One big annual auto event I try to almost make every year is is SEMA. This is an acronym for the Specialty Equipment Market Association. It's a trade association that consists of several thousand automotive-related companies (domestic and international). From auto-related government issues, to the latest industry news, SEMA is involved with all aspects of the automotive world.

The SEMA Logo

SEMA holds it's annual convention every year in Las Vegas. This event, combined with the AAPEX (Automotive Aftermarket Products Show), makes for the largest convention of the year for Sin City. It's a great place to catch up with friends "in the business". Rather it be the guys from H&R Springs, or an old shop-owning friend in SLO, it's gearheads untie event.

This year showed the evident hurt this recession has put on the automotive industry. It's tough seeing some of these companies struggle. It was evident the exhibitor count was down. This huge event typically takes over every inch of the Las Vegas Convention Center, not this year. Most wings had areas blocked off with make-shift walls. One sliver lining was the fact that attendance was also down, so navigating the halls was easy. .

H&R springs' 2010 modded Mustang

Overall I think the show is still the destination for annual encounters with top existing, and new vendors. It's a great place to see the latest automotive innovations. The aftermarket industry while struggling now, is still a multi-billion dollar annual grossing market. This industry will rebound, not to what it was, but still will bounce back to a better position.

Thanks to SEMA and all they do for the industry. Those of us close, or in the auto industry appreciate all you do. Rather it be emissions laws at capital hill, or giving us an annual event to catch up, you make a difference in the auto world.