MEA announces the next event for the Mobile Electronics Industry
North Andover, MA – February 16, 2021 – The Mobile Electronics Association announced the next Live Virtual event to be held March 19-21, 2021. KnowledgeFest is going West to provide great education and training for the many retailers that will not be able to benefit from an in-person event in the first half of 2021. The event will be held on Pacific Time to include the many retailers that would have attended the Long Beach California KnowledgeFest event. While focused on the Western half of the nation, the great thing about a virtual event is that everyone can attend regardless of their geographic location.
“The industry can expect highly relevant education workshops taught by some of the best instructors in the industry.” said Chris Cook, MEA President. “In addition, top manufacturers will be featuring education on their products and services all in an effort to better prepare specialty retailers for the 2021 selling season.” “We took the time to survey the retailers that attended the past three KnowledgeFest Long Beach events and they overwhelmingly stated that they would attend a virtual event targeted towards the Pacific Time Zone.” added Cook.
While nothing can replace the excitement of an in-person event, KnowledgeFest LIVE is designed to deliver a feeling of connection that will help the industry enjoy the awesome education, vendor training, and networking KnowledgeFest is known to provide.
MEA expects to conduct webinars over the next few weeks to demonstrate the virtual event for attendees and exhibitors. KnowledgeFest LIVE is a virtual experience for retailers, sales reps, and manufacturers to connect when in-person events are not possible. The event will be presented through MEA’s digital platform allowing attendees to participate in education workshops, manufacturer trainings, and take a virtual tour of exhibitor spaces
To register for KnowledgeFest West LIVE or get information on how your company can become an exhibitor, visit KnowledgeFestWest.Live.
Mark your Calendars for Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- - March 19-21, 2021 – Virtual Event
- - June 25-27, 2021 – Orlando, FL – In-Person and Live Streaming
- - August 27-29, 2021 – Dallas, TX – In-Person and Live Streaming
- - October 8-10, 2021 – Indianapolis, IN – In-Person and Live Streaming
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
###
Top Manufacturers announced new products, provided great exhibits, and important training sessions
North Andover, MA – June 16, 2022 – The Mobile Electronics Association, the Industry’s Leading Trade Association, reports a successful year two in Orlando. The first step was establishing the event in 2021. While a launch mid-pandemic was a challenge, it solidified this new KnowledgeFest as an important event for the southeast and beyond. Year two provided growth in every area including the number of exhibitors, education and training sessions, and attendees.
The event boasted 60,000 sq. ft. of exhibits, include more than 45 exhibitors representing more than 60 brands, and more than 100 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training. Attendance was strong for a second-year event with nearly 900 industry professionals in attendance.
“KnowledgeFest Orlando is our newest event, and it is exciting to be celebrate a strong forth event that caters to the Southeast, mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and beyond,” said Chris Cook, President of MEA. “KnowledgeFest now delivers a truly coast-to-coast footprint when combined with our other events in Las Vegas, Indianapolis, and Dallas that combined now serve over 4,500 specialty retailers nationwide.” 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:
-
-- August 26-28, 2022 - Dallas, TX
-
-- February 5-7, 2023 – Las Vegas, NV
-
-- May 5-7, 2023 – Orlando, FL
-
-- June 23-25, 2023 – Indianapolis, IN
-
-- August 2023 – 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:
Chris Cook
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
North Andover, MA – May 18, 2021 – KnowledgeFest™ Orlando, produced by the Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), will be held June 25-27, 2021 at the Orange County Convention Center. The event debut will host exhibitors from top brands as well as more than 100 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training. Registration is open for the event and for the host hotel, Rosen Centre Hotel. For 2021, MEA is anticipating strong return in participation to KnowledgeFest for 2021 starting with a new first-time event in Orlando Florida. For official information on the event please go to http://www.knowledgefest.org/.
“KnowledgeFest is the only industry event devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. The addition of the event in Orlando brings KnowledgeFest to a coast-to-coast nationwide audience” said Chris Cook, President of MEA. “Combining an exhibit floor with dealer education and manufacturer training, KnowledgeFest delivers a tremendous value for the entire industry."
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.
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- August 27-29, 2020 - Dallas, TX
- October 8-10, 2021 - Indianapolis, IN
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, MASS. – March 21, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced last weekend’s KnowledgeFest™ Indianapolis event had a strong showing from both retailers and manufacturers.
In its fifth year, the 2019 event held at the downtown Indiana Convention Center boasted a sold-out show floor with 50 exhibitors and 60,000 square feet of exhibit space. There was a strong showing of new exhibitors from new companies. New product categories offered new business opportunities for retailers, while the wide-open market with Indianapolis at its center presented exhibiting manufacturers with an opportunity for business development. Most key companies from the 12-volt specialty industry had a presence.
