Nov. 13, 2013—On Wednesday, organizers of the SEMA Show reported record-breaking attendance numbers for this year’s show, which took place Nov. 5–8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Although final daily attendance numbers have not gone through an official audit, organizers said they issued more than 126,000 credentials prior to the event, a 7 percent increase over 2012. There were thousands more issued onsite each day.
“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”
The 2,381 exhibiting companies represented a wide range of the industry including everything from accessory and performance products to wheels and suspension. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors have the ability to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from all over the world at the SEMA Show.
“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.”
More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the showcase.
The SEMA Annual Market Report, available to SEMA members online, estimates there were $31.32B in industry retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28B during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, organizers expect to continue that upward trend.
