The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) has named Automotive Racing Products (ARP) as its 2023 Business of the Year, the company announced.
The award was presented at the HRIA reception held in conjunction with the SEMA Show last week in Las Vegas.
ARP was recognized not only for manufacturing the fasteners employed by many car builders and race teams, but for its contributions to hot rodding, according to officials. The company sponsors several industry awards including the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster and Slonaker trophies at the Grand National Roadster Show, three major awards at the Triple Crown of Rodding, and the new America’s Most Beautiful Truck hardware at the inaugural Grand National Truck Show.
Founded by Gary Holzapfel in 1968, the company has grown to encompass a multitude of facilities in Santa Paula and Ventura, California, and employs more than 300 people. Holzapfel’s son, Michael, now serves as ARP’s president, and grandson Ryan Holzapfel is climbing his way through the ranks, the company said.
Ryan Holzapfel and Bob Florine, ARP executive VP, accepted the award from HRIA Chairman Tim McCarthy and Chairman-Elect Jeff Grantmeyer.
