience to achieve our exhibitors’ and attendees’ goals.”

KnowledgeFest is three regional trade-only 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 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..

2019 KnowledgeFest Dates:

  • Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 23-25, 2019
  • Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 15-17, 2019
  • Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 9-11, 2019

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 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.

KnowledgeFest Indy Brings the Experience East

Another Record-Setting Event

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 29, 2018 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced attendance for its March 16-18 KnowledgeFest® event in Indianapolis, Indiana. Following a successful first-time event in Long Beach, California earlier in March, KnowledgeFest Indy, now in its fourth year, was another record-setting event with year-over-year growth for all KnowledgeFest events continuing in 2018.

Held in the Indiana Convention Center, KnowledgeFest Indy 2018 attracted more than 950 attendees, including more than 630 dealers, a thirty percent increase over 2017. KnowledgeFest Indy is the only industry event dedicated to the mobile electronics specialist, the installing dealer. And, KnowledgeFest is the only mobile electronics tradeshow east of the Mississippi; attracting dealers from more than ten surrounding states, as well as the east coast, “near east” cities like Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Buffalo and Rochester, and Canadian cities like Toronto and Ottawa.

Forty-five exhibitors packed a sold-out trade show floor. KnowledgeFest is unique in that it combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. Indy featured sixty hours of manufacturer training and thirty hours of educational sessions focused on management, sales and installation. Billed as “Spring Training”, KnowledgeFest Indy is scheduled to allow dealers to get training on new products just coming to market and to kick-off the spring season.

“Indianapolis has become a great venue for us, our attendees and exhibitors. We continue to attract manufacturers from the specialty sector of our industry who don’t exhibit at other trade shows and who want to get their products and new technologies in front of our audience of mobile specialists, the installing dealers,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “The opportunity for manufacturers to train dealers adds value to manufacturers and the dealers overall KnowledgeFest experience. Having Davis Distribution’s presence in Indy has helped drive attendance from nearby markets, and I thank them. As a Massachusetts-based business, we continue to focus on driving attendance from the northeast, New York City and Philadelphia. These dealers aren’t going to Vegas, so we need to communicate that KnowledgeFest Indy is accessible to them, inexpensive to attend, and a high-value experience.”  

KnowledgeFest is three regional events covering the eastern (Indianapolis), central (Dallas) and western (Long Beach) US and Canada. The next 2018 KnowledgeFest takes place in Dallas from August 17-19. For more information go to www.knowledgefest.org.

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 – August 3, 2020 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today the launch of KnowledgeFest Live. This in-person and digital event is designed to welcome back the mobile electronics industry in preparation for commerce in a post-pandemic era.
KnowledgeFest Live will be held in Dallas on December 4-6 and will include exhibitors and attendees from all previously scheduled KnowledgeFest events earlier in the year.
 
Although KnowledgeFest Live is more than four months away, appropriate actions have been taken to ensure a safe environment for attendees throughout all KnowledgeFest venues including the exhibit floor, education sessions and the host hotel (more timely information will be made available at
 
KnowledgeFest registered attendees include owners, managers, salespersons, and installers of specialty retailers (70% of attendees come from within a 300-mile radius). New this year, buyers from big-box retailers that usually attend larger trade shows will be in attendance through special invitation.
For retailers not able to attend the event in person, they will still be able to register for KnowledgeFest Live through a digital platform for education workshops, manufacture trainings, and can take a virtual tour of the exhibit floor. KnowledgeFest Live will be recognizing the Mobile Electronics Industry Award winners in a special in-person and on-line celebration event.  
 
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
 
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
 

KnowledgeFest Set to Achieve

Theme for 2018-2019 trade shows and conferences announced

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS., June 11, 2018 — The Mobile Electronics Association™ (MEA) announced “Achieve” as the theme for its 2018-2019 KnowledgeFest™, a series of three trade shows and conferences. KnowledgeFest is the premier education and networking event for the mobile electronics industry. Each year a theme is selected to represent the events and to support both the attendee and exhibitor in their quest for learning. "Achieve" will be depicted on all show signs and artwork; signifying a call for industry professionals—whether installers, sales, or owners—to take their expertise, drive and professionalism to a higher level.

