North American International Auto Show Announces Initial 2011 Plans

1312

Detroit, MI – June 22, 2010 – The 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Chairman Barron Meade and Vice Chairman Bill Perkins provided updates recently about one of the world’s most prestigious automotive events–approximately seven months in advance.

Meade noted in a media briefing that the goal of the NAIAS 2011 was to build upon the steady resurgence of the automotive industry as seen by the results of the 2010 NAIAS in Detroit. Attendees on hand for the session also included Detroit Mayor Dave Bing as well as Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano. Highlights of the 2010 NAIAS included:

  • Nearly 40 vehicles unveiled during press preview before approximately 5,000 international journalists from more than 70 countries.
  • More than $2 million raised for local children’s charities at the annual black tie Charity Preview.
  • Nearly 715,000 attendees during NAIAS public days, up from 650,000 estimated attendees at the 2009 show.
  • NAIAS hosted a full roster of nationally recognized governmental leaders such as Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood.

For 2011, Meade and Perkins noted the show floor will be full this year with manufacturers and other industry exhibitors. Meade indicated more announcements will be made in the coming months related to new exhibitors, as well new show features, to keep the global NAIAS event an industry benchmark.

Also, the NAIAS chairmen indicated the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, which helped create multiple structural changes to the Cobo Center venue, will oversee additional enhancements for 2011. The Authority has noted to NAIAS that such improvements to take place will include:

  • Escalator upgrades.
  • Heating and cooling improvements.
  • Enhanced security management.
  • A brand-new catering company for all onsite food and beverage needs.
  • Aesthetic improvements to enhance customer experience.

Based on an overwhelmingly positive response from the 2010 NAIAS, Meade said the two-day press preview will be continued for 2011. Customer research, according to Meade, indicated international and local journalists, as well as global manufacturers, greatly appreciated the extra travel and preparation day that a Monday-Tuesday schedule provides.

“The NAIAS is about moving metal while being the facilitator, thought-starter and haven for opinion leaders throughout the industry and thus the world,” Meade said. “Our 2011 show is going to continue to build on the momentum we saw at the NAIAS last year. A full show floor, an enhanced venue, and an enthusiastic core of journalists, exhibitors and buying public are going to once again converge on the Motor City in January. We are prepared to host them with more surprises to be announced along the way.”