Autobahn and Huper Optik have plenty to showcase at this year’s International Window Film Conference & Tint-Off (WFCT) in Virginia Beach, Va. From Autobahn’s Competitor Lounge to Huper Optik’s Sit N’ Sip Coffee Bar, the brands’ teams are going all out. At the forefront is CEO David Kratz, who says the initiatives are a byproduct of a meaningful mission.
Smiling More, Stressing Less
“Relentlessly finding ways to put smiles on people’s faces,” Kratz says of his brands’ goals. “We live in a lonely, stressful, and somewhat sad world nowadays. If watching a drone show at the Beach Party, getting a massage at the Competitor Lounge, or enjoying a cup of tint-inspired coffee makes at least one person smile and feel special, seen, and important, the objective has been reached–loving people.”
A look at Autobahn’s booth at this year’s WFCT.
On day one of WFCT 2023, Kratz answered attendees’ questions during a seminar dubbed “Ask Your Suppliers Anything.” The roundtable offered event goers the chance to ask film suppliers about anything including the present and future state of the market.
Sponsoring The Keynote
Autobahn sponsored WFCT 2023’s Keynote, which saw Shaun White address a packed room of attendees on day one of the show.
“We love our dealers and the hope is that they feel that via the areas we are able to sponsor,” says Kratz, whose company also sponsored WFCT 2022’s Keynote. “Supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and people, while empowering team members and giving people hope in a sustainable way, is what I care about.”
The drive to WFCT 2023 wasn’t far for Micah Barnes, Owner of SunBlocked Window Tinting in Portsmouth, Va. Barnes operates his company with his wife, Vice President, and Installer Spencer Carl.
“It’s good to see what’s new,” says Barnes, who founded his business in 2006. “The industry is ever-changing.”
Barnes, an Autobahn and Huper Optik dealer, says his suppliers are in Virginia Beach for more than additional revenue.
“They’re not just here to sell film,” Barnes says. “They’re here to build relationships and bring people together.”
Connecting With Dealers
Many Autobahn and Huper Optik dealers traveled far and wide to experience all that WFCT 2023 has to offer.
Jeremy Davis, Owner/Operator of Pro Tint LLC in Palm Coast, Fla., is representing Autobahn in this year’s Automotive Tint-Off Competition.
“I have confidence,” shares Davis. “I go to work everyday, and it takes a lot of [effort]. I don’t have a team; it’s just me. Coming to these events and competing–I’m just competing against myself.”
Matt Tuh, Owner of Prestige Tint and PPF in Wilmington, Ill., says WFCT is a worthwhile getaway.
“I own a nice little shop,” Tuh says. “I work there day and night. At the end of the day, I just want to make my customers happy.”
Editor’s Note: Stay tuned for further coverage of WFCT 2023 as the event rolls on. And please reach out to me at ccollier@autobahnwindowfilms.com if you’d like to connect for coverage. – Chris Collier, Director of Communications.
(Photos courtesy of Josh Welch, Photography and Video Production Specialist at Autobahn, Huper Optik, and Edge)