“We had great turn-out from dealers for Friday’s ‘Beer & Business” kick-off,” said Chris Cook, MEA president. “Exhibitors reported strong traffic over all three days of the event. Even before the close, many expressed they were extremely satisfied with the event. After onsite space selection, we left Indy with strong booth sales for next March’s Indy KnowledgeFest. We’re coming back! My message to 12-volt manufacturers is this: ‘If you weren’t in Indy this year, be there next year! Don’t write-off this market.”
With 20% year-over-year growth in Indy over the past five years, MEA reported attendance totaling more than 1000 with more than 775 retailer and distributor attendees.
“MEA thanks Davis Distribution for its awesome support of our Indy event,” said Cook. “Working with their manufacturer partners, all did an exceptional job helping to drive retailer attendance and business.”
KnowledgeFest 2019 concludes with its Dallas event: August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center.
2020 KnowledgeFest Dates:
- Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 7-9, 2020
- Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
- NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
- Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 21-23, 2020
About KnowledgeFest
KnowledgeFest is now coast to coast. Its four regional trade-only events cover the eastern, southeastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.." style="color: #000000;">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.
Providing over 45 hours of great education for the Mobile Electronics industry
North Andover, MA – March 19, 2021 – The Mobile Electronics Association kicks off their second virtual KnowledgeFest event focused on West Coast specialty retailers. The event starts today, Friday, March 19th and continues through Sunday, March 21st and will be held on Pacific Time to include the many retailers that would have attended the Long Beach California KnowledgeFest event. While focused on the Western half of the nation, the virtual event is great for everyone to attend regardless of their Time Zone. The event will produce three keynotes, 21 education workshops, and 22 manufacturer training sessions for over 45 hours of valuable education.
“While nothing can replace the excitement of an in-person event, KnowledgeFest LIVE is designed to deliver a feeling of connection that will help the industry enjoy the awesome education, vendor training, and networking KnowledgeFest is known to provide.” said Chris Cook, MEA President. “Our virtual experience delivers the best way to connect when in-person events are not yet possible.
The event will be presented through MEA’s digital event platform allowing attendees to participate in education workshops, manufacturer trainings, and take a virtual tour of exhibitor spaces to preview their featured products and show vehicles.
For more information on KnowledgeFest West LIVE or to Regsiter for the event visit KnowledgeFestWest.Live.
Mark your Calendars for Upcoming KnowledgeFest in-person events:
June 25-27, 2021 – Orlando, FL – In-Person with Live Streaming
August 27-29, 2021 – Dallas, TX – In-Person with Live Streaming
October 8-10, 2021 – Indianapolis, IN – In-Person with Live Streaming
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, MASS. – March 11, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) today announced KnowledgeFest™, in its second year at the Long Beach Convention Center, marked another success:
- Attendance grew to more than 1500 attendees, including more than 900 retailer and 100 distributer attendees;
- The number of exhibitors increased to 53; occupying more than 70,000 square feet of exhibit space;
- 30 Hours of educational workshops; and
- A record-setting 68 hours of manufacturer trainings.
“Attendance-wise, this year in Long Beach our audience of mobile specialists was on par with last August’s KnowledgeFest Dallas, which is our long-standing flagship event now in its tenth year,” stated Chris Cook, MEA president. “This year’s increase in the number of exhibitors maxed-out the Long Beach show floor in its present configuration. We have room to expand for next year, and we’re planning some interesting new things to take advantage of that space.”
This weekend, March 15-17, KnowledgeFest sets its sights on Indianapolis. The Friday through Sunday event at the Indiana Convention Center brings its industry-recognized educational and training program and trade show floor to the Indy marketplace.
“2019 marks our fifth year in Indy. Yet, some in our industry still sell the Indy market short,” according to Cook. “KnowledgeFest Indy continues to grow with year-over-year growth. Attendee pre-registration is up more than 30 percent this year. Indy covers the market east of the Mississippi: the east coast and near east—cities, such as Pittsburgh and Cleveland. It's dealers from these markets who don’t show up for CES but are coming to Indy. There are manufacturers who recognize the value. After several expansions, our 2019 show floor is sold out.”
Kicking-off Indy, after a full day of educational sessions and manufacturer trainings, the show floor opens Friday at 4 PM for “Beer & Business”. This business-first event provides dealers and vendors with a relaxed setting to meet, see first-hand new products and do some business.
