Excited to go to SEMA this year? Ford and Honda don’t seem to be interested in going.
In a recent announcement, SEMA confirmed that a number of car makers–Chevrolet, Hummer, GMC, Toyota, Lexus and Nissan–have plans to return to the 2022 event with larger and more enriching exhibitor displays, yet Ford and Honda have apparently decided to skip the event:
Due to a change in corporate strategy, Ford and Honda will not be displaying at the 2022 SEMA Show. We appreciate their long-time support, and while many of us are going to miss their participation at this year’s Show, we are excited to see the Show take on a new look in Central Hall. SEMA will continue to collaborate with both Ford and Honda on various SEMA programs, such as Tech Transfer and Measuring Sessions in 2022 and beyond.
Will either be missed on the show floor, or just that just make more room to show off hardware from the other OEMs?
The 2022 SEMA Show is set to take place November 1-4 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. GRM plans to again have a booth, and visit sema.org for more information.
Ford disappearing will have a big visual effect on the main hall, they had a very prominent display right in the middle of the main traffic flow. Honda less so as they were tucked into a corner. But the SEMA show is a show put on by the aftermarket, so losing the OEs isn't really critical honestly. The OEs didn't bring anything too fundamental to it.
I think Ford has enough orders of F150 and Lightning PU
I wonder if this is a one time thing or a change in direction.....
I just realized that Ford basically owned the outdoor area. It was all screaming Mustangs and off-roading Broncos. That'll make a huge difference to the spectacle.
Might actually show a bit of sense. If you are selling everything you can produce at top dollar. And you are facing supply chain issues and rapid inflation. Tighten the belt and keep the stockholders happy.
Many are trying to figure out new marketing strategies in the new EV environment.
Ford's booth was one of the best there last year, IMO. The slammed Maverick was definitely in my top 3.
Keith Tanner said:Ford disappearing will have a big visual effect on the main hall, they had a very prominent display right in the middle of the main traffic flow. Honda less so as they were tucked into a corner. But the SEMA show is a show put on by the aftermarket, so losing the OEs isn't really critical honestly. The OEs didn't bring anything too fundamental to it.
When I first heard this, I was like "Isn't this a show put on by the aftermarket?" Always stinks to lose big manufacturers but life will go on.
Keith Tanner said:I just realized that Ford basically owned the outdoor area. It was all screaming Mustangs and off-roading Broncos. That'll make a huge difference to the spectacle.
"Ford out Front" was always an attraction and promoted the Ford brand nicely. I'll miss that. Always nice to get off the carpet and get some fresh air (filled with tire smoke) We'll see if the other big car manufacturers backfill.
DirtyBird222 said:Keith Tanner said:Ford disappearing will have a big visual effect on the main hall, they had a very prominent display right in the middle of the main traffic flow. Honda less so as they were tucked into a corner. But the SEMA show is a show put on by the aftermarket, so losing the OEs isn't really critical honestly. The OEs didn't bring anything too fundamental to it.
When I first heard this, I was like "Isn't this a show put on by the aftermarket?" Always stinks to lose big manufacturers but life will go on.
It's been pointed out to me that I was mistaken - Ford does indeed sell aftermarket parts from crate engines to performance parts to styling bits. So they did have some justification in being there.
What will be interesting is if they decide to come back next year. Every exhibitor I've spoken to has told me that your spot is based on your seniority, and if you give it up for one year you have to start all over. That's why the established brands like Koni and Edelbrock are near the center of everything and the little booths with one CNC brake caliper are all on the outside edges. Will SEMA give Ford their big spot in the main hall back again ? I'm sure yes, but they'll have to break their own rules :)
The show is supposed to be an industry trade show so that companies like Flyin' Miata and GRM can meet with existing and potential suppliers/advertisers and take part in industry discussions. Ford did have some input on some of that, they were panel members at some of the interesting talks.
Keith Tanner said:DirtyBird222 said:Keith Tanner said:Ford disappearing will have a big visual effect on the main hall, they had a very prominent display right in the middle of the main traffic flow. Honda less so as they were tucked into a corner. But the SEMA show is a show put on by the aftermarket, so losing the OEs isn't really critical honestly. The OEs didn't bring anything too fundamental to it.
When I first heard this, I was like "Isn't this a show put on by the aftermarket?" Always stinks to lose big manufacturers but life will go on.
It's been pointed out to me that I was mistaken - Ford does indeed sell aftermarket parts from crate engines to performance parts to styling bits. So they did have some justification in being there.
What will be interesting is if they decide to come back next year. Every exhibitor I've spoken to has told me that your spot is based on your seniority, and if you give it up for one year you have to start all over. That's why the established brands like Koni and Edelbrock are near the center of everything and the little booths with one CNC brake caliper are all on the outside edges. Will SEMA give Ford their big spot in the main hall back again ? I'm sure yes, but they'll have to break their own rules :)
The show is supposed to be an industry trade show so that companies like Flyin' Miata and GRM can meet with existing and potential suppliers/advertisers and take part in industry discussions. Ford did have some input on some of that, they were panel members at some of the interesting talks.
It's an interesting move, especially given Honda's resurgence into racing in recent years. Same with Ford.
In reply to Keith Tanner :
Yeah, for us, it's an opportunity to meet with everyone who supplies parts for our industry. At the end of the day, Ford Racing isn't much different than someone else who makes speed parts for Mustangs. Very surprised to hear Ford leaving as their presence has been massive.
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