“After carefully evaluating the changing trends that directly affect the mobile electronics community, we chose ‘Achieve,’” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “That one word defines it: ‘To successfully bring about or reach a desired objective, level, or result by effort, skill and courage.’ What must you learn to be proficient in your profession? If you are ready to achieve success and want to make sure you have done everything in your power to ensure it, take the next step and register for an upcoming KnowledgeFest.”

The first KnowledgeFest of the of the 2018-2019 series takes place August 17-19 in Dallas at the Dallas Convention Center and Omni Dallas Hotel. 2019 events include Long Beach February 22-24 and Indianapolis March 16-18.

This year’s KnowledgeFest Dallas is growing with more manufacturer trainings and more exhibitors, including new exhibitors from growth categories such as power sports, connected car, and driver assistance and safety. The expanded show floor gives attendees the opportunity to see and hear new product and consider new business opportunities.

Registration for KnowledgeFest Dallas 2018 is open to all mobile electronics retail industry professionals and technicians. Attendees will be able to select and reserve space in education and training courses in the coming days. For more information and to register online, please visit knowledgefest.org.

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.

 

Set to open August 20, KnowledgeFest 2016 will focus on its theme of "SHIFT." The theme stresses the importance of adapting to changing market conditions in the industry. The show, sponsored by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), will feature 50 exhibitors, a variety of manufacturer trainings and a change in the format of classes. 

"The educational component of the conference will “SHIFT,” changing from individual classes to three-class courses," said Chris Cook, president of MEA on the KnowledgeFest website, kfest.me. "Each course is intended to enhance the attendee’s educational experience with graduated lessons from class-to-class, as well as a broader view of how the chosen curriculum works within the store structure. Attendees who complete each course will receive wall certificates marking their achievement."

Setting a new record for pre-registration, 1,000 industry members signed up for the event ahead of time according to Cook. Courses include Elminate Walkers: 5 Out-of-the-Box Closing Strategies, Training and Retention: A Storewide System That Works For Everyone. and many more. 

The first day of sessions has seen a scheduling change due to inclement weather. "The Perfect Pic: Better Photography to Promote Your Business" will be moved to Monday at 3:40pm in Cortez C&D. "Public Relations: Let the Media Market For You" on Monday is cancelled. There will be no class held in Cortez C & D on Saturday at 11am. "Several conference speakers experienced cancelled flights due to the severe weather outbreak Friday afternoon and could not make it in to the Dallas area in time for their presentation," Cook said. "We apologize for the inconvenience." 

The event will also include a town hall session with manufacturers discussing integration technology and the highly anticipated Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. KnowledgeFest is being held at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas from August 20-22. Visit the KnowledgeFest web site, kfest.me, for more information.

15 Focused Classes, Expanded Show Floor and Brand-Specific Training Sessions Await Industry Attendees

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – March 3, 2016 – Mobile Electronics, dedicated to the growth and education of retail establishments in its industry, has announced that registration is open for its second annual KnowledgeFest Spring Training tradeshow and conference. The three-day event spans April 8-10 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Attendees can also reserve seats in the series of workshops and training sessions that will comprise the educational part of the event.

KnowledgeFest Spring Training features 15 educational workshops, segmented into three tracks to cover topics related to owners and managers, sales professionals and installation technicians. In addition, more than 50 brands welcome attendees to ask questions and experience the latest gear in the 42,000-square-floor exhibit area, and several hold separate training sessions to familiarize attendees with features and selling tactics of their new-for-2016 products.

"We're very proud of the fact that the instructors for our educational series all come from our industry," said Chris Cook, president of Mobile Electronics. "It not only speaks to their willingness to share their experiences for the benefit of their peers, but also to the respect they've earned as evidenced by the hundreds of professionals who come here every year to learn from them."