KnowledgeFest 2019 concludes with its Dallas event: August 9-11 at the Dallas Convention Center.
2020 KnowledgeFest Dates:
- Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California, February 7-9, 2020
- Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 27-29, 2020
- NEW for 2020! Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, May 15-17, 2020
- Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, Texas, August 21-23, 2020
About KnowledgeFest
KnowledgeFest is now coast to coast. Its four regional trade-only events cover the eastern, southeastern, central and western US and Canada. KnowledgeFest combines a tradeshow floor with educational programming and training for dealers. KnowledgeFests are the only industry events dedicated to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer. For more information and to register to attend, go to www.knowledgefest.org. For exhibitor sales, contact Kerry Moyer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.." style="color: #000000;">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest®, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers.
Mobile Electronics March Issue, 3-1-2016 -- Everything starts small. Children grow into adults. Small seeds blossom into giant redwood trees. And small businesses that wish to learn and improve come together to form internationally recognized trade shows. SEMA, for example, started in 1963 with a group of small automotive manufacturers who supplied performance equipment for early hot rods. After 40 years, it became what it is: an industry giant, featuring thousands of companies and hundreds of show cars, all having joined over time, despite several name changes and makeovers to the event over the years.
KnowledgeFest, now in its 23rd year, has grown and changed in similar ways with a name change (formerly referred to by many retailers as MERA), growing attendance from both manufacturers and retailers, adding activities (like the Industry Awards) and changing venues over the years. Now, held in Dallas at a luxurious hotel and including more seminars and events than ever before, it's outgrown being just an annual event.
After last year's highly successful first-time effort, KnowledgeFest Spring Training is back to offer an alternative for some and an expansion for others looking to improve their businesses. Located at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, this year's show will emphasize more focused seminars and product trainings from the biggest names in 12-volt. The event has more exhibitors, requiring an addition of 7,500 square feet of exhibit space to make room for those new companies. First time manufacturer exhibitors for the event will include JL Audio, Sony, AudioControl, AAMP Global and Accele.
“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 in a recent press release. “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."
Over 50 brands are scheduled to be featured within 42,000 square feet of exhibit space and 10 meeting rooms at the event. Given the timeliness of the event coinciding with new product releases, dealers can expect trainings on the ins and outs of the newest products from top manufacturers.
Continue the rest of the story HERE.
The entire family of Maxxsonics audio brands will be in attendance at booth #1107 for KnowledgeFest Las Vegas 2024
Libertyville, IL – Maxxsonics is excited to be in attendance at KnowledgeFest Las Vegas 2024 this year. The event takes place from February 2nd through the 4th at the Paris Hotel & Convention Center in Las Vegas Nevada. Taking audio to new heights across MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek, the entire family of Maxxsonics audio brands will be in attendance at KnowledgeFest 2024.
Founded in 1994 by a group of specialty retailers and reps in the Midwest, KnowledgeFest brings together knowledge and experiences from participants within the Mobile Electronics industry. KnowledgeFest includes over 27 educational workshops, 70 manufacturer trainings, incredible networking opportunities, and a trade show featuring manufacturer and benefit-provider exhibits. Maxxsonics will be ready to talk one-on-one with dealers, specialty manufacturers, and others in attendance spreading insight and knowledge on the audio horizons of MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek.
We hope you can be a part of KnowledgeFest 2024 and join us in taking our knowledge and mobile electronic insights to the next level!
Follow the link to learn more details and complete event information on KnowledgeFest 2024. https://www.knowledgefest.org/
Follow the link to register as an attendee.
https://www.knowledgefest.org/register
Established in 2001 and headquartered in Libertyville, IL, Maxxsonics is a global leader in the Mobile, Marine, and Powersports audio industries. Innovating products that bring out the best in audio and sound, Maxxsonics specializes in designing and manufacturing amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, and accessories branded; Hifonics, MB Quart, Crunch, and Autotek. Additionally - Maxxsonics is the premier OEM audio supplier of audio solutions/systems for Kawasaki off-road vehicles, Polaris® off-road vehicles, and CFMOTO. Founded by a handful of consumer electronics and automotive security veterans – Maxxsonics products are now heard and experienced around the world.
After a well-received but loosely attended first year, KnowledgeFest Spring Training has become a rousing success in its second, shattering its previous attendance and adding more vendors to help train dealers on new products for the coming selling seasons.
5-1-2016, Mobile Electronics, May 2016 Issue -- Sometimes in life, you need a trial run. You get an idea, try it out and learn from it to improve for next time. Such was the case for KnowledgeFest Spring Training when it was first introduced to the 12-volt industry in April 2015. Since then, the show-runners at Mobile Electronics Group have listened to their audience and made adjustments to craft an experience worthy of the precedent that its namesake event set in Dallas.
