The 2025 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast

The 2025 SEMA Show will begin with its annual Kickoff Breakfast, a long-standing tradition that brings together the global automotive aftermarket community to celebrate innovation, leadership and connection, event organizers stated in a press release. The sold-out event takes place Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 7–8:45 a.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Ballroom, welcoming hundreds of exhibitors and attendees from around the world to officially launch SEMA Show week.

The morning will open with a Q&A hosted by SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola and Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. They will discuss a range of topics, including the new partnership between SEMA and FIA to advance mobility and safety policy in the U.S. and abroad, and how the collaboration strengthens both organizations’ roles in global and U.S. policy while giving members access to research, advocacy and new opportunities.

Fireside Chat With Jay Leno & Industry Leaders

The program continues with a fireside chat featuring comedian and car collector Jay Leno and Stellantis head of American brands, North America marketing and retail strategy, and RAM Brand CEO Tim Kuniskis. They will share insights on the evolving landscape of automotive design, ingenuity and car culture in a lively discussion, noted the release.

The breakfast will also feature Hoonigan Industries co-founder Brian Scotto presenting a sneak peek of the latest Gymkhana film and giving attendees an exclusive first look at the high-octane automotive action.

“The Kickoff Breakfast sets the tone for SEMA Show week,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “It’s where the industry comes together to celebrate innovation, collaboration and the people driving the automotive aftermarket forward. With this year’s lineup of distinguished guests, award presentations and exclusive first looks, it’s shaping up to be an inspiring start to the show.”

The SEMA Show New Product Awards

The Kickoff Breakfast will also include the presentation of the SEMA Show New Product Awards, recognizing innovative products that have made significant contributions to the automotive aftermarket. These awards honor companies shaping the future of automotive technology, design and services through creativity and engineering excellence. The Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year will also be recognized.

“The Kickoff Breakfast and our featured activations are designed to bring the industry together, celebrate ingenuity and showcase the trends shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. “Attendees can look forward to engaging conversations with industry leaders, exclusive first looks at cutting-edge products and experiences that showcase the creativity and passion of our community.”