The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) says that manufacturers of automotive accessories are showing no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by the 1,643 exhibitors that have already signed up to participate in the 2008 SEMA Show this November.

The SEMA show takes place Tuesday-Friday, Nov. 4-7 in Las Vegas. The trade-only event targets the $36.7 billion automotive specialty-equipment market, which includes products that enhance the styling and functionality of cars, trucks and SUVs.

“It’s early in the process, but it appears that the SEMA Show will be another sellout year,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA VP of events and communications. “It’s exciting to see such involvement and interest from the industry, especially in today’s challenging economic times. Recognizing the importance that the industry places on the SEMA Show, we’re working hard to provide showgoers with high-value opportunities throughout the week.”

For 42 years, the SEMA Show has served as a trading post for the annual unveiling of new products and technology where manufacturers and buyers come together. Last year, the event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors and attracted more than 130,000 industry professionals from all over the world.

According to MacGillivray, the SEMA show is the single best place to learn what’s happening in the industry. “The show features thousands of new products and manufacturers,” he said. “But what’s more is that the seminars and activities make it possible for showgoers to mix and mingle with key industry players, and learn new business skills and strategies.”

Among the 2008 SEMA Show features that give showgoers added value are:

• Pre-show strategies for exhibitors: Exhibitors are invited to participate in free online webinars prior to the SEMA Show, where they will learn about specific programs and strategies for success at the SEMA Show.

• Pre-show planners: Buyers and exhibitors are able to utilize an online show planner to pre-plan and pre-identify events and activities of specific interest.

• Media connections: Exhibitors can provide press kits and media materials in the SEMA Show Media Center, a location where more than 3,000 media representatives visit during the week.

• New product promotion: New products can be included in a special showcase, as well as photographed and promoted to thousands of media throughout the year.

• Business seminars: Nearly 50 educational seminars take place during the week, all available to showgoers free of charge.

• Project vehicle connections: Exhibitors are able to gain added exposure by featuring their project vehicles at the Show; exhibitors may also offer their products to other project vehicle builders through SEMA’s Products for Project Vehicle Builders Program.

Manufacturers interested in exhibiting at the 2008 SEMA Show should contact Show Management at 702/450-7662, ext. 120, or go online at www.SEMAshow.com/buyabooth.

Industry professionals may register to attend online at www.semashow.com.