In its first year, the event drew around 350 attendees and had a turn-out that was below expectations for its Mobile Electronics show, where industry manufacturers set up booths to mingle with current and future dealers. This year, the three-day event which took place April eighth to April 10 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind., drew over 750 retailers and 40 manufacturers. In comparison, KnowledgeFest in Dallas has drawn around 1,000 retailers on average each year.
The event featured three elements for retailers to take part in: educational seminars, taught by various experts in and around the industry, manufacturer trainings and the Mobile Electronics Show, where manufacturers set up booths to showcase the latest products and mingle with attendees. The latter represents what the event has become since its inception—an opportunity for networking between everyone in the industry, to share ideas and help progress the industry as a whole.
"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."
The seminars and trainings were housed in eight meeting rooms that rotated throughout the show. Attendees received peer-based instruction, tips and advice through 18 workshops segmented for owners and managers, sales professionals and installation technicians.
Exhibitors hosted 40 workshops to focus on brand-specific instruction, with most opening their workshops to prospective and current authorized retailers. On the last day of the event, 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.
Check out the rest of the story by Clicking HERE
MEA Announces Enhanced Schedule, New Exhibitors, and Increased Attendance for KnowledgeFest Dallas
North Andover, MA – September 5, 2024 – Mobile Electronics Association is pleased to announce an important update to the show floor schedule for the upcoming KnowledgeFest Dallas event. In response to feedback and to optimize the overall experience for both exhibitors and attendees, we have revised the schedule to enhance exhibit floor traffic and streamline event operations.
Starting this year, we will be implementing the following changes:
- -- Additional Exhibit Floor Time: We are extending the exhibit floor schedule on Friday to include more opportunities for engagement, including an extended "Beer and Biz" networking session.
- -- Sunday Schedule Adjustment: The 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM exhibit period on Sunday has been removed. This adjustment will allow attendees to focus on the education workshops.
Sony and MSC America where recently added to the exhibitor lineup which already includes brands The 12V Dashboard, Audiofrog, Audiopipe, BackRack, Bak, CompuStar, DB Drive, Directed, DOW Technologies, Dynamat, Epsilon, Fahrenheit, Firstech, Go Rhino, Grom Audio, Harman, Havoc, Husky, iDatalink Maestro, Infinity, InstallerNet, Intoxalock, JBL, Kicker Maestro, Momento, NFab, Peel 3d, Power Acoustic, PrecisionPower, Major League FAB, MotoTV, RealTruck, RuggedRidge, SiriusXM, Snap Finance, Soundstream, Stetsom, Suono Audio, Trulli, Truxedo, Undercover, Wattstar, and Voxx.
"We are excited about hosting another successful Dallas event with early registration retailer attendance trending 20% more than last year" said Chris Cook, President of Mobile Electronics Association. “with the addition of Truck Tech Expo sponsored by RealTruck and its category specific education, we anticipate a highly engaging and productive event."
Registered retailer attendees will have the unique opportunity to invite a limited number of enthusiast customers for an escorted tour of the show floor exhibits on Saturday afternoon. This initiative aims to provide dealers with a valuable chance to showcase their authorized brands and foster key customer relationships.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com
Media Contact:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
# # #
4-10-2017 -- During the town hall presentation at KnowledgeFest Spring Training in Indianapolis, Ind., Mobile Electronics Association President Chris Cook announced the upcoming dates for the next three KnowledgeFest events, including the first ever California KnowledgeFest event in Feb. 2018.
"We are on a mission to educate, inform and empower the industry... Our next event is going to be in Dallas. It's coming up August 12th through 14th," Cook said. "Our new event is going to be in Long Beach, [Calif.] February 23rd through 25th for all of our West coast friends."
Next year's spring training event will take place March 17 through 19 in the Indianapolis, returning the event to a weekend after taking place at the beginning of the week this year. This year's KnowledgeFest in Dallas will be held at the Dallas Convention Center due to it outgrowing the previous venue. The Omni Hotel will serve as the main hotel for the event and a surprise location has been chosen for the industry awards.
New extended service plan option now available to MEA members
North Andover, MA – July 29, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today a new partnership with Centricity that will enable MEA members to offer extended service plans to their customers. The service option, Protection Plus from MEA, can be integrated with MEA’s point-of-sale software program, TSS, and is also available as a standalone purchase option. Service plans are available nationwide and include removal and re-installation of covered mobile products for up to three years.
