SEMA Show 2020 Cancellation Overview

It wasn’t a huge shock when an urgent email from the SEMA organization began pinging thousands of vendors, media and car builders stating that the SEMA Show 2020 is officially cancelled. In all honesty, as compared to the rest of 2020, we were all but waiting for the other shoe to drop. With so many other events being pushed to next year, including the annual SoCal Eibach Meet, various track events, and other car shows, we were surprised to see it play out this long.

Up until today, the staff at SEMA has been hustling non-stop to try and keep the ball rolling for a show that, quite honestly, doesn’t play nice with easily transmitted viruses. Walking shoulder-to-shoulder through convention center halls with tens of thousands of others in America’s current state just didn’t seem feasible, especially when you consider the large number of attendees that well into their 50s and 60s. Moreover, the need for just about all of the Las Vegas Convention Center’s staff, from janitorial to food services and security, made the likelihood of successful gathering a tall order.

Understanding SEMA’s Role

There are a few things you should know about the annual SEMA event. The first is that it’s not a traditional car show. Regardless of what your social media feeds try to convey, the cars on display often mocked by our community for not being 100-percent complete or rushed, frequently serve as demo vehicles. These vehicles represent a significant part of what makes the event successful. The brands that bankroll these builds use them not only to showcase their parts and services but also to help progress the aftermarket.

Whether domestic or import, performance or aesthetic, behind the glamour and glitz, business is conducted in every booth, which significantly contributes to keeping the aftermarket industry alive. It’s essential to remember that many of the brands showcased also produce parts for vehicles that enthusiasts cherish. Consequently, a healthy connection between these elements ensures businesses survive and thrive.

The Media’s Role at SEMA

From a media perspective, all magazines, websites, blogs and other outlets that make their way to Vegas each year are certainly attending for their own benefits. However, we also contribute to spreading the word about new products, brands, and technology, aiding this exciting industry in staying relevant and innovative.

A Taste of SEMA Last Year

The event often encounters criticism on social media, highlighting the large number of A90 Supras and FK8 Civic Type Rs present. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that the excitement surrounding the production of products for these types of vehicles matters greatly. Without these standouts, interest in the aftermarket could dwindle.

While we are not shocked to see SEMA cancelled for 2020, we are certainly disappointed. We always look forward to spending a hard-fought week in Las Vegas, collecting content and information. This has been an ongoing tradition for what seems like forever (over 15 years for many). We will miss the emotions associated with deadlines, information overload, and the camaraderie among peers committed to advancing the aftermarket.

Looking Ahead

We anticipate seeing everyone at the next SEMA Show in 2021. Hats off to the teams for their dedication during these challenging times.