Philadelphia Auto Show Reports Strong Attendance for Opening Weekend

E. Norriton, Pa., January 31, 2011 – The Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia announces a 28.4% increase in opening weekend attendance during its 2011 Philadelphia Auto Show when compared to its 2010 event.  The show saw 65,984 attendees over the weekend, which marks the third largest opening weekend in the event’s 109-year history.

“These strong numbers echo what we have been saying for a few weeks now—the buzz in the automotive industry is getting louder.  This is an important show for many reasons. We are approaching a turning point. Optimism is returning and momentum is building.  We hope these numbers are reflective of what we’ll experience in 2011,” said Dominic M. Conicelli, chairman of the 2011 Philadelphia Auto Show and president of Conicelli Autoplex.

As one of the nation’s biggest auto shows, the Philadelphia Auto Show has a proven track record of influence on consumers and a notable economic impact. In 2010, nearly 90 percent of attendees in the market for a new vehicle reported that visiting the Auto Show influenced their next purchasing decision, according to exit surveys. Furthermore, last year area dealers employed 35,360 employees, had sales of $20.2 billion and paid $1.13 billion in taxes on a state and local level.

“Although it’s only been two days, the historic increase over last year’s figures is encouraging,” added Kevin Mazzucola, executive director of the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia. “This city loves its Auto Show and the numbers couldn’t express that any better.”

About the Philadelphia Auto Show

The 2011 Philadelphia Auto Show, produced and owned by the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia, rolls into the Pennsylvania Convention Center January 29 – February 6. This year's event will have hundreds of vehicles from a variety of worldwide manufacturers. Highlights include an array of concept, classic, luxury, pre-production and exotic models.  Ticket prices range from $6.00 - $12.00. For more information, visit www.phillyautoshow.com.