KnowledgeFest is the only venue that is solely dedicated to the mobile electronics industry. Through its workshops, exhibit floor and networking events, it serves to provide a meeting ground on which professionals can learn, share ideas and collaborate on solutions to common issues facing the industry.

Bryan Schmitt, president and lead instructor at Mobile Solutions in Tempe, Ariz., has been a presenter at KnowledgeFest spring and summer events for more than eight years.

"I'm pleased to continue to be a part of KnowledgeFest, and as a result, part of the industry community," said Schmitt. "Every year my team and I try to bring something fresh to teach attendees. I look forward to the opportunity to give technicians productive tips to take back to their stores."

Professionals who wish to attend KnowledgeFest Spring Training can register at www.knowledgefest.org/attendees/attendee-registration. Mobile Electronics members may attend at no charge. The fee for non-members is $149.00; however, the fee is waived if the person is invited as a VIP by an exhibiting manufacturer.

Prospective attendees can view and register for available workshop classes, reserve seats and print out a personalized itinerary at http://bit.ly/KFSpring16. Seating may be limited in some workshops, and those with reservations will be given priority access over walk-ins, according to Cook, who also noted that professionals must register to attend KnowledgeFest—in addition to workshop reservations—to participate in workshops and have access to the exhibit floor.

To simplify the process for attendees, the KnowledgeFest Spring Training schedule classes, trainings and events is available only online this year. The schedule can be accessed at www.kfest.me

The site offers several page sections, including Events, Workshops, Manufacturer Training, Exhibitors, Sponors, and a Gallery section with updated photos of the event. On-site registration is available through the website as well, to expedite the process. 

This year's event features a networking event, town hall meeting, manufacturer trainings and an invitation-only after party, hosted by Davis Distribution. For more information on the events at KnowledgeFest Spring, visit http://kfest.me/kfevents.html

Industry-dedicated show readies for Dallas event, Industry Awards

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – April 18, 2016 (MEDIAWIRE) – The Mobile Electronics Group completed the second Spring Training session of KnowledgeFest, an education and exhibiting conference series centered on advancing the knowledge and expertise of mobile electronics retail and technical professionals. Held April 8-10 in Indianapolis, the show boasted more than 750 attendees and over 40 exhibitors.

"We are extremely pleased with the turnout of the event," said Chris Cook, Mobile Electronics Group president. "We had a steady presence of retailers during exhibit floor hours and workshop attendance was strong. Exhibitors we've spoken to are pleased with the traffic they received, both in their booths and their individual product training workshops. In fact, onsite we received strong commitments from exhibitors to come back to Indy next year."

Eight meeting rooms rotated educational and manufacturer training workshops throughout the show. Attendees received peer-based instruction, tips and advice through 18 workshops segmented for owners and managers, sales professionals and installation technicians. An additional 40 workshops were allotted to exhibitors whose trainers conducted brand-specific instruction, with most opening their workshops to prospective as well as current authorized retailers.

The KnowledgeFest show schedule has been adjusted over the past few years to improve efficiency and make the time more valuable for attendees and exhibitors.  On the last day of this year's spring training venue, the exhibit floor hours were moved to the morning and educational workshops finished off the day, resulting in more face time between manufacturers and attendees. 

The next KnowledgeFest event takes place August 20-22 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. Now in its seventh year, the Dallas conference will feature more classes, a larger show floor and the finale of the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. For more information, visit KnowledgeFest.org.

New Long Beach KnowledgeFest Announced for 2018

NORTH ANDOVER, MASS. – April 18, 2017 – Mobile Electronics® has completed its KnowledgeFest® Spring Training Indianapolis. Now in its third year, this KnowledgeFest event held April 9-11 at the Indiana Convention Center has grown to more than 800 attendees and 32 exhibitors. KnowledgeFest Events are educational and exhibiting events whose audience is the mobile electronics specialist, the installing dealer.

Centered on advancing knowledge and expertise, KnowledgeFest Events educate, inform and empower mobile electronics retail and technical professionals. KnowledgeFest Spring Training featured over 29 hours of educational sessions, 39 hours of manufacturer training, and 14-plus sours of exhibit time. Spring Training highlights manufacturers’ new products now shipping and kicks-off the mobile selling season.