“As the connected devices market grows, we are partnering with companies who share the same vision to offer solutions around these products,” said Mike Kelly of Centricity. “Our product provides benefits to both the customer and retailer, delivering a customer experience beyond the point of sale.”
“We’re excited to partner with Centricity to offer this new service to our members”, said Chris Cook, President, MEA. “Extended service plans present an opportunity for our members to improve the sales experience and build stronger relationships with their customers. They also create an additional revenue stream.”
Protection Plus from MEA will be launched at MEA’s upcoming KnowledgeFest event taking place August 9-11 in Dallas, TX. Visit Mobile-Electronics.com to learn more.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
About Centricity
Centricity, a service and protection powerhouse, provides comprehensive risk management solutions centered around the customer. The company is a privately-held and wholly-owned subsidiary of Bankers Financial Corporation (BFC). Since 1976, BFC has been the corporate parent to a diverse set of businesses, including property and casualty insurance companies, a professional employer organization (PEO) for small business, and a financial services company. With assets over $500 million, Bankers Financial Corporation employs more than 800 associates throughout the United States.
Centricity, a service and protection powerhouse, provides comprehensive risk management solutions centered around the customer. The company is a privately-held and wholly-owned subsidiary of Bankers Financial Corporation (BFC). Since 1976, BFC has been the corporate parent to a diverse set of businesses, including property and casualty insurance companies, a professional employer organization (PEO) for small business, and a financial services company. With assets over $500 million, Bankers Financial Corporation employs more than 800 associates throughout the United States.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – October 16, 2019 – Kerry Moyer, MEA’s vice president of strategic partnerships, has announced he is retiring from MEA. Prior to joining MEA’s senior management team in 2014, Moyer worked with the Consumer Electronics Association (now CTA) and earlier in his career was a partner in a chain of audio-video-mobile electronics stores local to the Washington, DC-area.
Since joining the MEA team, Moyer increased revenue by developing innovative partnership programs for manufacturer members exhibiting at KnowledgeFest. Moyer was instrumental in engaging and supporting new partners and helped launch additional KnowledgeFest events (Indianapolis, Long Beach and soon in Orlando) making KnowledgeFest a national education conference and trade show event.
“I will miss working with my friend and colleague,” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We’ve spent many years together in this industry, and I will miss Kerry’s insight and advice. Many times, he added a voice of reason. Kerry has always brought integrity and customer service to his sales relationships.”
“I have been blessed to work in this industry in jobs that I loved. After 43 years and three careers, I’m going to work on my ‘retirement’ and carry-on with my consulting business. I won’t be sitting still. I plan on cycling and traveling, and I’ll always be on the lookout for new challenges and opportunities.”
MEA will be launching a new more-simplified partnership program for 2020 allowing manufacturer members to customize an offering to meet their marketing, education and budget needs. Chris Cook will be leading the new enterprise program efforts and Kerry Moyer will remain with MEA to provide consultation and support during the transition.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
- March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
- ·May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL
- August 14-16, 2020, Dallas, TX
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – August 2, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), owner and producer of KnowledgeFest™, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lynn Swezey to the position of Director of Member Services. In this role, Swezey will oversee programs and benefits related to MEA’s retail memberships, as well as manage Knowledgefest education tracks and special events.
“With more than 1,100 members and the addition of a fourth KnowledgeFest event coming to Orlando, Fl. in May of 2020, we recognize the need to add resources to our team in order to meet the increasing growth of our retail membership.” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We are so pleased to have Lynn join us at such a crucial time.”
Swezey brings a wide range of experience and connectivity within the 12-volt electronics industry. She also brings with her an intense passion and drive to help improve the ways in which the Association communicates, trains and collaborates with its partners and members.
Swezey began her career in the mobile electronics industry as an Account Executive with D.A.S. Distributors in Palmyra, Pa., managing the New England and upstate New York territories. She also served as an Account Executive with A-Z Autosound a distribution house located in CT. In 2016, Swezey joined the firm of Trent Partners and Associates as a manufacturer’s rep covering the New England and upstate New York territories.
Now in her sixth year working closely with 12-volt partners, Swezey also has a strong sales and marketing background dating back to 2002. She will be immediately taking over some aspects of planning and organizing the Association’s events.
“Since starting in the mobile electronics industry in 2013, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the smartest and proactive retailers and installers in the country,” said Swezey. “I look forward to continuing that work on a larger scale, helping to educate and empower our membership with new benefits and learning opportunities.”
