Specialty Equipment Market AssociationTranslation site

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is the leading trade association for the automotive aftermarket industry, headquartered in Diamond Bar, California, USA. Founded in 1963 by automotive pioneers including Paul Schiefer, Roy Richter, Ed Iskenderian, Vic Edelbrock Jr., and Dean Moon, the organization has grown into a global powerhouse representing the interests of automotive specialty equipment manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and enthusiasts.

History & Evolution

Originally established as the Speed Equipment Manufacturing Association, the organization changed its name to Specialty Equipment Market Association in 1970 to improve its public image and avoid negative associations with the word “speed” among government regulators during a period of increasing automotive legislation.

Founding Companies & Leaders:

Ed Iskenderian served as the association’s first president.

Membership & Industry Impact

SEMA has experienced tremendous growth since its founding:

• Current Membership: Over 7,000 member companies worldwide, with some sources citing figures between 6,383–7,000+ companies
• Economic Impact: The industry represented by SEMA contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the United States
• Employment: Supports approximately 1.3 million jobs across the country
• Association Staff: Employs around 190 professionals at its Diamond Bar headquarters

Member Categories Include:

• Aftermarket parts manufacturers
• Original equipment manufacturers (OEM)
• Specialty equipment distributors
• Retailers and jobbers
• Media outlets
• Car dealers and installers
• Restoration specialists
• Race teams and car clubs

The SEMA Show – Premier Industry Event

The SEMA Show is the association’s flagship event and one of the largest trade shows in Las Vegas:

• Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Nevada
• Timing: Annually during the first week of November (2026 Show: November 3–6)
• Access: Trade-only event – not open to the general public; registration required as media, manufacturer, buyer, or exhibitor
• Scale: Features over 2,300 exhibitors, 11,000+ booths, and attracts more than 150,000 attendees including 60,000+ buyers
• New Products: Showcases nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools, and components in its New Products Showcase

Historical Milestone: The inaugural 1967 show was held in the basement of Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles with just 98 manufacturers and 3,000 attendees. The event moved to Las Vegas in 1977 to accommodate growth.

Notable Moment: In 2020, SEMA cancelled the show for the first time in its history due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mission & Core Services

1. Advocacy & Government Affairs

SEMA maintains a dedicated staff in Washington, D.C. that monitors and shapes legislation affecting the automotive aftermarket. The association ensures policymakers hear a “clear, strong, unified voice” representing member interests on issues like vehicle modifications, emissions regulations, and mobility policy.

In a significant development in June 2025, SEMA became a full member of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the global governing body for motor sport. This partnership focuses on advancing safety and mobility policy, particularly regarding Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles.

2. Industry Councils & Networks

SEMA organizes members into specialized communities for targeted networking and education:

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) – preserving restoration industry
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) – monitoring vehicle technology trends
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) – developing next-generation talent
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance
• Motorsports Products & Media Council
• Professional Restylers Organization
• SEMA Businesswomen’s Network
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council

3. Business Resources & Discounts

Members enjoy substantial cost savings through SEMA’s partnership programs:

• 40% discount off MSRP on select services
• 25%+ savings on health insurance
• 15% discounts on various business services
• Free site setup (up to $500 value) for web services
• Preferred payment processing and shipping logistics solutions

4. Education & Professional Development

SEMA provides extensive learning opportunities including:

• Live and on-demand virtual education offerings
• Career Center job board for industry employment
• HR Portal with hiring resources
• Technical training programs (e.g., ADAS training at SEMA Garage in Southern California)

Industry Scope

The SEMA-represented industry generates approximately $27.8 billion annually in products and services. Key market segments include:

• Performance & Racing Components – engine parts, turbochargers, exhaust systems
• Wheels & Tires – custom wheels, performance tires, suspension systems
• Mobile Electronics – audio, navigation, connectivity solutions
• Restoration Parts – classic car components and accessories
• Truck & Off-Road Equipment – lift kits, off-road lighting, bed accessories
• Street Rods & Customs – hot rod parts and customization accessories
• Safety Products – lighting, braking systems, protective equipment

The industry serves diverse vehicle categories: muscle cars, classics, luxury vehicles, sport compacts, street rods, light trucks (off-road and sport trucks), SUVs, and recreational vehicles.

Contact Information

• Headquarters: 1575 S. Valley Vista Drive, Diamond Bar, CA
• Phone: (909) 610-2030
• Membership Inquiries: Contact the Membership Team at 909-610-2030

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) stands as the definitive voice of the automotive aftermarket industry. Through its legendary SEMA Show, comprehensive advocacy efforts, specialized councils, and extensive member benefits, SEMA continues to drive innovation, protect industry interests, and foster the global car culture that has defined automotive enthusiasm for over six decades.