"Our Indy event continues to grow year-over-year," said Chris Cook, Mobile Electronics president.

“There were two drivers behind our creation of this event: First, to offer our retailer members the opportunity for training and networking; and, second, to offer our manufacturer exhibitors the opportunity to meet with their retail accounts east of the Mississippi, the mobile specialists they’re not seeing in January in Vegas. Exhibitors we spoke with onsite at space selection for our 2018 events were pleased with the traffic they received, both in their booths and their training workshops. We received strong commitments from exhibitors to come back to Indy next year and to participate in our new Spring Training Long Beach.”

In Indianapolis, Mobile Electronics announced it was adding a third KnowledgeFest event for 2018. A second Spring Training event in southern California at the Long Beach Convention Center February 23-25.  “With many manufacturers’ U.S. headquarters located in southern California, the Long Beach location allows manufacturers to meet with dealers in their own backyards and train on new products,” said Cook. “And, it allows us to offer a regional, yet nationwide approach to training and exhibiting with KnowledgeFest events in Indy for the east, Dallas central and Long Beach west.”    

For 2018, KnowledgeFest Spring Training returns to Indy and the Indiana Convention Center on March 16-18. The next KnowledgeFest event for 2017 takes place August 12-14 in Dallas at a new venue, the Dallas Convention Center. Now in its eighth year, the Dallas KnowledgeFest will feature more classes, a larger show floor and the finale of the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards. For more information, visit knowledgefest.org.

 

8-21-2016 -- During the town hall panel on the KnowledgeFest opening night, five industry vendors presented their opinions on the industry's current status and how it can adapt to changing technological threats, including OEM advancements. The answers centered on the need for retailers to stay on top of ermerging technology and finding a way to communicate its usefulness to consumers.

The presenters included Jeff Fay from Harman, Brett Riggs from AAMP Global, Mark Ruttledge from Automotive Data Solutions, Manville Smith of JL Audio and Bryan Schmitt of Mobile Solutions. After the conclusion of their presentations, Chris Cook, president of the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), asked the panel several questions about how the industry can "SHIFT" with technological trends. Core ideas from the group included using passion to drive innovation, which will in-turn inspire customers to want to learn more about 12-volt products, taking products out into the community to events as a marketing tool and relating to customers by installing powerful systems in the vehicles of those who are selling. 

"We need our own systems in our cars," stressed Schmitt, who received an applause for the comment. "We need something compelling. I put a system in my wife's car and played her favorite artist, Norah Jones. She cried and I thought 'This is what it's all about.'" Jeff Fay added to the idea by suggesting owners/managers install systems in their employees' cars to help empower them to take more ownership of both the products and business as a whole. 

The event closed a successful opening day that saw classrooms filled to capacity with many attendees having to stand in the halls while watching classes through doorways. The event continues through Monday, concluding with the Industry Awards on Monday night. For more information, visit kfest.me.

 

South Point Hotel and Casino to host KnowledgeFest and the Industry Awards
 
North Andover, MA (June 21, 2021) – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announces a new location for KnowledgeFest™ West to be held at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on February 18-20, 2022. For the past three years KnowledgeFest West was held in Long Beach California where attendance grew each year while attracting more retailers from outside the typical 300-mile radius.
 
“Although Long Beach exceeded our expectations as our fastest growing KnowledgeFest event, Las Vegas is a more convenient destination for accommodating retailers traveling from many locations on the West coast and from Canada” said MEA President, Chris Cook.
 
KnowledgeFest Las Vegas will kick off the 2022 Education and Trade-Show line up which includes Indianapolis (April 1-3), Orlando (June 10-12) and in Dallas (August 26-28). Now with four events across the country, KnowledgeFest solidifies its position as THE Mobile Electronics industry’s educational venue featuring member exhibitors showcasing their latest products and technology for attending retailers.  
 
