BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield will deliver the keynote address at the Alabama Auto Show Industry Dinner on April 30 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex.
The dinner is meant to signify the important role auto retailing plays in the Birmingham area economy. An analysis by the Birmingham Auto Dealers Association pegs that impact at $2.5 billion in annual sales, which supports more than 3,200 jobs at new car and truck dealerships in Jefferson and Shelby counties. These dealerships generate $234 million in earnings for area residents each year, along with state and local tax revenues topping $80 million.
“Alabama auto dealers are responsible for more than $10 billion in total sales each year, accounting for around 16 percent of all retail sales in the state,” Secretary Canfield said. “In the Birmingham area, auto dealerships are a major contributor to the economic vitality of the community, providing jobs and tax revenues while also acting as a magnet for retail activity in the region.”
The Alabama Auto Show, which begins April 30 and runs through May 3 at the BJCC, provides dealers and automakers an opportunity to show off their vehicles and products. This year, all of Alabama’s four global automakers — Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Hyundai and Toyota — will be represented at the event.
The auto show has been a favorite Birmingham attraction for several decades. This year, more than 400 vehicles from manufacturers all over the world will be on display over two levels of the BJCC. In addition, 15 Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota vehicles will be available for ride and drive opportunities.
“The ultimate purpose of the Alabama Auto Show is to raise funds for children’s charities in our communities,” said Jennifer Whisenant, executive director of the Birmingham Automobile Dealers Association. “This year’s show is shaping up to be one of the strongest we’ve had in quite a while and is the best place to check out the newest model vehicles with no sales pressure.”
Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-11, with free admission for kids 5 and under. Tickets are available online here.
The Alabama Auto Show Industry Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. in the BJCC East Ballroom B. Shelby County Commissioner Mike Vest will sing the National Anthem, and comedian Henry Cho will provide entertainment.
Individual seats can be purchased for $100, while tables seating 10 are $1,000. For more details, email info@bhamauto.org.
