Organizers: Auto Show Cobo Deal Just A Start
DETROIT (WWJ) - Organizers of the North American International Auto Show say a new five year deal to keep the show at Detroit's Cobo Center is just the beginning.
"This was a way for us to make a commitment to help jump start, to help start things up," said 2012 show Chairman Bill Perkins. "I don't think there are many cities in North America that can say, during one of the worst months of the year, they hold an event that will generate $350 to $400 million in revenue."
Just days before the 2012 show's start, Detroit Auto Dealers Association Executive Director Rod Alberts, and Cobo Center General Manager Tom Connors signed papers guaranteeing the show will stay at Cobo until at least 2017.
However, show organizers say, with new improvements coming, they believe Cobo will remain the home of the North American International Auto Show for a long time.
Just a few years ago, those organizers were looking at suburban venues, as talks aimed at expanding and improving Cobo Center were languishing.
"The fact was that Cobo's shortfalls were eroding the auto shows relevancy and statue on the global automotive stage," said Larry Alexander, CEO of the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau."
But a deal was reached that will mean the extra space that exhibitors required.
"You're sitting in the midst of a five year transformation process to turn this facility into a world class convention center," said Alexander.
Most of the big changes will be finished in time for the 2013 show. That includes a new, more dramatic riverfront entrance, and a new atrium area, in what used to be Cobo Arena. The arena is closed for this years show, as the renovations are being made.
Cobo General Manager Tom Connors says most of the improvements are not yet visible to the public. But they are already saving money
"The first savings has been realized through efficiencies with the construction and improvements, the loading dock, the lighting, more accessible electrical supply," he said.
The 2012 North American International Auto Show begins on Monday with press previews. That's followed by industry previews on Wednesday and Thursday, and Friday night's black-tie charity preview. The first public day is Saturday, January 14th.
The floor has been slightly expanded for this year's show, with the new space being used for suppliers and an upgraded "Pure Michigan" exhibit.
On Thursday afternoon, a walk through Cobo Center showed most exhibits nearly finished, cars moving in, and carpet being installed.
Show Chairman Bill Perkins said crews would work all weekend to make sure Cobo was ready to go when more than 5 thousand journalists arrive Monday morning.
"If you just look around and see all the crates sitting around. Come Monday morning, you won't see any of that. It will be a finished product."