Adding to the excitement, the winners of the 2021 Mobile Electronics® Industry Awards will be honored at the new Las Vegas event. “The Industry Awards will be better aligned to celebrate a full year of recognition.” stated Cook. “The mobile electronics industry will celebrate those that exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, business ethics, service, and expertise.”
 
KnowledgeFest 2022 will showcase more than 100 exhibitors, representing over 125 brands. The education and training will represent 500+ hours of Owner/Sales/Installer Workshops and Vendor Training sessions. It will attract more than 6,000 attendees throughout the year seeking to learn more about their profession, networking with like-minded industry professionals, and discovering new technologies, products, and services from exhibitors.
 
“With over 25 years of serving the Mobile Electronics Industry, KnowledgeFest is established as the most respected educational event of our time.” stated MEA Chairman, Tony Frangiosa. “MEA and the mobile electronics industry are set to succeed well into the future as retailers coast-to-coast take advantage of this valuable experience.”
 
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
 
Media Contact:
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NORTH ANDOVER September 12, 2016—Mobile Electronics® announced final figures for its August 20-22 KnowledgeFest educational conference and show in Dallas. Record-breaking attendance topped more than 1,300 mobile electronics industry professionals. The increase over 2015 can be attributed to more attendees from outside the Texas region, more attendees from the West Coast and more attendees from the Midwest and upper Midwest.

Nearly 500 attendees were from outside the six-hour drive from Dallas, a measurement used by Mobile Electronics to gauge its attendee market. With a growing Indianapolis KnowledgeFest, more mobile specialists have discovered the educational workshops and training offered at KnowledgeFest and are willing to travel to take advantage of this programming. KnowledgeFest has become the mobile electronics industry’s largest educational event. Dealer attendance at the over 80 hours of workshops and trainings in Dallas increased greatly over 2015.

“We are fast becoming this industry’s showcase for new technology, product and educational programming,” said Chris Cook, president of Mobile Electronics.

The Dallas show floor featured a record-breaking 53exhibitorsrepresenting the top brands in the mobile electronics industry and specialist channel.

In 2017, KnowledgeFest will return to Dallas in August. KnowledgeFest Indianapolis takes place April 10-12 at the Indianapolis Convention Center. For more information, go to KnowledgeFest.com.

NORTH ANDOVER January 3, 2017 — Mobile Electronics® announced that after its record setting KnowledgeFest attendance in Dallas, it has secured larger exhibit halls for both its 2017 KnowledgeFest events. It’s moving the KnowledgeFest Dallas show and educational conference to the Dallas Convention Center. Dates for the 2017 Dallas event are August 12-14. 

“KnowledgeFest Dallas is growing with more exhibitors, programming and attendees,” said Kerry Moyer, vice president strategic partnerships, Mobile Electronics. “2016 was a record-breaking event. We had to redraw the exhibit floor four times to accommodate the number of new exhibitors. With growing booth sizes, to meet our and our exhibitors’ needs, we decided it was time to move from the hotel-based venue to the larger show floor provided by the Dallas Convention Center.” 

Also, for 2017, Mobile Electronics is moving its Indianapolis-based KnowledgeFest (April 10-12) to a larger hall in the Indiana Convention Center. “We started small, and now in our third year, we want the flexibility to meet expected growth,” said Moyer. KnowledgeFest “Spring Training” is the kickoff event for the new products being introduced now. Manufacturers can train and educate dealers on features, benefits and installation techniques of their new products. 

KnowledgeFest shows and educational conferences are the electronics industry’s only events specifically targeted to the 12-volt mobile specialist, the installing dealer. KnowledgeFest three-day events combine an exhibit floor featuring the top brands in mobile electronics with educational workshops and manufacturer training sessions; making them the mobile electronics industry’s largest educational events.