Swezey will be at the upcoming KnowledgeFest event in Dallas, Aug. 9-11. Please join us in Dallas to welcome Lynn to the team. Welcome Lynn Swezey to our industry’s association at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
- August 9-11, 2019 - Dallas, TX
- February 7-9, 2020 - Long Beach, CA
- March 27-29, 2020 - Indianapolis, IN
- May 15-17, 2020 - Orlando, FL
Come Together
One industry, association and purpose.
A little over ten years ago—November 4, 2009 to be exact—I stood on a stage at the SEMA Show with a few other industry leaders to announce the purchase of MERA (now MEA) and that we would be re-launching a new KnowledgeFest on October 10, 2010 (10-10-10) in Dallas, Texas. At that launch, we played a fitting tune: The Beatles’ “Come Together.” Why that song, you ask? It was the prelude for our mission to unite a very fractured industry. It came from a strong desire to create an association that brought a group of talented albeit underrepresented individuals together for a common purpose, to improve upon each other and the industry in the process. To create an association with benefits that either saved or made our members money. One that focused on great education opportunities and provided highly relevant information, thus empowering our industry to thrive.
Bringing Benefits to Specialty Retailers
Back in 2008, the association had dwindled to less than 100 members and was no longer able to support the trade event that had been held every year since 1993. Knowing this, we set out to relaunch the associations premiere trade event, KnowledgeFest. Looking back, it was a great accomplishment and a good first step to creating something that provided a learning environment for the benefit of the entire industry. However, an event was not the only thing to revive. Next, we set out to review the offered benefits from the association and decide how best to move forward with value for our members.
Our goal was to create an association that provided benefits to assist specialty retailers with technology and services. These benefits should either save retailers money, help them make money, or both. We added the industry’s best-known point-of-sale and scheduling software, Total Sales and Scheduling (TSS), to our arsenal. Then we added a long-time standard for vehicle fitment and wiring information, the Mobile Automotive Information Database (MAID). Both were transferred from our parent company, InstallerNet. These two technology offerings provide high value to our members. To date, most of our members use them. Soon after, we added websites and in-store signage solutions to round out these offerings. However, this was only the beginning.
Nurturing Continued Growth Year Over Year
Next, we sought out partners to provide great member benefits that met or exceeded our standards. One of those partners is the Member Savings Program. Our partnership provided benefits that save members thousands of dollars per year through the buying power of a group purchasing alliance made up of over 150 associations.
In an effort to present our members to consumers, we created a consumer-focused website that provides members with a listing including their location, hours of operation, company slogan and links to website and social media sites. Check it out at www.MEAPreferred.com. Take some time to review the benefits, and you’ll find discount shipping programs, savings on payroll processing, free registration to KnowledgeFest events, professional business coaching and Mobile Electronics magazine. These are just some examples of the many cost-saving and money-making benefits of being an MEA member.
Today, MEA is over 1,000 members strong. Your mobile electronics (trade) association consists of manufacturers, retailers and service providers of automotive aftermarket technology products. Through our coast-to-coast offering of KnowledgeFest trade shows and conferences, we can provide top-notch education, networking opportunities and business services designed to advance professionalism and profitability for all of the industry's stakeholders.
Providing Top-Tier Education
Our publication, Mobile Electronics magazine, is the industry’s #1 resource with more than 18,000 digital subscribers. The monthly publication acknowledges top retailers, installers and suppliers through the annual Mobile Electronics Industry Awards.
Finally, KnowledgeFest provides a three-day event with emphasis on experience, learning and connecting with others in the mobile electronics industry. These events provide you with the best opportunity to learn from other successful industry professionals at either Long Beach, Calif., Indianapolis, Ind., Orlando, Fla. and or Dallas, Texas. Finishing out 2020 we will celebrate with our first-ever virtual KnowledgeFest.
When it comes to the Mobile Electronics industry, many of us who’ve been around a few years will tell you that when it comes to organizations looking to represent this unique group of people, there have been a few that properly represent all stakeholders. Know that the Mobile Electronics Association will always be here to lead the industry though both the good times and the not-so-good times. I look forward to hearing from you on how we can service you better. Please feel free to contact me or any of our team to learn how you can reap the benefits.
Read the latest issue of Mobile Electronics magazine [Click Here]
4-9-2017 -- MEA (Mobile Electronics Association) has partnered with HR Consulting firm, The SAMMAX GROUP to bring retailers the perfect tool to help them when hiring new employees.
