Lights, Camera, Action!
The 2015 Chicago Auto Show is set to be the backdrop for a number of television programs. In a partnership that will last throughout the year, ABC7 Chicago is set to broadcast the official 2015 Chicago Auto Show special. The live show will air at 6 p.m. CST on Saturday, Feb. 14. In addition, ABC7 Chicago will utilize its daytime and news programming, including the popular Windy City Live, to cover the Chicago Auto Show.
“Broadcast media coverage plays a key role in the 95 percent awareness rate of our show,” said Colin Wickstrom, Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) chairman. “The CATA works tirelessly with local and national media on a year-round mission of driving customers to our new-car dealers. This association with ABC7 Chicago provides a great foundation for our broadcast efforts.”
“We are thrilled to partner with the Chicago Automobile Trade Association to bring the 2015 Chicago Auto Show home to ABC7,” said John Idler, president and general manager of ABC7. “CATA’s reputation for excellence, integrity and their commitment to Chicago through the generous support of local charities are core values we share. We look forward to a very long and mutually beneficial partnership that will enrich our steadfast commitment to the communities we both serve.”
WGN-TV also plans to produce a one-hour special featuring John Davis, host of the Motorweek television program.
“WGN has a 60-year history with the Chicago Auto Show, telecasting a show nearly every year since 1952,” said Larry Wert, president of Broadcasting Media, Tribune Broadcasting Company. “It is an honor for WGN-TV, Chicago’s Very Own, to be a partner of the CATA and home to the Chicago Auto Show.”
There are two planned broadcasts in Spanish as well. Telemundo Chicago, longtime sponsor of Hispanic day at the Chicago Auto Show, will produce a half-hour special set to air on the opening Saturday.
“Telemundo Chicago is proud to partner with the CATA in presenting the 107th edition of the Chicago Auto Show,” said Chris McDonnell, president and general manager Telemundo Chicago. “For more than 15 years, we have been committed to creating Emmy award winning shows highlighting the exposition’s attributes. 2015 will mark our 9th Annual Hispanic Day at the Auto Show, celebrating diversity and culture. Our partnership has proven to be successful and fruitful and we look forward to another great event.”
Finally, Univision Chicago has plans to grow its show coverage from last year. Univision is set to produce a half-hour auto show special in addition to originating two news broadcasts from the show floor.
“Univision Local Media Chicago is proud to partner with ABC7 for year-round efforts to support the Chicago Automobile Trade Association. We will be utilizing our entire portfolio of media assets to help connect Hispanic audiences with the local automotive industry,” said Doug Levy, senior vice president and general manager, Univision Local Media Chicago. “Our combined creativity and resources will help build awareness among a segment that is projected to spend $44 billion on new vehicles this year alone.”
“The Chicago Auto Trade Association and broadcast partners understand that the Chicago Auto Show is the engine that energizes vehicle sales at the start of the year and those increased sales result in more advertising and marketing revenue for the market all year long,” said Wickstrom. “We are so happy to be working with so many partners to bring the beauty and excitement of the Chicago Auto Show into as many homes as possible.”
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