As the automotive industry emerges from the economic downturn, it’s clear that the iconic American industry needs to spread its global wings to thrive again—and to help drive the U.S. economic recovery overall.

Ben Mizban is the president of T-Rex Grilles in Corona, California. The company has regularly participated in the SEMA Show New Products Showcase. Recently, Mizban offered his insight and advice on getting the most from the program

Retail stores should be well-organized and use clear, easily understood signage so that shoppers can find the products they are looking for while also being led to special offers and promotional items.

SEMA News recently had the chance to catch up with long-time automotive restyler Jon Titman of Automotive Essentials, a ProPledge participant. Titman, the company’s vice president of sales and marketing, provided some insights into the services Automotive Essentials offers and how the business has benefitted since the inception of the ProPledge program three years ago.

Companies that wish to extend their reach beyond U.S. borders can branch into emerging automotive markets that offer huge potential for increased sales. The keys to successful international ventures are careful research and reasonable expectations.

In traditional hobbyist terms, automotive restoration refers strictly to classic cars rebuilt using classic car parts. And while there remains a significant portion of the market for which that holds true, today’s restorations are just as likely to include an amalgam of modern running gear as well as comfort and safety systems combined with factory-spec knobs, moldings, panels and fabrics.

In 2009, 14,573 buyers went to the SEMA Show in Las Vegas specifically to identify the newest trends and products available in the automotive restoration market. In pursuit of new and original equipment replacement parts, buyers had the opportunity to meet face-to-face with 65 exhibitors in the Restoration Marketplace section of the Show, who registered 68 products in the New Products Showcase.

The Restoration Marketplace section of the SEMA Show floor is dedicated to the new and original replacement parts that retailers need to satisfy their customer’s cravings. It’s home to the products and services that help cherry-out four-wheeled, family heirlooms and upgrade vintage tin to 21st century technology.

The SEMA Show is the once-a-year epicenter for automotive accessories. It’s more than 1,500 exhibitors offering their best products and services to more than 100,000 attendees. The must-see attraction for many is the custom, one-of-a kind vehicles on display throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The concepts aren’t totally new to the automotive world: Get a group of designers together, brainstorm a vehicle concept, noodle out the financing, then sell every unit the market will bear.