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."
