The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Axalta Coating Systems Announced as 2016 NAIAS Charity Preview Presenting Sponsor


alta (select to view enlarged photo)

DETROIT, Dec. 14, 2015 -- The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced today that Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global supplier of coatings to the automotive industry, has signed on to be the Presenting Sponsor of the annual NAIAS Charity Preview. This event, recognized as the largest single-night fundraiser in the nation, will occur on Jan. 15, 2016 at Cobo Center in Detroit.

"The Charity Preview is truly a remarkable experience and we're thrilled to have Axalta involved as our Presenting Sponsor," said Paul Sabatini, 2016 NAIAS Chairman. "Axalta is world-renowned for its color expertise and we look forward to seeing what flare they add to our charity celebration."

Charity Preview is more than the elegant gowns, tuxedos and parties; it's about giving back and supporting children's charities in Southeast Michigan. Since 1976, the Charity Preview has raised more than $100 million for Southeastern Michigan children's charities — more than $43 million of which was raised in the last 10 years alone.

"It is an honor for Axalta to be a part of NAIAS's annual Charity Preview," said Steven Markevich, Axalta Coating Systems' Executive Vice President and President of Transportation Coatings and Greater China. "We take pride in being able to support such an exceptional, international event that provides so much to numerous local charities. As a trusted partner in helping automakers develop the appearance and character of their vehicle brands, the Axalta team looks forward to adding a little color to this black tie affair."

More than 13,000 people attended this 2015 NAIAS Charity Preview and helped to raise just over $5.3 million. Proceeds directly benefit a wide range of children's charities that are making a positive impact in southeastern Michigan, including:

  • Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
  • Boys Hope Girls Hope Detroit
  • Children's Center
  • Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation
  • Detroit PAL
  • Judson Center
  • March of Dimes Metro Detroit
  • DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan.

Through the purchase of a Charity Preview ticket, these charities are able to deliver the special programs and services to thousands of local Detroit children.

Now in its 28th 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. Administered by Executive Director Rod Alberts, the NAIAS is one of the largest media events in North America, and 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. For more information, visit naias.com.