Domestics step up early to support new format

DETROIT, June 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) today announced that it will feature two full days of auto manufacturer press conferences at the 2012 show. The announcement was made by NAIAS Chairman Bill Perkins at a meeting of auto show exhibitors in Detroit.

Press Preview

NAIAS 2012 Press Preview will be held on Monday, Jan. 9, and Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Detroit's Cobo Center. More than 5,000 media from 41 states and 60 countries attended the show's 2011 press preview, and even more are expected next January, says Perkins.

"We've been meeting with automakers all over the world since January, and are thrilled to announce that due to the increasing strength of the auto industry, and the ongoing confidence and support our manufacturer partners have in the NAIAS, it will return to a two-day press schedule format to accommodate dozens of worldwide and North American product unveilings."

Perkins adds that he was particularly gratified by the enthusiasm of the domestic manufacturers, which stepped up early to support the two-day format. He said Chrysler Group, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Company have all confirmed product announcements on both press days.

"NAIAS remains one of the most important motor events in the world, and our manufacturer partners know that we do everything possible to create an exciting, supportive venue that attracts more media than any other show in North America," says Perkins.

Perkins says the NAIAS appreciated the valuable input from journalists about the press conference format, and recognizes that the two-day schedule will make it easier for media to do their jobs in covering the news at the show.

Nissan Returns to NAIAS

NAIAS also announced that Nissan and Infiniti will both be returning to the NAIAS after a two-year absence from Detroit.

"We are grateful that NAIAS is, once again, an important part of Nissan's international auto show strategy," says Perkins.

Rohatynski-Harlow Named NAIAS PR Agency of Record

Also announced today, Rohatynski-Harlow Public Relations, a full-service Detroit-area PR agency, has been named agency of record for NAIAS effective May 1, 2011. Principals Joe Rohatynski and Marc Harlow, who have managed PR for the Detroit Auto Dealers Association since 2004, also previously managed NAIAS PR from 1998-2001. Media relations veteran Shand Spencer will remain with the NAIAS PR team.

"These guys know the auto show business inside and out, and we're glad to have them back on board with us," adds Perkins.

About the North American International Auto Show
Entering its 24th year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most - up close and in one place. One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.

SOURCE North American International Auto Show

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