By utilizing employment assessments to test past Mobile Electronics Industry Award winners and other top performers in our industry, SAMMAX has created a baseline for store managers, installers and salespeople that measures traits such as organization, flexibility, imagination, assertiveness, recognition and competitiveness, just to name a few. These traits often define a person’s behavior towards doing a job and are considered important in determining success in any organization, according to SAMMAX. The tool can also be used to evaluate current employees and indentify areas of opportunty to gain greater productivity. "When making a hiring decision, it is of great importance to find the right person. This new tool will provide the information needed to make the right decision the first time." said Chris Cook, president of Mobile Electronics.
Sergio De Oliveira of SAMMAX will present a seminar on Monday, 4/10/2017, discussing the assessments in the context of how they can impact car audio retail managers, installers and sales staff. The details are as follows:
THE HIRING PROCESS: NEW TOOLS TO MAKE BETTER HIRING DECISIONS
Instructor(s): Sergio De Oliveira - SAMMAX Group
John Schwartz - Perfectionist
Track: Owner - Manager
Start Time: 9:30 am
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Location: room 105-106
Description: Learn how to use a new human resources tool to help you make the right hiring decision while avoiding the trap of "gut feelings" and the applicant's "spinning" of abilities. In this session, you will learn how to use a complete employment testing system featuring stand-alone personality tests, honesty tests, and aptitude tests. It even has an assessment for team building! The Hiring Suite® is the online system that that will make the difference between a good and bad new hire. Learn how MEA and SAMMAX GROUP created benchmark profiles specifically for the Mobile Electronics industry that you can use to make better hiring decisions and to evaluate your current team to gain greater productivity.
For the complete schedule, visit KFest.me.
Encouraging More Women to Get Involved in the Mobile Electronics Industry
North Andover, MA – July 26, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) announced today a new partnership with Tech Up for Women to provide networking opportunities and engage more women in the mobile electronics industry. MEA will host an inaugural meeting of Women of Mobile Electronics during KnowledgeFest™, August 9-11 in Dallas, Texas. Dawn Pratt, founder of Tech Up For Women, will moderate a panel discussion during the meeting on Saturday, August 10. KnowledgeFest, the flagship event for MEA and the mobile electronics industry, brings together retailers and manufacturers for education, training, networking and the opportunity to see new products and technology.
“In our industry, women often work behind the scenes contributing to the success of their company,” said Chris Cook, president, MEA. “We wanted to provide an opportunity for them to network with other women that come to KnowledgeFest and to increase the visibility of women working in our industry. In a male dominated field, it’s easy for men to find others that share their interests. It’s a little harder for women to forge those connections in our industry. Our goal is that by providing a forum for women to gather at our event it will encourage other women to attend KnowledgeFest and get more involved with the association. And, long term, increase the opportunities for and the number of women working in our industry.”
“We are excited to offer our network the opportunity to attend MEA KnowledgeFest and the first MEA women’s event to discuss new trends, technologies and opportunities” said Dawn Pratt, founder of Tech Up For Women. Tech Up For Women is a resource platform and event for all women, in all industries, to advance through greater technology knowledge, www.techupforwomen.com.
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
-
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 Tech Up For Women
Tech Up For Women is an event & engagement platform designed to enable in all job functions to “Tech Up” to advance their careers. Forbes named Tech Up one of the “Top Five Most Inspiring Conferences of 2018”. The 3rd Annual Tech Up For Women will take place on November 19, 2019 at the Javits Convention Center, NYC, www.techupforwomen.com. For more information reach out to us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us 203-255-2112.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
North Andover, MA – October 16, 2019 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is pleased to announce a new partnership with WINNING, Inc./Sandler Training to provide sales training and other services to MEA members. Through this partnership, Kevin Hallinan, principal, will offer customized sales training programs to retailers and manufacturers at a reduced cost for MEA members and partners.
“We’re excited to offer this new benefit to our members,” said Chris Cook, president of MEA. “Sales training is an essential tool that increases our industry’s professionalism and a business’s profitability. It supports MEA’s goal to empower, educate and inform our members and achieves our mission to deliver exceptional customer experiences.”
Hallinan has over 30 years of sales, training, and management success. An engaging and dynamic trainer and mentor, and an award-winning sales producer, Kevin has provided training and coaching to hundreds of companies in numerous industries. His experiences range from small private companies, to family run businesses, to the corporate setting where he has successfully sold both products and services. He is a former business owner, industry leader and constant overachiever, having earned numerous sales awards including Producer of the Year and Top Account Executive, and holds two yet unbroken company records for Highest Weekly Sales and Highest Quarterly Sales.