For more information, go to www.knowledgefest.org.  For exhibit sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Mobile Electronics® group has added 7,500 square feet of exhibit space to make room for its new exhibitors at the second annual KnowledgeFest Spring event in April. Attendance for this year’s trade show and training event is expected to double over the previous year as a result of several manufacturers incorporating their regional training efforts into KnowledgeFest Spring 2016.
The event will be held April 8-10, 2016 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. The Spring Training show floor is projected to feature more than 50 brands from manufacturer and vendor exhibitors throughout 42,000 square feet of exhibit space and 10 meeting rooms.
The Spring Training event provides dealers a top-notch venue in the midst of the new-product shipping season, allowing attendees and exhibitors to network and train on the latest mobile electronics technology. First time manufacturer exhibitors for KnowledgeFest Spring include
JL Audio, Sony, AudioControl, AAMP Global and Accele, all of who will be holding brand specific training on-site for their authorized dealers.
“We are extremely pleased to have these new exhibitors join us at KnowledgeFest Spring Training 2016, most of them have been supporting our Dallas event for several years” said Chris Cook, Mobile Electronics Group President. “Their support recognizes this event as the best opportunity to provide quality sales and installation training during the launch of their new products and services introduced earlier this year at CES”.
KnowledgeFest Trade Shows and Conferences are the mobile electronics industry’s largest educational events. This year’s events combined will offer more than 80 hours of business management, sales and installation training along with nearly 120 hours of manufacturer specific training. Additionally, some of the industry’s best known training organizations such as BusinessWorx, Del Ellis International, Mobile Solutions, Sonus Evolution and MECP will also be participating and exhibiting.
In 2016, KnowledgeFest will also return to Dallas August 20-22. For more information about either event, go to KnowledgeFest.org.

North Andover, MA – July 9, 2019 – Celebrating 25 Years this August, KnowledgeFest™ Dallas, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association, will be the largest KnowledgeFest event to date. The event will cover 110,000 sq. ft. of exhibits, include more than 65 exhibitors representing more than 80 brands, and more than 125 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training. Advance registration is up 20% over last year’s Dallas event which hosted more than 1,700 attendees.

“KnowledgeFest Dallas is our flagship event. It’s exciting to be celebrating our 25th anniversary there,” said Chris Cook, President of MEA. “Since taking ownership of KnowledgeFest ten years ago, MEA is pleased with the growth and success of the event. Next year, KnowledgeFest goes coast-to-coast with our new event in Orlando joining our other regional events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas.” KnowledgeFestis the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer.

To commemorate the 25th anniversary, a special celebratory concert will be held on Saturday, August 10 at the House of Blues featuring the Chris Weaver Band. The event is sponsored by Sony, 2018 Vendor of the Year, and DOW Electronics, 2018 Distributor of the Year. “We’re excited to be partnering with MEA and hosting this special event to celebrate not only the 25th anniversary of KnowledgeFest, but all MEA has done to support the 12-volt industry,” said Dave Elkin, Sr. Vice President, DOW Electronics.

Saturday morning kicks off with a dynamic presentation from Bob Phibbs - the Retail Doctor, sponsored by Rockford Fosgate. In his keynote – "You Can Compete: How to Stop getting Your Butt Kicked by Online Competitors” – Phibbs will show retailers how to harness the advantages brick-and-mortar retailers have over online sellers. Attendees will discover how to engage customers, make bigger sales and sell more.

On Sunday evening, August 11, the winners of the annual Mobile Electronics® Industry Awards will be honored. Sponsored by Mobile Electronics® magazine, the Awards recognize those in the mobile electronics industry that exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, business ethics, service and expertise. The top 50 finalists for the awards can be found at http://meindustryawards.com/2019-winners/

For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org

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.

North Andover, MA – June 23, 2020 – KnowledgeFest™ Dallas, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), will be held this Fall, September 25-27, 2020. The event will cover over 100,000 sq. ft. of exhibits, include more than 50 exhibitors representing more than 70 brands, and more than 100 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training. Advance registration is open for the event and for the host hotel, Omni Dallas. The Dallas 2019 event had more than 2,000 in attendance. For 2020, MEA is anticipating strong participation albeit not record setting. The Dallas event will add a live element making a must attend either in person or online for education and training.
 
