Within the aftermarket, professional restylers occupy a unique position at the nexus of automotive dealers, consumers and specialty-equipment manufacturers. Although normally invisible to the end consumer, restylers are often influential in enticing new-vehicle buyers and moving metal off the car lot. They likewise move product for parts manufacturers and have a keen eye for popular trends in enhancing vehicle appearance, comfort and value.
“Our retailers really have evolved over the years,” explains Trim Illusion President Colby McLaughlin, who chairs the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) council. “Whether it’s trends or new technology, they’re always the ones that are on the front line right at the dealership level, hearing directly from the dealerships what consumers are wanting and making those changes to vehicles.”
Of course, evolution can take an unpredictable path,…