For more infomation, go to www.Mobile-Electronics.com
About the Mobile Electronics Association
Mobile Electronics Association (MEA) is a trade association comprised of installing dealers and product vendors dedicated to serving the needs of the mobile electronics specialist industry. MEA owns and produces KnowledgeFest, regional trade-only industry events that combine educational programming and vendor training with a trade show floor. MEA owns and publishes the monthly Mobile Electronics® magazine, which is the industry’s #1 resource, as well as other digital media, including websites and the industry’s e-newsletter Hotwire. MEA provides software and data-driven services to vendors and retailers. Learn more at mobile-electronics.com.
Media Contact:
Jenni Moyer
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
703-598-8296
MEA Projecting Strong Attendance at KnowledgeFest™
Registrations trending above last three-year average
North Andover, MA – August 6, 2021 – The Mobile Electronics Association (MEA), owner and producer of KnowledgeFest events, stated that with 20 days to go, the Dallas event registrations have reached levels comparable with attendance over the last three years events as the industry comes together in Dallas. The Omni (host hotel for the event) has reported that its room block is now sold-out, and producers are looking into additional hotel accommodations for attendees.
Despite the post-pandemic inventory shortage and labor challenges, more than 50 brands will be represented from manufacturers that are exhibiting to show their support to dealers and providing product information and training.
The show producers continue to work with the City of Dallas, Convention Center, and Host Hotel to assure a successful and safe event. Mask’s will not be required but recommended in public places if not vaccinated.
The Dallas event will include more than 100 hours of dealer education workshops and vendor sponsored training devoted exclusively to the mobile specialist, the installing dealer.
For more information and to register for KnowledgeFest, visit KnowledgeFest.org
Upcoming KnowledgeFest events:
2021
August 27-29, 2021 - Dallas, TX
October 8-10, 2021 - Indianapolis, IN
2022
February 18-20, 2022 – Las Vegas, NV
April 1-3, 2022 – Indianapolis, IN
June 10-12, 2022 – Orlando, FL
August 26-28, 2022 – 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:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
978-645-6434
Holly Hill, FL - July 2017 – Metra Electronics will be teaching two vendor training courses at KnowledgeFest in Dallas, TX from August 11-14, 2017. This industry event is hosted by the Mobile Electronics Association at the Dallas Convention Center and features a full schedule of educational training for 12 volt installers. Metra’s Installer Institute, an accredited school for Mobile Electronics, will also be at the show giving information about their school’s programs and continuing education courses. Both the Installer Institute and Metra Electronics will be at booth #316.
“AX-DSP - Upgrade your digitally amplified system without the hassle” will be taught by Jason Anderson on August 12 from 4:45pm to 5:45pm. How do you effectively install aftermarket amps and speakers in vehicles with digital amplifiers? The new AX-DSP from Axxess Interfaces is the solution to this problem that installers have been dealing with for years. The AX-DSP takes the digital signal from OE radios and converts it to a multi-channel analog output, allowing an installer to easily add aftermarket amps while retaining the use of the OE radio controls. Installers no longer have to buy summing devices, processors, or DSP’s, and then spend hours wiring up and troubleshooting. Installers should attend this training seminar at the 2017 summer Knowledgefest event to find out how the AX-DSP can save time, money and headaches in the installation bay. Attendees can reserve their seat for this class online at: http://knowledgefest.org/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=113&Itemid=332.
The second class, “Metra/Axxess 101: Back to the Basics”, will be taught by Juan Lugo on Sunday, August 13 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will cover basic install techniques and topics such as wiring up combo amplified /non-amplified harnesses, initialization of various interfaces, audio adjustments to interfaces, and the use and operation of the new Axxess App and PC updater program. The class will also discuss the new AX-DSP, TurboTouch Kits and various other new products from Metra Electronics. KnowledgeFest attendees can reserve their seat for this training session at: http://knowledgefest.org/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=172&Itemid=332.
Please visit the following websites for more information:
KnowledgeFest event information, schedule and registration: KnowledgeFest.org
Installer Institute’s programs and courses for mobile electronics: InstallerInstitute.com
The new Axxess Digital Signal Processor (AX-DSP) from Metra Electronics: AxxessDSP.com
The Magazine
Magazine Quick Links
Other News
- Install Bay to Show New Professional Installation Products at SEMA in Product News
- Axxess Debuts Radio Replacement Interfaces with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology at SEMA in Product News
- VOXX Unveils 30 New VIPER and AVITAL Systems at SEMA in Product News
- New Amplifier Integration Interfaces to Launch at SEMA in Product News
- RYDEEN Introduces the PV8-B 8.2″ Mirror Digital AHD Monitor in Product News
