Wednesday Aug 16, 2006

The British International Motor Show made a triumphant return to London last month, when the show was held in the capital for the first time in 30 years.
411,070 visitors flocked to ExCeL London - that represents a 24% increase, compared to the last show held at the NEC in 2004.

In addition the show also witnessed:

• 12 Global Premieres
  
• 17 UK & European Launches
  
• 600 Cars
  
• 60 Car Brands
  
• 9 Live Music Concerts
  
• 45 Performances of thrilling Motor Theatre Action

Plus celebrity appearances including - Jodie Kidd, Simon Cowell, Jools Holland, Paul Robinson, Michelle Collins, Vernon Kay, Ainsley Harriot, Daley Thompson, Nigel Mansell and Michael Vaughan.

Commenting on the success of the show, Christopher Macgowan, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said, "The decision to move The British International Motor Show to London was a massive step for the industry. The aim was to put our show back where it belonged on the international map and I am delighted that this decision has been totally vindicated. We very much look forward to working with IMIE and ExCeL London to build on this success story when we return the venue in 2008."

Rob Mackenzie, director of show organiser IMIE, said, "In the final week of the show we had unprecedented weekday attendances. I can't think of any other public show where weekdays have exceeded the weekends - or got remotely near. But during the last week, day after day, we saw crowds grow. It's hugely encouraging for us and for the exhibitors who have shown faith in this magnificent show."

Commenting on the success of the Show Kevin Murphy, Deputy CEO & MD Exhibitions, ExCeL London said, "We were absolutely delighted with the first Motor Show at ExCeL London. It delivered exactly what was promised - not only were the cars the stars, but the interactive features, Dock Rock, creative use of our 100acre campus and the numerous global car launches offered something for everyone. The feedback has been fantastic from all that were involved - the manufacturers had a very successful show and the visitors had a great day out. The aim of changing the location and format of the show to revitalise it, create excitement and bring it back to life have certainly worked and hopefully we can now look forward to the British International Motor Show being back on the world stage again."

Exhibitor Feedback:
Motor Show A 'Huge Success' for Citroën
Citroën have reported that the British International Motor Show has proved to be a huge success for them with positive enquiries and requests for test drives coming in far above expectations and expected targets.
Director of Communications, Marc Raven said: "We are extremely pleased how London has embraced the Motor Show. The Citroën stand has been extremely busy throughout with members of the public eager to learn more about the entire range. The number and quality of enquiries has been outstanding, far exceeding our internal targets."
Citroën were so inundated with people wanting to test drive their new C6 flagship that they had to add an extra car to the ExCeL London based fleet on the second day of the show.

Land Rover Freelander Draws the Crowds

Launched to the world at ExCeL London, Land Rover's new Freelander 2 emerged as one of the stars of the show. The Solihull-based company says visitors flocked to their stand to get their first views of the new compact 4x4.
Andy Griffths, Land Rover's UK marketing director, said, "We've been delighted with the level of interest shown in the new Freelander 2. Not only did visitors make a bee-line for our stand to see the car in the metal for the first time but we had thousands of people asking for more details about it. We're confident many of those enquiries will turn into sales. It's been a really successful show for us."

Great Show for Cadillac and Corvette

The show has been a great success for two iconic brands from the USA, Cadillac and Corvette, with their entire product range showcased in the UK for the first time.

"The interest in Cadillacs and Corvettes has been overwhelming not just from car enthusiasts but also from many potential buyers, " said Andrew Andersz, PR Manager UK. "We have booked more than 600 test drives and will be sending out additional information to more than 3,000 people who came to see the cars."

Motor Show Exceeds Volvo Targets

For Volvo, the British International Motor Show, has exceeded all expectations with sales enquiries, test drive requests and off-road passenger rides well ahead of figures achieved at the last UK show at Birmingham's NEC in 2004.
One week into the show, Volvo had already achieved its targets for sales enquiries and test drive requests, while the Adventure Land outdoor attraction proved particularly popular with over 5,200 people going for a ride to experience the 4x4 abilities of the refreshed XC90.
"There was a great atmosphere at the show and everyone seemed to like its manageable size, convenient relaxation areas, value and the opportunity for outdoor and evening entertainment," commented Volvo's PR and Events Director, John Lefley. "With the all-new C70 and S80, plus the cool C30 Design Concept, on our stand, we expected a high level of interest from show visitors but this has exceeded our expectations, given the new time and venue," he continued.

Daihatsu Praises British International Motor Show

Compact car specialist, Daihatsu, has declared the new British International Motor Show a resounding success.
Not only does the West Bromwich-based company believe that ExCeL London is a big improvement on the NEC but enjoyed healthy interest in its entire range of models.
Operations Director, Paul Hegarty, said: "We are delighted with the footfall on our stand and sold two Copen sports cars within hours of opening. We feel the show organisers have got things just right as far as generating the right atmosphere for the public and past experience tells us that Copen always attracts massive attention at such events. Combined with our new Terios SUV having its public airing, we already have good vibes that this event will generate good business for Daihatsu."

The Motor Show will return to ExCeL London in 2008 brining an even bigger and better motoring extravaganza to the capital.