“KnowledgeFest Dallas is our flagship event” said Chris Cook, President of MEA.“Those attending this year’s event should know that we put their health and safety at the top of our list. We have collected information regarding the best-known processes and procedures designed to provide attendees with a safe and successful education, training, and trade show experience. We look forward to providing all participants an event that allows them to come together and learn from one another.
 
In addition to the KnowledgeFest event, the highly anticipated Mobile Electronics® Industry Awards will be held Sunday evening September 27th to honor the best of the best for our Industry. The Awards recognize those in the Mobile Electronics industry that exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, business ethics, service, and expertise. More information about the Awards can be found at: https://meindustryawards.com/.
 
This year MEA was to launch a highly anticipated new event in Orlando. That event is now set to launch in the Spring of 2021. Next year, KnowledgeFest will be coast-to-coast with our new event in Orlando joining our other regional events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas.” KnowledgeFestis the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer.
 
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
  • September 25-27, 2020 - Dallas, TX
  • February 12-14, 2021 - Long Beach, CA
  • April 9-11, 2021 - Indianapolis, IN
  • June 2021 - 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.
Media Contact:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
North Andover, MA – July 21, 2020 – KnowledgeFest™ Dallas, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), will be held this Fall, September 25-27, 2020. The event will cover over 100,000 sq. ft. of exhibits, include more than 50 exhibitors representing more than 70 brands, and more than 100 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training. Advance registration is open for the event and for the host hotel, Omni Dallas. The Dallas 2019 event had more than 2,000 in attendance. For 2020, MEA is anticipating strong participation albeit not record setting. The Dallas event will add a live element making a must attend either in person or online for education and training. For official information on the event please go to http://www.knowledgefest.org/.
 
“KnowledgeFest Dallas is our flagship event” said Chris Cook, President of MEA.“Those attending this year’s event should know that we put their health and safety at the top of our list. We have collected information regarding the best-known processes and procedures designed to provide attendees with a safe and successful education, training, and trade show experience. We look forward to providing all participants an event that allows them to come together and learn from one another.
 
In addition to the KnowledgeFest event, the highly anticipated Mobile Electronics® Industry Awards will be held Sunday evening September 27th to honor the best of the best for our Industry. The Awards recognize those in the Mobile Electronics industry that exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, business ethics, service, and expertise. More information about the Awards can be found at: https://meindustryawards.com/.
 
This year MEA was to launch a highly anticipated new event in Orlando. That event is now set to launch in the Summer of 2021. Next year, KnowledgeFest will be coast-to-coast with our new event in Orlando joining our other regional events in Long Beach, Indianapolis and Dallas.” KnowledgeFest is the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer.
 
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
  • September 25-27, 2020 - Dallas, TX
  • February 12-14, 2021 - Long Beach, CA
  • April 9-11, 2021 - Indianapolis, IN
  • June 25-27, 2021 - 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.
 
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978-645-6434
Registered Attendees Have a Chance to Win a Ford F-150 
 
North Andover, MA – June 24, 2024 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is thrilled to announce the details for KnowledgeFest Dallas 2024, one of the premier events for the mobile electronics industry.
 
Due to construction at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center KnowledgeFest will be held at one of Hilton's premiere resort locations, Hilton Anatole Dallas from September 20-22. Renowned for its upscale amenities including several restaurants, Top Golf, a water park, and newly renovated accommodations, the Hilton Anatole promises a world-class setting for this pivotal industry gathering.
 
KnowledgeFest was previously held at Hilton Anatole during 2014-2016. This year will mark the 15th year that KnowledgeFest will be in Dallas since produced by MEA.
 
Recognizing the growing Truck Accessory category, registered attendees will have the chance to win a Ford F-150 outfitted with cutting-edge aftermarket technology from top brand manufacturers.
 
KnowledgeFest is the industry's leading educational and networking event, bringing together professionals and enthusiasts from across the mobile electronics sector to learn about the latest technologies, trends, and business strategies.
 
