SEMA 2023 has concluded and representatives from ESOTERIC were in attendance! We shared all things KAMIKAZE-Collection at the booth and took in the thousands of vendors and displays showcasing everything imaginable in the automotive aftermarket industry.

Joining with Kamikaze Collection for their first SEMA as a vendor allowed for a ‘Behind the Scenes Look’ into the event. A truly international collaboration saw Kamikaze representatives from Norway, Amsterdam, and Tokyo fly in to introduce the Kamikaze Collection to the SEMA attendees!

Not to be missed was the 60” HDTV looping ESOTERIC’s own Todd Cooperider demonstrating an array of Kamikaze Collection products we’ve been using in our studio for over 10 years:

What is SEMA?

The SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) convention is an annual trade show in Las Vegas, Nevada, focusing on the automotive aftermarket industry. Typically taking place in late October or early November, SEMA is one of the largest and most influential events in the automotive world. The convention serves as a platform for manufacturers, retailers, and automotive professionals to showcase and explore the latest trends, innovations, and products related to specialty and modified vehicles.

At SEMA, exhibitors display various products, ranging from performance parts and accessories to custom-built vehicles. The show attracts a diverse audience, including automotive enthusiasts, industry professionals, and media representatives. Attendees have the opportunity to discover cutting-edge technologies, network with industry experts, and gain insights into the future direction of the automotive aftermarket.

Why Attend SEMA?

One of the key highlights of SEMA is the abundance of customized and highly modified vehicles on display, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of builders and aftermarket specialists. The event also features educational seminars, workshops, and special events that cover various aspects of the automotive industry, including marketing strategies, regulatory issues, and emerging trends.

At ESOTERIC, we attend to connect with industry friends, learn about the latest car care and aftermarket trends, and share our latest products and methods. Take a look at some of the products announced for 2023!

SEMA provides a unique platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving automotive aftermarket. The convention has become a must-attend event for anyone involved or interested in customized and specialty vehicles.

SEMA 2023 Industry Awards

Top honors were awarded at the annual Industry Awards Banquet at SEMA, representing the $51.8 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Winners of the prestigious awards are:

SEMA Person of the Year: Ian Lehn, BOOSTane – Out of Cincinnati, Ohio!
Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Jon Delgado, Repairify
Content Creator of the Year: Vin Anatra, Hoonigan

The 2023 SEMA Person of the Year award went to Ian Lehn, founder of BOOSTane in Cincinnati, Ohio, in recognition of his volunteerism in the industry. Lehn has served in leadership positions for two different SEMA councils, works with the SEMA PAC and supports various charities. His company received the prestigious LaunchPad Product of the Year award in 2014.