LAS VEGAS (Dec. 8, 2000)—The International Tire Expo, Specialty Equipment Market Association shows saw an increased number of booths, buyers and media attendance in 2000.
The shows exceeded more than 6,200 booths encompassing 1.5 million square feet of exhibit space, up 10 percent from last year. Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week in total boasted close to 82,000 people who attended the show, including more than 36,000 buyers and nearly 8,000 international buyers.
Eleven car manufacturers exhibited at this year´s show, up from six in 1999. A record number of nearly 500 national and international media outlets covered the event.
"From major manufacturers to specialty boutique shops, the SEMA show has shown it is the place to witness firsthand future automotive customization trends," said Charles Blum, SEMA president. "With the increased presence of OEMs and the introduction of more vehicles and specialty automotive products each year, members have come to view the show as the ultimate proving ground."
SEMA represents the $23.2 billion specialty automotive industry.