Register now and join us at KnowledgeFest Dallas 2024 for three days of innovation, celebration, and industry excellence. For more details about registration, accommodations, sponsorship opportunities, and event schedule, please visit KnowledgeFest.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
 
# # #
Becomes new home to kick off the year for the Mobile Electronics industry
 
North Andover, MA – March 7, 2022 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) introduced a new location for a KnowledgeFest in Las Vegas marking an important milestone for retuning the industry back to Las Vegas with an exciting and record-breaking event.
 
Held at the South Point Hotel and Convention Center, February 18-20, the event hosted more than 1,500 attendees, 50 exhibitors with over 30 show vehicles and 80,000 sq.ft. of indoor exhibit space. The experience also delivered over 100 hours of informative vendor training and targeted educational workshops that took place over the three-day event.
 
“The Las Vegas event had an exciting energy that we attribute in part to how long it has been since we all were together as an industry,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Looking at the numbers, we were excited going into the event, but the turn-out and attendee engagement was beyond our expectations. Many industry members shared that it felt like a homecoming for our industry.”
 
MEA keeps that momentum going for 2022 as KnowledgeFest goes coast-to-coast with three additional events: Indianapolis, Orlando, and Dallas. Now with four strategically located annual events, Mobile Electronics specialists—both retailers and manufacturers—have recognized the great value of KnowledgeFest for delivering education, manufacturer training, and the opportunity to network while reviewing the latest technologies.
 
“Las Vegas exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the event as nearly all signed up for KnowledgeFest Las Vegas for 2023.” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Their show of support coupled with the great reviews from the attendees solidifies Las Vegas as a new home for KnowledgeFest.”
 
The event closed Sunday evening with the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards hosted by the Mobile Electronics® Association and Sponsored by new MEA partner, SNAP Finance. Top awards went to Marty Adamschek - Installer of the Year, Titan Motoring - Retailer of the Year, Robert Kowatch - Sales Pro of the Year, and HKI USA - Vendor of the Year. The full list of winners can be found at MEIndustryAwards.com.
 
MEA thanks its partners and sponsors for their help in supporting the Las Vegas event and the Mobile Electronics industry.
 
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
• April 1-3, 2022 – Indianapolis, IN
• June 10-12, 2022 – Orlando, FL
• August 26-28, 2022 – Dallas, TX
• February 3-5, 2023 – 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
MEA cancels the in-person event in response to new COVID threat level in Dallas
 
North Andover, MA – October 16, 2020 – Despite a strong number of retailers in the Dallas area indicating a willingness to attend KnowledgeFest LIVE, the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today that it had to cancel the in-person portion of KnowledgeFest LIVE in December due to new Dallas County orders regarding COVID-19 health guidance for the public which recently changed to their highest-level Red meaning “Stay at home, stay safe”.
 
“It’s unfortunate as our industry was looking forward to having a live event.” said Chris Cook, MEA President. “We had strong support from exhibitors and retailers wanting to attend in-person. We will now target all of our efforts towards delivering a valuable virtual KnowledgeFest LIVE event”.
MEA expects to conduct webinars over the next few weeks to demonstrate the virtual event for attendees and exhibitors. KnowledgeFest LIVE was always going to include a virtual experience to accommodate both retailers and manufacturers not able to attend due to company travel restrictions.
 
The event will be presented through a new digital platform allowing attendees to participate in education workshops, manufacturer trainings, and take a virtual tour of exhibitor booths.
 
KnowledgeFest LIVE will also announce and celebrate the winners of the Mobile Electronics Industry Awards during a special live evening event.
 
To register for KnowledgeFest LIVE or get information on how your company can become an exhibitor, visit KnowledgeFest.org
 
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
  • December 4-6, 2020 - Virtual
  • February 9-11, 2021 - Long Beach, CA
  • April 9-11, 2021 - Indianapolis, IN
  • June 25-27, 2021 - Orlando, FL
  • August 6-8, 2021 – 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:
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978-645-6434


Copyright - Mobile Electronics Association 2020