FREE WHEELS, and How to get them!
By: Cory Sharick
(4 Wheels, 4 Letters, _ _ _ _!)
Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite four letter word FREE. If
you’ve been hanging around the custom truck scene for more than five minutes,
you’ve probably daydreamed about getting a wheel sponsorship. You build a
killer truck, you send an email, and boom a magical delivery truck drops off a
set of shiny new KG1 Forged wheels, right?
Well, not exactly.
We love sponsoring builds,but we want to pull the curtain back
and have a real conversation about what "free" actually means in this
industry. Our goal isn't to discourage you from applying we want to partner
with awesome people! Lets dive in so you know exactly what it takes to land a
partnership, both from a brand’s perspective and as a truck owner.
("Free" Means well…“a Contract”)
Let’s get the hardest truth out of the way first. A
sponsorship isn't a gift, it’s a business partnership.
Some of our wheel setups can retail for over $15,000. When we
send out a set of wheels, we are making a massive investment in you.
In return, a contract is signed. We expect professional photos, high-quality
videos, and serious branding on the vehicle.
Oh, and while the wheels might be covered, however the
sponsored individual is responsible for the freight shipping
costs. Consider it your entry fee to the team!
(“Decal” “Rock Light” “Tint” Myth)
We get a lot of emails that basically say: "Hey,
if you give me free wheels, I'll put your decal on my back window!" “Hey
I have rock lights” (writer is not bashing, I don't have rock lights or
anything on my whip so trust me your steps ahead of me) As enthusiasts and as a
company we love the enthusiasm, but respectfully, a sticker on the glass
doesn’t quite cover a $15,000 invoice. We are looking for mutual support and a
real return on investment.
(The Grind)
Being sponsored means you are an ambassador for KG1 Forged. We
expect our partners to put in the miles. This means traveling across the
country to major shows and events sometimes on very short notice.
We know the kind of sweat, time, money, and resources it takes
to get a truck to that elite level. We see the grind of hauling a rig across
the country on the show circuit, and we expect our sponsored builds to be front
and center at those events, representing the brand with pride.
(Does My Truck Have to Be a $250,000 SEMA Build?)
Yes and no. The amount of money poured into some of these
modern builds is astronomical, easily topping $250,000+. Let’s be
clear, It is not just about the money. Its more about the
time, effort, and attention to detail. We absolutely accept and sponsor
older vehicles, unique projects, and everything in between. We aren't just
looking at the price tag of your suspension, we are looking at the quality of
the work, the uniqueness of the vision, and the dedication of the owner.
(The KG1 Checklist)
Want to shoot your shot? We want to hear from you! But please,
come prepared. When you email us, here is exactly what we need to see to take
your proposal seriously:
·
The Basics: Year, Make, and Model of
the vehicle.
·
The Blueprint: Full build specs
(what’s done, what’s happening next).
·
The Visuals: High-quality current
pictures and professional future renderings.
·
The Network: A list of other brands
you are currently working with (or pitching).
·
The Itinerary: A solid list of shows
and events you are committed to attending this year.
·
The Megaphone: Links to your social
media accounts.
·
The Crew: Information on the shops
or businesses helping you build it.
·
The Pitch: Most importantly, tell us
exactly how you can help us, and how we can help you.
(Please! Don't Take It Personally!)
Here is the tough part. We have to say "no" a lot.
As enthusiasts too. We drool over the same trucks you do, and
honestly, it hurts when we have to deny great people with absolutely killer
vehicles. But the truth is, we have a strict budget, incredibly high
expectations, and a reputation to uphold.
If you get a "no," please don't be mad or hurt. It’s
business, not personal. It also doesnt mean we won't call you in 2 months after
the no. It happens a good bit!
Sometimes it's as simple as we just need a specific vehicle at
that time, for a specific wheel release or upcoming event.
(The Cheat Code) Writers note, Don't tell my bosses
I told you!
Want to increase your chances of getting a "yes"
down the road?
Show up to the events. Show the support of KG1 and other
brands without any expectations of getting free stuff. Be a
positive force in the community. Actions speak way louder than words, and trust
us, companies take notice of the people who are consistently out there putting
in the work. It helps immensely when the industry already knows who you are
before you even send that email.
So, know what you're asking for, be real, be understanding,
and whatever you do, don't stop trying!